KIT FOR ARTIFICIAL GEL NAILS

Abstract

A kit for artificial gel nails includes a housing, and a gel composition in a first container. There is also curing device having a light source to provide UV light. The light source is mounted in a module or fixture body with a top panel and a bottom panel. When the light source is mounted in the top panel, the light source faces downward towards the bottom panel. A mirrored surface on the bottom panel reflects the light source. The curing device can also have an interactive interface with a visual display and/or a speaker for monitoring and adjusting the light source and speaker content. Embodiments of the kit also include a cleanser composition in a second container and a removal composition in a third container, both removably placed in the housing. A buffing stick and at least one detailing wand may also be placed within the housing.

Description

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

REFERENCE TO MICROFICHE APPENDIX

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to artificial nails. More particularly, the present invention relates to a kit for artificial gel nails.

2. Description of Related Art Including Information Disclosed Under 37 CFR 1.97 and 37 CFR 1.98

Artificial nails are fashion accessories to cover fingernails with decorative colors, textures and shine. Some artificial nails are meant to appear as natural nails, while others are more extravagant and showy. One type of artificial nail is a tip, wherein a nail-shaped plate is glued onto the end of the natural nail. An acrylic substance is applied over the entire nail, forming a smooth surface elongating the natural nail. Another type of artificial nail is a form, wherein a nail plate covers the entire natural nail. The acrylic substance is then applied to the plate.

There are several known materials used to cover nails, including but not limited to acrylics. Polymethyl methacrylate acrylics are a mixture of a polymer powder and a liquid monomer, such as ethyl methacrylate. The powder is mixed with the liquid and hardens. The hardened acrylic can be buffed and shined, and the powders are available in a variety of colors and opaqueness. Gel nails or “UV Top Coat” nails are formed by a three step process, wherein an adhesive substrate is laid onto the natural nail, the pigmented gel composition is layered and cured by UV light, and then a top coat is applied for protection. Other available materials include fiberglass or “silk wraps”, wherein strips of fiberglass or silk are sealed onto the nail with glue or other resin type substance. The material strips protect against broken nails and against further damage. Combinations of these different materials are also possible, and decorative effects can be accomplished, such as the French manicure effect or glitter and sparkle effects.

Gel nails are known for looking glossy, yet natural. Gel nails can be cured with UV light faster than the acrylic nails, and gel nails avoid the fumes of chemicals from the acrylic nail application. However, gel nails are more complicated to apply. There are multiple steps and more equipment, such as the base adhesive layer and top coat and the UV light to cure the pigment gel layer. Gel nails can be more fragile and susceptible to wear and tear. Damage to gel nails result in possible shattering, and gel nails may need to be filed off for repair. With the more complex steps, the costs of gel nails may be higher than the other materials.

Nail kits for home use and professional manicurist use are available. The kits include the materials to apply the artificial nail in a convenient and easily organized and transportable manner. Various patents have issued in the field of nail kits. U.S. Pat. No. 6,742,526, issued to Riester on Jun. 1, 2004, describes a nail designer kit for holding and manipulating artificial fingernails while being polished or decorated. The kit includes a container and a plurality of design sticks. Artificial fingernails are mounted on the design sticks, and each stick can be individually handled for application of the nail composition. The kit includes storage for the chemicals and solvents used in artificial nail applications.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,813,415, issued to Slali on Sep. 29, 1998, describes a storage kit for nail easel detailing and for preparing artificial fingernails. The kit includes a container with a lid and a removable easel. The easel can be positioned at different angles and levels to facilitate the application of the nail composition to the artificial fingernails. There is a storage compartment for nail composition supplies.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,778,901, issued to Abrahamian on Jul. 14, 1998, discloses a nail polish kit for mixing nail polish. Individuals use this kit to formulate a nail polish of a particular color. The kit includes the solvents, pigments, and mixers to create the polish. There are bottles of solutions, tools and utensils, mixing cups and application brushes. The mixing implements and the raw materials are contained in the kit.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,645,090, issued to Juhl, et al. on Jul. 8, 1997, discloses a kit for applying nail polish to the tip of a nail. The kit is for the tip style of artificial nail, with a particular application for creating the French manicure effect. The kit includes a device to removably engage around a finger tip to establish a line of demarcation that approximates the curve of the tip of the finger nail, a container of nail polish, and an applicator for the polish. The chemical ingredients and mechanical tools are included in the kit.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,440,181, issued to Scherer on Apr. 3, 1984, discloses another prior art nail polish remover kit for removing nail polish from fingers and toenails. The kit includes a jar containing a nail polish remover and saturated filler. The chemicals and brushes and mechanical tools are contained in the kit for easy access, organization and use.

It is an object of an embodiment of the present invention to provide a kit for artificial gel nails with a one-step application process.

It is an object of an embodiment of the present invention to provide a kit for artificial gel nails with light fixture for curing the gel composition.

It is an object of an embodiment of the present invention to provide a kit for artificial gel nails with a light emitting diode (LED) light fixture.

It is an object of an embodiment of the present invention to provide a kit for artificial gel nails with a light module including a visual display.

It is an object of an embodiment of the present invention to provide a kit for artificial gel nails with a light module with an interactive user interface.

It is an object of an embodiment of the present invention to provide a kit for artificial gel nails with a cleanser composition.

It is an object of an embodiment of the present invention to provide a kit for artificial gel nails with at least one detailing wand.

It is an object of an embodiment of the present invention to provide a kit for artificial gel nails with a removal composition.

It is an object of an embodiment of the present invention to provide a kit for artificial gel nails with a buffer stick.

These and other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from a reading of the attached specification.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a kit for artificial gel nails. The kit allows for the application of artificial gel nails for home use or for professional manicure use. The kit includes a housing, and a gel composition in a first container. The gel composition is applied to a natural nail in one step and removably placed in the housing. The kit also includes a means for curing the gel composition, which is comprised of a light source. In some embodiments, the light source includes LED lights. The means for curing can also include a fixture body with a hollow interior, top panel, and bottom panel. The light source is mounted in the top panel facing downward towards the bottom panel. A mirrored surface on the bottom panel can reflect the light source. In other embodiments, the means for curing includes an interactive interface with a visual display and/or a speaker. The interface can show indicators related to the light sources, such as time and brightness. The interface can play an audio recording of timed instructions for the application of the gel nail.

The kit also includes a cleanser composition in a second container and a removal composition in a third container, both removably placed in the housing. The cleanser is applied to remove waste material from the cured gel composition. After the waste material is removed, the gel nail can be buffed and shine for a final look. The removal composition can be applied to remove the gel nail from the natural nail. Embodiments also include a buffing stick and at least one detailing wand to be placed within the housing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the present invention, showing a kit for artificial gel nails.

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of another embodiment of the means for curing of the present invention showing a light source comprised of a fixture body and a mirrored surface and a template card.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring to FIG. 1, an embodiment of the kit 10 for artificial gel nails includes a housing 36, a gel composition 12, a means for curing 14 the gel composition on a natural nail, a cleanser composition 16, a removal composition 28, at least one buffing stick 30, and at least one detailing wand 32. The gel composition 12 is applied to a natural nail in one step and is stored in a first container. The cleanser composition 16 is applied to a cured nail for removal of waste materials and is stored in a second container. The removal composition 28 is applied to a cured nail for removal of the gel composition 12 and is stored in a third container. The containers are removably placed in the housing 36. FIG. 1 shows the housing 36 with an insert 38 to supporting the containers and the means for curing 14 in stable positions relative to each other. The insert 38 has various embodiments with different shapes to accommodate different containers, such as bottles and multi-packs of individual packets. The buffing stick 30 and the detailing wands 32 can also be removably placed in the housing 36. FIG. 1 shows the detailing wants 32 in a transparent sleeve 34, which separates the detailing wands 32 from the buffing stick 30.

The gel composition 12 is a composition for one step application. The prior art gel nail requires three steps: applying a base coat adhesive, curing the pigmented gel composition, and applying a top coat protective layer. Unlike the prior art, the gel composition 12 of the present invention is a one step application. The gel composition 12 is applied to the natural nail using a brush or other nail tool. A clean detailing wand 32 can be used to apply and manipulate the gel composition 12 on the nail.

FIG. 1 shows different containers for either or both of the cleanser composition 16 and the removal composition 28. The embodiment of FIG. 1 shows the cleanser composition 16 in a bottle as a second container and the removal composition 28 in individual packets as the third container. Various embodiments will show combinations of containers, such as separate packets for both the cleanser composition 16 and the removal composition 28.

Another feature of an embodiment of the present invention is the means for curing 14, which is comprised of a light source. FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a light source 24 with a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) lights 26. This light source 24 is one element of an embodiment of the means for curing 14. The light source 24 provides UV light to cure gel composition. A variety of configurations, brightness, and structures can be used to support the LED lights in the light source 24. FIG. 1 also shows LED lights 20 housed within the means for curing 14, shown as a module 15 with an interior and casing. These LED lights 20 perform the same function of curing the gel composition 12. FIG. 1 further shows the module 15 with a visual display 18 to show time, temperature, brightness and other conditions of the gel nail application. The visual display 18 communicates information to the individual to ensure proper application of the gel nail. The module 15 may also have an interactive interface 19 with a speaker 22. The speaker 22 provides auditory instructions, such as playing a timed script of the instructions and steps of the application process. The script can include timing reminders and light level reminders to ensure the proper application of the gel nail.

FIG. 1 also shows the cleanser composition 16 in a second container. A side effect of a one-step gel composition is waste material. The gel composition 12 includes adhesives and pigments together for the single application. The curing process activates and separates these individual components, creating a chemical byproduct. The byproduct creates a clouded or distorted visual effect. The cleaner composition 16 quickly and efficiently wipes away these byproducts as waste material. The cured gel composition can then be buffed and shined for the proper visual effect.

FIG. 2 shows another embodiment of the means for curing 114. There is still a light source 124 for exposing the gel composition 12 to UV radiation. The light source 124 of this embodiment is comprised of a plurality of light emitting diodes 120 emitting ultraviolent radiation for curing the gel composition 12. FIG. 2 also shows the embodiment of the means for curing 114 as a fixture body 140 and a mirrored surface 142. The fixture body 140 has a hollow interior 144, a top panel 146, a bottom panel 148, and detachable power cord 150. The hollow interior 144 is positioned between the top panel 146 and the bottom panel 146 so that a user can place hands within the fixture 140 for more concentrated exposure to the UV light. The hollow interior 144 is sized and shaped for inserting a hand or at least a fingertip into the fixture body 140.

The light emitting diodes 120 are set in a generally planar arrangement within the top panel 146, and the light emitting diodes 120 face downward toward the bottom panel 146. The top panel 146 is suspending above the bottom panel 148 with a generally curved shape. The mirrored surface 142 is mounted on the bottom panel 148 and oriented to face the light emitting diodes 120 within the top panel 146. When a user inserts the nail with the gel composition 12, the nail is exposed to the UV light from multiple directions to ensure proper curing of all surfaces. The mirrored surface 142 has a generally oblong shape corresponding to the arrangement of the light emitting diodes 120. The focused light on the nail in multiple directions is facilitated by the shape of the mirrored surface 142. Each light emitting diode 120 is reflected by at least a portion of the mirrored surface 142.

Although not shown the same as in FIG. 1, the embodiment of FIG. 2 may also include a visual display 118. The visual display 118 similarly shows indicators of features of the light source, such as on/off position, duration, and brightness. The visual display 118 is shown as housed on an end of the fixture body 140. Alternatively, the visual display 118 may be comprised of a screen on the front panel 152 of the fixture body 140, similar to FIG. 1 as well. The embodiment of FIG. 2 may also include a speaker (not shown) housed within the fixture body 140. The speaker connects to a memory storage means with audio output to be broadcast through the speaker. The speaker may be internal so that the speaker would not be viewable from a perspective view. Again, the embodiment in FIG. 2 may include this speaker to provide instructions and encouragement similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1.

The means for curing 14 of FIG. 1 and the front panel 152 of the fixture body 140 in FIG. 2 may also include an interactive interface 19 (shown only in FIG. 1). The interactive interface 19 can show indicators of features of the light source 24, 124, such as brightness and duration. There can be controls to adjust these features of the light source. The interactive interface 19 may also show indicators for features of the speaker 22, such as volume. The controls to adjust these features of the speaker can also be included in the interactive interface 19. FIG. 2 shows the simpler visual display 118 which can light, blink, or flash, but other embodiments of the interactive interface are within the scope of the present invention.

FIG. 2 also shows a template card 154 removably placed within the housing. The template card 154 allows a user to view the appearance of different cured nails on their own natural nail. The template card 154 is a demonstrative device to preview how a cured nail will appear when actually applied. A user can decide whether or not a particular color or appearance is suitable. The template card 154 is comprised of a rigid sheet of material 156 with a plurality of perforations 158 arranged on the rigid sheet 156. The perforations 158 have shapes corresponding to shapes of nails, generally a U-shaped cut into the rigid sheet 156. Each perforation 158 has a matching nail shape sample 160 of a different color or different appearance of a finished nail. A finger nail of the user can be inserted through the perforation 158 so the nail shape sample 160 aligns on the natural nail, allowing the user to view the corresponding appearance of the nail shape sample 160 on the actual natural nail. The simulation allows a user to better assess the appearance of the finished nail. In various embodiments, the material of the rigid sheet 156 is selected from a group consisting of paper, cardboard, laminated paper, and card stock.

The present invention provides a kit for artificial gel nails with a one-step application process. The one step process is easier and more convenient for home use and professional use. The kit also includes a light source for curing the gel composition. All of the mechanical equipment and tools are contained in a convenient and easy to access housing. The light source may be a light emitting diode (LED) light fixture or light module with a visual display to display the conditions of the nail application. Furthermore, the lighting fixture may include a speaker, which can broadcast instructions, timing information, and/or encouragement to the user. In some embodiment, there is an interactive user interface, which monitors and adjusts the light source or speaker. The visual and auditory cues will increase the proper application of the gel nail. The interactive interface allows the user to control brightness and duration of the light source and volume of the speaker output. The kit has a cleanser composition, which is needed for the one-step gel nail application. The gel composition is different from the prior art gel composition and requires a cleanser after curing to restore the visual effect of the gel nail. The removal composition, buffing stick and detailing wand are also elements for achieving the final lock of the cured nail.

The foregoing disclosure and description of the invention is illustrative and explanatory thereof. Various changes in the details of the described method can be made without departing from the true spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A kit for artificial gel nails, comprising: a housing;a gel composition, wherein said gel composition is applied to a natural nail in one step, said gel composition being stored in a first container, said first container being removably placed within said housing;a means for curing said gel composition on the natural nail, said means for curing being comprised of a light source, said gel composition being exposed to light generated by said means for curing, said means for curing being removably placed with said first container in said housing;a cleanser composition, wherein said cleanser composition is applied to a cured nail for removal of waste materials, said cleanser composition being held in a second container, said second container being removably placed within said housing;a removal composition, wherein said removal composition is applied to a cured nail for removal of said gel composition, said removal composition being held in a third container, said third container being removably placed within said housing;at least one buffing stick removably placed within said housing; andat least one detailing wand removably placed within said housing, said detailing wand being contained in a transparent sleeve, separate from said at least one buffing stick.

2. The kit for artificial gel nails, according to claim 1, wherein said gel composition is applied to the natural nail in a single layer by a brush.

3. The kit for artificial gel nails, according to claim 1, wherein said light source of said means for curing is comprised of a plurality of light emitting diodes, said light emitting diodes emitting ultraviolent radiation for curing said gel composition.

4. The kit for artificial gel nails, according to claim 3, wherein said means for curing further comprises: a fixture body with a hollow interior, a top panel, a bottom panel, and detachable power cord, said hollow interior being between said top panel and said bottom panel, said light emitting diodes being set in a generally planar arrangement within said top panel and facing downward toward said bottom panel; anda mirrored surface, mounted on said bottom panel and oriented to face said light emitting diodes within said top panel.

5. The kit for artificial gel nails, according to claim 4, said mirrored surface having a generally oblong shape corresponding to the arrangement of said light emitting diodes, wherein each light emitting diode is reflected by at least a portion of said mirrored surface.

6. The kit for artificial gel nails, according to claim 4, wherein said means for curing further comprises: a visual display, showing indicators of features of said light source, said visual display being housed on said fixture body.

7. The kit for artificial gel nails, according to claim 4, wherein said means for curing further comprises: an interactive interface showing indicators of features of said light source and having controls to adjust said features of said light source, said interactive interface being housed on said fixture body.

8. The kit for artificial gel nails, according to claim 4, wherein said means for curing further comprises: a speaker housed within said fixture body, said speaker being connected to a memory storage means with audio output to be broadcast through said speaker.

9. The kit for artificial gel nails, according to claim 8, wherein said means for curing further comprises: an interactive interface showing indicators of features of said light source and having controls to adjust said features of said light source and said speaker, said interactive interface being housed on said fixture body.

10. The kit for artificial gel nails, according to claim 1, wherein said second container is comprised of a plurality of individual packets.

11. The kit for artificial gel nails, according to claim 1, wherein said third container is comprised of a plurality of individual packets.

12. The kit for artificial gel nails, according to claim 1, further comprising: a template card removably placed within said housing, said template card being comprised of a rigid sheet of material with a plurality of perforations arranged on said rigid sheet, said perforations having a generally U-shape, corresponding to a shape of a nail, each perforation corresponding to a nail sample of a different color.

13. The kit for artificial gel nails, according to claim 12, wherein said material is selected from a group consisting of paper, cardboard, laminated paper, and card stock.

14. The kit for artificial gel nails, according to claim 1, further comprising: an insert removably placed within said housing, said insert supporting the containers and said means for curing in stable positions relative to each other.

15. A kit for artificial gel nails, comprising: a housing;a gel composition, wherein said gel composition is applied to a natural nail in one step, said gel composition being stored in a first container, said first container being removably placed within said housing;a means for curing said gel composition on the natural nail, said means for curing being comprised of a light source, said gel composition being exposed to light generated by said means for curing, said means for curing being removably placed with said first container in said housing,wherein said means for curing comprises: a fixture body with a hollow interior, a top panel, a bottom panel, and detachable power cord, said hollow interior being between said top panel and said bottom panel, said light source being set within said top panel and facing downward toward said bottom panel; anda mirrored surface, mounted on said bottom panel and oriented to face said light emitting diodes within said top panel;a cleanser composition, wherein said cleanser composition is applied to a cured nail for removal of waste materials, said cleanser composition being held in a second container, said second container being placed within said housing;a removal composition, wherein said removal composition is applied to a cured nail for removal of said gel composition, said removal composition being held in a third container, said third container being placed within said housing;at least one buffing stick removably placed within said housing; andat least one detailing wand removably placed within said housing, said detailing wand being contained in a transparent sleeve, separate from said at least one buffing stick.

16. The kit for artificial gel nails, according to claim 15, wherein said light source of said means for curing is comprised of a plurality of light emitting diodes, said light emitting diodes emitting ultraviolent radiation for curing said gel composition.

17. The kit for artificial gel nails, according to claim 15, said mirrored surface having a generally oblong shape corresponding to placement of said light source, wherein said light source is reflected by at least a portion of said mirrored surface.

18. The kit for artificial gel nails, according to claim 15, wherein said means for curing further comprises: a visual display, showing indicators of features of said light source, said visual display being housed on said fixture body; andan interactive interface, showing indicators of features of said light source and having controls to adjust said features of said light source, said interactive interface being housed on said fixture body.

19. The kit for artificial gel nails, according to claim 15, wherein said means for curing further comprises: a speaker housed within said fixture body, said speaker being connected to a memory storage means with audio output to be broadcast through said speaker; andan interactive interface, showing indicators of features of said light source and having controls to adjust said features of said light source and said speaker, said interactive interface being housed on said fixture body.

20. The kit for artificial gel nails, according to claim 1, wherein said second container is comprised of a plurality of individual cleanser packets, and wherein said third container is comprised of a plurality of individual removal packets.