Matchsticks For Cosmetics

Abstract

This disclosure is directed to a container with a base for housing matchstick applicators having a cover to fold over the base. In some embodiments, a closure may be attached to the cover and to the base to secure the cover to the base. Furthermore, each matchstick applicator includes a top portion that retains a product and a bottom portion that attaches to a holder. The cover is selectively pivotable relative to the base between an open position in which the plurality of applicators is accessible, from which an applicator is severably removable from the comb-like arrangement and a closed position in which the cover being protective of the plurality of applicators. The applicators are used to apply products such as a lipstick, a lip liner, a fragrance, an eye shadow, an eye liner, a mascara, a brow pencil, a brow gel, a concealer, or a blush.

Description

BACKGROUND

Containers exist for dispensing cosmetics, medicinal, food, household, or other type products. The containers usually consist of an outer housing, a delivery mechanism for dispensing the different types of products, and in some instances an applicator for applying the products. For example, in various industries, containers with applicators are employed for applying powder, gel, creams, lotions, and fragrances. In the cosmetics and personal care industries, the containers store the products and individuals use the applicators to apply lipstick, eye shadow, and other cosmetic products to portions of their face or body.

Many of these containers are designed for home use. Thus, the containers may not be easily transportable, requiring more storage space than what is available in a purse, a backpack, or a pocket of clothing. If the individual wants to touch up their makeup or perfume during the day and/or to change to another product, the individual would need to carry several containers, one for each of the various products for application or reapplication during the day. Another problem is that current airline regulations limit the amount of liquids and gels that individuals may bring aboard an airplane. Accordingly, there remains a need for improved packages for carrying and applying products.

SUMMARY

This summary is provided to introduce simplified concepts of containers with applicators, which are further described below in the Detailed Description.

The disclosure describes cosmetics containers with applicators that contain cosmetic products. In one example, a matchbook cosmetics container includes a base having a back surface and two sidewalls defining a compartment, the compartment housing a plurality of matchstick applicators. Each matchstick applicator includes a top portion for containing a product and a bottom portion being severably attached to a holder. The matchbook cosmetics container includes a cover pivotably coupled to the base, the cover being selectively pivotable relative to the base between an open position in which the plurality of matchstick applicators is accessible, and from which a matchstick applicator is severably removable from the holder, and a closed position in which the cover wraps around and contacts the sidewalls to protect the plurality of applicators in the compartment. The matchbook cosmetics container further includes a closure attached to the cover and to a front portion of the base to secure the cover to the base in the closed position.

In another example, a cosmetic fragrance container includes a base holding a plurality of elongated applicators, the plurality of elongated applicators being removably coupled to the base and retaining a cosmetic fragrance. The cosmetic fragrance container includes a cover pivotably coupled to the base to protect the elongated applicators while in a closed position and to allow access to the elongated applicators when in an open position.

In yet another example, a cosmetics container includes a base having a back surface and two side walls defining a compartment with a replaceable insert disposed in the compartment. The cosmetics container further includes a plurality of cosmetic applicators removably coupled to the replaceable insert, each cosmetic applicator of the plurality of cosmetic applicators retaining a cosmetic product. In addition, the cosmetics container includes a cover pivotably coupled to the base, the cover wrapping around and contacting the side walls to protect the plurality of cosmetic applicators in the compartment.

The features, functions, and advantages that have been discussed above or will be discussed below can be achieved independently in various embodiments, or may be combined in yet other embodiments, further details of which can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The detailed description is set forth with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The use of the same reference numbers in different figures indicates similar or identical items.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example container with example applicators, with a cover raised in an open position.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the example container of FIG. 1, with the cover in a closed position.

FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B are rear elevation and side elevation views, respectively, of an example container.

FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of the example container of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another example container.

FIG. 6 illustrates perspective views of top portions of five example applicators.

FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B illustrate front elevation views of example applicators aligned in a row.

FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B illustrate front elevation views of varying heights of applicators and different types of example applicators, respectively.

FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B illustrate front elevation views of varying heights of three types of example applicators and rows of arrangements, respectively.

FIG. 10A, FIG. 10B, and FIG. 10C illustrate front elevation views of example applicators, illustrating techniques of removing the example applicators from holders.

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of an interior of an example container having applicators according to an embodiment including removable inserts each insert having multiple applicators.

FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of an example closure according to an embodiment.

FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B illustrate perspective views of example closures for example containers.

FIG. 14A, FIG. 14B, FIG. 14C, and FIG. 14D illustrate perspective views of example fasteners for example containers.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Overview

This disclosure describes containers having multiple applicators retaining product(s) that is convenient to carry. The applicators include disposable or single-use applicators that are disposable after using the applicator to apply the product. In some examples, the container may include a matchbook-style container that folds over to enclose the applicators. In some examples, the container may be made of a permanent durable material that houses replaceable or refillable applicators that are disposable. Once all of the applicators have been used, new applicators may be inserted into a compartment of the container. In another example, the container itself and the applicators may be constructed of disposable materials. For instance, after all of the applicators have been removed and disposed, the container itself may be discarded. In another example, after all of the applicators have been removed and disposed, the disposable container may be refilled and later discarded. While the applicators are described throughout as being single use applicators, in other examples the applicators may be reusable a few or many times.

Each of the multiple applicators includes an application portion that retains a product for a single use and an attachment portion that attaches the applicator to a holder. In some examples, the product may be preloaded into or onto the application portion of each applicator prior to sale to a user. However, in other examples, the product may be disposed in a separate reservoir or pallet (not shown) in the container and may be applied to the application portion of the applicator by the user at the time of use. Examples of products that may be disposed on the applicators include cosmetic products, such as fragrances, medicinal products, personal care products, makeup, and other products designed to be applied to the face and/or body. The products may be in the form of, for example, liquids, gels, wax based products, creams, oil-based products, lotions, water-based products, powdered products, solid products, or the like. By way of example and not limitation, some specific cosmetic products that may be disposed on the applicators include lipstick, lip liner, eye shadow, eye liner, eye brow gel, fragrances or perfumes, blush, skin cream, and nail polish. While the application describes embodiments usable to apply cosmetic products, the containers described herein may also be used in connection with other products.

The discussion begins with a section entitled “Example Containers,” which describes non-limiting examples of containers in which applicators may be housed. A section entitled “Example Applicators” follows, and illustrates and describes types, structures, and arrangements of example applicators. A third section, entitled “Example Closures and/or Fasteners,” illustrates and describes example closures and/or fasteners usable for securing a cover to a base of a container, such as the containers described in the first section. Finally, the discussion ends with a brief conclusion.

This brief overview, including section titles and corresponding summaries, is provided for the reader's convenience and is not intended to limit the scope of the claims. The features of the described containers may be implemented in any number of forms. The example containers described herein are merely illustrative.

Example Containers with Example Applicators

FIGS. 1 to 5 illustrate example containers that may store example applicators for applying product(s).

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an example container 100 with example applicators, according to one embodiment. The illustrated configuration of the container 100 is only one example structure and/or arrangement. Many structures and/or arrangements of the illustrated components, or other similar components, are possible.

The example container 100 includes a base 102 with a compartment 104, a sidewall, and a front portion 106 along a lower front portion of the base 102. For illustrative purposes only, the front portion 106 is shown as stippling. The container 100 also includes a cover 108 that may be formed of a hard surface to protect the applicators.

The base 102 and the cover 108 may be constructed of materials including, but not limited to, leather, ceramic, metal, wood, paper, plastic, composites thereof, or the like. In some embodiments, the base 102 and/or the cover 108 may be made at least partially of a resin such as, for example, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), styrene acrylonitrile (SAN), pentachlorothioanisole (PCTA), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), Polyurethane, combinations thereof, or the like. In some embodiments, the base 102 may be constructed as a separate piece from the cover 108. While in other embodiments, the base 102 may be constructed with an attached cover 108 as one piece.

In some embodiments, the cosmetics container may comprise a matchbook style container. The cosmetics container may be made of cardboard or paper with a cover that folds over to substantially enclose a plurality of applicators that may appear like matchsticks. The cosmetics container houses the plurality of matchstick applicators that are arranged in one or more rows, such as a booklet style or a packet style matchbook. The matchstick applicators contain products, such as a fragrance, lipstick, eye shadow, other cosmetic products, or skin care products.

In this example, the container 100 includes a mirror 110 in an interior of the cover 108. The mirror 110 provides convenience for the user, to have the mirror 110 readily available when applying the product(s). The mirror 110 may cover the entire interior of the cover 108, one half area, or one third area of the cover 108. In another embodiment, the mirror 110 may be located on an exterior of the cover 108 or an exterior of the base 102. The mirror 110 may range in thickness from at least about 0.4 millimeters (mm) to at most about four mm. The mirror 110 may be constructed of materials including, but not limited to, glass, aluminum, silver, and the like. In various embodiments, the mirror 110 may be coupled to the cover 108 by adhesive, press fit, snap fit, one or more ribs or barbs, pouch, or pockets designed to receive parts (e.g., corners or edges) of the mirror, or any other suitable fastening means. In another embodiment, the container 100 may omit the mirror.

The container 100 houses or stores a plurality of applicators 112. In the embodiment shown, the holder may secure the plurality of applicators 112 into a position in the lower portion of the compartment 104 by adhesive, bonding, stapling, or any other suitable securing means. In other embodiments, the applicators 112 may be formed integrally with the base 102, the cover 108, for example. For instance, the front portion 106 may be adhered, bonded, or stapled to the holder or the front portion 106 may cover the holder only. In some embodiments, the applicators 112 may be severable from the holder by, for example, weakened sections of the applicators (e.g., perforated, scored, notched, etc.), non-weakened frangible sections of the applicators that are capable of being torn or broken (e.g., a normal paper match design), as well as separable features (e.g., posts) that support the applicators in the holder. In an embodiment, a post 114 may support a corresponding applicator 112 in the holder and may remain in the holder once a user separates the applicator 112 from the post 114 use. Thus, a plurality of posts supports a corresponding plurality of applicators 112 in the holder to appear visually like matchsticks in the holder, arranged in one or more rows (sometimes referred to herein as a comb-like structure) in a packet form or a booklet form. Details of the applicators 112 are discussed with reference to FIGS. 6-10.

In the illustrated example, the compartment 104 has a raised sidewall 105 that is of a certain depth that keeps the cover 108 from coming into contact with the plurality of applicators 112. The sidewall 105 helps to seal the container (e.g., to prevent introduction of contaminants, to prevent product from drying out or evaporating, to limit ability of a fragrance to escape the container, and the like). Furthermore, the sidewalls 105 help to protect the product during transportation or prior to use by creating a compartment. In addition, the sidewalls 105 help to hold the cover away from the product to prevent the cover from contacting or smearing the product prior to use.

In yet another embodiment, a wrap, such as wax paper, metal-foil, paper, or plastic may be included that covers or goes over the plurality of applicators 112 of the container 100. The wrap may be used to preserve the product on the plurality of applicators 112 (e.g., prevent evaporation, wear, smudging, or inadvertent application of the product) and to further prevent the product from coming into contact with the cover 108.

The cover 108 is pivotably coupled to the base 102, such that the cover 108 is selectively pivotable relative to the base 102 between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the user may access the plurality of applicators 112. In the closed position, the cover 108 is protective of the plurality of applicators 110 for storage and/or transportation. FIG. 1 illustrates the container 100 in the open position.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example container 200 in a closed position. As mentioned, the cover 108 may be selectively pivotable relative to the base 102. The cover 108 is raised or lifted up in the open position or open state, which may expose an applicator to be selectively removable from the plurality of applicators 112 to apply the product. The cover 108 is lowered in the closed position or closed state, which may cover the plurality of applicators 112. Thus, the cover 108 protects the applicators during storage and transportation. In some embodiments, the cover 108 may provide a substantially or partially air tight seal, while in other embodiments, the cover 108 may simply provide a protective cover.

In an embodiment, FIG. 2 illustrates a closure 202 attached to the cover 108 and connected to the base 102, as a way of keeping the cover 108 secured to the base 102 to prevent any accidental exposure of the plurality of applicators 112. The closure 116 may also be referred to as a fastener. Details of the types of closures and fasteners are discussed with reference to FIG. 12 to FIG. 15.

In another embodiment, the base 102 connects to the cover 108 of the container 100 by a hinge (not shown), which may be a device or a bearing. Typically, a hinge connects two parts or objects, allowing only a limited angle of rotation between the parts or objects. The hinge pivots relative to the base 102 and enables the cover 108 to be placed in an open or a closed position. The hinge is often used in constructing a container 100 made from durable materials such as ceramic, metal, wood, plastics, or composites. The container made of durable materials uses replaceable or refillable applicators.

FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B illustrate an example container 300 shown in a rear elevation view 302, and a side elevation view 304. Generally, example containers may have dimensions, such as ranging from at least about 25 millimeters (mm) to at most about 85 mm in height, ranging from at least about 30 mm to at most about 100 mm in width, and ranging from at least about 5 mm to at most about 40 mm in depth. In some embodiments, example containers may range from about 40 mm to about 60 mm in height, may range from about 50 mm to about 70 mm in width, and may range from about 7 mm to about 30 mm in depth. In one specific embodiment, FIG. 3A illustrates the example container 300 may have a height 306 from at least about 48 millimeters (mm) to at most about 58 mm and a width 308 from at least 55 mm to at most about 65 mm. FIG. 3B illustrates the container having a tapered profile ranging from a depth 310 of at least about 5 mm at one end to at most about 25 mm at another end. However, in other embodiments, containers according to this application may be larger or smaller in any dimension.

FIG. 4 illustrates the example container 300 of FIG. 3A in a top perspective view 312. FIG. 4 illustrates the height 306, the width 308, and the depth 310.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of another example container 500 used to house the plurality of applicators 112. The example container 500 may be constructed of durable material that stores the refillable or replaceable applicators. For example, in one embodiment, the container 500 may include at least a formed metal that is pressed, machined, casted, die cut, and/or molded. The metal may be exposed or may be covered with a soft or pliable material, such as plastic, leather, fabric or the like. Also, the container 500 may include a fastener 502 attached to the cover that latches to the base.

The containers shown in FIGS. 1 to 5 may include being constructed of disposable for single use or refillable applicators and/or durable permanent materials for refillable applicators. While various illustrative embodiments are described, the containers may be configured in any form suitable for housing the applicators. For example, the containers may be constructed in any other suitable shape and size and may have any suitable mass, surface finish, and/or surface treatment desired for a given application. In practice, the containers may be configured in virtually any desired shape or profile, such as substantially rectangular-shaped, substantially square-shaped, substantially round shaped, substantially oval shaped, trapezoidal, or the like.

Example Applicators to be stored in Example Containers

FIGS. 6 to 11 illustrate example applicators that may be stored in the example containers discussed with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5 or other containers. Some applicators include a top portion that retains product for applying to the face or the body and a base portion that attaches to a holder. The top portion may be constructed of materials that include, but are not limited to, cotton, paper, wood, plastic, natural fibers/hairs, metal, or composites of any of these. The base portion of the applicator may be constructed of materials that include, but are not limited to, a plastic material, a cardboard material, a wood material, a metal material, a glass material, a ceramic material, alloy materials, a Zamac material, or composites of any of these. In an example, the applicator may be formed of Zamac, which includes zinc as a base with alloying elements of aluminum, magnesium, and copper.

FIG. 6 illustrates perspective views 600 of top portions of example applicators. The top portions of the example applicators 112 may include but are not limited to, a brush 602, a powder puff 604, a sponge 606, a filament brush 608, or a comb brush 610 to apply the product. In some embodiments, the top portions of the example applicators 112 may further include a felt-tip or a cotton tip. The top portions may be used to apply composition of products including but not limited to, powdered products, waxes, gels oils, or lotion products, and the like. The material and type of the top portions being selected based on the product being applied.

In an embodiment, the powder puff 604 or the sponge 606 may retain powdered products, gels, oils, or lotions for applying lipstick, eye shadow, or a fragrance. In another embodiment, the filament brush 608 may retain wax based or gel products for applying mascara or brow gel. In yet another embodiment, the comb brush 610 may retain wax based or gel products for applying mascara, brow pencil, brow gel, or powdered fragrance.

In some embodiments, a wax based product or gel may be directly applied to an upper portion (i.e., the top portion) of a single applicator, without using additional materials. The individual applicator may be formed continuously with the top portion and with the handle, all molded the same. For instance, wax-based products or gel products for lipstick, fragrance, or eye makeup based may be deposited and retained on the upper portion of the application made of a wooden stick or a paper product. In an embodiment, single matchstick applicators with product on the top portions, may be sold separately (i.e., not attached with a holder). In yet another embodiment, the single matchstick applicators may be sold as loose matchsticks in a container.

While features of various illustrative embodiments are described, the top portion and the applicator may be configured in any form suitable for applying the product retained in the top portion of the applicator. For example, the top portion and the applicator may be constructed in any other suitable shape and size and may have any suitable mass, surface finish, and/or surface treatment desired for a given application. In practice, the top portion and the applicator may be configured in virtually any desired shape, such as substantially circular-shaped, substantially elliptical-shaped, substantially oval-shaped, substantially cylindrical-shaped, or the like.

Generally, the dimensions of example applicators include, but are not limited to, heights ranging from at least about 20 millimeters (mm) to at most about 80 mm and widths or diameters ranging from at least 3 mm to at most about 12 mm. The dimensions of the top portions may range in heights from about 5 mm to about 20 mm and the dimensions of the bottom portions may range in heights from about 15 mm to about 60 mm. In some embodiments, the dimensions of the applicators may range in heights from about 35 mm to about 55 mm and widths ranging from about 5 mm to about 10 mm. The shape, number, and size of the applicators in a packet, a booklet, or a set may be different in relation to each other.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate front elevation views of example applicators 700 aligned in a row. FIG. 7A illustrates example applicators 702 that are substantially cylindrical-shaped that may be arranged in a matchstick style. The applicators 702 attaches to a holder 704, which may be rectangular-shaped. In an embodiment, a wrap 706 may be used to wrap around or seal the applicators 702 to dispense the applicators 702, to prevent the scent of the fragrance from evaporating, to prevent the product from smudging, and to prevent any contact of the plurality of applicators 702 with other objects.

In an embodiment, the user removes an applicator 708 from the applicators 702 arranged in the matchstick style from the holder 704. Discussions of attachments and removals of the applicators follow with reference to FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C. The applicator 708 includes a height of about 40 mm, a top portion 710 of about 11 mm, a bottom portion 712 of about 29 mm, and at least about 4.5 mm in diameter.

FIG. 7B illustrates example applicators 714 having handles with top portions that are substantially oval-shaped. The applicators 714 may also be arranged in the comb-like structure in the matchstick style.

In an embodiment, the top portion of each applicator includes a sealer (not shown). The sealer may be formed of paper, wax paper, plastic, or metal-foil to seal the cosmetic product on the top portion of the applicator prior to use. In another embodiment, the top portion of each applicator includes a sealer that is configured to rub off upon use of the applicator. The sealer may be formed of a thin layer of wax that rubs and/or melts off during the first use.

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate front elevation views of applicators 800 having varying heights and different top portions. FIG. 8A illustrates example applicators 802 that are substantially cylindrical-shaped in varying heights. The configuration of the applicators 802 illustrates three different height dimensions, ranging from short to medium to tall height dimensions. Based on the height of the applicators 802, each group of applicators may retain a similar scent of fragrance based on one of the standard fragrance classifications of Floral, Oriental, Woody, and Fresh (sometimes Fougere).

In an embodiment, a set of short height applicators may retain a Fresh fragrance, a set of medium height applicators may retain a Floral fragrance, and a set of tall height applicators may retain a Woody fragrance. This is particularly desirable for the user to apply different fragrance scents based on the time of day, such as applying a Fresh fragrance in the morning, applying a Floral fragrance later in the day, and/or applying a Woody fragrance in the evening

FIG. 8B illustrates example applicators 804 that varies in height and shape that may be combined together in a packet. For example, the packet of elongated applicators may include applicators having a top portion with a substantially oval-shaped 806, 808, and other applicators having a substantially cylindrical-shaped 810. The applicators 804 may be arranged in a single row (as shown above in FIG. 8A) or in several rows, including but not limited to two, three, or four rows. The configuration illustrates the substantially oval-shaped 806 applicators with a shorter height dimension placed in a front row and the substantially oval-shaped 808 applicators with the taller height dimension placed in a back row. The configuration also illustrates the substantially cylindrical-shaped 810 applicators that may be used for fragrances, are all of the same height, placed in a front row and a back row.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate front elevation views of varying heights of types of example applicators 900 shown in example arrangements. FIG. 9A illustrates an example packet of applicators 902 that varies in heights and types of top portions. In an embodiment, the packet 902 may include three sets of applicators with the top portions: being substantially oval-shaped 904, being substantially cylindrical-shaped 906, and having a comb-brush shape 908. The configuration illustrates aligning the applicators in a row. The applicators of the oval-shaped 904 top portions and the cylindrical-shaped 906 top portions are narrower, which may be arranged closer together while the applicators of the comb-brush 908 top portions tend to be wider and may be spaced further apart.

In an embodiment, the sets of applicators may retain at least two or more products that are different from each other. For example, the top portions being substantially oval-shaped 904 may retain an eye shadow, the top portions being substantially cylindrical-shaped 906 may retain a fragrance, and the top portions having a comb-brush shape 908 may retain eye gel or mascara. Furthermore, the products may vary by having fragrance scents or pigments that are different from each other.

In some embodiments, the container may house applicators that include cosmetics for specific uses, such as cosmetics or fragrances for daytime wear or for evening wear. In other embodiments, the container may house applicators retaining particular types of scents based on fragrance classifications (e.g., musks, floral scents, etc.).

FIG. 9B illustrates an example set of applicators 910 that varies in height, the top portion being substantially oval-shaped. In another example, the set of applicators may be arranged in three separate rows where the applicators may all be of the same height. In an embodiment, the configuration of the applicators 910 may include a divider 912 to separate a first group of applicators from a second group of applicators. The divider 912 may be used to keep the products on the applicators from being transported to each other, such as the pigments of cosmetic products. For instance, pink blush may be retained on applicators on one side of the divider while brown eye shadow may be retained on the applicators located on the other side of the divider. In another example, two different types of fragrances may be used on each side of the divider to avoid mixing the oils or wax-bases of the two fragrances together. A single wrap 914 may be used to wrap the set of applicators or separate wraps may be used to wrap each side of the applicators. In another example, a wrap may be used as a layer to separate one row of applicators from another row, rather than enclose the applicators.

FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C illustrate front elevation views of example applicators 1000 being attached and severably removed from the holder.

FIG. 10A illustrates example applicators 1002 with corresponding example posts 1004 being attached to a holder 1006. Each applicator 1002 may be pivotably coupled to a corresponding post 1004 in the holder 1006 in the comb-like structure. Specifically, each applicator 1002 may be severably pivotable relative to the corresponding post 1004 between a separable position in which the applicator 1002 may be severably removable from the corresponding post 1004 to apply the product, and a storage position in which the applicator 1002 is selectively retainable with the post 1004. Severably removable includes separating, breaking, or snapping the applicator 1002 away from the post 1004.

FIG. 10B illustrates another set of example applicators 1008 with example posts 1010 attached to the holder. As discussed above, the applicator 1008 being separable from the post 1010 in similar manner.

The post may be constructed from materials including, but not limited to, wood, plastic, cardboard, wax, paper, metal-foil, or aluminum. While features of various illustrative embodiments are described, in other embodiments, the posts may be configured in any form suitable for the mounting of the applicators in the holder. For example, the post may be constructed in any other suitable shape and size and may have any suitable mass, surface finish, and/or surface treatment desired for a given application. In practice, the post may be configured in virtually any desired shape, such as substantially circular-shaped, substantially cylindrical-shaped, substantially oval-shaped, substantially rectangular-shaped, substantially pear-like shape, substantially mushroom-like shaped, or the like. Fabrication of the applicators, posts, and holder may be accomplished through a separate manufacturing process, a co-molding process, or any other suitable production process.

FIG. 10C illustrates an example applicator 1012 with weakened sections 1014 (e.g., perforated, scored, notched, etc.) and non-weakened frangible sections 1016 that are capable of being torn or broken (e.g., a normal paper match design). Once the user tears or breaks the applicator 1012 along the weakened section 1014, a small portion 1018 of the applicator 1011 remains in the holder. For instance, a frangible connection includes a perforated line, a score line, a notch, a weakened section of the elongated applicator, or a reduced width of the elongated applicator.

FIG. 11 illustrates a front perspective view of an example container 1100 with example applicators according to one embodiment. The container 1100 illustrates the compartment 1102 without any applicators. In this embodiment, the applicators 1104 are disposed on an insert 1106, which is removable from the compartment 1102. Thus, in this embodiment, when all of the applicators 1104 are used, the insert 1106 may be removed and replaced with another insert with applicators of the same or different product. In some embodiments, the compartment 1102 may be sized to receive multiple inserts 1106 of the same or different products. In one specific example, the compartment 1102 may hold a first insert having applicators with a first cosmetic product (e.g., a first fragrance, a first pigment of makeup, etc.) and second insert having applicators with a second cosmetic product (e.g., a second fragrance, a second pigment of makeup, etc.). The compartment may include a slot or receptacle in the base to receive and retain a bottom portion of the insert(s) 1106. In some embodiments, the inserts may be glued, stapled, fastened by a hook and loop fastener, fastened by a snap fastener, fastened by an elastic band, or otherwise retained in the container 1100. In some embodiments, the inserts 1106 and/or the individual applicators 1104 may be wrapped and/or sealed to maintain freshness of the products.

In all other respects, the cover, base, and applicators of container 1100 may be the same as the corresponding components of any of the other containers 1100 described herein.

Example Closures and Fasteners for Example Containers

FIGS. 12-14 illustrate perspective views of example closures and fasteners for example containers.

FIG. 12 illustrates perspective views of an example closure for the example container 1200. The container is in an open position 1202 with the cover 108 in a raised position. The cover 108 folds over the applicators to be tucked into the base 102 in the closed position 1204. In another embodiment, the closure includes a slot in the front portion of the base sized to receive at least a portion of the cover. This prevents accidental opening or exposure of the applicators and the products.

FIG. 13A illustrates perspective views of an example closure for the example container 1300. The container is in an open position with the cover 108 in a raised position. The container 1300 illustrates a circular-shaped closure 1302 located on the cover 108 and the other half of the closure, a second closure 1304 located on the front portion 106 of the base 102. When the first closure 1302 comes into contact with the second closure 1304, the cover 108 is secured to the base 102 in the closed position.

The closures described above may include but are not limited to, a loop fastener on the cover and a hook fastener on a front portion of the base, the loop fastener on the cover being configured to fasten to the hook fastener of the base (e.g., similar to Velcro®); a magnet on the cover and a ferromagnetic material on a front portion of the base, the magnet being configured to attract the ferromagnetic material on the front portion of the base; a re-adherable strip of adhesive on the cover and a smooth surface on a front portion of the base, the re-adherable strip of adhesive on the cover being configured to adhere to the smooth surface on the front portion of the base (e.g., similar to a Post-It Note®); and a snap fastener with a pair of interlocking discs or suction cups being vacuumed together.

Furthermore, the closures above may include but are not limited to, a hook fastener on the cover and a loop fastener on the front portion of the base, the hook fastener on the cover being configured to fasten to the loop fastener of the base; a hook on the cover and a string on the front portion of the base, the string on the front portion of the base being configured to loop around the hook on the cover; a first string on the cover and a second string on the front portion of the base, the second string on the front portion of the base being configured to tie with the first string on the cover; a knot on the cover and a loop on the front portion of the base, the loop on the front portion of the base being configured to wrap around the knot on the cover; a magnet on the front portion of the base and a ferromagnetic material on the cover, the magnet being configured to attract the ferromagnetic material on the cover; or a smooth surface on the cover and a re-adherable strip of adhesive on the front portion of the base, the re-adherable strip of adhesive on the front portion of the base being configured to adhere to the smooth surface on the cover.

FIG. 13B illustrates another closure that is a first long ribbon 1306 made of twine, nylon filaments, or plastic (i.e., polyethylene) located on a front top side or exterior of the cover 108 to be wrapped or tied with a second long ribbon 1308 made of similar material located on an exterior of the base 102.

FIG. 14A illustrates a perspective view of an example fastener 1400 for the example container shown in the closed position. The fastener 1400 may include but is not limited to, a knot type closure, a moulded clutch closure, or a metal ball closure. Another form of a knot type closure includes a loop on the cover that is oval shaped and a knot on a front portion of the base, the loop on the cover being configured to wrap around the knot of the base. For example, the fastener may include but not limited to be a type of silk knot, an ornamental braiding for fastening the cover that consists of a button and a loop on the base, or a crochet and a loop.

FIG. 14B illustrates a perspective view of an example fastener 1404 for the example container. The fastener 1404 may include but is not limited to, a metal ball closure or a moulded clutch closure. The fastener 1404 includes but is not limited to a hook or a circular ring attached on the cover and a latch on a front portion of the base, the hook or the circular ring on the cover being configured to engage with the latch on the base.

FIG. 14C illustrates a perspective of another example fastener 1406 for the example container. The fastener 1406 illustrates a strap on the base and a buckle attached on the cover, the strap on the base being configured to fasten to the buckle on the cover.

FIG. 14D illustrates a perspective view of yet another example fastener for the example container. The fastener 1406 includes but is not limited to another hook or a circular ring attached on the cover and a latch on a front portion of the base, the hook or the circular ring on the cover being configured to engage with the latch on the base. Other fasteners that may be similar include but are not limited to, a small loop, such as an eyelet or an eye clasp and the second fastener includes but is not limited to a small blunt hook. The cover is secured to the base when the hook is configured to slot into the loop.

While features of various illustrative embodiments are described, in other embodiments, the closures or fasteners may be configured in any form suitable for securing the cover to the base. For example, the above items listed may be constructed in any other suitable shape, size, and materials and may have any suitable mass, surface finish, and/or surface treatment desired for securing the cover to the base. The closures may be configured in any placement suitable for securing the cover to the base. That is, any of the closures may be located on the interior or exterior of the cover and/or the exterior of the base or vice versa to secure the cover to the base. In practice, the closures may be configured in virtually any desired shape, such as substantially circular-shaped, substantially oval-shaped, substantially rectangular-shaped, substantially square-shaped, or the like.

Conclusion

Although the invention has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as illustrative forms of implementing the invention.

Claims

1. A matchbook cosmetics container comprising:

a base having a back surface and two side walls defining a compartment, the compartment housing a plurality of matchstick applicators;

each of the plurality of matchstick applicators including a top portion and a bottom portion, the top portion retaining a cosmetic product and the bottom portion being severably attached to a holder;

a cover pivotably coupled to the base, the cover being selectively pivotable relative to the base between: i) an open position in which the plurality of matchstick applicators is accessible, and from which a matchstick applicator is severably removable from the holder, and ii) a closed position in which the cover wraps around and contacts the side walls to protect the plurality of applicators in the compartment; and

a closure attached to the cover and to a front portion of the base to secure the cover to the base in the closed position.

2. The matchbook cosmetics container of claim 1, wherein the closure comprises at least one of:

a slot in the front portion of the base sized to receive at least a portion of the cover;

a loop fastener on the cover and a hook fastener on the front portion of the base, the loop fastener on the cover being configured to fasten to the hook fastener of the base;

a string on the cover and a hook on the front portion of the base, the string on the cover being configured to loop around the hook on the base;

a first string on the cover and a second string on the front portion of the base, the first string of the cover being configured to tie with the second string of the base;

a loop on the cover and a knot on the front portion of the base, the loop on the cover being configured to wrap around the knot of the base;

a magnet on the cover and a ferromagnetic material on the front portion of the base, the magnet being configured to attract the ferromagnetic material on the front portion of the base; or

a re-adherable strip of adhesive on the cover and a smooth surface on the front portion of the base, the re-adherable strip of adhesive on the cover being configured to adhere to the smooth surface on the front portion of the base.

3. The matchbook cosmetics container of claim 1, wherein the closure comprises at least one of:

a hook fastener on the cover and a loop fastener on the front portion of the base, the hook fastener on the cover being configured to fasten to the loop fastener of the base;

a hook on the cover and a string on the front portion of the base, the string on the front portion of the base being configured to loop around the hook on the cover;

a first string on the cover and a second string on the front portion of the base, the second string on the front portion of the base being configured to tie with the first string on the cover;

a knot on the cover and a loop on the front portion of the base, the loop on the front portion of the base being configured to wrap around the knot on the cover;

a magnet on the front portion of the base and a ferromagnetic material on the cover, the magnet being configured to attract the ferromagnetic material on the cover; or

a smooth surface on the cover and a re-adherable strip of adhesive on the front portion of the base, the re-adherable strip of adhesive on the front portion of the base being configured to adhere to the smooth surface on the cover.

4. The matchbook cosmetics container of claim 1, wherein the top portion of each applicator comprises at least one of cotton, paper, sponge, powder puff, brush, flocking, or felt to retain the cosmetic product.

5. The matchbook cosmetics container of claim 4, wherein the top portion of each applicator further comprises a sealer, which seals the cosmetic product on the top portion of the respective applicator prior to use.

6. The matchbook cosmetics container of claim 5, wherein the sealer is configured to rub off upon use of the respective applicator.

7. The matchbook cosmetics container of claim 1, wherein the bottom portion of each applicator comprises at least one of plastic, cardboard, wood, metal, glass, ceramic, or Zamac.

8. The matchbook cosmetics container of claim 1, wherein the cosmetic product comprises at least one of lipstick, lip liner, fragrance, eye shadow, eye liner, mascara, brow pencil, brow gel, concealer, or blush.

9. The matchbook cosmetics container of claim 1, wherein the base comprises at least one of a composite material, metal, leather, ceramic, wood, plastic, cardboard, or paper.

10. The matchbook cosmetics container of claim 1, wherein the cover comprises at least one of a composite material, metal, leather, ceramic, wood, plastic, cardboard, or paper.

11. The matchbook cosmetics container of claim 1, wherein the plurality of applicators comprises:

a first set of applicators that retains a first cosmetic product, and

a second set of applicators that retains a second cosmetic product, which is different than the first cosmetic product.

12. The matchbook cosmetics container of claim 11, wherein the first cosmetic product comprises a first fragrance and the second cosmetic product comprises a second fragrance.

13. The matchbook cosmetics container of claim 11, wherein the first cosmetic product comprises a first pigment of cosmetic product and the second cosmetic product comprises a second pigment of cosmetic product.

14. The matchbook cosmetics container of claim 1, further comprising at least one of:

a plurality of posts in the holder, each matchstick applicator removably coupled to one of the plurality of posts; or

each matchstick applicator in the holder including a frangible connection to enable the matchstick applicator to be severably removable upon a tear motion along the frangible connection.

15. A cosmetics fragrance container comprising:

a base holding a plurality of elongated applicators, the plurality of elongated applicators being removably coupled to the base and retaining a cosmetic fragrance; and

a cover pivotably coupled to the base to protect the elongated applicators while in a closed position and to allow access to the elongated applicators when in an open position.

16. The cosmetics fragrance container of claim 15, further comprising a wrap covering the elongated applicators to substantially seal the cosmetic fragrance in the container when the cover is in the closed position.

17. The cosmetics fragrance container of claim 16, wherein the wrap comprises at least one of plastic, wax paper, or metal-foil.

18. The cosmetics fragrance container of claim 15, wherein each elongated applicator of the plurality of elongated applicators comprises a top portion for retaining the cosmetic fragrance, the top portion comprising at least one of cotton, paper, cardboard, plastic, wood, or sponge.

19. The cosmetics fragrance container of claim 15, wherein each elongated applicator of the plurality of elongated applicators comprises:

a top portion of approximately 8 millimeters to approximately 14 millimeters in height that retains the cosmetic fragrance; and

a bottom portion of approximately 17 millimeters to approximately 36 millimeters in height for holding the elongated applicator.

20. The cosmetics fragrance container of claim 15, wherein the plurality of elongated applicators comprises:

a first row of elongated applicators that is approximately 25 millimeters to approximately 50 millimeters in height to retain the cosmetic fragrance, and p1 a second row of elongated applicators that is approximately 40 millimeters to approximately 50 millimeters in height to retain another cosmetic fragrance, which is different than the cosmetic fragrance.

21. The cosmetics fragrance container of claim 15, wherein the container comprises a width of approximately 40 millimeter to approximately 80 millimeters, a height of approximately 40 millimeters to approximately 60 millimeters, and a depth of the container of approximately 8 millimeters to approximately 40 millimeters.

22. The cosmetics fragrance container of claim 15, further comprising a holder coupled to the base, the holder retaining the elongated applicators to the base prior to use.

23. The cosmetics fragrance container of claim 15, further comprising a frangible connection coupling each elongated applicator to the base, such that each elongated applicator is severable from the base for use.

24. The cosmetics fragrance container of claim 24, wherein each frangible connection comprises a perforated line, a score line, a notch, a weakened section of the respective elongated applicator, or a reduced width of the respective elongated applicator.

25. A cosmetics container comprising:

a base having a back surface and two side walls defining a compartment;

a replaceable insert disposed in the compartment;

a plurality of cosmetic applicators removably coupled to the replaceable insert, each cosmetic applicator of the plurality of cosmetic applicators retaining a cosmetic product; and

a cover pivotably coupled to the base, the cover wrapping around and contacting the side walls to protect the plurality of cosmetic applicators in the compartment.

26. The cosmetics container of claim 25, further comprising another replaceable insert disposed in the compartment, the another replaceable insert having a plurality of cosmetic applicators removably coupled to the another replaceable insert.

27. The cosmetics container of claim 25, wherein a top portion of each cosmetic applicator comprises at least one of cotton, paper, sponge, powder puff, brush, flocking, or felt to retain the cosmetic product.

28. The cosmetics container of claim 25, wherein the cosmetic product of each cosmetic applicator is coated with a sealer, which seals the cosmetic product on the respective cosmetic applicator prior to use, and which is configured to rub off upon use of the respective cosmetic applicator.

29. The cosmetics container of claim 25, further comprising a holder coupled to the insert, the holder retaining the elongated applicators to the insert prior to use.

30. The cosmetics container of claim 25, further comprising a frangible connection coupling each cosmetic applicator to the insert, such that each cosmetic applicator is severable from the insert for use.