APPLICATOR WITH APPLICATION FROM THE FRONT

Abstract

The invention relates to a mascara applicator with a finger carrier which is permanently fixed relative to a handle and comprises a main finger covering consisting of at least one row of fingers, which are disposed in an aligned manner along an imaginary main covering axis or one behind the other with an offset along the main covering axis and are molded onto the finger carrier, and with a handle which itself comprises a longitudinal axis, wherein the at least one main covering axis and the longitudinal axis of the handle extend at least substantially orthogonally relative to one another.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a mascara applicator.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventional mascara applicators consist of a handle section or handling means followed by a longer stem which carries on its end the actual applicator body. Such an applicator body is usually configured in the form of a brush covered with fingers or bristles. In this case, the stem of the known applicators comprises a pronounced longitudinal axis and the bristle carrier as a rule has a cylindrical or at least rod-like shape.

If the bristle carrier consists of two twisted metal wires, the bristles are arranged more or less haphazardly and do not form any sufficiently clear lines that could be meaningfully defined as main covering axes or the like.

If the bristle carrier and the bristles consist of injection-molded plastic, the bristles are more or less arranged in rows of bristles disposed one behind the other. The imaginary, substantially straight line which extends in the direction of the largest extent of the bristle area through any such bristle row can be referred to as a main covering axis—as is illustrated by FIG. 20, which shows the typical prior art. As can be seen, the bristles 5a are in this case disposed one behind the other aligned in the longitudinal direction. The imaginary line that goes through the center of the bristles in the area of transition between the respective bristle and the bristle carrier and extends in the longitudinal direction (L>>R) in this case forms a main covering axis 4a. The corresponding line in the case of the bristles 5b forms the main covering axis 4b. Another such line in the case of the bristles 5c forms the main covering axis 4c. The above-mentioned bristles in this case form the main finger covering, i.e. the main finger covering by means of which mascara is mainly applied.

Since the bristles, in the prior art shown in drawings by this application, are disposed one behind the other also in the circumferential direction along a circular line, circumferential covering axes or secondary covering axes, which, however, are of no particular interest here, are also to be defined in the case of such a brush.

Other bristles may also be available, primarily in the tip area which in this case is only indicated, for example in order to touch up the make-up result or to achieve a certain combing effect. However, the number of these other bristles is smaller than the number of those bristles which all together form the main finger covering, so that these bristles only form a secondary finger covering.

As can be seen, the main covering axes of the individual bristles forming the main finger covering, in the prior art illustrated by FIG. 26, extend at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 3 of the stem 2 and the handling means which adjoins the stem and is not shown here.

Another illustrative example from the prior art is illustrated by FIG. 27. In the case of this injection-molded brush, the bristles 5a, which are only indicated and shown in a top view from above, are disposed not precisely in a line but are disposed relative to one another with a certain offset V at regular intervals. In this case, the main covering axis is the calculated central axis around which the individual bristles are disposed at a periodically changing distance, see, purely by way of example, the main axis of the covering 4a.

During application, such known applicators as those described above are handled in such a way that the handle section is brought up laterally next to the eye, in the approximate area of the temple. The actual applicator section is brought up to the eyelashes by means of the long stem and drawn along the eyelashes in order thus to charge the eyelashes with the liquid or pasty mascara mass that adheres to the fingers or bristles. The use of such applicators requires a certain dexterity, and primarily a steady hand because even a slight trembling of the hand is strongly amplified by the long stem.

In view of this, it is the object of the invention to propose a mascara applicator which enables an improved handling during application.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This object is achieved by a mascara applicator with a finger carrier which is permanently fixed relative to the handling means and comprises a main finger covering consisting of at least one row of fingers, which are aligned along an imaginary main covering axis or one behind the other with an offset along the main covering axis and are molded on to the finger carrier, and with a handling means which itself comprises a longitudinal axis.

According to the invention, the main covering axes of the preferably several finger rows forming the main finger covering and the longitudinal axis of the handling means extend orthogonally relative to one another. This also applies, mutatis mutandis, if the main finger covering were to consist only of a single finger row. If the respective main covering axis and the longitudinal axis do not have a common point of intersection, then the condition according to the invention is deemed also to be fulfilled if the projection of the main covering axis on the longitudinal axis of the handling means and the longitudinal axis of the handling means extend substantially orthogonally relative to one another. In cases where the handling means does not have a clear longitudinal axis, it is an option of the invention instead to design and align the covering in such a way that the main covering axes extend substantially orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the finger carrier. In this case, the longitudinal axis of the finger carrier is the straight line that connects the proximal section with which the finger carrier is coupled to a stem or a handling means with the distal end face of the finger carrier over the shortest distance.

Even if “orthogonal” preferably denotes an angle of 90 degrees plus the usual manufacturing tolerances, a substantially orthogonal arrangement relative to one another is given also if, for the smaller of the two angles that the two intersecting axes include (main covering axis or projection of the covering axis on the one hand, and longitudinal axis of the handling means on the other hand), it holds that α≧60°, preferably α≧75° and ideally α≧85°. If the main covering axis is curved, this condition is to apply substantially over the entire length of the main covering axis. However, deviations at the edges of the main covering axis which result, for example, from a rounding of the bristle covering provided there, are deemed to be harmless. In view of this, deviations on the edges of less than 30% and preferably of less than 20% of the length of the respective main covering axis are generally non-critical.

A main finger covering within the sense of the invention is understood to be that part of the finger covering which, as intended, serves for carrying out at least the predominant part of mascara application, i.e. the part with which the user using the mascara applicator as intended first takes up the mascara mass from the storage container and applies it on to the eyelashes. As a rule, the main finger covering includes more than 40% of the total number of fingers available on the applicator. Preferably, the main finger covering even includes at least 60% of the total number of fingers available on the applicator. Ideally, the main finger covering even includes at least 75% of the total number of fingers available on the applicator. The remaining other fingers may form a secondary finger covering, for example in the form of a bristle group disposed on an edge of the main finger covering, which does not primarily serve for the first application of mascara, but for example for locally retracing or retouching the mascara application or for combing.

Fingers molded on to the finger carrier are, for example, fingers molded on to the finger carrier integrally, and preferably even molded on being made of the same substance. Generally speaking, such fingers may be considered as molded-on fingers which consist of the same material as the finger carrier and which were injection-molded together with the latter in one step, or which were injection-molded on to the latter from the same or a different material in a second step.

A finger carrier is permanently fixed relative to the handling means if the user does not have any possibility to adjust the finger carrier during the application relative to the handling means by rotation about a hinge or a joint. A certain positional change of the finger carrier relative to the handling means caused merely by elastic deformation bears no relevance with regard to the feature “permanent fixation”.

Preferably, the applicator consists of a single finger carrier. Ideally, this finger carrier is configured integrally. A very efficient production is thus possible. The uniform finger carrier can be connected to the stem of the handling means or to the handling means directly after injection molding without requiring any major effort. Basically, it is also possible to configure the finger carrier in several parts. In that case, such a finger carrier consists of individual sections which are fixed relative to one another, for example by being latched into one another, or by being connected to each other by welding. From the standpoint of the user, the several parts of the finger carrier can thus be fixed relative to one another permanently and so as to be non-adjustable for him.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the main covering axis of at least one of those finger rows forming the main finger covering is configured with a curvature. Preferably, at least a portion of this covering axis is configured in such a way that the covering axis is curved over the predominant part of its length and is preferably curved continuously. In this case, the radius of curvature of the covering axis is preferably ≧10 mm, better still ≧30 mm and ideally even ≧50 mm. Ideally, the curvature is a concave curvature directed towards the handling means which preferably substantially corresponds to the curvature of the curve of the eyelashes of the human eye. As a rule, an applicator according to the invention will not only include a single finger row that has a main covering axis curved in this way, but several such finger rows.

In this way, it becomes possible to wet with mascara mass substantially the entire curve of the eyelashes of an eyelid, preferably of the upper lid, with a single application stroke. In contrast to a conventional applicator with a substantially circular cylindrical bristle covering, the hand guiding the applicator does not have to execute a pivoting movement about a vertical spatial axis in order for the entire eyelid to come into contact with the bristle covering. This facilitates application.

Another preferred exemplary embodiment provides that the handling means is substantially configured as a plate, i.e. as a non-rotation-symmetrical body, which distally transitions integrally or via a distal end face into a finger carrier section and which has a proximally free end face as well as substantially two large and two small free side surfaces, wherein the surface area of the large side surfaces is larger by at least the factor 4, and better by at least the factor 6, than the surface area of the small side surfaces.

Another preferred exemplary embodiment provides that the largest width of the handling means configured as a plate is no more than four times, preferably no more than three times the maximum length of the applicator.

Preferably, the handling means and the finger carrier body are directly interconnected, i.e. without the interposition of a stem. The connection takes place in such a way that it is not one of the side surfaces of the finger carrier that serves for connection to the handling means, but the proximal end face, i.e. the surface of the finger carrier facing furthest away from the finger carrier.

It is through this measure, in particular, that it becomes possible that the handling means and the main finger covering are arranged relative to one another in such a way that when the applicator is used as intended, the fingers of the user guiding the applicator are located in front of the eye, seen in the viewing direction, instead of laterally next to the eye, as is the case in conventional applicators.

In this case, the handling means of the mascara applicator ideally consists of a plate which is preferably configured in such a way that its two large surfaces lie between the thumb and the index finger when the applicator is brought towards the eye.

Such an embodiment as is provided by the four last-mentioned preferred embodiments offers a completely new feel of use, which is perceived as more pleasant—compared with the feeling of use given by conventional applicators—by a not inconsiderable number of users. For an applicator of such a design can be gripped with 2 or 3 fingers and can be brought up to the eye in a convenient manner from the front. The insecurity experienced by some users when a finger carrier section has to be brought up to the eye from the side using a long stem is eliminated. In particular, it is easier to keep the applicator as steady as possible.

Another preferred embodiment provides that the two small side surfaces include an angle α≦90°, preferably ≦85°, and preferably ≧65°, ideally ≧75°, with the straight connecting line between the edges that the finger-covered end face forms towards the small side surfaces of the finger carrier.

In this manner, a finger carrier that narrows towards the side facing away from the eye is obtained. On the whole, such a finger carrier is perceived as being not so massive and therefore as being more pleasant when approaching the eye, even though it makes a relatively large width available for the finger covering.

It is another preferred design option that at least 30% and preferably the predominant part of the main finger covering consists of fingers that protrude from the distal end face of the finger carrier. The distal end face of the finger carrier is the surface of the finger carrier which faces away from the handling means and directly faces the eye during the application as intended. Equipping the finger carrier with bristles in this manner is precisely what permits wetting the curve of the eyelashes with mascara mass by a pivoting movement of the applicator about a horizontally extending axis from the bottom upwards. Such an application movement is perceived as being very pleasant.

Within the context of a clearly preferred embodiment of the invention, the main finger covering is formed from bristles, i.e. of bodies that are flexible to such an extent that their tip can be deflected by at least 15%, better by at least 25% of their length from the base to the tip. In this case, the bristles are preferably injection-molded bristles, which are preferably injection-molded in a single working step together with the bristle carrier, or preferably even in a single working step together with the bristle carrier and the handling means, and which ideally taper from their bases to their tips, preferably steadily.

Within the context of another preferred embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the jacket surface of the main finger covering grasps around the distal end face of the finger carrier at least over an angle β of 120° and particularly preferably an angle of at least 150°. A finger covering is thus provided whose shell contour is substantially similar to a roller, or a circumferential section of a roller. Application is very pleasant with such a finger covering because the roller can be brought before the eye in such a way that it extends substantially parallel to the curve of the eyelashes and then can be rolled over a certain distance on the eyelashes of the curve of the eyelashes to be treated.

Preferably, a special, as a rule smooth, contact surface, with which the wiper comes into engagement at rest without putting a load on the bristles once the mascara applicator forms a part of a completely sealed mascara unit, is formed on the plate forming the finger carrier.

Ideally, this contact surface is constricted, or has an offset, in relation to the section of the plate forming the finger carrier which is covered with the fingers. This results in a certain positive engagement between said contact surface and the wiper lips.

Within the context of another preferred embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the plate forming the finger carrier forms a sealing surface which as a rule protrudes, in the manner of a hilt, perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the applicator and which, when the mascara applicator is part of a sealed mascara unit, sealingly comes into engagement with a complementary surface on the wiper or on the mascara container. This sealing surface is preferably configured as a sealing surface which extends all around and is closed in itself in the circumferential direction, and which is ideally provided in such a way that it can act as a tapering or conical seal. In this case, this sealing surface is preferably designed in such a way that, when the mascara applicator is part of a sealed mascara unit, it separates the mascara-wetted part of the applicator from the remaining part of the applicator. It is thus prevented that the mascara mass advances in more than only inconsiderable amounts into areas that actually should not be wetted by the mascara mass in order to ensure clean handling.

Preferably, the finger carrier and the handling means are two independent components separate from each other. In order to be able to interconnect them in an uncomplicated way, the finger carrier comprises in the area of its proximal end face (i.e. facing away from the eye) a connecting section for connection to the handling means. In this case, the connecting section comprises a latching means, preferably a latching projection or a latching recess, for positive engagement of the finger carrier with a complementary latching means of the handling means.

A particularly beneficial embodiment of the invention provides that the mascara applicator comprises at least one latching means with which the section forming the finger carrier and/or the handling means can be fixed by positive fit directly on the container accommodating the mascara applicator in its ready position.

Further optional embodiments, advantages and effects become apparent from the following description of the invention with reference to four exemplary embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a first exemplary embodiment of the invention seen from the side.

FIG. 1B shows a second exemplary embodiment of the invention depicting a modification of the 1st exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2 shows a section through the first exemplary embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 1 along the line of cut A-A.

FIGS. 3 to 6 show a detailed view of the bristle covering as is used by the two exemplary embodiments according to the FIGS. 1 and 1B.

FIG. 7 illustrates the flexibility of a bristle belonging to a bristle covering as is used by the first exemplary embodiment and the close modification of the first exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 8 and 9 show a second exemplary embodiment in a side view.

FIG. 10 shows a second exemplary embodiment in a top view.

FIG. 11 shows the second exemplary embodiment head-on from the front.

FIGS. 12 to 19 show alternative designs for fingers as they can be used by the third exemplary embodiment of the invention shown in the FIGS. 8 to 11.

FIGS. 20 to 22 show an option of providing an additional special mass reservoir that can be applied by all the exemplary embodiments.

FIGS. 23 to 25 show a fourth embodiment in various views.

FIG. 26 shows the prior art known so far.

FIG. 27 also shows the prior art known so far.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 shows a first exemplary embodiment of the applicator according to the invention. Here, the applicator has a two-part structure and consists of a handling means 2, namely a handle, and a finger carrier 10 rigidly attached thereto. As can be seen well in FIG. 2, the finger carrier 10 comprises a connecting section 20 with which it is latched into a corresponding recess of the handling means so that the proximal end face 14 of the finger carrier and the distal end face 8 of the handling means rest directly against one another (see FIG. 2).

FIG. 2 also shows that the finger carrier 10 is substantially configured as a plate, i.e. as a non-rotation-symmetrical body. The finger carrier 10 as such is configured integrally, as a component injection-molded together with the bristles in a single working step. The finger carrier has a longitudinal axis 24 of its own, which is shown as a continuous line in FIGS. 1 and 2, in contrast to the dash-dotted line representing the longitudinal axis 3 of the handling means.

Due to its plate-like design, the finger carrier 10 has two large side surfaces 12 and two small side surfaces 11 (FIG. 11) as well as a proximal end face 11 (FIG. 2) via which it transitions into the handling means, and a distal end face covered with bristles. Comparing the FIGS. 1 and 2, it can be seen that the surface area of the two large side surfaces 12 is larger by at least about the factor 2.5 than the surface of the two small side surfaces 11, which constitutes the plate-like design within the sense of the invention. In the predominant number of cases, the size ratios will be even more in favor of the two large side surfaces 12 than is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

In the area of its proximal end, the finger carrier 11 is equipped with a kind of hilt as it is known from a knife, i.e. with a structure protruding at least substantially radially with respect to the longitudinal axis of the applicator. This radially protruding structure is more pronounced along the large side surfaces 12 than along the small side surfaces 11, but is preferably also provided here, at least rudimentarily. This radially protruding structure has the function of a stop which limits the further insertion of the applicator into the storage container, and preferably at the same time that of a sealing surface 17, preferably in the shape of a conical seal. Thus, the applicator rests sealingly, through this sealing surface, on the storage container or a corresponding sealing surface of a wiper at the moment it forms a sealed cosmetics unit together with a corresponding storage container.

On its rear (i.e. proximally), the hilt is equipped with a substantially planar stop face surrounding the latching appendage or a latching opening of the plate carrier all around. With this stop face, the finger carrier 10 contacts a corresponding, preferably substantially equally large stop face of the handling means 2. In particular, these two surfaces are elastically biased against one another due to the latching engagement between the finger plate and the handling means. These measures constitute a particularly bending-resistant connection between the handling means 2 and the finger carrier 10. According to FIG. 1, the distal end face of the finger carrier has a curvature which is preferably configured concavely, so that the lateral areas of the end face protrude further in the distal direction than the area in the center of the curvature. The radius of curvature of the end face is preferably ≧20 mm and ideally ≧30 mm.

As can further be seen in FIG. 1, the planes in which the predominant part of the finger carrier side surfaces 11 lie include, with the straight connecting line VB placed over the two corner areas of the curved distal end face 13, an angle α, which is <90°, and is approximately 86° in the present exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 1 illustrates that the handling means and/or the finger carrier optimally comprise a latching means 18 with which the applicator can be latched to the storage container receiving it in a rest position of the applicator, independently of a possible latching engagement or retaining function of the wiper lip.

The synopsis of the FIGS. 1 and 2 show how the finger covering is constructed.

In this exemplary embodiment, the finger covering consists of a number of fine bristles which preferably have an average diameter of ≧0.5 mm and preferably even ≧0.3 mm. The bristles taper from their base areas towards their tips. Tapering is preferably steady. Ideally, the cross section of the bristles is circular, oval or elliptical. Due to the selection of their material, the bristles are very elastic. Their tips can preferably be deflected perpendicularly to the longitudinal bristle axis by an amount AL, which is at least 25% and better at least 35% of the length of the respective bristle from its base to its tip, without more than only an inconsiderable permanent deformation occurring when load is relieved. FIG. 7 depicts such a deflection.

In FIG. 1, the main covering axes extend from the left to the right, because the bristle area has its largest extent in this direction—while in this direction, more than 14 and preferably even more than 16 bristles stand behind one another along a line, less than 8 and preferably even less than 6 bristles, respectively, stand behind one another along a line in the circumferential direction. Accordingly, the main covering axis in FIG. 2 extends substantially perpendicular to the plane of the drawing.

Generally, it must be noted that a main covering axis within the sense of the invention preferably only is such a line along which at least 10 and preferably at least 14, ideally at least 16 bristles are disposed one behind the other in alignment or, in accordance with a regular pattern, alternating by a certain lateral offset V, first in the one and then in the other direction.

Embodiments preferred for certain cases of application have a bristle covering V (see FIG. 27), for which the following applies: 0.25 bristle base diameter <V<1.25 bristle base diameter. Ideally, the bristles disposed along a joint main axis of the covering are exactly aligned one behind the other, apart from manufacturing tolerances.

The bristles 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d and 5e, respectively, which are shown by way of example, are respectively disposed in rows one behind the other along a line, see FIGS. 1 to 5. The line intersecting their base points, at which these bristles transition into the bristle carrier respectively, constitutes the main covering axis 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d and 4e, respectively.

It can be seen clearly in FIGS. 1 to 5 that the situation is the same with respect to the other bristles that are not given their own reference numerals.

In particular in FIG. 1, it can be seen clearly that each of the main covering axes is curved over its entire length, and in this exemplary embodiment approximately continuously. Even if that is not discernible due to the highly enlarged illustration, the curvature is selected approximately so that the distal end of the applicator formed by the bristle tips (see arrow D in the Figures) has a concave configuration and approximately corresponds to the curvature of an eyelid. In this exemplary embodiment, the radius of curvature is ≧20 mm.

As can be seen well in FIG. 2, a secondary covering axis or a circumferential covering axis (not expressly marked by a reference numeral) can be defined in the bristle covering, for the bristles form a section of an approximately roller-shaped body, seen in the circumferential direction. However, the circumferential covering axis is strongly curved and in the present case forms a radius of curvature ≦5 mm.

As can be seen, the largely roller-shaped jacket surface of the main finger covering reaches around the distal end face of the finger carrier over an angle β of more than 150°, in the specific case about 180°. The bristle central lines at least of those bristles whose main covering axis lies in the area of the imaginary center of the bristle area extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 3 of the handling means, whereas the bristle central lines at least of one row of those bristles whose main covering axis lies in the area of an edge of the bristle area extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 3 of the handling means.

Instead of a substantially roller-shaped contour, the jacket surface of the main finger covering could also have, for example, a substantially barrel-shaped contour or a contour that substantially corresponds to the contour of a so-called single-shell hyperboloid, i.e. a centrally waisted rotation body whose diameter increases again towards its two outer ends.

The main covering axes 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d and 4e, respectively, and preferably all other main covering axes extend substantially orthogonally to the longitudinal axis 3 of the handling means 2. It should be noted, not only with respect to this first exemplary embodiment, that the longitudinal axis of the handling means as a rule is the imaginary axis extending in the direction of the greatest length of the handling means of the applicator.

Thus, the applicator can be brought up to the eye in a convenient manner from the front, without it requiring, between the handling means and the bristle carrier, a long stem which gives rise to problems due to its length and in certain cases also due to its elastic deformation.

As can be seen in FIG. 1, the bristles, in the direction perpendicular to the main covering axes, are disposed with an offset relative to one another. In the exemplary embodiment specifically shown by FIG. 1, this offset is selected such that the bristles are positioned along a second main covering axis, in each case approximately in the area of the center of the intermediate bristle space between two bristles that belong to a directly adjacent bristle row extending along a first main covering axis.

According to the invention, the plate-like finger carrier is equipped with a bare plate section, i.e. a plate section that carries no fingers or bristles and has itself two large bare side surfaces and two smaller bare side surfaces that are smaller by at least the factor 2.5, better by at least the factor 5, see FIGS. 1 and 2. This bare plate section serves as a contact surface 15 for the wiper whenever the mascara applicator is a part of a completely sealed mascara unit. Since this plate section does not bear any bristles, the wiper is able to nestle against it in its rest position without the wiper or bristles becoming overstrained and deformed thereby in an undesired manner in the long run.

Preferably, in relation to the plate section of the plate forming the finger carrier which is covered with the fingers, the contact surface 15 is constricted, or forms an offset at least in the area of its large side surfaces, into which the respective wiper lip can nestle when assuming its rest position. On the one hand, a further load relief of the wiper lips becomes possible thereby. On the other hand, this can result a positive engagement between the wiper lip concerned and the contact surface 15. The latter may contribute to fixing the applicator relative to the storage container for the mascara mass.

FIGS. 3 to 5 show a more detailed illustration of the bristle area of the applicator according to FIG. 1. As in the other Figures, the arrows D and P illustrate in these FIGS. 3 to 5 which directions are referred to by the adjectives distal (=D) and proximal (=P).

How the respective main axes of the covering 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d and 4e, respectively, extend or how they are to be determined is once again shown by way of example in these Figures with the bristles 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d and 5e, respectively. The preferably slightly curved contour of the main covering axes can be seen, rather clearly, in these Figures. The fact is easily recognizable that there is (viewed in the direction of the main covering axes) a row of bristles whose bristles are injection-molded to the distal end face 13 of the plate-like finger carrier in such a manner that they protrude substantially perpendicularly to the surface of this middle area of the distal end face 13, and that there is at least one further bristle row that is also injection-molded to the distal end face 13 of the plate-like finger carrier in such a way, however, that the bristles of this at least one further bristle row include with the surface of the middle area of the distal end face an angle μ≧10°, wherein, however, μ≦30°. By means of such a bristle arrangement, the applicator brought up to the eye head-on from the front achieves a good combing effect.

In this context, at least one bristle row is ideally provided additionally at the distal end face 13 where the angle μ=45°+/−7.5°, and better still 45°+/−3°. Preferably, the bristle area is configured symmetrically in the direction perpendicular to the main covering axes in such a way that bristle areas whose bristles respectively protrude substantially at the same angle μ from the distal end face respectively adjoin, by and by, to both sides of the bristle rows whose bristles substantially protrude perpendicularly from the distal end face.

It must be noted that, in any case, the predominant part of the central lines of all bristles extending along one and the same main covering axis are substantially oriented in parallel, which can also be seen well in FIGS. 3 to 5.

FIG. 1b shows a second exemplary embodiment of the invention. This second exemplary embodiment of the invention completely corresponds to the first exemplary embodiment of the invention which was explained above. Therefore, all statements made above also apply without qualification to this second exemplary embodiment. The sole difference between this first exemplary embodiment and the second exemplary embodiment is the following:

The finger carrier 10 in this exemplary embodiment is provided with a recess 22. In this way, two optimally flexible webs are produced via which the proximal part of the finger carrier to which the handling means is bonded is connected to the distal part of the finger carrier carrying the bristles.

FIGS. 8-12 show a third exemplary embodiment of the invention which comprises a finger covering of substantially rigid finger-like elements instead of a covering of flexible bristles. Moreover, this exemplary embodiment comprises a handling means whose longitudinal axis 3 is bent relative to the longitudinal axis 24 of the finger carrier. In other respects, this third exemplary embodiment of the invention also corresponds completely to the first exemplary embodiment of the invention which was explained above.

Therefore, all of the statements made above in respect of the first exemplary embodiment apply without qualification to this third exemplary embodiment, with the exception of the statements that were made specifically with regard to the bristles. In particular, the finger carrier comprises the two large and small side surfaces 11 and 12 mentioned above, the bent arrangement of the two small side surfaces 11 relative to the straight line connecting the outer edges of the distal end face 8, the sealing surface 17 extending in the circumferential direction, which is preferably designed like a hilt, the division into two parts of the applicator into a finger carrier 10 and a handling means 2 engaged therewith, as well as a latching means 18 by means of which the applicator can be latched to the storage container receiving it in a rest position of the applicator, independently of a possible engagement or retaining function of the wiper lip.

The finger-like elements of this exemplary embodiment are configured like small pyramids or teeth 5a to 5c. These small, substantially rigid pyramids or teeth are also disposed in rows one behind the other along a line, see FIG. 11. The line that centrally intersects their base point at which these pyramids or teeth transition into the bristle carrier respectively constitutes the main covering axis 4a, 4b, or 4c. As can be seen in FIG. 9, the main covering axes and the longitudinal axis 3 of the handling means do not intersect, but are disposed relative to one another in such a manner that they include a substantially right angle if projected onto one another. In this regard, reference is made in particular to FIG. 9, which expressly shows the main covering axis 4b, in particular.

The main covering axis is preferably curved also in this case, within the limits described above in respect of the first exemplary embodiment. However, the main covering axis is not concavely curved in this case, but convexly curved.

In FIGS. 8 to 11, the main covering axes extend from the left to the right, because the bristle area has its largest extent in this direction—while in this direction, more than 14 and preferably even more than 16 bristles stand behind one another along a line, less than 8 and preferably even less than 6 bristles, respectively, stand behind one another along a line in the circumferential direction. Accordingly, the main covering axes in FIG. 11 extend substantially parallel to the plane of the drawing. Moreover, the way the main axes of the covering extend is also illustrated for this third exemplary embodiment by FIG. 12, with reference to the example of the main axis of the covering 4c for bristle 5c.

Generally, it must be noted also for this third exemplary embodiment that a main covering axis within the sense of the invention preferably only is such a line along which at least 10 and preferably at least 14, ideally at least 16 bristles are disposed one behind the other in alignment or, in accordance with a regular pattern, alternating by a certain lateral offset, first in the one and then in the other direction.

The pyramids are preferably configured as pyramids with 4 lateral surfaces.

The longitudinal axis 3 of the handling means is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis 24 of the finger carrier by an angle Ω. The following preferably applies for this angle: 5°≦Ω≦45° and ideally 7.5°≦Ω≦30°.

The applicator comprises an additional latching means 19 for connection to the storage container once the applicator assumes its rest position relative thereto.

FIG. 13 shows alternative options for embodiments for such fingers as are used by the above-described third exemplary embodiment.

For example, there is the option of using fingers 5w₁ with forked ends 66, wherein these ends 66 can be so narrow beyond (distally of) the fork that they are as elastic as was defined within the context of the first exemplary embodiment for the bristles described by it. However, they may also be more or less rigid. The intermediate space 67 between two ends branching off due to the forking from one and the same root can then be used as an additional mass reservoir. The further intermediate space 68, which is cut in deeply, also serves for improving the mass reservoir capacity.

Other fingers 5w₂ are configured like arrows and are thus capable of better retaining individual eyelashes in their intermediate arrow space 69. This improves curling, i.e. the possibility of providing the eyelashes with a stronger curvature.

Still other fingers 5w₃ are designed to be pin-like and comprise, at least in the area of the center of the finger, a constricted portion, whereas the distal end of the respective finger thickens again relative to the constricted portion.

All of these fingers are disposed along a main covering axis 4w, as was already described in respect of the other exemplary embodiments.

As FIG. 14 shows, the fingers can be disposed in a single row, i.e. for example on an applicator that is otherwise configured in accordance with FIGS. 8 to 11, they form a finger covering consisting only of a single row of fingers that are disposed one behind the other. The main covering axis is in this case depicted by the line 4.

FIG. 15 shows another alternative for the fingers which, with regard to function, largely corresponds to the above-described fingers 5w₁, so that the statements in respect thereof apply, mutatis mutandis, to the fingers according to FIG. 15.

The main covering axis is depicted by the line 4 also in this case.

The fingers shown by FIG. 15 respectively consist of a uniform root which protrudes on both sides of two deeply cut intermediate spaces 69. Each root finally transitions into at least three, preferably at least four fork-like ends 66 with intermediate spaces 67 respectively formed therebetween, each of which is smaller than a deeply cut intermediate space 69. The fork-like ends can be similarly elastic as was described above with regard to the bristles of the first exemplary embodiment, but may also be more or less rigid. The decisive factor also in this case is the improvement of the mass reservoir capacity due to the particular form of all the intermediate spaces.

The fingers shown by FIG. 15 can be disposed in a single row, i.e. for example on an applicator that is otherwise configured in accordance with FIGS. 8 to 11, they form a finger covering consisting only of a single row of fingers that are disposed one behind the other.

As FIGS. 16 and 17 illustrate, these fingers can, however, also be disposed in several rows, and in particular in three rows, for example in such a manner as is shown by the FIG. 11, which is unchanged in this respect. A main covering axis is depicted, by way of example, by the line 4 also in this case.

FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate another alternative for the fingers. Here, the fingers are configured as acute-angled wedges instead of pyramidally. They are preferably disposed next to one another in three rows, preferably also on the distal end face of an applicator as is otherwise shown in FIGS. 8 to 11. A main covering axis is depicted, by way of example, by the line 4 also in this case.

FIGS. 20 to 22 illustrate a particular type of mass reservoir as can basically be used optionally for all applicators described as being in accordance with the invention.

The actual bristle covering in FIG. 20 is formed by a row, preferably only a single row, of fingers (in this case, purely by way of example, in the form of triangular teeth) disposed along a main covering axis 4 oriented according to the invention. At least on a flank that is parallel to the main covering axis, a lamella covering consisting of lamellas 77 disposed substantially parallel to one another is disposed on a distal part of the large side surface 12 of the finger carrier 10. The lamellas have a different geometry from the actual fingers. Preferably, they are thicker by at least the factor 2, viewed in the direction of the main covering axes, than a single finger at its base area, i.e. in the area with which it transitions into the finger carrier. These lamellas enclose additional mass reservoir spaces 78 between them. Ideally, the intermediate spaces enclosed between adjacent fingers directly open into one of the mass reservoir spaces 78 so that an eyelash which comes to rest in the intermediate space between two adjacent fingers can also be charged with mascara mass that was first stored in the mass reservoir space 78 concerned.

FIGS. 23 to 25 show a fourth exemplary embodiment which is basically the most strongly related to the first exemplary embodiment described above. Therefore, the statements regarding the configuration of the bristle covering of the first exemplary embodiment and the illustrations of FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 to 7 also apply without qualification to this fourth exemplary embodiment. This is also shown by FIG. 23, in which a main covering axis associated with the bristles 5 (these are those bristles that lie exactly in the plane of drawing) is depicted, by way of example, by a line that bears the reference numeral 4. As can be seen, the main covering axis extends orthogonally to the longitudinal axis 3 of the handling means 2 also in this case.

However, there are differences with regard to the configuration of the finger or bristle carrier. In this case, this is not consistently configured in the shape of a plate, but either substantially rod-shaped and in this case substantially cylindrical, oval or approximately quadrangular, and then corresponds to the comparable section of the plate-shaped finger carrier of the first exemplary embodiment.

The finger carrier is not proximally coupled to the handling means, but unilaterally via one of its small side surfaces 11.

What is special in this case, however, is the fact that the substantial part of the handling means does not lie on the side of the small end face 11 through which the bristle carrier 10 is coupled to the handling means 2, but on the side of the bristle carrier 10 maximally averted from the bristle covering. To this end, a preferably substantially c-shaped, u-shaped or approximately semi-circular bracket section 90 is formed on the handling means which connects the part of the handling means adjacent to the small end face 11 of the finger carrier 10 to the part of the handling means lying on the side of the finger carrier 10 maximally averted from the bristle covering.

Thus, even though this is an applicator brought up to the eye head-on from the front (in the manner described for the first exemplary embodiment), an applicator is provided which—apart from its small side surfaces 11, which are used for connecting purposes—comprises a finger carrier 10 that is accessible from all sides, which is inserted in the usual manner into a storage container, and which, above all, can be wiped off in the usual manner when it is pulled out again (without using a modified or significantly modified wiper). FIG. 25 illustrates this. In this Figure, a storage container and a wiper of an at least largely conventional design are shown in dashed lines.

As a matter of form, the following must be remarked with regard to the system of reference numerals: Fingers or bristles are basically given the reference numeral 5, the associated main address of the covering is basically given the reference numeral 4. In order to be able to refer to different bristle rows, letters a, b, c etc. are affixed to the reference numeral used, so that the reference numeral 5a, for example, marks bristles of the bristle row a and the reference numeral 4a refers to the main covering axis of the bristle row a.

Claims

1. A mascara applicator comprising:

a finger carrier which is permanently fixed relative to a handle and comprises a main finger covering consisting of at least one row of fingers, which are disposed in an aligned manner along an imaginary main covering axis or one behind the other with an offset along the main covering axis and are molded on to the finger carrier; and

a handle which itself comprises a longitudinal axis;

wherein the at least one main covering axis and the longitudinal axis of the handle extend at least substantially orthogonally relative to one another.

2. The mascara applicator according to claim 1, wherein the applicator comprises only a single bristle carrier which is either formed integrally or consists of several parts, which from the standpoint of the user are permanently fixed relative to one another.

3. The mascara applicator according to claim 1, wherein the main covering axis is curved over a predominant part of its length, its radius of curvature being ≧10 mm; and the curvature being substantially constant.

4. The mascara applicator according to claim 3, wherein the curvature is a concave curvature directed towards the handle which substantially corresponds to a curvature of eyelashes of a human eye.

5. The mascara applicator according to claim 1, wherein the handle is substantially configured as a plate having a non-rotation-symmetrical body, which distally transitions integrally or via a distal end face into a finger carrier section and which has a proximally free end face as well as substantially two large and two small free side surfaces, wherein a surface area of the large side surfaces is larger than a surface area of the small side surfaces (6) by at least a factor of 4.

6. The mascara applicator according claim 5, wherein the largest width of the handle configured as a plate is no more than four times a maximum length Lmax of the applicator.

7. The mascara applicator according to claim 6, wherein the maximum length Lmax of the applicator is ≦75 mm.

8. The mascara applicator according to claim 1, wherein the handle and the main finger covering are arranged relative to one another in such a way that, when the applicator is used as intended, fingers of a user guiding the applicator are located in front of the user's eye, seen in the viewing direction, instead of laterally next to the eye.

9. The mascara applicator according to claim 1, wherein the finger carrier is substantially configured as a plate having a non-rotation-symmetrical body, which on its proximal side transitions integrally or via a proximal end face into the handle and which is distally equipped in such a way that the finger carrier comprises:

a finger-covered end face; and

two large and two small free side surfaces, wherein a surface area of the large side surfaces is larger than a surface area of the small side surfaces; by at least a factor of 4.

10. The mascara applicator according to claim 9, wherein the two small side surfaces include an angle α≦90°, with a straight connecting line (VB) between edges that the finger-covered end face forms towards the two small side surfaces.

11. The mascara applicator according to claim 9, wherein at least 30% of the main finger covering comprises fingers that protrude from the distal end face of the finger carrier, predominantly in a direction which is oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the handle.

12. The mascara applicator according to claim 11, wherein the main finger covering comprises fingers in the form of bristles, which are bodies that are flexible to such an extent that their tip can be deflected by at least 15%, of their length from a base to a tip.

13. The mascara applicator according to claim 12, wherein the bristles are injection-molded bristles, which are injection-molded in a single working step together with the bristle carrier, or in a single working step together with the bristle carrier and the handle, and which taper from their bases to their tips.

14. The mascara applicator according to claim 1, wherein a jacket surface of the main finger covering grasps around the main covering axis at least over an angle (β) of 90°, wherein the finger covering comprises several first fingers whose longitudinal axis is perpendicular to a first main surface, and several second fingers, whose longitudinal axis is perpendicular to a second main surface.

15. The mascara applicator according to claim 1, wherein the handle of the mascara applicator consists essentially of a plate which is configured in such a way that two large surfaces of the plate lie between a user's thumb and index finger when the applicator is brought towards the user's eye.

16. The mascara applicator according to claim 12, wherein the plate forming the finger carrier forms a contact surface with which a wiper, when the mascara applicator is a part of a sealed mascara unit, comes into engagement at rest without putting a load on the bristles; wherein this contact surface is constricted or recedes in relation to a plate section of the plate forming the finger carrier which is covered with the fingers, so that this configuration results in a positive engagement between the contact surface and lips of the wiper.

17. The mascara applicator according to claim 12, wherein the plate forming the finger carrier forms a continuously circumferentially extending sealing surface which protrudes in a manner of a hilt and which, when the mascara applicator is part of a sealed mascara unit, sealingly comes into engagement with a complementary surface on a wiper or on a mascara container, wherein this sealing surface is configured in such a way that, when the mascara applicator is part of a sealed mascara unit, the sealing surface separates a part of the applicator wetted with mascara from a remaining part of the applicator.

18. The mascara applicator according to claim 1, wherein the finger carrier and the handle are two independent components separate from each other and the finger carrier comprises in an area of its proximal end face a connecting section for connection to the handle, wherein the connecting section comprises a latching projection or a latching recess for positive engagement of the finger carrier with a complementary latching component of the handle.

19. The mascara applicator according to claim 1, wherein the mascara applicator comprises at least one latching component with which a section forming the finger carrier and/or the handle can be fixed by positive fit directly on a container accommodating the mascara applicator in its ready position.