MAGNETIC MAKEUP CASE

Abstract

A cosmetics case having a housing configured to receive and contain cosmetics brushes. The case additionally having a lid and an interior shelf. The interior shelf including a recessed region containing a planar magnet such that a user can selectively magnetically engage cosmetics contained within a metal pan with the planar magnet in the recessed region. The lid, housing and interior shelf having embedded complimentary magnets position and configured to hold the case securely closed until a user desires to open and access the case.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This Application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) from earlier filed U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/555,415, filed Sep. 7, 2017, the complete contents of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

This disclosure relates generally to the field of makeup kits and more specifically to the field of customizable makeup kits.

Background

The subject matter discussed in the background section should not be assumed to be prior art merely as a result of its mention in the background section. Similarly, a problem and the understanding of the causes of a problem mentioned in the background section or associated with the subject matter in the background section should not be assumed to have been previously recognized in the prior art. The subject matter in the background section merely represents different approaches which may, individually and/or collectively, be independently patentable.

Makeup or cosmetic cases have been used for centuries to transport and organize makeup at home or for carrying in a suitcase, gym bag, or handbag (purse). The cases vary depending on the use from large professional cases that can carry every imaginable item to small compact cases that can be used to carry what might be needed in emergencies. Traditionally, makeup cases carry trays of makeup, a mirror, brushes, and/or pads for application of makeup. A separate container is usually required for types of makeup or personal toiletry items that are not placed in trays, such as lipstick tubes, mascara, eyebrow pencils, lip liners, perfume, lotion, cover- up sticks, etc. Professional cosmeticians may also have a care for carrying quick fix-ups. However, these devices are often not capable of carrying what an individual may actually desire and/or may be too small or too large or not include the features desired by a user.

What is needed is a user-customizable cosmetics case adapted and configured to conveniently contain desired cosmetics, applicators and/or related materials.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Although the following figures depict various examples of the device, the device is not limited to the examples depicted in the figures. Further details of the present device are explained with the help of the attached drawings in which:

FIG. 1 depicts a top view of an embodiment of magnetic makeup case.

FIG. 2 depicts an embodiment of a magnetic makeup case or kit with the magnetic board lifted.

FIGS. 3-7 depict various embodiments of a magnetic makeup case or kit.

FIGS. 8-9 depict flowcharts of embodiments of methods of manufacturing a magnetic makeup kit.

FIG. 10 depicts an alternate embodiment of a magnetic makeup case or kit.

FIG. 11 depicts an exploded view of the embodiment of the magnetic makeup case or kit depicted in FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 depicts a side view of the embodiment of the magnetic makeup case or kit depicted in FIGS. 10 and 11 with an open lid.

FIG. 13 depicts a side view of the embodiment of the magnetic makeup case or kit depicted in FIGS. 10-12 with an open lid and a raised magnetic tray.

FIG. 14 depicts a rear isometric view of the base of the magnetic makeup case or kit depicted in FIGS. 10-13.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, “a”, “an”, and “the” includes plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Although various embodiments of the invention may have been motivated by various deficiencies with the prior art, which may be discussed or alluded to in one or more places in the specification, the embodiments of the invention do not necessarily address any of these deficiencies. In other words, different embodiments of the invention may address different deficiencies that may be discussed in the specification. Some embodiments may only partially address some deficiencies or just one deficiency that may be discussed in the specification, and some embodiments may not address any of these deficiencies.

In general, at the beginning of the discussion of each of FIGS. 1-3 is a brief description of each element, which may have no more than the name of each of the elements in the one of FIGS. 1-3 that is being discussed. After the brief description of each element, each element is further discussed in numerical order. In general, each of FIGS. 1-5 is discussed in numerical order and the elements within FIGS. 1-5 are also usually discussed in numerical order to facilitate easily locating the discussion of a particular element. Nonetheless, there is no one location where all of the information of any element of FIGS. 1-5 is necessarily located. Unique information about any particular element or any other aspect of any of FIGS. 1-5 may be found in, or implied by, any part of the specification.

In various places in discussing the drawings a range of letters, such as a-g, are used to refer to individual elements of various series of elements that are the same. In each of these series, the ending letters are integer variables that can be any number. Unless indicated otherwise, the number of elements in each of these series is unrelated to the number of elements in others of these series. Specifically, even though one letter (e.g. “b”) comes earlier in the alphabet than another letter (e.g., “c”), the order of these letters in the alphabet does not mean that the earlier letter represents a smaller number. The value of the earlier letter is unrelated to the later letter and may represent a value that is greater the same or less than the later letter.

FIG. 1 depicts an embodiment of a magnetic makeup case 100. The magnetic makeup case 100 can include a cover 110, a tray 120, tray fasteners 125, a magnetic board 130, a cover closure 140, notches for lifting the cover 150, and a hinge 160. In alternate embodiments magnetic makeup case 100 may not include some of the elements or features listed and/or can have other elements or features instead of or in addition to those listed.

Cover 110 can function to close the magnetic makeup case 100. Cover 110 can also function to aid in the application of makeup (e.g., via a mirror that can be attached to the cover 110). Cover 110 can be closed using any mechanism known in the art that allows for closing the cover completely and reversibly. In some embodiments, cover 110 can be releasably held closed using a magnetic mechanism. In alternate embodiments, cover 110 can be releasably closed using a clasp (e.g., a fore-edge clasp), a snap (e.g., a tongue and groove snap), a turnlock and/or any other known, convenient and/or desired mechanism. In some embodiments, the cover can be attached via a spring that can automatically close the cover 110. In some embodiments, cover 110 can be lined in a material such as silk, satin, felt, velvet, and/or any other known, convenient and/or desired material, substance, item or composition of matter. Cover 110 can be flush to the top of tray 120 or can be produced to be raised in order to accommodate some or all of the height of makeup pans sitting on the magnetic board. That is, in some embodiments, some of the height of the makeup pans can be accommodated by the cover (e.g., the cover can be raised), so that the magnetic board need not be recessed into the cavity.

Tray 120 comprises a cavity for the magnetic board and any components to be included or used in conjunction with the magnetic makeup case 100. Thus, tray 120 has sides, a bottom, and a rim created by the width of the sides. Tray 120 can be large enough to have both a cavity for containing brushes and other components and a magnetic board that can be recessed into the cavity sufficiently such that metal makeup pans can be set on the magnetic board while the cover is closed. Tray 120 can also include elements that support the magnetic board, blocking the magnetic board from sitting directly on the bottom of the tray. In some embodiments, the elements that support the board can protrude from the walls that create the cavity (see e.g., blockers in FIG. 2).

In some embodiments, one or more tray fastener(s) 125 can be included in the magnetic makeup case 100. Tray fastener(s) 125 can function to close the magnetic makeup case and can work in combination with cover fasteners 140. Tray fastener(s) 125 can include any part of the fastener(s) necessary to result in a removably closed case 100. In some embodiments, tray fasteners can be a portion of a magnetic closure, a clasp, or a snap. That is, tray fastener(s) can be coupled to or with any part of the tray including, but not limited to, the inside or outside of the sides, the rim of the sides and the bottom.

In some embodiment, the magnetic board 130 can rest within and towards the top of the cavity in the tray. The magnetic board 130 can operate to keep metal makeup pans removably coupled to or with the magnetic board 130. To keep metal makeup pans to or with, the magnetic board 130 can be comprised of, or contain, a magnetic or magnetized material that covers at least a portion of or up to 100% of the surface. In some embodiments, the magnetic board 130 can be comprised completely of a magnetic or magnetized material. In some embodiments, the magnetic board can have a magnetic or magnetized material affixed to it and covering a portion or up to 100% of the surface, including, but not limited to 99%, 95%, 90%, 85%, 80%, 75%, 70%, 65%, 60%, 55%, 50%, 45%, 40%, 35%, 30% and/or any other convenient and/or desired percentage. In at some embodiments, the magnetic or magnetized material can cover parts of the surface in a random, intermittent and/or periodic pattern (e.g., in polka dots). In some embodiments, the magnetic or magnetized material can be applied or reapplied using adhesive elements included with the magnetic case 100. In some embodiments, the magnetic board 130 can be recessed within the cavity sufficiently to allow for closure of the cover 110 when makeup pans are set on the board. That is, in some embodiments, the magnetic board 130 can accommodate some or all of the height of makeup pans while the lid is in a closed position. Thus, the recess may be as much as or slightly more than the height of the tallest makeup pan. In some embodiments, the cover 110 can comprise a cavity within which part or all of the makeup pans can protrude into. The magnetic board 130 can be set into the tray 120 by any means. In some embodiments the magnetic board 130 can be set into the tray 120 via one or more blockers (see FIG. 2). In some embodiments, the board 130 can be affixed to the cover 110 and tray 120 via a hinge mechanism and kept horizontal via a blocker in the front and/or sides of the tray 120. The magnetic board 130 can be substantially the same width as the inner width of tray 120 such that the cavity can be completely covered, leaving between a small gap, which can be between a millimeter and a 1/10th of a millimeter, between the walls of the tray 120 and the edges of the magnetic board 130, such that magnetic board 130 can freely move into and out of tray 120. The magnetic board 130 can further comprise edges that are recessed or as high as the tray to allow for easy removal of the magnetic board 130 from the tray 120. In some alternate embodiments, the magnetic board 130 can comprise a handle, loop, or notch that facilitates removal.

In some embodiments, one or more cover fastener(s) 140 can be coupled with cover 110. Cover fastener(s) can function to close the magnetic makeup case and can work in combination with tray fasteners 125. Cover fastener(s) can include any part of the fastener(s) necessary to hold case 100 securely closed in a manner that allows a user to selective open the case 100. In some embodiments, cover fasteners 140 can be the other half of a magnetic fasteners 125, a clasp or clasps, a snap or snaps and/or any other known convenient and/or desired user-selectively fastenable/releasable mechanism. As such, cover fastener(s) can be attached to or integral with any part of the cover, including, but not limited to, the inside or outside, the sides (e.g., if the cover is not a flat cover), and the top.

In some embodiment, the case 100 can comprise notches for lifting the cover 150 to facilitate lifting the cover 110 to open the case 100. The embodiment depicted in FIG. 1 depicts notches as small slots in the sides of the tray that overlap with the cover 110 and allow a user to pull the cover 110 up and off of the tray 120. However, in alternate embodiments, the notches for lifting the cover 150 can be constructed in a variety of ways and may not even be notches but might be small finger holds or handles on the cover 110.

As depicted in FIG. 1, the case 100 can comprise one or more hinges 160 to facilitate opening of the case 100. In some embodiments, the hinges can be operably attached to the cover and tray such that the cover can be opened away from the tray. In some embodiments, the hinges can also comprise springs and/or be otherwise biased in any known, convenient and/or desired manner. By way of non-limiting example, the springs can have two stable configurations—one configuration in which the cover is open and the spring is not strong enough to pull the cover 110 closed and one configuration in which the cover 110 is held closed by the spring. In alternate embodiments, the case 100 can have multiple sable configurations.

FIG. 2 depicts an embodiment of a magnetic makeup case or kit 200. The magnetic makeup case or kit can comprise all of the components of FIG. 1 (e.g., a cover 110, a tray 120, tray fasteners 125, a magnetic board 130, a cover closure 140, notches for lifting the cover 150, a hinge 160) as well as a cavity 275, a support 270, brushes 280a-g, and metal make-up pans 290a-g. In some embodiments magnetic makeup case 100 may not have some or all of the elements or features listed and/or may comprise other elements or features instead of or in addition to those listed.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2, cavity 275 can be adapted and configured to store of various components typically included in a makeup kit. The components can comprise any items associated with makeup. The components can comprise items used as makeup and/or for makeup application, such as brushes. In addition to brushes (280a-g), the cavity can be used to store makeup pans (metal or otherwise), cleaning and/or application pads, cotton swabs, liners, eyebrow stencils, tweezers, lipstick tubes, mascara, eyebrow pencils, lip liners, perfume, lotion, cover-up sticks, cleaners and/or any other known, convenient and/or desired items and/or devices. The cavity 275 can also be constructed to contain separators to create a variety of different dimensioned cavities within the one cavity 275.

Support(s) 270 can be adapted and configured to support the magnetic board 130 when the magnetic board 130 is placed in the tray on top of the support(s). Thus, the support(s) can be adapted and configured to establish the distance from the bottom of the cavity 275 to the bottom of the magnetic board 130. The support 270 can be placed in the front of the tray 120. In some alternate embodiments, the support(s) 270 can be placed in the sides and/or back of the tray 120 and/or may be absent and the distance between the bottom of the cavity and the bottom of the magnetic board 130 can be established in any known, convenient and/or desired manner such as by cantilever support. In some embodiments, there can be at least one support 270 in the front of the tray and one or more hinges in the back of the tray 120 coupled with the magnetic board 130 and adapted and configured to support the magnetic board 130 in place to create a cavity of at least substantially uniform or uniform depth. In some embodiments, the support(s) 270 can be absent if the magnetic board is fitted with a lip that fits over the back, sides, and/or front of the tray without interfering with the closing of the cover.

In some embodiments, one or more brushes 280a-g can be included in a kit alone or in combination with metal makeup pans 290a-g. In alternate embodiments, one or more brushes 280a-g are included in combination with the type of makeup that they are used to apply. By way of non-limiting example, if makeup pan(s) are included for eye shadow, one or more brushes can be included for each color of eye shadow that can be used to apply the eye shadow. The brushes can be any type of brushes and/or can be of a length and width that fits within the cavity without interfering with the closing of the cover.

Metal make-up pans 290a-g can include one or more makeup pans that are filled with one or more types of makeup. The makeup pans 290a-g can be produced of any type of metal that can be held in place or substantially in place by the magnetic board. The make-up pans 290a-g can be of a thickness that can fit within the magnetic board (and/or the cover) without interfering with the closing of the cover. The metal makeup pans 290a-g can include makeup for eye shadow, eye liner, lipstick, blush, coverup, foundation, powder, blemish cream and/or any other known, convenient and/or desired cosmetic item or item related to cosmetics. In some embodiments, a kit can contain metal makeup pans 290a-g for at least eye makeup.

In some embodiments, the magnetic makeup case 100 can be sold separately from the makeup and/or brushes and a purchaser can choose components that fit in the cavity 120, recessed magnetic board 130 and/or cover 110. In some embodiments, the components can be comprised of makeup pans, brushes and/or any other known, convenient and/or desired cosmetic item or item related to cosmetics. In some alternate embodiments, makeup pans can be sold as a group (makeup color group, complexion group, hair color group, skin type group, age group, and/or other known, convenient and/or desired grouping) that can be pre-packaged to be sold in combination with the makeup case and/or sold as a kit with the makeup case 100. As such, a purchaser can create their own kit.

FIG. 3 depicts an embodiment of a magnetic makeup case or kit 300 depicting the magnetic board with makeup pans. The magnetic makeup case or kit 300 can comprise all of the components of FIG. 1 (e.g., a cover 110, a tray 120, tray fasteners 125, a magnetic board 130, a cover closure 140, notches for lifting the cover 150, a hinge 160) and/or FIG. 2 as well as metal make-up pans 290a-g. In alternate embodiments some or all of the elements or features listed may be absent and/or can comprise other/alternate elements or features instead of or in addition to those listed.

The embodiment depicted in FIG. 3 demonstrates how the metal makeup pans 290a-g can be set upon the magnetic board 130 and (removeably) held securely in position by magnetic attraction. Thus, the magnet for the magnetic board 130 and the metal for the makeup pans 290a-g can be selected such that a secure coupling can be made while still allowing removal of the makeup pans 290a-g without damaging them. In some embodiments, the magnets can be selected such that they hold the makeup pans 290a-g firmly in place even if the makeup kit/case is shaken. As shown in FIG. 3, the magnetic board does not require any wells or separators of fixed size. Thus, the metal makeup pans can be of any shape (e.g., round, square, triangular, rectangular and oval). Further, any combination of sizes (e.g., diameter or width) of makeup pans can be used, because there are not wells of fixed sizes that the pans need to fit into.

As depicted in FIG. 3, some of makeup pans can have a larger diameter than others. The makeup pans 290a-g can fit anywhere on the magnetic board 130 and any number of pans can be included that fit on the magnetic board 130. The makeup pans 290a-g can contain any type of makeup, including, but not limited to, eye shadow, eye liner, blush, coverup, lip liner, brow color, pancake makeup, powder, bronzer, highlighter, contour makeup and/or any other known, convenient and/or desired cosmetic item or item related to cosmetics. In some embodiments, the purchaser can choose which makeup pans and/or which size to purchase with the magnetic makeup kit. In some alternate embodiments, kits containing the correct number of makeup pans to fit onto the board are provided with the magnetic makeup case for purchasers. The makeup that is provided can include special kits that are tailored for people with a certain eye color, complexion, hair color, or color combination based on lipstick and blush (e.g., pink, red, peach, plum, brown, bronze, and orange).

FIGS. 4-7 depicts engineering/construction drawings of embodiments of a magnetic makeup case. These figures provide exemplary, non-limiting dimensions for of components of the makeup case. In FIG. 4, exemplary, non-limiting dimensions for the tray are provided with specific examples of how the makeup case can be constructed in some embodiment. As depicted in FIG. 4, the cover (lid) can be coupled with the tray via dowel pins. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4, the case can be held closed using 4 small circular magnets and/or two magnets and two magnetically attractive circular components—two attached to the cover and two attached to the tray. As depicted, the magnetic board can be constructed using a magnetic sheet that is recessed in the center tray and completely covers the tray—excluding a small non-recessed lip around the center tray.

In FIG. 5, identifies potential, exemplary and non-limiting dimensions for an embodiment of the makeup case, including the tray closures, and the notches and FIG. 6 identifies potential, exemplary and non-limiting dimensions for the cover (lid). Further, FIG. 7 identifies potential, exemplary and non-limiting dimensions for the inner tray (the magnetic board).

Provided herein are methods for making a magnetic makeup kit. The magnetic makeup case allows one to create their own makeup kit by including metal makeup pans and other instruments as desired. Alternatively, the magnetic makeup case can be produced as a kit that already includes an assortment of makeup.

FIG. 8 depicts a flowchart of an embodiment of a method 900 in which a magnetic makeup kit is put together, which is discussed in further detail, below in conjunction with FIG. 9.

In step 810 the cover can be opened. This can occur within a factory, or alternatively, a customer can purchase and/or acquire a magnetic makeup case and choose which components to include within the case.

In step 820, the magnetic board can be opened and brushes can be placed in the cavity. This can occur in a factory setting or a customer can purchase and/or acquire a magnetic makeup case and select which brushes to include in the cavity. In some embodiments, brushes can be sold alongside the magnetic makeup case singly or in groups that are specially made to fit within the cavity.

In step 830, metal makeup pans can be placed onto the magnetic board. This can occur in a factory setting or a customer can purchase or acquire a magnetic makeup case and select which makeup pans to include on the magnetic board. In some embodiments, metal makeup pans can be sold alongside the magnetic makeup case that are made of a metal that allows for selective attachment to and removal from the magnetic board. In some embodiments, metal makeup pans can be sold alongside the magnetic makeup case that are of a thickness that can fit within the recess of the magnetic board without interfering with the closing of the cover.

In step 840, the cover can be closed over the components and/or makeup pans without gap and/or with a convenient and/or desired gap. Thus, the components and makeup pans can be dimensioned and/or proportioned to allow for easy and complete closing of the makeup case.

In some embodiments, components can comprise, but are not limited to, makeup, instruments, cleaners, cleaning implements, bushes, pads, cotton swabs, and/or any other known, convenient and/or desired cosmetic item or item related to cosmetics. In some embodiments, the magnetic makeup case can be sold separately from the makeup and/or brushes and the purchaser can select components that fit in the cavity and on the magnetic board. In some embodiments, the components can comprise makeup pans, brushes and/or any other known, convenient and/or desired cosmetic item or item related to cosmetics. In some further embodiments, the makeup pans can be sold as a group (color group, type of skin group, skin color group, etc.) that can be pre-packaged to be sold with the makeup case. In this way the purchase can create their own kit.

If the makeup case is produced and/or sold as a completed kit, the makeup case can be covered with plastic wrap to keep the makeup inside from being lost, stolen and/or used. Thus, the makeup can be kept dry and clean (or sterile) using a plastic wrap.

In an embodiment, each of the steps of method 800 is a distinct step. In another embodiment, although depicted as distinct steps in FIG. 8, step 810-840 may not be distinct steps. In alternate embodiments, method 800 some of the above steps may be absent and/or can comprise other steps in addition to or instead of those listed above. Moreover in alternate embodiments, the steps of method 800 can be performed in another order. Subsets of the steps listed above as part of method 800 can be used to form their own method.

FIG. 9 depicts a flowchart of an embodiment of a method 900 in which a magnetic makeup case can be constructed by attaching the magnetic board and tray to one another by attaching both to the same set of hinges.

In step 910 the cover can be constructed. The cover can be molded or formed or manufactured using any other known, convenient and/or desired material and/or technique or method. A mirror can be attached to the cover on the inside. The top of the cover can be decorated. For example, the sides of the cover can be constructed, and fasteners can be attached to the sides of the cover, and then the sides of the cover can be attached to the top of the cover.

In step 920, the tray can be constructed. The tray can be molded or formed or manufactured using any other known, convenient and/or desired material and/or technique or method. In some embodiments, the tray can be molded or formed of a material that is the same as the cover. However, in alternate embodiments the materials can differ. By way of another non-limiting example, the bottom of the tray can be formed and the sides of the tray can be formed, the supports of the tray can be formed, and the fasteners can be formed. The bottom and sides of the tray can be attached to one another. The supports to the tray can also be attached to the tray. The fasteners can also be attached to the tray.

In step 930, the cover can be attached to the tray using one or more hinges. In some embodiments, the cover can be attached to the tray in such that it can be easily opened at least part way to allow access to the makeup. By way of non-limiting example, both the cover and the tray can be attached to the same set of hinges (which is different than the set of hinges attached to the magnetic board).

In step 940, the magnetic board can be constructed and placed in the case such that a cavity is left under the board and within the tray. In some embodiments, the magnetic board can be constructed from a magnetic material. In some alternate embodiments, the magnetic board can be covered with a magnetic material over up to 100% of the surface and/or any percentage thereof. The magnetic board can be set into the magnetic makeup case such that a cavity can be created, and the cover can close. The magnetic board can be set into the makeup case such that there is enough room to accommodate makeup pans set onto the board. By way of non-limiting example, hinges can be formed, and both the tray and magnetic tray can be attached to the same set of hinges. Thus, the magnetic board can be recessed, and/or the cover can be raised. In some embodiments, the magnetic board can be recessed, and/or the cover raised enough to fit one or more metal makeup pans onto it and still be able to close the cover.

In some embodiments, each of the steps of method 900 can be a distinct step. In alternate embodiments, although depicted as distinct steps in FIG. 9, step 910-940 may not be distinct steps. In further alternate embodiments, method 900 some of the above steps may be absent and/or the method can comprise other steps in addition to or instead of those listed above. The steps of method 900 can also be performed in another order. Subsets of the steps listed above as part of method 900 may be used to form their own method.

In some embodiments, a locking mechanism can be included on the magnetic makeup case and/or a sliding cover or cloth bag can be included with the magnetic makeup case that is adapted and configured to accommodate it such that it can be placed in a bag or purse without the contents spilling. In some alternate embodiments, the inside of the magnetic makeup case can be constructed of a material and/or covered with a material that facilitates cleaning.

FIG. 10 depicts an alternate embodiment of a magnetic makeup case of kit 1000. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 10 the magnetic makeup case of kit 1000 can comprise a lid 1002, an interior shelf 1004 and a housing 1006 coupled with one or more hinges 1014. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 10, the lid 1002 can have a rectangular geometry. However, in alternate embodiments the lid 1002 can have any known, convenient and/or desired geometry and/or proportions. Moreover, in some embodiments the lid 1002 can be comprised of plastic, metal, wood and/or any other known, convenient and/or desired material and/or combination of materials. In some embodiments, the lid 1002 can be comprised of a uniform material. However, in alternate embodiments the lid 1002 can be comprised of a plurality of individual materials coupled in any known, convenient and/or desired manner and/or configuration.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 10, the interior shelf 1004 can comprise a perimeter lip 1016 defining a recessed region adapted and can be configured to have substantially similar geometric shape and measurements as the lid 1002 and/or be configured to fit within the housing 1006. Moreover, in some embodiments the interior shelf 1004 can be comprised of plastic, metal, wood and/or any other known, convenient and/or desired material and/or combination of materials. In some embodiments, the interior shelf 1004 can be comprised of a uniform material. However, in alternate embodiments the interior shelf 1004 can be comprised of a plurality of individual materials coupled in any known, convenient and/or desired manner and/or configuration. Additionally, in some embodiments, the recessed region can further comprise at least one substantially flat magnetized component 1008 coupled with the interior shelf 1004. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 10, the substantially flat magnetized component 1008 can over the all or substantially all of the surface of the recessed region. However, in alternate embodiments, the at least one substantially flat magnetized component 1008 can cover less than the all of the surface of the recessed region. In still further alternate embodiments there can be multiple substantially flat magnetized components 1008 and they can be disposed within the recessed region in any known, convenient and/or desired pattern In and/or absent any pattern. In still further alternate embodiments the substantially flat magnetized component 1008 can be absent and all or substantially all of the recessed region can be fabricated from a magnetized material and/or magnetic components can be constructed within or on the underside of the interior shelf 1004.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 10, the housing 1006 can be constructed as an open top box with a base and four sides (two side walls, a front wall and a rear wall) rising substantially orthogonally from the base 1006. In some embodiments, the housing 1006 can comprise an interior support 1010 or supports adapted and configured to support at least a portion of the interior shelf 1004. In some embodiment the interior support 1010 can be coupled or integral with the front wall and/or a side wall or the side walls. In some alternate embodiments, the interior support 1010 can be absent and a portion of the perimeter lip 1016 of the interior shelf 1004 can selectively couple with the top surface of the front wall and/or the one or both of the side walls of the housing 1006.

In some embodiments the housing 1006 can further comprise one or more apertures 1012 adjacent to the upper edge of one or more of the walls of the housing 1006 to facilitate access to the interior shelf 1004 and opening of the case 1000.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 10, the lid 1002, the interior shelf 1004 and the housing 1006 can be coupled together via one or more hinges 1014 that can be adapted and configured to allow semi-independent/independent pivotal movement of the lid 1002 relative to the interior shelf 1004 and the housing 1006. Additionally, the one or more hinges 1014 can be adapted and configured to allow semi-independent/independent pivotal movement of the interior shelf 1004 relative to the lid 1002 and the housing 1006.

In operation, a user can access the lid 1002 and/or the interior shelf 1004 via the one or more apertures 1012 and lift the lid 1002 and/or the interior shelf 1004. A user can then insert or retrieve user-selected cosmetics and/or cosmetic related items from the housing. Moreover, a user can place user-selected cosmetics contained in metal pans within the recessed area of the interior shelf 1004. A user then then open and close the lid 1002 and/or interior shelf 1004 to access the cosmetics and/or cosmetics related items contained by the housing 1006 and/or the interior tray 1004.

FIG. 11 depicts an exploded view of the embodiment of the magnetic makeup case or kit depicted in FIG. 10. The embodiment depicted in FIG. 11 comprises, the lid 1002, the interior shelf 1004 and the housing 1006 as described above. Additionally, FIG. 11 depicts a reflective component 1102 such as a mirror or other reflective surface, a substantially planar magnetic component 1104 and three sets of fastening elements 1106 1108 1110. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 11, the reflective component 1102 can be coupled with the underside of the lid 1002 such that when the lid 1002 is opened the reflective component 1102 becomes visible to the user. Additionally, in the embodiment depicted in FIG, 11, the substantially planar magnetic component 1104 can be coupled with the interior shelf 1104 within the recess to allow selective placement of makeup within metal pans to be selectively coupled with the interior shelf 1004.

FIG. 11 additionally depicts three sets of fastening elements 1106 1108 and 1110. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 11, the three sets of fastening element 1106 1108 and 1110 can be complimentary magnetic components adapted and configured to attract each other and elements 1106 can be coupled or integral with the housing 1006, elements 1108 can be coupled or integral with the interior shelf 1004 and elements 1110 can be coupled or integral with the lid 1002. That is, in some embodiments, the elements 1106 1108 1110 can mounted flush with the surfaces of the components with which they are associated and/or the elements 1106 1108 1110 can be contained with the component with which they are associated. In some embodiments, elements 1106 and 1110 can be magnetic components and elements 1108 can be magnetically attracted components that are adapted and configured such that when element 1108 is in proximity to elements 1106 or 1110, the lid 1002 or interior shelf 1004 can be magnetically attracted to the complimentary elements with sufficient force to selectively hold the case 1000 closed until a user desires to open the case. Additionally, the elements can serve to selectively and magnetically hold the lid 1002 to the interior shelf 1004. In alternate embodiments the elements 1006 and 1110 can be magnetically attracted components and elements 1008 can be magnetically charged components. In still further alternate embodiment all elements 1106 1108 1110 can be magnetically charged components adapted and configured to selectively attract complimentary elements to selectively hold the case 1000 closed and/or hold the lid 1002 against the interior shelf 1004. Additionally, although the elements 1106 1108 1110 are depicted as being comprised of three sets, in alternate embodiments the there can be fewer or more sets of elements 1106 1108 1110.

In some embodiments, elements 1106 can be flush mounted or integral with the front interior wall of the housing 1006, elements 1108 can be flush mounted or integral with the recessed area within the interior shelf 1004 such that when the interior shelf 1004 is in a closed position relative to the housing 1006 the elements 1106 and 1108 are sufficiently proximate to selectively restrict undesired movement of the interior shelf 1004. Additionally, the elements 1110 can be flush mounted or integral with underside of the lid 1002 and positioned such that when the lid 1002 is in a closed position relative to the housing 1006, the elements 1106 1108 1110 are sufficiently proximate to selectively restrict undesired movement of the lid 1002 and hold the case 1000 closed.

FIGS. 12 and 13 depict a side view of embodiments of the magnetic makeup case or kit depicted in use. As depicted in FIG. 12, the lid 1002 can be pivotally moved relative to the housing 1006 and the interior shelf 1004 through an angle α. Additionally, the maximum angle of the lid 1002 relative to the housing 1006 can be fixed by the position of the hinge 1014 and the thickness of the lid 1002 as they can serve as a physical stop 1202.

FIG. 13 depicts an embodiment of the case 1000 in which the lid 1002 is pivotally rotated relate to the housing 1006 at an angle α and the interior shelf is pivotally rotated relative to the housing 1006 at an angle θ wherein θ is less than equal to a.

FIG. 14 depicts a rear isometric view of the base of the magnetic makeup case or kit depicted in FIGS. 10-13. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 14, the housing 1006 comprises an interior front support 1402 and a rear wall recess 1404. In some embodiments, the interior front support 1402 can be piece-wise continuous such that when the interior tray 1004 is resting on the interior front support 1402 the elements 1106 and 1108 are in sufficient proximity to magnetically attach each other and hold the interior shelf in place. Moreover, the rear wall recess 1404 can be adapted and configured to contain the one or more hinges 1014 and to control the maximum angles of α and θ.

It should be noted that each embodiment and individual features of each embodiment disclosed herein can be used or otherwise combined with any of the other embodiment(s) or features of embodiments disclosed. Any element of any embodiment may be used in any embodiment.

Although exemplary embodiments of the invention have been described in detail and in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts above, it is to be understood that those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many additional modifications are possible in the exemplary embodiments without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the invention. Moreover, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Accordingly, these and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this invention construed in breadth and scope in accordance with the appended claims.

Claims

1. A case comprising:

a housing;

a lid pivotally coupled with said housing; and

an interior shelf pivotally coupled with said housing at substantially the same location as a couple location between said housing and said lid;

wherein said interior shelf comprises a magnetic component; and

wherein said lid, said housing and said interior shelf have complimentary magnetic elements adapted and configured to selectively retain said lid substantially adjacent to said interior shelf and said housing.

2. The case of claim 1 wherein said interior shelf comprises a recess adapted and configured to receive makeup contained within metal pans within said recess.

3. The case of claim 2 wherein said complimentary magnetic elements are mounted within each of said lid, said housing and said interior shelf

4. The case of claim 3 wherein said complimentary magnetic elements are positioned within each of said lid, said housing and said interior shelf such that they exert sufficient magnetic attraction to selectively hold said lid adjacent to said housing when said lid is in a closed position.

5. The case of claim 2 wherein said complimentary magnetic elements are surface flush within each of said lid, said housing and said interior shelf.

6. The case of claim 5 wherein said complimentary magnetic elements are coupled with each of said lid, said housing and said interior shelf such that they exert sufficient magnetic attraction to selectively hold said lid adjacent to said housing when said lid is in a closed position.

7. The case of claim 6 wherein said housing is adapted and configured to electively contain cosmetics application tools within said housing below said interior shelf

8. The case of claim 1 wherein said complimentary magnetic elements are mounted within each of said lid, said housing and said interior shelf

9. The case of claim 8 wherein said complimentary magnetic elements are positioned within each of said lid, said housing and said interior shelf such that they exert sufficient magnetic attraction to selectively hold said lid adjacent to said housing when said lid is in a closed position.

10. The case of claim 8 wherein said interior shelf comprises a recess adapted and configured to receive makeup contained within metal pans within said recess.

11. The case of claim 9 wherein said interior shelf comprises a recess adapted and configured to receive makeup contained within metal pans within said recess.

12. The case of claim 11 wherein said housing further comprises an aperture adapted and configured to accommodate one or more fingers of a user and facilitate opening of the case when closed.

13. A cosmetics case comprising:

a rectangular housing adapted and configured to accept cosmetics application tools;

a rectangular lid having substantially the same planar dimensions as said housing, pivotally coupled with said housing; and

a rectangular interior shelf pivotally having substantially the same planar dimensions as said housing coupled with said housing at substantially the same location as a couple location between said housing and said lid;

wherein said interior shelf comprises a recessed magnetic component adapted and configured to selectively engage and retain in place cosmetics contained within metal pans; and

wherein said lid, said housing and said interior shelf have complimentary magnetic elements adapted and configured to selectively retain said lid substantially adjacent to said interior shelf and said housing.

14. The cosmetics case of claim 13 wherein said housing further comprises an aperture adapted and configured to accommodate one or more fingers of a user and facilitate opening of the case when closed.

15. The cosmetics case of claim 14 wherein said complimentary magnetic elements are embedded within said lid, said interior shelf and said housing.