U.S. patent application number 14/536254 was filed with the patent office on 2016-05-12 for cosmetic implement with movable applicator.
The applicant listed for this patent is HCT Group Holdings Limited. Invention is credited to Cindy Sean Yuei Lim, Kamaal Washington, Michelle Wong.
Application Number | 20160128457 14/536254 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55911222 |
Filed Date | 2016-05-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160128457 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lim; Cindy Sean Yuei ; et
al. |
May 12, 2016 |
COSMETIC IMPLEMENT WITH MOVABLE APPLICATOR
Abstract
Implements may include a movable applicator to manipulate an
application surface to different angles for a more ergonomic
application of cosmetics. An example cosmetic implement comprises a
handle coupled to an applicator via a swivel connector. In some
examples, when the movable ferrule is in a first position the
applicator may be used in a traditional manner; however, when the
ferrule is placed in a second position the applicator may be tilted
at an angle, for a more efficient application of product to certain
areas of the face, neck, head, or body of a person.
Inventors: |
Lim; Cindy Sean Yuei; (Santa
Monica, CA) ; Wong; Michelle; (Alhambra, CA) ;
Washington; Kamaal; (Los Angeles, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
HCT Group Holdings Limited |
Santa Monica |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
55911222 |
Appl. No.: |
14/536254 |
Filed: |
November 7, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
401/118 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A46B 9/021 20130101;
A46B 5/0033 20130101; A46B 7/04 20130101; A46B 5/0087 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A46B 5/00 20060101
A46B005/00; A46B 7/04 20060101 A46B007/04; A45D 40/26 20060101
A45D040/26 |
Claims
1. A brush comprising: a handle having a first end and a second
end; a swivel connector having a ball and shaft, wherein the ball
is seated in the first end of the handle and the shaft extends away
from the first end of the handle; a ferrule coupled to the first
end of the handle, wherein the ferrule secures the swivel connector
within the first end of the handle and the shaft protrudes through
a cutout in the ferrule; and an applicator coupled to the shaft,
the applicator being movable within the confines of the cutout in
the ferrule.
2. The brush as claim 1 recites, further comprising a friction
material on the ball of the swivel connector, the friction material
configured to increase friction between the ball and the
ferrule.
3. The brush as claim 2 recites, wherein the friction material
comprises at least one of: a rubber; a polyurethane; a silicone; a
polypropelene; a polyethylene; or a nylon.
4. The brush as claim 1 recites, wherein the applicator further
comprises an application surface, the application surface
comprising a plurality of bristles configured in at least one of: a
fan shape; a rectangular shape; a triangular shape; or a dome
shape.
5. The brush as claim 1 recites, wherein the applicator is further
movable in a clockwise or counterclockwise rotation about its
axis.
6. The brush as claim 1 recites, wherein the applicator further
comprises an application surface, the application surface
comprising a sponge.
7. The brush as claim 1 recites, wherein the applicator is
removable.
8. The brush as claim 1 recites, wherein the ferrule is
substantially flat at the first end of the handle, and the cutout
in the ferrule further comprises a detent, the detent being
perpendicular to the substantially flat ferrule and sized to hold
the shaft of the swivel connector.
9. A cosmetic implement comprising: a handle; a ferrule coupled to
the handle, the ferrule comprising a cutout with a first
substantially circular section on a top side of the ferrule and a
second substantially circular section on a lateral side of the
ferrule, the first and second substantially circular sections being
connected; a swivel connector, the swivel connector housed inside
the ferrule and the swivel connector comprising: a ball configured
to move within the ferrule; and a shaft coupled to the ball, the
shaft being distal to the handle; and an applicator coupled to the
shaft of the swivel connector, the applicator comprising an
application surface distal to the handle, wherein the applicator is
movable: about a plane defined by the first substantially circular
section of the cutout; and into a position substantially
perpendicular to the handle defined by the second substantially
circular section of the cutout;
10. The cosmetic implement as claim 9 recites, further comprising a
snap-fit connector between the first substantially circular section
and the second substantially circular section, the snap-fit
connector configured to secure the shaft at a 90 degree angle from
the handle.
11. The cosmetic implement as claim 9 recites, further comprising a
friction material on the ball of the swivel connector, the friction
material configured to increase friction between the ball and the
ferrule and comprising at least one of: a rubber; a polyurethane; a
silicone; a polypropelene; a polyethylene; or a nylon.
12. The cosmetic implement as claim 9 recites, wherein the
application surface is comprised of a plurality of bristles, the
plurality of bristles configured in at least one of: a fan shape; a
rectangular shape; a triangular shape; or a dome shape.
13. The brush as claim 9 recites, wherein the applicator is further
movable in a clockwise or counterclockwise rotation about its
axis.
14. The cosmetic implement as claim 9 recites, the applicator being
removable and replaceable.
15. A cosmetic implement comprising: a handle; a ferrule coupled to
the handle, the ferrule comprising a multi-pronged cutout with at
least a first track having a first end and a second end, a second
track having a first end and a second end, and a third track having
a first end and a second, each of the first, second, and third
tracks sharing a first end at a center of the ferrule; a swivel
connector, the swivel connector housed inside the ferrule and the
swivel connector comprising: a ball configured to move within the
ferrule; and a shaft coupled to the ball, the shaft being distal to
the handle; and an applicator coupled to the shaft of the swivel
connector, the applicator comprising an application surface distal
to the handle, wherein the applicator is movable between: a first
position at the first end of the first, second, and third tracks; a
second position at the second end of the first track; a third
position at the second end of the second track; and a fourth
position at the second end of the third track, wherein applicator
is oriented at different angles relative to the handle at each of
the first, second, third, and fourth positions.
16. The cosmetic implement as claim 15 recites, further comprising:
a first detent at the second end of the first track; a second
detent at the second end of the second track; and a third detent at
the second end of the third track, wherein the first, second and
third detents are configured to secure the shaft in the first,
second, and third positions respectively.
17. The cosmetic implement as claim 15 recites, further comprising
a friction material on the ball of the swivel connector, the
friction material configured to increase friction between the ball
and the ferrule.
18. The brush as claim 15 recites, wherein the applicator is
further movable in a clockwise or counterclockwise rotation about
its axis.
19. The cosmetic implement as claim 15 recites, wherein the
application surface is comprised of a plurality of bristles, the
plurality of bristles configured in at least one of: a fan shape; a
rectangular shape; a triangular shape; or a dome shape.
20. The cosmetic implement as claim 15 recites, wherein the
applicator is removable and replaceable.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] Multiple cosmetic implements exist for applying cosmetic,
medicinal, or other product to an individual's face, head, or body.
Different aspects and features of the face, head, and body require
application at different angles. For example, holding an applicator
shaft perpendicular to a certain area may be useful for applying
cosmetic to a substantially flat area. In other examples, it may be
more beneficial to have an applicator at an angle relative to the
surface for more precise application. Additionally, different
applications may require different application surfaces, each
capable of being applied at different angles. However, carrying
multiple implements may be inconvenient, particularly when
traveling, due to the amount of space taken up by the multiple
implements.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0002] The detailed description is set forth with reference to the
accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a
reference number identifies the figure in which the reference
number first appears. The use of the same reference numbers in
different figures indicates similar or identical items.
[0003] FIGS. 1A and 1B depict a front view and a side view,
respectively, of an illustrative example of a cosmetic implement
with an applicator movable between multiple positions.
[0004] FIGS. 2A and 2B depict perspective views of the cosmetic
implement with an applicator shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the
applicator movable between a first position shown in FIG. 2A and
the multiple positions shown in FIG. 2B.
[0005] FIG. 3 depicts a front view of the components of the
cosmetic implement shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2A and 2B.
[0006] FIG. 4 depicts a front view of the assembled components of
the cosmetic implement shown in FIGS. 1-3.
[0007] FIGS. 5A and 5B depict perspective views of an illustrative
example of a cosmetic implement with a ferrule which allows
movement between a first position shown in FIG. 5A and the multiple
positions including a pre-set position shown in FIG. 5B.
[0008] FIGS. 6A and 6B depict perspective views of an illustrative
example of a cosmetic implement with a ferrule which allows
movement between a first position shown in FIG. 6A and multiple
pre-set positions as shown in FIG. 6B. FIG. 6C depicts a top view
of the ferrule shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B.
[0009] FIG. 7 depicts an illustrative example of a cosmetic
implement with a removable applicator.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Overview
[0010] Existing cosmetic implements are generally limited to or
intended for a particular function when applying cosmetic products.
Thus, there remains a need for an improved cosmetic implement to
achieve multiple functions or applications at various angles and
with various application surfaces. This application describes
various cosmetic implements for applying one or more cosmetic
products (e.g., blush, foundation, eye shadow, eye liner, powder,
concealer, primer, etc.) to a surface such as a face, neck, head,
or body of a person.
[0011] In an implementation, the cosmetic implement may have a
movable applicator coupled to a handle which is free to move
through a 360-degree plane. In some implementations, the movable
applicator may be configured to move relative to the handle to
adjust the angle of the applicator without changing the handle
position, thereby improving the ergonomics of application. For
example, a user may require the horizontal application of an eye
liner, but may desire an application surface angled toward the face
at an acute angle relative to the applicator in order to facilitate
application of eye liner under the lower eye lashes. In such cases,
the movable applicator may be moved to an angled position, allowing
the applicator to be tilted at an angle away from the axis of the
handle. However, in other implementations, the user may require an
applicator aligned with the handle. In that case, the movable
applicator may be moved or otherwise manipulated to a position such
that the applicator is aligned with the handle. Additionally, in
some implementations, the applicator may be secured into a
plurality of positions at various angles between 0 degrees (i.e.,
aligned with the handle axis) and 150 degrees.
[0012] By allowing the user to manipulate a single cosmetic
implement to fulfill the multiple required applications of the user
(i.e., preferred angular applications), according to the
implementations described herein, the user only needs to own/carry
the single implement. This may be more convenient and
cost-effective to the user than existing implements.
[0013] As used throughout the disclosure, the terms "applicator"
and "movable applicator" are intended to have substantially similar
meanings. That is, "applicator," as used throughout this
disclosure, should be interpreted as any sort of removable or
non-removable applicator attached to a handle via a swivel
connector.
[0014] Following the "Overview," the disclosure continues with a
section entitled "Example Cosmetic Implements with Movable
Applicator," which describes non-limiting examples of cosmetic
implements with movable applicators. Lastly, the discussion ends
with a brief conclusion.
[0015] This brief overview, including section titles and
corresponding descriptions, is provided for the reader's
convenience and is not intended to limit the scope of the claims.
The features of the described cosmetic implements and corresponding
systems may be implemented in any number of forms. The example
cosmetic implements and corresponding systems described herein are
merely illustrative. The implementations described herein are not
mutually exclusive and aspects of the various implementations may
be combined to arrive at other implementations within the scope of
the claims. The features, functions, and advantages that have been
discussed above or will be discussed below are merely examples that
may, but need not necessarily, be achieved by cosmetic implements
or cosmetic implement systems according to one or more
implementations described herein. Further details of various
example implementations are set forth below with reference to the
following description and drawings.
Example Cosmetic Implements with Movable Applicator
[0016] The figures illustrate various example cosmetic implements,
where each cosmetic implement contains one of a plurality of
ferrule configurations, applicators, applicator angles, and/or
application surface characteristics.
[0017] FIGS. 1A and 1B depict a front view and a side view,
respectively, of an illustrative example of a cosmetic implement
100 with an applicator 102 movable between multiple positions
relative to a handle 104. As illustrated, the cosmetic implement
100 includes a movable applicator 102 coupled to a handle 104 via a
swivel connector with a ball and a shaft. The handle 104 may be
formed of one or more of a metal material (e.g., steel, stainless
steel, aluminum, titanium, alloys thereof, etc.), a plastic
material (e.g., acrylic, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride,
acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, etc.), a wood material, ceramic
material, graphite material, composite material (e.g., fiberglass,
carbon fiber, etc.), combinations of the preceding, or other
suitable material. A cross section of handle 104 may be circular,
elliptical, square, rectangular or any other suitable shape. The
handle 104 may have a gripping surface thereon (e.g. rubber grip,
textured surface treatment, soft touch paint, etc.).
[0018] The applicator 102 may house an application surface 106. In
various implementations, the application surface 106 may be a
collection or plurality of individual fibers or bristles. As
illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, application surface 106 is shown as
a group of bristles forming a brush applicator. In some
implementations, the brush applicator may be made of natural
bristles (e.g., sable hair, squirrel hair, goat hair, etc.),
synthetic bristles (e.g., plastic, silicone, latex, polyester or
composites thereof), metallic bristles, flocking or a composite
thereof. However, in other implementations, the application surface
106 may be a sponge applicator or the like. Additionally, in some
implementations, the application surface 106 may take on any number
of shapes. For example, the application surface 106 illustrated in
FIGS. 1A and 1B comprises a substantially rectangular shaped brush;
however, other suitable cross sectional shapes may be used (e.g.,
square, circular, ovular, rectangular, triangular, fan, etc.).
[0019] FIG. 1B depicts a side view of cosmetic implement 100. In
the illustrative example, the applicator 102 side view cross
sectional area is narrower than the front view. In other examples,
the applicator 102 side view cross sectional area may be the same
size or wider than the front view cross sectional area.
[0020] FIGS. 2A and 2B depict perspective views of the cosmetic
implement with an applicator shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the
applicator being movable between a first position (P.sub.1) shown
in FIG. 2A and the multiple positions (e.g., P.sub.2, P.sub.3,
P.sub.4) shown in FIG. 2B. As depicted, the movable applicator may
be moved between multiple positions, each position being deflected
at a particular angle from the axis of the handle 104.
[0021] Specifically, FIG. 2A illustrates the perspective view of
cosmetic implement 100, where the applicator 102 is in position
P.sub.1. FIG. 2B illustrates the perspective view of cosmetic
implement 100, where the applicator 102 is in positions P.sub.1,
P.sub.2, P.sub.3, and P.sub.4.
[0022] As described above with regard to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the
position of the movable applicator 102 determines the angle at
which the application surface 106 may contact the head, face, or
body. The movable applicator 102 may be connected to the handle via
a swivel connector 202. In some implementations, the swivel
connector may be made of metal, plastic, carbon fiber, or any other
suitable material. In various implementations, the swivel connector
202 may comprise a ball and a shaft. The ball of the swivel
connector may be housed in the handle 104, the first end being
proximal to the applicator, and/or in a ferrule 204, in a
ball-and-socket type configuration.
[0023] In various implementations, the ferrule 204 may be coupled
to the first end of the handle 104. The ferrule 204 may be made of
metal, plastic, carbon fiber, or any other suitable material. In
some implementations, the ferrule 204 may comprise a cutout. The
cutout depicted in FIG. 2A is substantially circular. However, in
other implementations, the cutout may be substantially
square-shaped, circular, triangular, star-shaped, or may comprise
multiple prongs. In various implementations, the ferrule 204 may
secure the swivel connector 202 in a housing in the first end of
the handle and/or in the ferrule 204. In some implementations, the
shaft of the swivel connector may protrude through the cutout. In
such implementations, the cutout may define a range of movement of
the swivel connector 202.
[0024] In various implementations, the swivel connector 202 may
allow the applicator 102 to move independent from and relative to
the handle. For example, the swivel connector 202 may permit the
applicator 102 to rotate through a plane defined by the cutout in
the ferrule 204, such as from P.sub.2 to P.sub.4.
[0025] In various implementations, the swivel connector 202 may be
coated and/or covered with a substance to increase surface
friction, thereby holding the applicator 102 in the desired
position absent the application of a certain amount of force. In
some implementations, the swivel connector 202 may be made of a
material with a coefficient of friction that permits movement about
the plane only if adequate pressure is applied.
[0026] As shown in the illustrative example at position P.sub.3,
the swivel connector 202 may also allow the applicator 102 to
rotate 360 degrees clockwise or counterclockwise about its own
axis. This may be desirable for precise application of cosmetic
product. For example, application of product in a straight line may
be more precise using a cross section in a particular orientation
which is long and narrow. Conversely, if a wide application of
product is required, rotating the applicator 90 degrees from the
previous example may be more desirable.
[0027] FIG. 3 depicts a front view of the components of the
cosmetic implement shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B and FIGS. 2A and
2B.
[0028] Cosmetic implement 100 may be comprised of a handle 104 with
a first end 302 proximale to the applicator 102 and a second end
304 distal to the applicator 102. The first end 302 of the handle
104 may be configured to house the swivel connector 202. The
housing in the first end 302 of the handle 104 may be a
ball-and-socket joint, or any other reasonable connection to allow
the swivel connector to move freely in all directions, and also
rotate clockwise or counterclockwise about its own axis.
[0029] In the illustrative example, swivel connector 202 comprises
a ball 306 and a link 308. In some implementations, the swivel
connector may be comprised of a sack of substantially fluid
material with a rigid piece protruding away from the handle 104. In
such implementations, the sack of substantially fluid material may
be sized to fit snugly within the first end 302 of the handle 104,
the fit allowing for free movement in all directions, and also
rotation about the axis of the swivel connector 202.
[0030] In various implementations, swivel connector 202 may be
secured in place with a ferrule 310. The ferrule 310 may be
composed of metal, glass, ceramic, plastic, composite, or the like.
In the illustrative example, ferrule 310 may be secured to the
first end 302 of handle 104 via a screw-type connection. In other
implementations, ferrule 310 may be secured via a snap
configuration. In still other implementations, the ferrule 310 may
be secured to the handle 104 with an adhesive (e.g., epoxy,
polyurethane, polyimide, cyanoacrylates, etc.).
[0031] In some implementations, a resistance or frictional material
may be placed between the swivel connector 202 and the ferrule 310.
The frictional material may prevent the swivel connector 202 from
moving in relation to the handle without a threshold force applied
by a user, for example. The frictional material may be connected to
or manufactured with either the swivel connector 202 or the ferrule
310. However, in some implementations, the frictional material may
also be a separate component of the cosmetic implement 100 placed
between the swivel connector 302 and the ferrule 310.
[0032] Example material of the frictional material may include
rubber, polyurethane, nylon, Teflon, silicone, polypropylene,
acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyethylene or the like.
Frictional material may be chosen to have a desired static and/or
kinetic frictional properties based on desired resistance to
movement (i.e., the desired threshold force that must be applied by
the user to move the ferrule relative to the handle.) In some
implementations, frictional material may also comprise a lubricant
to reduce wear of the swivel connector 202 and the ferrule 310.
[0033] Ferrule 310 comprises a cutout through which the link 308
may protrude when ferrule 310 is secured to the first end 302 of
the handle 104. In various implementations, the cutout is circular,
thereby allowing the link 308 to move in a circular pattern, or any
other direction within the circle. In some implementations the
cutout may be square, rectangular, triangular, star-shaped,
diamond-shaped, multi-pronged, or any other shape desired for the
movement track of the link 308. In various implementations, the
ferrule 310 may comprise a detent to allow the link 308 (and
consequently the attached applicator 102) to be seated in a
particular position and secured by a snap fit, a snug fit, or any
other reasonable method.
[0034] In the illustrative example, ferrule 310 has a substantially
flat top. In other examples, the ferrule 310 may have a dome-shaped
top, thereby permitting a potentially greater angle of deflection
of the link 308, and consequently the applicator 102.
[0035] The applicator 102 may be connected to handle 104 via link
308 of the swivel connector 202. In various examples, applicator
102 may be coupled to the link 308 by, for example, fusing, gluing,
anchoring, clamping, press-fit, stapling, or inserting the link 308
into at least a portion of the applicator 102. In yet other
implementations, the applicator 102 may be secured to the link 308
via a screw connection, a snap connection, or any other reasonable
method.
[0036] In various implementations, link 308 may be telescopic
thereby making applicator 102 extendable. In some implementations,
link 308 may be manually extendable (e.g. by applying force away
from the handle, twisting to extend, etc.). In other
implementations, link 308 may be extendable via an extension
mechanism (e.g. a spring-loaded mechanism activated by a
button).
[0037] Applicator 102 may be configured to house application
surface 106. Application surface 106 may be secured in the
applicator 102 by gluing, anchoring, clamping, press-fit, or any
other reasonable method for securing an application surface into a
housing. As described above in the discussion of FIGS. 1A and 1B,
application surface 106 may be comprised of a plurality of
bristles. In various implements, the application surface 106 may be
made of silicone, rubber, sponge, foam, latex, an elastomer,
plastic or a composite thereof.
[0038] In the illustrative example, application surface 106 has an
ovular cross sectional shape, with a substantially flat top
surface. In other implementations, application surface 106 may have
a rectangular, triangular, circular, semi-circular cross sectional
shape. Additionally, in some implementations, the application
surface 106 may have a top surface that is rounded or textured
(e.g., fan-shape, dome-shape, etc.).
[0039] FIG. 4 depicts a front view of the assembled components of
the cosmetic implement shown in FIGS. 1-3.
[0040] As described above with respect to FIG. 3, cosmetic
implement 100 may comprise a handle 104 with a first end 302
proximal to the applicator 102 and a second end 304 distal to the
applicator 102. In the illustrative example, the first end 302 is
configured to house the swivel connector 202. The housing in the
first end 302 may allow the swivel connector 202 to move freely in
all directions, including a rotation about its own axis.
[0041] In various implementations, the swivel connector 202
comprises a ball 306 and a link 308. In some implementations, the
ball 306 may be housed in the first end 302 of the handle 104, and
secured in place with a ferrule 310. In the illustrative example,
ferrule 310 is secured to the first end 302 of handle 104 via a
screw-type connection. In other implementations, ferrule 310 may be
secured via a snap configuration, and/or an adhesive.
[0042] In some implementations, a resistance or frictional material
may be placed between the swivel connector 202 and the ferrule 310.
The frictional material may prevent the swivel connector 202 from
moving in relation to the handle without a threshold force applied
by a user, for example. The frictional material may be connected to
or manufactured with either the swivel connector 202 or the ferrule
310. However, in some implementations, the frictional material may
also be a separate component of the cosmetic implement 100 placed
between the swivel connector 302 and the ferrule 310.
[0043] Ferrule 310 comprises a cutout through which the link 308
may protrude when ferrule 310 is secured to the first end 302 of
the handle 104. In the illustrative example, ferrule 310 has a
substantially flat top, thereby allowing the applicator to move
along a plane of motion as defined by the cutout. In other
implementations, the ferrule 310 may have a dome-shaped top,
thereby permitting a potentially greater angle of deflection of the
applicator 102.
[0044] The applicator 102 may be connected to handle 104 via link
308 of the swivel connector 202. In various implementations, link
308 may be telescopic, thereby making the applicator 102
extendable.
[0045] FIGS. 5A and 5B depict perspective views of an illustrative
example of a cosmetic implement with a ferrule which allows
movement between a first position shown in FIG. 5A and the multiple
positions including a pre-set position shown in FIG. 5B.
[0046] Cosmetic implement 500, similar to cosmetic implement 100,
comprises a handle 502 with a first end and a second end, and a
ferrule 504 coupled to the first end of handle 502. In some
implementations, the first end of handle 502 may house swivel
connector 506, and the ferrule 504 may secure the swivel connector
506 in place. In some implementations, the ferrule may house and
secure swivel connector 506.
[0047] As discussed above, in various implementations, there may be
a resistance or frictional material between the swivel connector
506 and the ferrule 504 and/or the handle 502. The frictional
material may prevent the swivel connector 506 from moving in
relation to the handle without a threshold force applied by a user,
for example. The resistance or frictional material may be connected
to or manufactured with either the swivel connector 506, the
ferrule 504, or the handle 502. However, in some implementations,
the frictional material may also be a separate component of the
cosmetic implement 500 placed between the swivel connector 506 and
the ferrule 504 and/or the handle 502.
[0048] Cosmetic implement 500 also includes an applicator 508 with
an application surface 510. In various implementations, the
applicator 508 may be coupled to the swivel connector 506 by
fusing, gluing, anchoring, clamping, press-fit, stapling, or
inserting the link into at least a portion of the applicator 508.
In some implementations, the applicator 508 may be coupled to the
swivel connector 506 via a screw connection, a snap connection, or
any other reasonable method of coupling the applicator and swivel
connector such that they move in concert.
[0049] In various implementations, the swivel connector allows the
applicator 508 to move about a plane, as defined by a cutout in the
ferrule 504. In the some implementations, the cutout in the ferrule
may be circular or substantially circular, thereby allowing the
applicator to track, via any path, to multiple positions. For
example, the applicator may move freely between a first position,
P.sub.1, in which the applicator is aligned with an axis 512 of the
handle 502, and multiple other positions at various angles to the
axis 512, such as P.sub.3, and P.sub.4, as shown in FIG. 5B. In
other implementations, the cutout may be substantially
square-shaped, fan-shaped, star-shaped, or may be comprised of
tracks, thereby limiting movement of the applicator within the
tracks (i.e., back and forth movement).
[0050] In some implementations, the cutout in the ferrule 504 may
include a detent 514. In such implementations, the detent 512 may
secure the swivel connector 506 into a particular position by, for
example, a snap fit. In some implementations the detent 514 may be
a clip to secure the applicator in a particular position. In some
implementations, range may be limited by "stops" or the extent of
grooves or tracks in the ferrule. In the illustrative example, the
detent 512 is a substantially circular hole in a lateral side of
the ferrule, the detent 512 being part of the cutout. In such
examples, the detent 512 may secure the swivel connector, and
consequently the applicator, at a 90 degree angle from the axis
512. In other implementations, as described below, the ferrule may
include a plurality of detents at various angles. The angled
detents may provide for a more precise, or ergonomically efficient
application of cosmetics to a certain area.
[0051] As illustrated in FIG. 5B, the applicator 508 may rotate 360
degrees clockwise or counterclockwise about an applicator axis 516,
as depicted at P.sub.2. The rotation of the applicator 508 about
axis 516 allows the single cosmetic implement to have a narrow
application surface in one orientation, and a wide application
surface in another orientation. For example, if a wide brush is
required, the longer dimension of applicator surface 510 may be
aligned vertically. Conversely, if a thin application is required,
applicator 508 may be rotated 90 degrees about applicator 516,
placing the longer dimension of applicator surface 510 in a
horizontal orientation.
[0052] In various other implementations, the width, shape, size,
diameter and/or other dimensional characteristic of the applicator
surface 510 may be determined by the position of applicator 508 of
cosmetic implement 500. The adjustments to applicator surface 510
by rotating applicator 508 may be made for increased precision or
ergonomic considerations.
[0053] FIGS. 6A and 6B depict perspective views of an illustrative
example of a cosmetic implement with a ferrule which allows
movement between a first position as shown in FIG. 6A and multiple
pre-set positions as shown in FIG. 6B. FIG. 6C depicts a top view
of the ferrule shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B.
[0054] FIGS. 6A and 6B depict a cosmetic implement 600 which may
comprise any of the features or combinations thereof discussed
above with reference to FIGS. 1A-5B. As illustrated in FIGS. 6A and
6B, cosmetic implement 600 further comprises a dome-shaped ferrule
602 with tracking pattern 604. In the illustrative example, the
ferrule 602 houses and secures swivel connector 606. In some
implementations, swivel connector 606 may be housed in a
ball-and-socket joint in ferrule 602 and/or handle 608.
[0055] As discussed above, a resistance or frictional material may
be placed between the swivel connector 606 and the ferrule 602. The
frictional material may be, for example, rubber, polyurethane,
nylon, Teflon, silicone, polypropylene, ABS, polyethylene or the
like. The frictional material may be chosen to have a desired
static and/or kinetic frictional properties based on desired
resistance to movement (i.e., the desired threshold force that must
be applied by the user to move the ferrule relative to the handle.)
In some implementations, the frictional material may also comprise
a lubricant to reduce wear of the swivel connector 606 and the
ferrule 602.
[0056] As illustrated in FIG. 6C, ferrule 602 comprises a tracking
pattern 604 with three defined tracks T.sub.1, T.sub.2, and
T.sub.3. In other implementations, ferrule 602 may have more or
less tracks. Each track, such as T.sub.1, T.sub.2, and T.sub.3, may
be of different length, allowing the applicator to track to pre-set
positions at the end of each track, the pre-set positions
corresponding to different angular positions of the applicator.
[0057] As depicted in FIG. 6C, track T.sub.1 has the shortest track
length (relative to T.sub.2, and T.sub.3), which corresponds to
position P.sub.2. At position P.sub.2, applicator 610 may be
secured at an angle .theta. relative to the axis of the handle 608.
As further depicted in FIG. 6C, track T.sub.3 has the longest track
length (relative to T.sub.1, and T.sub.2), which corresponds to
position P.sub.4. At position P.sub.4, applicator 610 may be
secured at angle .alpha. relative to the axis of the handle 608,
where .alpha.>.theta.. Additionally, track T.sub.2, which
corresponds to position P.sub.3, has a track length greater than
T.sub.1 and less than T.sub.3. Consequently,
.alpha.>.psi.>.theta., where .psi. is the angle of the
applicator at position P.sub.3 relative to the axis of the handle
608.
[0058] The pre-set positions may secure the applicator 610 at
different angles (e.g., .alpha., .psi., and .theta.) to improve the
ergonomics and efficiency of cosmetic application to various places
on the head, face, and body. For example, a first application of
cosmetics, such as an application of foundation to a forehead, may
require an applicator 610 that is aligned with an axis of the
handle 608, as depicted in FIG. 6A at position P.sub.1. A second
application of cosmetics, such as an application of eye liner to a
lower eyelid, may require an applicator 610 deflected at an angle,
such as angle .theta. at P.sub.2. The acute angle .theta. may allow
the application surface to more easily fit underneath the lower
eyelashes, thereby providing a more ergonomic and efficient
application of eye liner.
[0059] In various implementations, as shown in the illustrative
example at position P.sub.2, the applicator 610 may also rotate 360
degrees clockwise or counterclockwise about its own axis. This may
be desirable for even more precise application of cosmetic product,
where a more wide or narrow cross section of the application
surface is desired.
[0060] In various implementations, tracks T.sub.1, T.sub.2, and
T.sub.3 may each include a detent for securing the applicator 610
in pre-set positions. In some implementations the detent may be a
clip to secure the applicator in a particular position. In some
implementations, range may be limited by "stops" or the extent of
grooves or tracks in the ferrule. In various implementations, each
track may be comprised of more than one detent or stop, each detent
or stop securing the applicator in a different pre-set positions
along each track.
[0061] FIG. 7 depicts an illustrative example of a cosmetic
implement with a removable applicator. The cosmetic implement
depicted in FIG. 7 may comprise any of the features or combinations
thereof discussed above with reference to FIGS. 1A-6C.
[0062] As illustrated in FIG. 7, cosmetic implement 700 further
comprises a removable applicator 702, such as removable applicator
702A-702E. The removable applicator 702 may be secured to handle
704 by a swivel connector 706. In the illustrative example, the
swivel connector 706 comprises a ball 708 and a link 710. In
various implementations, the ball 708 may be housed in a
ball-and-socket joint in the handle 704, and secured in place with
a ferrule 712. In some implementations, the ball 708 may be housed
and secured by ferrule 712. The link 710 of the swivel connector
706 is configured to protrude out of the handle 704 and/or the
ferrule 712.
[0063] In the illustrative example, removable applicator 702 may be
coupled to the link 710 by a screw-type adapter. In such examples,
the removable applicator 702 may be secured to the link 710 by
rotating the applicator onto the link in a clockwise rotation. In
various implementations, the removable applicator 702 may be
coupled to link 708 by a snap-fit or press-fit connection. In some
implementations, removable applicator 702 may comprise a spring
loaded latch system such that when at least one button is pressed,
latches securing the removable applicator 702 to grooves in the
link 710 may be released. Conversely, when the at least one button
is released, the tension in the spring releases, and the latches
seat in grooves located on link 710, thereby firmly securing the
removable applicator to the swivel connector 706.
[0064] Removable applicator 702 may be configured to house
application surface 714. Application surface 714 may be secured in
removable applicator 702 by gluing, anchoring, clamping, press-fit,
or any other reasonable method for securing an application surface
into a housing. In various implementations, application surface 714
may be a sponge applicator, such as that depicted in application
surface 714A. In some implementations, application surface 714 may
be comprised of a group of bristles forming a brush applicator,
such as those depicted in application surface 714B-714E. In such
implementations, the brush applicator may be made of natural
bristles, synthetic bristles, metallic bristles, flocking or a
composite thereof. However, in other implementations, the
application surface 714 may be made of silicone, rubber, foam,
latex, an elastomer, plastic or a composite thereof.
[0065] In various implementations, the application surface 714 may
take on any number of shapes. For example, the application surface
714A comprises a substantially rectangular shaped surface. However,
many other suitable cross sectional shaped surfaces may be used
(e.g. square, circle, oval, triangle, fan, etc.). For example,
application surface 714B and 714C depict semi-circular or dome-type
cross sectional shapes. For yet more examples, application surface
714D depicts a fan shaped cross sectional shape, and application
surface 714E depicts a triangular cross sectional shape.
[0066] Additionally, in some implementations, application surfaces
714A-714E may be of varying densities. For example, application
surface 714A may be of a higher bristle count than application
surface 714E, or vice versa.
[0067] In various implementations, removable applicator 702 may be
variable in size (e.g., width, length, height, etc.). For example,
as depicted removable applicator 702D is larger than removable
applicator 702C.
[0068] A cosmetic implement 700 with a removable applicator 714
provides the capability of precise application of product for each
desired area, further increasing the efficiency of the single
applicator which can perform multiple functions.
CONCLUSION
[0069] Although implementations have been described in language
specific to structural feature, it is to be understood that the
disclosure is not necessarily limited to the specific features or
acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are
disclosed as illustrative forms of employing the implementations.
For example, in various implementations, any of the structural
features and/or methodological acts described herein may be
rearranged, modified, or omitted entirely. For example, the shape,
size, and configuration of the cosmetic implement handle, ferrule,
applicator, and movement mechanisms may be varied.
* * * * *