CA2326064A1 - Lotion applicator device and container - Google Patents
Lotion applicator device and container Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2326064A1 CA2326064A1 CA 2326064 CA2326064A CA2326064A1 CA 2326064 A1 CA2326064 A1 CA 2326064A1 CA 2326064 CA2326064 CA 2326064 CA 2326064 A CA2326064 A CA 2326064A CA 2326064 A1 CA2326064 A1 CA 2326064A1
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- lotion
- absorbent material
- container
- applicator device
- applicator
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
- A45D34/00—Containers or accessories specially adapted for handling liquid toiletry or cosmetic substances, e.g. perfumes
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
- A45D34/00—Containers or accessories specially adapted for handling liquid toiletry or cosmetic substances, e.g. perfumes
- A45D34/04—Appliances specially adapted for applying liquid, e.g. using roller or ball
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M35/00—Devices for applying media, e.g. remedies, on the human body
- A61M35/003—Portable hand-held applicators having means for dispensing or spreading integral media
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
- A45D2200/00—Details not otherwise provided for in A45D
- A45D2200/10—Details of applicators
- A45D2200/1009—Applicators comprising a pad, tissue, sponge, or the like
- A45D2200/1018—Applicators comprising a pad, tissue, sponge, or the like comprising a pad, i.e. a cushion-like mass of soft material, with or without gripping means
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
- A45D2200/00—Details not otherwise provided for in A45D
- A45D2200/10—Details of applicators
- A45D2200/1009—Applicators comprising a pad, tissue, sponge, or the like
- A45D2200/1036—Applicators comprising a pad, tissue, sponge, or the like containing a cosmetic substance, e.g. impregnated with liquid or containing a soluble solid substance
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F3/00—Travelling or camp articles; Sacks or packs carried on the body
- A45F2003/002—Sacks or packs carried on the body by means of a single strap passing around the neck
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- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Anesthesiology (AREA)
- Biomedical Technology (AREA)
- Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
- Hematology (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
- Media Introduction/Drainage Providing Device (AREA)
Abstract
The present invention discloses a lotion applicator device comprising a single, continuous, tear-resistant piece of absorbent material for applying lotion to a user's body, particularly areas that are difficult for the user to reach. The lotion applicator device is washable, reusable and optionally disposable after a number of uses.
The lotion applicator device may be used in combination with an air-tight, water-impermeable container for preventing spoilage of lotion absorbed in the lotion applicator device. The container also permits the lotion applicator device to be portable.
The lotion applicator device may be used in combination with an air-tight, water-impermeable container for preventing spoilage of lotion absorbed in the lotion applicator device. The container also permits the lotion applicator device to be portable.
Description
The invention relates to lotion applicator devices for carrying lotion and applying lotion to the body of a user. More specifically, the present invention relates to lotion applicator devices for carrying lotion and applying lotion to hard to reach places of a user's body.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The number of people who pursue outdoor leisure activities is rising. Further, it has recently been reported that ultraviolet radiation from the sun may increase the chances of developing skin cancer, particularly to those individuals with sensitive, or pale skin. One method of reducing sun exposure is to use sunblocks or sunscreens.
Unfortunately, many individuals who pursue outdoor leisure activities alone are unable or fmd it to be difficult to apply sunblock or suntan lotion to hard to reach places of their body. Thus, in many instances these hard to reach places are left unprotected while pursuing outdoor activities.
There exists in the art a number of patents relating to lotion applicator devices.
For example, U.S. Patent No. 5,983,436 discloses an applicator device for applying lotion or the like to one's body, and particularly one's back. The lotion applicator generally comprises a non-extendable fabric material having hand grips or handles releaseably secured to opposite ends of the strip through elastic connector members.
Unfortunately the incorporation of elastic connector members and releasable handles into the lotion applicator makes the device more difficult and potentially more costly to manufacture. Further, while the lotion applicator may be used to apply lotion to a body of a user, the lotion applicator cannot be used to carry and apply lotion on its own and thus a user must carry both the applicator device and lotion separately.
U.S. Patent No. 5,736,213 discloses a lotion applicator comprising a non-absorbent exterior surface and two handles comprising an elongated strip of elastic material both ends of which are attached to form open loop left and right handles. The use of a non-absorbent surface requires that a user carry both the applicator and lotion separately, that is lotion cannot be absorbed into the applicator and applied at a later time.
Further, the use of elastic material which is attached to form open loop left and right handles makes the lotion applicator more difficult to manufacture than applicator devices which lack such handles.
U. S. Patent No. 5,251,990 discloses an applicator provided for use in placing skin products on a person's body, particularly the recessed areas of the back. The applicator comprises an elongated rectangular strip of an impermeable, elastic material of a first thickness laminated to a second thinner layer. The use of an impermeable, elastic material requires that a user carry both the applicator and lotion separately, that is lotion cannot be absorbed into the applicator and applied at a later time. Further, the use of elastic material which is laminated to a second layer makes the lotion applicator more intricate and possibly more difficult and expensive to manufacture.
U.S. Patent No. 5,013,171 discloses a cylindrical housing retractably containing an elongate, flexible, longitudinal web including a rigid handle mounted at a free terminal end of the web. Lotion is applied to the associated web by an absorbent sponge like roller. The body lotion applicator apparatus is complex and thus would be difficult and costly to manufacture. Further, due its complexity, the device is not be readily amenable to washing and its disposal after a single use is wasteful and uneconomical.
There is a need in the art for lotion applicators which can be used by an individual to apply lotion to his or her body and particularly to hard to reach places of the body.
Further, there is a need in the art for lotion applicators which contain absorbed lotion such that a user need not carry both a lotion applicator device and lotion separately. Also there is a need in the art for lotion applicators which are easy to manufacture and cost-effective to produce and that are tear-resistant enough to be used for multiple applications of lotion, and which may be optionally washed between applications.
Further still, there is a need in the art for lotion applicators which are disposable after a single use or after multiple uses.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The number of people who pursue outdoor leisure activities is rising. Further, it has recently been reported that ultraviolet radiation from the sun may increase the chances of developing skin cancer, particularly to those individuals with sensitive, or pale skin. One method of reducing sun exposure is to use sunblocks or sunscreens.
Unfortunately, many individuals who pursue outdoor leisure activities alone are unable or fmd it to be difficult to apply sunblock or suntan lotion to hard to reach places of their body. Thus, in many instances these hard to reach places are left unprotected while pursuing outdoor activities.
There exists in the art a number of patents relating to lotion applicator devices.
For example, U.S. Patent No. 5,983,436 discloses an applicator device for applying lotion or the like to one's body, and particularly one's back. The lotion applicator generally comprises a non-extendable fabric material having hand grips or handles releaseably secured to opposite ends of the strip through elastic connector members.
Unfortunately the incorporation of elastic connector members and releasable handles into the lotion applicator makes the device more difficult and potentially more costly to manufacture. Further, while the lotion applicator may be used to apply lotion to a body of a user, the lotion applicator cannot be used to carry and apply lotion on its own and thus a user must carry both the applicator device and lotion separately.
U.S. Patent No. 5,736,213 discloses a lotion applicator comprising a non-absorbent exterior surface and two handles comprising an elongated strip of elastic material both ends of which are attached to form open loop left and right handles. The use of a non-absorbent surface requires that a user carry both the applicator and lotion separately, that is lotion cannot be absorbed into the applicator and applied at a later time.
Further, the use of elastic material which is attached to form open loop left and right handles makes the lotion applicator more difficult to manufacture than applicator devices which lack such handles.
U. S. Patent No. 5,251,990 discloses an applicator provided for use in placing skin products on a person's body, particularly the recessed areas of the back. The applicator comprises an elongated rectangular strip of an impermeable, elastic material of a first thickness laminated to a second thinner layer. The use of an impermeable, elastic material requires that a user carry both the applicator and lotion separately, that is lotion cannot be absorbed into the applicator and applied at a later time. Further, the use of elastic material which is laminated to a second layer makes the lotion applicator more intricate and possibly more difficult and expensive to manufacture.
U.S. Patent No. 5,013,171 discloses a cylindrical housing retractably containing an elongate, flexible, longitudinal web including a rigid handle mounted at a free terminal end of the web. Lotion is applied to the associated web by an absorbent sponge like roller. The body lotion applicator apparatus is complex and thus would be difficult and costly to manufacture. Further, due its complexity, the device is not be readily amenable to washing and its disposal after a single use is wasteful and uneconomical.
There is a need in the art for lotion applicators which can be used by an individual to apply lotion to his or her body and particularly to hard to reach places of the body.
Further, there is a need in the art for lotion applicators which contain absorbed lotion such that a user need not carry both a lotion applicator device and lotion separately. Also there is a need in the art for lotion applicators which are easy to manufacture and cost-effective to produce and that are tear-resistant enough to be used for multiple applications of lotion, and which may be optionally washed between applications.
Further still, there is a need in the art for lotion applicators which are disposable after a single use or after multiple uses.
It is an object of the present invention to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art.
The above object is met by a combination of the features of the main claims.
The sub claims disclose further advantageous embodiments of the invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to lotion applicator devices for carrying lotion and applying lotion to the body of a user. More specifically, the present invention relates to lotion applicator devices for carrying lotion and applying lotion to hard to reach places of a user's body.
According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a lotion applicator device comprising a single, continuous, tear-resistant piece of absorbent material for applying lotion to a user's body, particularly areas that are difficult for the user to reach. Further, the absorbent material of the lotion applicator may be impregnated with lotion.
According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a lotion applicator device as defined above wherein the absorbent material comprises fabric or non-fabric material such as cotton, wool, felt, viscose, polypropylene fibres, cloth, polyester, or a combination thereof. Further, the absorbent material may comprise synthetic fibers, natural fibers or both.
According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a lotion applicator device as defined above wherein the lotion comprises suntan lotion, sunblock lotion, moisturizing lotion, insect repellent lotion, or lotion comprising medicinal ingredients .
The above object is met by a combination of the features of the main claims.
The sub claims disclose further advantageous embodiments of the invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to lotion applicator devices for carrying lotion and applying lotion to the body of a user. More specifically, the present invention relates to lotion applicator devices for carrying lotion and applying lotion to hard to reach places of a user's body.
According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a lotion applicator device comprising a single, continuous, tear-resistant piece of absorbent material for applying lotion to a user's body, particularly areas that are difficult for the user to reach. Further, the absorbent material of the lotion applicator may be impregnated with lotion.
According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a lotion applicator device as defined above wherein the absorbent material comprises fabric or non-fabric material such as cotton, wool, felt, viscose, polypropylene fibres, cloth, polyester, or a combination thereof. Further, the absorbent material may comprise synthetic fibers, natural fibers or both.
According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a lotion applicator device as defined above wherein the lotion comprises suntan lotion, sunblock lotion, moisturizing lotion, insect repellent lotion, or lotion comprising medicinal ingredients .
Also according to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a lotion applicator device as defined above comprising a plurality of apertures which define handles in the absorbent material, the handles being integrally formed and comprising the same continuous piece of absorbent material as the applicator device.
According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit comprising the lotion applicator device as defined above and a container which is sized to hold the lotion applicator device. The container may have an air-tight and water-resistant closure and may further comprise a fastening system for securing the container to a person or object. The container may also comprise a reservoir for holding lotion. Further, the container may contain an impregnated piece of absorbent material and an additional supply of lotion.
This summary does not necessarily describe all necessary features of the invention but that the invention may also reside in a sub-combination of the described features.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and other features of the invention will become more apparent from the following description in which reference is made to the appended drawings wherein:
FIGURE 1 shows an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention comprising a lotion applicator device.
FIGURE 2 shows an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention comprising a lotion applicator device with integral formed handles therein.
FIGURE 3 shows an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention comprising a container for the lotion applicator device.
According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit comprising the lotion applicator device as defined above and a container which is sized to hold the lotion applicator device. The container may have an air-tight and water-resistant closure and may further comprise a fastening system for securing the container to a person or object. The container may also comprise a reservoir for holding lotion. Further, the container may contain an impregnated piece of absorbent material and an additional supply of lotion.
This summary does not necessarily describe all necessary features of the invention but that the invention may also reside in a sub-combination of the described features.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and other features of the invention will become more apparent from the following description in which reference is made to the appended drawings wherein:
FIGURE 1 shows an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention comprising a lotion applicator device.
FIGURE 2 shows an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention comprising a lotion applicator device with integral formed handles therein.
FIGURE 3 shows an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention comprising a container for the lotion applicator device.
FIGURE 4 shows an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention comprising a container for the lotion applicator device. The container comprises a reservoir to hold lotion.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIIVVIENT
The invention relates to lotion applicator devices for carrying lotion and applying lotion to the body of a user. More specifically, the present invention relates to lotion applicator devices for carrying lotion and applying lotion to hard to reach places of a user's body.
According to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention there is provided a lotion applicator device comprising an absorbent material. The absorbent material may comprise any material which is capable of absorbing lotion. By the term "lotion" it is meant a liquid, cream, gel, emulsion, microemulsion or combination thereof.
Specific examples of lotions include, but are not limited to, moisturizing lotions, suntan lotions, insect repellent lotions, emulsions, microemulsions, as well as lotions, creams and oils comprising medicinal ingredients. Further, as used herein the term lotion may be construed to include water-based solutions, oil-based solutions or combinations thereof.
The absorbent material may comprise, but is not limited to fabric or non-fabric material such as cotton, wool, felt, viscose, polypropylene fibres, cloth, polyester, or a combination thereof. Further, the absorbent material may comprise synthetic fibers, natural fibers or both. Preferably, the absorbent material comprises a combination of polypropylene and viscose. More preferably, the absorbent material comprises viscose.
Preferably, the absorbent material is tear-resistant, that is , the absorbent material is not easily torn when subj ected to forces, particularly in the longitudinal direction of the material. It is also preferable that the absorbent material be compact and have a high loading capacity for lotion.
In an aspect of the preferred embodiment, the lotion applicator device comprises a single, continuous, tear-resistant piece of absorbent material which is cut, die-punched _7_ or the like into a desired shape and used without additional material processing steps such as, but not limited to stitching, hemming, lamination, bonding or other treatment. In a further aspect of a preferred embodiment, the lotion applicator device comprises handles which are integrally formed with the lotion applicator device and comprise the same single, continuous piece of material as the lotion applicator device. Handles may be formed in the lotion applicator device by cutting or die-punching the absorbent material of the lotion applicator device to create an aperture in the material, and may be formed when the absorbent material is initially cut into desired shape. Preferably, the handles are incorporated into the lotion applicator device without requiring the use of additional materials such as elastic cords or specialized handle grips, and further processing such as stitching, hemming, lamination, bonding or other processing step or treatment. Thus, in this aspect of the embodiment, the lotion applicator device may be more easy to manufacture and may be more cost-effective to produce than similar devices known in the art.
Preferably, the absorbent material of the applicator device is tear-resistant to allow the absorbent material to be used repeatedly for application of lotion to the body of a user. More preferably, the absorbent material is strong and tear-resistant to allow the absorbent material to be washed between repeated application of lotion to the body of a user, without significant deterioration of the structural strength and absorbent capacity of the absorbent material of the lotion applicator device. For example, lotion may be applied to the absorbent material, the absorbent material comprising the absorbed lotion may be applied to a user and subsequently, the absorbent material may be washed to remove old or excess lotion. If desired, the entire cycle may be repeated between about 1 and about 30 times, preferably between about 1 and about 14 times and more preferably between about 1 and about 7 times. However, as one skilled in the art will understand, the capacity of the absorbent material for repeated use may depend on the strength of the specific absorbent material used.
Referring now to Figure 1, there is shown an embodiment of the lotion applicator device (generally indicated as 5) of the present invention. Shown in Figure 1 is an _g_ absorbent fabric material (10) of a generally rectangular elongated shape. For example, the absorbent material may be 100% viscose and have dimensions of about 15 inches by about 3 '/2 inches. Other shapes and sizes are also contemplated by the present invention but it is preferred that the dimension be about 12 inches to about 24 inches by about 3 inches to about 6 inches which should be large enough for its intended purpose and yet compact enough to fit in small containers or spaces, such as, but not limited to, a purse or pocket. Referring now to Figure 2, there is shown an embodiment of the present invention wherein the absorbent material ( 10) comprises apertures (20) at each end of the material. These apertures are preferably about 2 inches to 3 inches in diameter if they are circular. Other convenient aperture shapes may also be used. The apertures (20) permit the formation of handles (30) within the absorbent material, without requiring additional materials such as elastic cords or plastic handles to be attached or further processing of the absorbent material. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the fingers or hands of a user may be reversibly inserted through the apertures (20) of the absorbent material to provide leverage and exert force such that lotion absorbed into the absorbent material of the lotion applicator device frictionally engages the skin of a user, particularly at hard to reach places such as the back, and is deposited thereon.
Preferably, the absorbent material exhibits a high loading capacity for lotion, for example, in the range of about 0.001 fluid ounces of lotion per square inch of absorbent material to about 0.5 fluid ounces of lotion per square inch of absorbent material. More preferably, the absorbent material exhibits a loading capacity of about 0.01 to about 0.2 fluid ounces of lotion per square inch of absorbent material.
A lotion applicator device which lacks handles as defined above may still be used to apply lotion. In such an embodiment, opposite ends of the lotion applicator device may be grasped to provide leverage and exert force such that lotion absorbed into the absorbent material of the lotion applicator device frictionally engages the skin of a user, particularly at places which are hard to reach such as the back, and the lotion is deposited thereon.
It is contemplated by the present invention that the absorbent material of the lotion applicator device may comprise absorbed lotion so as to be ready for use.
Alternatively, it is contemplated by the present invention that the absorbent material of the lotion applicator device may be dry or substantially dry and that lotion may be applied by a user. The user can remove the dry absorbent material from the container, impregnate the material and then replace it in the container which is then closed, so as to be ready for use at a later time.
Lotion may be applied to the absorbent material of the lotion applicator device by any method known in the art, for example but not wishing to be limited to spreading, spraying, dipping, drenching or combination thereof.
According to a further embodiment of the present invention there is provided a kit comprising a lotion applicator device as defined above and a container for carrying the lotion applicator device. Preferably the container is air-tight and water-resistant.
By the term "air-tight" it is meant the container acts as a barrier to reduce interaction of air or other gasses present on the exterior of the container with the lotion applicator contained within the container, when the container is sealed. More preferably, the container prevents the ingress of air and other gasses into the container when the container is sealed.
By the term "water-resistant" it is meant a container which acts as a barrier to reduce interaction of water and water-vapor on the exterior of the container with the lotion applicator contained within the container and the container is sealed.
More preferably, the container prevents the ingress of water and water vapor into the container when the container is sealed.
The container may be manufactured of any material, or group of materials which permits the container to be air-tight and water-resistant, for example, but not wishing to be limiting plastics, metals, rubber compounds, or combinations thereof. The container is manufactured with dimensions which allow the lotion applicator device to be contained within it and is a convenient size for the purse, pocket or the like. For example, the container may have a length of about 4 inches to about 5 inches and a diameter of about 1 inch to about 2 inches. However, the lotion applicator device may be folded or rolled-up into a shape having suitable dimensions for insertion into and containment within the container. In a like manner, the lotion applicator device comprising absorbed lotion may be rolled-up or folded into a shape having suitable dimensions for insertion into and containment within the container.
The lotion applicator container may be manufactured in any shape and dimensions required such as, but not limited to cylinders, spheres, boxes or the like. In addition the container may be equipped with a fastening system which allows the lotion applicator container and lotion applicator to be secured to an obj ect or person. Examples of fastening systems include but are not limited to strings, wires, straps, ropes, velcro, elastics, belts, buckles, pins, magnetic attachment means or any other system which allows the lotion applicator to be attached to a person or object.
Referring now to Figure 3 there is shown an embodiment of the present invention comprising a container which is generally referred to as 50. The container (50) comprises a first container portion (60) and a second container portion (70). In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the first container portion (60) is equipped with screw threads (80) and a sealing washer (90). The screw threads of the first container portion (60) are adapted to threadedly engage a screw thread receiving system located within the second container portion (70) until the surface of the second container portion frictionally engages the sealing washer (90). The container also comprises a fastening system (101) which permits the container and an enclosed lotion applicator device to be fastened or attached to a user or object.
Referring now to Figure 4, there is shown an alternate embodiment of the present invention wherein the container (generally referred to as 50) further comprises a reservoir (100) for retaining lotion. Shown in Figure 4 is a container (50) having a first container portion (60), a second container portion (70), and a third container portion (85). In the embodiment shown, the first container portion (60) and the second container portion (70) are connected by a hinge element (110) which permits a lotion applicator device (5) to be retained within the container (50). The third container portion (85) comprises a reservoir (100) for retaining lotion or the like. The third container portion (85) may be releasably attached to the first container portion (60) in such a manner that lotion may be carried within the container (50) and separate from the lotion applicator device (5). The third container portion (85) may be attached to the first container portion (60) by any method known in the art, for example, but not wishing to be limiting, the third container portion may be equipped with a screw thread receiving system (75), which threadedly engages screw threads (80) located within the first container portion (60) of the container (50). However, any reservoir which permits lotion to be carried within the container, yet separate from the lotion applicator device, is contemplated by the present invention.
The container (50) as shown in Figure 4 also comprises a fastening system ( 1 O 1 ) which permits the container (50) and an enclosed lotion applicator device (S) to be fastened or attached to a user or object. The fastening system (101) is shown as comprising a cord (102) passing through holes in the second container portion (70) but which does not penetrate the interior of the second container portion. The cord ( 102) is looped and tied at its outer end (103) and may include a slide (104).
The container permits the lotion applicator device to be portable and less messy during handling. Moreover, an air-tight and water-resistant container may prevent premature spoilage of lotion by inhibiting interaction of the lotion absorbed in lotion applicator with air and water vapor in the environment. In assessing this aspect of the present invention it is noted that lotion impregnated within the lotion applicator device and sealed within a container as contemplated by the present invention is unspoiled for a duration which is about twice as long as the duration observed when the lotion is exposed to air.
Thus, the present invention also contemplates a kit of the lotion applicator device and lotion applicator container. The kit may comprise a single applicator device and a single lotion container, a plurality of lotion applicator devices and a single lotion container or a plurality of both lotion applicator devices and containers.
Further, in all of the embodiments discussed above, the lotion applicator device may comprise absorbed lotion.
The lotion applicator and container of the present invention are easy to manufacture and cost effective to produce, allow a user to apply lotion to hard to reach places of his or her body, may be used repeatedly and optionally washed between repeated applications of lotion. Alternatively, the lotion applicator of the present invention may be disposable after a single use or multiple uses. Further, a lotion user need not carry both a lotion applicator device and lotion separately as the present invention advantageously allows for the combination of lotion into a portable lotion applicator device and its application to a user's body and specifically hard to reach places of a user's body.
The above description is not intended to limit the claimed invention in any manner, Furthermore, the discussed combination of features might not be absolutely necessary for the inventive solution.
All references are herein incorporated by reference.
The present invention will be further illustrated in the following examples.
However, it is to be understood that these examples are for illustrative purposes only, and should not be used to limit the scope of the present invention in any manner.
The invention relates to lotion applicator devices for carrying lotion and applying lotion to the body of a user. More specifically, the present invention relates to lotion applicator devices for carrying lotion and applying lotion to hard to reach places of a user's body.
According to an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention there is provided a lotion applicator device comprising an absorbent material. The absorbent material may comprise any material which is capable of absorbing lotion. By the term "lotion" it is meant a liquid, cream, gel, emulsion, microemulsion or combination thereof.
Specific examples of lotions include, but are not limited to, moisturizing lotions, suntan lotions, insect repellent lotions, emulsions, microemulsions, as well as lotions, creams and oils comprising medicinal ingredients. Further, as used herein the term lotion may be construed to include water-based solutions, oil-based solutions or combinations thereof.
The absorbent material may comprise, but is not limited to fabric or non-fabric material such as cotton, wool, felt, viscose, polypropylene fibres, cloth, polyester, or a combination thereof. Further, the absorbent material may comprise synthetic fibers, natural fibers or both. Preferably, the absorbent material comprises a combination of polypropylene and viscose. More preferably, the absorbent material comprises viscose.
Preferably, the absorbent material is tear-resistant, that is , the absorbent material is not easily torn when subj ected to forces, particularly in the longitudinal direction of the material. It is also preferable that the absorbent material be compact and have a high loading capacity for lotion.
In an aspect of the preferred embodiment, the lotion applicator device comprises a single, continuous, tear-resistant piece of absorbent material which is cut, die-punched _7_ or the like into a desired shape and used without additional material processing steps such as, but not limited to stitching, hemming, lamination, bonding or other treatment. In a further aspect of a preferred embodiment, the lotion applicator device comprises handles which are integrally formed with the lotion applicator device and comprise the same single, continuous piece of material as the lotion applicator device. Handles may be formed in the lotion applicator device by cutting or die-punching the absorbent material of the lotion applicator device to create an aperture in the material, and may be formed when the absorbent material is initially cut into desired shape. Preferably, the handles are incorporated into the lotion applicator device without requiring the use of additional materials such as elastic cords or specialized handle grips, and further processing such as stitching, hemming, lamination, bonding or other processing step or treatment. Thus, in this aspect of the embodiment, the lotion applicator device may be more easy to manufacture and may be more cost-effective to produce than similar devices known in the art.
Preferably, the absorbent material of the applicator device is tear-resistant to allow the absorbent material to be used repeatedly for application of lotion to the body of a user. More preferably, the absorbent material is strong and tear-resistant to allow the absorbent material to be washed between repeated application of lotion to the body of a user, without significant deterioration of the structural strength and absorbent capacity of the absorbent material of the lotion applicator device. For example, lotion may be applied to the absorbent material, the absorbent material comprising the absorbed lotion may be applied to a user and subsequently, the absorbent material may be washed to remove old or excess lotion. If desired, the entire cycle may be repeated between about 1 and about 30 times, preferably between about 1 and about 14 times and more preferably between about 1 and about 7 times. However, as one skilled in the art will understand, the capacity of the absorbent material for repeated use may depend on the strength of the specific absorbent material used.
Referring now to Figure 1, there is shown an embodiment of the lotion applicator device (generally indicated as 5) of the present invention. Shown in Figure 1 is an _g_ absorbent fabric material (10) of a generally rectangular elongated shape. For example, the absorbent material may be 100% viscose and have dimensions of about 15 inches by about 3 '/2 inches. Other shapes and sizes are also contemplated by the present invention but it is preferred that the dimension be about 12 inches to about 24 inches by about 3 inches to about 6 inches which should be large enough for its intended purpose and yet compact enough to fit in small containers or spaces, such as, but not limited to, a purse or pocket. Referring now to Figure 2, there is shown an embodiment of the present invention wherein the absorbent material ( 10) comprises apertures (20) at each end of the material. These apertures are preferably about 2 inches to 3 inches in diameter if they are circular. Other convenient aperture shapes may also be used. The apertures (20) permit the formation of handles (30) within the absorbent material, without requiring additional materials such as elastic cords or plastic handles to be attached or further processing of the absorbent material. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the fingers or hands of a user may be reversibly inserted through the apertures (20) of the absorbent material to provide leverage and exert force such that lotion absorbed into the absorbent material of the lotion applicator device frictionally engages the skin of a user, particularly at hard to reach places such as the back, and is deposited thereon.
Preferably, the absorbent material exhibits a high loading capacity for lotion, for example, in the range of about 0.001 fluid ounces of lotion per square inch of absorbent material to about 0.5 fluid ounces of lotion per square inch of absorbent material. More preferably, the absorbent material exhibits a loading capacity of about 0.01 to about 0.2 fluid ounces of lotion per square inch of absorbent material.
A lotion applicator device which lacks handles as defined above may still be used to apply lotion. In such an embodiment, opposite ends of the lotion applicator device may be grasped to provide leverage and exert force such that lotion absorbed into the absorbent material of the lotion applicator device frictionally engages the skin of a user, particularly at places which are hard to reach such as the back, and the lotion is deposited thereon.
It is contemplated by the present invention that the absorbent material of the lotion applicator device may comprise absorbed lotion so as to be ready for use.
Alternatively, it is contemplated by the present invention that the absorbent material of the lotion applicator device may be dry or substantially dry and that lotion may be applied by a user. The user can remove the dry absorbent material from the container, impregnate the material and then replace it in the container which is then closed, so as to be ready for use at a later time.
Lotion may be applied to the absorbent material of the lotion applicator device by any method known in the art, for example but not wishing to be limited to spreading, spraying, dipping, drenching or combination thereof.
According to a further embodiment of the present invention there is provided a kit comprising a lotion applicator device as defined above and a container for carrying the lotion applicator device. Preferably the container is air-tight and water-resistant.
By the term "air-tight" it is meant the container acts as a barrier to reduce interaction of air or other gasses present on the exterior of the container with the lotion applicator contained within the container, when the container is sealed. More preferably, the container prevents the ingress of air and other gasses into the container when the container is sealed.
By the term "water-resistant" it is meant a container which acts as a barrier to reduce interaction of water and water-vapor on the exterior of the container with the lotion applicator contained within the container and the container is sealed.
More preferably, the container prevents the ingress of water and water vapor into the container when the container is sealed.
The container may be manufactured of any material, or group of materials which permits the container to be air-tight and water-resistant, for example, but not wishing to be limiting plastics, metals, rubber compounds, or combinations thereof. The container is manufactured with dimensions which allow the lotion applicator device to be contained within it and is a convenient size for the purse, pocket or the like. For example, the container may have a length of about 4 inches to about 5 inches and a diameter of about 1 inch to about 2 inches. However, the lotion applicator device may be folded or rolled-up into a shape having suitable dimensions for insertion into and containment within the container. In a like manner, the lotion applicator device comprising absorbed lotion may be rolled-up or folded into a shape having suitable dimensions for insertion into and containment within the container.
The lotion applicator container may be manufactured in any shape and dimensions required such as, but not limited to cylinders, spheres, boxes or the like. In addition the container may be equipped with a fastening system which allows the lotion applicator container and lotion applicator to be secured to an obj ect or person. Examples of fastening systems include but are not limited to strings, wires, straps, ropes, velcro, elastics, belts, buckles, pins, magnetic attachment means or any other system which allows the lotion applicator to be attached to a person or object.
Referring now to Figure 3 there is shown an embodiment of the present invention comprising a container which is generally referred to as 50. The container (50) comprises a first container portion (60) and a second container portion (70). In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the first container portion (60) is equipped with screw threads (80) and a sealing washer (90). The screw threads of the first container portion (60) are adapted to threadedly engage a screw thread receiving system located within the second container portion (70) until the surface of the second container portion frictionally engages the sealing washer (90). The container also comprises a fastening system (101) which permits the container and an enclosed lotion applicator device to be fastened or attached to a user or object.
Referring now to Figure 4, there is shown an alternate embodiment of the present invention wherein the container (generally referred to as 50) further comprises a reservoir (100) for retaining lotion. Shown in Figure 4 is a container (50) having a first container portion (60), a second container portion (70), and a third container portion (85). In the embodiment shown, the first container portion (60) and the second container portion (70) are connected by a hinge element (110) which permits a lotion applicator device (5) to be retained within the container (50). The third container portion (85) comprises a reservoir (100) for retaining lotion or the like. The third container portion (85) may be releasably attached to the first container portion (60) in such a manner that lotion may be carried within the container (50) and separate from the lotion applicator device (5). The third container portion (85) may be attached to the first container portion (60) by any method known in the art, for example, but not wishing to be limiting, the third container portion may be equipped with a screw thread receiving system (75), which threadedly engages screw threads (80) located within the first container portion (60) of the container (50). However, any reservoir which permits lotion to be carried within the container, yet separate from the lotion applicator device, is contemplated by the present invention.
The container (50) as shown in Figure 4 also comprises a fastening system ( 1 O 1 ) which permits the container (50) and an enclosed lotion applicator device (S) to be fastened or attached to a user or object. The fastening system (101) is shown as comprising a cord (102) passing through holes in the second container portion (70) but which does not penetrate the interior of the second container portion. The cord ( 102) is looped and tied at its outer end (103) and may include a slide (104).
The container permits the lotion applicator device to be portable and less messy during handling. Moreover, an air-tight and water-resistant container may prevent premature spoilage of lotion by inhibiting interaction of the lotion absorbed in lotion applicator with air and water vapor in the environment. In assessing this aspect of the present invention it is noted that lotion impregnated within the lotion applicator device and sealed within a container as contemplated by the present invention is unspoiled for a duration which is about twice as long as the duration observed when the lotion is exposed to air.
Thus, the present invention also contemplates a kit of the lotion applicator device and lotion applicator container. The kit may comprise a single applicator device and a single lotion container, a plurality of lotion applicator devices and a single lotion container or a plurality of both lotion applicator devices and containers.
Further, in all of the embodiments discussed above, the lotion applicator device may comprise absorbed lotion.
The lotion applicator and container of the present invention are easy to manufacture and cost effective to produce, allow a user to apply lotion to hard to reach places of his or her body, may be used repeatedly and optionally washed between repeated applications of lotion. Alternatively, the lotion applicator of the present invention may be disposable after a single use or multiple uses. Further, a lotion user need not carry both a lotion applicator device and lotion separately as the present invention advantageously allows for the combination of lotion into a portable lotion applicator device and its application to a user's body and specifically hard to reach places of a user's body.
The above description is not intended to limit the claimed invention in any manner, Furthermore, the discussed combination of features might not be absolutely necessary for the inventive solution.
All references are herein incorporated by reference.
The present invention will be further illustrated in the following examples.
However, it is to be understood that these examples are for illustrative purposes only, and should not be used to limit the scope of the present invention in any manner.
Claims (19)
1. A lotion applicator device comprising a single, elongated, continuous, tear-resistant piece of absorbent material, said material being shaped and dimensioned so that it may be grasped by a user for applying lotion to a user's body, particularly areas that are difficult for the user to reach.
2. The lotion applicator device of claim 1, wherein the absorbent material is impregnated with lotion.
3. The lotion applicator of claim 1, wherein said absorbent material comprises cotton, wool, felt, viscose, polypropylene fibers, polyester or a combination thereof.
4. The lotion applicator of claim 3 wherein said absorbent material comprises a combination of viscose and polypropylene.
5. The lotion applicator of claim 3 wherein said absorbent material comprises viscose.
6. The applicator device of claim 2, wherein said lotion comprises suntan lotion, sunblock lotion, moisturizing lotion, insect repellent lotion, or lotion comprising medicinal ingredients.
7. The lotion applicator device of claim 1 wherein said absorbent material is elongated and is provided with apertures adjacent each end which define handles in said absorbent material, said handles being integrally formed and comprising the same continuous piece of absorbent material as said applicator device.
8. The lotion applicator of claim 7, wherein said apertures are formed by cutting or die-punching said absorbent material.
9. The lotion applicator of claim 7, wherein said lotion applicator device is washable and reusable.
10. The lotion applicator of claim 7, wherein said lotion applicator device is disposable after between about 1 to about 10 uses.
11. A kit comprising the lotion applicator of claim 1 and a container sized to hold the lotion applicator device.
12. The kit of claim 11, wherein said container is air-tight and water-resistant.
13. The kit of claim 12, wherein said container further comprises a reservoir for holding lotion.
14. The kit of claim 13, wherein said container further comprises a fastening system for securing the container to a person or object.
15. The kit of claim 12, wherein said container further comprises a fastening system for securing the container to a person or object.
16. The kit of claim 11, wherein said container further comprises a reservoir for holding lotion.
17. A lotion applicator comprising, (a) a single, elongated, continuous piece of tear-resistant absorbent material having handles integrally formed at each end and being shaped and -15-~
dimensioned so that the handles may be grasped by a user for functionally engaging parts of the body that are hard to reach;
(b) a lotion impregnated in the absorbent material; and (c) a container having a removable second container portion at one end for storing the absorbent material, said container being air tight and water resistant when the cap is in place to prevent the lotion from spoiling.
dimensioned so that the handles may be grasped by a user for functionally engaging parts of the body that are hard to reach;
(b) a lotion impregnated in the absorbent material; and (c) a container having a removable second container portion at one end for storing the absorbent material, said container being air tight and water resistant when the cap is in place to prevent the lotion from spoiling.
18. A lotion applicator as defined in claim 17, said container further comprising a receptacle for attaching to said container and providing a reservoir for carrying an additional supply of lotion.
19. A lotion applicator comprising, (a) a single, elongated, continuous piece of tear-resistant absorbent material having integrally formed, nonreinforced handles at each end and being shaped and dimensioned so that the handles may be grasped by a user for functionally engaging parts of the body that are hard to reach;
(b) a lotion impregnated in the absorbent material; and wherein said absorbent material comprises viscose and exhibits a lotion loading capacity between about 0.001 fluid ounces per square inch of absorbent material to about 0.5 fluid ounces of lotion per square inch of absorbent material.
(b) a lotion impregnated in the absorbent material; and wherein said absorbent material comprises viscose and exhibits a lotion loading capacity between about 0.001 fluid ounces per square inch of absorbent material to about 0.5 fluid ounces of lotion per square inch of absorbent material.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2326064 CA2326064A1 (en) | 2000-11-15 | 2000-11-15 | Lotion applicator device and container |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2326064 CA2326064A1 (en) | 2000-11-15 | 2000-11-15 | Lotion applicator device and container |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2326064A1 true CA2326064A1 (en) | 2002-05-15 |
Family
ID=4167680
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2326064 Abandoned CA2326064A1 (en) | 2000-11-15 | 2000-11-15 | Lotion applicator device and container |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2326064A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB2480542A (en) * | 2010-05-20 | 2011-11-23 | Adele Cook | A wipe |
| ITFI20120216A1 (en) * | 2012-10-19 | 2014-04-20 | Giuseppe Mallozzi | "A BOWL FOR THE HOLDING OF HAIR DYES WITH A CART FIXING SYSTEM" |
-
2000
- 2000-11-15 CA CA 2326064 patent/CA2326064A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB2480542A (en) * | 2010-05-20 | 2011-11-23 | Adele Cook | A wipe |
| ITFI20120216A1 (en) * | 2012-10-19 | 2014-04-20 | Giuseppe Mallozzi | "A BOWL FOR THE HOLDING OF HAIR DYES WITH A CART FIXING SYSTEM" |
| EP2721946A3 (en) * | 2012-10-19 | 2014-05-07 | Giuseppe Mallozzi | A bowl for the containment of hair dyes with a system for the fixing thereof to the hand-cart |
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| FZDE | Dead |