HK1118427A - Cosmetic applicator - Google Patents

Description

Cosmetic applicator

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates generally to cosmetic applicators. More particularly, the present invention relates to applicators for applying cosmetic materials to keratinous fibers, such as eyelashes.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Various types of cosmetic applicators are known in the art. Brushes, such as those used to apply mascara to eyelashes, typically include a stem having a first end connected to a handle. An applicator head (e.g., bristles) is attached to the second end of the stem. In use, the mascara-laden brush head is applied to the eyelashes.

Mascaras come in a variety of forms including cakes or blocks, creams, gels, semi-solids, and low viscosity liquids. Cake mascaras were originally the most popular form, consisting of at least 50% soap, with the pigment mixed with the soap cake. Mascara can be lathered with a wet brush and then applied to the eyelashes, resulting in a satisfactory smooth application, but leaving a thin cosmetic coating on the individual eyelashes. The main drawback is that the film on the eyelashes is extremely water soluble, easily smudged and runs down on the skin around the periphery of the eyes. As a solution, waxes are incorporated into mascara compositions, thereby improving their water-resistant properties. Unfortunately, the smoothness of the coating can be adversely affected. In other words, as the viscosity of the mascara formulation increases, application becomes more difficult and cumbersome and results in less separation of the eyelashes.

With the advent of mascara applicators, a method for expanding the mascara formulation options was born. For example, creams combined with a wound wire brush or stick application provide convenient uses and compositions that can incorporate film formers to improve frictional resistance and mascara film flexibility. This also provides a convenient means of separating and structuring the eyelashes. There are several types of mascara formulations today, including anhydrous mascara, water-in-oil emulsions, oil-in-water emulsions, and water-based mascara that contains little or no oil phase. The previously mentioned emulsions may also be multiple emulsions, such as but not limited to water-in-oil-in-water emulsions. Many mascaras are water-based emulsions and contain emulsifying waxes and polymers, typically with pigments dispersed into the water phase. Water provides curling and application properties, while wax and polymer create a transfer resistant end mascara film on lashes stained with color. Anhydrous and water-in-oil mascaras are often referred to as waterproof mascaras because of their excellent transfer resistance, especially to water. Their high hydrophobic material content produces films containing very little material that causes water to break down and abrade the film. In the case of water-in-oil mascaras, the inner water droplets can deliver water-soluble/dispersible materials that would otherwise not be able to be incorporated into the oil phase. Water-based mascaras are typically gelled water with polymers to create deposition and hold the eyelashes. These mascaras typically do not contain a coloring agent, although coloring agents may be added.

Consumers expect their mascara products to have specific properties such as tackiness to eyelashes, lengthening/curling the eyelashes, not smudging or flaking, thickening the eyelashes, and good separation of the mascara tufts. Especially long, aesthetic, plump, soft and separated eyelashes are desired. Mascara typically distributes a smooth and thin (coating thickness) film over the eyelashes, creating a satisfactory arrangement of reasonably separated lashes that are darker and denser than the makeup-free lashes, making the eyes significantly more beautiful. It is well understood that some clumping of eyelashes will occur naturally because the eyelashes are arranged both in rows and columns above and below the eyes. Thus, "separated" eyelashes do not necessarily mean that each eyelash is considered to be a single entity. A user believes that mascara that separates eyelashes well will create more clumping of eyelashes than mascara that does not. Typically, the mascara deposit has a coating of 5 to 15 microns thick. However, many "volumizing" mascaras are messy and clumpy and tend to clump too many lashes together in a thick, less discrete appearance, which appears to be fewer lashes.

Conventional mascara brushes typically require manipulation of a handle or other member, and often require repeated brushing of the brush on the eyelashes to completely and evenly coat each eyelash with mascara while maintaining or promoting separation of the eyelashes from one another. For example, to coat the entire eyelash, the user may move the brush in a vertical direction to ensure coverage of the entire eyelash. In addition, depending on the desired amount of mascara to be applied to the eyelashes, the user may rotate the brush to adjust the different portions of the brush head that contact the eyelashes. Still further, the user may also move the brush back and forth in a horizontal direction to facilitate separation of the eyelashes and/or to ensure better coverage of the eyelashes. Thus, the user must provide the motive force for applying the brush to the eyelashes, and must have sufficient dexterity to manipulate the brush in a satisfactory manner as needed to cover the eyelashes. In addition, applying mascara with a conventional brush requires several passes of the brush on the eyelashes, and is therefore inefficient.

Recently, rotary mascara brushes have been conceived, in which the stem of the brush is supported for rotary movement relative to the handle. The force used to rotate the stem and attached brush head can be manual, such as the brushes described in U.S. patent 6,145,514 to Clay and U.S. patent 5,937,871 to Clay. It may also be electrically powered, such as the brush described in U.S. patent 6,565,276 to Diaz. While these rotating stem brushes eliminate the need for the user to turn the handle during application of mascara, they do not apply and separate the lashes in an optimal manner. Moreover, these brushes are limited to simple, unidirectional rotation of the brush head and therefore are not capable of some potentially more complex application maneuvers.

In addition, various types of applicators have been devised which are adapted to impart different types of eyelash effects. For example, a first brush design may promote separation of eyelashes, while a second brush design promotes volumizing or coverage of the eyelashes. Thus, the user must use two separate brushes, or (if a single brush head has both types of brush designs) the user must change the position of the handle to use both sides.

Summary of the disclosure

The present disclosure relates to a device for applying a cosmetic product. For example, the device may include a handle, a stem defining a longitudinal stem axis and having a first end connected to the handle and a second end, and an applicator head connected to the second end of the stem and supported for rotation relative to the handle. An actuator is operatively connected to the applicator head for imparting an oscillating motion to the applicator head.

Another embodiment relates to a device for applying a cosmetic product. The device has a handle, a stem defining a longitudinal stem axis and having a first end connected to the handle and a second end, and an applicator head connected to the second end of the stem, the applicator head including a first set of protrusions having a first hardness and a second set of protrusions having a second hardness, wherein the first hardness is greater than the second hardness. An actuator is operatively connected to the applicator head for imparting an oscillating motion to the applicator head.

Another embodiment relates to a device for applying a cosmetic product. The apparatus includes a handle, a stem defining a longitudinal stem axis and having a first end connected to the handle and a second end, and an applicator head connected to the second end of the stem. An actuator is operatively connected to the applicator head for imparting vibratory motion to the applicator head, wherein the actuator is also connected to the handle for providing a tactile vibratory signal to a user.

Brief description of the drawings

FIG. 1 is a partially schematic side elevational view of one embodiment of a cosmetic applicator, shown in cross-section;

fig. 2-6 are partial schematic side elevational views of alternative arrangements of protrusions for use with the cosmetic applicator of fig. 1;

FIGS. 7-28 show various examples of highlighted cross-sectional shapes;

FIGS. 29 and 30 are perspective views of an applicator head having alternative protrusions;

fig. 31A to C illustrate an applicator head having a combination of flexible protrusions and rigid protrusions;

fig. 32 to 42 are diagrammatic cross-sections showing possible cross-sectional shapes of the stem;

FIG. 43 shows how the center of a stem can be off-center;

FIGS. 44 through 56 are plan views of an applicator head having various projection distributions around the circumference;

FIGS. 57-63 are plan views of each quadrant of various applicator heads, showing the projection profiles along the axial length of the applicator heads;

fig. 64 and 65 are graphs illustrating varying rotational speeds of the stem;

FIG. 66 is a graph illustrating the constant rotational speed of the stem;

fig. 67 and 68 are graphs illustrating the reversible rotational speed of the stem;

fig. 69 is a perspective view of an applicator with an offset stem;

fig. 70 is a perspective view of an applicator having a stem with a non-uniform cross-sectional shape;

fig. 71 is a schematic side elevational view, in cross-section, of an applicator having an electric motor;

fig. 72 is a schematic side elevational view, in cross-section, of an applicator having an electric motor and a controller;

FIG. 73 is a schematic side elevational view, in cross-section, of an applicator having a transmission coupling for converting unidirectional motor rotation into rotational oscillating motion of an applicator head;

FIGS. 74A-D are partially schematic side elevational views of the transmission coupling of FIG. 73 at various stages of operation;

fig. 75A-C are schematic side elevation views, in cross-section, of an applicator having a transmission coupling for converting axial actuator motion to rotary oscillating motion of an applicator head;

fig. 76A-D are schematic side elevational views of an applicator having a transmission coupling for converting unidirectional motor rotation into rotational oscillating motion of an applicator head;

FIG. 77 is a perspective view of an applicator having an applicator head with axial movement;

fig. 78A and 78B are schematic side elevation views, shown in cross-section, of an applicator having a transmission coupling for converting axial actuator motion into a compound motion of an applicator head having a rotational oscillation component and an axial motion component;

fig. 79A-C are schematic side elevation views of an applicator having a transmission coupling for converting electromagnetic potential energy into axial motion of an applicator head;

80A-D are schematic side elevation views, in cross-section, of an applicator having a transmission coupling for converting unidirectional motor rotation into axial motion of an applicator head;

81A-C are schematic side elevational views, in cross-section, of an applicator having a transmission coupling for converting unidirectional motor rotation into a compound motion of an applicator head having a rotational oscillation component and an axial motion component;

82A and 82B are side elevational views of the flexible protrusions on the axially moving applicator head;

83A-C are side elevational views of a combination of flexible protrusions and rigid protrusions on an axially moving applicator head;

FIGS. 84 and 85 are perspective views of protrusions formed to promote flow of cosmetic material from the root to the tip;

FIG. 86 is a perspective view of an applicator having a switch for reversing the rotation of the applicator head;

fig. 87 is a perspective view of an applicator having first and second stems for carrying first and second applicator heads, respectively;

fig. 88 is a schematic side elevational view, in cross-section, of an applicator capable of vibrating an applicator head;

FIG. 89 is a schematic side elevational view, in cross-section, of an applicator capable of imparting a compound motion to an applicator head, the compound motion including a vibrational component and a rotational component;

FIG. 90 is a schematic side elevational view, in cross-section, of an applicator capable of imparting a compound motion to an applicator head, the compound motion including a vibrational component, a radial translational component, and/or a rotational component;

FIG. 91 is a schematic perspective view of an applicator having a shield for selectively covering a switch;

FIG. 92 is a schematic side elevational view of an applicator having two switches positioned in convenient positions for either left or right eye application;

FIG. 93 is a schematic side elevational view, in cross-section, of an applicator capable of imparting a vibrational motion to an applicator head and capable of producing tactile vibrations in a handle;

fig. 94A and 94B are schematic views, shown in cross-section, of an applicator capable of imparting a vibrational motion to an applicator head and capable of producing tactile vibrations in a handle;

fig. 95 is a schematic side elevation view, in cross section, of an applicator having a flexible shaft;

fig. 96 is a schematic side elevation view of an applicator with a fixed protrusion and a moving protrusion, shown in cross-section; and

fig. 97A-C are plan views of various embodiments of the applicator of fig. 96, shown in cross-section.

While the specification concludes with claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter that is regarded as the present invention, it is believed that the invention will be more fully understood from the following description and the accompanying drawings. None of the drawings are necessarily to scale.

Detailed Description

A cosmetic applicator having an applicator head adapted for use on a rotating stem is disclosed herein. The applicator head includes protrusions that are spaced sufficiently apart to allow keratinous fibers (e.g., eyelashes) to pass therebetween. In accordance with other embodiments, disclosed herein are cosmetic applicators whose applicator head is capable of complex motions such as variable speed rotation, oscillating motion along the axis of the stem, and vibratory motion to improve coverage and separation of keratinous fibers. The applicator is particularly suitable for applying mascara (which may be any of the above materials, or a combination thereof) to eyelashes.

As shown in the partial schematic view of fig. 1, applicator 10 includes a handle 12 defining a housing 14. The stem 16 is supported by conventional means for rotation relative to the handle 12. The motor 18 includes a motor shaft 19 connected to a first end of the stem 16. The second end of the stem 16 defines an applicator head 20. A battery 22 is operatively connected to the motor 18 and a switch 24 is manually actuatable to selectively deliver battery power to the motor 18. Applicator 10 may also include a controller 26 connected between battery 22 and motor 18 for controlling the operation of motor 18.

In operation, a user may activate the switch 24 to selectively transfer potential energy from the battery 22 to the motor 18. In response, the motor may rotate the motor shaft and the stem 16 connected thereto. As a result, the applicator head also rotates. Although the embodiment illustrated in fig. 1 includes a battery for providing potential energy to the motor 18, it should be understood that other types of energy sources may be used, such as mechanical potential energy stored in a resilient member (e.g., a spring or rubber band).

The applicator head 20 comprises one or more elements projecting from the stem for separating keratinous fibers (e.g., eyelashes) and applying a cosmetic thereto. Although the applicator element may be provided as a conventional twisted wire brush, we have found that the use of moulded protrusions is preferred. As used herein, a "protrusion" is a member that extends generally out of or into the basal surface of the applicator head. Thus "protruding" provides a localized area that is not continuous with the surrounding root surface. While the projections typically extend outwardly away from the root surface, they may also invert to project inwardly to form the grooves.

In the illustrated embodiment, the molded protrusions are formed as elongated fingers 30 having a base end connected to the stem 16 and an opposite free end. In the illustrated embodiment, the cross-sectional area of each finger 30 tapers from a base end to a free end, and each finger is oriented to extend substantially perpendicular to the axis 32 of the stem 16. It should be understood that the fingers may diverge from the base to make the tip larger, or the fingers may not taper at all but rather have a substantially uniform size. Also, the fingers may extend at an oblique angle relative to the stem axis 32.

The fingers 30 are spaced along the stem 16 and have free ends of suitable size so that each finger 30 can pass between adjacent keratinous fibers. The spacing allows the fingers 30 to be inserted between fibers even as the applicator head 20 rotates, thereby maximizing the fiber surface area engaged by each finger 30 and facilitating separation of adjacent fibers. The protrusions should be spaced far enough apart to allow eyelashes to pass between adjacent protrusions, but close enough to separate adjacent eyelashes. Thus, the gap between adjacent protrusions may be about 0.2mm to 3.0 mm.

Although each of the protrusions illustrated in fig. 1 extends from a localized area of the circumference of the stem 16, other areas of engagement between the stem and the protrusions may be used. As illustrated in fig. 2, for example, each protrusion 30 may be substantially disc-shaped and have a base end that is substantially ring-shaped. In the illustrated embodiment, the base end preferably engages no more than one full circumference of the surface of the stem 16 to minimize kinking of the eyelashes as the protrusions 30 are rotated. Other disc shapes that wrap around more than one full circumference of the stem may also be used. For example, an elongate stem having a rectangular cross-section may be twisted such that corners of the stem form local protrusions, while each side of the stem forms a groove or gap between adjacent corners. The protrusions are attached to the surface of the stem to define an irregular or non-uniform applicator head profile that generally matches the shape of the stem. The protrusion may have a length of 10% to 400% of the length of the stem extension.

While the disc-shaped protrusion 30 is illustrated in fig. 2 as a single molded member, it should be understood that the protrusion 30 may be formed from multiple members (e.g., bristles arranged in a disc-shaped pattern). The protrusions 30 may extend substantially perpendicular to the stem axis 32 to form a straight row of protrusions. Alternatively, all or some of the protrusions 30 may be oriented at the same oblique angle relative to the stem axis 32 to form a diagonal row (as illustrated in fig. 3), or may include a first set of protrusions 34 oriented at a first oblique angle and a second set of protrusions 36 oriented at a second oblique angle different from the first oblique angle to form a reverse diagonal row (as illustrated in fig. 4). Each protrusion 30 may include a first protrusion segment 38 extending at a first oblique angle and a second protrusion segment 40 extending at a second oblique angle such that the first protrusion segment intersects the second protrusion segment 40 to form a cross-diagonal row, as illustrated in fig. 5. In addition to the first and second projection segments 38, 40, each projection 30 may also include a third projection segment 42 extending substantially perpendicular to the stem axis 32 to form a combined row, as illustrated in fig. 6. In each of the foregoing embodiments, an annular gap 44 is provided between adjacent protrusions 30 to allow the protrusions to be inserted between adjacent keratinous fibers. Each gap is preferably about 0.2mm to 3.0mm, providing sufficient space for eyelashes to pass between adjacent protrusions while providing at least some degree of separation of the eyelashes.

The cross-sectional shape of the protrusions 30 may vary without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. As illustrated in fig. 1, the protrusions are provided in the form of fingers having a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. The protrusions may have various types of cross-sectional shapes other than circular, such as any of the shapes illustrated in fig. 7-23, for example: a circular shape with flattened sides as shown in fig. 7; flat as shown in fig. 8; a star shape as shown in fig. 9, for example in the form of a cross, or with three branches as shown in fig. 10; a U-shape as shown in FIG. 11; an H-shape as shown in fig. 12; a T-shape as shown in FIG. 13; a V-shape as shown in FIG. 14; a hollow shape such as a circle as shown in fig. 15 or a polygon, particularly a square as shown in fig. 16; take on a branched shape, such as the snowflake shape shown in FIG. 17; a polygon such as a triangle as shown in fig. 18, a square as shown in fig. 19, or a hexagon as shown in fig. 20; elliptical, especially lens-shaped as shown in fig. 21; or hourglass shape as shown in fig. 22. It is also possible to use protrusions with mutually hinged parts as shown in fig. 23.

The protruding ends may be formed in various shapes or include various structures. Where appropriate, the protrusions may be subjected to treatment to form respective end balls 50 as shown in fig. 24, end forks 51 as shown in fig. 25, or tapered tips as shown in fig. 26. The protrusions may also be clustered as shown in fig. 27 or made by extruding a plastic material containing filler particles 52 to impart micro-undulations to the surface of the bristles as shown in fig. 28, or to impart magnetic or other properties thereto.

The protrusions may have an outer surface that is particularly adapted to transfer cosmetic material from the root of the protrusion to the free end. For example, each protrusion may include an outer coating having a low surface energy to more easily transfer product to the eyelashes. The coating may be particularly suitable for use with cosmetic materials, such as the mascara materials mentioned above in the background.

In addition to the elongated profile illustrated in fig. 1, at least some of the protrusions may be shorter, such as protruding discs 56, dimples, or ridges 58 extending from the outer surface of the stem 16, as illustrated in fig. 29 and 30. Still further, protrusions having a wide range of flexibility or hardness may be used.

The applicator head 20 may include a variety of protrusions having different shapes or exhibiting different properties. For example, the applicator head 20 may include a first set of protrusions having a first cross-sectional shape and a second set of protrusions having a second cross-sectional shape. Further, the first set of protrusions 30a may have a first hardness, while the second set of protrusions 30b has a second and different hardness. By using protrusions having different hardnesses, rotation of the applicator head will cause the more flexible protrusions to flex to a greater extent than the stiffer protrusions, as illustrated in fig. 31A-C.

The stem 16 may have a uniform, circular cross-section or a non-circular shape, such as a polygonal (e.g., triangular as shown in fig. 32) cross-section. As further examples, the stem 16 may have a square cross-sectional shape as shown in fig. 33, a pentagonal shape as shown in fig. 34, a hexagonal shape as shown in fig. 35, or an elliptical shape as shown in fig. 36. The stem 16 may have at least one notched area 60 that is concave in appearance (as shown in fig. 37 and 38), wherein the notch exhibits a constant or non-constant cross-section. The notches 60 may be formed in a circular cross-sectional shape, as shown in fig. 37, or in a non-circular cross-sectional shape (e.g., a triangular cross-section), as shown in fig. 38. In the case of a triangle, the notch 60 may constitute one entire side of the triangle as shown, in which case the applicator presents a concave face. The shape of the stem 16 may include a planar face 61, as illustrated in fig. 39. The contour may optionally include at least one notch 62, such as the three notches shown in FIG. 40. The shape of a stem 16 having two indentations 62 is shown in fig. 41, while the shape of a stem having one indentation 62 is shown in fig. 42. The applicator head 20 may define a constant or non-constant cross-sectional profile, and its core may be linear or non-linear. The stem 16 may be centered or off-center relative to the profile of the cross-sectional profile, as shown in fig. 43.

The stem 16 may be circular and have protrusions of uniform length to define a circular applicator head contour 64, as shown in fig. 44. The protrusions may be densely spaced as shown in fig. 44, moderately spaced as shown in fig. 49, or sparsely spaced as shown in fig. 55. Further, each protrusion may have a relatively long length as shown in FIG. 44 or a relatively short length as shown in FIG. 54.

Alternatively, the shape of the stems 16 and/or the length and spacing of the protrusions may be varied to define a non-circular applicator head profile. For example, the length of the protrusions may alternate between short and long lengths around the circumference of the stem 16 to define a cross-sectional applicator head profile 66 having notches, as shown in fig. 45. One half of the applicator may include more densely spaced protrusions, while the other half of the applicator may have more sparsely spaced protrusions, providing an applicator head with a varying density of cross-sections, as illustrated in fig. 46. The applicator head may include several protrusions of different lengths to define an irregular applicator head profile as shown in fig. 47 and 48. Other possible embodiments include: one half of the applicator has shorter protrusions and the other half of the applicator head 20 has longer protrusions, as shown in fig. 50; one quadrant of the applicator head 20 has longer projections and the remaining three quadrants of the applicator head have shorter projections, as shown in FIG. 51; the longer projection and the shorter projection are oppositely disposed, as shown in fig. 52; one half of the applicator head 20 has densely spaced protrusions and the other half includes a single protrusion, as shown in FIG. 53; and one half of the applicator includes a plurality of closely spaced protrusions and the other half includes a pair of protrusions, as shown in fig. 56.

In addition to varying the circumferential spacing of the protrusions, the axial spacing of the protrusions along the applicator head 20 may also be varied. Fig. 57A-D illustrate four quadrants of the applicator head 20 having substantially evenly spaced protrusions 30 in the axial direction indicated by arrow 70. The pattern of protrusions is uniform so as to produce alternating or staggered rows of protrusions lying in a plane extending substantially perpendicular to the stem axis 32. Fig. 58A-D illustrate four quadrants of the applicator head 20 having evenly spaced protrusions located in planes that extend at oblique angles relative to the stem axis 32. Fig. 59A-D illustrate four quadrants of the applicator head 20 having non-uniformly spaced protrusions forming a repeating pattern having more densely spaced protrusion areas and less densely spaced protrusion areas. Fig. 60A-D illustrate four quadrants of the applicator head 20 having evenly spaced protrusions forming aligned rows of protrusions lying in a plane extending substantially perpendicular to the stem axis 32. Fig. 61A-D illustrate four quadrants of an applicator head, each quadrant having a different protrusion pattern.

The applicator head 20 may include a pattern of protrusions having different lengths. As shown in fig. 62A-D, four quadrants of the applicator head are shown with evenly spaced protrusions. The pattern includes shorter protrusions 72 (illustrated in a darker shade) and longer protrusions 74 (illustrated in a lighter shade). The shorter protrusions may be upstanding to project outwardly from the stem surface, or may be inverted to extend into the stem, and thus may be 0% to 400% shorter than the longer protrusions. The shorter protrusions 72 form a V-shaped pattern extending in the extent of the rectangular longer protrusions 74. Fig. 63A-D illustrate four quadrants of the applicator head, in which the shorter protrusions 72 form a grid pattern, and the longer protrusions 74 form a repeating square pattern within each grid.

The applicator may include visible indicia to identify portions of the applicator having different characteristics. For example, an asymmetric applicator head may include a first region having protrusions with a first characteristic and a second region having protrusions with a second characteristic. The applicator head may have a first visible marking, such as a color, texture, text, or other visually discernable property, identifying the first region, and a second visible marking identifying the second region. The different visible indicia inform the user that different regions have protrusions with different characteristics (e.g., associated flexibility, length, or movement). The visible indicia may be provided as different colors in the first and second regions. For example, a protruding tip, an entire protrusion, or an applicator head surface including a protrusion associated with a first region may have a first color while a similar structure in a second region has a second color. Similarly, the first region may have a first color configuration, e.g., the applicator head surface has a first color and its protrusions or portions have a second color, while the second region has a second color configuration, e.g., the applicator head surface has a third color and its protrusions or portions have a fourth color.

As described above, the motor 18 is connected to the stem 16 to rotate the applicator head 20. The motor 18 preferably rotates the applicator head at a rotational speed suitable for applying mascara to keratinous fibers. Thus, it has been found that speeds of about 0.1rad/s (1rpm) to 20.9rad/s (200rpm) can be used, with a range of about 0.5rad/s (5rpm) to 10.5rad/s (100rpm) being preferred, and a range of about 1.05rad/s (10rpm) to 6.28rad/s (60rpm) being most preferred for certain applications. The motor speed may be fixed or may be adjustable within a suitable range.

An optional controller 26 may be provided for generating more complex movements of the applicator head. For example, the controller 26 may provide a dynamic speed signal to the motor to automatically adjust the rotational speed of the applicator head. The dynamic signal may produce a substantially repeating speed pattern, such as a varying speed corresponding to a degree of shaft rotation, as illustrated by the graphs shown in fig. 64 and 65. In fig. 64, the graph illustrates a gradual, substantially sinusoidal speed fluctuation corresponding to shaft rotation. In contrast, the graph in fig. 65 illustrates a step change corresponding to an abrupt change in shaft rotation. The fixed speed is plotted in the graph shown in fig. 66.

The motor is reversible to facilitate use with eyelashes associated with the left and right eyes. It is often desirable to apply mascara using the motion of the applicator, which starts at the base of the eyelashes and travels toward the free end. The user often holds the applicator 20 in the same hand as the eye (i.e., right hand applies mascara to the right eye and left hand applies mascara to the left eye). The reversible motor advantageously allows the user to operate the applicator in the desired direction for both eyes, as the orientation of the applicator changes as the applicator is transferred between hands.

When a reversible motor is provided to rotate the applicator head in one of two directions, it is advantageous to control the manner in which the user operates the motor to cause the applicator head to rotate in the intended and desired direction. While a simple toggle switch with appropriate indicia may be sufficient, it is more desirable to limit the user's ability to operate the applicator in only the desired direction.

For example, as shown in fig. 91, the applicator 500 may include two switches 502, 504, one for each direction of motor rotation. The handle 506 of the applicator 500 may include text, icons, or other indicia indicating the eye associated with each switch 502, 504. A pivoting shroud 508 is connected to the handle 506 and includes two windows 510, 512 sized to allow access to the associated switches 502, 504. When the shroud is rotated in the appropriate direction, the windows 510, 512 are positioned such that only the switch associated with that window is accessible. As a result, the user is prevented from operating one of the switches.

In an alternative embodiment illustrated in fig. 92, the applicator may position both switches so that only the appropriate switch is easily accessible when it is held in some manner. The applicator 520 includes a handle 522 with two switches 524. Only one switch 524 is visible in fig. 92 because the other switch is positioned on the opposite side of the handle 522 from that shown in fig. 92. Switch 524 is positioned at a natural contact point of the user's hand (e.g., thumb). For example, when the applicator is held in the right hand, only the switch 524 for operating the applicator 520 in a direction of motion suitable for application to the right eye is readily accessible to the user. The other switch may be covered by the palm of the user's hand or otherwise require the user to change positions or make additional manipulations to reach and operate the switch. When switched to the left hand, another switch 524 is positioned for convenient engagement by the user. Thus, the user is more likely to use a more accessible and convenient switch, thus minimizing inadvertent or accidental manipulation of the applicator in an undesired direction.

Still further, the applicator may be adapted to operate only in a desired direction when oriented in a certain position, such as when held to apply cosmetic to the left or right eye. For example, the applicator may have a motor controlled by a mercury switch that reverses the polarity of the motor depending on its position and its contacts with the motor. The applicator handle may be suitably formed such that the mercury switch causes the motor to rotate in a first direction when held in a position near the left eye and causes the motor to rotate in a second, opposite direction when held in a position near the right eye.

The motor 18 may also be controlled to perform a fixed angular rotation each time the switch 24 is actuated. For example, the motor 18 may perform a rapid rotation of the applicator head 20 to rotate through a predetermined rotational angle, thereby presenting different sides of the applicator head 20 to a user. The predetermined angle of rotation may typically be about 0 to 270 degrees, with about 120 to 240 degrees being preferred and about 180 degrees being most preferred. A particular benefit is where the applicator head includes a varying pattern of protrusions, for example the applicator head has a first portion with protrusions arranged to promote separation of eyelashes and a second portion with protrusions arranged to provide volume. The quick, fixed rotation of the applicator head 20 allows the user to switch between the separator and volumizing portions of the applicator head simply by activating the switch 24 without manipulating or repositioning the applicator in the hand.

In accordance with certain embodiments, the applicator head is driven in a rotary oscillating motion, defined herein as automatic bi-directional rotation. Thus, the applicator head 20 alternates between forward rotation and reverse rotation when the switch 24 is activated. Both forward and reverse rotation may be at static or dynamic speeds as described above with respect to unidirectional rotation. Further, the forward rotational speed and the reverse rotational speed may be different. For example, the reverse rotational speed may be relatively slow to facilitate transfer of the cosmetic from the applicator head 20 to the keratinous fibers, while the forward rotational speed may be relatively fast to facilitate separation of the keratinous fibers. Fig. 67 shows a graph illustrating uniform acceleration between the forward direction and the reverse direction corresponding to the rotation angle of the stem. In this graph, the maximum forward rotation speed and the maximum reverse rotation speed are substantially the same. FIG. 68 is a graph showing a gradual, sinusoidal acceleration between a forward rotational direction and a reverse rotational direction, where the maximum forward velocity is greater than the maximum reverse velocity.

The stem may be rotated in the forward and reverse directions for the same or different lengths of time. For example, the forward rotation and the reverse rotation may each be performed for about 1 second. Alternatively, the stem may be rotated in the forward direction for about 2 seconds and in the reverse direction for about 0.5 seconds. The foregoing time periods are exemplary only, and are provided merely for clarity of understanding, as it will be appreciated that other time periods may be used, whether the forward rotation time period is greater than, less than, or equal to the reverse rotation time period, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Applicator 10 may produce an applicator head motion that simultaneously rotates and translates about an axis of rotation. For example, as illustrated in fig. 69, the stem axis 32 may be offset from the rotational axis 78 such that the stem 16 translates in a circular path as it rotates. Alternatively, the stem 16 may have a non-uniform cross-section (e.g., an elliptical shape). As the stem rotates, the non-uniform cross-section causes the stem surface to translate relative to the eyelashes, as shown in fig. 70.

Various types of actuators can be used to operate applicator 10. For example, a mechanical device (e.g., a spring or twisted rubber band) for storing the bit energy may be coupled to the stem 16 for generating the rotational motion. Alternatively, an electrically powered device, such as the motor 18, may be powered by the battery 22 to rotate the stem 16. The battery may be provided in the housing 14 of the handle as illustrated in fig. 1, or may be provided in an associated mascara container. The container may be keyed to the applicator such that the battery only powers the applicator when the pending mascara container is used. The battery may be rechargeable and may or may not have a charging station.

Some examples of applicators capable of producing motion of a rotary applicator head are now described. An applicator 90 capable of simple rotation in one or two directions is schematically illustrated in fig. 71. The applicator 90 includes a handle 92, a stem 94, and an applicator head 96. A motor 98 and a power source, such as a battery 100, are disposed within the handle. When powered, the motor 98 rotates the motor shaft 102 in one direction, however the motor may be reversible to selectively rotate the motor shaft 102 in the opposite direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the stem 94 is directly connected to the motor shaft 102 such that it rotates in the same direction as the rotation of the motor shaft 102 at a 1 to 1 ratio. Alternatively, one or more couplings (e.g., gears) may be provided that can cause the stem 94 to rotate in a direction opposite the rotation of the motor shaft 102. The gears may be sized to cause the stem 94 to rotate faster or slower than the motor shaft 102. A switch 104 is operatively connected to the battery 100 to selectively provide electrical power to the motor. In operation, a user activates the switch 104 to turn on the motor, thereby causing the applicator head 96 to rotate.

Fig. 72 illustrates an applicator 110 capable of driving an applicator head 112 into a rotary oscillating motion. The applicator 110 includes a handle 114 and a stem 116 carrying the applicator head 112. An electric motor 118 is disposed in the handle 114 and includes a motor shaft 120 directly connected to the stem 116. A battery 122 is operatively connected to the motor 118, and a controller 124 is operatively connected to the battery 122. The switch 126 is operatively connected to the controller 124, which in turn controls the battery 122 to selectively provide electrical power to the motor 118. The controller 124 may include a timer and may be capable of reversing the polarity of the battery 122, thereby reversing the direction in which the motor 118 rotates the motor shaft 120. The controller 124 may use a timer to reverse the polarity of the battery at a particular time or after a predetermined length of time to automatically oscillate the rotation of the stem at a preset frequency.

Another applicator 130 is illustrated in fig. 73 and 74A-D, in which motor rotation in one direction is converted to rotary oscillating motion. The applicator 130 includes a handle 132, a stem 134, and an applicator head 136. The motor 138 and the battery 140 are operatively connected together and disposed within the handle 132. The motor 138 includes a motor shaft 142 mechanically connected to the stem 134 by a drive coupling 144. More specifically, the drive coupling 144 includes a motor disc 146 connected to the rotary motor shaft 92. The motor disk 146 includes a pin 148 sized for insertion into a slot 150 formed in a connecting rod 152. The link 152 is pivotally connected to a first end of a follower rod 154. The second end of the follower rod 154 is fixed to the stem 134 such that the follower rod 154 and the stem 134 rotate together. A spring 156 extends between the handle 132 and the follower rod 154 to bias the follower rod 154 in the first direction. In operation, the pin 148 may first be positioned adjacent the lower end of the slot 150, as shown in fig. 74A. As the motor disk 146 rotates clockwise, the pin 148 moves from the lower end to the upper end of the slot 150, as shown in fig. 74B. As the pin 148 continues to rotate upward, the link 152 and follower rod 154 are pulled into the vertically upward direction illustrated in fig. 74C, thereby causing counterclockwise rotation of the stem 134. From the position shown in fig. 74C, further rotation of the motor disk 146 moves the pin 148 downward to slide from the upper end to the lower end of the slot 150, as shown in fig. 74D. Further rotation of the motor disc 146 drives the link 152 and follower rod 154 back down to the position shown in fig. 74A, thereby rotating the stem 134 in a clockwise direction. Thus, the transmission coupling 144 converts unidirectional rotation of the motor shaft 142 into rotational oscillation of the stem 134.

Another exemplary embodiment of an applicator 160 capable of driving an applicator head 162 in a rotational motion is illustrated in fig. 75A-C. The applicator 160 includes a handle 164 and a stem 166 carrying the applicator head 162. An electric coil actuator 168 and a battery 170 are disposed in the handle 164 and are operatively connected together. The coil actuator 168 reciprocates a drive shaft 172 along the axis of the shaft 172. Drive shaft 172 is pivotally connected to a first end on an idler shaft 174. A second end of the idler shaft 174 is fixed to the stem 166 and rotates therewith. In operation, the actuator 168 reciprocates the drive shaft 172 between the extended and retracted positions illustrated in fig. 75B and 75C, respectively. As the drive shaft 172 moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the idler shaft 174 and the associated stem 166 rotate in a clockwise direction. As the drive shaft 172 moves in the reverse direction from the retracted position to the extended position, the idler shaft 174 and the stem 166 rotate in a counterclockwise direction. The speed of rotation and the length of time that the stem 166 is rotated in the forward and reverse directions may be determined by the coil actuator 168, the battery 170, and/or a controller (not shown).

Yet another exemplary embodiment of an applicator 180 is illustrated in fig. 76A-D. The applicator 180 includes a handle 182 and a stem 184 carrying an applicator head 186. As shown in fig. 76A, a motor 188 having a rotary motor shaft 190 is disposed in an oversized cavity 192 formed in the handle 182 and is biased toward a downward position by a spring 194. A drive coupling 196 is provided to operatively connect the motor shaft 190 to the stem 184. The transmission coupling 194 includes a motor disc 198 having an elliptical shape defining a cam surface 199 (best shown in fig. 76B), and engages a fixed surface 200 in the handle 182 to provide a camming action as the motor disc 198 rotates. The motor disc 198 frictionally engages a stem disc 202 connected to the stem 184. In operation, the motor 188 rotates the motor disk 190 that drives the stem disk 202. As the motor disk 198 rotates, the motor 188 is driven up and down by the camming action of the motor disk 198 against the stationary surface 200. The center of rotation of the motor disc 198 therefore moves up and down relative to the height of the stem disc 202. When the center of rotation of the motor disk is above the level of the stem disk 202 as shown in fig. 76D, the stem 184 rotates in a clockwise direction. Conversely, when the center of rotation of the motor disk is below the level of the stem disk 202 as shown in fig. 76C, the stem 184 rotates in a counterclockwise direction. It should be appreciated that as the center of rotation of the motor disk is farther from the height of the stem disk 202, the stem disk rotates at a faster speed. Thus, the transmission coupling 196 converts a unidirectional motor rotation into a rotational oscillation of the stem, wherein the rotational speed varies in both the forward and reverse rotational directions.

It would also be advantageous to provide an applicator capable of producing axial translation of the applicator head to assist in eyelash covering, separation, or to provide an applicator with other functions associated with the application of mascara to eyelashes. Fig. 77 illustrates an applicator 210 having a handle 212 and a stem 214 carrying an applicator head 216. An energy source (e.g., a mechanical or electrical energy source as described above) may be disposed in the handle 212 and coupled to the stem 214 to translate the stem 214 and the associated applicator head 216 along a stem axis 218 as indicated by arrow 220 in fig. 77. Alternatively, the applicator head 216 may be directly connected to a power source for axial movement, while the stem 214 is substantially stationary. In this alternative, some of the protrusions may be connected to the stem and other protrusions may be connected to the applicator head, such that the applicator includes a combination of moving protrusions and relatively stationary protrusions.

The axial motion provided by the applicator 210 is characterized by: the frequency of the motion of the applicator head 216, the axial distance traveled by the applicator head 216, and the symmetry of the applicator head motion speed during the forward and reverse directions of the axial motion. The movement frequency is defined as the number of complete cycles (Hz) completed by the coating head 216 moving back and forth per second. Generally, a frequency of about 0.5Hz to 1000Hz is desirable, with a range of about 1Hz to 300Hz being preferred, and a range of about 2Hz to 200Hz being most preferred. The distance traveled by the applicator head 216 during the axial movement is defined as the displacement distance of the applicator head between the fully extended position and the fully retracted position. Generally, a distance of about 0.1mm to 10mm is desirable, with a range of about 0.25mm to 8mm being preferred, and a range of about 0.5mm to 5mm being most preferred. Axial movement is typically movement along a line substantially parallel to the axis of the stem. This is in contrast to vibrational motion, which may occur in an axial direction, a radial direction, an orbital direction, or other directions. In addition, axial motion typically has a frequency closer to the lower end of the range and a displacement distance closer to the upper end of the range, while vibrational motion typically has a higher frequency and a lower displacement distance. Despite these differences, many of the embodiments described herein are capable of selectively producing both axial and vibratory motion.

The velocity symmetry describes the relative time for the forward stroke and the reverse stroke. In general, it is desirable that the ratio of forward stroke speed to reverse stroke speed be in the range of about 1: 10 to 10: 1, with a range of about 1: 3 to 3: 1 being preferred, and a range of about 1: 2 to 2: 1 being most preferred.

More complex axial motion can be achieved by pausing the motion at any point during the cycle. For example, axial movement may be momentarily stopped at the ends of both the forward and reverse strokes. The length of time that motion is stopped may range from almost instantaneous to an appreciable delay (especially when compared to the time it takes to complete a forward stroke or a reverse stroke). The axial movement may be stopped for a period ranging from about 0.01% to 1000% of the forward stroke time or the reverse stroke time.

An exemplary embodiment of an applicator 230 capable of producing a compound motion comprising a rotational oscillation and an axial oscillation is illustrated in fig. 78A and 78B. The applicator 230 includes a handle 232 and a stem 234 carrying an applicator head 236. A coil actuator 238 is disposed in the handle 232 and includes a drive shaft 240. A drive coupling 242 is provided for operatively connecting the stem 234 to the drive shaft 240. In particular, the drive coupling 242 includes a stem extension 244 connected to the drive shaft 240 by a flexible coupling 246 that allows the stem extension 244 to rotate relative to the drive shaft 240. The stem extension 244 includes a helical groove 248 sized to receive a protrusion 250 connected to the handle 232. In operation, the coil actuator 238 reciprocates the drive shaft 240 in a vertical direction between a retracted position and an extended position illustrated in fig. 78A and 78B, respectively. As the drive shaft 240 moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the stem extension 244 is driven downward. The groove is forced to move along the protrusion 250 causing the stem to rotate in a clockwise direction (when viewed from above). As the drive shaft 240 travels in an upward direction, the stem extension 244 and stem 234 rotate in a counterclockwise direction as the stem 234 travels vertically upward. Thus, the transmission coupling 242 simultaneously produces rotational and axial oscillations of the stem 234. It should be noted that similar grooves and protrusions may be provided for any embodiment that produces axial movement of the stem to rotate the applicator head as it is driven axially relative to the handle.

While the foregoing embodiments disclose a simple on/off switch, it should be understood that the switch may require the user to apply continuous pressure to remain in the open position. Also, the switch may be provided as a potentiometer to vary the voltage supplied to the motor to provide variable applicator head movement.

Another exemplary embodiment of an applicator 260 capable of moving an applicator head 262 in an axial direction is illustrated in fig. 79A-C. The applicator 260 includes a handle 264 and a stem 266 carrying an applicator head 262. An ac electromagnetic motor 268 and a battery 270 are disposed in the housing and operatively connected to each other. The motor 268 can reverse its polarity. The applicator 260 includes a drive coupling 272 for generating vibration or axial oscillation of the stem 266. The stem 266 includes an extension 274 that carries a polarizing magnet 276. The flexible link 278 has a first end connected to the stem extension 274 and a second end pivotally connected to the handle 264. In operation, the polarity of the motor 268 is reversed to alternate between attracting and repelling the polarized magnet 276, thereby driving the stem extension 274 and the associated stem 266 in vertical reciprocation. The amplitude and frequency of the stem vertical displacement may be controlled to produce either a vertical oscillation (typically characterized by a lower frequency and greater amplitude) or a vibratory motion (typically characterized by a higher frequency and lesser amplitude).

Another exemplary embodiment of an applicator 280 for producing axial applicator head motion is illustrated in fig. 80A-D. The applicator 280 includes a handle 282 and a stem 284 carrying an applicator head 286. A motor 288 and a battery 290 are disposed in the handle 282 and are operatively interconnected. The motor 288 is capable of rotating the motor shaft 292 in at least a first direction. A drive coupling 294 is provided to operatively connect the motor shaft 292 to the stem 284. The transmission coupling 294 includes a motor cam disc 296 connected to the motor shaft 292. A stem disk 298 is attached to the end of the stem 284. The spring 300 biases the stem disk 298 toward the up position. In operation, the motor cam disc 296 rotates to drive the stem disc 298 downward against the force of the spring 300, thereby urging the stem disc 298 and the attached stem 284 into the down position, as shown in fig. 80B. Further rotation of the motor cam disc 296 allows the spring 300 to urge the stem disc 298 upward, thereby urging the stem disc 298 and the stem 284 back to the up position shown in fig. 80D. Thus, the transmission coupling 294 converts the unidirectional rotation of the motor cam disc 296 into a bidirectional axial oscillation of the stem 284. The axial movement of the stem 284 may be either an axial oscillation of the stem or a vibration of the stem.

Yet another exemplary embodiment of an applicator 310 for producing axial applicator head movement is illustrated in fig. 81A-C. The applicator 310 includes a handle 312 and a stem 314 carrying an applicator head 316. A motor 317 is disposed in the handle 312 and is capable of rotating the motor shaft 318 in at least one direction. A battery 320 is also disposed in the handle 312 and is operatively connected to the motor 316. A drive coupling 322 is provided to operatively connect the motor shaft 318 to the stem 314. The drive coupling 322 includes a motor disc 324 connected to the motor shaft 318. The motor disk 324 frictionally engages a stem disk 326 connected to the stem 314. A cam follower 328 is connected to the stem disk 326 and is formed to engage a cam driver surface 330 connected to the handle 312. A spring 332 extends between the handle 312 and the stem disk 326 to bias the stem 314 upward. In operation, rotation of the motor disc 324 rotates the stem disc 326. As the stem disk 326 rotates, the cam follower 328 slides along the cam driver surface 330 to simultaneously push the stem disk 326 downward against the force of the spring 332. As a result, the height of the stem disc 326 moves up and down relative to the center of rotation of the motor disc 324 as it rotates. When the center of rotation of the motor disk is above the level of the stem disk 326 as shown in fig. 81B, the stem 314 rotates in a clockwise direction. Conversely, when the center of rotation of the motor disk is below the level of the stem disk 326 as shown in FIG. 81C, the stem 314 rotates in a counterclockwise direction. It will be appreciated that the stem disk rotates at a faster rate when the center of rotation of the motor disk is farther from the height of the stem disk 326. Thus, the transmission coupling 322 converts unidirectional motor rotation into rotational oscillation and axial movement of the stem, with the rotational speed varying in both the forward and reverse rotational directions. The axial movement may be an axial oscillation of the stem or a vibration of the stem.

An applicator 400 particularly suited for creating a vibrating applicator head is illustrated in fig. 88. The applicator 400 includes a handle 402 having an aperture 404 sized to slidingly receive a stem 406 that is movable between an extended position and a retracted position and that carries an applicator head 408. The spring 410 biases the stem 406 in one of an extended position or a retracted position. The stem extension 412 includes a magnet 414. An actuator in the form of an electromagnetic coil 416 is disposed in the handle 402 and is operatively connected to a battery 418. The coil 416 is selectively energizable to generate a magnetic field that either attracts or repels the magnet 414 on the stem extension 412 to move the stem 406 between the extended and retracted positions to impart a reciprocating oscillating motion to the applicator head 408. Alternatively, the actuator may be provided as a piezoelectric diaphragm rather than the electromagnetic coil 416 for generating the vibratory force. If such a diaphragm is used, the magnet 414 can be removed.

An applicator 420 capable of producing a combined vibratory and rotational motion is illustrated in fig. 89. The applicator 420 includes a handle 422 having a motor 424 connected thereto by an isolation spring 426. The motor has a rotary motor shaft 428 with a hammer 430 mounted eccentrically with respect to the motor shaft axis. A switch 432 and a battery 434 are operatively connected to the motor 424. A hub 436, which may have a generally cylindrical or frustoconical shape, is also connected to the handle 422. The stem 438 includes a stem extension 440 that defines a socket 442 sized to rotatably engage the hub 436. The stem 438 also carries an applicator head 444. In operation, rotating eccentric weight 430 generates a vibratory force that is substantially isolated from handle 422 by spring 426. This force is transferred through the hub 436 to the stem 438 causing the stem to rotate. In this embodiment, since the motor shaft 428 is substantially parallel to the stem axis, rotation of the motor shaft 428 in one direction causes the stem 438 to rotate in the opposite direction. The direction of motor shaft rotation can be reversed by switching the polarity of the battery 434. Thus, the applicator 420 is capable of imparting a compound motion to the applicator head 444 that includes a vibrational component and a rotational component.

An applicator 450 capable of producing a compound applicator head motion comprising one or more vibrational elements, radial motion elements, and rotational elements is illustrated in fig. 90. The applicator 450 includes a handle 452 with an internal cannula 454 connected thereto. The motor 456 is supported within the inner sleeve 454 by a spring 458. Motor 456 includes a rotating shaft 460 and an eccentrically mounted hammer 462 connected thereto. A switch 464 and a battery 466 are operatively connected to the motor 456. The hollow stem 468 is sized to receive the free end of the spring 458. The stem 468 includes a socket 470 sized to rotatably receive the applicator head 472 such that the applicator head 472 is free to rotate relative to the stem 468. A cover 469 may be provided to close the space between the inner sleeve 454 and the opposite end of the stem 468. In operation, rotation of the motor 456 generates a rotational force that is isolated from the handle 452 by one end of the spring 458 and transferred to the stem 468 by the other end of the spring 458. The spring 458 allows the stem 468 to translate radially (i.e., move in a circular path without rotation relative to the inner sleeve 454). The applicator head 472, in turn, is free to rotate relative to the stem 468. As a result, the applicator 450 is able to impart a compound motion to the applicator head 472 that includes a radial translation component, a vibrational component, and/or a rotational component.

In the embodiment illustrated in fig. 89 and 90, the spring, motor, and eccentric weight may be selected to produce the desired frequency and amplitude of applicator head movement. The spring may be matched to the motor and hammer so that it is energized at or near its natural frequency. When so matched, the motor force is amplified by the spring and transmitted to the applicator head, thereby reducing the electrical power required by the motor to produce a given displacement of the applicator head.

Fig. 93 illustrates another applicator 530 for imparting oscillating motion to an applicator head 532. Applicator 530 includes a handle 534. A toothed cam 536 is disposed in the housing and includes a sleeve 538. The stem 540 is connected to the toothed cam and carries the applicator head 532. The motor 542 includes a rotating shaft coupled to the sleeve 538. A battery 544 and a switch 546 are provided in the handle 534 and are operatively connected to the motor 542. In operation, the motor 542 rotates the cam 536 via teeth 548 formed in the housing to produce a composite coating head motion having a rotational component and a vibrational component. Vibrations are applied to the handle 534 to provide tactile feedback to the user.

Fig. 94A and 94B illustrate an applicator 550 for rotating and vibrating an applicator head 552. The applicator 550 includes a handle 554. The stem 556 includes a stem extension 558 that includes a support tab 560 and a tooth 562 adapted to engage a gear tooth 564 connected to the handle 554. The motor 566 is connected to the stem extension 558 and is operatively connected to the battery 570 and the switch 572. In operation, the motor 566 rotates the stem extension 558 to drive the teeth 562 through the gear teeth 564 to create an oscillating motion of the applicator head 552. The vibrations are transmitted through the handle 554 to provide tactile feedback to the user.

While some of the foregoing embodiments produce a vibrating applicator head motion, any of the applicators described herein may be modified to include a vibrator to provide sensory feedback to the user. Such a vibrator can be attached (rigidly or resiliently) to the handle to generate tactile vibrations. It has been found that vibrations generated in the range of 10Hz to 6kHz can be felt by the hand of a typical user.

The stems provided in the embodiments disclosed herein can be substantially rigid or substantially flexible as desired. Certain embodiments, such as those having a stem with a groove that engages a protrusion on the housing to convert axial stem motion to rotational motion, may perform better with a more rigid stem. Other embodiments, such as those that produce a motion of the vibrating applicator head, may benefit from a more flexible stem. In embodiments using a stem having greater flexibility, a rigid sleeve may be connected to the housing and extend around at least a portion of the stem to support the stem as desired.

More specifically, fig. 95 illustrates an applicator 580 having a flexible stem 582. The applicator includes a handle 584 having a motor 586 with a rotary motor shaft 588. Eccentric weight 590 is mounted on shaft 588. A battery 592 and a switch 594 are operatively connected to motor 586. Rotation of the eccentric weight 590 generates a force that is transmitted to the stem 582. The stem 582 is flexible enough to respond to this force by flexing back and forth, as shown in fig. 95. The illustrated stem displacement is exaggerated for clarity of understanding. The stem flexibility may be constant or may vary, such as varying with cross-sectional area or material density along the length of the stem 582.

The axial movement of the applicator head may be performed at a frequency that increases the dispensing of cosmetic material to the projecting tip. The applicator head 340 can include protrusions 342 that flex in response to axially downward and upward movement, as illustrated in fig. 82A and 82B, respectively. The axial movement may be specifically tuned to produce a harmonic motion of the protrusions to more effectively propel cosmetic material from the base of each protrusion 342 toward its tip.

The axially moving applicator head 350 may include protrusions having different flexibilities or hardnesses. As illustrated in fig. 83A-C, the applicator head 350 includes a first set of protrusions 352 having a relatively low durometer (or high flexibility) and a second set of protrusions 354 having a relatively high durometer (or low flexibility). The first set of projections 352 will flex downwardly in response to the axially upward movement of the applicator head 350 and upwardly in response to the axially downward movement of the applicator head 350, as illustrated in fig. 83B and 83C, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the first set of protrusions include more mass at their tips to promote flexibility, while the second set of protrusions are tapered to promote stiffness. Alternatively or additionally, the protrusions may be formed from different materials to create relative differences in stiffness and/or relative differences in flexibility.

The shape of each protrusion may also be adapted to an axially moving applicator head. Fig. 84 illustrates a projection 360 having a generally square root 362. The projection tapers from a large cross-sectional area at the root 362 to a small cross-sectional area at the free or apex 364. A series of indentations (e.g., dimples 366) are formed in the surface of the protrusion 360 to facilitate movement of the cosmetic product from the base 362 to the tip 364 as the protrusion 360 vibrates in the axial direction.

FIG. 85 illustrates another protrusion 370 adapted to promote flow of material from the root to the tip during axial vibration. The projection 370 includes a base 372 having a relatively large cross-sectional area and a tip 374 having a relatively small cross-sectional area. The surface of the projection 370 includes a series of laminations 376 to form a stepped profile. The laminations 376 form barb-shaped protrusions 378 that facilitate movement of the cosmetic product from the base 372 to the tip 374 as the protrusions 360 vibrate in the axial direction.

The applicator may include certain auxiliary features to enhance the value of use or user satisfaction. For example, the applicator may further include a heat source to apply heat to the applicator head to promote curling and lifting of the eyelashes. The applicator may include a sound circuit to generate noise during operation to alert a user when the applicator is in operation. Similarly, the applicator may include a secondary vibration source to provide a tactile indication to the user that the applicator is working and potentially enhance the user's perception of the utility of the applicator.

In addition to the electrical and mechanical actuators disclosed herein, the force for the motion of the applicator head may also be provided by sound waves. For example, a piezoelectric crystal may be provided for generating sound waves that vibrate the applicator head.

As illustrated in fig. 86, the applicator 380 may include a simple toggle control switch 382 to allow for quick and easy transition between forward and reverse rotation.

The applicator 390 can include first and second stems 392, 394 extending from opposite ends of a handle 396, as shown in fig. 87. The same or a different motor may power the second applicator head 394. The second applicator head 394 may have a second, different cosmetic product intended for use alone or in combination with the cosmetic provided to the first applicator head.

The applicator may have an applicator head or combined applicator head and stem that can be independently removed from the handle to allow multiple custom applicators to be used with the same handle. The removable applicator head or applicator head/stem combination may include a locking device. The applicator head may also be adapted to provide a combination of moving (i.e., rotating, axially moving, etc.) and stationary protrusions.

An applicator 600 having a stationary protrusion and a moving protrusion is illustrated in fig. 96 and 97A-C. The applicator 600 includes a handle 602. A hollow sleeve 604 is attached to the handle 602 and a stem 606 is disposed within the sleeve 604. A first set of protrusions 607 is attached to the sleeve 604 and a second set of protrusions 609 is attached to the stem 606. The magnet 608 is connected to the stem 606 by a spring 610 that can increase or dampen amplitude. An electromagnetic coil 612 is disposed within the housing and is capable of generating a magnetic field to attract or repel the magnet 608. A battery 614 and a switch 616 are operatively connected to the coil 612. In operation, the electromagnet periodically generates a magnetic field to axially oscillate the magnet 608. The movement of the magnet 608 is transmitted to the stem 606 by the spring 610, thereby moving the second set of protrusions 609 relative to the first set of protrusions 607. The pattern and relative position of the first and second sets of protrusions may vary, as illustrated in fig. 97A-C. In fig. 97A, the first set includes a row 620 of stationary projections, while the remaining projections are movable. Embodiments with three and four rows of immobilized protrusions are illustrated in fig. 97B and 97C, respectively.

All documents cited in the detailed description of the invention are, in relevant part, incorporated herein by reference. The citation of any document is not to be construed as an admission that it is prior art with respect to the present disclosure.

While particular embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims (10)

1. A device for applying a cosmetic product, the device comprising:

a handle;

a stem defining a longitudinal stem axis and having a first end and a second end, the first end being connected to the handle;

an applicator head connected to the second end of the stem; and

an actuator operatively connected to the applicator head for imparting a vibratory motion to the applicator head.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the actuator is selected from the group consisting of: an electromagnetic coil and an electric motor having a rotary motor shaft with an eccentric weight attached thereto.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the electromagnetic coil is configured to reciprocate the drive shaft in a linear direction and/or to generate a magnetic field, wherein the apparatus further comprises a magnet coupled to the applicator head and responsive to the magnetic field, and a power source intermittently coupled to the electromagnetic coil to initiate the oscillating motion of the applicator head.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising a drive coupling between the drive shaft and the applicator head that converts reciprocating motion of the drive shaft in a linear direction into oscillating motion of the applicator head.

5. The apparatus of claim 3 or 4, further comprising an elasticity booster coupled between the motor and the applicator head and having a natural frequency, wherein the actuator operates substantially at the natural frequency of the elasticity booster.

6. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the applicator head is supported for radial translation relative to the handle, and wherein rotation of the eccentric weight imparts a compound motion to the applicator head, the compound motion comprising a vibrational component and a radial translation component.

7. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the applicator head comprises a plurality of protrusions having at least one groove thereon.

8. The device of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the plurality of protrusions comprises a first set of protrusions having a first hardness and a second set of protrusions having a second hardness, wherein the first hardness is greater than the second hardness.

9. The device of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the actuator is further connected to a handle to provide a tactile vibratory signal to a user.

10. The device of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the vibrational motion is substantially parallel to the stem axis.