LIP/SKIN APPLICATOR DEVICE WITH ROTATABLE FEATURE

Abstract

A lip or skin applicator device includes a first housing portion and a second housing portion rotatably connected to the first housing portion. The second housing portion rotates about the first housing portion such that, in the closed position, the product is enclosed within the first housing portion and the second housing portion, and in the open position, the product is exposed and the first housing portion is at least partially housed within the second housing portion. The lip or skin applicator device may include an opening with a plurality of elongated protrusions into which a portion of a product is inserted.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an applicator device for dispensing a product. More particularly, the present invention relates to a lip or skin applicator devices and associated methods of using the devices that are especially adapted to apply a product onto the epidermis of humans.

BACKGROUND

Skin care has long been recognized as an important factor in our overall health and well-being. This is particularly true for lips, whose exposed mucous membrane structure is different than other skin. Lips do not have the same protective outer layer, or stratum corneum, found in other skin; nor do lips have the same complement of oil and sweat glands. Sweat glands add moisture to skin, but the lips' only source of moisture is saliva inside the mouth. Thus, harsh winter wind, cold, sun and dryness—indoors and outdoors—make lips a vulnerable target for chapping.

Skin or lip care products are often applied as preventative care. For example, lip balm is often applied to prevent chapped lips. When applied prior to harsh winter wind, cold, sun and dryness, lip balm has proven effective in providing protection to a person's lips. Lip balm may also be used after a person's lips become chapped to soothe the person's lips and prevent further damage from occurring.

Skin or lip care products are typically packaged in containers that are opened and closed by removing a cap or other housing. These caps are often dropped. A dropped cap can become contaminated, which can in turn cause contamination of the product applied to the skin. The caps are also often lost, leaving the user with an exposed product that can become contaminated in any number of ways. In addition to contaminated, the exposed product could become damaged and could also damage or soil other objects with which it comes into contact, particularly in an enclosed environment (such as a handbag). Further, if the skin or lip care product is left uncovered key ingredients in the product can degrade from exposure to the air and lose their efficacy.

Skin or lip care products are typically mounted to a portion of the package in which they are housed. The products often become loose or break during application of the product. This in turn causes frustration on the part of the user.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect of the invention, an applicator device includes a first housing portion to which a product is attached and a second housing portion rotatably connected to the first housing portion to allow the second housing portion to rotate about the first housing portion between a closed position and an open position. The second housing portion rotates about the first housing portion such that, in the closed position, the product is enclosed within the first housing portion and the second housing portion, and in the open position, the product is exposed and the first housing portion is at least partially housed within the second housing portion.

In another aspect of the invention, an applicator device includes a first housing portion to which a product is attached and a second housing portion connected to the first housing portion. The first housing portion includes an opening into which a portion of the product is inserted. The opening includes a plurality of elongated protrusions which protrude into the product.

In another aspect of the invention, a method of using an applicator device includes obtaining an applicator device that includes a first housing portion; a product attached to the first housing portion, and a second housing portion connected to the first housing portion. The method includes rotating the second housing portion about the first housing portion from a closed position to an open position, and pressing the product of the applicator device onto one or both lips of a user to apply the product. When pressing the product onto one or both lips the user may press the product onto both lips simultaneously.

Numerous other features and advantages of the present invention will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading of the following detailed description of presently preferred, but nonetheless illustrative, embodiments of the present invention when taken in conjunction with the accompany drawings. In this respect, before explaining embodiments of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

Before undertaking the detailed description of the invention below, it may be advantageous to set forth definitions of certain words and phrases used throughout this patent document. Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” or the term “includes” or variations, thereof, or the term “having” or variations, thereof will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element or integer or group of elements or integers but not the exclusion of any other element or integer or group of elements or integers. Furthermore, a person skilled in the art of reading claimed inventions should understand that “a” and “an” each generally denotes “at least one,” but does not exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise. And that the term “or” denotes “at least one of the items,” but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention described herein is susceptible to variations and modifications other than those specifically described. It is to be understood that the invention includes all such variations and modification which fall within its spirit and scope.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Non-Limiting Embodiments of the Disclosure

The invention will be better understood and aspects other than those set forth above will become apparent when consideration is given to the following description thereof. Such description makes reference to the annexed drawings, wherein:

FIGS. 1A-1F are front and trimetric perspective views showing an embodiment of the applicator device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention in closed, partially open and fully open positions.

FIGS. 2A-2C are top, bottom and trimetric perspective views showing an embodiment of the lower (or first) housing portion of the applicator device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. 2D is a front perspective view showing an embodiment of the lower (or first) housing portion of the applicator device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. 2E is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A′ in FIG. 2D. FIG. 2F is a side perspective view showing an embodiment of the lower (or first) housing portion of the applicator device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. 2G is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B′ of FIG. 2F.

FIGS. 3A-3C are top, bottom and trimetric perspective views showing an embodiment of the upper (or second) housing portion of the applicator device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. 3D is a side perspective view showing an embodiment of the upper (or second) housing portion of the applicator device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. 3E is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A′ in FIG. 3D. FIG. 3F is a back perspective view showing an embodiment of the upper (or second) housing portion of the applicator device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. 3G is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B′ of FIG. 3F.

FIG. 4A is a front perspective view showing an embodiment of the applicator device in the closed position constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view taken along line E-E′ of FIG. 4A. FIG. 4C is a side perspective view showing an embodiment of the applicator device in the closed position constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. 4D is a cross-sectional view taken along line F-F′ of FIG. 4C.

FIG. 5A is a front perspective view showing an embodiment of the applicator device in the open position constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view taken along line G-G′ of FIG. 5A. FIG. 5C is a side perspective view showing an embodiment of the applicator device in the open position constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. 5D is a cross-sectional view taken along line H-H′ of FIG. 5C.

FIG. 6A is a trimetric perspective view for illustrating first and second pivot joints according to another embodiment of the applicator device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. 6B is a side perspective view showing the embodiment in the closed position. FIG. 6C is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B′ of FIG. 6C.

FIG. 7A is a front perspective view for illustrating a snap bead and seal ring configuration according to another embodiment of the applicator device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A′ of FIG. 7A. FIG. 7C is a side perspective view showing the embodiment of the applicator device. FIG. 7D is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B′ of FIG. 7C. FIG. 7E is a trimetric perspective view showing the embodiment of the applicator device.

The same reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the various figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to FIGS. 1A-1F, an embodiment of the applicator device 10 is shown and generally designated by the reference numeral 10. The applicator device 10 has a lower (or first) housing portion 20 and an upper (or second) housing portion 60. The housing portions are referred to as an upper portion and a lower portion for convenience only, and whether or not these portions are on the top or bottom will depend on how the user positions the device. A product 90, which may, for example, be a lip balm, is attached to the lower housing portion 20, and the upper and lower housing portions 60 and 20 are rotatably/pivotably connected.

The rotatable/pivotable connection of the upper and lower housing portions 60 and 20 allow the upper housing portion 60 to rotate about the lower housing portion 20 between an open position and a closed position, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 1A-1F. When the upper and lower housing portions 60 and 20 are in the closed portion (FIGS. 1A and 1B), the product 90 is enclosed within the applicator device 10 (i.e., within the top and bottom housing portions 60 and 20). When the upper and lower housing portions 60 and 20 are in the open position (FIGS. 1E and 1F), the product 90 is exposed allowing a user of the applicator device 10 to apply the product 90 to their skin. In the open position, the upper housing portion 60 is rotated about the lower housing portion 10 so that the upper housing portion covers or houses at least a portion of the lower housing portion. Accordingly, the applicator device is a convenient, easy to use device that remains as a single connected entity regardless of whether it is in the open or closed position.

The rotating motion of the upper housing portion 60 may be accomplished by first and second pivot joints 12 and 14. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A-1F, the first and second pivot joints 12 and 14 are formed on diametrically opposing portions of the upper and lower housing portions 60 and 20. The applicator device 10 may also include a clasp 16 for keeping the applicator device in the closed position until the user desires to apply the product 90, and a detent 42 for holding the device in the open position.

Typically, when a user desires to use a lip or skin applicator the user must completely remove the cap from the applicator before applying the product. This configuration is problematic, as the cap may be dropped, contaminated or even lost when removed. The pivotable or rotatable connection of the top and bottom housing portions 60 and 20 of the applicator device 10 prevents these problems. The applicator device 10 can be opened by rotating the top housing portion 60, and thus one does not need to be concerned with dropping, contaminating or losing a part of the applicator device 10 during application of a product 90. Further, since the upper and lower housing portions 60 and 20 can be maintained as a single connected entity regardless of whether the applicator device 10 is opened or closed, a user always has access to the means by which the device 10 is closed, making it easier to keep the product 90 closed when it is not being used, thereby preventing damage to the product and also preventing key ingredients of the product 90 from degrading and losing their efficacy.

Turning now to FIGS. 2A-2G, which show the lower (or first) portion 20 of an applicator device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 2A-2C are top, bottom and perspective views. FIG. 2D is a front perspective view. FIG. 2E is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A′ in FIG. 2D. FIG. 2F is a side perspective view. FIG. 2G is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B′ of FIG. 2F.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A-2G, the outermost surface of the lower (or first) housing portion 20 has a substantially semi-ellipsoidal shape and the outline of the lower housing portion 20 is an oval when viewed from above. The bottom 50 of the lower housing portion 20 is cut-off or flattened allowing the applicator device 10 to be set on a table or other surface without tipping. The bottom 50 of the lower housing portion 20 may also project inward from the lower-most point of the lower housing portion 20 allowing the device 10 to be gripped more easily by a user. The lower housing portion 20 may, for example, be forming by an injection molding process. However, it should be understood that other processes known in the art may also be used to form the lower housing portion 20. Furthermore, the lower housing portion 20 may, for example, be formed of polypropylene. However, the lower housing portion 20 is not limited to this material, and other plastics, thermoplastics or any other suitable material may be used in its place.

The substantially semi-ellipsoidal shape of the lower housing portion 20 advantageously allows a person grip and open the applicator device 10 in a convenient manner. However, it should be understood that the lower housing portion 20 is not limited to a semi-ellipsoidal shape and may take another shape, such as semi-spherical.

The lower (or first) housing portion 20 provides the platform on which the product 90 is mounted and secured. An opening 22 is provided within the first housing portion 20, and a portion 92 of the product 90 is provided within this opening 22. Referring to FIG. 4B, the width W1 of the portion 92 of the product 90 inserted into the opening 22 is less than the width W2 of the portion of the product 90 that rests on the uppermost surface of the lower housing portion 20. The portion 92 of the product 90 inserted into the opening 22 will hereinafter be referred to as the neck 92, and the remaining portion of the product is referred to as the application portion 94.

Returning to FIGS. 2A-2G, the opening 22 includes a plurality of splines/elongated protrusions 24. When the neck 92 of the product 90 is inserted into the opening 22, the protrusions 22 protrude within the neck 92. These protrusions help to secure the product 90 to the lower housing portion 20 and prevent unwanted movement of the product 90 after it is mounted to the lower housing portion 20.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A-2G, the outer wall 26 of the lower housing portion 20 is shaped like a basin. An inner wall 28 is formed within the outer wall 26 so as to create a groove 34 between the inner wall 28 and the outer wall 26. The inner wall 28 creates an opening 22 in which the neck 92 is inserted. Referring to FIG. 2A, the outer wall 26 may have a substantially oval cross-sectional shape, and the inner wall 28 may have a substantially circular shape that surrounds the opening 22. The splines/elongated protrusions 24 are formed on the inner surface of the inner wall 28, and the splines/elongated protrusions 24 project into the opening 22.

The lower housing portion 20 may also include an innermost wall 30 that surrounds a second opening 32. The innermost wall 30 may also be substantially circular. The inner wall 28 surrounds the innermost wall 30, and the height of the innermost wall 30 is less than the height of the inner wall 28. The width of the neck 92 is greater than the diameter of the innermost wall 30 (see, e.g., FIG. 4B). Therefore, the neck 92 rests on top of the innermost wall 30 when the neck 92 is inserted into the opening 22, and the innermost wall 30 provides support and stabilization for the product 90.

The basin shaped outer wall 26, the inner wall 28, and the innermost wall 30 create a structurally sound compartment for the product 90 that is light weight and saves on material. Because of this structure, the lower housing portion 20 does not have to be made of solid plastic. Instead, the inner wall 28 provides the opening 22 into which the product 90 is inserted, and the innermost wall 30 provides support for the product 90. However, it should be understood that alternatives are possible. For example, the second opening 32 can be created by reducing the width of the opening 22 once the depth of opening 22 is equal to the height of the neck 92. In this case, the innermost wall 30 is not necessary.

A first female socket 36 and a second female socket 38 are formed on diametrically opposing portions of the lower housing portion 20. The first and second female sockets 36 and 38 are each formed within the outer surface of the outer wall 26. Preferably, the first and second female sockets 36 and 38 are formed near the top 52 of the lower housing portion 20 along the short axis y (see FIG. 2C) where the width of the bottom housing portion 20 is smallest. Placing the first and second female sockets 36 along the short axis y is advantageous for opening and closing the applicator device 10 and handling the applicator device 10.

A first portion 40 of the clasp 16 is formed on the front of the lower housing portion 20. The first portion 40 may be an integrally formed part of the lower housing portion 20, or may be a separate part that is mounted to the lower housing portion 20. The clasp 16 helps to keep the applicator device 10 closed when the applicator device 10 is in the closed position. To do so, the first portion 40 of the clasp 16 may have a bump that slides into a recess formed in a second portion 66 of the clasp 16, as will be described in greater detail below. Of course, the first portion 40 of the clasp 16 may instead have a recess into which a bump of the second portion 66 fits.

A detent 42 may be formed on the lower housing portion below the clasp 16. The detent 42 may be an integrally formed part of the lower housing portion 20, or may be a separate part that is mounted to the lower housing portion 20. When the applicator device is rotated to the open position, the lip of the upper housing portion 60 opposite to the clasp 16 swings around and over the detent 42 (See FIG. 5B). The detent 42 then holds the upper portion 60 in the open position until the user rotates the upper housing portion 60 with sufficient force back to the closed position. When the device is in the open position, the detent 42 may fit within a matching groove 68 formed within the upper housing portion 60 in order to hold the upper housing portion 60 in the open position.

The bottom housing portion 20 may also include a snap bead 44 that circumscribes the lower housing portion 20 at or near the uppermost part of the lower housing portion 20. The snap bead 44 acts as seal ring that goes around the entirety of the lower housing portion 20 and fits within a matching groove 68 in the upper housing portion 60 of the applicator device 10. The snap bead 44 provides some seal integrity when the applicator device 10 is closed to protect the product in a more air tight environment. The snap bead 44 also helps to ensure that the applicator device 10 stays closed when in the closed position.

In an alternative embodiment, the snap bead 44 may be provided on the upper housing portion 60 rather than the bottom housing portion 20. In turn, the matching groove 68 is provided on the bottom housing portion 20 rather than the upper housing portion 60. Referring to FIGS. 7A-7E, in this embodiment, the snap bead 44 (which is the protruding male part) is moved to the inner surface of the upper housing portion 60, and the snap bead 44 projects from this inner surface. The snap bead 44 circumscribes the inner space of the upper housing portion at or near the lowermost part of the upper housing portion 60. The matching groove 68 is then formed at or near the uppermost part of the lower housing portion 20. Similar to the previous embodiment, the snap bead 44 fits within the matching groove 68 to help ensure that the applicator device 10 stays closed and to provide some seal integrity when the applicator device 10 is closed to protect the product in a more air tight environment.

Turning now to FIGS. 3A to 3G, which show the upper (or second) housing portion 60 of an applicator device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 3A-3C are top, bottom and trimetric perspective views. FIG. 3D is a side perspective view. FIG. 3E is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A′ in FIG. 3D. FIG. 3F is a back perspective view. FIG. 3G is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B′ of FIG. 3F.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A-3G, the outermost surface of the upper (or second) housing portion 60 has a substantially semi-ellipsoidal shape, and the outline of the upper housing portion is an oval when viewed from above. The top 80 of the upper housing portion 60 is cut-off or flattened. The top 80 may have an arcuate concave shape that projects inward. The arcuate concave shape of the top 80 allows a user to better grip the applicator device 10, and may also be used to open the applicator device 10 by, for example, placing a finger or another part of the hand on the arcuate concave surface of the top 60 of the upper housing portion 60.

The substantially semi-ellipsoidal shape of the upper housing portion 60 advantageously allows a person to grip and open the applicator device 10 in a convenient manner. However, it should be understood that the upper housing portion 60 is not limited to a semi-ellipsoidal shape and may take another shape, such as semi-spherical.

The upper housing portion 60 is manufactured as a shell with sufficient space to house the product 90 when the applicator device 10 is in the closed position, and to house part or all of the lower housing portion 20 when the applicator device 10 is in the open position. The upper housing portion 60 may, for example, be forming by an injection molding process. However, it should be understood that other processes known in the art may also be used to form the upper housing portion 60. The upper housing portion 60 may, for example, be formed of polypropylene. However, the upper housing is not limited to this material and other plastics, thermoplastics or another suitable material may be used in its place.

The upper housing portion includes a first male post 62 and a second male post 64. The first male post 62 and the second male post 64 engage the first female socket 36 and the second female socket 38, respectively, to form the first pivot joint 12 and the second pivot joint 14. The first and second male posts 62 and 64 may have, for example, a circular shape. In such a case, the first and second female sockets 36 and 38 have complementary circular shapes, with the first and second female sockets 36 and 38 having a slightly larger diameter than that of the first and second male posts 62 and 64, so that the first and second male posts 62 and 64 can fit within the first and second female sockets 36 and 38.

The first and second male posts 62 and 64 project outward from an inner surface of the upper housing portion 60 and are positioned to allow the upper housing portion 60 to rotate about the lower housing portion 20. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A-3G, the first and second male posts 62 and 64 are formed on diametrically opposing portions of the upper housing portion 60 near the bottom of the upper portion 60. Further, the first and second male posts 62 and 64 are formed along the short axis y (see FIG. 3C) where the width of the upper housing portion 60 is smallest. The first and second male posts 62 and 64 may be integrally formed parts of the upper housing portion 60, or may be separate parts mounted to the upper housing portion 60. The first and second male posts 62 and 64 may also have hollow interiors as can be seen in FIG. 3E.

A second portion 66 of the clasp 16 is formed on the front of the upper housing portion 60. The second portion 66 may be an integrally formed part of the upper housing portion 60, or may be a separate part that is mounted to the upper housing portion 60. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A-3G, the second portion 66 has a recess into which the protrusion of the first housing portion fits. Of course, the second portion 66 of the clasp 16 may instead have a bump that fits into a recess.

The upper housing portion 60 may also include a matching groove 68 formed within the inner surface of upper housing portion 60. The matching groove 68 circumscribes the inner space of the upper housing portion 60 and matches the shape of the snap bead 44. As noted above, the combination of the matching groove 68 and snap bead 44 provides some seal integrity when the applicator device 10 is closed to protect the product in a more air tight environment, and helps to ensure that the applicator device 10 stays closed when in the closed position.

Turning now to FIGS. 4A-5D, which show an embodiment of the applicator device 10 in its closed and open positions. FIGS. 4A-4D are perspective and cross-sectional views showing an embodiment of the applicator device 10 in the closed position, and FIGS. 5A-5D are perspective and cross-section views showing an embodiment of the applicator device 10 in the open position.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4A-5D, the neck 92 of the product 90 is inserted into the opening 22 of the lower housing portion 20, and the splines/elongated protrusions 24 project into the neck 92. In one aspect of the invention, the product 90 is manufacturing using a molding process. In the molding process, a liquefied product is poured into a mold and is then cooled so that the product solidifies. Preferably, the product 90 is molded to the correct shape and inserted into the opening 22 of the lower housing portion 20. However, the product may alternatively be cut into its desired shape after it is molded. It should be understood that the manner of manufacturing the product 90 is not limited to this process, and those of ordinary skill in the art can envision alternative processes for creating the product 90 including, for example, a hot pour process.

In addition to the neck 92, the product 90 includes an application portion 94 that is exposed when the applicator device 10 is in the open position. The application portion 94 rests on the top 52 of the lower housing portion 10. The outermost surface of the application portion 94 of the product may have an arcuate shape. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4A-4D, the application portion 94 has an ovate or semi-ellipsoidal shape. The ovate or semi-ellipsoidal shape of the application portion 94 is preferable as it is best for the application of the product 90 to a user's lips. However, the application portion 94 may take other shapes, such as semi-spherical. The width W2 of the bottom of the application portion 94 resting on the top 52 of the lower housing portion 10 is large enough such that the product 90 covers the groove 34 formed between the outer wall 26 and the inner wall 28.

In an embodiment, the application portion 94 of the product 90 is sized and shaped such that a user can apply the product 90 to the upper lip and lower lip simultaneously. In turn, the upper and lower housing members 60 and 20 are manufactured to have a size that is sufficient to accommodate a product 90 capable of being applied to both the upper and lower lips simultaneously.

The upper housing portion 60 is connected to the lower housing portion 20 by way of the first and second pivot joints 12 and 14. The first male post 62 of the upper housing portion 60 is inserted into the first female socket 36 of the lower housing portion 20 to form the first pivot joint 12. Similarly, the second male post 64 of the upper housing portion 60 is inserted into the second female socket 38 of the lower housing portion 20 to form the second pivot joint 14. The first and second pivot joints 12, 14 provide the means by which the upper housing portion 60 rotates about the lower housing portion 20 between the open and closed positions.

When in the closed position, clasp 16 helps to keep the applicator device 10 closed when the device 10 is in the closed position. The clasp 16 includes first and second portions 40 and 66 formed on the front of the lower housing portion 20 and the upper housing portion 60, respectively. Clasp 16 also restricts the rotation of the upper housing portion 60 to one direction. For example, a user may open the applicator device 10 by moving the second portion 66 of the clasp 16 upward and away from the first portion 40 of the clasp 16 on the lower housing portion 20. Movement in the opposite direction is restricted, since the first portion of the clasp 40 abuts against the edge of the upper housing portion 60 when the applicator device is in the closed position (see FIG. 4A).

The clasp 16 is sized and shaped to allow a user to open the applicator device by forcing the first portion 40 of the clasp and the second portion 66 of the clasp in opposing directions. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4A-5D, the clasp extends along most if not all of the front of the applicator device 16. However, the clasp 16 is not limited to this shape, and may, for example, occupy a smaller space on the front of the applicator device, as shown in FIG. 6A.

One of the first and second portions 40, 66 has a bump and the other has a recess into which the bump fits. When in the open position, the lip of the upper housing portion 60 opposite to the clasp 12 swings around and over the detent 42 (see FIG. 5B). The detent 42 then holds the upper housing portion 60 in the open position.

The snap bead 44 also helps to ensure that the applicator device stays closed when in the closed position. The snap bead 44 goes around the entirety of the lower housing portion 20 and fits within a matching groove 68 in the upper housing portion 60 of the applicator device 10. The snap bead 44 provides some seal integrity when the applicator device 10 is closed to protect the product in a more air tight environment.

In the embodiments discussed above, the first and second pivot joints 12 and 14 are formed by a combination of first and second female sockets 36 and 38 formed within the lower housing member 20 and first and second male posts 62 and 64 projecting from the upper housing portion 60. However in another embodiment, the pivot joints may be reversed, with male posts projecting from the lower housing member 20 and female openings formed within the upper housing member 60. This configuration is shown in FIGS. 6A-6C. This configuration could be considered less desirable as is creates an external seam that could accumulate dirt.

The following is a method of using an applicator device 10 according to an embodiment of the invention. As an initial step, an applicator device 10, such as the embodiment of the applicator device 10 shown in FIGS. 4A-5B, is obtained. The applicator device has a lower housing portion 20 onto which a skin-care product 90 is mounted and an upper housing portion 60 that rotates about the lower housing portion 20.

Upon sufficient force from the user, the upper housing portion 60 is moved from the closed position to the open position. This may be accomplished in a number of different ways. In one example, the clasp 16 is used to open the applicator device 10. In this example, the first portion 40 of the clasp and the second portion 66 of the clasp are pushed in opposing directions. In another example, a user may place a finger on the concave arcuate shape of the top 80 of the upper housing portion 60 and apply force to the top 80 of the upper housing portion 60 sufficient to open the applicator device 10. As another example, the semi-ellipsoid shape of the upper and lower housing portions 60, 20 allow a user to grip and open the applicator device with one hand. In this example, a user can place a thumb on the concave arcuate top 80 of the upper housing member 60 while wrapping one or more fingers around the lower housing portion 20. Upon applying sufficient force with the thumb, the user can then open the applicator device 10.

Upon opening the applicator device, the product 90 is applied to a user's lips and/or skin. The product 90 may be sized and shaped to allow a user to apply the product 90 to both of the lips simultaneously. As noted above, an ovate shape is particularly useful for application to a user's lips. However, the product may take other shapes, such as semi-spherical. Upon application of the product 90, the applicator device 10 may be returned to its closed position.

While certain embodiments of the applicator device have been described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be apparent that modifications and variations thereto are possible, all of which fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention. The invention also includes all of the steps, features, compositions and compounds referred to or indicated in this specification, individually or collectively, and any and all combinations of any two or more of said steps or features.

As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception, upon which this disclosure is based may readily be utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the present invention. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalent constructions insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Further, the purpose of the foregoing abstract is to enable the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally, and especially the scientist, engineers and practitioners in the art who are not familiar with the patent or legal terms or phraseology, to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and essence of the technical disclosure of the application. The abstract is neither intended to define the invention of the application, which is measured by the claims, nor is it intended to be limiting as to the scope of the invention in any way.

These together with other aspects of the invention, along with the various features of novelty that characterize the invention, are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and the specific aspects attained by its uses, reference should be had to the accompanying drawings and description matter in which there are illustrated preferred embodiments of the invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An applicator device comprising:

a first housing portion to which a product is attached;

a second housing portion rotatably connected to the first housing portion so as to allow the second housing portion to rotate about the first housing portion between a closed position and an open position, wherein:

the second housing portion rotates about the first housing portion such that, in the closed position the product is enclosed within the first housing portion and the second housing portion, and in the open position the product is exposed and the first housing portion is at least partially housed within the second housing portion.

2. The applicator device of claim 1, further comprising a first pivot joint and a second pivot joint, the second housing portion being rotatably connected to the first housing portion by way of the first pivot joint and the second pivot joint.

3. The applicator device of claim 2, wherein:

the first pivot joint comprises a first male post formed on an inner surface of the second housing portion and a first female socket formed within the first housing portion, the first male post and the first female socket being shaped such that the first male post fits within the first female socket; and

the second pivot joint comprises a second male post formed on the inner surface of the second housing and a second female socket formed within the first housing portion, the second male post and the second female socket being shaped such that the second male post fits within the first female socket,

wherein the first and second male posts are formed on opposing sides of the second housing section and the first and second female sockets are formed within opposing sides of the first housing section, so as to allow the second housing portion to rotate about the first housing portion.

4. The applicator device of claim 2, wherein:

the first pivot joint comprises a first male post formed on an outer surface of the first housing portion and a first female opening extending through the second housing portion, the first male post and the first female opening being shaped such that the first male post fits within the first female opening; and

the second pivot joint comprises a second male post formed on an outer surface of the first housing portion and a second female opening extending through the second housing portion, the second male post and the second female opening being shaped such that the second male post fits within the second female opening,

wherein the first and second male posts are formed on opposing sides of the first housing section and the first and second female sockets are formed through opposing sides of the second housing section, so as to allow the second housing portion to rotate about the first housing portion.

5. The applicator device of claim 1, wherein the first housing portion has a substantially semi-ellipsoidal shape to which a lower portion is cut off to form a bottom surface.

6. The applicator device of claim 5, wherein the bottom surface projects inward from the lowermost point of the first housing portion.

7. The applicator device of claim 1, wherein the first housing portion comprises an opening into which a portion of the product is inserted, the opening having a plurality of elongated protrusions protruding into the product.

8. The applicator device of claim 7, wherein the first housing portion comprises:

an outer wall;

an inner wall surrounded by the outer wall such that a groove is formed between the inner wall and the outer wall,

wherein the inner wall surrounds the opening into which the product is inserted, and the elongated projections project from the inner wall into the opening.

9. The applicator device of claim 8, wherein the outer wall has a substantially oval cross-sectional shape, and the inner wall has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape.

10. The applicator device of claim 8, wherein the first housing portion further comprises an innermost wall formed within the inner wall, wherein the height of the innermost wall is less than the height of the inner wall such that the portion of the product inserted into the inner wall rests on top of the innermost wall.

11. The applicator device of claim 1, wherein the applicator device further comprises a clasp for holding the applicator device in the closed position, wherein:

the first housing portion includes a first portion of the clasp formed on an outer surface thereon and the second housing portion includes a second portion of the clasp formed on an outer surface thereof,

the first portion of the clasp has at least one of a bump and a recess, and the second portion of the clasp has the other of the bump and the recess, and

when the second housing portion is in the closed position, the bump is within the recess.

12. The applicator device of claim 1, wherein the first housing portion includes a detent formed on an outer surface thereof, the detent holding the first housing portion in place when in the open position.

13. The applicator device of claim 1, wherein a top of the second housing portion has an arcuate concave surface that projects inward.

14. The applicator device of claim 1, wherein the second housing member has a substantially semi-ellipsoidal shape to which an upper portion is cut-off to form a top surface.

15. The applicator device of claim 1, wherein the product is a lip balm.

16. The applicator device of claim 1, wherein the first and second housing portions are made of polypropylene.

17. The applicator device of claim 1, wherein the lower housing portion comprises at least one of a snap bead and a matching groove that circumscribes the lower housing portion, and the upper housing portion comprises the other of the snap bead and the matching groove, wherein the snap bead fits within the matching groove.

18. An applicator device comprising:

a first housing portion;

a product attached to the first housing portion;

a second housing portion connected to the first housing section;

the first housing portion comprising: an opening into which a portion of the product is inserted, the opening having a plurality of elongated protrusions protruding into the product.

19. The applicator device of claim 18, wherein the first housing portion further comprises:

an outermost wall;

an inner wall surrounded by the outermost wall such that a groove is formed between the inner wall and the outermost wall,

wherein the inner wall surrounds the opening into which the product is inserted, and the elongated protrusions project from the inner wall into the opening.

20. The applicator device of claim 19, wherein the first housing portion further comprises an innermost wall formed within the inner wall, wherein the height of the innermost wall is less than the height of the inner wall, and the portion of the product inserted into the inner wall rests on top of the innermost wall.

21. The applicator device of claim 18, wherein the product has an ovate shape.

22. A method of using an applicator device, the method comprising the acts of:

obtaining the applicator device comprising: a first housing portion; a product attached to the first housing portion; a second housing portion rotatably connected to the first housing portion;

rotating the second housing portion about the first housing portion from a closed position to an open position;

pressing the product of the applicator device onto one or both lips of a user to apply the product to the one or both lips.