EP1545261A1 - Hair treatment applicator - Google Patents

Hair treatment applicator

Info

Publication number
EP1545261A1
EP1545261A1 EP03749767A EP03749767A EP1545261A1 EP 1545261 A1 EP1545261 A1 EP 1545261A1 EP 03749767 A EP03749767 A EP 03749767A EP 03749767 A EP03749767 A EP 03749767A EP 1545261 A1 EP1545261 A1 EP 1545261A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
hair
retaining
tines
applicator
handle
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP03749767A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1545261B1 (en
Inventor
Keith Colacioppo
Anne Marie Lenzi-Brangi
Gary Albaum
Kimberly A. Drosos
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Procter and Gamble Co
Original Assignee
Procter and Gamble Co
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Procter and Gamble Co filed Critical Procter and Gamble Co
Publication of EP1545261A1 publication Critical patent/EP1545261A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1545261B1 publication Critical patent/EP1545261B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D19/00—Devices for washing the hair or the scalp; Similar devices for colouring the hair
    • A45D19/0041—Processes for treating the hair of the scalp
    • A45D19/0066—Coloring or bleaching
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D19/00—Devices for washing the hair or the scalp; Similar devices for colouring the hair
    • A45D19/02—Hand-actuated implements, e.g. hand-actuated spray heads
    • A45D19/026—Hand-actuated implements, e.g. hand-actuated spray heads having brush or comb applicators
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A46—BRUSHWARE
    • A46B—BRUSHES
    • A46B2200/00—Brushes characterized by their functions, uses or applications
    • A46B2200/10—For human or animal care
    • A46B2200/1046—Brush used for applying cosmetics

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to hair treatment devices. More particularly, the present invention relates to hair treatment applicators and a method of applying hair treatment to hair.
  • Hair treatment or hair color applicators are known. Such hair treatment applicators allow a user to apply a hair product, such as a highlighter, to hair.
  • a hair product such as a highlighter
  • a highlighting comb is disclosed.
  • the comb has a plurality of tines that are secured to a spine, which is connected to a handle. The tines are disposed adjacent to each other along a straight line.
  • the user of the comb places the treatment material into retaining areas that are disposed between each of the respective adjacent tines and then passes the tines through the hair.
  • the disclosed comb suffers from the drawback of failing to provide a separation between the retaining areas through which hair may pass that will be untreated.
  • an applicator system has a handle with a brush, and a plurality of brush members extending from a first side of the brush.
  • the brush members are disposed along the first side of the brush in parallel and perpendicular rows.
  • a user places the hair product onto the brush members and passes the applicator along a lock of hair so that the brush members transfer the hair product to the hair.
  • the disclosed applicator suffers from the drawback of failing to allow for a separation between treated and untreated hair.
  • a hair treatment applicator that has a handle and a plurality of retaining structures connected to the handle. Each of the plurality of retaining structures is separated from each other of the plurality of retaining structures by a separation volume. The plurality of retaining structures holds the hair treatment.
  • the present invention is also a hair treatment applicator for applying hair treatment to hair that has a handle, a plurality of heads connected to the handle, and a retaining structure connected to each of the plurality of heads. Each head of the plurality of heads is separated from each other head of the plurality of heads by a separation volume. The retaining structures hold the hair treatment.
  • the present invention is also a hair treatment applicator for applying hair treatment to hair that has a handle, a first head connected to the handle with the first head having a plurality of first tines forming a first retaining volume, a second head connected to the handle with the second head having a plurality of second tines forming a second retaining volume, and a separation volume.
  • the first retaining volume and the second retaining volume are separated by the separation volume.
  • the first and second retaining volumes hold the hair treatment.
  • Fig. 1 is a top perspective view of the hair treatment applicator of the present invention
  • Fig. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the applicator of Fig. 1;
  • Fig. 3 is a bottom view of the applicator of Fig. 1;
  • Fig. 4 is a top view of the applicator of Fig. 1;
  • Fig. 5 is a side view of the applicator of Fig. 1;
  • Fig. 6 is a front view of the applicator of Fig. 1;
  • Fig. 7 is a rear view of the applicator of Fig. 1;
  • Fig. 8 is a bottom view of another embodiment of the hair treatment applicator of the present invention. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
  • Applicator 10 has a handle 20 and a head 50 connected to the handle.
  • handle 20 and head 50 are integrally molded or formed together.
  • Handle 20 is an elongated handle that a user grasps in his or her hand when passing head 50 along the user's hair, as will be discussed later in detail.
  • Handle 20 can be any type of handle known in the art that is secured to, or integrally molded or formed with, head 50.
  • Handle 20 is preferably ergonomically designed and contoured to maximize comfort and efficiency for a user due to the repetitive motion of applicator 10 as it passes along or strokes the user's hair.
  • head 50 has a bilaterally symmetrical shape and preferably has a heart-like shape.
  • Head 50 has a first comb 100 and a second comb 200.
  • applicator 10 has two combs 100, 200.
  • any number of combs can be used with the present invention.
  • Combs 100, 200 have bases 110, 210, respectively.
  • bases 110, 210 are circular in shape.
  • Comb 100 has a plurality of tines 120 extending from base 110 and comb 200 has a plurality of tines 220 extending from base 210.
  • tines 120 are four tines that are disposed along base 110 in a square pattern and tines 220 are four tines that are disposed along base 210 in a square pattern. More preferably, tines 120, 220 are perpendicular to bases 110, 210.
  • Tines 120, 220 are preferably substantially cylindrical in shape, having proximal ends 122, 222 and distal ends 124, 224. Proximal ends 122, 222 are connected to bases 110, 210, respectively. More preferably, tines 120, 220 have a frusto-conical shape or are tapered from proximal ends 122, 222 to distal ends 124, 224, respectively. Distal ends 124, 224 preferably have a flat end surface but other than flat end surfaces can be used, such as, for example, a pointed or sharply tapered end, to facilitate initially inserting tines 120, 220 through the section or lock of hair to be treated.
  • tines 120, 220 have a height of between about 1/4 inches to about 1.0 inches. More preferably, tines 120, 220 have a height of between about 3/8 inches to about 3/4 inches.
  • proximal ends 122, 222 have a diameter of between about 1/16 inches to about 5/16 inches. More preferably, proximal ends 122, 222 have a diameter of between about 1/8 inches to about 1/4 inches.
  • distal ends 124, 224 have a diameter of between about 1/16 inches to about 3/8 inches. More preferably, distal ends 124, 224 have a diameter of between about 1/16 inches to about 5/16 inches.
  • tines 120 and 220 While this embodiment has four tines 120 and four tines 220, alternative numbers of tines 120, 220 can also be used. Additionally, this embodiment arranges tines 120, 220 in square patterns along bases 110, 210 with each tine disposed in a corner of the square. Tines 120, 220 are disposed along bases 110, 210 such that the sides of the square pattern are either substantially parallel or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of handle 20. use, hair flow is between tines 120, 220 parallel to the longitudinal axis of handle 20. The square pattern of tines 120, 220 is preferred because it provides for a more even distribution of the hair treatment that is held between the tines.
  • the square pattern also facilitates the passage of hair through spaces 140, 240 between tines 120, 220, respectively, because the tines are evenly spaced apart and spaces 140, 240 are perpendicular to the hair flow (along the longitudinal axis of handle 20) so as to limit the resistance of the tines to the hair flow.
  • alternative patterns or shapes for the arrangement of tines 120, 220 along bases 110, 210 can also be used, including rectangular patterns.
  • spaces 140, 240 are between about 1/32 inches to about 5/16 inches. More preferably, spaces 140, 240 are between about 1/16 inches to about 3/16 inches.
  • Combs 100, 200 also have baffles 130, 230.
  • Baffles 130, 230 are preferably formed between the inner or inside pairs of tines 120, 220 such that the baffles are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of handle 20 and parallel to the path of hair flow through spaces 140, 240.
  • the height of baffles 130, 230 is between about 1/8 inches to about 1.0 inches. More preferably, the height of baffles 130, 230 is between about 1/4 inches to about 3/8 inches.
  • comb 100, base 110, tines 120 and baffle 130 form a retaining volume 150.
  • comb 200, base 210, tines 220 and baffle 230 form a retaining volume 250.
  • retaining volumes 150, 250 are filled with the hair treatment that is to be applied to the user's hair and the hair passes through the retaining volumes through spaces 140, 240.
  • Head 50 also has a separation volume 300 and a grip 400.
  • Separation volume 300 is formed by inner tines 120 of comb 100 and inner tines 220 of comb 200. Separation volume 300 provides for a path for hair that will not be treated with the hair product.
  • hair flow is through retaining volume 150, separation volume 300 and retaining volume 250.
  • Hair treatment is placed in both retaining volume 150 and retaining volume 250.
  • the middle or center strands of hair pass through separation volume 300 without being exposed to the hair treatment, while the outer strands of hair pass through retaining volume 150 and retaining volume 250 where the hair- treatment is applied. This provides for a separate and distinct set of treated hair or highlights over two distinctly separate sections of hair with a separate, untreated section of hair in between.
  • separation volume 300 has a width S.
  • width S is a minimum of about 1/4 inches. This minimum for width S allows for distinct, separate hair treatments or highlights with a distinct, separate untreated section in between.
  • Grip 400 of head 50 is an indent or recess that is formed in a center portion of the rear of the head. Grip 400 allows a user to position his or her finger in the grip for better handling and control of applicator 10.
  • baffles 130, 230 assist in retaining the hair treatment in retaining volumes 150, 250 so that the hair treatment does not enter separation volume 300. Baffles 130, 230 also prevent strands of hair that are passing through separation volume 300 from making contact with any hair treatment that is on the outer periphery of retaining volumes 150, 250. This provides for a more even and uniform application of the hair treatment to the hair, and straighter lines of separation between the treated and untreated sections of hair.
  • applicator 10 has first comb 100 and second comb 200 with separation volume 300 therebetween.
  • any number of a plurality of combs 100, 200 can be used in the present invention to form any number of separation volumes 300.
  • applicator 10 has two separate combs 100, 200 with separation volume 300 therebetween.
  • a single comb 100 can be used having tines 120 arranged in a plurality of square or other patterns, which form one or more separation volumes 300 therebetween, so that hair can flow through the one or more separation volumes to create a separate, distinct untreated section of hair between the treated sections of hair.
  • Applicator 10 is preferably injection molded as a single piece. Applicator 10 can be made from any moldable material, such as, for example, polyethylene or polypropylene.
  • Applicator 10' has a handle 20' and a head 50' connected to the handle.
  • Head 50' has combs 100', 200' having tines 120', 220'.
  • Tines 120', 220' are arranged in a square pattern with the sides of the square being either parallel or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of applicator 10'.
  • inner tines 120', 220' do not have any baffle or wall structures therebetween.
  • Combs 100', 200' have spaces 140', 240' that are both perpendicular to and parallel to the longitudinal axis of handle 20'.
  • the user could also pass the hair between tines 120, 220' along a path that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of handle 20' and create a single, wide highlight or hair treatment, as is done with contemporary applicators.
  • the hair treatment has a high enough viscosity that it remains in retaining volumes 150', 250' without the need for a baffle or other separating structure.
  • a hair treatment product with a minimum viscosity of about 8000 cps would remain in retaining volumes 150', 250' without the use of baffles or walls between combs 100', 200' and separation volume 300'.

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Dermatology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Brushes (AREA)
  • Cleaning And Drying Hair (AREA)

Abstract

The applicator (10) has a handle (20), a first head (100) connected to the handle, a second head (200) connected to the handle and a separation volume (300). The first head has a plurality of first tines (120) forming a first retaining volume (159) and the second head has a plurality of second tines forming a second retaining volume (250). The first and second retaining volumes are separated by the separation volume (300), and the first and second retaining volumes hold the hair treatment.

Description

HAIR TREATMENT APPLICATOR
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to hair treatment devices. More particularly, the present invention relates to hair treatment applicators and a method of applying hair treatment to hair.
Description of the Prior Art
Hair treatment or hair color applicators are known. Such hair treatment applicators allow a user to apply a hair product, such as a highlighter, to hair. hi U.S. Patent No. 6,079,420 to Musum, a highlighting comb is disclosed. The comb has a plurality of tines that are secured to a spine, which is connected to a handle. The tines are disposed adjacent to each other along a straight line. The user of the comb places the treatment material into retaining areas that are disposed between each of the respective adjacent tines and then passes the tines through the hair. The disclosed comb suffers from the drawback of failing to provide a separation between the retaining areas through which hair may pass that will be untreated.
In U.S. Patent No. 6,142,157 to de Laforcade, an applicator system is disclosed. The applicator has a handle with a brush, and a plurality of brush members extending from a first side of the brush. The brush members are disposed along the first side of the brush in parallel and perpendicular rows. A user places the hair product onto the brush members and passes the applicator along a lock of hair so that the brush members transfer the hair product to the hair. The disclosed applicator suffers from the drawback of failing to allow for a separation between treated and untreated hair.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the present invention to provide a hair treatment applicator that applies hair treatment to a plurality of sections of hair.
It is another object of the present invention to provide such an applicator that provides for a separate and distinct set of treated hair or highlights over two distinctly separate sections of hair.
It is yet another object of the present invention to provide such an applicator that provides a separate, untreated section of hair in between two treated sections of hair.
These and other objects and advantages of the present invention are provided by a hair treatment applicator that has a handle and a plurality of retaining structures connected to the handle. Each of the plurality of retaining structures is separated from each other of the plurality of retaining structures by a separation volume. The plurality of retaining structures holds the hair treatment.
The present invention is also a hair treatment applicator for applying hair treatment to hair that has a handle, a plurality of heads connected to the handle, and a retaining structure connected to each of the plurality of heads. Each head of the plurality of heads is separated from each other head of the plurality of heads by a separation volume. The retaining structures hold the hair treatment.
The present invention is also a hair treatment applicator for applying hair treatment to hair that has a handle, a first head connected to the handle with the first head having a plurality of first tines forming a first retaining volume, a second head connected to the handle with the second head having a plurality of second tines forming a second retaining volume, and a separation volume. The first retaining volume and the second retaining volume are separated by the separation volume. The first and second retaining volumes hold the hair treatment.
Other and further objects, advantages and features of the present invention will be understood by reference to the following.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Fig. 1 is a top perspective view of the hair treatment applicator of the present invention;
Fig. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the applicator of Fig. 1;
Fig. 3 is a bottom view of the applicator of Fig. 1; Fig. 4 is a top view of the applicator of Fig. 1;
Fig. 5 is a side view of the applicator of Fig. 1;
Fig. 6 is a front view of the applicator of Fig. 1;
Fig. 7 is a rear view of the applicator of Fig. 1; and
Fig. 8 is a bottom view of another embodiment of the hair treatment applicator of the present invention. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring to the drawings and, in particular, Figs. 1 and 2, there is shown an embodiment of a hair treatment applicator of the present invention generally represented by reference numeral 10. Applicator 10 has a handle 20 and a head 50 connected to the handle. Preferably, handle 20 and head 50 are integrally molded or formed together.
Handle 20 is an elongated handle that a user grasps in his or her hand when passing head 50 along the user's hair, as will be discussed later in detail. Handle 20 can be any type of handle known in the art that is secured to, or integrally molded or formed with, head 50. Handle 20 is preferably ergonomically designed and contoured to maximize comfort and efficiency for a user due to the repetitive motion of applicator 10 as it passes along or strokes the user's hair.
Referring to Figs. 1 through 7, head 50 has a bilaterally symmetrical shape and preferably has a heart-like shape. Head 50 has a first comb 100 and a second comb 200. In this embodiment, applicator 10 has two combs 100, 200. However, as will be discussed later in detail, any number of combs can be used with the present invention.
Combs 100, 200 have bases 110, 210, respectively. Preferably, bases 110, 210 are circular in shape. Comb 100 has a plurality of tines 120 extending from base 110 and comb 200 has a plurality of tines 220 extending from base 210. Preferably, tines 120 are four tines that are disposed along base 110 in a square pattern and tines 220 are four tines that are disposed along base 210 in a square pattern. More preferably, tines 120, 220 are perpendicular to bases 110, 210.
Tines 120, 220 are preferably substantially cylindrical in shape, having proximal ends 122, 222 and distal ends 124, 224. Proximal ends 122, 222 are connected to bases 110, 210, respectively. More preferably, tines 120, 220 have a frusto-conical shape or are tapered from proximal ends 122, 222 to distal ends 124, 224, respectively. Distal ends 124, 224 preferably have a flat end surface but other than flat end surfaces can be used, such as, for example, a pointed or sharply tapered end, to facilitate initially inserting tines 120, 220 through the section or lock of hair to be treated.
Preferably, tines 120, 220 have a height of between about 1/4 inches to about 1.0 inches. More preferably, tines 120, 220 have a height of between about 3/8 inches to about 3/4 inches. Preferably, proximal ends 122, 222 have a diameter of between about 1/16 inches to about 5/16 inches. More preferably, proximal ends 122, 222 have a diameter of between about 1/8 inches to about 1/4 inches. Preferably, distal ends 124, 224 have a diameter of between about 1/16 inches to about 3/8 inches. More preferably, distal ends 124, 224 have a diameter of between about 1/16 inches to about 5/16 inches.
While this embodiment has four tines 120 and four tines 220, alternative numbers of tines 120, 220 can also be used. Additionally, this embodiment arranges tines 120, 220 in square patterns along bases 110, 210 with each tine disposed in a corner of the square. Tines 120, 220 are disposed along bases 110, 210 such that the sides of the square pattern are either substantially parallel or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of handle 20. use, hair flow is between tines 120, 220 parallel to the longitudinal axis of handle 20. The square pattern of tines 120, 220 is preferred because it provides for a more even distribution of the hair treatment that is held between the tines. The square pattern also facilitates the passage of hair through spaces 140, 240 between tines 120, 220, respectively, because the tines are evenly spaced apart and spaces 140, 240 are perpendicular to the hair flow (along the longitudinal axis of handle 20) so as to limit the resistance of the tines to the hair flow. However, alternative patterns or shapes for the arrangement of tines 120, 220 along bases 110, 210 can also be used, including rectangular patterns. Preferably, spaces 140, 240 are between about 1/32 inches to about 5/16 inches. More preferably, spaces 140, 240 are between about 1/16 inches to about 3/16 inches.
Combs 100, 200 also have baffles 130, 230. Baffles 130, 230 are preferably formed between the inner or inside pairs of tines 120, 220 such that the baffles are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of handle 20 and parallel to the path of hair flow through spaces 140, 240. Preferably, the height of baffles 130, 230 is between about 1/8 inches to about 1.0 inches. More preferably, the height of baffles 130, 230 is between about 1/4 inches to about 3/8 inches.
In the preferred embodiment, comb 100, base 110, tines 120 and baffle 130 form a retaining volume 150. Similarly, comb 200, base 210, tines 220 and baffle 230 form a retaining volume 250. In use, retaining volumes 150, 250 are filled with the hair treatment that is to be applied to the user's hair and the hair passes through the retaining volumes through spaces 140, 240.
Head 50 also has a separation volume 300 and a grip 400. Separation volume 300 is formed by inner tines 120 of comb 100 and inner tines 220 of comb 200. Separation volume 300 provides for a path for hair that will not be treated with the hair product. In use, hair flow is through retaining volume 150, separation volume 300 and retaining volume 250. Hair treatment is placed in both retaining volume 150 and retaining volume 250. The middle or center strands of hair pass through separation volume 300 without being exposed to the hair treatment, while the outer strands of hair pass through retaining volume 150 and retaining volume 250 where the hair- treatment is applied. This provides for a separate and distinct set of treated hair or highlights over two distinctly separate sections of hair with a separate, untreated section of hair in between.
Referring to Figs. 6 and 7, separation volume 300 has a width S. Preferably, width S is a minimum of about 1/4 inches. This minimum for width S allows for distinct, separate hair treatments or highlights with a distinct, separate untreated section in between.
Previous applicators suffer from the drawback of applying the hair product in a single, wide stripe. At the time of application, it appears to the user of such an applicator that there are multiple stripes because the strands of hair are temporarily being separated by the tines or teeth of the applicator, as it passes through the hair.
Grip 400 of head 50 is an indent or recess that is formed in a center portion of the rear of the head. Grip 400 allows a user to position his or her finger in the grip for better handling and control of applicator 10.
In the preferred embodiment, baffles 130, 230 assist in retaining the hair treatment in retaining volumes 150, 250 so that the hair treatment does not enter separation volume 300. Baffles 130, 230 also prevent strands of hair that are passing through separation volume 300 from making contact with any hair treatment that is on the outer periphery of retaining volumes 150, 250. This provides for a more even and uniform application of the hair treatment to the hair, and straighter lines of separation between the treated and untreated sections of hair.
In the preferred embodiment, applicator 10 has first comb 100 and second comb 200 with separation volume 300 therebetween. However, any number of a plurality of combs 100, 200 can be used in the present invention to form any number of separation volumes 300. Additionally, applicator 10 has two separate combs 100, 200 with separation volume 300 therebetween. Alternatively, a single comb 100 can be used having tines 120 arranged in a plurality of square or other patterns, which form one or more separation volumes 300 therebetween, so that hair can flow through the one or more separation volumes to create a separate, distinct untreated section of hair between the treated sections of hair.
Applicator 10 is preferably injection molded as a single piece. Applicator 10 can be made from any moldable material, such as, for example, polyethylene or polypropylene.
Referring to Fig. 8, there is shown an alternative embodiment of a hair treatment applicator of the present invention generally represented by reference numeral 10'. Applicator 10' has a handle 20' and a head 50' connected to the handle. Head 50' has combs 100', 200' having tines 120', 220'. Tines 120', 220' are arranged in a square pattern with the sides of the square being either parallel or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of applicator 10'. In the alternative embodiment, inner tines 120', 220' do not have any baffle or wall structures therebetween. Combs 100', 200' have spaces 140', 240' that are both perpendicular to and parallel to the longitudinal axis of handle 20'. This allows a user to pass hair between tines 120, 220' along a path that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of handle 20' and create separate, distinct highlights or hair treatments. The user could also pass the hair between tines 120, 220' along a path that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of handle 20' and create a single, wide highlight or hair treatment, as is done with contemporary applicators.
In this alternative embodiment, the hair treatment has a high enough viscosity that it remains in retaining volumes 150', 250' without the need for a baffle or other separating structure. Preferably, a hair treatment product with a minimum viscosity of about 8000 cps would remain in retaining volumes 150', 250' without the use of baffles or walls between combs 100', 200' and separation volume 300'.
The present invention having been thus described with particular reference to the preferred forms thereof, it will be obvious that various changes and modifications may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined herein.
All documents cited in the Detailed Description of the Invention are, in relevant part, incorporated herein by reference; the citation of any document is not to be construed as an admission that it is prior art with respect to the present invention.
While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.
All documents cited in the Detailed Description of the Invention are, are, in relevant part, incorporated herein by reference; the citation of any document is not to be construed as an admission that it is prior art with respect to the present invention.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:
1. A hair treatment applicator for applying a hair treatment to hair, the applicator comprising: a handle; and a plurality of retaining structures connected to said handle, wherein each of said plurality of retaining structures is separated from each other of said plurality of retaining structures by a separation volume, and wherein said plurality of retaining structures hold the hair treatment.
2. A hair treatment applicator for applying a hair treatment to hair, the applicator comprising: a handle; a plurality of heads being connected to said handle; and a retaining structure being connected to each of said plurality of heads, wherein each head of said plurality of heads is separated from each other head of said plurality of heads by a separation volume, and wherein said retaining structure holds the hair treatment.
3. A hair treatment applicator for applying a hair treatment to hair, the applicator comprising: a handle; a first head being connected to said handle, said first head having a plurality of first tines forming a first retaining volume; a second head being connected to said handle, said second head having a plurality of second tines forming a second retaining volume; and a separation volume, wherein said first retaining volume and said second retaining volume are separated by said separation volume, and wherein said first and second retaining volumes hold the hair treatment.
EP03749767.4A 2002-10-04 2003-09-20 Hair treatment applicator Expired - Lifetime EP1545261B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US41616302P 2002-10-04 2002-10-04
US29/168,576 USD490564S1 (en) 2002-10-04 2002-10-04 Applicator
US168576 2002-10-04
US416163P 2002-10-04
PCT/US2003/029476 WO2004032667A1 (en) 2002-10-04 2003-09-20 Hair treatment applicator

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1545261A1 true EP1545261A1 (en) 2005-06-29
EP1545261B1 EP1545261B1 (en) 2014-12-03

Family

ID=32095601

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP03749767.4A Expired - Lifetime EP1545261B1 (en) 2002-10-04 2003-09-20 Hair treatment applicator

Country Status (9)

Country Link
US (2) USD490564S1 (en)
EP (1) EP1545261B1 (en)
JP (1) JP2006500185A (en)
CN (1) CN1681412A (en)
AU (1) AU2003267294A1 (en)
BR (1) BR0315048A (en)
CA (1) CA2498464C (en)
MX (1) MXPA05002997A (en)
WO (1) WO2004032667A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (25)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20050054981A1 (en) * 2003-09-04 2005-03-10 Romano Carlo Luca Auxiliary device for attenuating pain of injections, traumas, small lesions, hair removing operations, and inflammation conditions
US7475688B2 (en) * 2003-09-25 2009-01-13 The Procter & Gamble Company Hair treatment applicator
USD518232S1 (en) * 2003-09-25 2006-03-28 The Procter & Gamble Company Applicator
USD530924S1 (en) * 2004-06-16 2006-10-31 The Procter & Gamble Company Implement handle
USD574156S1 (en) * 2004-06-16 2008-08-05 The Procter & Gamble Company Implement
US20060283474A1 (en) * 2005-06-17 2006-12-21 Anderson Paul M Applicator for hair products
USD566892S1 (en) 2005-06-17 2008-04-15 Revlon Consumer Products Corporation Cosmetic applicator
USD536826S1 (en) * 2005-06-22 2007-02-13 The Procter & Gamble Company Hair treatment applicator
EP1736073B1 (en) * 2005-06-22 2009-08-12 The Procter & Gamble Company Hair treatment applicator
US20070000070A1 (en) * 2005-06-30 2007-01-04 Vena Lou Ann C Method and kit for applying lowlights to hair
AU2006338592A1 (en) * 2006-02-22 2007-08-30 The Procter & Gamble Company Hair treatment applicator
FR2949185B1 (en) * 2009-08-18 2012-11-16 Oreal COSMETIC PRODUCT APPLICATOR, HEAD AND DEVICE THEREFOR.
EP2898877A1 (en) * 2011-09-12 2015-07-29 The Procter and Gamble Company Method for colouring hair
DE202014001947U1 (en) * 2014-02-28 2014-03-20 L'oreal Hair applicator brush for creating highlights
USD859850S1 (en) 2016-05-05 2019-09-17 Tangle Teezer Limited Hair brush
USD860655S1 (en) 2016-05-05 2019-09-24 Tangle Teezer Limited Part of hair brush
TWD184955S (en) 2016-05-05 2017-08-11 糾結立順有限公司 Hairbrush (part of)
USD843115S1 (en) 2017-11-02 2019-03-19 Conair Corporation Hair brush
US11000116B2 (en) 2017-11-02 2021-05-11 Conair Corporation Hair brush
US20190246763A1 (en) * 2018-02-12 2019-08-15 Madison Reed, Inc. Highlight Applicator
USD884963S1 (en) * 2018-03-07 2020-05-19 Plateau Ridge, LLC Applicator
FR3085828B1 (en) 2018-09-14 2021-10-29 Oreal APPLICATOR FOR THE APPLICATION OF A HAIR PRODUCT, IN PARTICULAR A COSMETIC COLORING OR DECOLORATION PRODUCT
USD946284S1 (en) * 2020-06-08 2022-03-22 Frederick Sager Dental appliance
USD983533S1 (en) * 2021-04-29 2023-04-18 Frederick C. Sager, IV Dental appliance
USD1089826S1 (en) * 2024-03-15 2025-08-19 Victor Dunn Lotion and moisturizer applicator

Family Cites Families (36)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1161719A (en) * 1915-01-13 1915-11-23 William R Norton Massage-glove.
US1342994A (en) * 1920-03-11 1920-06-08 Fitzgerald Mfg Co Bath-spray
US2075964A (en) * 1935-04-27 1937-04-06 Alfred J Teigeler Rubber grooming device
US2260100A (en) * 1940-05-27 1941-10-21 Deitrich Fountain applicator
US2480023A (en) * 1948-05-28 1949-08-23 Knickerbocker Rubber Company Massage brush
US3110918A (en) 1961-06-02 1963-11-19 Jr Charles G Tate Adjustable toothbrush
US3353721A (en) 1966-09-06 1967-11-21 Jefferson C Love Multi-use applicator
US3677264A (en) 1970-08-27 1972-07-18 Edwin Brockman Toothbrush
US4211247A (en) * 1974-06-21 1980-07-08 Shila Morganroth Devices for use in selectively altering hair color
US4237822A (en) * 1979-01-08 1980-12-09 Kaiser Leroy E Jr Animal medication brush
IT1147216B (en) * 1980-05-17 1986-11-19 Hans Fuhs DEVICE TO DYE HAIR
US4427001A (en) * 1980-11-28 1984-01-24 Mercedes Kiefer Electrical facial massage apparatus
DE3221410C2 (en) * 1982-06-05 1988-08-18 Müller, Siegfried, 7737 Bad Dürrheim Paint application comb
US4492223A (en) 1982-06-30 1985-01-08 Jack B. Hosid Fluid dispensing massage device
US4605026A (en) * 1983-04-06 1986-08-12 Nolin Rosemary D Comb for dispensing treatment solution to hair
USD290526S (en) * 1985-02-11 1987-06-23 Vallis Joseph H Cream applicator
FR2645725A1 (en) * 1989-04-17 1990-10-19 Lebolloc H Yves Albert Notched paintbrush
US5062435A (en) * 1989-07-31 1991-11-05 Hapyo Yugen Kaisha Hair comb with absorbant pad
USD331446S (en) * 1991-03-27 1992-12-01 Brita (Canada) Inc. Water filter
US5311887A (en) * 1992-12-29 1994-05-17 Ramsey Floyd W Comb for holding a liquid and dispensing the liquid through comb teeth
US5337765A (en) * 1993-02-04 1994-08-16 Wong Hilda C Modular brush for user-selected hair streaking
US5561856A (en) * 1994-08-22 1996-10-08 Pesco; Mary Palmar type anterior thumb support for use in a glove and a glove incorporating the same
USD394730S (en) 1994-12-22 1998-05-26 Bristol-Myers Squibb Company Hair treatment applicator
US5947130A (en) 1997-05-12 1999-09-07 Infinite Concepts, Llc Highlighting comb
US6245031B1 (en) * 1997-12-29 2001-06-12 Roger C. Pearson Massage system
FR2774570B1 (en) 1998-02-12 2000-05-12 Oreal HAIR COLOR APPLICATOR, AND HAIR COLOR KIT
CA2234295A1 (en) 1998-04-07 1999-10-07 Fernando P. Paglericcio Fluid dispensing device
US6078420A (en) * 1998-06-24 2000-06-20 Optical Engineering, Inc. Hole-coupled laser scanning system
FR2782614B1 (en) * 1998-09-01 2000-11-24 Michel Laporte DEVICE FOR APPLYING A PRODUCT TO HAIR, PARTICULARLY A COLORING PRODUCT
US6500135B2 (en) * 1998-12-31 2002-12-31 Homedics, Inc. Percussive massager
US6165145A (en) * 1999-02-04 2000-12-26 Wellness Innovations Corp. Body massager
FR2790925B1 (en) * 1999-03-15 2001-06-01 Oreal DEVICE FOR APPLYING A COLORING PRODUCT TO WICKS, AND HAIR COLORING KIT
DE19922092A1 (en) * 1999-05-17 2000-11-30 Henkel Kgaa Application device for coloring highlights
USD426916S (en) 1999-09-28 2000-06-20 Ebert Viola R Long handled lotion applier
USD442331S1 (en) 2000-04-27 2001-05-15 New Basics, Inc. Hair dye applicator
USD452044S1 (en) 2000-10-16 2001-12-11 U.S. Philips Corporation Electric hair coloring device

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See references of WO2004032667A1 *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU2003267294A1 (en) 2004-05-04
WO2004032667A1 (en) 2004-04-22
USD490564S1 (en) 2004-05-25
BR0315048A (en) 2005-08-16
CA2498464A1 (en) 2004-04-22
US20040065338A1 (en) 2004-04-08
CN1681412A (en) 2005-10-12
JP2006500185A (en) 2006-01-05
EP1545261B1 (en) 2014-12-03
CA2498464C (en) 2010-12-07
MXPA05002997A (en) 2005-06-22

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
CA2498464C (en) Hair treatment applicator
EP3160298B1 (en) Hair brush
US6739016B2 (en) Hairbrush
EP4201254B1 (en) Backcombing brush
US7234472B2 (en) Comb capable of being used to separate locks of hair
WO2007089525A2 (en) Apparatus and methods for manipulating spreadable materials
US20050016557A1 (en) Hair brush
US4917129A (en) Tease comb/hair pick
US7156102B2 (en) Comb intended to facilitate application of a cosmetic product to locks of hair
US20050121049A1 (en) Hair brush with a removable ceramic hair pick
US5518011A (en) Hair braiding device and method
JP2018102724A (en) Hair cosmetic applicator
CN215837551U (en) Comb device
US11064782B2 (en) Application system for applying a product to hair
US20190246763A1 (en) Highlight Applicator
US7134439B2 (en) Comb and method for isolating at least one lock of hair
US12465128B1 (en) Multi purpose tool to detangle groom and style hair
JP2005515005A (en) Comb or hairbrush and hair styling method
HK40086451B (en) Backcombing brush
FI13085Y1 (en) Multi-function hair device
JPH0718632U (en) Hair dyeing brush

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20050318

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IT LI LU MC NL PT RO SE SI SK TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: AL LT LV MK

DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: HK

Ref legal event code: DE

Ref document number: 1079671

Country of ref document: HK

RIN1 Information on inventor provided before grant (corrected)

Inventor name: DROSOS, KIMBERLY, A.

Inventor name: COLACIOPPO, KEITH

Inventor name: ALBAUM, GARY

Inventor name: LENZI-BRANGI, ANNE, MARIE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: HK

Ref legal event code: WD

Ref document number: 1079671

Country of ref document: HK

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20140813

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IT LI LU MC NL PT RO SE SI SK TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 698829

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20141215

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 60347066

Country of ref document: DE

Effective date: 20150115

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: VDEP

Effective date: 20141203

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 698829

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20141203

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20141203

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20141203

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20141203

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20141203

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20141203

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20141203

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150304

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20141203

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20141203

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150403

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20141203

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20141203

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 13

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 60347066

Country of ref document: DE

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20141203

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20150904

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20141203

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20141203

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150920

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20141203

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20141203

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: MM4A

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20150930

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20150920

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20150930

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 14

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20030920

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20141203

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20141203

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 15

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 16

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: 732E

Free format text: REGISTERED BETWEEN 20210610 AND 20210616

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: 732E

Free format text: REGISTERED BETWEEN 20210617 AND 20210623

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R081

Ref document number: 60347066

Country of ref document: DE

Owner name: WELLA OPERATIONS US, LLC, CALABASAS, US

Free format text: FORMER OWNER: THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY, CINCINNATI, OH, US

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R081

Ref document number: 60347066

Country of ref document: DE

Owner name: WELLA OPERATIONS US, LLC, CALABASAS, US

Free format text: FORMER OWNER: THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY, CINCINNATI, OHIO, US

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20220920

Year of fee payment: 20

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20220920

Year of fee payment: 20

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20220922

Year of fee payment: 20

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R071

Ref document number: 60347066

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: PE20

Expiry date: 20230919

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF EXPIRATION OF PROTECTION

Effective date: 20230919