DE102021115712A1 - Mascara system, applicator and depot unit for storing and applying mascara - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a mascara system (30) with an applicator (32) and a depot unit (1) for storing and applying mascara, in particular fluids and suspensions, the depot unit (1) having a refillable or replaceable tank (2), the Tank (2) is set up to store mascara, the depot unit (1) having at least one first recess (4) and preferably a second recess (6), the depot unit (1) having at least one first application element (8) and preferably has at least one second application element (10), the first application element (8), which is arranged in the first recess (4), being set up to convey mascara from the tank (2) onto an eyelash brush (12), and wherein furthermore preferably the second application element (10), which is arranged in the second recess (6), is set up to convey mascara from the tank (2) onto an eyelash brush (12).Ferner bet the invention relates to a mascara system (30), an applicator (32) that can be used for this purpose, and the use of a depot unit (1) for applying mascara.

Description

The invention relates to a mascara system with an applicator and a depot unit for storing and applying mascara for improved application of mascara.

STATE OF THE ART

A large number of mascaras and applicators and depots for mascaras are known in the prior art. Previous systems have a number of disadvantages.

The corona pandemic hit humanity hard in 2020 worldwide. Until recently, in most parts of the world, it was unimaginable that the majority of people in contact with others wear masks that cover most of the face. Everyday masks, some of which must be worn, give the eyes a special meaning and thus become an important means of communication.

A large number of people attach great importance to emphasizing the area around the eyes with the use of various cosmetics. The most important application is the mascara of the eyelashes. Mascara, also known as mascara, is a cosmetic product that has hardly changed in decades. Above all, the form of application has always remained the same. The liquid dye is applied to the lashes with a small brush to make them appear thicker and larger. The effect is mainly due to the tinting of the ends of the eyelashes. These are thinner and lighter than the base of the eyelashes and can therefore only be seen up close against the skin-colored background. Due to the dark tint of the mascara, the ends stand out clearly. The additional layer of color on the lashes also ensures that the lashes become thicker and therefore appear stronger.

The great importance of mascara becomes clear when you look at the numbers, as almost 80 percent of women in Germany regularly use mascara. A large number of systems and applicators or depots are known.

the DE 20 2011 109 545 discloses a double brush construction of a mascara applicator which has two movable arms, at the ends of which brushes are arranged.

the U.S. 2017/0231368 discloses a mascara applicator for simultaneously separating, rolling and applying mascara.

the U.S. 8,851,775 discloses a cosmetic tweezer applicator for applying mascara with conventional product containers.

the U.S. 5,007,442 discloses a forceps-shaped device consisting of right and left rods, each rod having an applicator at its lower and upper ends.

the US2014/0099152 discloses a mascara application system comprising a mascara applicator and a mascara container.

A particular disadvantage of the prior art is that the dosing and application of mascara to the eyelashes is associated with smearing and other problems and the potential of mascara application has therefore not yet been fully exploited.

The object of the present invention is to improve a mascara system in such a way that the application experience of a mascara user can be improved.

Embodiments of the invention may advantageously provide a depot unit for storing and applying mascara.

This object is solved by the depot unit for storing and applying mascara and the mascara system according to the independent claims. Advantageous developments of the invention are the subject matter of the dependent claims. Technical terms are used in the usual way. Where a particular meaning is conferred on a particular term, the following are definitions of terms within which the terms are used.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

According to the invention, a depot unit for storing and applying mascara, in particular fluids and suspensions, is provided. The depot unit has a refillable or replaceable tank, the tank being set up to store mascara, the depot unit having at least one first recess and preferably also a second recess, with the tank at least partially between the first recess in the case of two recesses and the second recess is arranged. The depot unit has at least one first application element and preferably at least one second application element, the first application element, which is arranged in the first recess, being set up to convey mascara from the tank onto an eyelash brush, and wherein preferably the second application element, which is arranged in the second recess, is adapted to convey mascara from the tank onto an eyelash brush.

In this respect, the invention relates to a depot unit with a refillable or replaceable tank, with an application element, for example in the form of a mascara-permeable element, being arranged between the tank and an applicator for mascara that can be inserted into a recess, in order to convey mascara out of the tank and apply it to the applicator . The at least one application element can either be arranged in an outer wall area of the preferably exchangeable tank, or the application element can be arranged in an inner wall area of a receiving section of the recess of the depot unit. Thus, either the replaceable tank can have at least one element for mascara, in particular one that is semi-permeable for mascara, as an application element, or such an application element is integrated in the receiving section of the depot unit. The exchangeable tank can be designed in the manner of a refill cartridge, comparable to an ink cartridge of a school fountain pen. The handling can also be comparable to that of a fountain pen, in particular the insertion mechanism and fluid management of the exchangeable tank in the depot unit. Depending on the viscosity of the ink, the type and design of the tank in the manner of an ink cartridge and the type of application element can vary.

With an exchangeable or refillable tank, the depot unit can be used over a longer period of time and thus clearly outperforms conventional mascara systems in terms of service life. Accordingly, the depot unit can be designed as a high-quality accessory and, for example, can be designed with decorative applications and/or high-quality materials. Mascara can be refilled in the tank or the tank can be exchanged so that different colored or different types of mascara can be used as needed. Mascara costs are reduced, waste is reduced, sustainability is increased and the ecological footprint is reduced.

The at least one recess can preferably be designed as a preferably semi-closed hollow cylinder, in particular as a semi-closed sleeve or bushing of the depot unit or the tank, which has an application element on the bottom section that is in fluid-conducting communication with a mascara depot located in the tank.

An advantage of the invention, in particular of an embodiment with two recesses, can be that the mascara can be applied in a targeted manner, in particular to the inside, by two brushes with the aid of the first and second application element. In contrast to existing mascara depots, the brush is not completely immersed, but only wetted from the side by the application element. Thus, an excessive application of mascara on the brush can be avoided. In addition, different mascaras can be applied using a depot unit, since the application element can be connected to different tanks. Furthermore, the tank of the depot unit can be replaced, since the applicator elements create a connecting piece between the brush and the tank, so that the depot unit can be used much longer and the environmental compatibility of the depot unit can be increased.

The depot unit can in particular be a tank, depot and/or store for mascara. The term "mascara" can be any fluid and/or suspension which is designed to color, tint and/or change the color of eyelashes, in particular human eyelashes. Furthermore, the mascara can be set up to positively influence the structure, in particular a curvature or individualization of eyelash hairs. Furthermore, the depot unit has a tank. The tank can be any device or element that is set up to store or store fluids or suspensions. The tank forms in particular a cavity in which the mascara can be stored or stored. The tank can be made from a plastic or metal, in particular a plastic composite and/or a metal alloy. Furthermore, the depot unit can be made at least partially from plastic, wood or metal, for example a plastic composite and/or a metal alloy. Furthermore, the depot unit can also be formed in particular from a plastic-metal composite component. The depot unit has a first recess and a second recess. The recesses can in particular be bores or similar contours within the depot unit, into which in particular a brush of an applicator can be inserted. Furthermore, the recesses extend along a direction of extent which is arranged essentially parallel to the main direction of extent of the depot unit. The main direction of extent is mainly defined by the insertion of an applicator or its brushes. In this case, the tank is in particular partially between the first recess and the second Recess arranged or positioned. This means that the first recess and the second recess are preferably arranged on opposite sides of the tank. This is in terms of 7 explained further.

Furthermore, the depot unit has at least one first application element and at least one second application element. The application elements can be any form of semi-permeable surface, such as a perforated surface, a semi-permeable membrane or similar surfaces. The surface can be made semipermeable, for example by an injection molding process or the like, or machine-made semipermeable openings can be made in the surfaces, for example the surface can be made by means of bores, have a network structure, be an ink-permeable element, a membrane, an open-pored surface , a fabric structure, a lattice structure, a generative element, a perforated structure or as an additively manufactured element in 3D printing. The applicator element can also be designed in the manner of a sponge, for example as a naturally grown sponge structure, as a plastic sponge or as a natural sponge. In particular, the first and the second application element each have a fluid or suspension connection to the tank. Furthermore, the first and second application element can form a surface on which mascara is located, which can be conveyed from the tank onto the surface in order to be picked up there by a brush of an applicator. The application element can be part of a boundary surface of the tank or an inner boundary surface of the recess of the depot unit. Furthermore, the first application element is arranged or positioned in the first recess of the depot unit. In this case, the first application element is set up to convey mascara from the tank onto an eyelash brush, in particular an applicator, or to make it available for this. In other words, the first application element ensures that mascara is conveyed or transported from the tank onto the application element and the eyelash brush of the applicator can pick up the mascara there. Furthermore, the second application element is arranged or positioned in the second recess. Like the first application element, the second application element is also set up or configured to convey or transport mascara from the tank onto an eyelash brush. The eyelash brush can in particular be a different eyelash brush than the one in the first recess. A double-brush applicator with a brush in the first recess and a second brush in the second recess is particularly preferably introduced into the depot unit in order to receive mascara there. Furthermore, the second applicator element is set up to convey or transport the mascara from the tank to a surface of the applicator element where the eyelash brush can pick up the mascara.

According to one embodiment, the first application element and the second application element each have a mascara-permeable surface, in particular a semi-permeable structure or surface.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that an eyelash brush is not completely immersed in a mascara and thus a predetermined amount of mascara gets onto the eyelash brush. This has the particular advantage that excess mascara does not have to be wiped off the applicator or that it is even applied to the eyelashes.

In other words, the application element or elements have permeable surfaces or elements, such as a permeable or semi-permeable membrane and/or a perforation and/or a spongy structure. The permeable surface or the permeable element can in particular mean a surface or an element, e.g. made of a plastic or plastic composite, or a naturally grown element, e.g. 01 to 1 mm. With the number of openings in the surface or their diameter, in particular a permeability of the permeable surface can be adjusted in a targeted manner. Furthermore, however, other technical options are also conceivable which can set a targeted permeability of fluids and suspensions.

According to one embodiment, the permeable surfaces are at least partially perforated or otherwise semi-permeable, so that the mascara can be conveyed from the tank onto the eyelash brush without the risk of unintentionally dispensing too large a quantity of mascara.

Advantageously, the semi-permeable effect of the applicator element can be adjustable, for example, from two parallel adjacent perforated surfaces, membranes, network or lattice structures that can be displaced or rotated relative to one another. By adjusting the relative position of the surfaces, the amount of penetration of the mascara can be adjusted and the degree of mascara wetting on the brush(es) of the applicator can be adjusted. So can a permeable tätsregler, such as a slider or a rotary knob affect the effective opening cross section of one or both application elements that is included in the depot unit. If an individually adjustable permeability regulator is provided for each application element in the case of two application elements, the amount of mascara wetting of the two eyelash brushes can be set individually in the case of an applicator with two bars. Thus, the mascara wetting can be adjusted variably on the top side of the lid compared to the bottom side of the lid.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the perforated permeable surface provides a simple and inexpensive way, which can easily be implemented in large numbers, to apply mascara to the permeable surfaces of the application elements. Thus, in particular, excessive wetting of an eyelash brush of an applicator can be avoided.

In other words, the permeable surfaces of the first and/or the second application element have a perforation. In this case, the perforation can be used in particular to adjust the permeability of the surfaces of mascara. For example, the permeable surfaces are formed from a plastic or metal composite that has a large number of holes. The number and the diameter of the holes can be selected in such a way that mascara is conveyed or transported from the tank to the permeable surfaces of the application elements and then to the eyelash brush. For example, a viscosity of the mascara and a number of openings or their diameter can be chosen such that the surface tension of the mascara prevents excessive leakage of the mascara and only wets the eyelash brush with a predetermined amount of mascara.

Alternatively, the application element can have a spongy volume structure and can be designed as a plastic, metal or natural sponge. A sustainable product can be created with a reduction in the use of environmentally harmful materials, in particular as a grown, spongy structure that can be arranged in an exchangeable manner in the depot unit or on a surface of the tank.

According to one embodiment, the depot unit and the tank are connected to one another in a non-positive and/or positive manner, so that the tank is arranged in the depot unit so that it can be replaced.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the service life of the depot unit is significantly extended, since the tank, which is arranged inside the depot unit in an exchangeable manner, can be refilled. In addition, the depot unit can be used flexibly, since other mascaras or other types of mascaras can also be filled into the tank and thus different fluids or suspensions can also be stored in the exchangeable tank. For example, the tank can be stored in the depot unit by means of a bayonet lock or a click lock, so that it is prevented from falling out. If the tank is empty or has a low level, it can be removed from the depot unit using the click or bayonet lock, refilled or replaced and then reinserted into the depot unit.

According to one embodiment, the tank has a nozzle for refilling the tank.

An advantage of this embodiment may be that the tank can be refilled without having to remove it from the depot unit. Thus, the tank can be refilled with the help of a refill pack.

In other words, the tank has a socket, which in particular has a fluid-tight or suspension-tight valve. The valve is particularly adapted to prevent mascara from running out of the tank while preventing mascara from entering the tank when it is to be refilled. For example, a refill container can be connected to the nozzle of the tank and mascara can be filled into the tank via the nozzle of the nozzle.

According to one embodiment, the tank has at least two chambers as a mascara depot, each chamber storing one type of mascara, with, preferably adjustable, at least one outlet of each chamber in fluid and/or suspension-conducting connection with the first applicator element and/or the second Application element is, or each chamber has a first and possibly also second application element. The application element or elements can thus be part of the outer wall areas of the chambers, i.e. integrated in the tank, or be part of the depot unit, with each chamber having a preferably switchable connection to the application element or elements.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that a depot unit contains two different or a large number of different eyelashes Stores or stores different types or types of mascara so that, for example, a mascara can be adapted to a time of day or to an occasion without having to carry a second depot unit or storage with you. The flexibility of the mascara insert or the depot unit can thus be increased. Furthermore, a combination of colors can also be applied one after the other, which can be provided using the same depot unit.

In other words, the tank has a first chamber, which can be connected to the first and/or the second application element, and a second chamber, which can also be connected to the first and/or the second application element. Alternatively or additionally, an outer wall area of a chamber can comprise one or two or more application elements. In addition, the tank can also have a large number of chambers, which can each be connected to the first and/or the second application element. For example, in a first position the tank is connected to the first and the second application element, so that in the first position mascara can be conveyed from the first chamber to the application elements. In a second position, the second chamber of the tank is connected to the first and second applicator elements, so that a second type of mascara can be conveyed to the first and second applicator elements. For example, the fluid- and/or suspension-conducting connection between the chambers and the application elements can be interrupted when changing the chambers, so that no mascara can get from the first chamber into the second chamber. It is thus possible to use two types of mascara in the same depot unit using simple means.

According to one embodiment, the tank is rotatably mounted in the depot unit.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that it can be switched from one type of mascara to the other using a simple twisting mechanism. This further increases the flexibility of the depot unit and improves its ergonomics.

In other words, the tank, which has at least two chambers, is rotatably mounted or arranged in the depot unit. The rotating mechanism of the depot unit is designed in such a way that in a first position the first chamber of the tank forms a fluid- and/or suspension-conducting connection with the first and the second application element. The tank can then be rotated within the depot unit, so that the second chamber of the tank can establish a fluid- and/or suspension-conducting connection to the first and/or second application element. In the second position, the fluid- or suspension-conducting connection between the first chamber and the first and second application element is interrupted, so that no mascara of the first type can escape from the tank. In the first position, the fluid- and/or suspension-conducting connection between the second chamber and the first and second application element is stopped or separated, so that no mascara of the second type can escape from the tank of the depot unit. In other words, when there is communication with one chamber, the other chamber is closed. Alternatively, application elements that are arranged in the outer wall sections of the tank can be turned towards the recess section(s) by the rotary movement, in which an applicator for the mascara can be accommodated.

According to one embodiment, at least one outer wall of the tank and/or the depot unit has a predetermined rigidity at least in regions, the outer wall being compressible by means of the predetermined rigidity and releasing mascara to the first element and/or the second element when pressure is applied. Nevertheless, instead of or in addition to the pressure-elastic outer wall, a pressure element, e.g. a push button, can be provided, which is designed to pressurize the tank contents to increase wetting of one or both application elements with mascara.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that an advantageous synergetic effect arises between the compressible or formable outer wall of the tank and the first and second application element, which are designed, for example, as perforated surfaces. The perforated surface can have a predetermined permeability of mascara, with compression of the depot unit being able to apply mascara to the eyelash brush through the application elements. For example, the outer wall of the tank has a recess or contour which enables the outer wall to be deformed or sets the predetermined rigidity. Alternatively or additionally, the outer wall of the tank can be made of an elastic material, which allows the outer wall to be deformed or sets the predetermined rigidity of the outer wall of the tank.

According to one embodiment, the first order element and/or the second order element are each set up to use only one Wet the inside of the eyelash brush with mascara.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that only one inside of an eyelash brush can be wetted with the specifically adjustable permeability of the permeable surfaces of the application elements, so that no excess mascara sticks to the eyelash brush. The inside of the eyelash brush is to be understood in such a way that the surface that comes into contact with the eyelash forms the inside of the eyelash brush. In other words, the application element or the permeable surface is arranged in such a way that the eyelash brush is only wetted at the points which come into contact with the eyelashes when the mascara is applied. Thus, in particular, accidental application of mascara, especially in the area around the eyes, can be avoided when applying the mascara to the eyelashes.

According to one embodiment, the first recess and/or the second recess each have a wiper which is designed to remove at least part of the mascara from the eyelash brush and is preferably designed to return wiped-off mascara to the tank.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that mascara can be wiped off the eyelash brush by means of the wiper and excess mascara thus remains in the depot unit. In addition, the wiper can also be used to fan out the eyelash brush by means of a resistance, so that the mascara can get to individual eyelash hairs better. The remaining mascara within the depot unit or on the wiper can be conveyed back into the tank by means of the application elements. The wiper is arranged, for example, in an edge region of the permeable surface of the first and second application element. For example, the wiper is a beveled surface within the first and/or second recess, as is the case, for example, in 7 is shown.

According to one embodiment, the first recess and/or the second recess are designed to center and/or orient the eyelash brush to the depot unit.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the eyelash brush can be prevented from slipping off the depot unit by means of the centering or orientation of the eyelash brush. This is possible because the applicator no longer has to be screwed to the depot unit, as is usual with previous depots. A cone can thus be provided on the first and second recess, which centers or orients the eyelash brush so that application of mascara to the hand or the like can be avoided. For example, a cone and/or a tapering opening can be provided at the end of the first and/or the second recess, which can center or orient or position the eyelash brush in the first and/or the second recess.

According to one embodiment, the first application element and the second application element are arranged opposite one another, in particular substantially parallel.

An advantage of this embodiment is that when the level of mascara in the tank of the depot unit decreases, the remaining mascara is evenly divided between the two application elements.

• - eine Depoteinheit, wie voranstehend und nachfolgend beschrieben,
• - einen Applikator, wobei der Applikator zumindest einen ersten Steg und bevorzugt auch einen zweiten Steg aufweist, welche sich gegenüberliegen, wobei der erste Steg und der zweite Steg an ihren ersten Enden miteinander verbunden sind, wobei der erste Steg und der zweite Steg an ihren zweiten Enden voneinander beabstandet sind. Hierzu weist der erste Steg und bevorzugt auch der zweite Steg an ihren zweiten Enden jeweils eine Bürste aufweisen, wobei der erste Steg dazu eingerichtet ist, in eine erste Ausnehmung der Depoteinheit zu greifen und bevorzugt der zweite Steg dazu eingerichtet ist, in eine zweite Ausnehmung der Depoteinheit zu greifen, sodass die Bürsten mit Wimperntusche benetzt werden. Die Bürsten können vorteilhaft als Halb- oder Vollbürste ausgebildet sein, bzw. es kann jede Art von Wimperntuschenbürste verwendet werden.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a mascara system for applying mascara, in particular fluids and suspensions, the mascara system having:

• - a depositary unit as described above and below,
• - An applicator, wherein the applicator has at least a first web and preferably also a second web, which face each other, the first web and the second web being connected to one another at their first ends, the first web and the second web being connected to each other at their second ends are spaced apart. For this purpose, the first web and preferably also the second web each have a brush at their second ends, the first web being set up to engage in a first recess of the depot unit and preferably the second web being set up to slide into a second recess of the To grab depot unit so that the brushes are wetted with mascara. The brushes can advantageously be designed as a half or full brush, or any type of mascara brush can be used.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the applicator, which has one or preferably two brushes, in other words a double brush applicator, can be used to grip an eyelash on one or both sides and thus cover the entire area with mascara on both sides at once. The applicator can be wetted again with mascara by placing one or both brushes in the depot unit, as above and below described, are plugged in, where they are wetted by means of the application elements of the first and preferably also the second recess with a predetermined amount of mascara, so that no smearing of the mascara can occur. Furthermore, the one or both webs, which are connected to one another at their first ends, allow them to be handled easily and precisely, such as with tweezers. In addition, the tweezers shape of the applicator makes it easier to grip the lashes on both sides, so that only one operation is necessary to wet both sides of the lashes with mascara.

In other words, the mascara system comprises a depot unit, as described above and below, stored in a tank with mascara. A first and preferably also a second application element are arranged inside the depot unit, in particular in the recess(es) of the depot unit, which convey mascara from the tank to a permeable surface of the application elements. The applicator has one or two webs which are connected to one another at their first ends and each have a brush at their second ends, so that the applicator is designed in the form of tweezers. Each brush can engage in a recess in the depot unit and is wetted with a predetermined amount of mascara by means of the application elements. Here, in particular, only the inside of the tweezers is wetted with mascara if two bars are used. Thus, no smearing of the mascara can occur on the eye area. The applicator can then be pulled out of the depot unit so that the eyelashes can be gripped on both sides using the tweezers.

According to one embodiment, the first bar and the second bar and their brushes are bent essentially parallel to one another at their second ends, so that the brushes form the largest possible contact surface with eyelashes.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the curved shape of the brushes allows them to be better adapted to the shape of the eyelashes.

In other words, the applicator is mirror-symmetrical around the first end of the two webs. A point is arranged in this mirror-symmetrical plane, around which the brushes of the applicator are bent, as shown in an example in 5 is shown. Due to the curved shape of the first and second webs at their second ends in combination with the brushes, which are also curved, the contact surface between the brush and the eyelashes can be increased.

According to one embodiment, the first bar and the second bar each have an operating surface, the first bar and the second bar having a holding point at their first ends, so that the applicator can be operated like tweezers using the operating surface and the holding point.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the design of the applicator in the form of a pair of tweezers makes it easier to hold and thus improves ergonomics.

In other words, the first bar of the applicator forms a first arm of tweezers and the second bar a second arm of tweezers, the two bars being connected to one another at the holding point. In addition, a control surface is arranged both on the first web and on the second web, which is set up, for example, to be operated using a finger. By pressing the two control surfaces, for example with the thumb and index finger, eyelashes can be gripped using the brushes of the applicator and mascara can be applied to the eyelashes.

According to one embodiment, the depot unit has a receiving section in an opening area of each recess, wherein a positive and/or non-positive connection can be formed between the receiving sections and the operating surfaces, wherein the positive or non-positive connection is designed to keep the recesses at least fluid and /or to close suspension-tight.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that a fluid and/or suspension-tight connection is created with the aid of the receiving sections and the operating surfaces engaging thereon, so that no mascara can run out of the depot unit if it is on the head, for example. This is particularly advantageous since mascara systems are typically carried in handbags or other pockets where the location of the depot unit cannot be controlled and thus spillage of the mascara must be prevented.

In other words, a first receiving section is formed in the first recess and a second receiving section is formed in the second recess. The receiving sections can, for example, be mirror-image contours of the operating surfaces of the applicator, so that a connection between the depot unit and the applicator that seals the shape and/or suspension is created. Furthermore, however, any other positive and/or non-positive connection can also be created hen, which is set up to prevent the mascara from escaping from the depot unit. The receiving section or sections can be designed as a half-closed cylinder, in particular as a half-closed sleeve or bushing. An application element can be arranged at the end area, which for example forms a partial section of the cylinder jacket surface and/or base surface, or which is formed on an outer surface section of the tank. If the receiving section is formed on the preferably exchangeable tank, a recess can be formed in the lower region of the receiving section, so that the applicator can receive mascara from the application element through the recess.

According to one embodiment, the one or the two or more brushes are arranged interchangeably on the first web and the second web, in particular by means of a positive and/or non-positive connection. Different brush shape different effects

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the service life of the mascara system, in particular of the applicator, can be significantly extended with the help of the replaceable brushes, since a defective brush can be replaced by means of the detachable connection. Brushes can also be individually adapted to the respective application, i.e. the shape and size of the eyelids or hairs to be wetted.

In other words, the brushes can be arranged on the webs by means of a snap, rotary and/or bayonet connection. In the event that the brush is damaged, it can be replaced simply by disconnecting it.

According to one embodiment, the first bar and the second bar are configured to generate a force by means of the brushes, which force is configured to grip and curl eyelashes by means of the brushes.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the eyelashes can be given more volume, so that the use of an eyelash curler is no longer necessary. For example, the first and second webs can be made of metal or plastic, in particular spring steel or a plastic composite, so that when they are closed to one another, they generate a force that causes the eyelashes to curve.

In a further aspect, the invention relates to an applicator for applying mascara, having at least one bar with a brush and preferably a second bar with a second brush, for use in an above-described depot unit for forming an above-described mascara system.

In an advantageous development of the applicator, the brush or brushes can be arranged on the first web and/or the second web in an exchangeable manner, in particular by means of a positive and/or non-positive connection. In particular, the brushes can be plugged, screwed, locked or fastened by means of a locking mechanism on the second end of the web. Alternatively or additionally, a magnetic closure is conceivable, for example. a magnetic force-assisted form-fitting connection. Thus, the brushes can be replaced as needed or when worn, or adapted for changing purposes.

In an advantageous development of the applicator, the brush hairs of the two brushes can, in the case of an applicator with two ridges, interlace one another when the mascara is applied to eyelids as intended, in particular interlace one another by an angle greater than 15°, preferably greater than 30°. When an applicator shaped like tweezers is pressed together, the brush hairs of the two brushes intertwine and can reliably grasp eyelashes on both sides and apply mascara to them.

In an advantageous development of the applicator, the brush hairs of the at least one brush can consist of silicone fibers, plastic fibers or natural fibers, in particular castor fibres. In the case of silicone or plastic fibers, a long service life, prevention of allergies and easy cleaning with water can be made possible. In particular, silicone enables a very soft, flexible brushing behavior, while plastic fibers can be made very fine and thin with a high density, natural fibers, especially castor fibers, take the idea of sustainability into account and enable a biologically active application of mascara.

A further aspect of the invention is directed to the use of a depot unit, as described above and below, for wetting eyelash brushes with mascara.

character list

Further advantages result from the present description of the drawings. Into the drawings Examples of embodiments of the invention are shown. The drawing, the description and the claims contain numerous features in combination. The person skilled in the art will expediently also consider the features individually and combine them into further meaningful combinations.

• 1 eine perspektivische Darstellung eines Mascarastifts gemäß dem Stand der Technik;
• 2 eine perspektivische Darstellung des Wimperntuschensystems gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 3a eine Seitenansicht des Wimperntuschensystems gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 3b eine Draufsicht des Wimperntuschensystems gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 3c eine perspektivische Ansicht des Wimperntuschensystems gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 3d eine Frontansicht des Wimperntuschensystems gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 4 eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Applikators des Wimperntuschensystems gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 5 eine Draufsicht eines Applikators des Wimperntuschensystems gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 6 eine Frontansicht eines Tanks des Wimperntuschensystems gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 7 eine Schnittansicht durch das Wimperntuschensystem gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 8 eine Schnittansicht und eine Seitenansicht eines Wimperntuschensystems gemäß einer Ausführungsform mit einem Applikator mit einem Steg.

Show it:

• 1 a perspective view of a mascara stick according to the prior art;
• 2 a perspective view of the mascara system according to an embodiment;
• 3a a side view of the mascara system according to an embodiment;
• 3b Figure 12 is a top view of the mascara system according to one embodiment;
• 3c Figure 12 is a perspective view of the mascara system according to one embodiment;
• 3d a front view of the mascara system according to an embodiment;
• 4 Figure 12 is a perspective view of an applicator of the mascara system according to one embodiment;
• 5 Figure 12 is a top view of an applicator of the mascara system according to one embodiment;
• 6 Figure 12 is a front view of a tank of the mascara system according to one embodiment;
• 7 a sectional view through the mascara system according to an embodiment;
• 8th 12 is a sectional view and a side view of a mascara system according to an embodiment having an applicator with a ridge.

In the figures, similar elements are numbered with the same reference numbers. The figures only show examples and are not to be understood as limiting.

1 Figure 12 shows a depot 54 with a brush 52 which is a mascara stick as known in the art. Typically, the brush 52 and the depot 54 each have a part of a screw closure, so that the brush of the brush 52 can be guided into the depot 54 and the brush 52 can be positively closed with the depot 54 by means of the screw connection. The depot 54 does not have a separate tank that is separate from it and can be refilled or replaced, so that the entire mascara system has to be disposed of after the mascara has been used up.

2 shows the mascara system 30 for applying mascara, which consists of a depot unit 1, as described above and below, and an applicator 32, as described above and below. The depot unit 1 has a first recess 4 and a second recess 6 . The applicator 32 has a first web 34 and a second web 36 . The first web 34 and the second web 36 are positioned relative to one another in such a way that they can engage in the recesses 4 , 6 of the depot unit 1 . For example, the first web 34 can engage in the first recess 4 and the second web 36 in the second recess 6. Furthermore, an operating surface 46 is arranged on the first web 34 and an operating surface 46 is arranged on the second web 36. The first web 34 and the second web 36 are connected to one another by means of a holding point 48 . The operating surfaces 46 and the holding point 48 are positioned in relation to one another in such a way that the applicator 32 can be used like a kind of tweezers.

the 3A until 3D show a mascara system 30 from different angles. the 3A shows the mascara system 30 from a side view. In the 3A the applicator 32 is fully inserted into the depot unit 1. Thus, the control surfaces 46 can form a form-fitting and/or non-positive connection with the receiving sections 50, so that a fluid- or suspension-sealing effect arises. Like in the 3A can be seen, a control surface 46 and a holding point 48 are arranged on the web 34 . The applicator 32 can also be pulled out of the depot unit 1 with the holding point 48 .

3B shows a plan view of the mascara system 30. As also in FIG 3B can be seen, the applicator 32 has been pushed completely into the depot unit 1 . The applicator 32 consists of a first web 34 and a second web 36. At the first end of the web 34 and the web 36, the holding point 48 is arranged. Furthermore, an operating surface 46 is arranged on the first web 34 and on the second web 36 .

3C shows a perspective view of the mascara system 30, consisting of the applicator 32 and the depot unit 1. The applicator 32 has a first and a second web 34,36, which can be made of spring steel or a plastic composite or other suitable materials, for example, so that the applicator 32 can be used like tweezers.

3D shows a mascara system in a front view, the depot unit 1 having no recesses on a front side. Thus, the depot unit 1 lies well in the hand and can also be used as a hand flatterer.

4 shows a perspective representation of the applicator 32. The applicator 32 has a first web 34 and a second web 36. A control surface 46 is arranged on the first web 34 and on the second web 36 in each case. The operating surface can be used in combination with the holding point 48 so that the applicator 32 can be used like tweezers or similar gripping tools. Furthermore, the control surfaces 46 can form a connection with the recesses 4, 6, so that they are closed in a fluid-tight or suspension-tight manner. The first web 34 is connected to the second web 36 at their first ends 38 . The holding point 48 is arranged at this connection point on the first end 38 of the applicator 32 . At the second end 40 of the first web 34 and the second web 36 a brush 42, 44 is arranged. A first brush 42 is arranged on the first web 34 and a second brush 44 on the second web 36 . An inner side 18 of the first brush 42 and the second brush 44 is arranged between the first web 34 and the second web 36 . At the second ends 40 of the first and second webs 34, 36, in a rest position, the brushes 42, 44 are spaced apart.

5 shows a schematic plan view of the applicator 32. The holding point 48, which connects the first web 34 to the second web 36, is arranged at the first end 38 of the applicator 32. Furthermore, an operating surface 46 is arranged on the first web 34 . The first web 34 is curved in the direction of its second end 40 . Based on the curvature of the first web 34, the first brush 42 is also designed to be curved, so that a contact surface with eyelashes can be increased.

6 shows a schematic front view of a tank 2. The tank 2 is divided into a first chamber 26, which can be connected to the applicator elements 8, 10 on both sides. In addition, the tank 2 can have a second chamber 28 which can also be connected to the application elements 8 , 10 . The first compartment 26 can store a first type of mascara and the second compartment 28 can store a second type of mascara.

7 shows a schematic sectional view of the mascara system 30. The mascara system 30 consists of a depot unit 1 and the applicator 32. As in FIG 7 shown, the applicator 32 has been fully inserted into the depot unit 1 . The first web 34 of the applicator 32 protrudes into the first recess 4 of the depot unit 1. The second web 36 of the applicator 32 protrudes into the second recess 6 of the depot unit 1. The tank 2 is arranged between the first recess 4 and the second recess 6. The depot unit 1 has a first application element 8 and a second application element 10, both of which are designed to convey mascara from the tank 2 to the brushes 42, 44 of the applicator 2. The first application element 8 is arranged in the first recess 4 and the second application element 10 is arranged in the second recess 6 . In this case, the first application element 8 has a first surface 14 which is perforated, for example, so that mascara, as in FIG 7 shown, can be promoted from the tank 2 to the first brush 42 of the first web 34. The second application element 10 also has a second surface 16 which is perforated, for example, so that mascara can be conveyed from the tank 2 onto the second brush 44 on the second web 36 or it can be wetted. The tank 2 may have a nozzle 24 adapted to refill the tank 2 with mascara. The brushes 42 , 44 are arranged at the second end 40 of the applicator 32 . The first web 32 and the second web 34 are connected to one another at their first end 38 . This can be done, for example, by means of the holding point 48, but they can also be connected directly to one another, for example by means of a welded or crimped connection.

8th shows an embodiment of a mascara system 30 with an applicator 32 with a single bar 34 in a sectional view and in a side view. Otherwise this applies to 7 said, with the difference that the applicator 32 has one arm, ie is formed with a web 34 instead of two arms with two risers 34, 36. Thus, when applying mascara, instead of using a pincer movement, mascara is applied to the eyelashes in the manner of a brush, with the strength of the application of mascara being variable from the top and bottom.

It should also be pointed out that the term unit is also to be understood broadly in the present case and includes both a one-part design and a multi-part design of the respective units, with the respective parts of a unit not having to be provided in one position, but also for parts can be provided on an object.

In addition, it should be noted that "comprising" and "having" do not exclude other elements and the indefinite articles "a" or "an" do not exclude a plurality. Furthermore, it should be noted that features that have been described with reference to one of the above embodiments, also in combination with other features of other embodiments described above may be used. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limitations.

Reference List

1

depot unit

2

tank

4

First recess

6

Second recess

8th

First order element

10

Second order element

12

eyelash brush

14

First face

16

second face

18

inside

20

First scraper

22

Second scraper

24

Support

26

First chamber

28

second chamber

30

mascara system

32

applicator

34

First jetty

36

Second jetty

38

First ending

40

second ending

42

First brush

44

Second brush

46

control surface

48

breakpoint

50

recording section

52

Paint brush

54

depot

QUOTES INCLUDED IN DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents cited by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent Literature Cited

• DE 202011109545 [0006]
• US20170231368 [0007]
• US8851775 [0008]
• US5007442 [0009]
• US20140099152 [0010]

Claims (25)

Depot unit (1) for storing and applying mascara, in particular fluids and suspensions, the depot unit (1) having a refillable or replaceable tank (2), the tank (2) being set up to store mascara, the depot unit ( 1) has at least one first recess (4), the depot unit (1) and/or the tank (2) having at least one first application element (8), the first application element (8) which is in the first recess (4) is arranged, is set up to promote mascara from the tank (2) to an eyelash brush (12). Depot unit according to claim 1 , characterized in that the depot unit (1) has at least one second recess (6) and the depot unit (1) and/or the tank (2) has at least one second application element (10), the tank (2) preferably being at least partially between the first cavity (4) and the second cavity (6), and wherein the second applicator element (10), which is disposed in the second cavity (6), is adapted to dispense mascara from the tank (2) onto an eyelash brush (12) to promote. Depot unit according to claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the first application element (8) and/or the second application element (10) each have a mascara-permeable surface (14, 16). Depot unit after claim 3 , characterized in that the surfaces (14, 16) are at least partially perforated, so that the mascara can be conveyed from the tank (2) onto the eyelash brush (12). Depot unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the depot unit (1) and the tank (2) are connected to one another in a non-positive and/or positive manner, so that the tank (2) is arranged in the depot unit (1) so that it can be replaced. Depot unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tank (2) has a socket (24) for refilling the tank (2). Depot unit according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tank (2) has at least two chambers (26, 28), each chamber (26, 28) storing one type of mascara, with, preferably adjustable, at least one outlet of each chamber (26, 28) is in fluid and/or suspension-conducting connection with the first application element (8) and/or the second application element (10) or each chamber (26, 28) has a first application element (8) and a second application element ( 10) has. Depot unit according to claim 7 , characterized in that the tank (2) is rotatably mounted in the depot unit (1). Depot unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one outer wall of the tank (2) and/or the depot unit (1) has a predetermined rigidity at least in regions, the outer wall being designed to be compressible by means of the predetermined rigidity, and mascara applied under pressure the first application element (8) and/or second application element (10) delivers. Depot unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first application element (8) and the second application element (10) are each set up to only wet an inside (18) of the eyelash brush (12) with mascara. Depot unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first recess (4) and/or the second recess (6) each have a wiper (20, 22) which are designed to remove at least part of the mascara from the eyelash brush ( 12) and are preferably designed to return stripped mascara to the tank (2). Storage unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first recess (4) and/or the second recess (6) are designed to center and/or orient the eyelash brush (12) to the storage unit (1). Depot unit according to any of the foregoing claims 2 until 12 , characterized in that the first application element (8) and the second application element (10), in particular substantially parallel, are arranged opposite one another. Mascara system (30) for applying mascara, in particular fluids and suspensions, the mascara system (30) having: - a depot unit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, - an applicator (32), wherein the applicator (32) has at least a first Web (34), wherein the first web (34) has a brush (42), wherein the first web (34) is set up to engage in the first recess (4) of the depot unit (1) so that the brush (42) is wetted with mascara. Mascara system (30) according to Claim 14 , characterized in that the applicator (32) has at least one second web (36), the first web (34) and the second web (36) being opposite one another, the first web (34) and the second web (36) connected to one another at their first ends (38), the first web (34) and the second web (36) each having a brush (42, 44) at their second end (40), and the first web (34) and the second web (36) are spaced apart from one another at their second ends (40), the first web (34) being set up to engage in the first recess (4) of the depot unit (1) and the second web (36) is set up to reach into the second recess (6) of the depot unit (1), so that the brushes (42, 44) are wetted with mascara. Mascara system (30) according to claim 15 , characterized in that the first web (34) and the second web (36) and/or their brushes (42, 44) are bent at their second ends (40) essentially parallel to one another, so that the brushes (42, 44) form the largest possible contact surface to human eyelashes. Mascara system (30) according to one of Claims 15 or 16 , characterized in that the first web (34) and the second web (36) each have an operating surface (46), wherein the first web (34) and the second web (36) at their first ends (38) a holding point ( 48) so that the applicator (32) can be operated like tweezers by means of the operating surface (46) and the holding point (48). Mascara system (30) according to one of Claims 14 until 17 , characterized in that the depot unit (1) has a receiving section (50) in an opening area of each recess (4, 6), it being possible for a positive and/or non-positive connection to be formed between the receiving sections (50) and the operating surfaces (46). , wherein the form-fitting and/or non-positive connection is designed to close the recesses at least in a fluid-tight and/or suspension-tight manner. Mascara system (30) according to any one of Claims 14 until 18 , characterized in that the brush (42) or the brushes (42, 44) are arranged interchangeably on the first web (34) and/or the second web (36), in particular by means of a positive and/or non-positive connection. Mascara system (30) according to one of Claims 15 until 19 , characterized in that the first bar (34) and the second bar (36) are adapted to develop a force by means of the brushes (42, 44) which is adapted to grip eyelashes by means of the brushes (42, 44). and to arch. Applicator (32) for applying mascara, having at least one bar (34) with a brush (42) and preferably a second bar (36) with a second brush (44), for use in a depot unit (1) according to one of Claims 1 until 13 for forming a mascara system (30) according to one of Claims 14 until 20 . Applicator (32) according to Claim 21 , characterized in that the brush (42) or the brushes (42, 44) are arranged interchangeably on the first web and/or the second web (36), in particular by means of a positive and/or non-positive connection. Applicator (32) according to Claim 21 or 22 , characterized in that the brush hairs of the two brushes (42, 44) intertwine with each other when the mascara is applied to eyelids as intended, in particular by an angle greater than 15°, preferably greater than 30°. Applicator (32) according to any one of Claims 21 until 23 , characterized in that the brush hairs of the at least one brush (42, 44) consist of silicone fibers, plastic fibers or natural fibers, in particular castor fibres. Use of a depot unit (1) according to one of Claims 1 until 13 for wetting eyelash brushes (12) with mascara.

Images