U.S. patent application number 16/444882 was filed with the patent office on 2019-12-19 for container for a composition of reflective particles.
The applicant listed for this patent is CRAYOLA LLC. Invention is credited to Matt Durant, Jennifer Kesilman.
Application Number | 20190382160 16/444882 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 68838988 |
Filed Date | 2019-12-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20190382160 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kesilman; Jennifer ; et
al. |
December 19, 2019 |
CONTAINER FOR A COMPOSITION OF REFLECTIVE PARTICLES
Abstract
Embodiments herein disclose a composition including reflective
particles and a kit that includes the composition. In embodiments,
the composition includes a water-soluble synthetic polymer, starch,
and reflective particles. In some embodiment, the kit includes the
composition and a surface or object to which the composition may be
applied. Embodiments herein further disclose a crush-resistant
container for storage of the composition.
Inventors: |
Kesilman; Jennifer;
(Bethlehem, PA) ; Durant; Matt; (San Clemente,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
CRAYOLA LLC |
EASTON |
PA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
68838988 |
Appl. No.: |
16/444882 |
Filed: |
June 18, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62686401 |
Jun 18, 2018 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C09D 103/02 20130101;
B41F 15/34 20130101; C08L 3/02 20130101; C08L 31/04 20130101; C08L
29/04 20130101; B44C 3/046 20130101; B65D 21/0206 20130101; B44D
2/002 20130101; C08L 3/02 20130101; C08L 3/02 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 21/02 20060101
B65D021/02 |
Claims
1. An apparatus comprising: a body having a plurality of wells
extending outward from a plane corresponding to the body, the
plurality of wells being arranged in one or more columns, each of
the plurality of wells forming a hollow truncated cone shape with a
rounded distal portion; and a backing substrate coupled to the
body, the backing substrate being arranged in one or more strips
that correspond to the one or more columns of the plurality of
wells, wherein coupling the backing substrate to the body seals the
plurality of wells having the hollow truncated cone shape.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plurality of wells are
further arranged to form one or more rows.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plurality of wells are
integrally formed with the body such that the body is a unitary
piece of construction.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of wells
has a first wall and a second wall that is adjacent to the first
wall, wherein the first wall extends outward from the body at an
acute angle to the plane and the second wall adjoins the first wall
at an obtuse angle to form the hollow truncated cone shape.
5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the second wall comprises a
second wall rounded portion where the second wall adjoins the first
wall, and wherein the second wall forms the rounded distal portion
of the hollow truncated cone shape.
6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the hollow truncated cone
shape has a first diameter measured proximate to the body, wherein
the rounded distal portion formed by the second wall has a second
diameter, and wherein the first diameter is greater than the second
diameter of the second wall.
7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the second diameter is about
3/4 relative to the first diameter.
8. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the second diameter is about
1/2 relative to the first diameter.
9. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the second diameter is about
1/4 relative to the first diameter.
10. An apparatus comprising: a body having a first surface and a
plurality of wells extending outward from a plane corresponding to
the body, the plurality of wells arranged to form a plurality of
columns and a plurality of rows, each of the plurality of wells
having a hollow truncated cone shape configured to fit a discrete
volume of a composition; and a backing substrate coupled to the
first surface of the body, the backing substrate being arranged in
a plurality of strips that correspond to the plurality of columns
of the plurality of wells, wherein coupling the backing substrate
to the first surface of the body seals the plurality of wells
having the hollow truncated cone shape.
11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the backing substrate is
coupled to the first surface of the body and wherein each of the
plurality of strips is individually separable from the first
surface of the body.
12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein each of the plurality of
wells has a first wall and a second wall that is adjacent to the
first wall, wherein the first wall extends outward from the body at
an acute angle to the plane corresponding to the first surface and
the second wall adjoins the first wall at an obtuse angle to form
the hollow truncated cone shape.
13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the second wall comprises a
second wall rounded portion where the second wall adjoins the first
wall, and wherein the second wall forms the rounded distal portion
of the hollow truncated cone shape.
14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the hollow truncated cone
shape has a first diameter measured proximate to the body, wherein
the rounded distal portion formed by the second wall has a second
diameter, and wherein the first diameter of the hollow truncated
cone shape is greater than the second diameter of the second
wall.
15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the second diameter is 3/4
relative to the first diameter, and wherein the second diameter as
relative to the first diameter provides structural strength when
pressure is applied against the second wall in a direction toward
the plane corresponding to the body.
16. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the second diameter is 1/2
relative to the first diameter, and wherein the second diameter as
relative to the first diameter provides structural strength when
pressure is applied against the second wall in a direction toward
the plane corresponding to the body.
17. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the second diameter is about
1/4 relative to the first diameter, and wherein the second diameter
as relative to the first diameter provides structural strength when
pressure is applied against the second wall in a direction toward
the plane corresponding to the body.
18. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the backing substrate
comprises a non-permeable material that seals each of the plurality
of wells to reduce moisture loss from the discrete volume of the
composition stored in the hollow truncated cone shape.
19. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the backing substrate
comprises a tear-resistant material, and wherein one or more
portions of the backing substrate are separately removable from the
body in order to leave at least a portion of the plurality of
columns of the plurality of wells sealed by the backing substrate
subsequent to removal of at least one of the one or more portions
of the backing substrate.
20. An apparatus comprising: a body having a first surface and a
plurality of wells extending outward from a plane corresponding to
the first surface, the plurality of wells being arranged in rows
and columns, each of the plurality of wells having a hollow
truncated cone shape that is configured to fit a discrete volume of
a composition; a backing substrate coupled to the first surface of
the body, the backing substrate having perforations arranged in
strips that correspond to the columns of the plurality of wells,
wherein coupling the backing substrate to the first surface of the
body seals the plurality of wells having the hollow truncated cone
shape; and a plurality of segments of the discrete volumes of the
composition, wherein the plurality of segments comprises a
plurality of glitter particles, and further wherein the plurality
of segments are removably stored within the plurality of wells
based on selective removal of the perforated backing substrate.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application entitled "Container for a Composition of
Reflective Particles" is a nonprovisional application that claims
the benefit of and priority to provisional U.S. Application No.
62/686,401, filed on 18 Jun. 2018 and entitled "Kit and Composition
for Glitter," the entirety of which is incorporated by reference
herein.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Reflective particles, such as glitter, are a medium that is
notoriously difficult to control, contain, and clean up. Because of
these difficulties, the shiny, tiny, light-weight and often
airborne particles manage to inconceivably migrate from an art
project, for example, to clothing, skin, rugs, furniture, pets,
cabinets, and all household surfaces. Once glitter is unleashed
from its container, it cannot be eradicated from a household nor
will it be prevented from migrating to new and unwanted locations
both in and out of the home (e.g., finding glitter in unexpected
places and even years later). Accordingly, controlling the
application of loose glitter and/or containing loose glitter spills
is an exercise in futility. Yet, glitter remains an extremely
popular medium because it provides an exciting, light-catching
appearance that cannot be replicated by other materials, thereby
ensuring its continued use and corresponding frustration.
SUMMARY
[0003] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of
concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in
the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify
key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter,
nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of
the claimed subject matter. The present invention is defined by the
claims as supported by the Specification, including the Detailed
Description.
[0004] In brief and at a high level, this disclosure describes,
among other things, a composition and kits comprising the
composition. The composition comprising reflective particles
provides the look of pure glitter in a mess-free dough-like
material that may be adhered to surfaces and objects. Moreover, the
composition may be applied to and removed from a surface after
application multiple times, for example, while the reflective
particles remain held within the composition. In this way, the
composition can be used as a mess-free and non-flaking replacement
for the messy, conventional means of applying an adhesive, such as
a glue, to a surface, pouring loose glitter onto the exposed,
adhesive portions of the surface for permanent affixation (i.e.,
glitter cannot be removed once the adhesive is bonded to the
glitter, such as when glue cures or dries), shaking off the loose
glitter than does not adhere to the adhesive portions of the
surface, and attempting to contain the loose glitter throughout the
process.
[0005] This disclosure further describes, among other things, a
container or packaging for storing discrete volumes of the
composition. The container provides a plurality of wells that
protect against crushing of the discrete volumes of the composition
as stored in a desired shape or form within the wells.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] Embodiments are described in detail below with reference to
the attached drawings figures, wherein:
[0007] FIG. 1 is a table of example value ranges for components of
the composition in accordance with an embodiment;
[0008] FIGS. 2-4 depict an example of applying force to a defined
volume of the composition in order to deform the defined volume of
the composition in accordance with an embodiment;
[0009] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an example of a defined
volume of the composition as shaped into a form in accordance with
an embodiment;
[0010] FIG. 6 depicts a perspective view of an example tool in
accordance with an embodiment;
[0011] FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of an example tool in
accordance with another embodiment;
[0012] FIG. 8 depicts a perspective view of an example of a
container for storage of defined volumes of the composition in
accordance with an embodiment;
[0013] FIG. 9 depicts another perspective view of an example of a
container for storage of defined volumes of the composition in
accordance with an embodiment;
[0014] FIG. 10 depicts a cross-sectional view of a portion of the
container of FIG. 9 in accordance with an embodiment;
[0015] FIG. 11 depicts a bottom-up view of the container of FIG. 9
in accordance with an embodiment;
[0016] FIG. 12 depicts a cross-sectional view of the container of
FIG. 9 in accordance with an embodiment;
[0017] FIG. 13 is an exemplary kit in accordance with an
embodiment;
[0018] FIG. 14 is an exemplary kit in accordance with an
embodiment;
[0019] FIG. 15 is an exemplary kit in accordance with an
embodiment; and
[0020] FIG. 16 is an exemplary kit in accordance with an
embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] The subject matter of the present invention is described
with specificity herein to meet statutory requirements. However,
the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of this
patent. Rather, the inventors have contemplated that the claimed
subject matter might also be embodied in other ways, to include
different components or combinations of components similar to the
ones described in this document, in conjunction with other present
or future technologies.
[0022] Embodiments of the present invention provide a composition,
a container for storage of the composition, and a kit having the
composition and an object. The composition generally includes a
mixture of one or more compounds or components that form a
dough-like base into which reflective particles are added. In
embodiments, the composition is a cross-linked high-viscosity
liquid that exhibits reduced or no flow when in a steady-state,
e.g., dough-like consistency and texture. In some embodiments, the
composition comprises a synthetic polymer, a modeling compound, and
reflective particles in specific ratios and value ranges discussed
hereinafter, which provide the composition with superior shape
retention, mold-ability, and spreading quality. Alternatively, in
some embodiments, the composition comprises a synthetic polymer, a
starch or a non-starch based modeling compound (e.g., silicone),
and reflective particles in specific ratios and value ranges
discussed hereinafter, which provide the composition with superior
shape retention, mold-ability, and spreading quality. Additionally,
the ratios and value ranges of the one or more components in the
composition provide the composition with a level of opacity and a
degree of reflective particles that imbue the composition with the
appearance of "pure glitter," while providing containment of the
reflective particles within the composition to reduce
"fall-out."
[0023] In this manner, the composition has the appearance of pure
glitter while the composition exhibits an adhesion strength that
prevents or reduces fall-out of reflective particles from the
composition, thus providing a mess-free medium. However, the
adhesion strength is balanced through the ratios and value ranges
of the one or more components in the composition so that the
composition is moldable and has shape retention like a dough.
Further, the adhesion strength is balanced through the ratios and
value ranges of the one or more components in the composition so
that the composition may be physically applied to an object or
surface using force or pressure in order to create the appearance
of being coated in glitter in those areas of the object or surface
to which the composition is physically applied. In some aspects,
once the composition is applied to a desired substrate having
particular surface characteristics, the composition may be allowed
to "cure," or dry on the substrate, with such curing including a
bonding of at least a portion of the composition to the surface.
Upon curing, the dried composition maintains its stabilized
properties, in some aspects, and retains the glitter bound within
the composition on the substrate. Additionally, unlike conventional
methods for applying loose glitter, the adhesion strength of the
composition is balanced such that the composition can be applied to
a surface and be easily removed from that surface after
application, for example, without leaving behind a mess of
reflective particles. Accordingly, embodiments of the compound may
be applied to a desired substrate to adhere glitter within the
compound to the surface. While the compound is still moist, the
glitter may be removed from the surface, still retained within the
compound, while in other aspects, the compound may be allowed on
the surface with the glitter remaining attached to the surface. In
other words, whether the compound has been freshly applied to a
surface, or has been drying on a surface over time, in some
embodiments, the glitter particles within the compound remain
retained within the compound whether the compound is in a
moistened, repositionable state, or in a dried and stationary state
on the applied surface. In some embodiments, regardless of the
temporary or permanent status of the compound with respect to a
substrate, the adhesive properties of the compound continue to
retain the glitter particles in a desired location.
[0024] In this way, the composition provides as a mess-free and
non-flaking replacement for the untidy, conventional means of
applying runny (i.e., a low viscosity, high flow rate liquid)
adhesive (e.g., white glue) to a surface, pouring loose glitter
onto the uncured white glue for permanent affixation (i.e., glitter
cannot be removed once white glue cures or dries), shaking off the
loose glitter than does not adhere to the white glue once the white
glue has cured, and attempting to recapture any and all loose
glitter from this process. In conventional methods, loose glitter
is difficult to control and difficult to clean up. Because the
loose glitter particles are small and lightweight, they are easily
rendered airborne with the smallest disturbance and attach
themselves to every surface using static electricity. As such,
loose glitter is notoriously difficult to control and contain.
However, embodiments herein discuss a composition that exhibits the
desired look of pure glitter while the composition also controls
and contains reflective particles within the composition, avoiding
messes.
[0025] It will be understood from this Description that the
composition may include other component(s) in addition to
reflective particles, the modeling compound (e.g., starch or
silicone based), and synthetic polymer. The reflective particles
may be mixed into and held or otherwise suspended within a base
comprising the modeling compound and synthetic polymer. Because the
reflective particles are mixed into the base comprising the
modeling compound and synthetic polymer, the reflective particles
are controlled within the composition, i.e., the reflective
particles are not free or loose. In this way, the composition
enables controlled application of the composition with the
reflective particles. Additionally, because the reflective
particles are held in the composition, the composition provides a
mess-free application of reflective particles, and reduces or
eliminates clean-up of the reflective particles. The high
percentage of reflective particles in the compound provides the
look of pure reflective particles without the mess associated with
loose reflective particles. As used herein, "the appearance of pure
reflective particles" refers to the visible effect that a surface
is completely or nearly completely coated in reflective
particles.
[0026] In some embodiments, the composition may have a viscosity
and consistency that is similar to putty, clay, dough, or other
deformable and re-formable modeling compound. As such, in an
embodiment, the composition may be deformed by application of force
or pressure. The composition may conform to surfaces when force or
pressure is applied to the composition placed on a surface, for
example. The composition may be adhered to a surface by using force
or pressure to the composition to increase contact of the
composition with areas of the surface, in an embodiment. By using
force to place the composition in physical contact with the surface
or object, the composition described herein is applied to the
surface or object and creates an appearance that individual
particles of glitter are positioned adjacent additional particles
of glitter to provide a consistent surface treatment of glitter. In
other words, the composition may be used to create an appearance of
the surface or object being completely or nearly-completely coated
with reflective particles. Notably, the adhesion characteristics
and increased viscosity of the composition is such that the
reflective particles adhered to the surrounding composition, even
when force or pressure is applied, such that the reflective
particles are not free or loose, and are resistant to falling out
from the composition. The consistency of the composition is such
that the reflective particles are retained in the composition.
Accordingly, the composition reduces the ability of the reflective
particles from falling out (e.g., flaking out) of the
composition.
Composition
[0027] A composition including reflective particles is described
herein. In an embodiment, the composition comprises an adhesive
component, a modeling compound (e.g., a putty, clay, dough, or
other buildable compound), and a plurality of reflective particles.
In one embodiment, the composition comprises a synthetic polymer, a
modeling compound, and a plurality of reflective particles. In some
embodiments, the modeling compound may comprise one or more of a
starch, a starch substitute, or non-starch component that provides
a dough-like buildability. In further aspects, the composition
comprises a synthetic polymer, a modeling compound that comprises a
starch or a starch-substitute or a non-starch, and a plurality of
reflective particles. In another embodiment, the composition
comprises a synthetic polymer, a modeling compound that comprises a
starch, and a plurality of reflective particles. As shown in FIG.
1, a table of example values and value ranges for the components
forming the composition are shown. In the example embodiment of
FIG. 1, the composition comprises a water-soluble synthetic
polymer, a modeling compound comprising a starch, and a plurality
of reflective particles.
[0028] In embodiments, the composition includes a synthetic
polymer. In one embodiment, the synthetic polymer comprises an
adhesive. Additionally, the synthetic polymer may be water-soluble,
in some embodiments. Examples of a water-soluble synthetic polymer
include polymers derived from vinyl monomers. The water-soluble
synthetic polymer may be a polyvinyl ester, in some embodiments. In
one embodiment, the water-soluble synthetic polymer comprises
polyvinyl acetate. In another embodiment, the water-soluble
synthetic polymer comprises polyvinyl alcohol. In some embodiments,
the water-soluble synthetic polymer includes a mixture of polyvinyl
acetate and polyvinyl alcohol. Alternatively, the synthetic polymer
may not be water-soluble or may be only partially water-soluble, in
some embodiments.
[0029] In embodiments, the composition comprises from about 1 to
about 10 percent by weight synthetic polymer. As used herein, the
term "about" is used to designate that the value indicated includes
approximately a range .+-.0.75 percent above or below the value,
unless otherwise specified. In another embodiment, the composition
comprises from about 1 to about 8 percent, by weight, synthetic
polymer. In further embodiments, the composition comprises from
about 1.5 to about 5 percent by weight synthetic polymer. In some
embodiments, the composition comprises from about 2 to about 3.75
percent by weight synthetic polymer.
[0030] The composition further comprises a modeling compound. In
one embodiment, the modeling compound comprises a starch and/or a
starch substitute, in embodiments. Alternatively or additionally,
the modeling compound may comprise a non-starch compound such as
silicone. In various embodiments, the modeling compound may
comprise one or more of a starch, a silicone, a ceramic clay, an
oil-based clay, a polymer clay, a paper clay, a salt-dough, or
other malleable compounds with buildability. The modeling compound
may include one or more components, such as starch and/or silicone,
or a combination thereof. Generally, the term "starch" refers to a
polymeric carbohydrate having a plurality of glucose units sharing
glycosidic bonds. In an embodiment, starch comprises amylose (i.e.,
a helical polysaccharide of glucose) and amylopectin (i.e., a
branched polysaccharide of glucose) molecules. Starch may be
sourced from plants such as potatoes, wheat, maize, rice, and
cassava, for example. In one embodiment, starch comprises a
grain-based starch, such as wheat flour, spelt flour, rice flour,
barley flour. In another embodiment, starch comprises a non-grain
based flour, such as potato flour, arrowroot powder, or cassava
flour. Alternatively, an example of a starch substitute is glycogen
or a molecule that is similarly configured to glycogen. In some
embodiments, the starch comprises starch that is solubilized in a
volume of water.
[0031] In various embodiments, the composition comprises from about
5 to about 40 percent by weight modeling compound. In further
embodiments, the composition comprises from about 10 to about 30
percent by weight modeling compound. The composition comprises from
about 15 to about 25 percent by weight modeling compound, in some
embodiments. In further embodiment, the composition comprises from
about 17 to about 22 percent by weight modeling compound. In some
embodiments, the composition comprises from about 18 to about 21
percent by weight modeling compound. The values and value ranges of
the modeling compound and/or starch or starch substitute percent by
weight imbues the composition with a dough-like consistency, in
various embodiments. A dough-like consistency is desirable because
such a consistency allows the composition to be kneaded, molded
into shapes, smoothly rolled out without reduced tearing, cut into
shapes, and yet the shape is retained based on the modeling
compound and/or starch content. As shown in FIGS. 2-4, the
dough-like consistency allows a user to apply force or pressure to
a discrete volume of the composition in order to increase contact
of the surface area of the volume of composition and deform the
composition. Therefore, the defined volume of the composition is
deformed in order to spread the composition over a surface as shown
in the example of FIG. 4.
[0032] In embodiments, the composition further comprises a
plurality of reflective particles. Generally, reflective particles
refers to glitter. Though the term "reflective" is used herein for
simplicity, it will be understood that "reflective" includes
non-reflective characteristics or other visual effects. For
example, reflective particles may include glitter (i.e., a metallic
or a chrome-like finish). The reflective particles may exhibit
special effects characteristics such as glow-in-the-dark, a degree
of transparency, iridescence, opalescence, holographic,
heat-responsive color changes, and/or light-responsive color
changes, in various embodiments. In another example, the reflective
particles may exhibit a first color from one viewing angle and a
second, different color from a second, different viewing angle, to
create a "duo-chrome" or color-flash effect.
[0033] In embodiments, the composition may comprise reflective
particles consisting of one color. In some embodiments, the
composition may comprise reflective particles of more than one
color. The composition may comprise reflective particles in
combinations of color(s) and/or special effect(s), in various
embodiments. In embodiments, the color of the reflective particles
may be the same or in the same color family as the color of the
remaining portion of the composition (e.g., based on pigment(s) or
dye(s) in the composition). As discussed above, the composition may
include one or more pigments that increase the opacity of the
composition. In one example, the overall composition may be purple,
and include purple glitter. Together, the increased opacity of the
composition resulting from the inclusion one or more pigments in
combination with the reflective particles content in the range
discussed above provide the composition with the desired appearance
of pure glitter. Alternatively, the color of the reflective
particles may be different than the color of the remaining
portion(s) of the composition. For example, the overall composition
may be green in color while the reflective particles are purple in
color. In yet a further example, the overall composition may be
red, and include both gold and orange glitter. Accordingly, it will
be understood that the combination of pigments and the color or
special effect provided by the reflective particles found in the
final composition may vary. In further embodiments, the other
components of the composition may be colorless or nearly colorless,
such that the color of the reflective particles provides the
overall visible color of the composition. For example, a
transparent or at least somewhat transparent base of the
composition may be formulated in a manner that refracts light,
which may magnify and visibly increase the reflectivity of the
reflective particles in the composition (e.g., the composition may
have a "wet look" appearance here the glitter exhibits visibly
increased shine, depth, and color saturation).
[0034] The dimensions or size of the individual reflective
particles may be macro (e.g., approximately 0.250 inches or less),
chunky (e.g., approximately 0.040 inches or less), standard (e.g.,
approximately 0.080 inches or less), fine (e.g., approximately
0.015 inches or less), extra-fine (e.g., approximately 0.008 inches
or less), super-fine (e.g., approximately 0.006 inches or less),
and/or a mix thereof, in various embodiments. Further, the shape of
the individual reflective particles may be any shape (e.g.,
hexagonal, octagonal, square, round, circular, five-pointed star,
asymmetrical), and may comprise more than one shape. It will be
thus understood that the shape and size of the reflective particles
shown in the figures herein are non-limiting.
[0035] In an embodiment, the composition comprises at least about 8
percent, by weight, of reflective particles. In another embodiment,
the composition comprises at least about 12 percent, by weight, of
reflective particles. In one embodiment, the composition comprises
at least about 15 percent, by weight, of reflective particles. In
some embodiments, the composition comprises at least about 18
percent, by weight, of reflective particles. In further
embodiments, the composition comprises at least about 20 percent,
by weight, of reflective particles. In another embodiment, the
composition comprises at least about 30 percent, by weight, of
reflective particles. In yet another embodiment, the composition
may comprise a range of at least about 15 to about 35 percent by
weight of reflective particles. In an embodiment, the composition
comprises a range of at least about 16 to about 22 percent by
weight of reflective particles. The percent by weight or the range
of percent by weight of the reflective particles in the composition
provides the composition with the appearance of "pure glitter"
while maintaining the composition's ability to prevent or reduce
the fall-out of reflective particles from the composition, thus
providing a mess-free medium. Accordingly, when the composition is
applied to an object or surface, the object or surface gains the
appearance of being "coated in glitter" in areas to which the
composition is applied from the percent by weight of reflective
particles in the composition. For example, the defined volume of
the composition that is deformed and applied over the surface in
FIG. 5 has the appearance of pure glitter.
[0036] Further, the composition may be applied to and removed from
a surface after application multiple times, for example, generally
without leaving behind any or much of the reflective particles
because the reflective particles are held within the composition.
In this way, the composition can be used as a mess-free and
non-flaking replacement for the messy, conventional means of
applying runny white glue to a surface, pouring loose glitter onto
the white glue for permanent affixation (i.e., glitter cannot be
removed once white glue cures or dries), shaking off the loose
glitter than does not adhere to the white glue, and attempting to
contain the loose glitter throughout the process.
[0037] Continuing, in embodiments, the ratio of the percent by
weight of the synthetic polymer relative to the percent by weight
of the modeling compound facilitates an even distribution of the
reflective particles in the composition. Additionally, the ratio is
such that the reflective particles do not "settle" to the bottom of
the composition based on gravity, and such that the reflective
particles do not aggregate together to form "clumps" in the
composition. Further still, the ratio of the percent by weight of
the synthetic polymer relative to the modeling compound facilitates
retaining of the reflective particles in the composition. Because
the composition holds the reflective particles in the composition,
flaking or fall-out of the reflective particles is reduced even
after the composition is applied to an object or surface. For
example, the composition may comprise from about 1 to about 5
percent, by weight, the synthetic polymer and from about 15 to
about 30 percent, by weight, the modeling compound. In another
example, the composition may comprise from about 3 to about 4
percent, by weight, the synthetic polymer and from about 17 to
about 22 percent, by weight, the modeling compound. In various
embodiments, the composition comprises a ratio between 1:6 and 1:40
of the synthetic polymer relative to the modeling compound. In some
embodiments, the composition comprises a ratio between 1:6 and 1:20
of the synthetic polymer relative to the modeling compound. In such
embodiments, this range of ratios facilitates adhesion of the
reflective particles within the composition. In further
embodiments, the composition comprises a ratio between 1:7 and 1:9
of the synthetic polymer relative to the modeling compound. These
examples of ratios, for example, between 1:6 and 1:20 is such that
the adhesion of the overall composition is balanced, allowing the
composition to adhere to any number of surfaces but allowing easy
removal of the composition after application. As such, the
composition has a greater self-adhesion strength relative to the
strength of adhesion of the composition to other surfaces.
[0038] Continuing, the ratio of the percent by weight of the
synthetic polymer relative to the percent by weight of the modeling
compound prevents or reduces fall-out of the reflective particles
from the composition, while the percentage by weight of the
reflective particles in the composition gives the composition the
appearance of pure glitter without the mess associated with
glitter. In one embodiment, the composition comprises from about 1
to about 10 percent, by weight, synthetic polymer, from about 5 to
about 40 percent, by weight, modeling compound, and at least about
8 percent, by weight, of reflective particles. In another
embodiment, the composition comprises from about 2 to about 4.5
percent, by weight, synthetic polymer, from about 17 to 21 percent,
by weight, modeling compound, and at least about 15 percent, by
weight, of reflective particles ratio of each of the synthetic
polymer, modeling compound, and the reflective particles to one
another generate these unexpected concurrent qualities of buildable
dough-like consistency, the appearance of pure glitter in
application, and reduced or prevented reflective particle fall-out
from the composition for a mess-free play pattern.
[0039] Moreover, because the composition has a dough-like
consistency based on the ratios discussed above, the composition
may be shaped in any way. Further, because of the self-adhesion of
the composition, the composition may be apportioned into one or
more defined volumes (e.g., portions or aliquots). For example, the
composition may be apportioned into discrete volumes and shaped
into spherical forms (e.g., a ball-like shape or "dot" as shown in
the example of FIG. 5), elliptical forms, rectangular forms,
cylindrical forms (e.g., a cylindrical shape or "snake"), or any
polygon. Apportioning the composition allows for discrete
quantities of the composition to be "used" by applying one discrete
spherical volume of the composition to a surface of object in a
controlled and rationed manner.
[0040] Additionally, in some embodiments, the composition comprises
a cross-linking agent (e.g., boron-containing salt, boric acid,
sodium borate). Examples of additional components include pigments
and dyes for color changes such as leuco-dyes (i.e., light
responsive color change, thermally responsive color change),
compounds for transferring color from the composition to another
surface or medium, and/or compounds that aid in the suspension the
reflective particles within the composition. In some embodiments,
the composition includes one or more pigments to increase the
opacity of the composition and provide a visible color, tint, or
shade to the overall composition.
[0041] In one embodiment, the composition comprises from about 1 to
about 10 percent by weight synthetic polymer, from about 5 to about
40 percent by weight modeling compound, at least about 8 percent by
weight of reflective particles, and a cross-linking agent. In one
embodiment, the composition comprises a range of about 0.20 to 0.10
percent by weight of a cross-linking agent, with "about" in this
instance referring to approximately .+-.0.05%. The inclusion of a
cross-linking agent in the composition can reduce or mitigate the
adhesion strength produced by the synthetic polymer, for example.
As such, the cross-linking again can be included in the composition
to balance the adhesion of the overall composition in a manner that
retains the reflective particles within the composition but which
concurrently allows the composition to be applied, removed, and
re-applied to an object multiple times without damaging a surface.
Examples of cross-linking agents include compounds that comprise
boron, boric acid, and/or boron-containing salts.
[0042] In embodiments, the composition may include one or more weak
acids, wherein the weak acids are used to adjust the pH of the
overall composition. Examples of a weak acid include phosphoric
acid and citric acid. Adjusting the pH of the overall composition
to a range between 4 to 6 using one or more weak acids balances the
adhesion of the overall composition in a manner that retains the
reflective particles within the composition but which concurrently
allows the composition to be applied, removed, and re-applied to an
object multiple times without damaging a surface of that object.
Additionally, using a weak acid to create the pH value range,
discussed above, within the composition prevents the composition
from becoming overly-sticky (e.g., adhesion to surfaces is greater
than self-adhesion of the composition).
[0043] As discussed above, the ranges of the components in the
composition provide the composition with superior shaping, molding,
and spreading quality. The ranges of the components in the
composition also provide the composition with the appearance of
pure glitter, while providing containment of the reflective
particles within the composition to reduce fall-out.
[0044] It will be understood that the composition is not limited to
only those chemical compounds described herein, as other chemical
compounds that provide the benefits discussed above are considered
to be within the scope of the disclosure.
System for Delivery of the Composition
[0045] A system is described hereinafter for delivery of the
composition. In embodiments, the system comprises the composition
and a tool comprising a body for manipulation or "delivery" of the
composition. Generally, the tool may be configured to apply force
or pressure to the composition, for example, as apportioned into
one or more defined volumes having any shape as discussed above. In
some embodiments, the tool is configured to apply force or pressure
to the composition so that the composition is deformed. By
deforming the composition, the composition may be shaped.
Additionally or alternatively, by applying force and deforming the
composition, the composition may be forced into contact with a
surface or object so that the composition adheres to the surface or
object as deformed. By delivering the composition to adhere to a
surface or object, the surface or object appears to be coated in
pure glitter in those areas where the composition is placed, based
on the visibility of the composition.
[0046] The tool may be used to deform the composition by deforming
the composition in a manner that increases the available surface
area of a volume of the composition, e.g., by spreading or rolling
a defined volume of the composition into a flattened shape or
sheet. The tool may be used to apply an amount of pressure over a
surface area that is sufficient to deform the composition by
cutting, slicing, and/or piercing at least a portion of a defined
volume of composition. As such, the tool may comprises at least one
of a rounded edge, a beveled edge, a ridge, a blunt end, a
projection, a probe, or at least one terminal end that is adapted
to slice, cut, poke, or pierce the composition. In the example
shown in FIG. 6, the tool 600 comprise a tool body 602. The tool
600 may comprise a first area 604 having a greater width than a
second area 606 of the tool body 602, wherein the first area 604
having a greater width than the second area 606 forms a first
terminal end 607 of the tool body 602, and wherein the first area
604 is adapted to contact the composition such that when applying
force via the tool 600, the first area 604 is adapted to increase
the surface area of the composition by spreading at least a portion
of the composition, for example, across a surface. In some
embodiments, the first terminal end 607 that is flared in width and
shape (e.g., adapted for spreading) relative to the width of the
tool body 602. The first terminal end 607 that is flared may have a
width that increases as the first terminal end 607 becomes less
proximate the center of the tool body 602 (i.e., in a direction
away from the center of the body) and may decrease in width at or
near a point or location where the first terminal end 607 is
coupled to or merged into the tool body 602. In further
embodiments, the tool body 602 of the tool 600 comprises a second
terminal end 608 opposite the first terminal end 607, wherein the
second terminal end 608 is tapered in shape and in width relative
to the width of the tool body 602. In some embodiments, the tool
body 602 is a generally cylindrical shape that is from about three
to about eight inches in longitudinal length, and having a diameter
than is about 3/4 to about 1/2 inch. The surface of one or more
areas of the tool body 602 may be textured to increase grip in the
hand, or may be smooth to increase comfort in the hand, in some
embodiments. Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the
first terminal end 607 or the second terminal end 608 may have an
area of the surface that is textured (not shown), for example, and
adapted to apply force to the composition and thus create patterns
or textures in the composition.
[0047] In some embodiments, such as that shown in the example of
FIG. 7, the tool 700 comprises a tool body 702, and the tool body
702 comprises an handle 703 for positioning in an appendage of a
user. In further embodiments, the handle 703 is ergonomically
shaped. The tool body 702 may be generally round or cylindrical in
shape, in embodiments. In further embodiments, the tool body 702
may be about three to about eight inches in longitudinal length of
the cylindrical shape. The tool body 702 may have a diameter than
is about 3/4 to about 1/2 inch. The surface of one or more areas of
the tool body 702 may be textured to increase grip in the hand, or
may be smooth to increase comfort in the hand, in some embodiments.
In some embodiments, the tool 700 further includes a cylindrical
portion 704 that may be releasably coupled to the body (e.g., can
be attached, de-attached, and re-attached multiple times), wherein
the cylindrical portion 704 is rotatable in at least one of a
clockwise direction or counterclockwise direction about a
longitudinal axis that runs parallel to a length of the cylindrical
portion 704, and wherein the cylindrical portion 704 is adapted to
deform a defined volume of the composition by contacting a surface
of the cylindrical portion 704 to the composition and concurrently
applying force to the tool 700 in order to rotate the cylindrical
portion 704. The cylindrical portion 704 may have a first end 706
and a second end (not visible in FIG. 7) that are configured to
mate with a first arm 710 and a second arm 712 of the tool body
702. Mating the first arm 710 of the tool body 702 to the first end
706 of the cylindrical portion 704 and mating the second arm 712 of
the tool body 702 to the second end of the cylindrical portion 704
may releaseably affix the cylindrical portion 704 to the tool body
702. As affixed to the tool body 702, the cylindrical portion 704
is able to freely rotate about the longitudinal axis that is
parallel to the length of the cylindrical portion 704. In this way,
the tool 700 may be used to place the cylindrical portion 704 in
contact with a defined or discrete volume of the composition,
downward pressure may be applied using the tool body 702, and a
forward and back motion may be used with the downward pressure to
roll the cylindrical portion 704 over the composition. Accordingly,
the tool 700 may be used to roll out or spread the defined or
discrete volume of the composition over one or more surfaces, for
example. For example, the tool 700 may be a brayer that is adapted
to apply the composition to one or more objects, such as a planar
product.
Container for the Composition
[0048] Because the composition has a dough-like consistency that
can be deformed by the application of force or pressure, for
example, via a user's fingers or a tool as discussed above, defined
or discrete volumes of the composition that are shaped into a
desired form (e.g., as shown in FIG. 5) may lose their desired form
when the defined volumes are inadvertently crushed. Accordingly, a
container for storing the defined volumes of the composition in a
manner that preserves and protects the desired form or shape of the
defined volumes is discussed herein.
[0049] FIGS. 8-9 depict an example container 800 for storing a
plurality of discrete volumes of the composition and for protecting
the shape or form of the discrete volumes. The container 800
comprises a body 802 and a backing substrate 804. The body 802
comprises a plurality of wells 806a, 806b, 806c, and 806n.
Generally, the plurality of wells 806a, 806b, 806c, and 806n extend
outward from a plane corresponding to the body 802. In some
embodiments, the plurality of wells 806a, 806b, 806c, and 806n are
arranged in one or more columns and/or one or more rows. In further
embodiments, the plurality of wells 806a, 806b, 806c, and 806n are
arranged in for form a plurality of columns and a plurality of
rows.
[0050] The wells 806a, 806b, 806c, and 806n may be integrally
formed with the body 802 such that the body 802 is one unitary
piece of construction, in some embodiments. Alternatively, the
plurality of wells 806a, 806b, 806c, and 806n may be formed
separate from the body 802.
[0051] In embodiments, each of the plurality of wells forms a
hollow truncated cone shape. In some embodiments, the wells are
partially hollow. Each of the plurality of wells 806a, 806b, 806c,
and 806n may have dimensions for the truncated cone shape that
enable one defined volume of the composition, as shaped into a
desired form, to fit within each individual well. In an alternative
embodiment, each of the plurality of wells 806a, 806b, 806c, and
806n may have dimensions that enable two defined volumes of the
composition, as shaped into the desired form, to fit within each
individual well. In yet another embodiment, each of the plurality
of wells 806a, 806b, 806c, and 806n may have dimensions that enable
one or more defined volumes of the composition, as shaped into a
desired form, to physically fit within each individual well. The
dimensions of each of the plurality of wells 806a, 806b, 806c, and
806n prevents crushing of the individual wells, and by proxy,
crushing of the defined volumes of the composition stored in each
well. In particular, the dimensions of the truncated cone shape
with a rounded distal portion may prevent crushing of the wells,
thus protecting any stored composition.
[0052] Turning to FIG. 10, an example of a well 1000 is depicted,
shown in a cross section taken perpendicular to the plane of the
body 802 in the orientation shown in FIG. 9. The well 1000 is
integrally formed with the body 802. The well 1000 generally
exhibits a cross-sectional shape of a generally hollow truncated
cone, such that the well forms a hollow 1008 having an opening at
the base of the truncated cone shape that, thus, is an opening that
provides access to the hollow 1008. The well 1000 comprises a first
wall 1002 and a second wall 1004. The first wall 1002 may be about
10 to 15 millimeters in length, in some embodiments. Additionally,
the first wall 1002 may have a material thickness of about 0.6 to
about 0.2 millimeters, in various embodiments. In other
embodiments, the first wall 1002 may have a materials thickness
between about 1 to about 0.6 millimeters. The material thickness of
the first wall 1002 may not be uniform, in some embodiments. The
first wall 1002 and the second wall 1004 may have the same or
different material thickness, in various embodiments.
[0053] The first wall 1002 forms a conical shape having a first
diameter 1006, where the first diameter 1006 is measured where the
first wall 1002 adjoins the body 802. In embodiments, the opening
of the well may have a first diameter 1006 measuring about 10 to
about 16 millimeters. The first diameter 1006 corresponds to a
first base of the truncated cone shape. Notably, the first base of
the well 1000 corresponds to the opening that provides access to
the hollow 1008 of the well 1000. As such, a defined volume of
composition may be inserted into the well 1000 using the opening
and placed into the hollow 1008 for storage. Accordingly, the
volume of the cavity is greater than the defined volume of the
composition.
[0054] As the well 1000 is shaped as a hollow truncated cone in
some embodiments, the first wall 1002 extends away from the body
802 and extends out of the plane of the body 802 at an acute angle
1010. The acute angle 1010 may be about 63 to about 85 degrees, in
some embodiments. In further embodiments, the acute angle 1010 may
be about 75 to about 80 degrees. The first wall 1002 has a first
proximate portion 1012 that is nearer the body 802 and a second
distal portion 1014 that is nearer or abuts the second wall 1004 of
the well 1000. The second distal portion 1014 of the first wall
1002 adjoins the second wall 1004 the well 1000. The first wall
1002 and the second wall 1004 form an obtuse angle 1016, the obtuse
angle 1016 being measured from within the hollow 1008. The obtuse
angle 1016 may be about 95 to about 125 degrees. In one embodiment,
the obtuse angle 1016 may be about 100 to about 105 degrees.
[0055] Generally, the second wall 1004 corresponds to a second base
of the truncated cone shape. In simpler terms, the second wall
corresponds to the "bottom" of the well or the narrower "top" end
of the truncated cone shape. In some embodiments, a location where
the first wall 1002 adjoins the second wall 1004, a second wall
rounded portion 1021 is formed. The second wall 1004 and the second
wall rounded portion 1021 together form a rounded distal portion
1015 of the hollow truncated cone shape, as further discussed
hereinafter. As the second wall 1004 forms a rounded distal portion
1015 of the truncated cone shape, this portion of the truncated
cone shape is measurable as having a second diameter 1017.
Accordingly, the second diameter 1017 corresponds to a diameter of
the second wall 1004. The second wall 1004 may have a second
diameter 1017 of about 5 to about 12 millimeters, in embodiments.
Additionally, the second wall 1004 may have a material thickness of
about 0.6 to about 0.2 millimeters. The material thickness of the
second wall 1004 may not be uniform, in some embodiment. In
embodiments, the second diameter 1017 of the truncated cone shape
is less than the first diameter 1006 of the first base of the
truncated cone shape of the well 1000. Because the second diameter
1017 is smaller than the first diameter 1006 based on the first
wall 1002 extending outward from the body 802 at the acute angle
1010, the well 1000 is crush-resistant, for example, when force is
applied to the second wall 1004 in a direction inward and toward
the plane of the body 802. Therefore, one or more discrete volumes
of composition having a desired shape or form that is/are stowed
within the well 1000 can maintain their desired shape or form when
force is applied to the second wall 1004 in a direction inward and
toward the plane of the body 802 because the second wall 1004 is
prevented from moving inward to contact the discrete volume(s)
stowed in the well 1000.
[0056] Thus, in some embodiments, the first wall 1002 forming the
hollow truncated shape has a first diameter 1006 measured proximate
to the body 802 and the rounded distal portion 1015 formed by the
second wall 1004 has a second diameter 1017, wherein the first
diameter is greater than the second diameter of the second wall due
to the cone shape of the well 1000. In one embodiment, the second
diameter is about 3/4 relative to the first diameter. In another
embodiment, the second diameter is about 1/2 relative to the first
diameter. In yet another embodiment, the second diameter is about
1/4 relative to the first diameter. The ratio of the second
diameter 1017 relative to the first diameter 1006 provides
structural strength against crushing the hollow truncated cone
shape of the well 1000 inward toward the plane of the body 802.
[0057] Further, the second wall rounded portion 1021, located
wherein the first wall 1002 abuts or meets the second wall 1004 to
form a round edge, aids in the distribution of stress when force is
applied to the second wall 1004 in a direction inward and toward
the plane of the body 802, further bolstering the crush-resistance
of the well 1000, in some embodiments. The second wall rounded
portion 1021 provides at least a partially domed appearance of the
second wall 1004 for the truncated cone shape, in embodiments. In
further embodiments, the second wall rounded portion 1021 provides
a partially domed appearance to the truncated cone shape, while at
least a portion of the second wall remains planar and substantially
parallel to the plane of the body 802.
[0058] Continuing, the first wall 1002 extends a first distance
1018 from the plane of the body 802 and the first distance 1018.
The first distance 1018 may be between 9 and 14 millimeters, in
embodiments. The first distance 1018 may contribute to the
crush-resistance of the well 1000. For example, when force is
applied to the second wall 1004 in a direction inward and toward
the plane of the body 802, the force is distributed as a stress
against the first wall 1002 along the first distance 1018, from the
second distal portion 1014 of the first wall 1002 to the first
proximate portion 1012 of the first wall 1002, to the first wall
portion 1020 of the first proximate portion 1012 with the body 802.
In some embodiments, the first wall portion 1020 corresponds to the
circumference of the first base of the truncated cone shape of the
well. Although shown otherwise, the first wall portion 1020 may be
a round edge that blends the first proximate portion 1012 into the
plane of the body 802 in some embodiments. A rounded edge of the
first wall portion 1020 may provide additional strength to the well
1000, in such embodiments.
[0059] The height of the truncated cone, i.e., the depth of the
well 1000, is measured from the first base to the second base,
i.e., is a distance from the second wall 1004 to the plane of the
body 802 measured at a right angle to the plane of the body 802 and
at a right angle to the second wall 1004. The height of the
truncated cone is such that a discrete volume of the composition
may fit into the hollow 1008 of the well 1000 and be stored between
the second wall 1004 and the backing substrate 804. Turning again
to FIG. 8, the backing substrate 804 may be configured to adhere to
a first surface 1022 of the body 802. By adhering to the first
surface 1022, the backing substrate 804 seals one or more hollows
(e.g., hollow 1008 of well 1000) of the plurality of wells 806a,
806b, 806c, and 806n. As such, discrete volumes of composition may
be placed in the hollows of the one or more the plurality of wells
806a, 806b, 806c, and 806n and sealed within the plurality of wells
806a, 806b, 806c, and 806n by placement of the backing substrate
804 that is adhered to the first surface of 1022 of the body 802,
in embodiments. Examples of materials that may be used to construct
or form any and all portions of the body 802 include one or more
thermoplastics. Examples of thermoplastics includes polyethylene
terephthalate and poly ethylene. The backing substrate 804 may
comprise a tear-resistant materials that forms, as adhered to the
first surface 1022 using adhesive and/or heat, an air-tight seal
(i.e., hermetic seal) of one or more discrete volumes of
composition stored within the plurality of wells 806a, 806b, 806c,
and 806n. The backing substrate 804 may have a material thickness
that is about less than 1 millimeter, in some embodiments.
Additionally, in some embodiments, the backing substrate 804 is
constructed from a non-permeable material that seals each of the
plurality of wells to reduce moisture loss from a discrete volume
of the composition stored in the hollow truncated cone shape. In
one embodiment, the backing substrate 804 comprises an
aluminum-based material. In another embodiment, the backing
substrate 804 comprises a combination of thermoplastics, such as
polyethylene terephthalate and poly ethylene, and an aluminum
containing foil.
[0060] The hermetic seal may preserve the dough-like consistency of
the composition stored therein by limiting the volume of air in
contact with the composition. By limiting the volume of air in
contact or in circulation of the stored composition, the moisture
content of the composition may be preserved and/or moisture loss
may be reduced or minimized, which thus preserves the dough-like
consistency of the composition. In some embodiments, the backing
substrate 804 is arranged to seal the plurality of wells 806a,
806b, 806c, and 806n in distinct rows or columns. Thus, the backing
substrate 804 may be arranged in one or more strips that correspond
to the one or more columns of the plurality of wells 806a, 806b,
806c, and 806n, in various embodiments. In further embodiments, the
backing substrate 804 may be arranged in a plurality of strips that
correspond to a plurality of columns of the wells. Each strip, for
example, may be individually separable from the body 802 and or the
first surface 1022 of the body 802. The backing substrate 804 may
include perforations or cuts that separate the backing substrate
804 into one or more strips. The perforations may enable each strip
to be individually be peeled away from the body 802 in order to
open each well arranged in one column, one well at a time, for
example. As such, the backing substrate 804 may be pulled or peeled
away from the first surface 1022 of the body 802 in order to access
the composition stowed within each of the wells. In embodiments,
the backing substrate 804 is configured to allow controlled,
rationed access to each well and composition stored therein.
[0061] Accordingly, the crush-resistance of each of the plurality
of wells 806a, 806b, 806c, and 806n of the container 800 preserves
the desired shape of the discrete volume of the composition stored
therein, the backing substrate 804 of the container 800 preserves
the dough-like discrete volume of the composition stored therein,
and the arrangement of the backing substrate 804 which facilitates
a one-at-a-time opening of each of the plurality of wells 806a,
806b, 806c, and 806n which rations access to the discrete volumes
of the composition such that the discrete volumes of the
composition are used as-needed.
[0062] Additionally or alternatively, a plurality of segments of
the discrete volumes of the composition may be stored within the
plurality wells 806a, 806b, 806c, and 806n of the container 800. As
such, the plurality of segments comprise the composition, which
includes a plurality of glitter particles, in some embodiments. The
plurality of segments may be removeably stored within the plurality
wells 806a, 806b, 806c, and 806n based on selective removal of the
backing substrate 804, which may be perforated to aid in removing
the backing substrate 804 in strips.
[0063] It will be understood that the shapes and dimensions
described regarding the container are not limited to only those
shapes and dimensions described herein, as other shapes and
dimensions that provide crush-resistance to the wells are
considered to be within the scope of the disclosure. Any materials
having sufficient rigidity may be used in the construction of the
wells of the containers, and any material providing a hermetic seal
may be used as the backing substrate 804.
Kits Including the Composition
[0064] Embodiments herein include a kit comprising the composition
discussed above. In some embodiments, the kit comprising the
composition includes one or more containers as discussed above,
storing defined or discrete volumes of the composition. In some
embodiments, the kit comprises the composition, the container for
the composition, and one or more tools for delivery of the
composition. In yet another embodiment, the kit comprises the
composition, the container for the composition, one or more tools
for delivery of the composition, and at least one object to which
the composition is configured to adhere. In some embodiments, the
kit includes the composition as apportioned into at least one two
defined volumes, each volume having a different color. In further
embodiments, the kit includes the composition as apportioned into a
plurality of defined volumes having a plurality of different colors
of composition and/or reflective particles.
[0065] Continuing, in some embodiments, the kit may comprise the
composition and an object. The object may comprise one or more
exposed or accessible surfaces to which the composition is
formulated to adhere, in embodiments. In one embodiment, the object
comprises one or more exposed or accessible surfaces to which the
composition may be applied using force to place the composition in
contact with the object. Exemplary objects may be constructed from
one or more of paper fibers, paperboard, foam, foamboard, plastics,
vinyl, acrylic, wood fibers, wood, metals, glass, ceramics,
porcelain, concrete, stone, and/or clay. In one example, the kit
may include a variety of different objects and/or surfaces to which
the composition is formulated to adhere.
[0066] The object may have one or more surface areas that are
smooth, ridged, textured, opaque, transparent, semi-transparent,
colored, and/or tinted, in various embodiments. The object may have
one or more surface areas that include visible ridges, printed
lines, and/or depression that, for example, may serve as guides for
the application of one or more discrete volumes of composition. The
object and/or one or more surfaces of the objection may be adapted
to facilitate both application and removal of the composition after
application, for example, in a manner that the self-adhesion of the
composition is maintained to be greater that the adhesion of the
composition to the object. Thus, object may be reusable in some
embodiments, such that the composition may be applied, removed, and
re-applied to the object, for example. This allows a person, for
example, to apply a discrete volume of the composition in a first
color to a first area, remove that volume of composition, and
instead apply another discrete volume of the composition in a
second different color of the first area (i.e., removability allows
a user of the kit to try different color combinations and
placements of the composition to the object for artistic
expression).
[0067] In an embodiment, one or more areas on a surface of the
object have one or more ridges. The composition may be applied to
between one or more ridges in order to fill or "flood" those areas
of the surface of the object between or within ridge(s), for
example, with the composition so that those areas appear to be pure
glitter. In some embodiments, the surface of the object has one or
more depressions, divots, and/or grooves. One or more discrete
volumes of the composition may be applied to partially or
completely fill those depressions, divots, and/or grooves with the
composition so that those areas have the appearance of pure
glitter. In an embodiment, the surface of the object includes one
or more of a ridge, groove, divot, depression, pattern, printed
lines, or texture that form one or more of a shape, letter, number,
face, animal, or design element. In another embodiment, the object
is a three-dimensional shape.
[0068] FIG. 11 depicts a bottom-up view of the body 802 of FIG. 9.
In embodiments, the overall length 1102 of the body is about 100 to
about 200 millimeters. Each of the plurality of wells 806a, 806b,
806c, and 806n may be evenly-spaced apart along the overall length
1102, in some embodiments, such that each well is the same distance
from one another along the overall length 1102 of the body 802.
Alternatively, each of the plurality of wells 806a, 806b, 806c, and
806n may be unevenly-spaced with respect to the overall length
1102. In an embodiment, each of the plurality of wells 806a, 806b,
806c, and 806n are spaced about 20 millimeters apart, wherein this
distance 1106 is measured from the center of one of the wells to
the center of another of the wells. Additionally or alternatively,
a terminal well in a row or column may located about 20 millimeters
or less from an edge of the body 802. For example, one terminal
well may be located at a distance 1104 of about 15 millimeters from
one edge of the body 802 and another terminal well may be located
at a distance 1108 of about 10 millimeters from the edge of the
body 802. These distances may be measured from the center of each
well, generally.
[0069] The overall width 1110 of the body 802 may be about 100 to
about 150 millimeters, in some embodiments. Each of the plurality
of wells 806a, 806b, 806c, and 806n may be evenly-spaced apart
along the overall width 1110, in some embodiments, such that each
well is the same distance from one another along the overall width
1110 of the body 802. Alternatively, each of the plurality of wells
806a, 806b, 806c, and 806n may be unevenly-spaced with respect to
the overall width 1110. In an embodiment, each of the plurality of
wells 806a, 806b, 806c, and 806n are spaced about 20 to about 25
millimeters apart, wherein this spacing distance 1114 is measured
from the center of one of the wells to the center of another of the
wells. Additionally or alternatively, a terminal well in a row or
column may located about 10 to about 15 millimeters or less from an
edge of the body 802. For example, one terminal well may be located
at a distance 1112 of about 12 millimeters from one edge of the
body 802. The distance may be measured from the center of each
well, generally.
[0070] In various embodiments, the spacing of the wells with
respect to the overall with 1110 is the same as the spacing of the
wells with respect to the overall length 1102. Alternatively, the
spacing of the wells with respect to the overall with 1110 is
different from the spacing of the wells with respect to the overall
length 1102, in one embodiment.
[0071] FIG. 12 depicts a cross-sectional view of the body 802 of
FIG. 9. As shown in the cross-sectional view, each well may have an
intersection angle of about 30 to about 20 degrees. In another
embodiment, each well may have an intersection angle of about 28 to
about 24 degrees. In one embodiment, the intersection angle is
about 26 degrees. The intersection angle generally refers an
interior angle that is measured at the apex of a non-truncated cone
shape that is extrapolated from the truncated cone shape, as shown
in the example of FIG. 12. As such, where the wells to lack a
second wall and the first wall were to extend fully to create a
non-truncated cone shape, the interior angle would be measured
where the first wall forms the apex of the non-truncated cone
shape.
[0072] FIG. 13 depicts an example of a kit 1300. The kit 1300
comprises a container 1302 storing a plurality of defined volumes
1304 of the composition sealed in the container by a backing
substrate. The kit 1300 further comprises one or more objects 1306,
which include stencils, in such an embodiment. Additionally, the
kit 1300 of FIG. 13 comprises a tool 1308 configured to apply the
composition to a surface (not shown). For example, a user may place
a stencil on top of a substrate or surface. The stencil may
comprise at least one surface area that is adapted to inhibit
adherence of the composition to the stencil, for example.
Additionally, the stencil further comprises one or more openings
that are adapted to allow adherence of the composition to the
underlying substrate through those openings. As such, subsequent to
placing or overlaying the stencil onto the substrate or surface, a
user may place one or more defined volumes 1304 of the composition
into the openings of the stencil, and apply force to the one or
more defined volumes to spread the composition into the openings
using the tool 1308, filling the shape of the openings and placing
the composition in contact with the underlying surface. Then, the
one or more objects 1306 may be lifted, leaving behind the portions
of the composition that were applied to the surface using the tool
1308. The portions of the composition applied to the surface
correspond in size and shape to the size and shape of the openings
in the one or more objects 1306 that is a stencil.
[0073] FIG. 14 depicts another example of a kit 1400. The kit 1400
comprises a container 1402 storing plurality of defined volumes
1404 of the composition sealed in the container by a backing
substrate. The kit 1400 further comprises one or more objects 1406.
The one or more objects 1406 may be objects that are configured to
cut through the composition when the composition is deformed and
spread out into a sheet-like state, in such an embodiment.
Additionally, the kit 1400 of FIG. 14 comprises a tool 1408
configured to apply the composition to a surface (not shown). For
example, a user may spread one or more segments of defined volumes
(after opening one or more wells of the container 1402 to retrieve
the composition) of the composition over a flat surface to create a
substantially planar layer of composition. The user may then use
the one or more objects 1406 to cut the planar layer of composition
into shapes that correspond to the shape of the objects 1406. The
tool 1408 may be used press designs or cut into the substantially
planar layer of composition. These designed portions of
compositions or cut-outs of composition may then be adhered to any
surface or object, in various embodiments. By cut-outs of the
composition provide the appearance of pure glitter.
[0074] FIG. 15 depicts yet another example of a kit 1500. The kit
1500 comprises a container 1502 storing plurality of defined
volumes 1504 of the composition sealed in the container by a
backing substrate. The kit 1500 further comprises one or more
objects 1506 to which the composition may be adhered. The one or
more objects 1506 may comprise a paper product, in some
embodiments. In another embodiment, the one or more objects 1506
may comprise a planar product. Examples of planar products may be
constructed from any material, such as paper or paper fibers. The
one or more objects 1506 may include lines that create an
application guide for a visual design, in some embodiments. As
such, a user apply one or more segments of defined volumes of the
composition directly to the one or more objects 1506 in order to
add the appearance of pure glitter to one or more portions of the
visual design, for example, using the application guide created by
the lines.
[0075] FIG. 16 depicts yet another example of a kit 1600. The kit
1600 comprises a container 1602 storing plurality of defined
volumes 1604 of the composition sealed in the container by a
backing substrate. The kit 1600 further comprises one or more
objects 1606 to which the composition may be adhered. The one or
more objects 1606 may comprise a two-dimensional and/or
three-dimensional surface object. In one embodiment, the one or
more objects 1606 are three-dimensional, having an exterior surface
and an interior surface. The one or more objects 1606 may be
adapted to receive the composition applied to one or more of the
exterior surface and/or interior surface, in some embodiments. In
further embodiments, the one or more objects 1606 may comprise a
transparent and/or semi-transparent material, for example. The
composition may be applied to the one or more objects 1606 using
force or pressure. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the
composition is applied to an interior surface of a transparent or
semi-transparent object so that the composition is visible through
the object. This gives the object the appearance of being filled
with reflective particles, for example. Notably, the reflective
particles remains within the composition such that the reflective
particles is not free or loose.
[0076] In yet another embodiment involving a transparent
three-dimensional surface forming an interior of a part or a hollow
mold, the composition may be applied using a tool, or even injected
using a syringe-like device to force the composition into an
interior cavity of an object. For example, in an embodiment where
the object is three-dimensional and has a first exterior layer and
a second interior layer, and where the first exterior layer is at
least partially spaced apart from the second interior layer to form
a cavity between the first exterior layer and the second interior
layer, the object may be adapted to receive the composition in the
cavity formed between the first exterior layer and the second
interior layer. Of the one or more objects described herein, the
object(s) may further comprises a hanging mechanism, such that the
object(s) may be displayed after the application of the
composition, for example.
[0077] Additionally or alternatively, the composition may be
deposited onto a surface or object in a free form manner by
applying the composition to the surface or object, and applying
pressure to the composition as applied to the surface or object.
The composition shapes may be applied to various surfaces to
provide the look of a surface that is substantially or completely
covered with reflective particles.
[0078] In further embodiments, the kit may comprise a tool
configured to emboss or carve a surface of an object in the kit.
The object may have one or more surface areas lacking ridges or
grooves wherein the tool can be used to applying pressure to emboss
(e.g., crush material) or carve (e.g., remove material) the surface
of the object. In one such embodiment, the ridges and/or grooves
created using the tool can be filled with glitter. Additionally,
the tool may create ridges or grooves that are specifically shaped
to fit the dimensions of an applicator that is adapted to apply or
delivery the composition. An applicator for depositing the
composition may be shaped to fit between ridges, against ridges,
and/or may fit into grooves such that the composition may be
deposited with control and finesse.
[0079] Although the kits described herein are depicted as
comprising the container for storing discrete volumes of the
composition, it will be understood that other container(s) may be
employed or altogether omitted from a kit. As such, embodiments of
the kits discussed herein that omit the container discussed
hereinabove are contemplated to be within the scope of this
disclosure.
[0080] The present invention has been described in relation to some
embodiments, which are intended in all respects to be illustrative
rather than restrictive. Further, the present invention is not
limited to these embodiments, but variations and modifications may
be made without departing from the scope of the present
invention.
* * * * *