CN116322429A - Adapter with interchangeable elements for connecting cosmetic applicators to external devices - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides an adapter (1200), which connects any one of various cosmetic applicators (101, 205, 301, 303, 305) for applying cosmetics to the guiding device. A motion control device (400) for movement of a cosmetic applicator. The adapter comprises a base part (1001) and an end part (1007), the base part having a base connection for connecting the adapter to the motion control device in a specific orientation, The end piece has an end connector for connecting the adapter to a cosmetic applicator. The end piece has a central axis passing through its center and is rotatably attached to the base about the central axis with a structure for locking the end piece at a particular angle of rotation about the central axis. seat parts.

Description

Rotary with interchangeable elements for connecting cosmetic applicators to external devices Connector

Cross References to Related Applications

This application claims the benefit of priority by reference to non-provisional applications No. 17/036,597, filed September 29, 2020, and French application serial number 2012204, filed November 26, 2020, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

background

technical field

The present disclosure relates to interchangeable elements of an adapter for connecting a cosmetic applicator to an external device, and in particular, to a motion control device.

Description of related technologies

The "Background" description provided herein is for the purpose of generally presenting the context of the disclosure. Neither the work of the presently named inventors (to the extent described in this Background section) nor aspects of the description that would otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing are admitted, either expressly or implicitly, to this Invention prior art.

There are many types of cosmetic applicators, including mascara applicators, lip gloss applicators, eyeshadow applicators. Applicators come in a variety of sizes, shapes and textures.

A conventional mascara applicator includes a mascara wand with bristles. The mascara stem includes a stem, one end of which defines an applicator head having bristles. The applicator head can be a flat, tapered or curved comb. The applicator tip can be thin for shorter lashes or thicker for thicker lashes. Further, the applicator head may have a brush design that facilitates separation of the eyelashes, or another design that facilitates thickening and volume of the eyelashes. Apply the mascara-filled applicator tip to eyelashes. Applying mascara with a conventional applicator requires several brush passes.

The end of the mascara rod can be attached to the handle. The handle is usually conical or cylindrical in shape, or in some cases, a flattened rectangular shape. Rotating rod brushes have been proposed that may reduce the user's need to roll the handle during application of mascara. Rotating the mascara brush can be accomplished by supporting the brush shaft for rotational movement relative to the handle.

US Patent 8,028,707 to Wyatt et al. describes a cosmetic applicator including a handle and a stem, wherein the applicator head is coupled to the stem. An actuator is coupled to the applicator head to move the applicator head in an oscillating motion.

Despite all types of applicator heads and handles that can rotate or vibrate the applicator head, users with hand tremors or limited hand and arm mobility may experience difficulty using the applicator to apply cosmetic products, especially products such as lip gloss and Cosmetics such as mascara require fine control. Hand tremors can be caused by Parkinson's disease and essential tremor. People with tremors may have difficulty holding a cosmetic applicator steadily. "Limited hand and arm mobility" can be caused by cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, Huntington's disease, and post-stroke deficits. People with hand limitations and arm tremors may have difficulty holding a cosmetic applicator in a desired position at a specific angle. Additionally, the various forms of applicators require different movements of the hand and arm.

It is an object of the present disclosure to describe the combination of a motion stabilizing device or leveling device and a cosmetic applicator to assist persons with hand tremors or limited hand and arm mobility. On the one hand is an adapter for connecting a motion stabilizer or leveling device to any of several types of cosmetic applicators of different sizes and shapes. One aspect is an adapter with one or more swivel elements to enable easy adjustment of the angle of the cosmetic applicator.

Contents of the invention

A first aspect is an adapter for connecting any of a variety of cosmetic applicators for applying cosmetics to a motion control device that directs movement of the cosmetic applicator, the adapter comprising: a base part, the base part has a base connector for connecting the adapter to the motion control device in a specific orientation; and an end part, the end part has an end for connecting the adapter to the cosmetic applicator Connectors. The end piece has a central axis passing through its center and is rotatably attached to the base piece about the central axis with a structure for locking the end piece at a particular rotational angle about the central axis.

A second aspect, wherein the end piece is made of rubber.

A third aspect, wherein the base connector has an oval-shaped cross-section.

A fourth aspect, wherein the base connector has an hourglass shaped cross-section.

A fifth aspect, wherein the base connection includes a pair of magnets positioned at opposite sides of the base connection, and wherein the pair of magnets has a first polarity that attracts the motion stabilization device in one orientation and Repel motion stabilizers in the other orientation.

A sixth aspect, wherein the structure for locking the end piece at a particular angle of rotation about the central axis is a lockable detent that allows incremental rotation in one direction and locks against rotation in the reverse direction. on the rotation.

A seventh aspect, wherein the end connector for connecting the adapter to the cosmetic applicator includes an opening for inserting and retaining the cosmetic applicator within the opening.

An eighth aspect, wherein the opening for holding the cosmetic applicator includes a plurality of rubber bumps protruding inside the opening to grip the cosmetic applicator.

A ninth aspect, wherein the plurality of rubber bumps are arranged in a pattern of at least two rings.

A tenth aspect, wherein the opening for holding the cosmetic applicator includes a plurality of equidistantly spaced ribs protruding inside the opening extending in the depth direction of the opening to catch the cosmetic applicator device.

An eleventh aspect, wherein the end piece is interchangeable with other end pieces having openings of different sizes and shapes.

A twelfth aspect, wherein the motion control device directs movement in the opposite direction of any detected vibratory hand motion.

A thirteenth aspect, wherein the opening for holding the cosmetic applicator is cylindrical in shape.

A fourteenth aspect, wherein the opening for holding the cosmetic applicator tapers to a smaller diameter from the entrance to the opening.

A fifteenth aspect, wherein the opening for holding the cosmetic applicator is rectangular in cross section.

A sixteenth aspect is a cosmetic applicator system comprising: an applicator stabilizer unit configured to stabilize the applicator in response to involuntary muscle movement caused by a user; and an applicator coupling An applicator coupling element configured to detachably attach the cosmetic applicator to the applicator stabilizer unit.

A seventeenth aspect, wherein the applicator coupling element is configured to detachably attach the cosmetic applicator to the applicator stabilizer unit via a bayonet coupling, a friction fit coupling, a magnetic coupling, a snap fit coupling, or a threaded coupling.

An eighteenth aspect, wherein the applicator coupling element comprises at least: a first attachment portion configured to detachably attach a cosmetic applicator to the applicator coupling element; and a second attachment portion, The second attachment portion is configured to detachably attach the applicator coupling element to the applicator stabilizer unit.

A nineteenth aspect, wherein the first attachment portion is detachably attached to the applicator via one of a bayonet coupling, a friction fit coupling, a magnetic coupling, a snap fit coupling, or a threaded coupling; and the second attachment portion is via A different one of a bayonet coupling, a friction fit coupling, a magnetic coupling, a snap fit coupling or a threaded coupling is removably attached to the applicator stabilizer unit.

A twentieth aspect, wherein the applicator coupling element comprises at least: a first attachment portion configured to detachably attach a cosmetic applicator to the applicator coupling element; and a second attachment portion, The second attachment portion is configured to detachably attach the applicator coupling element to the applicator stabilizer unit; and wherein the first attachment portion and the second attachment portion comprise a bayonet coupling component, a friction fit coupling component, Magnetic coupling parts, snap fit coupling parts or threaded coupling parts.

The foregoing general description of exemplary embodiments and its following detailed description are exemplary aspects of the teachings of the disclosure, and are not restrictive.

Description of drawings

A more complete appreciation of the present disclosure and its many attendant advantages will readily be obtained as it will be better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figures 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, and 1E are schematic diagrams showing some different types of cosmetic applicators in a range of shapes and sizes;

Figures 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D are schematic diagrams showing some different types of cosmetic applicators in a range of shapes and sizes;

3A, 3B, and 3C are schematic diagrams showing a cosmetic applicator inserted into a handle;

Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a motion stabilization device;

Figure 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the leveling device;

Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the applicator stabilizer unit in a reclined position;

Figure 7 is a diagram of the internal components of the applicator stabilizer unit of Figure 6;

Figure 8 is a diagram of an alternative configuration of the internal components of the applicator stabilizer unit of Figure 6;

9 is a perspective view of an applicator coupling element having detents for rotating the element according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure;

10 is a perspective view of an alternative applicator coupling element having detents for rotating the element according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure;

11 is a perspective view of an applicator coupling element with a single pawl for rotation according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure;

12 is a perspective view of an alternative applicator coupling element having a single pawl for rotation according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure;

Figure 13 is a perspective view of an alternative applicator coupling element having a smaller diameter than the adapter of Figures 9-12;

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating the connection of a motion stabilization device to an applicator coupling element according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure;

Figure 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating the connection relationship of a leveling device or applicator stabilizer unit to an applicator coupling element according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure;

Fig. 16 is a schematic diagram showing the connection relationship of a motion stabilization device, an applicator coupling element, and a cosmetic applicator according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure; Fig. 17 is a schematic diagram showing a leveling device or a cosmetic applicator according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure a schematic diagram of the connection relationship between the applicator stabilizer unit, the applicator coupling element and the cosmetic applicator; and

Figures 18A, 18B, 18C show different examples of using applicator stabilizer units with different applicators.

Detailed ways

In the drawings, like reference numerals designate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views. Further, as used herein, the words "a", "an", etc. generally carry the meaning of "one or more" unless otherwise stated. The drawings are generally drawn to scale unless otherwise indicated or showing schematic structures or flow diagrams.

In addition, the terms "about", "approximately", "approximately" and similar terms generally refer to a range of values including within a margin of 20%, 10%, or preferably 5%, and any value therebetween.

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to applicator coupling elements, also referred to as Adapter.

To provide a universal connection for cosmetic applicators of various shapes and sizes, the applicator coupling element (or adapter) is configured to attach the cosmetic product via a bayonet, friction fit, magnetic, snap fit, or threaded coupling. The applicator is detachably attached to the applicator stabilizer unit.

1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E are schematic diagrams showing some different types of cosmetic applicators in a range of shapes and sizes. Figure 1A is a wide form applicator that can be used to apply a creamy foundation, mask, primer or foundation. Figure 1B is a fine-tipped swab applicator that can be used for lip gloss or eyeliner, and Figure 1C is an applicator with a brush at its tip for applying eye mascara. Figure ID is a brush applicator for applying facial or eye makeup. Brushes can be small, medium or large and can be round, square or tapered. Figure 1E is a flat puff applicator for applying powder, body highlighter or talcum powder.

2A, 2B, 2C, 2D are schematic diagrams showing some different types of cosmetic applicators in a range of shapes and sizes. Some cosmetic applicators, especially those with brushes and puffs, can have large diameter handles. The handle can be shaped for easy manipulation as in FIG. 2A , or can have a long conical end (as in FIG. 2B ), a closed end (as in FIG. 2C ), or a short conical end (as in FIG. 2D ). ) cylinder.

3A, 3B, and 3C are schematic diagrams illustrating a cosmetic applicator inserted into a handle. The applicator can be a lip gloss brush or a mascara applicator. The handle can be tapered (as in Figure 3A) or cylindrical (as in Figures 3B and 3C).

Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a motion stabilization device. The motion stabilization device 400 may include a handle for easy gripping of the device and a pair of magnets 403 on either side of the connecting member 405 . The shape of the connection part 405 and the orientation of the two magnets 403 ensure a one-way connection orientation with the external device. The motion stabilization device may include a circuit board 411 containing sensors, a controller and a motor that controls the movement of the link member 405 relative to the detected jerky movement. Sensors detect hand movement, and a controller distinguishes unwanted tremors from intended hand movement. To stabilize the cosmetic applicator, the controller directs the motor to move the cosmetic applicator in the opposite direction of any detected tremors.

Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the leveling device. The leveling device 500 includes a pair of magnets 503 on either side of a connector 505 . The shape of the connector 505 and the orientation of the two magnets 503 ensure a one-way connection orientation with the external device. The leveling device may comprise a circuit board 511 containing sensors, controllers and motors that control the movement of the connecting member 521 through a series of movements of the leveling device to keep it level. The sensors detect changes in the intended movement of the hand in three-dimensional space. To level the cosmetic applicator, the controller directs the motor to bend the flexible joint, thereby maintaining the attached cosmetic applicator at the correct angle.

Figure 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating the applicator stabilizer unit in a reclined position. The applicator stabilizer unit is described in more detail by US PG Publication 2020/0085168A1, incorporated herein by reference. As shown in FIG. 6 , the connection member 621 of the applicator stabilizer unit 600 is configured to twist between an upright position and a reclined position (as shown in FIG. 6 ). This is accomplished by a hinge mechanism contained within the connection part 621 . Figure 6 shows that the hinge mechanism is a self-leveling/motion-stabilizing hinge. FIG. 7 is a diagram of the internal components of the applicator stabilization unit of FIG. 6 . FIG. 7 shows a diagram of the internal components of an applicator stabilizer unit 600 according to one embodiment. In the handle portion 601 the unit includes a power source 701 which may be a battery or the like. Applicator stabilizer unit 600 includes a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) 703 , which may include position sensor circuitry 711 , reader circuitry 713 , control circuitry 715 , and communication interface 717 , as is understood in the art.

For example, as sensor circuitry 711, the PCBA may include at least one inertial sensor and at least one distributed motion sensor to detect involuntary muscle movements and measure correlations with these involuntary muscle movements that occur when the user adversely affects the movement of the cosmetic applicator. signal of. These sensors also detect movement of the stabilized output relative to the unit. The control circuit sends voltage commands to the motion generating element in response to the signal to cancel tremors or involuntary muscle movements of the user. This cancellation holds and stabilizes the position of the applicator, thereby keeping it stable.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that various implementations of control circuits and sensor circuits may be utilized with the systems and methods in accordance with the present invention and will be within the spirit and scope of the present invention. In one embodiment, the control circuit 715 includes an electrical system capable of generating an electrical response from sensor input, such as a programmable microcontroller or field programmable gate array (FPGA). In one embodiment, the control circuit comprises an 8-bit ATMEGA8A programmable microcontroller manufactured by Atmel due to its overall low cost, low power consumption and ability to be used in high volume applications.

In one embodiment, at least one inertial sensor in the sensor circuit is a sensor including, but not limited to, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, or a combination of both. In one embodiment, at least one of the distributed motion sensors in the sensor circuit is a non-contact position sensor, including but not limited to a Hall effect magnetic sensor.

A system created through a combination of sensor circuits, control circuits, and motion-generating elements can be a closed-loop control system that senses motion and acceleration at various points in the system and feeds the details into a control algorithm that moves the The motion creates the element to cancel the net effect of the user's involuntary muscle movement, and thus stabilize the position of the cosmetic applicator. The operation and details of the elements of the control system and the control algorithm are understood in the art, as described in US PG Publication 2014/0052275A1, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Communication interface 717 may include a network controller such as the BCM43342 Wi-Fi, Frequency Modulation and Bluetooth combo chip from Broadcom for interfacing with the network.

In the connection part 621 of the applicator stabilizer unit 600 there may be two drive elements to allow three-dimensional movements as receivers for anti-shake movements. The two drive elements include a y-axis drive element 705 and an x-axis drive element 707 each connected to and controlled by PCBA 703 . Each of the drive elements may be a servo motor as understood in the art. The applicator stabilizer unit 600 further includes a connector 505 configured to couple with the adapter. Connector 505 may include an RFID reader 709 configured to read a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag that may be included in the cosmetic applicator.

8 is a diagram of an alternative configuration of the internal components of the applicator stabilizer unit of FIG. 6 . FIG. 8 shows a view of an alternative embodiment of an applicator stabilizer unit 600 , wherein the connection part 621 comprises an electromagnetic positioner 811 instead of the drive element shown in FIG. 7 . The electromagnetic positioner 811 may include a U-shaped magnetic core 809 arranged around a non-magnetic tube 805 filled with a magnetic fluid 813 . Each of the magnetic cores has an arm portion surrounded by a winding 807 . The magnetic core can be controlled by control circuitry in the PCBA 703 to act as a controllable active magnetic field generating structure for generating a variable magnetic field that acts on the magnetic fluid causing it to displace, thereby enabling the armature to Move to the desired coordinate location and/or orientation. Details of implementing the electromagnetic locator 811 can be found in US Patent No. 6,553,161, which is incorporated herein by reference. The applicator coupling element may be configured to detachably attach the cosmetic applicator to the applicator stabilizer unit. The applicator coupling element may be configured to detachably attach the cosmetic applicator to the applicator stabilizer unit via any of several types of connections including, but not limited to, bayonet couplings, friction fit couplings, magnetic connection, snap fit connection or screw connection.

The applicator coupling element may comprise at least a first attachment portion configured to detachably attach the cosmetic applicator to the applicator coupling element and a second attachment portion configured to The applicator coupling element is detachably attached to the applicator stabilizer unit. The first attachment portion is detachably attached to the applicator via one of a bayonet coupling, a friction fit coupling, a magnetic coupling, a snap fit coupling, or a threaded coupling; and the second attachment portion is via a bayonet coupling, friction fit A different one of a coupling, a magnetic coupling, a snap fit coupling or a threaded coupling is detachably attached to the applicator stabilizer unit.

The applicator coupling element may comprise at least a first attachment portion configured to detachably attach the cosmetic applicator to the applicator coupling element and a second attachment portion configured to The applicator coupling element is detachably attached to the applicator stabilizer unit. The first attachment part and the second attachment part comprise a bayonet coupling part, a friction fit coupling part, a magnetic coupling part, a snap fit coupling part or a threaded coupling part.

9 is a perspective view of an applicator coupling element (adapter) with detents for rotating the element, according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure. The applicator coupling element 900 may have a diameter sufficient to fit a cosmetic applicator inserted into the handle. Base portion 901 may include an opening 921 shaped to receive connection member 405 of motion stabilization device 400 . Although the illustration in FIG. 9 shows an opening having an hourglass cross-section, the opening may have other shapes including, but not limited to, oval.

The base portion 901 may include a pair of magnets 923 to ensure proper orientation of the applicator coupling element 900 with the motion stabilizer 400 . In particular, the polarity of the magnets 923 may be such that in the correct orientation, the magnets 403 will be attracted to the corresponding magnets 923 . In an incorrect orientation, magnet 403 will be repelled by magnet 923 . The magnetic force between the magnet 923 and the magnet 403 serves to hold the applicator coupling element 900 to the motion stabilizer 400 . The base part 901 has a cylindrical outer shape so as to be combined with the end part 907 . The base portion 901 may take alternative shapes including an hourglass shape or a tapered shape to accommodate a reduced or enlarged diameter end portion 907 .

The applicator coupling element 900 includes a plurality of detents to enable fine adjustment of the angle at which the applicator is positioned relative to the motion stabilizer 400 . Referring to FIG. 9 , first pawl 903 allows rotation 913 relative to base portion 901 . The second pawl 905 allows rotation 915 relative to the first pawl 903 . The pawl may include one or more springs to exert a force on the pawl. The first pawl 903 and the second pawl 905 may be configured as locking pawls with an arrangement of latches 931 evenly spaced around the circumference of the ring. The latch 931 allows one direction of rotation 913 . The amount of angular rotation between locked positions depends on the number of latches 931 . Having two pawls 903, 905 may allow the angle of rotation between the locked positions to be divided in half, enabling a finer degree of control. In one embodiment, the latch 931 is wedge-shaped to enable easy rotation between locked positions. In an alternative embodiment, the latch is a rectangular tooth that is inserted into a slot in the end tooth arrangement of the corresponding component. The pawls 903, 905 and base 901 may be made of plastic or a metal alloy such as stainless steel or aluminum.

The opening 909 in the end portion 907 is shaped and sized to receive a cosmetic applicator with a handle. The opening 909 may have a circular cross section such that the opening 909 is a cylinder. In some embodiments, opening 909 may have a rectangular cross-section. To hold the cosmetic applicator in place, a bump 911 may be arranged inside the opening 909 . The bumps 911 may be evenly spaced in a linear arrangement around the inner circumference of the opening. More than one linear arrangement may be provided along the depth of the opening. The bumps 911 may be randomly arranged in the inner surface of the opening. End portion 907 may be made of a soft, compressible material such as rubber. In some embodiments, bump 911 may be rubber. In some embodiments, tab 911 may be positioned to accommodate cosmetic applicators of different shapes and sizes. In some embodiments, the opening 909 may taper to a smaller cross-section relative to the entrance to the opening 909 .

10 is a perspective view of an alternative applicator coupling unit (adapter) with detents for rotating the applicator coupling element according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure. Similar to the applicator coupling element 900 , the applicator coupling element 1000 includes a base portion 1001 which may include an opening 1021 shaped to receive the connection part 405 of the motion stabilization device 400 . Base portion 1001 may include a pair of magnets 1023 to ensure proper orientation of adapter 1000 and motion stabilization device 400 . In particular, the polarity of the magnets 1023 may be such that in the correct orientation, the magnets 403 will be attracted to the corresponding magnets 1023 . In an incorrect orientation, magnet 403 will be repelled by magnet 1023 . The magnetic force between the magnet 1023 and the magnet 403 is used to hold the adapter 1000 to the motion stabilization device 400 .

The applicator coupling unit 1000 includes a plurality of detents to enable fine adjustment of the angle of rotation of the cosmetic applicator relative to the central axis of the motion stabilizer 400 . Referring to FIG. 10 , first pawl 1003 allows rotation 1013 relative to base portion 1001 . The second pawl 1005 allows rotation 1015 relative to the first pawl 1003 . The first pawl 1003 and the second pawl 1005 may be configured as locking pawls with an arrangement of latches 1031 evenly spaced around the circumference of the ring. The latch 1031 allows one-way rotation. In one embodiment, the latch 1031 is wedge-shaped. In an alternative embodiment, the latch is a rectangular tooth that is inserted into a slot in the end tooth arrangement of the corresponding component. The pawls 1003, 1005 and base 1001 may be made of plastic.

The opening 1009 in the end portion 1007 is sized to receive a cosmetic applicator with a handle. In order to hold the cosmetic applicator in place, a rib 1011 may be arranged inside the opening 1009 . The ribs 1011 may be evenly spaced in a circular arrangement around the inner circumference of the opening. Rib 1011 can extend the entire depth of the opening. End portion 1007 may be made of a soft, compressible material such as rubber.

11 is a perspective view of an applicator coupling unit (adapter) with a single pawl for rotation according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure. Applicator coupling element 1100 is structurally similar to applicator coupling element 900 , but only includes a single detent 1103 .

12 is a perspective view of an alternative applicator coupling element (adapter) with a single pawl for rotation according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure. Applicator coupling element 1200 is structurally similar to applicator coupling element 1000 , but only includes a single detent 1203 .

Figure 13 is a perspective view of an alternative applicator coupling element (adapter) having a smaller diameter than that of Figures 9-12. Applicator coupling element 1300 may have a smaller diameter to accommodate levelers or stabilizers with smaller connection interfaces. Similar to elements 900 , 1000 , 1100 , 1200 , applicator coupling element 1300 includes a base portion 1301 which may include an opening 1321 shaped to receive connection part 505 of applicator stabilizer unit 500 . Base portion 1301 may include a pair of magnets 1323 to ensure proper orientation of applicator coupling element 1300 and applicator stabilizer unit 500 . In particular, the polarity of the magnets 1323 may be such that in the correct orientation, the magnets 503 will be attracted to the corresponding magnets 1323 . In an incorrect orientation, magnet 503 will be repelled by magnet 1323 . The magnetic force between the magnet 1323 and the magnet 503 serves to hold the applicator coupling element 1300 to the applicator stabilizer unit 500 .

The applicator coupling element 1300 includes detents to enable adjustment of the angle at which the cosmetic applicator is positioned relative to the applicator stabilizer unit 500 . In some embodiments, the applicator coupling element 1300 can include a plurality of detents for fine adjustment of the rotational angle of the cosmetic applicator. Referring to FIG. 13 , the pawl 1303 is allowed to rotate 1313 relative to the base portion 1301 . The pawls 1305 may be configured as locking pawls with an arrangement of latches 1331 evenly spaced around the circumference of the ring. The latch 1331 allows one-way rotation. In one embodiment, the latch 1331 is wedge-shaped. In an alternative embodiment, the latch is a rectangular tooth that is inserted into a slot in the end tooth arrangement of the corresponding component. The pawl 1303 and base 1301 may be made of plastic.

The opening 1309 in the end portion 1307 is sized to receive a small diameter cosmetic applicator, such as a mascara rod. In order to hold the cosmetic applicator in place, a raised rib 1311 may be arranged inside the opening 1309 . The ribs 1311 may be evenly spaced in a circular arrangement around the inner circumference of the opening. Rib 1311 can extend the entire depth of the opening. End portion 1307 may be made of a soft, compressible material such as rubber.

14 is a schematic diagram illustrating the connection of a motion stabilization device to an applicator coupling element according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure. The magnetic force between magnet 923 and magnet 403 serves to hold applicator coupling element 900 to motion stabilizer 400 when connector 405 is inserted into opening 921 . The motion stabilization device 400 is configured to impart motion to the connector 405 causing a vertical angular motion 1401 of the applicator coupling element 900 .

Fig. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating the connection relationship of a leveling device or applicator stabilizer unit to an applicator coupling element according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure. The magnetic force between magnet 1323 and magnet 503 serves to hold applicator coupling element 1300 to leveling device 500 or applicator stabilizer unit 600 when connector 505 is inserted into opening 1321 . Leveling device 500 is configured to impart motion to connector 505 causing vertical angular motion 1501 of applicator coupling element 1300 . Vertical angular motion 1501 is a wider range of motion than motion 1401 because it allows applicator coupling element 1300 to be kept level through a range of orientations of the leveling device.

16 is a schematic diagram illustrating a connection relationship of a motion stabilizing device, an applicator coupling member (adapter), and a cosmetic applicator according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure. Applicator coupling elements (adapters) 900, 1000, 1100, 1200 can be used to apply cosmetics with wide diameters such as applicators 101, 205 or mounted to wide diameter handles such as 301, 303, 305 The device is coupled to the motion stabilization device 400. Detent 903 allows rotation and locking of applicator coupling element 900 , 1000 , 1100 , 1200 at rotation angle 1013 . Multiple detents may be used to allow finer control over the angle of rotation 1013 .

FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating a connection relationship of a leveling device or applicator stabilizer unit, an applicator coupling member (adapter) and a cosmetic applicator according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure. Applicator coupling element (adapter) 1300 may be used to couple a cosmetic applicator such as applicators 103 , 105 , 107 , 201 , 203 to leveling device 500 or applicator stabilizer unit 600 . Detent 1303 allows rotation and locking of applicator coupling element 1300 at rotation angle 1313 .

Applicator coupling elements 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300 may be provided in various sizes such that motion stabilizer 400 may be used with small diameter cosmetic applicators or that applicator stabilizer unit 1300 may be used with large diameter cosmetic applicators. Cosmetic applicators are used together or inserted into the handle.

Figures 18A to 18C illustrate the differences in using the applicator stabilizer unit 500 with different applicators such as the nail polish applicator in Figure 18A, the mascara brush in Figure 18B, and the lipstick applicator in Figure 18C. example.

Numerous modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings.

It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.

Claims (20)

1. An adapter that connects any of a variety of cosmetic applicators for applying cosmetics to a motion control device that directs movement of the cosmetic applicator, the adapter comprising : a base member having a base connector for connecting the adapter to the motion control device in a particular orientation; and an end piece having an end connector for connecting the adapter to a cosmetic applicator; wherein the end piece has a central axis passing through its center and is rotatably attached to the Base parts. 2. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said end piece is made of rubber. 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the base connector has an oval-shaped cross-section. 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the base connector has an hourglass-shaped cross-section. 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the base connection includes a pair of magnets positioned at opposite sides of the base connection, and Wherein the pair of magnets has a first polarity that attracts the motion stabilizing device in one orientation and repels the motion stabilizing device in another orientation. 6. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said structure for locking said end piece at a particular angle of rotation about said central axis is a lockable detent which allows rotation in one direction Incremental rotation on and locked to prevent rotation in the opposite direction of rotation. 7. The device of claim 1, wherein the end connector for connecting the adapter to a cosmetic applicator includes an opening for inserting and retaining the cosmetic applicator in the opening Inside. 8. The device of claim 7, wherein the opening for holding the cosmetic applicator includes a plurality of rubber nubs protruding inside the opening to grip the cosmetic applicator . 9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the plurality of rubber bumps are arranged in a pattern of at least two rings. 10. The device of claim 7, wherein said opening for holding said cosmetic applicator comprises a plurality of equally spaced ribs protruding inside said opening , extending in the depth direction of the opening for grasping the cosmetic applicator. 11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the end piece is interchangeable with other end pieces having openings of different sizes and shapes. 12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the motion control means directs movement in the opposite direction of any detected vibratory hand motion. 13. The device of claim 7, wherein the opening for holding the cosmetic applicator is cylindrical in shape. 14. The device of claim 7, wherein the opening for holding the cosmetic applicator tapers to a smaller diameter from an inlet to the opening. 15. The device of claim 7, wherein the opening for holding the cosmetic applicator is rectangular in cross section. 16. A cosmetic applicator system comprising: an applicator stabilizer unit configured to stabilize the applicator in response to involuntary muscle movement induced by a user; and An applicator coupling element configured to detachably attach a cosmetic applicator to the applicator stabilizer unit. 17. The cosmetic applicator system of claim 16, wherein the applicator coupling element is configured to attach the cosmetic applicator via a bayonet coupling, a friction fit coupling, a magnetic coupling, a snap fit coupling, or a threaded coupling. Removably attached to the applicator stabilizer unit. 18. The cosmetic applicator system according to claim 16, wherein said applicator coupling element comprises at least a first attachment portion configured to detachably attach a cosmetic applicator to the applicator coupling element, and A second attachment portion configured to detachably attach the applicator coupling element to the applicator stabilizer unit. 19. The cosmetic applicator system of claim 16, wherein the first attachment portion is removably attached to the applicator via one of a bayonet coupling, a friction fit coupling, a magnetic coupling, a snap fit coupling, or a threaded coupling; and The second attachment portion is detachably attached to the applicator stabilizer unit via a different one of a bayonet coupling, a friction fit coupling, a magnetic coupling, a snap fit coupling or a threaded coupling. 20. The cosmetic applicator system according to claim 16, wherein said applicator coupling element comprises at least a first attachment portion configured to detachably attach a cosmetic applicator to the applicator coupling element, and a second attachment portion configured to detachably attach the applicator coupling element to the applicator stabilizer unit; and Wherein said first attachment part and said second attachment part comprise a bayonet coupling part, a friction fit coupling part, a magnetic coupling part, a snap fit coupling part or a threaded coupling part.

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