U.S. patent application number 14/255286 was filed with the patent office on 2015-10-22 for brush device for applying a tanning formulation.
This patent application is currently assigned to Spray di Sole, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Spray di Sole, LLC. Invention is credited to Svetlana Feller, Lane Peskin.
Application Number | 20150296965 14/255286 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 54320862 |
Filed Date | 2015-10-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150296965 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Peskin; Lane ; et
al. |
October 22, 2015 |
Brush Device For Applying A Tanning Formulation
Abstract
A brush device is disclosed having specific dimensions
especially suited for use in applying a tanning formulation to the
face and body of an individual. The dimensions are such that the
time required to apply the formulation using the brush device is
decreased compared to conventional brush devices while at the same
time, undesirable streaking and uneven application are avoided. A
handle structure of the brush device is disclosed which is
configured to house the brush and protect the bristles after
usage.
Inventors: |
Peskin; Lane; (Calabasas,
CA) ; Feller; Svetlana; (Studio City, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Spray di Sole, LLC |
Studio City |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Spray di Sole, LLC
Studio City
CA
|
Family ID: |
54320862 |
Appl. No.: |
14/255286 |
Filed: |
April 17, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
15/171 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A46B 9/021 20130101;
A46B 2200/1046 20130101; A46B 15/0095 20130101; A46B 17/04
20130101 |
International
Class: |
A46B 5/00 20060101
A46B005/00 |
Claims
1. A brush device for applying a tanning formulation to the face
and body of an individual, comprising: an elongate cylindrical
handle structure having a longitudinal axis, a first longitudinal
end and a second longitudinal end, said handle structure having a
length in the range of between about 41/4 inches and 51/4 inches
and a diameter in the range of between about 11/4 inches and 2
inches; and a plurality of bristles having portions extending from
said second end of said handle structure forming a brush, said
brush having circular cross-sections in respective planes
transverse to said longitudinal axis of said handle structure, said
transverse cross-section of said brush at said second end of said
handle structure having a diameter in the range of between about
11/4 inches and 2 inches, and wherein a diameter of a largest
transverse cross-section of said brush is in the range of between
about 21/4 inches and 23/4 inches.
2. A brush device as recited in claim 1 wherein the height of the
brush is in the range of between about 15/8 inches and 21/8
inches.
3. A brush device as recited in claim 2 wherein said brush has a
frusto-conical shape from a base to said largest transverse
cross-section and a spherical section shape from said largest
transverse cross-section to a top of said brush.
4. A brush device as recited in claim 1 wherein the length of said
handle structure is about 43/4 inches, said diameter of said handle
structure is about 11/2 inches, said diameter of said largest
transverse cross-section is about 21/2 inches and the height of
said brush is about 17/8 inches.
5. A brush device as recited in claim 1 wherein said handle
structure comprises: an outer cylindrical case having a closed end
constituting said first longitudinal end of said handle structure
and an open end; an inner cylindrical brush holder situated
coaxially within said outer cylindrical case and fixed thereto; an
intermediate cylindrical case situated coaxially between said outer
cylindrical-case and said inner cylindrical brush holder, said
intermediate cylindrical case having an open end constituting said
second longitudinal end of said handle structure; said outer
cylindrical case, inner cylindrical brush holder and intermediate
cylindrical case configured such that said intermediate cylindrical
case in slidable between a first retracted position in which said
open end thereof is situated outside of said outer cylindrical case
a first distance form said open end of said outer case and
constitutes said second longitudinal end of said handle structure,
and a second extended position in which said open end thereof is
situated outside of said outer cylindrical case a second distance
from said open end of said outer case which is greater than said
first distance, and wherein said rush is housed within said
intermediate case when said intermediate case is in said second
extended position. A brush device as recited in claim 6 wherein
said the length of said cylindrical cover is in the range of
between about 37/8 inches and 41/8 inches.
6. A brush device as recited in claim 5 further comprising a
cylindrical cover having a first closed end and a second open end,
said second open end configured to be connected to said open end of
said intermediate cylindrical case when said intermediate
cylindrical case is in said second extended position, and wherein
said rush is housed within said cylindrical cover when said
intermediate cylindrical case is moved to said first retracted
position.
7. A brush device as recited in claim 6 wherein said the length of
said cylindrical cover is in the range of between about 37/8 inches
and 41/8 inches.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates generally to the application of
sunless tanning formulations to the face and body of an individual
and, more particularly, to a brush device especially designed for
such applications.
[0002] The popularity of sunless tanning has risen since the 1960s
after exposure to the sun and other tanning methods, such as
tanning beds, were linked to the incidence of skin cancer. Sunless
tanning and bronzing formulations are safer and faster than, and
can achieve a tan at least comparable to that obtained by, exposure
of the face and body of an individual to the sun.
[0003] Sunless tanning formulations generally fall into two
categories, namely, sunless tanners that actually darken the skin
and then fade as dead skin cells slough off in the normal course
(usually within 3-7 days), and bronzers that wash off like regular
makeup. Most sunless tanners contain dihydroxyacetone, a sugar that
interacts with proteins in the epidermis, the outermost layer of
the skin, to produce a darker skin color. Sunless tanners come in
various forms. A gel is particularly advantageous form for sunless
tanning formulations since gels generally dry faster and are easier
to apply than other forms, such as spray tanners which are more
difficult to use, and lotions which sometimes leave a sticky feel.
Bronzers darken the skin on a temporary basis. Once applied to the
body and face of an individual, a tan is created that can be washed
off with soap and water. Bronzers also come in several forms,
including powders, liquids and gels.
[0004] With the development of sun tanning formulations in liquid,
powder and gel form, issues have arisen with the use of
conventional devices for applying the formulations to the skin.
Conventional techniques, such as conventional brushes and mitts,
generally require a long time for application of the formulation to
large areas of the body. Certain areas of the body, such as areas
of the back and legs, often cannot be easily reached, if at all.
Leverage to apply appropriate pressure of brushes often cannot be
obtained using conventional mitts and/or brushes. For these
reasons, the tan produced by these techniques and other
conventional methods, are often streaked and/or uneven.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to
provide a new and improved device for applying sunless tanning
formulations to the body and face of an individual.
[0006] Another object of the present invention is to provide a new
and improved brush device for applying sunless tanning formulations
to the body and face of an individual.
[0007] Still another object of the present invention is to provide
an improved brush device for applying sunless tanning formulations
to the body and face of an individual that is faster than
conventional techniques.
[0008] A further object of the present invention is to provide a
new and improved brush device for applying sunless tanning
formulations to the body and face of an individual which results in
a uniform, streak-free tan.
[0009] A still further object of the present invention is to
provide a brush device satisfying all of the above objects and
which is convertible to a closed configuration after use in which
the brush of the device is protected and which is compact.
[0010] It has been found that a brush device having a certain
configuration and certain specific dimensions in accordance with
the invention satisfies all of the above-stated objects. Briefly,
in accordance with the present invention, these and other objects
are attained by providing a brush device comprising an elongate
cylindrical handle structure having a length in the range of
between about 41/4 inches and 51/4 inches and a diameter in the
range of between 11/4 inches and 2 inches, and a brush formed by a
plurality of bristles that extend from an end of the handle
structure. The brush has circular transverse cross-sections of
varying size, the largest circular transverse cross-section having
a diameter of between 21/4 inches and 23/4 inches. A brush device
having such a construction can be used to apply a sunless tanning
formulation in gel, liquid or powder form more quickly than other
conventional techniques and at the same time provide a streak-free
and uniform tan. The construction also allows an individual to
reach all areas of his or her body and provides the user with good
leverage during the application of the formulation to hard-to-reach
areas.
[0011] According to another aspect of the invention, the handle
structure is configured to conveniently house and protect the brush
after use in a compact profile. In particular, the handle structure
includes an outer cylindrical case, an inner cylindrical brush
holder situated within the outer case, and an intermediate
cylindrical case situated between the outer case and the inner
brush holder which is slidable between a retracted position in
which the brush is exposed, and an extended position in which the
brush is covered by the intermediate cylindrical case. A
cylindrical cover is connectable to the intermediate cylindrical
case while in its extended position, whereupon the intermediate
cylindrical case can be moved to its retracted position, whereupon
the brush becomes covered within the cylindrical cover providing a
compact package while protecting the brush.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] A more complete appreciation of the present invention and
many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily understood
by reference to the following detailed description when considered
in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:
[0013] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a brush device in accordance
with the invention;
[0014] FIG. 2A is a front elevation of the brush and an upper
portion of the intermediate cylindrical case of the brush device of
FIG. 1;
[0015] FIG. 2B is a section view taken along line B-B of FIG.
2A;
[0016] FIG. 3 is a longitudinal section view of the brush device of
FIG. 1;
[0017] FIG. 4 is a longitudinal section view of the brush device of
FIG. 1 in a first stage of being closed after use;
[0018] FIG. 5 is a longitudinal section view of the brush device of
FIG. 1 including a cover in a second stage of being closed after
use; and
[0019] FIG. 6 is a longitudinal section view of the brush device of
FIG. 1 in its closed configuration.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0020] Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference
characters designate identical or corresponding parts throughout
the several views, and more particularly to FIGS. 1 and 2, a brush
device 10 in accordance with the invention is illustrated in an
open configuration ready for use. The brush device 10 includes an
elongate cylindrical handle structure, generally designated 12,
having a longitudinal axis 11 (FIG. 2A) and a brush 14 formed of a
plurality of bristles 16. The elongate cylindrical handle structure
12 has a first closed longitudinal end 18 and a second open
longitudinal end 20.
[0021] The length 22 of the handle structure is in the range of
between about 41/4 inches and 51/4 inches, most preferably about
43/4 inches. The diameter 24 of the cylindrical handle structure is
in the range of between about 11/4 inches and 2 inches, preferably
about 11/2 inches.
[0022] Referring to FIG. 2 brush 14 extends from the second open
and 20 of the handle structure 12 has a lower part 14a having a
frusto-conical shape and an upper part 14b having a substantially
spherical section shape. Cross-sections of brush 14 have circular
shapes in respective planes transverse to the longitudinal axis 11
of the handle structure 12. The transverse cross-section of brush
14 at the second open end 20 of the handle structure has a diameter
26 in the range of between about 11/4 and 2 inches, preferably
about 11/2 inches. The transverse cross-section of brush 14 at its
widest part, i.e., at the major base of the frusto-conical part 14b
(FIG. 2B) has a diameter 28 in the range of between about 21/4
inches and 23/4 inches, preferably about 21/2 inches. The height 30
of brush 14 measured from the open end 20 of the handle structure
12, is in the range of between about 15/8 inches and 21/8 inches,
preferably about 17/8 inches. The length 32 of the frusto-conical
edge of the lower frusto-conical part 14b of brush 14, measured
from the open end 20 of the handle structure 12, the range of
between about 11/4 inches and 13/4 inches, preferably about 11/2
inches.
[0023] It has been found that a brush device having a combination
of certain ones, or all, of the characteristics described above, in
addition to reducing the time required to apply sunless tanning
formulations in liquid, gel and/or powder form to the face and
body, eliminates or at least reduces streaking and promotes
uniformity of application in hard-to-reach areas as a result of the
increased leverage provided by the brush device. Larger or smaller
brushes connected to narrower, wider, longer and/or shorter handle
structures result in increased streaking due to insufficient or
excess pressure of the brush on the skin and insufficient
leverage.
[0024] Because of the large size of the brush of a brush device in
accordance with the invention, it is desirable to provide a
construction which will protect the bristles from damage after the
brush is used. At the same time, it is desirable to provide a
compact packaging for the brush device, not only in view of the
large size of the brush, but also in view of the large size of the
handle structure. To these ends, referring to FIGS. 3-6, the handle
structure of a brush device 10 in accordance with the invention
includes a plurality of elements formed of appropriate material,
such as aluminum, or plastic, which enables the brush device to be
converted to a closed configuration having approximately the same
overall height as the brush device in its open configuration with
the brush gathered and housed in a protective cap.
[0025] The handle structure 12 includes an outer cylindrical case
34 having a closed end constituting the first closed end 18 of the
handle structure 12 and an open end 36, an inner cylindrical brush
holder 38 situated coaxially within the outer cylindrical case 34
having a closed end 40 fixed, such as by adhesive, to the inner
surface of the closed end 18 of the outer cylindrical case 34 so as
to fix the inner cylindrical brush holder 38 within the outer
cylindrical case 34, and an open-ended intermediate cylindrical
case 42 situated coaxially and slidably between the outer
cylindrical case 34 and the inner cylindrical brush holder 38. As
described below, one of the open ends of the intermediate
cylindrical case is situated outside of the outer cylindrical case
and constitutes the second open end 20 of handle structure 12.
[0026] A circumferentially extending shoulder 44 projects outwardly
from the intermediate cylindrical case 42 at a location close to
but spaced from the open end 20 of the intermediate cylindrical
case 42 such that when the intermediate cylindrical case 42 is
moved as far as possible into the outer cylindrical case 34 (as
seen in FIG. 3), the shoulder 44 engages the open end 36 of the
outer cylindrical case 34 preventing further inward movement of the
intermediate cylindrical case 42 into the outer cylindrical case
34. As noted above, in this position, the open end of the
intermediate cylindrical case 42 proximate to shoulder 44 is
situated outside of the outer cylindrical case 34 and constitutes
the second open end 20 of the handle structure 12.
[0027] The ends of the bristles 16 of brush 14 are affixed by epoxy
or the like in a brush-holding cup 46 which is fixed at the upper
end of the inner cylindrical brush holder 38 within the outer
cylindrical case 34. The bristles 16 extend through the open end 20
of the handle structure constituted by the open end of the
intermediate cylindrical case 42 and have a length and
configuration such as to form brush 14 with the configuration and
dimensions described above.
[0028] The open end 20 of handle structure 12 constituted by the
open end of the intermediate case 42 projects a distance 48 of
about 3/4 inch from the open end 36 of the outer case 34. The
length 50 of the intermediate case 42 is about 37/8 inches. The
length 52 of the inner brush holder 38 is about 31/4 inches and the
open end 39 of the brush holder 38 at which the brush-holding cup
46 is fixed is situated within the outer case 34 and spaced a
distance 54 of about 3/4 inch from the open end 36 of the outer
case 34.
[0029] The handle structure 12 described above is constructed to
conveniently house and protect the brush after use in a compact
profile. Referring to FIG. 4 in conjunction with FIG. 3, in a first
stage of closing the brush device 10 after it has been used to
apply a tanning formulation, the intermediate cylindrical case 42
is slid outwardly from within the outer cylindrical case 34 until
an inwardly extending circumferential shoulder 52 formed at the
inner end of the intermediate cylindrical case 42 engages an
outwardly extending circumferential shoulder 54 formed at the top
end of the inner cylindrical brush holder 38. The engagement of
shoulders 52, 54 limits the extent of sliding movement of the
intermediate cylindrical case 42 out of the outer cylindrical case
34. The extent of movement of the intermediate cylindrical case 42
is sufficient such that the bristles 16 of brush 14 are gathered
together by the intermediate case 42 as it moves outwardly and
within the interior of the intermediate cylindrical case 42. The
bottom edge of cover 56 abuts the shoulder 44 of the intermediate
cylindrical case.
[0030] Referring to FIG. 5, in the next stage of closing the brush
device 10, with the intermediate cylindrical case 42 in its outer
position, a cylindrical cover 56 is connected to the open end 20 of
the intermediate cylindrical case 42. Small protrusions are formed
on the upper end of the intermediate case to provide a friction fit
of the cover 56 onto the intermediate case 42. The bottom edge of
cover 56 abuts the shoulder 44 of the intermediate cylindrical
case.
[0031] Referring to FIG. 6, in the final stage of closing the brush
device 10, the intermediate cylindrical case 42 is slid back into
the outer cylindrical case 34 until the shoulder 44 engages the
open end 36 of the outer cylindrical case 34 but not so long as to
be cumbersome. The length 58 of the cylindrical cover 56 is
sufficient to provide a space for receiving and housing the
gathered brush 14 in its interior as the intermediate cylindrical
case 42 slides into the outer cylindrical case 34. The length of
the cylindrical cover is in the range of between about 37/8 inches
and 41/8 inches, preferably about 4 inches. In this manner, the
brush device is closed in a compact package having about the same
length as the brush device in the open configuration with the
bristles 16 of brush 14 being protected.
[0032] The outer cylindrical case 34, inner cylindrical brush
holder 38 and intermediate cylindrical case 42 are thus configured
such that the intermediate cylindrical case 42 is slidable between
a first retracted position (FIG. 3) in which the open end 20
thereof is situated outside of the outer cylindrical case a first
distance from the open end of the outer case and constitutes the
second longitudinal end of the handle structure, and a second
extended position (FIG. 4) in which the open end 20 thereof is
situated outside of the outer cylindrical case a second distance
from said open end of said outer case which is greater than the
first distance. The brush 14 is housed within the intermediate case
42 when the intermediate case 42 is in said second extended
position (FIG. 4). The cylindrical cover 56 has a first closed end
and a second open end, the second open end being configured to be
connected to the open end 20 of said intermediate cylindrical case
42 when the intermediate cylindrical case is in the second extended
position (FIG. 5). The brush 14 becomes housed within the
cylindrical cover 56 when the intermediate cylindrical case 42 is
moved to the first retracted position (FIG. 6).
[0033] Obviously, numerous modifications and variations of the
embodiment of the brush device are possible in the light of the
above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that within the
scope of the claims appended hereto, the invention may be practiced
otherwise than as specifically disclosed herein.
* * * * *