MAKEUP APPLICATOR

TECHNICAL FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to a makeup applicator, and more specifically to an eye makeup applicator.

Applying makeup can be difficult, at best, especially when applying eye make-up, such as eyeliner. Eyeliner can be applied with a pencil or with a brush, which is dipped into a gel, ink mousse, pressed powder, or some other cosmetic pigment formulation. Eye shadow or eyebrow makeup is typically applied using a brush.

For eyeliner, the goal for some people is to create a smooth thin line with consistent color that tapers off smoothly at the ends. Others may want a thicker, more diffused line, but nevertheless with smooth transitions. Similar challenges occur with applying eye shadow where the goal may be to create a region of color around the eye with a varying degree of intensity across the region so that it fades out at the edges.

Regardless of the method or goal, it can be difficult to produce an even and clean application. You need a steady hand, good hand and eye coordination, and also good eyesight. The more practice and experience that you have, the better your technique and the better your results. Even for the more experienced people, it can be messy and time consuming.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly an eye makeup applicator is disclosed that is easy to use and can apply a perfect line or region of color.

In one embodiment, a makeup applicator includes a base and a head. The head includes a resilient body formed from a resilient material, which body has an applicator surface to receive makeup to form a mark on the person's skin, for example, on the area around the person's eye by pressing the head onto the person's skin. For example, a suitable resilient material includes materials that can absorb at least some of the makeup.

In another embodiment, a makeup applicator includes a base and a head. The head includes a body that forms a surface that is adapted to receive an application of makeup that is shaped for direct application onto a person's skin by pressing the application onto the person's skin.

In another embodiment, the makeup applicator includes a base and a head. The head includes a body that forms a surface that is adapted to deliver an application of makeup by rolling the applicator onto a person's skin.

In one aspect, in any of the above, the body may comprise a foam or sponge body. The foam or sponge body may utilize nitrile butadiene rubber (“NBR”) or rubicell materials.

In one aspect the head may comprise bristles configured to apply the makeup to a person's skin.

In any of the above, the applicator surface may be a rubber-like wheel.

In another aspect, in any of the above, the applicator surface comprises a smooth applicator surface. Alternately, the applicator surface may include at least a region with a non-smooth surface, such as a surface with a plurality of recesses or projections. The recesses or projections may have uniform depths or heights and be uniformly spaced or may have varied depths or heights or varied spacing between the recesses or projections to create a mark that appears to fade or to create a feathered look.

In a further aspect, in any of the above, the body may be adapted to be reconfigurable so that a user may alter the shape of the applicator surface. For example, the body may comprise a resilient body that is pliable and/or that exhibits plastic properties. The pliable or plastic properties may be provided by the material forming the body itself or may be formed by a plastic or metal insert, such as a wire, that allows the body to be reconfigured. For example, the insert may be molded with or inserted into the body.

Accordingly to yet another aspect, in any of the above, the applicator surface may be configured to form a defined shape, such as a line or area, such as generally triangular shaped area, for example, for applying eye shadow.

In yet another form, in any of the above, the head may be releasably mounted to the handle.

In one form, the handle may be adapted to hold a supply of makeup for dispensing from the head.

In other aspects, the head may include foam or sponge body that is has an applicator surface to receive an application or deposit of makeup, with the surface having a varying surface topology so that the application of makeup varies across its surface. For example, the applicator surface may include a plurality of raised portions, such as bumps, or recesses.

According to yet another embodiment, a kit is provided that includes an applicator handle and a plurality of applicator heads, which are each adapted to releasably mount to the handle. Each head is configured to hold an application of makeup in a shape that can then be simply pressed on to a person's skin to form a mark.

In one aspect, the head is configured so that it can be dragged or moved to create, for example, a smudge—to create a different kind of effect.

In one aspect, in any of the above, the applicator may include a handle to which heads are mounted on either end.

In one aspect, in any of the above, the applicator may include a primary handle with a primary head and an auxiliary handle having an auxiliary head attached to the primary handle.

According to another embodiment, an eye makeup brush includes a handle, a ferrule, and a brush head. The ferrule has a first side and a second side disposed at an acute angle relative to one another such that the sides are arranged in a substantially V-shape. The brush head includes a plurality of bristles having first ends secured within the ferrule and opposite second ends defining an applicator surface, the bristles extending axially from the ferrule. The shape of the brush head is V-shape as defined by the ferrule. The applicator surface is adapted to receive a supply of eye makeup and to form an eye makeup shape for direct application onto a person's skin by pressing the applicator surface of the brush head onto the person's skin and thereby forming a mark on the person's skin.

In one aspect, the eye makeup brush includes a second ferrule and a smudger brush attached to the second end of the handle. The smudger brush includes a plurality of bristles having first ends secured within the second ferrule and opposite second ends defining a smudging end. The smudger brush is adapted to smudge the applied eye makeup.

In another aspect, the first and second sides of the first ferrule are disposed at an angle relative to one another, the angle measuring between one of: 60 and 89 degrees, between 65 and 85 degrees, and between 70 and 80 degrees.

In another aspect, the angle measures approximately 75 degrees.

According to yet another embodiment, a method of applying eye makeup using an eye makeup brush is disclosed. The method includes applying eye makeup to an applicator surface of a brush head of the eye makeup brush, aligning the applicator surface with an outside edge of a person's eye, aligning a lower edge of the brush head along the lower eye, pressing the applicator surface of the brush head onto the person's skin, and forming a mark of eye makeup on the person's skin, wherein the mark of eye makeup is reflective of the shape of the brush head.

In another aspect, the method further includes dragging the applied eye makeup inward along both the person's upper lash line and lower lash line using a smudging end of a smudger brush of the eye makeup brush. This blends the applied eye makeup from a concentrated application at the outer corner of the person's eye to a faded application over the person's pupil.

According to yet another embodiment, a method of applying eye makeup using an eye makeup brush is disclosed. The method includes forming a mark of eye makeup on the person's skin by aligning a lower edge of the brush head at a corner of the eye. The applied eye makeup is dragged inward along the person's upper lash line using the smudging end of the smudger brush. Then, the applied eye makeup is filled inward toward the eye, using the mark of the eye makeup as a guide.

Before the embodiments are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the details of operation or to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention may be implemented in various other embodiments and of being practiced or being carried out in alternative ways not expressly disclosed herein. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including” and “comprising” and variations thereof is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items and equivalents thereof. Further, enumeration may be used in the description of various embodiments. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the use of enumeration should not be construed as limiting the invention to any specific order or number of components. Nor should the use of enumeration be construed as excluding from the scope of the invention any additional steps or components that might be combined with or into the enumerated steps or components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of an eye makeup applicator;

FIG. 1A is a cross-section taken through the head of FIG. 1 illustrating the body and base of the head of the applicator;

FIG. 1B is similar view to FIG. 1A illustrating another embodiment of the head body and base;

FIG. 1C is similar view to FIG. 1A illustrating a third embodiment of the head body and base;

FIG. 1D is similar view to FIG. 1A illustrating a third embodiment of the head body and base;

FIG. 1E is a cross-section taken through the handle of FIG. 1;

FIG. 1F is side view of another embodiment of the handle;

FIG. 1G is side view of a second embodiment of the handle;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of an eye makeup applicator;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of an eye makeup applicator;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of an eye makeup applicator;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of an eye makeup applicator;

FIG. 6 is a similar view to FIG. 1 illustrating another cross-section of a head of an applicator;

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a kit;

FIG. 8 is another embodiment of a kit of applicator;

FIG. 9 is a second third embodiment of a kit;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a makeup applicator;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the applicator of FIG. 10 with a cover mounted about the applicator head;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the cover shown in FIG. 10 in opened configuration;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a kit;

FIG. 14 is a side view of a sixth embodiment of an eye makeup applicator;

FIG. 15 is a side view of a seventh embodiment of an eye makeup application;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of an eye makeup applicator;

FIG. 17A is a side view of an additional embodiment of an eye makeup applicator;

FIG. 17 B is a perspective view of an additional embodiment of an eye makeup applicator;

FIG. 17C is a perspective view of an additional embodiment of an eye makeup applicator;

FIG. 18 is a schematic drawing of a dual use eye makeup applicator;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a dual use eye makeup applicator;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an eye makeup applicator with an auxiliary handle and head;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an eye makeup applicator with an auxiliary handle and head;

FIG. 22A is a front view of another embodiment of an eye makeup applicator;

FIG. 22B is a perspective view of an applicator head for eye makeup;

FIG. 22C is a top view of a mark left by the applicator head of either FIG. 22A or FIG. 22B;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of additional embodiment of an eye makeup brush;

FIG. 24A is a partial end perspective view of the eye makeup brush of FIG. 23;

FIG. 24B is a side view of the eye makeup brush of FIG. 23;

FIG. 24C is a left end view of the eye makeup brush of FIG. 23;

FIG. 24D is an opposite side view of the eye makeup brush of FIG. 23;

FIG. 24E is a right end view of the eye makeup brush of FIG. 23;

FIG. 24F is a top plan view of the eye makeup brush of FIG. 23;

FIG. 24G is a lower plan view of the eye makeup brush of FIG. 23;

FIG. 25A is an illustration depicting using a brush head of the eye makeup brush to apply eye makeup to a person's eye in a classic application;

FIG. 25B is an illustration depicting using a smudger brush of the eye makeup brush to apply eye makeup to a person's eye;

FIG. 25C is an illustration depicting a classic application of eye makeup;

FIG. 26A is an illustration depicting using a brush head of the eye makeup brush to apply eye makeup to a person's eye in a smoky cat eye application;

FIG. 26B is an illustration depicting using a smudger brush of the eye makeup brush to apply eye makeup to a person's eye; and

FIG. 26C is an illustration depicting a smoky cat eye application of eye makeup.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring to FIG. 1, the numeral 10 generally designates a first embodiment of a makeup applicator. As will be more fully described below, applicator 10 is adapted to apply makeup to person's skin, such as around the eye, by simply, at least initially, pressing the applicator head and makeup supported thereon on the person's skin to form a mark in a defined shape, for example, in the shape of a line or an area. The term “line” is used herein to refer to a shape that is characterized by its length and slenderness, e.g. a shape that is longer than it is wide by a multiplier of at least 5. Furthermore, the applicator may be adapted so that it can be reconfigured to change the shape of the mark to suit the individual user's taste.

As best seen in FIG. 1, applicator 10 includes a head 12 and a handle 14. Head 12 includes an applicator surface 12a that is configured to receive and hold an application of makeup in a preformed shape that can then be applied by simply pressing on a person's skin to form a mark, such as a colored line or area. The makeup may comprise liquid makeup, gel makeup, powder makeup, or a film of makeup or another cosmetic formulation containing pigment that can be applied to head 12. To hold the makeup, head 12 may include an absorbent, resilient body 16, for example a foam (such as a closed cell foam rubber) or sponge body that forms applicator surface 12a. Surface 12a is configured in a shape to form the desired shape of the makeup as it is applied to the person's skin. Body 16, as noted, is formed from a material that may absorb at least some of the makeup and/or hold the makeup in a shape so that the makeup can then be pressed on the person's skin to create, for example, an eye line or eyebrow line or eye shadow.

Suitable materials for forming body 16 include materials that are used to form cosmetic sponges sold under the trademarks Yukilon, Tera, Flocked Yukilon Grace, New Tera Venus, Flocked Tera Venus, Black Yukilon Crayon, and Yukilon Grace. It should be understood that other resilient materials may be used. Further, the desired shape may vary and comprise an elongated thin region or line with a uniform thickness or comprise a tapered line with a decreasing thickness along its length. The line may be curved, including a line with a compound curve or curves. The makeup may be pressed onto, wiped on, sprayed on or rolled on body 16. Or the body may be dipped into the makeup. Further, the makeup may be formed from a film, which is supported on the body.

In the illustrated embodiment, body 16 forms a smooth applicator surface and is configured to form a natural looking line for applying makeup on the eyelid of the user adjacent the eyelashes to form an eyeliner. However as described below, the body may be configured to form other shapes.

As best shown in FIG. 1A, body 16 may be mounted to a base 22, which is either rigidly attached to the handle, such as by an adhesive, a weld, or molding, or may be releasably mounted to the handle, as described below. Base 22 may comprise plastic, wood, metal, or a composite material or another foam or sponge that is more rigid than the foam or sponge forming body 16, which provides sufficient rigidity to body 16 so that body 16 can then be employed as described above and below. Base 22 may be mounted to body 16 by an adhesive or molded with the body, for example, by co-injection molding, and then secured to the handle, as noted above and described in more detail below. Although not shown, base 22 may include either one or more recesses and/or projections into which or about which body 16 may be molded to thereby form a mechanical coupling between body 16 and base 22. Further, base 22 may be releasably coupled to body 16 to allow just the body to be replaced, if desired. For example, body 16 may be press fit into a recess formed in base 22 or vice versa (e.g., the base may be press fit into a recess formed in body 16 as noted below).

When formed from plastic, wood, metal or a composite material, base 22 may include a threaded opening to receive a threaded end of the handle or may include an opening which forms a snap fit connection with the top of the handle. Optionally, the opening may have two or more recesses formed in the material surrounding the opening to form a detent mechanism. For example, the end of the handle may support a pair of spring arms that are depressed when the handle is inserted into the opening but when aligned with the recesses spring out to engage the base to thereby form a spring released coupling between the handle and the head. The arms may include ramps which when sufficient force is applied the handle or the head cause the spring arms to disengage and allow the head to be removed from the handle (or vice versa).

Referring to FIG. 1B, in another embodiment, head 12′ may include a body 16′ which is formed with a recess into which base 22′ may be inserted and then joined with the body by an adhesive or just by a friction fit connection. Alternately, body 16′ may be molded over base 22′ or co-injection molded with base 22′. Further, in a similar manner to as noted above, base 22′ may be formed from a plastic, wood, metal, or composite material, or a more rigid foam or sponge, which provides sufficient rigidity to body 16 so that body 16 can then be employed as described above and below. Similarly, base 22′ may be rigidly attached to the handle, such as by an adhesive, by a weld, or molding, or also may be releasably mounted to the handle, such as described above.

As best seen in FIG. 1C, head 12″ may be formed almost entirely by a foam or sponge body 16″ with a smaller base 22″, which may be in the form plastic, wood, metal, or a composite material body or another foam or sponge body that is formed with body 16″, such as by molding, and which provides sufficient rigidity to mount body 16″ to the handle as described above.

Referring to FIG. 1D, head 12′″ is similar to head 12′ with a foam or sponge body 16′″ mounted to a base 22a, but with base 22a including or joined with a coupler 22b that extends below base 22a for coupling head 12′″ to the handle. Coupler 22b may comprise a threaded collar or may similarly receive the top of the handle to form a friction fit or mechanical coupling with the handle, as described above. Alternately, coupler 22b may extend into and be received in a bore formed in the top of the handle, also with a friction fit or mechanical coupling similar to those described above.

Referring now to FIG. 22A, the applicator 1610 may include a head 1612 of bristles 1630 with attached ends 1632 and applicator ends 1634 opposite the attached ends 1632. The attached ends 1632 may be attached to a base 1622 on a handle 1614. The bristles may be formed from any suitable natural or synthetic fiber and may be arranged in any number of different configurations. For example, as shown in FIG. 22A, the bristles 1630 may be arranged in a “V-shape” and the applicator ends 1634 are available to receive and hold an application of makeup in the preformed shape (e.g., the V-shape of FIG. 22A) that can be applied by pressing the applicator ends 1634 of the bristles 1630 on a persons' skin to form a mark.

Alternatively, the head 1612a may be independent of a handle. For example the head 1612a shown in FIG. 22B includes bristles 1630a with attached ends 1632a and applicator ends 1634a. The attached ends 1632a may be attached to a base 1622a which can be attached to a handle as desired. The mark 1640, shown in FIG. 22C, provided by the head 1612, 1612a as shown in FIGS. 22A and 22B is reflective of the configuration of the bristles 1630, 1630a.

Referring again to FIG. 1, handle 14 may comprise a cylindrical body 18. Optionally as described below, head 12 may be removably mounted to handle 14 to allow a user to replace the head, for example, with another or similar head. In the illustrated embodiment, the cylindrical body 18 comprises a straight cylindrical body and may be hollow or solid. Alternately, handle 14 may comprise a curved cylindrical body or nonlinear cylindrical body to facilitate proper placement of the head on the eyelid. The handle may be adjustable and/or may incorporate, for example, sliding or telescoping members to adjust its length.

For example, referring to FIG. 1E, cylindrical body 18 may comprise a reinforced body, including a reinforced elastomer body so that handle 14 can be bent to allow the handle to be reconfigured to adjust the position of the head to suit the user. As best seen in FIG. 1E, body 18 may have a reinforcement member, such as a metal wire 26, which allows body 18 to be bent but will retain its shape until it is reformed into another shape or returned to its original shape.

Referring to FIG. 1F, handle 14′ may be formed from rigid material, such as plastic, wood, metal, or a composite material, and optionally includes one or more joints 30 that allow for articulation of one more sections of handle 14. Further, joint or joints 30 allow articulation of one or more sections of the handle about one or more axes so that the handle to be reconfigured to adjust the position of the head. In addition, handle 14′ may incorporate a gripping surface 32 about its lower end, which can facilitate the use of applicator 10.

As best seen in FIG. 1G, handle 14″ is formed from two telescoping members 18a, 18b so that, as noted, the length of the handle can be adjusted to simplify storage, such as described below. The two members may have a friction fit so that the length may be adjusted by simply pulling on the two members and thereby provide infinite positioning between the maximum and minimum lengths of the handle (with stops defining the minimum or maximum length) or may provide discrete positions defined by one or more detent mechanism formed between the two members.

Further, the head (e.g. head 12) may be adjustable so that the orientation of the head may be adjusted. For example, head 12 may be mounted by a ball and socket connection, which are biased into engagement, for example, by a spring to provide multi axis pivoting for adjustment. In this manner, the position of the head may be adjusted by simply providing sufficient force to overcome the biasing force so that the head can be pivoted until the force is removed. Optionally, the position of the head may be biased by the surfaces of the ball or socket. For example, the ball or socket may have discrete raised surfaces and the other may have corresponding discrete recesses, which when aligned define the position of the head. In a similar manner, the position of the head may be adjusted by simply providing sufficient force to dislodge the raised surfaces from the recesses. Once moved out of alignment, continued force (typically smaller force) must be applied to move the head (to overcome the friction) until the raised surfaces once again align with another set of recesses. It should be understood that a single raised surface may be used in combination with two recesses to define two discrete positions.

Alternately, rather than holding or absorbing the makeup like a stamp, head 12 may be configured as a dispenser. For example, head 12 may be configured to hold a plurality of makeup layers that exhibit adhesive properties on their top sides, so that when the topmost layer is applied to the person's skin, the next layer will be ready for application.

In each case, the applicator may have a cover that snaps on, for example, to the sides of the head or slides on, for example, into grooves formed on the sides of the head to project the head and/or makeup applied thereto.

As noted above, the shape of the head or body may be varied. Referring to FIG. 2, applicator 110, which is similar to applicator 10, includes a head 112 mounted to handle 14, with the head having a body 116 that is shaped to form a more curved line to create a “cat eye look”. It should be understood, that in addition to applying line to the eyelid, applicator may be used to apply a line to enhance or form an eyebrow.

In addition to applying a line of makeup to form eyeliner or to fill in an eyebrow, the applicator may also apply a larger area of makeup as noted, for example, to apply eye shadow. Referring to FIGS. 3-5, makeup applicators 210, 310 and 410 each include a larger head 212, 312, and 412, which are each supported on a handle, such as handle 14 described above. For examples of the handle and how the head may be mounted, reference is made to the above descriptions.

As best seen in FIG. 3, head 212 may be similarly formed from a foam or sponge body, which forms the applicator surface 212a. The size and shape of surface 212a may be varied but is optionally sized to cover at least a portion of the eyelid for applying eye shadow. Again, the makeup applied to surface 212a may be powder makeup, a liquid makeup, gel makeup, or a layer of makeup. Optionally, applicator surface 212a may have a non-smooth surface or a surface with a varied surface topology so that the application of makeup varies in density across its surface to create a faded or feathered look. For example, the surface may include, as shown, a plurality of raised portions, such as bumps. The uneven surface allows the surface to hold more makeup between the raised portions than on the raised portions so that it creates variation or some contrast in the applied makeup. The size (e.g. height or width) and/or spacing of the bumps may vary to increase or decrease the amount of makeup held between the bumps, for example. Alternately, recesses can be used.

Optionally, as shown in reference to applicator 310, head 312 may similarly include a plurality of raised portions, such as bumps, with spacing between the raised portions varying across the length of the head 312 and optionally terminating before the end of the head 312. Further, the size of the raised portions may vary. For example, as viewed in FIG. 4, the raised portions on the left side of head 312 may be larger or taller than the raised portions in the central portion of the head 312 to further vary the amount of applied makeup, which for example can create a smudge affect. For example, head 312 may be configured to form an inner blurred region of makeup, while head 412 illustrated in FIG. 5B is configured to form an outer blurred region of makeup. As would be understood by those will skilled in the art, different eye shapes need different makeup application to enhance the eyes. For example, closer set eyes are typically enhanced by applying an outer blurred region of eye shadow, while wider set eyes are typically enhanced applying an inner blurred region of eye shadow.

Alternately, as noted, in lieu of raised portions, the bodies of heads 212, 312, 412 may have recesses, for example, which may be formed by the pores of an open cell foam, with the openings or pores in the foam creating the same effect as the space between the raised portions described above. In addition, the applicator body may be formed from two different materials, with one material optionally comprising an open cell foam to form the varying surface topology, and the other formed from a closed cell foam to form a smooth applicator surface.

Similar to applicators 10 and 110, applicators 210, 310, 410 may also be configured as dispensers, which can support layers of makeup.

It should be understood further that each of the heads (12, 12′, 12″, 12′″, 112, 212, 312, 412) may be formed from a single body of material or maybe formed from multiple bodies, for example of foam or sponge, that together form the applicator surface. In addition, as shown in FIG. 6, when any of the heads are formed from a foam or sponge body, the body may be configured so that it can be reconfigured and hold it shape. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, body 16 may incorporate a plastic or metal member, such as wire 20, that allows the shape of the body to be adjusted, for example, by bending or twisting. In this manner the user may adjust the shape of the body to suit their tastes or to suit their eye shape. In addition, each head (12, 12′, 12″, 12′″, 112, 212, 312, 412) may have a body with a thickness extending up from its respective base (from its underside) and an applicator surface with a lateral or longitudinal expanse that is greater than its thickness. In this manner, the applicator surface provides a surface with sufficient expanse to form the intended makeup shape—whether that is a line, including a curved line, a tapered line etc. or an area sufficient to apply eye shadow on at least apportion of the users eyelid with a simple pressing motion, like a stamp. Though it should be understood that after the makeup is “stamped” on the person's skin, the applicator may then be used to (e.g., dragged) smear or smudge the mark that is applied.

Referring to FIG. 7, as noted above, the heads of the applicators described above may be removably mounted to handles. For example, a kit 510 may be provided that includes a handle 14 and a head 412, as well as alternate or replacement heads, such as heads 12, 112, 212, and 312. For example, body 416 of head 412 may be mounted to a base 412b that is configured to releasably mount to handle 14, for example, by friction or by a mechanical coupling, such as described above. In this manner, the applicator may be used to apply eye liner or eye shadow using the same applicator handle. Further as best seen in FIGS. 8 and 9, the applicator may be disassembled for placement in a case, which may include makeup in the case. Further shown in FIG. 9, the case may be configured with several compartments for storing multiple heads, e.g. one or more set of left and right heads.

Referring to FIG. 10, the applicator 610 generally designates yet another embodiment of a makeup applicator. Applicator 610 includes a handle 614 and a head 612, which is similar to the previous embodiments. For general details of optional heads, reference is made to the description above. In this embodiment, the applicator itself is configured to store makeup, which is then dispensed from the head.

In the illustrated embodiment, handle 614 comprises a hollow cylindrical body 618, which forms a chamber 620 for holding a fluid-based makeup, e.g. a liquid makeup or gel makeup, or for holding a cartridge holding a fluid-based makeup. Chamber 620 (or cartridge) includes an outlet 624 through which the makeup can flow to head 612. For example, as described above, head 612 may include a hollow base 622 with which outlet 624 is in fluid communication and through which the makeup may flow into the head. Given the porous nature of the head (e.g., when the head includes a foam or sponge body), the head may act like a wick to draw the makeup into the head. Alternately, the makeup may be applied by pressing or pushing the makeup into the head as noted below.

Optionally, base 622 may extend into or be adjacent a lower surface of the portion of body 616 that forms the applicator surface. In this manner, the makeup can flow from the chamber or cartridge through the outlet into the base and then into the body so that when the head is pressed against a user's skin at least part of the makeup will then be transferred onto the person's skin. Depending on the makeup's viscosity and the porosity of the material forming body 616, body 616 may be saturated with the makeup or only partially saturated with the makeup.

In addition, the chamber or cartridge may include a valve to control the flow of makeup from the chamber or cartridge to the head. For example, the valve may be actuated to open simply from pressure applied to the valve, for example from the head when pressed on the user's skin or direct pressure from the user, for example by way of a trigger on the side of the handle, for example. In this manner, when the applicator is not in use the valve will remain closed, which could preserve the life of the makeup in the chamber or cartridge. Optionally, a secondary or charging chamber may be provided between the valve and the head, so that when the valve is open, the makeup will flow into the charging chamber and thereafter be configured to close to limit the amount of fluid flowing into the head.

The handle may be formed from a rigid material or a flexible material, or at least have one or more regions formed from a flexible material, so that a user may press on the flexible portion(s) to increase the pressure in the chamber to facilitate the flow of the makeup from the handle into the head.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, applicator 610 may optionally include a cover or cap 640 that extends over the head and about the base of the head and further couples to handle 614, for example, by a snap fit or friction coupling. In the illustrated embodiment, cover 640 is formed from a clamshell configuration with two halves 642 and 644, which may be connected by a living hinge 646. This allows the two halves to be opened or closed by simply unfolding or folding the two halves. For example, the facing surfaces of the two halves of the cover may include detent mechanisms or snap fit connections, which join the two halves together by simply applying pressure, which can then be opened simply by pulling the two halves apart. Suitable materials for forming the cover include plastics or lightweight metals.

As best seen in FIG. 12, each half 642, 644 includes a semi-cylindrical body 648, 650 and an intersecting semi-cylindrical body 652, 654 to form a T-shaped recess. The semi-cylindrical bodies 648 and 650 are generally the same size and sized to extend over and once joined cover the head of the applicator. Similarly, semi-cylindrical bodies 652, 654 are generally the same size and sized to extend over and once joined enclose the end of the handle about the base of the applicator head. Semi-cylindrical bodies 652, 654 have closed ends 648a and 650a, respectively, to thereby enclose the heads and protect them from drying out. Semi-cylindrical bodies 652 and 654 each have open ends and are size to extend around handle 614 with a close, if not tight, fit so that when cover 640 is properly mounted on the applicator, it will protect the head from damage and also from drying out.

Referring to FIG. 13, the numeral 710 generally designates another kit which is adapted for holding the applicator and optional heads described above in reference to applicator 610, which includes a case with multiple compartments for holding handle 614 and two smaller compartments for holding two more pairs of heads (left and right heads).

As an alternative, to the applicator heads described relative to FIGS. 1-5, the applicator may include an applicator head that is a convex shape to allow the makeup to be gently stamped or pressed onto the skin and then applied in a rolling or rocking manner. For example, as shown in FIG. 14, the applicator 810 may include a wheel head 812 rotatably coupled to a handle 814 by a shaft 820 at a central axis 820a of the wheel head 812. The wheel head 812 may include an applicator surface 812a and a body 816 formed from a material suitable cosmetic application, such as the sponges or foams described above. The body 816 may be annular and mounted on a rigid base 822, which is then mounted to handle 814 by shaft 820.

The makeup may be pressed onto, wiped on, sprayed on or rolled on the applicator surface 812a and then transferred to a person's skin by grasping the handle 814, placing the applicator surface 812a on the skin, and linearly moving the applicator 810. The wheel head 812 rotates about the axis 820a as the applicator 810 is moved and makeup is rolled onto the desired location of the skin.

Rather than having a handle, an applicator may include a ring for holding the applicator. As shown in FIG. 15, the applicator 910 may include a wheel head 912, with an applicator surface 912a, coupled to a ring 914. For example, the ring 914 may be formed from an open C-shaped spring clip that allows the ring 914 to be mounted on fingers of different sizes and also allows the ring 914 to be quickly and easily mounted to a user's finger.

Wheel head 912 may be mounted to ring 914 by a U-shaped cover 922 and rotatably mounted to cover 922 by a shaft 920 about an axis 920a of the wheel head 912. A user may apply the makeup of the applicator surface 912a to the skin in a manner similar to that described with respect to the applicator 810 shown in FIG. 14, by grasping the ring 914 or placing the ring 914 on a finger and contacting the wheel head or the skin moving the applicator 910 over the skin to transfer the makeup from the roller onto the skin. The cover 922 may provide a barrier between the wheel head 912 and the finger ring 914 to prevent the makeup of the wheel head 912 from being inadvertently applied to the hand or fingers of the user.

Similarly, the applicator may have a fixed convex shape to allow the makeup to be gently stamped or pressed onto the skin and then applied in a rocking manner. For example, as shown in FIG. 16, the applicator 1010 may include a head 1012 with an applicator surface 1012a and a base 1022. The base 1022 may be coupled to a ring 1014. A user may apply the makeup of the applicator surface 1012a to the skin by grasping the ring 1014 and contacting the applicator surface 1012a to the skin to press or stamp on an initial amount of makeup. The then applicator 1010 may be rocked or rolled from side to side to provide additional makeup coverage.

Referring to FIG. 17A, in an alternate embodiment, the applicator 1110 may include a head 1112 with an applicator surface 1112a and a base 1122. The base 1122 may be coupled to a handle 1114. A user may apply the makeup of the applicator surface 1112a to the skin by grasping handle 1114 and contacting the applicator surface 1112a to the skin to press or stamp on an initial amount of makeup. The then applicator 1110 may be rocked or rolled from side to side to provide additional makeup coverage similar to the previous embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 17B, the applicator 1110′ may have a head 1112′ with an applicator surface 1112a′ of a specific shape such as, for example, a shape that would allow of the application of different marks in the corners of the eye of a user. The applicator surface 1112a′ may include two ends 1113a and 1113b. In FIG. 17B one end 1113a includes a solid surface for the application of a mark to a person's skin while the opposite end 1113b of the applicator surface 1112a′ includes a bifurcated surface which, when applied to the skin will leave a mark similar to the shape of a greater than (“>”) or lesser than (“<”) symbol which differs from the shape of the mark to be left by the surface 1113a of the opposite end.

An applicator such as that shown in FIG. 17A may include a hollow cylindrical body which forms a chamber for holding a fluid-based makeup, e.g. a liquid makeup or gel makeup, or for holding a cartridge holding a fluid-based makeup such as that shown in FIG. 10. FIG. 17C includes an applicator 1110″ with a head 1112″ similar to the head in FIG. 17B including a surface 1112a″ with two ends of different shapes 1113a′, 1113b′. The head 1112″ may be attached to an elongated base 1122 coupled to a hollow cylindrical body 1118 which forms a chamber 1120 for holding a fluid-based makeup, e.g. a liquid makeup or gel makeup, or for holding a cartridge holding a fluid-based makeup. The elongated base 1122 may include a passageway with an inlet 1123 and an outlet 1124 through which the makeup can flow from the chamber 1120 (or cartridge) to the head 1112″. Given the porous nature of the head 1112″ (e.g., when the head includes a felt, foam or sponge body), the head may act like a wick to draw the makeup into the head as described above.

In addition, the elongated base 1122 may include a valve to control the flow of makeup from the chamber or cartridge to the head. The valve may be actuated similar to that of a ball point pen. For example, a suitably rigid barrier to flow of makeup from the chamber 1120 to the head 1112″ may be positioned in or near the outlet 1124 of the elongated base 1122. The barrier such as a ball may be at least slightly displaced from the outlet 1124 by applying pressure to the head 1112″ to allow the flow of makeup from the chamber 1120 to the head 1112″ and surface 1112a″. In this manner, when the applicator is not in use the barrier may remain in place preventing the flow of makeup from the chamber 1120.

Referring now to FIG. 18, another embodiment of an applicator 1210 includes a handle 1214, a left applicator head 1212a, and a right applicator head 1212b. Applicator heads 1212a, 1212b may be included on either or both ends of the handle to be used as a dual end tool. The heads 1212a, 1212b can be removeable and interchangeable and, further, can be selected from any of the type of applicator head described herein or may include other tools such as brushes, sponges and/or a smudger. The heads 1212a, 1212b may be the same shape or may be or different types of heads.

The applicator 1310 of FIG. 19 is an example of a dual applicator. The applicator 1310 includes a handle 1314 that may further include handle pads 1315 of a soft material. On one end is a wheel head applicator 1312a similar to that shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 and discussed above. The wheel head applicator 1312a is mounted to the handle 1314 by a shaft 1320 and rotates about an axis 1320a. On the end of the handle 1314 opposite the wheel head 1312a is a brush 1312b.

Additionally or alternatively, any of the applicators described above may have multiple heads available for the application of makeup at the same end of the applicator. As shown in FIG. 20, the applicator 1410 may include a primary handle 1414 with a primary head 1411. On the applicator 1410 of FIG. 20, the primary head is a wheel head 1412 similar that described above and shown in FIGS. 14, 15, and 19 with a rotating disk surface 1412a connected to the handle 1414 by a base 1422 and shaft 1420 so that the surface 1412a rotates about the an axis 1420a. In addition to the primary handle 1414, the applicator 1410 may include any number of auxiliary handles such as, for example, secondary handle 1434. The auxiliary handle may include an auxiliary head such as a smudger, brush, sponge, or any applicator head such as those described above. The auxiliary head may be configured to augment the mark made by the primary head. Such augmentation may include the application of additional makeup by the auxiliary head and/or the altering of the mark applied by the primary head. The applicator 1410 of FIG. 20 includes a secondary head 1442 including a smudger.

Referring now to FIG. 21, the applicator 1510 may include a primary head 1511 that is a wheel head 1512 similar in structure and function to the wheel head 1412 shown in FIG. 20. As an auxiliary handle, the applicator 1510 includes a secondary handle 1534 with a secondary head 1542 including a brush.

The auxiliary handles (e.g., handle 1434, 1534) may be connected to the primary handle 1414, 1514 in any number of ways. For example, the auxiliary handles may be fixed on a particular point along the primary handle 1414, 1514 and fixed to project from primary handle 1414, 1514 at a particular angle such as by a pin mount. Alternatively, either or both the position of the auxiliary handle along the primary handle and the angle of projection (e.g., angle 1560 of FIG. 21) of the auxiliary handle relative to the primary handle 1414, 1514 may be adjustable over a range or may be biased, for example, by a coil or leaf spring, toward a particular angle. The position of the auxiliary handle along the length of the primary handle 1414, 1514 may be adjusted, for example, by providing a cam on end of the auxiliary handle that can fit over the primary handle and move along the length of the primary handle 1414, 1514 to a desired location or by providing a slot or groove along the length of the primary handle 1414, 1514 into which a protrusion on the auxiliary handle is fitted and may slide along the slot or groove to the desired position.

The angle of the projection of the auxiliary handle relative to the primary handle 1414, 1514 may be adjusted, for example, by attaching the auxiliary handle to the primary handle 1414, 1514 by a shaft similar to the shaft (e.g., shaft 1420) that connects the wheel head 1412, 1512 to the base (e.g., base 1422) and allows the auxiliary handle to rotate about an axis of the shaft. Alternatively, the auxiliary handle may be attached by a ball joint to the primary handle 1414, 1514, thereby allowing adjustment of the angle of the projection of the auxiliary handle relative to the primary handle 1414, 1514 in three dimensions.

The angle of projection of the auxiliary handle relative to the primary handle and/or the position of the auxiliary handle along the length of the primary handle 1414, 1514 may range from a stowed position in which the auxiliary head is not engaged for contact with the user's skin, and any one of a deployed positions in which the auxiliary head is positioned to contact the skin in concert with the application of makeup by the primary head 1411, 1511. Further, the auxiliary handle may be selectively attached or removed by any manner suitable snap fittings for quick connections.

Referring now to FIGS. 23-24G, an eye makeup brush 2010 includes handle 2014, a first ferrule 2013, and a first brush head 2012. The ferrule may be metal sleeve, such as aluminum, that is crimped to hold a plurality of bristles 2030 about the end of the handle to form the first brush head 2012 or may be plastic that is injection molded onto the handle. For the purposes of this disclosure, the method of forming ferrule 2013 will be described in reference to a metal ferrule.

The first ferrule 2013 is attached at one end to the handle 2014 and has an open end adapted to receive the plurality of bristles 2030. Further, the open end of first ferrule 2013 is formed, such as by bending, into a generally V-shape to form a first side portion 2013a and a second side portion 2013b, which are disposed at an acute angle α relative to one another (as view from the end as shown in FIG. 24C0. First and second side portions 2013a and 2013b are spaced apart at their distal ends but then converge together at an apex 2013c to define a tapered wedged shaped recess 2013d there between. Alternately, it may be desirable to make the angle obtuse, while still forming a generally V-shaped ferrule.

Each first and second side portions 2013a, 2013b holds and secures therein the proximal ends of first and second bristle portions 2015 and 217 of bristles 230 to form the brush head 230. The first and second bristle portions 2015 and 217 of bristles 230 extend axially from first and second side portions of ferrule 2013 wherein the shape of the brush head is generally V-shape as defined by the V-shaped portion of the ferrule.

The distal or opposed ends of the first and second bristle portions 2015 and 217 of bristles 230 define an applicator surface 2034. Optionally, the lengths of the bristles are generally equal so that the applicator surface 2034 is generally planar so to form a V-shape mark on a person's skin after being dipped in makeup. It should be understood that the ends of the bristles may vary slightly to create a slight rounded surface, which is arranged in a plane.

As described above, the first and second side portions 2013a, 2013b of the first ferrule 2013 are disposed at an acute angle α relative to one another. It is further contemplated that the first and second sides 2013a, 2013b of the first ferrule 2013 may be disposed at an angle α measuring between one of: 60 and 89 degrees, between 65 and 85 degrees, or between 70 and 80 degrees. Optionally, the angle α may measure approximately 75 degrees. Further, the length of the bristles may be varied so as to create a curved application surface, for example, curved with a curvature that would follow the curvature of an average face around the eyebrow area.

Before being formed into its V-shaped configuration, ferrule 2013 has circular base that is large enough to extend over the end of handle 2014 and thereafter crimped onto the handle. The balance of ferrule 2013 is a flared, conical body, which holds the bristles and is then pressed and substantially flattened into a triangular shaped body. Thereafter, ferrule 2013 is folded or bent about its longitudinal axis into the V-shape described above with its base secured or anchored to the handle. This can be done by pressing a tool into the flattened, triangular shaped ferrule or by pressing the triangular shape ferrule onto a mold with a shape commensurate with the tapered wedged shaped recess shown in FIGS. 23, 24C, and 24F.

Optionally, the eye makeup brush 2010 includes a second ferrule 2019 attached to the second end of the handle 2014 and a smudger brush head 2050. The smudger brush head 2050 includes a plurality of bristles 2052 having first ends secured within the second ferrule 2019 and opposite second ends defining a smudging applicator surface 2054. In one exemplary configuration, the bristles 2052 are not all the same length such that the smudging applicator surface 2054 forms an angled surface.

As will be described in greater detail below, the applicator surface 2034 is adapted to receive a supply of eye makeup and to form an eye makeup shape, for example, a V-shape, for direct application onto a person's skin. The applicator surface 2034 of the brush head 2012 is pressed onto the person's skin, thereby forming a mark on the person's skin. Further, the smudging applicator surface 2054 of the smudger brush 2050 is adapted to smudge the applied eye makeup.

FIGS. 25A-25C depict a method of using the brush head 2012 of the eye makeup brush 2010 to apply eye makeup to a person's eye 2060 for a classic lined look. To begin, a person applies eye makeup to the applicator surface 2034 of the brush head 2012 of the eye makeup brush 2010. Then, the applicator surface 2034 is aligned with an outside edge of the person's eye 2060, aligning a lower edge 2062 of the brush head 2012 with the lower eye 2064, as illustrated in FIG. 25A. The applicator surface 2034, which is holding an application of eye makeup, is pressed onto the person's skin, forming a mark of eye makeup 2066 on the person's skin. The mark of eye makeup 2066 is reflective of the shape of the brush head 2012. In the illustrated embodiment, the mark is V-shaped.

With the initial mark of eye makeup 2066 applied, the mark may an extension of the eye and further define an outer perimeter or boundary of the makeup that is going to be applied. Option, the user may drag the applied eye makeup 2066 inward along the person's upper lash line 2068 using the smudging applicator surface 2054 of the smudger brush 2050 of the eye makeup brush 2010. Similarly, the person drags the applied eye makeup 2066 inward along the person's lower lash line 2064 using the smudging applicator surface of the smudger brush 2050. The result, illustrated in FIG. 25C is a classic lined look of eye makeup. Alternately, the mark may be used as a guide to fill in with makeup.

FIGS. 26A-26C depict a method of using the brush head 2012 of the eye makeup brush 2010 to apply eye makeup to a person's eye 2060 for a smoky cat eye look. To begin, a person applies eye makeup to the applicator surface 2034 of the brush head 2012 of the eye makeup brush 2010. Then, the applicator surface 2034 is aligned with an outside edge of the person's eye 2160, aligning a lower edge 2062 of the brush head 2012 with a corner 2168 of the eye 2160, as illustrated in FIG. 26A. The applicator surface 2034, which is holding an application of eye makeup, is pressed onto the person's skin, forming a mark of eye makeup 2166 on the person's skin. The mark of eye makeup 2166 is reflective of the shape of the brush head 2012.

With the initial mark of eye makeup 2166 applied, the mark may form an outer perimeter or boundary of the makeup being applied. Optionally, the user may drag the applied eye makeup 2066 inward along the person's upper lash line 2068 using the smudging applicator surface 2054 of the smudger brush 2050 of the eye makeup brush 2010. The person then fills in the applied eye makeup 2166, inward, toward the eye 2160, using the mark of eye makeup 2166 as a guide. The applied eye makeup 2166 on the person's lower lash line 2064 is dragged inward using the smudging end of the smudger brush 2050. The result, illustrated in FIG. 26C is a smoky cat eye look of eye makeup. Alternately, the user may simply fill in the area between the mark and the wearer's eyelashes.

While several forms of the inventions have been shown and described, the above description is that of current embodiments of the invention. Various alterations and changes can be made without departing from the spirit and broader aspects of the invention as defined in the appended claims, which are to be interpreted in accordance with the principles of patent law including the doctrine of equivalents. This disclosure is presented for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted as an exhaustive description of all embodiments of the invention or to limit the scope of the claims to the specific elements illustrated or described in connection with these embodiments. For example, and without limitation, any individual element(s) of the described invention may be replaced by alternative elements that provide substantially similar functionality or otherwise provide adequate operation. This includes, for example, presently known alternative elements, such as those that might be currently known to one skilled in the art, and alternative elements that may be developed in the future, such as those that one skilled in the art might, upon development, recognize as an alternative. Further, the disclosed embodiments include a plurality of features that are described in concert but which can be used independently and/or combined with other features. The present invention is not limited to only those embodiments that include all of these features or that provide all of the stated benefits, except to the extent otherwise expressly set forth in the issued claims. For example, any reference to claim elements in the singular, for example, using the articles “a,” “an,” “the” or “said,” is not to be construed as limiting the element to the singular. Additionally, directional terms used in the specification, such as “vertical,” “horizontal,” “top,” “bottom,” “upper,” “lower,” “inner,” “inwardly,” “outer” and “outwardly,” are used to assist in describing the invention based on the orientation of the embodiments shown in the illustrations. The use of directional terms should not be interpreted to limit the invention to any specific orientation(s).

Therefore, it will be understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings and described above are merely for illustrative purposes, and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention which is defined by the claims which follow as interpreted under the principles of patent law including the doctrine of equivalents.

	Number	Date	Country
Parent	14492621	Sep 2014	US
Child	14961242		US

MAKEUP APPLICATOR

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