HK40015908A - Applicator system - Google Patents

Description

Applicator system

Technical Field

An applicator system is disclosed that includes a container and an applicator. The container is configured to contain a substance to be applied using the applicator. The container is further configured to support the applicator in an accessible orientation in use.

Background

Cosmetic, therapeutic and pharmaceutical creams, ointments and lotions can be held in a barrel container. When a cream, ointment, or lotion is accessed by hand (e.g., spooned), the cream, ointment, or lotion may become contaminated. For example, contamination may occur when cream is repeatedly applied to an infant during diaper changes. In addition, for barrel containers, an accessible cream, ointment or lotion is applied to the user's hand. This may not always be desirable, for example, where the cream is waterproof and therefore not easily washed off.

One known solution to the problem of contamination and handling is to apply a cream, ointment or lotion to the skin of the user using a spatula. After use, the end of the spatula is then wiped clean with a disposable napkin/wipe.

The above reference to background art does not constitute an admission that the background art forms part of the common general knowledge of a person of ordinary skill in the art. The above references are also not intended to limit the application of the containers and applicators disclosed herein.

Disclosure of Invention

An applicator system is disclosed herein. The system includes a container and an applicator. The container may be configured to contain a substance (e.g., a cream, ointment, or lotion, such as a cosmetic, therapeutic, or pharmaceutical cream, ointment, or lotion). The substance may be applied using an applicator. The container may also be configured to support the applicator in an accessible orientation during use.

The applicator may be presented for easy access by the user, and may be used to apply a substance rather than relying on application, for example, by hand. This prevents contamination of the substance and coating of the user's hands.

In one embodiment, the container may comprise a first chamber open at an end thereof (e.g. an upper end in use). The first chamber may receive and position at least the movable end of the applicator therein. The first chamber may also maintain the applicator in an accessible orientation during use. For example, the movable end of the applicator may be used to access and apply a substance (e.g., a cream, ointment, or lotion) contained in the container. The free end may remain in the first chamber before or after use without further contamination or handling. The active end may also be cleaned, wiped, wrapped, and/or sterilized prior to replacement of the active end in the first chamber and/or prior to reuse of the active end.

In one embodiment, the container may further comprise a second chamber arranged to receive and retain therein a substance (e.g., a cream, ointment or lotion of a cosmetic, therapeutic, pharmaceutical, etc.). In use, only the movable end of the applicator may contact the substance.

In one embodiment, the applicator may be configured to be elongated. For example, the applicator may be configured to have an elongated brush-like or pen-like form.

In one embodiment, the first chamber may be configured such that the opposite (e.g. handle) end of the applicator may protrude from said first chamber in an accessible direction in use. For example, the applicator may be configured to have a length such that, for example, a graspable portion of the applicator protrudes from and beyond the open end of the first chamber, such as when the movable end is at the base of the first chamber.

In one embodiment, the first chamber and the applicator may each have a configuration such that the applicator may stand within the first chamber (e.g., in a generally upright configuration). This may help facilitate access and grasping of the handle end of the applicator.

In one embodiment, the movable end of the applicator may be configured for contacting, holding, and applying a substance held in the container. For example, the movable end of the applicator may include a pad, brush, or flexible (e.g., elastomeric) paddle-like head.

In one embodiment, the first chamber may be adjacent to the second chamber.

In one embodiment, the first chamber may be surrounded by the second chamber. In another embodiment, the first chamber may define a section located within the container and adjacent to a wall of the container.

In either case, the inner wall of the second chamber may define all or a portion of the outer wall of the first chamber (e.g., the first and second chambers may share a common wall).

In one embodiment, the second chamber may define an annular space having a volume surrounding the first chamber. In this case, the first chamber may define a tubular shape. The volume of the annular space may hold the substance. The tubular configuration of the first chamber may be optimized to receive and support an applicator positioned therein (e.g., the tubular configuration has a length and an effective diameter to support a sufficient portion of the applicator, including supporting the movable end at the base of the first chamber). In this regard, the elongate applicator may stand within the tube of the first chamber in a generally upright configuration.

In one embodiment, the container may further comprise a lid. The lid may be configured to close the second chamber in use to enclose the substance therein. The cover may also be configured such that when the cover closes the second chamber, the cover does not close the open end of the first chamber (or at least the cover does not close the open end to hinder insertion and removal of the applicator). Thus, the applicator can be held in an accessible orientation.

In one embodiment, the lid may be hingedly connected to the outer wall of the container. This may pivot the lid between the closed position and the open position. For example, when the cap is opened, the movable end of the applicator can access the substance in the second chamber.

In one embodiment, the lid may be held closed by a catch. The catch may be located at the in-use upper end of the container. Further, the catch may be configured for manual activation for release from the lid. When the catch is so released, the lid may pivot from the closed position.

In one embodiment, the catch may retain a depressible button therein. For example, the button may allow the capture to be disengaged from the cover without contamination (e.g., the button may be engaged by an uncontaminated or uncoated finger or a handle end of the applicator). The latch of the catch may be released from the lid by pressing the button, whereby the lid can be pivoted away from the closed position.

In one embodiment, the cover may be spring loaded. Thus, once the catch is released from the lid, the spring may pivot the lid to the open position. In other words, this may enhance lid release in a manner that further reduces the likelihood of contamination.

In one embodiment, the catch may be formed as part of (e.g. form part of) a component arranged to be mounted at the upper end of the container. This means that the catch can be formed separately from the rest of the container. This in turn may mean that the remainder of the container may have a volume for the substance that is not invaded or disturbed by the catch. In other words, the volume of the substance in the container can be maximized.

In one embodiment, the means for the upper end of the container may comprise a first ring structure (i.e. may be formed separately from the remainder of the container, for example by moulding). The catch may extend inwardly from the first ring structure and the first ring structure may cover the second chamber when the first ring structure is mounted to the upper end of the vessel. In this way, the trap does not intrude or interfere with the volume of the substance that can be held in the second chamber of the container.

The first ring structure may be secured (e.g., by screw-on mounting, bayonet fitting, adhesive securement, etc.) to the upper end of the container. In this regard, the first ring structure may have an internally formed thread arranged to be screw-mounted with an externally formed thread arranged at an upper end of the container.

In one embodiment, the component may further comprise a second ring structure. The second ring structure may be positioned at and around the open upper end of the first chamber (i.e., when the first ring structure is secured to the upper end of the vessel). The catch may extend between the first ring structure and the second ring structure. The capture may connect the first ring structure to the second ring structure. As will be explained in further detail below, the second ring structure may provide an additional support function for the catch. This, in turn, may help prevent the lid from being opened inadvertently (e.g., when the container is partially or fully emptied and a force is applied to the container).

In one embodiment, the catch may include a catch structure (i.e., a component for holding the catch). The trap structure may be integral with the first ring structure so as to extend inwardly therefrom and such that, in use, the trap structure covers the second chamber. The catch formation may be formed integrally with the second ring structure so as to extend outwardly therefrom, also such that the catch formation covers the second chamber in use. The elements of the catch (i.e., the depressible button and latch) may be retained within the catch structure during use.

In one embodiment, the means for the upper end of the container (e.g. at the first ring structure) may further comprise an external mounting for the hinge of the lid. The outer mount may comprise, for example, two small rings molded integrally with the component (e.g., with the first ring structure). The outer mount may receive the shaft of the hinge in use. In this way, the hinge may be separated from the rest of the container.

A container for use with the above system is also disclosed. The container comprises a first chamber which is open at its end (e.g. at the upper end in use). The first chamber is arranged to receive and locate at least the movable end of the applicator therein and is arranged to hold the applicator in an accessible orientation in use. The container further comprises a second chamber arranged to receive and retain therein a substance to be contacted, in use, by the movable end of the applicator.

The container may be configured such that the second chamber completely surrounds the first chamber. As mentioned above, this means that the second chamber may have a volume for the substance that is not invaded or disturbed (e.g. by a trap, etc.). In other words, the volume of the substance in the second chamber may be maximized. Furthermore, as described above, other components of the container (e.g., catches, latches, lids, etc.) do not intrude or interfere with the volume of the substance that can be held in the second chamber. This configuration also simplifies the manufacture of the container (i.e. simpler mould, fewer moving parts) and filling of the container and simplifies access to the substance in use.

As described above for the system, the container may be otherwise configured.

Drawings

Embodiments of a system comprising a container and an applicator according to the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

fig. 1A and 1B show front and rear perspective views, respectively, of a first embodiment of a container and applicator of the system, with the container in a (lid) closed configuration;

fig. 2A and 2B show front and rear perspective views, respectively, of a first embodiment of a container and applicator, with the container in an open (lid) configuration;

3A-3C show perspective views of a first embodiment of a lid, catch and mounting structure for the container of FIGS. 1 and 2, respectively, with the catch in an exploded configuration in FIG. 3A, the catch including a latch therein in FIG. 3B, and the catch being assembled in FIG. 3C;

fig. 4A and 4B show side and cross-sectional side views, respectively, of a first embodiment of a container and applicator, with the container again in a lid closed configuration;

fig. 5A and 5B show a rear perspective view and detail, respectively, of a first embodiment of a container and applicator, with the container again in a lid closed configuration, and showing a rear hinge configuration of the lid;

fig. 6A and 6B show front and rear exploded perspective views, respectively, of a first embodiment of a container and applicator, wherein detail a shows a latch of a catch, detail B shows a mounting support of the catch, and detail C shows a hinge pin of a cover hinge;

figures 7A and 7B show perspective views of a second embodiment of the container, respectively, in a (lid) closed configuration and in an (lid) open configuration; and

fig. 8A and 8B show perspective and plan views, respectively, of a second embodiment of a catch and mounting structure for a container, and fig. 8C and 8D show the catch and mounting structure of fig. 8A and 8B, and associated cover, similar to that shown in fig. 6A and 6B, in place on the container.

Detailed Description

Referring initially to fig. 1-6, a first embodiment of an applicator system is shown, comprising: a container in the form of a modified tub container, hereinafter referred to as "tub" 10; and an applicator in the form of an ergonomically shaped and sized elongated brush 12 for use with the bucket 10.

This system enables the brush 12 to be supported in an accessible orientation during use, and also prevents a user from inadvertently touching the contents of the bucket 10. The system may further prevent inadvertent contamination of the brush 12. In addition and as best shown in fig. 6A and 6B, the components of the cartridge 10 are configured such that the annulus for retaining material in the cartridge 10 is maximized. This will be explained in further detail below.

The movable end 14 of the brush 12 is formed to be able to access, contact and then apply a substance (e.g., a cosmetic, therapeutic or pharmaceutical cream, ointment or lotion) held in the barrel 10. The movable brush end 14 may comprise a porous or pad-like polymer foam material, a brush (e.g., synthetic or natural hair/fibers), or a flexible (e.g., polymeric or elastomeric) paddle-like head.

The components of the tub 10 are typically injection molded from a plastic material. Each component may use the same or different plastics. For example, the plastic may comprise a gas-assisted polypropylene which can be injected into the mould so as to suitably define a varying wall thickness throughout the components of the pail in and throughout the mould. Moreover, the use of such plastics can produce high quality finishes.

As best shown in fig. 6A and 6B, the bucket 10 includes a base portion 15, the base portion 15 being configured to hold the substance and the brush 12. In this regard, the base portion 15 includes a first chamber in the form of a central tubular recess 16. The pocket 16 is open at its upper end 18 and closed at its base. As best shown in fig. 4B, 6A and 6B, the recess 16 may receive and position the movable brush end 14 of the brush 12 and a portion of the elongated handle 20 of the brush 12 therein. As best shown in fig. 1 and 4A, when the movable brush end 14 is at the base of the recess 16, the handle 20 is of a length such that a substantial portion thereof can protrude from and beyond the open end 18 of the recess 16. This orientation facilitates easy access and manipulation of the brush 12 during use.

The movable brush end 14 remains in the recess 16 both before and after use and is not contaminated and operationally affected. The movable brush end 14 may be cleaned, wiped, wrapped and/or sterilized prior to replacement of the movable brush end 14 in the recess 16 and/or prior to reuse of the movable brush end. The base of the tubular recess 16 may optionally retain a disinfectant. The recess 16 may also include a protruding flange, grip or clip that engages a portion of the brush (e.g., clipped onto the handle 20) such that the brush is spaced just above the base of the recess 16.

The brush 12 is selected and designed to have a configuration, i.e., a sufficient length and width, such that the brush is able to generally stand upright within the recess 16. In this regard, the tubular configuration of the recess 16 is optimized to receive and support a substantial portion of the handle 20 of the brush 12 therein, but also to allow a sufficient length of the handle 20 to protrude beyond the recess 16 for easy access/grasping by a user.

The base portion 15 further comprises a second chamber in the form of an annular body 22 arranged to receive and retain a substance therein. As best shown in fig. 6A and 6B, the ring-shaped body 22 is positioned adjacent to the tubular profile of the pocket 16 and so as to completely surround and thereby define the tubular profile of the pocket 16 (i.e., the ring-shaped body 22 defines an annular space having a volume surrounding the pocket 16). Thus, the walls of the pocket 16 provide an inner wall (i.e., a common wall) for the ring body 22, thereby providing maximum compactness and maximum utilization of space in the base portion 15.

This also means that the annular body 22 has a volume for the substance that is not subject to intrusion or interference (e.g., immersion or interference of the cover, the cover trap, the cover hinge, etc.). In other words, the volume of the substance to be positioned in the annular volume 22 can be maximized. The final configuration of the base portion 15 is to simplify the manufacture of that portion of the tub 10 (i.e., a simpler mold, with fewer moving parts). In addition, the base portion 15 can be easily filled with a substance before fixing a cover or the like thereto. Moreover, access to the substance in use may be improved using the entire annular body 22, wherein the brush movable end 14 can be manipulated to enter all portions of the annular body 22.

As also shown in fig. 6A and 6B, the outer upper end of the base portion 15 includes threads 24 formed on the exterior for releasably attaching a cover mounting structure, as will be described below.

In this regard, the bucket 10 also includes a lid mounting structure in the form of a removable mounting ring 26. The mounting ring 26 includes all of the structure required to secure the cover to the base portion 15, as described below. In other words, the base portion 15 may have a configuration as simple as possible. The inner lower part of the mounting ring 26 has an internal thread 28, wherein the thread 28 corresponds to the thread 24, so that the mounting ring 26 is releasably screw-mounted to the base part 15. The mounting ring 26 also includes an integrally molded catch structure 29 that projects into the ring and is described below.

The lid 30 of the tub 10 can be hingeably attached to the mounting ring 26 at a hinge assembly 31. In this regard and as best shown in fig. 5B, the mounting ring 26 includes two spaced apart and integrally molded ring structures 32 that serve as hinge supports for the cap 30. The rear of the cap 30 includes two corresponding, spaced apart and integrally molded ring structures 34 configured to be located externally of the ring structure 32. The rear of the cap 30 also has a central projection 35 arranged to be located between the ring structures 32, as shown. The holes through the rings 32, 34 align to provide a passage for a hinge pin 36 to be inserted through the holes (see also fig. 6B and detail C).

As shown in detail C of fig. 6, the hinge pin 36 includes an enlarged portion 37 on its shank 38, the enlarged portion 37 being spaced from the head 39 of the pin along the shank. During insertion of the pin 36, the enlarged portion 37 passes through one of the ring structures 34 with interference (i.e., deforms the ring structure) and in order to subsequently retain the ring structure 34 on the shank 38 (i.e., between the enlarged portion 37 and the head 39 of the pin). This secures the pin in the hinge. During pin insertion, a double acting helical spring (not shown) is arranged on the shank 38 so as to be positioned below the intermediate projection 35 and between the ring structures 32. The spring is arranged and configured to bias the cover 30 into the open position, as shown in fig. 2A and 2B.

As mentioned above, the mounting ring 26 also includes a molded-in catch structure 29 that projects into the ring. When the ring 26 has been screwed onto the base part 15, the catch formations 29 cover the annular body 22 so as to enclose a portion of said annular body (see, for example, fig. 2B). In addition, the inner edge of the catch formation 29 may rest on the upper end of the wall of the tubular recess 16. As best shown in fig. 1A and 1B, the cover 30 is also configured to enclose the remainder of the annular body 22 (i.e., the remainder not covered by the catch structure 29). In this regard, the inner rim 33 of the lid may rest on the remainder of the upper end of the wall of the tubular recess 16. Furthermore, the outer rim of the cover rests on the outer wall of the base portion 15 so as to enclose the substance within the annular body 22 of the tub 10.

The catch structure 29 is formed to include a centrally formed and integrally formed socket 40 which projects upwardly from the base of the structure (see detail B in figures 3A and 6). In addition, two spaced apart, opposed seats 42 are disposed at opposite sides of the trap structure 29 and within the trap structure 29 so as to project upwardly therefrom. The socket 40 cooperates with the seat 42 to retain and support a deflectable latch plate 44 (which is typically a deflectable wear member and fatigue resistant metal) at the socket. As shown in fig. 3A and 3B and detail a of fig. 6, the latch plate 44 has a central aperture 46 that interferingly receives the socket 40 therein. The opposite ends of the latch plate 44 then rest on the seat 42 so as to straddle and be supported by the seat 42. The opposite end of the latch plate 44 also includes a latch ledge 48. When the latch plate 44 is secured in the catch structure 29, each lug 48 is arranged to protrude from a respective aperture 50 in a respective side wall of the catch structure 29 (see detail B in fig. 3C and 6).

Each protruding lug 48 is now able to latchingly engage with the lid 30. In this regard, to enable latching engagement to occur, the cover 30 is provided with a cut-out section 52 which corresponds in shape to the catch formation 29. The cut-out section 52 is configured to closely receive the catch formation 29 therein when the lid 30 is closed.

It should be noted that the cover 30 is also configured such that, when the cover 30 acts with the catch arrangement 29, it closes the annular body 22, without closing the open end 18 of the recess 16, at least without obstructing brush access (i.e. without obstructing insertion and removal of the brush 12 (see e.g. fig. 1A and 1B).

Each side wall 54 of the cut-out section 52 has a corresponding slot 55 formed therein, wherein the slot is arranged to latchingly receive a respective latch lug 48 therein (i.e., when the lid is closed, as shown in fig. 1A and 1B). Each slot 55 is defined above a notch 56 that is centered in its respective sidewall 54 (see, e.g., fig. 3A-3C).

The catch arrangement 29 also holds a depressible button 60 in its place. The button 60 has a depression 62 in which a user's finger is received in use. The opposite side walls of the button 60 each include spaced apart laterally projecting guide lugs 64 (see fig. 3A and 6B) molded therewith. When the push button 60 is pressed into position in the catch formation 29, each guide lug 64 is urged to be positioned in a respective vertical channel 66 (see detail B in fig. 3C and 6), each of which is defined in a respective, closely facing side wall of the catch formation 29. Once so positioned, the button 60 lands on and is supported by the deflectable latch plate 44.

In use, when the button 60 is depressed, the guide lugs 64 each cycle down in their respective channels 66 and the central portion of the latch plate 44 is also caused to deflect downwardly. However, the ends of the latch plates 44 do not deflect downward because they rest on their respective seats 42. In practice, these ends are deflected slightly upwards. This in turn causes each latching lug 48 to be withdrawn into its respective aperture 50 and out of latching engagement with the corresponding slot 55 of the lid 30. The cover 30 is now released so that it can pivot upwardly and away by the action of its spring loaded hinge. The cartridge 10 is now opened (fig. 2A and 2B) and the substance held therein is accessible.

After use, when the lid is manually closed by a user, notches 56 in the side walls 54 of the lid 30 enable the lid to move past the latching lugs 48 until the lugs are deflected and aligned for re-latching with the corresponding slots 55 of the lid.

Referring now to fig. 7A and 7B, where like reference numerals are used to designate similar or identical components, a second embodiment of an applicator system is shown which includes a container in the form of another modified barrel container (hereinafter barrel 100). In fig. 7A and 7B, the applicator in the form of a brush 12 is removed for clarity.

The bucket 100 is identical to the bucket 10 in many respects. However, in the bucket 100, the base portion 15 is modified to take the form of an integral bucket base portion 115. In the base bottom 115, the tubular recess 16 is not merely upstanding from the base bottom. But rather the tubular recess 16 is connected to the remainder of the foundation base bottom 115 via the support wall 110. This means that the annular body 22 does not extend completely around the tubular recess 16, wherein the annular body 22 is interrupted by the support wall 110. Thus, the available volume of material is reduced.

In addition, the bucket 100 does not employ a separate mounting ring 26. But rather the upper edge of the base 115 is defined by the notched circumferential region 105. The cover 30 closes around the slotted region 105 and into the slotted region 105, as shown in fig. 7A. Additionally, the catch structure 29 is integrally mounted with the notched area 105. Thus, the button 60 extends above and between the support walls 110.

In most other respects, the operation and function of the bucket 100 is the same as that of the bucket 10 described above.

Referring now to fig. 8A-8D, where like reference numerals are used to refer to similar or identical components, a second embodiment of a catch structure and mounting structure in the form of a modified mounting ring 86 is depicted. Fig. 8C and 8D show the modified mounting ring 86 of fig. 8A and 8B and associated cover 30, when in place on the base portion 15, much like that shown in fig. 6A and 6B.

In fig. 8A and 8B, a modified removable mounting ring 86 is shown that is very similar to the removable mounting ring 26 shown in fig. 3A-3C. Accordingly, the same reference numerals will be used to designate parts similar or identical to those shown in fig. 3A to 3C, and these parts will not be described in detail.

In this regard, the modified mounting ring 86 also includes each of the structures necessary to secure the cover 30 to the base portion 15 of the bucket 10. Again, this means that the base part 15 can have as simple a construction as possible. In this regard, the inner lower portion of the mounting ring 86 has internal threads 28 to enable the mounting ring 86 to be releasably screw-mounted to the base portion 15. The mounting ring 86 also includes an integrally molded catch structure 29 that projects inwardly of the ring 86.

However, according to a modification to the mounting ring 86, the mounting ring further comprises a second ring structure in the form of a support ring 88. As best shown in fig. 8A and 8B, a support ring 88 is attached to the underside of the inward distal end of the catch structure 29 (e.g., the support ring may be molded integrally with the catch structure 29). As shown in fig. 8C and 8D, a support ring 88 can be positioned at and around the open upper end 18 of the tubular recess 16 (i.e., once the mounting ring 86 has been secured (i.e., screwed) to the base portion 15 of the tub 10). For example, the support ring 88 may be configured (e.g., sized) to be press-fit or push-fit (e.g., press-fit or interference fit) onto the upper end 18 of the tubular pocket 16. Additionally, an adhesive may be used to secure the support ring 88 to the upper end 18 of the tubular recess 16.

Thus, the catch formation 29 extends between the mounting ring 86 and the support ring 88. Once the mounting ring 86 has been mounted to the base portion 15, the catch formation 29 can form a "bridge" between the tubular recess 16 and the base portion 15. The bridge may provide additional support to the catch structure 29, and thus to the components of the catch (i.e., socket 40, seat 42, latch plate 44, and button 60). This additional support function, in turn, may help prevent the lid 30 from being opened inadvertently, such as when the base portion 15 of the tub 10 is partially or completely emptied and when a force (e.g., a bump, blow, squeeze, etc.) is applied to the side walls of the base portion 15 that may inadvertently open the lid 30.

In each of the tub 10 and the tub 100, the button 60 may be pressed by a user's finger or the distal end of the handle 20 (i.e., the distal end of the user's finger or handle that is generally free of contaminants or substances). Furthermore, because the hinge spring pivots the cover 30 to the open position, the user does not need to manually remove the cover using fingers or hands that may be contaminated or coated with the substance, thus further reducing the likelihood of contamination.

When the cover 30 is opened, the user can still easily access and operate the disposal brush 12. The movable brush end 14 may be dipped into a substance and then applied by a user (e.g., to another person such as an infant, child, elderly person, etc., or to himself). Thereafter, the movable brush end 14 can be repositioned in the recess 16 and free of contamination. The movable brush end 14 may be cleaned, wiped, wrapped, and/or sterilized prior to replacing the recess 16 and/or prior to reuse.

Having now described a number of embodiments, it should be understood that many variations and/or modifications may be made to the disclosed embodiments.

For example, the tub 10, 100 may be reshaped whereby the pocket 16 is defined as a section located adjacent to a wall of the tub. The lid 30 may be reshaped accordingly. The bucket may be square, rectangular, etc. The cover 30 can be mounted and pivoted without spring activation.

In another example, the catch structure 29 and/or mounting ring 26 may be molded or over-molded with the tub, rather than being formed as separate parts to be mated during assembly.

The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

In the preceding description of the appended claims and applicator system, unless the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the applicator system.

Claims (20)

1. An applicator system comprising a container and an applicator, the container being configured to contain a substance to be applied using the applicator, the container further being configured to support the applicator in an accessible orientation in use.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the container comprises:

a first chamber open at an end thereof, the first chamber being arranged to receive and locate at least a mobile end of the applicator therein and arranged to hold the applicator in an accessible orientation in use;

a second chamber arranged to receive and retain therein the substance to be contacted by the movable end of the applicator in use.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the applicator is elongated, and wherein the first chamber and the applicator each have a configuration such that when the movable end is at the base of the first chamber, an opposite end of the applicator can protrude from and beyond the upper end of the opening of the first chamber.

4. A system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the first chamber and the applicator each have a configuration such that the applicator is substantially erectable within the first chamber.

5. The system of any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the movable end of the applicator is configured for contacting, holding, and applying the substance held in the container.

6. The system of any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the first chamber has one or both of the following characteristics:

the first chamber is adjacent to the second chamber;

the first chamber is surrounded by the second chamber.

7. The system of any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the second chamber defines an annular space having a volume surrounding the first chamber, whereby the first chamber is defined as tubular.

8. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 7, further comprising a lid configured to close the second chamber in use so as to enclose the substance therein.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the lid is further configured such that when the lid closes the second chamber, the lid does not close the open end of the first chamber, whereby the applicator can be maintained in an accessible orientation.

10. The system of claim 8 or 9, wherein the lid is hingedly connected to an outer wall of the container and is pivotable between a closed position and an open position.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the lid is held closed by a catch positioned at an in-use upper end of the container, the catch being configured for manual activation for release from the lid, whereby the lid can be pivoted away from the closed position.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the catch is configured to retain a depressible button therein, depression of the button causing a latch of the catch to release from the lid, whereby the lid can pivot away from the closed position.

13. The system of claim 11 or 12, wherein the cover is spring loaded, whereby upon release of the catch from the cover, the spring causes the cover to pivot to the open position.

14. System according to any of claims 11-13, wherein the catch is formed as part of a component arranged to be mounted at the upper end of the container.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the component comprises a first ring structure securable to the upper end of the vessel, such as by a screw-on installation, the catch extending inwardly from the first ring structure and covering the second chamber.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the catch comprises a catch structure integrally formed with the first ring structure to extend inwardly from the first ring structure so as to cover the second chamber in use, the depressible button and latch being retained within the catch structure.

17. The system of claim 15 or 16, wherein the component further comprises a second ring structure positionable at and around the upper end of the opening of the first chamber when the first ring structure is secured to the upper end of the vessel, the catch extending between and connecting the first ring structure to the second ring structure.

18. The system of any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the means for the upper end of the container further comprises an external mounting for a hinge of a lid.

19. A container for use with the system of any one of the preceding claims, the container comprising:

a first chamber open at an end thereof, the first chamber being arranged to receive and locate at least a mobile end of an applicator therein and to hold the applicator in an accessible orientation in use;

a second chamber arranged to receive and retain therein a substance to be contacted by the movable end of the applicator in use, wherein the second chamber completely surrounds the first chamber.

20. A container according to claim 19, as defined in any one of claims 1 to 18.