EP2878223A1 - Cosmetic applicator and cosmetic container - Google Patents

Abstract

In particular, the present invention relates to a cosmetic applicator (5, 17, 18, 19) for applying a cosmetic substance. The cosmetic applicator comprises an applicator element (3) for applying the cosmetic substance, and a holding body (6) and at least two wire-like holding elements (7, 20), which at their first end (8) with the holding body, and at the second end (9) are coupled to the applicator element (3), wherein at least one of the holding elements (7, 20) with the holding body 6) is coupled such that it in the longitudinal direction relative to the holding body (6) is displaceable such that position by a relative displacement , Shape and / or orientation of the applicator element (3) is variable.

Description

The invention particularly relates to a cosmetic applicator and a cosmetic container.

Cosmetic applicators and corresponding cosmetic containers are known in various designs. For example, refer to the FR 2,872,006 B1 . US 2012/0195672 A1 and EP 2 084 986 A2 in which the applicator element is designed to be movable and / or shape-changeable for applying a cosmetic substance.

However, it would be desirable if the variety of shapes and variability of an applicator element of a cosmetic applicator could be further increased in order to be able to further improve and simplify the application of the cosmetic, for example mascara, lip gloss and others.

In that regard, it is an object of the invention to provide a cosmetic applicator and a cosmetic container, in particular for mascara, lip gloss and others, which offers a greater variety of application possibilities and application variants, and in particular is compatible with conventional packaging systems and sizes.

This object is achieved in particular by the features of claims 1 and 15. Embodiments result in particular from the dependent claims and described below, in particular preferred, embodiments.

According to claim 1, a cosmetic applicator for applying a cosmetic substance is provided which comprises an applicator element, a holding body and at least two wire-like holding elements. The cosmetic applicator may in particular comprise exactly two or exactly three retaining elements. In particular, two holding elements may be present, which may be coupled with ends of the applicator element facing away from one another. Further holding elements can be coupled, for example, with points between the ends of the applicator element facing away from one another. In particular, by providing a plurality of holding elements and coupling them with different locations along the applicator element, the possibilities for variation of the shape of the applicator element can be expanded.

The applicator element is designed for applying the cosmetic substance. In particular, the applicator element may be a brush-like applicator element. In particular in this case the applicator element may comprise a central core and, in particular, radially extending bristles, brushes or hair and the like thereof.

The central core can in particular be flexible, in particular flexibly flexible. Preferred materials for the soul are in particular plastic, metal or plastic-metal composites. Suitable materials for the bristles are in particular plastic, metal, plastic-metal composites, natural hair.

In addition to brush-like applicator elements, applicator elements which include a flocked applicator element, e.g. an application element flocked with plastic fibers, a coated applicator element, an applicator element formed of rubber, textile, wire and textile, sponge and / or chamfers. The applicator may also be stamped, i. be formed like a stamp.

The holding elements can in particular be holding and positioning elements which are designed to hold the applicator element in a respective desired position, shape and / or orientation to support and / or position.

The wire-like holding elements are, according to approximately the properties of a wire, preferably laterally bendable, and preferably in the longitudinal direction tensile and / or pressure-resistant. In other words, the holding elements in the longitudinal direction of such tension and pressure or shear stable, and designed to be bendable in the transverse direction so that the applicator element in shape, position and / or orientation is variable. The wire-like holding elements may in particular be wires, for example metal, plastic or composites.

According to the proposed cosmetic applicator, the at least two holding elements, which can also assume a function as positioning elements, are coupled at their first end to the holding body. Furthermore, the at least two holding elements are coupled at their second end to the applicator element, in particular to outer ends of the applicator element. At least one of the retaining elements can be implemented in a stationary manner, in particular integrated on or in the retaining element or a guide sleeve thereof, and be designed as a flexible or rigid positioning element.

In the proposed cosmetic applicator, the holding elements between the first and second ends preferably extend outside the applicator element in each case. That the retaining elements are preferably not guided in each case by the applicator element in the regions between the first and second ends, but outside the applicator element.

The term "coupled" with regard to holding elements and holding body should mean in particular that the holding elements are suitably connected, fixed, mounted and / or formed integrally with corresponding Kontatktstellen. It should be noted in particular that at least one holding element and the applicator element and / or at least one holding element with the holding body or an element of the holding body, for example a guide sleeve, may be integrally formed. At transition points between respective elements, the bending stiffness can be reduced, so that the respective elements are bendable or bendable relative to each other. A holding element may be formed, for example, as an integrated element of a guide sleeve and / or as a kind of projection on the guide sleeve, wherein the guide sleeve may in turn be connected or coupled to the holding body. One of the holding elements, in particular a stationary and / or positionally fixed holding element can also be designed in the form of a connection point located outside the applicator element or a connection point or connecting element located outside the applicator element between the applicator element and the holding body and / or guide sleeve.

In the case of the cosmetic applicator proposed here, it is further provided that at least one of the holding elements is coupled to the holding body in such a way that it can be displaced in the longitudinal direction relative to the holding body in such a way that position, shape, contour and / or relative displacement of the wire-like holding element or orientation of the applicator element is variable and / or adjustable.

The holding body may in particular be made of a dimensionally stable plastic material, preferably in injection molding technology. Preferably, the holding body is cylindrical. However, other shapes and cross sections are possible. The holding body may in particular also be formed from an axially open-sided base body with a cladding attached thereto.

The holding elements may be made of a flexible, preferably bendable, material, wherein the holding elements are preferably designed tensile and / or pressure stable in the longitudinal direction, so that by a caused by longitudinal traction or thrust contour, shape, position and / or orientation of Applikatorelements can be changed.

The use of the proposed wire-like holding elements, which in combination form a kind of variable wire-like frame, in particular wire frame, and of which at least one is designed to change position, position and / or orientation of the applicator element by longitudinal displacement, allow a particularly diverse and diversified Variation of shape, orientation and contour of the applicator, and thus allow extended application possibilities of cosmetic substances.

In particular, the bendability in the lateral direction and the tensile and compressive stability in the longitudinal direction of the holding elements allow a wide variation possibility of shape, orientation and contour of the applicator element.

The contour and shape of the applicator can be changed in particular by acting on it tensile and / or compressive forces of the holding elements when the applicator element is designed as such bendable. Preferably, the applicator element, at least between points of attack of the holding elements, formed bendable. More preferably, the applicator element is tensile and pressure stable in the longitudinal direction.

Tension and pressure stability, intended in particular mean that no significant change in length is caused by acting tensile and / or compressive forces. The same applies to the holding elements. In this case, tensile and / or compressive forces should be understood as meaning, in particular, forces that lie within the scope of cosmetic utensils in the usual scope.

In embodiments with at least two holding elements, these can be designed in particular such that the holding elements are individually, ie selectively, designed to be displaceable in their longitudinal direction. In embodiments, it can also be provided that the holding elements, for example two or three holding elements, can be displaced only together in the longitudinal direction, at least over a predetermined displacement, in variants over the entire displacement path. However, individual holding elements can also be fixed in place, that is, they can not be designed to be displaceable.

In embodiments, it can be provided that at least two of the holding elements are coupled to the holding body in such a way that they are displaceable relative to one another in their longitudinal direction such that the position, shape and / or orientation of the applicator element can be changed or adjusted by a relative displacement. By a Relativverschiebbarkeit the holding elements to each other, the possibilities of variation for shape, orientation and contour of the applicator can be extended with a suitable choice of holding elements.

In embodiments, a first end of at least one holding element can be coupled linearly displaceable with a linear sliding mechanism of the holding body. By providing a linear slide mechanism, a longitudinal displacement of the support member can be relatively easily performed by the user.

For each longitudinally displaceable holding element, a separate linear sliding mechanism may be present, so that the respective holding elements can be displaced and positioned independently of one another.

However, it is also possible in variants that two or more of the holding elements are coupled to a single linear sliding mechanism, so that the actuation of the linear sliding mechanism causes a simultaneous displacement of the two or more holding elements.

In a coupling of the linear displacement of two or more holding elements while the degrees of freedom for setting or variation of the applicator element are limited. However, with appropriate coupling, it may be possible for the applicator element to assume or pass through predetermined shapes or contours, in particular predetermined standard shapes, during longitudinal movement of the coupled holding elements. The specification of shapes and contours by coupling retaining elements can in particular lead to a simplified handling of the cosmetic applicator.

The coupling between two or more retaining elements for joint or separate longitudinal displacement can be fixed. However, it is also possible that two or more holding elements can be coupled together by means of corresponding coupling elements on the linear sliding mechanisms or that the coupling between two or more holding elements can be canceled again. The coupling elements may in particular be designed such that coupling and decoupling of the holding elements can be performed by the user.

In embodiments, the linear sliding mechanism for a holding element may comprise a sliding element manually operable from an outside of the holding body. In this way, a comparatively simple handling and adjustment of the longitudinal position of the holding elements and thus the shape of the applicator element by the user is possible in particular.

The sliding element may for example be guided in a slot or a longitudinal groove in the holding body.

Preferably, a pin or mandrel projecting on the sliding element passes through the slot. The pin or mandrel may be designed to secure the sliding element on the holding body.

Furthermore, the pin or mandrel can be designed to fasten one or more holding elements guided at least partially in the holding body, such that a longitudinal movement of the sliding element is converted into a longitudinal displacement of the holding element (s).

If several holding elements are attached to the same sliding element, they are coupled with respect to the longitudinal displacement and can only be moved together. For non-coupled holding elements, a separate linear sliding mechanism and sliding element can be present in each case.

In embodiments, the holding body may further comprise a latching device or a latching mechanism which is / is designed such that the sliding element, in particular at predetermined positions along the holding body, can be latched. In that regard, the locking device causes a fixation of the holding elements, and may also be referred to as a fixing device.

A latching or fixing and thus fixing the longitudinal position of the holding elements is synonymous with a fixation of the respectively set shape and contour of the applicator element and facilitates the application of cosmetic substances.

The specification of defined Einrastmöglichkeiten along the displacement is not mandatory, but can be implemented in variants. For predetermined latching possibilities, preferred or standardized shapes and / or contours for the applicator element can be specified. Predetermined Einrastmöglichkeiten can be realized for example by locking grooves and locking lugs.

For free fixation of a sliding element, i. without predetermined locking positions, for example, a spring-loaded clamping of the sliding elements or other mechanisms can be used.

In embodiments of the cosmetic applicator, at least one first end of one of the holding elements can be connected in a fixed position to the holding body. Such holding elements are thus not longitudinally displaceable, and merely serve to hold the applicator element.

For example, in one embodiment, the applicator be coupled at its two opposite ends, each with a holding element, wherein one of the holding elements is fixedly connected to the holding body or coupled to the holding body or formed thereon guide sleeve, and wherein the other holding member longitudinally displaceable with the Holding body is coupled. In this embodiment, the shape, orientation and contour of the applicator element can be adjusted by corresponding displacement of the one longitudinally displaceable holding element.

The latter embodiment can be achieved in particular in embodiments in which exactly two holding elements are present, and in which one of the holding elements fixed in position on the holding body or on the guide sleeve, and the other holding member is longitudinally displaceable coupled to the holding body.

A cosmetics applicator with only two wire-like holding elements, one of which is fixed, and the other is longitudinally displaceable, can be structurally relatively easily implemented, and also allows a comparatively simple handling. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a dimensionally stable, in particular rigid, applicator can be used.

In other embodiments, it may be provided that exactly two retaining elements are present, which are both coupled longitudinally displaceable with the holding body. In this embodiment variant, the two holding elements can either be designed to be longitudinally displaceable in each case, or the two holding elements can be coupled with respect to the longitudinal displacement, so that they can be displaced, for example, only together.

In further embodiments, the cosmetic applicator comprises exactly three wire-like holding elements, wherein at least two, preferably three, of the holding elements are longitudinally displaceably coupled to the holding body.

In particular, in the aforementioned embodiments, two of the retaining elements can be coupled to ends of the applicator element which are remote from one another, and the third retaining element can engage approximately centrally on the applicator element. In particular, the center-engaging retaining element can be made rigid, so that the center of the applicator element relative to Holding body can be firmly positioned. By means of the two further holding elements, which are preferably designed to be flexible, different shapes and contours of the applicator element can be adjusted by longitudinal displacement at a predetermined position of the center of the applicator element.

With a centrally acting holding element, it is possible, for example, to adjust convex, concave or combined convex-concave curvatures, pointed or flat contours, as needed, on the applicator element. This presupposes, in particular, that the applicator element is designed and designed to be bendable as such or at least at predetermined locations.

As already indicated above may be provided in embodiments that longitudinally displaceably coupled to the holding body holding elements are at least along a first displacement independently displaced. In particular, it is therefore possible that in the above embodiment, the centrally engaging, and the end engaging retaining elements are independently displaceable. Furthermore, it is possible for one of the holding elements to be stationary and / or fixed in a latchable manner.

If more than three holding elements are present, but also in embodiments with exactly three holding elements, it is possible for the holding element or elements to engage at any, even eccentric, locations between the ends of the applicator element.

Furthermore, in the case of two, more than two, three or more than three holding elements, it is possible for all the holding elements to be designed to be displaceable. In variants, at least one holding element can be formed fixed in position, wherein at least one holding element is designed to be displaceable.

The length of the first displacement path can be different from the length of the entire displacement path of a holding element, ie it is not absolutely necessary that the holding elements can be displaced independently of each other along the entire displacement path. However, it can be in Variants be that the holding elements along their entire displacement paths are independently displaced.

Due to the independent displaceability of the holding elements, as already mentioned, a broader spectrum for shape, contour and orientation of the applicator element can be achieved.

In embodiments, two or more longitudinally displaceably coupled to the holding body holding elements may be coupled together such that a longitudinal displacement of at least one of the holding elements along a second displacement path causes a longitudinal displacement of at least one further holding element.

The length of the second displacement path can be different from the length of the entire displacement path of the corresponding holding elements. However, it is also possible for two or more holding elements to be coupled together along the entire length of the displacement path.

It is possible in particular that two or more holding elements along their displacement in a first section can be moved independently, and in a second section can only be moved together, so are coupled together. In this case, the first and second displacement paths form different sections of the entire displacement path of the respective holding elements.

A coupling of two or more of the holding elements can be implemented for example by an active mechanical coupling of any sliding elements.

It is also possible that a coupling of the longitudinal displacement of a plurality of holding elements is achieved in that when moving one of the holding elements in or in the second displacement area a locking or latching, set by which the further coupled holding elements on the holding body are, solved or canceled, so that the other holding elements can move freely. In particular, in this case, a coupled longitudinal displacement can be achieved at least partially via the mechanical connection of the holding elements with the applicator element.

A coupling of two or more of the holding elements may be useful, in particular, if in certain positions and displacement positions of one of the holding elements, for example in end positions, predetermined shapes and / or contours of the applicator element are to be achieved.

In embodiments of the cosmetic applicator, the holding body may comprise a guide sleeve, in which at least one of the wire-like holding elements is guided or extends at least in sections.

The guide sleeve represents, in particular, a kind of positive guidance, in the manner of a Bowden cable. The regions of the holding elements facing away from the applicator element are preferably positively guided by the guide sleeve. At the outlet opening of the guide sleeve, which relative to the holding body preferably has a reduced diameter, bending and pivot points of the holding elements can be defined, wherein the holding elements between applicator element, i. second ends, and the articulation points, and between the articulation points and the first ends preferably have a straight course.

The guide sleeve may be coupled to a holding element in one-piece design. It is also possible, however, that one of the retaining elements attached to the guide sleeve, that is coupled to this is, for example, by a plug-in, detent, adhesive connection and others. The guide sleeve can be coupled to the holding body by a mechanical connection, for example a screw connection. However, it is also possible that the guide sleeve and the holding body are integrally formed. For example, the guide sleeve and the holding body may be formed integrally molded. Preferably, portions of the longitudinally displaceable holding elements facing away from the applicator element lie completely within the guide sleeve and / or within the holding element. In other words, only the portions of the holding elements extending between the outlet opening of the guide sleeve and the applicator element are preferably outside of the guide sleeve and holding body. In particular, by lying outside the guide sleeve and the holding body portions of the holding elements whose length can be changed in longitudinal displacement, the applicator can be clamped according to the particular desired shape, contour and / or orientation.

The guide sleeve may be plugged onto a base body of the holding body, which may be formed in particular as a closed hollow body on one side. As already mentioned, the guide sleeve, at least in the region of the outlet opening of the holding elements, preferably has a smaller diameter relative to the base body. In particular, the guide sleeve can taper the diameter of the base body in such a way that optimum and narrow guidance of the retaining elements is achieved at the exit point from the retaining body.

In particular, by a close guidance of the holding elements, the mechanical stability of the structure formed by holding elements and applicator element can be improved.

The mechanical stability of the structure formed by retaining elements and applicator element can furthermore be influenced by appropriate selection of the flexural strength of the retaining elements and of the applicator element.

In any case, the stability of the structure formed from holding elements and applicator element should be stable at least in all relevant shapes, contours and / or orientations such that the respective cosmetic product, eg mascara, lip gloss and others, can be applied or applied without difficulty.

In embodiments, it may be provided that the cross section of the holding element is selected from the following group: triangular, crescent-shaped, semicircular, quadrangular, square, rectangular, elliptical, semi-elliptic, star-shaped, polygonal. In particular, by the cross-sectional shape, the compressive, tensile and / or bending stiffness, as well as flexibility and / or dimensional stability of the holding elements can be adjusted or adjusted. Furthermore, suitably selected cross sections can improve the guidance of the holding elements in the holding body, in particular in the guide sleeve.

For example, in a Kosmetikapplikator with two longitudinally displaceable holding elements, the cross sections of the holding elements formed semicircular, and be arranged with mutually facing flat sides together, wherein the outer diameter of the two juxtaposed holding elements corresponds approximately to the inner diameter of the guide sleeve. In particular, in this case it can be achieved that the abutting holding elements substantially fill a hollow cylindrical guiding sleeve adapted in the inner diameter, so that the holding elements can be optimally guided therein

In further embodiments, it can be provided that mutually facing surfaces of two holding elements have mutually complementary contours. The complementary contours can in particular be designed such that they engage in one another in a nut-and-tongue manner or dive into one another. In particular, by complementary contours improved guidance can be achieved in and through the guide sleeve. Furthermore, the mechanical stability of the structure formed from retaining elements and applicator element can be improved.

According to claim 15, a cosmetic container is provided, comprising a container for holding a cosmetic substance, in particular mascara, lip gloss and others, and a closure cap for closing an opening of the container with a thereto, preferably exchangeable, attached cosmetic applicator according to one of the above Embodiments and variants, wherein the cosmetic applicator is designed such that the applicator element is deformable such that it can be received in a configuration in the container.

Because of advantages and advantageous effects of the cosmetic container reference is made to the above statements, which apply here accordingly.

Embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the attached figures.

Fig. 1

eine Seitenansicht eines Kosmetikutensils einer ersten Variante;

Fig. 2

einen Querschnitt des Kosmetikutensils nach Fig. 1;

Fig. 3

eine Seitenansicht eines Kosmetikapplikators des Kosmetikutensils nach Fig. 1 in einer ersten Konfiguration;

Fig. 4

eine Seitenansicht eines Kosmetikapplikators des Kosmetikutensils nach Fig. 1 in einer zweiten Konfiguration;

Fig. 5

ein Detail der Fig. 2;

Fig. 6 bis 11

Seitenansichten eines Kosmetikapplikators einer zweiten Variante;

Fig. 12 bis 15

Seitenansichten eines Kosmetikapplikators einer dritten Variante;

Fig. 16 bis 20

Seitenansichten eines Kosmetikapplikators einer vierten Variante;

Fig. 21 und 22

ein Detail betreffend Ausgestaltungen von Halteelementen der Kosmetikapplikatoren; und

Fig. 23 und 24

beispielhafte Anwendungen des Kosmetikapplikators einer der gezeigten Varianten.

Show it:

Fig. 1

a side view of a Kosmetikutensils a first variant;

Fig. 2

a cross-section of the Kosmetikutensils after Fig. 1 ;

Fig. 3

a side view of a cosmetics applicator of Kosmetutensils after Fig. 1 in a first configuration;

Fig. 4

a side view of a cosmetics applicator of Kosmetutensils after Fig. 1 in a second configuration;

Fig. 5

a detail of Fig. 2 ;

Fig. 6 to 11

Side views of a cosmetics applicator of a second variant;

Fig. 12 to 15

Side views of a cosmetics applicator of a third variant;

Fig. 16 to 20

Side views of a cosmetics applicator of a fourth variant;

FIGS. 21 and 22

a detail concerning embodiments of holding elements of the cosmetics applicators; and

FIGS. 23 and 24

exemplary applications of the cosmetic applicator one of the variants shown.

In the figures, the same and functionally identical elements are referred to as meaningful with the same reference numerals.

Fig. 1 shows a side view of a Kosmetikutensils 1, a first variant, and Fig. 2 shows a sectional view of the Kosmetikutensils. 1

The cosmetic utensil 1 comprises a container 2 adapted to receive a cosmetic substance such as mascara, lip gloss and the like therein. Furthermore, the container 2 is designed and designed in such a way that an applicator element 3 designed, for example, in the manner of a round brush brush can be received in a predetermined shape and / or orientation therein, which is made Fig. 2 is apparent. Apart from a round brush-like configuration, the applicator element 3 may also be formed according to the possibilities mentioned above, and for example a flocked applicator element, eg a plastic-flocked applicator element, a coated applicator element, a rubber, textile, wire and textile, sponge and or comprise chamfered applicator element. The applicator element can also be formed in the manner of a stamp, ie stamp-like.

The cosmetic utensil 1 further comprises a closure cap 4 for the container 2. The closure cap 4 can be screwed to the container 2.

The closure cap 4 comprises a first cosmetic applicator 5, which in two different configurations of a first variant in the side views of FIGS. 3 and 4 is shown in more detail.

It should be noted that in Fig. 1 and 2 shown cosmetic utensil 1 may also have other variants of cosmetics applicators, in particular the second to fourth variants described below.

The first cosmetic applicator 5 of the first variant FIGS. 1 to 4 comprises a holding body 6 and two wire-like holding elements 7. How out Fig. 2 it can be seen, both holding elements 7 are coupled with first ends 8 to the holding body or fixed thereto. Second ends 9 of the holding elements 7 are coupled to the applicator element 3. More specifically, the second ends 9 are coupled or connected to opposite ends or sides of the applicator element 3.

The applicator element 3 is articulated to the holding elements 7 at the second ends 9, in particular such that the holding elements 7 and the applicator element 3 can be bent relative to one another or pivoted relative to one another.

How farther Fig. 2 it is evident that is in Fig. 2 located on the left first holding element 7.1 stationary, but articulated, in particular bendable, fixed to a guide sleeve 10 of the holding body 6.

The guide sleeve 10 is designed as an insert and inserted into the one-sided, cylindrical base body 11 of the holding body 6.

This in Fig. 2 located on the right second retaining element 7.2 runs in the configuration of Fig. 3 essentially completely within the holding body 6 and the guide sleeve 10; in the configuration Fig. 4 at least partially within the holding body 6 and the guide sleeve 10th

In contrast to the first holding element 7.1, the second holding element 7.2 is not fixedly fixed on the holding body 6, but is longitudinally displaceably coupled to the holding body. This should mean, in particular, that the second holding element 7.2 is longitudinally displaceable relative to the holding body 6 and in the present case also relative to the first holding element 7.1.

The longitudinal displacement is in particular from the two configurations after FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 seen. In Fig. 3 is the second retaining element 7.2 completely retracted in the holding body 6 and guide sleeve 10, while in according to the configuration Fig. 4 the second holding element 7.2 is partially pushed out by longitudinal displacement of the holding body 6 and the guide sleeve 10.

The fact that the holding elements 7 are bendable with respect to the lateral direction, and are compressive and tensile stable with respect to the axial direction at least for the usual forces in cosmetic applicators causes a longitudinal displacement of the second holding member 7.2 a change in orientation or orientation of the applicator 3 relative to Holding body 6.

In the present example, the applicator element 3 itself is rigidly formed so that the shape and contour of the applicator element 3 are not changed by longitudinal displacement of the second retaining element 7.2. However, if the applicator element 3 as such, for example comparable to the holding elements 7, also bendable, which is the case in subsequent embodiments, so may be changed by a longitudinal displacement of the second holding member 7.2, if necessary, the shape and contour of the applicator element 3.

Depending on the extent of the longitudinal displacement of the second holding element 7.2 are for the applicator element 3 is substantially any intermediate positions between the in Fig. 3 shown vertical orientation and in Fig. 4 shown horizontal alignment possible.

For setting and fixing defined orientations and configurations of the applicator element 3, a latching or clamping mechanism may be present, by means of which the longitudinally displaceable second holding element 7.2 can be latched or clamped in predetermined positions.

Since the change in the orientation of the applicator element 3 is brought about by the longitudinal displacement of the second retaining element 7.2, the wire-like second retaining element 7.2 can also be referred to as a driver element or driver wire. In contrast, the stationary first holding element 7.1 assumes only holding function and can therefore be referred to as a holding wire. The second retaining element 7.2 is or is bent or bent in the region of the outlet opening out of the guide sleeve 10. Since the position of the bend or buckling along the retaining element changes in the course of the longitudinal displacement, the second retaining element 7.2 is elastically flexible at least in the section which can protrude from the guide sleeve 10 during handling. For the sake of simplicity, the second holding element 7.2 may be made of the same material throughout, and thus made bendable over its entire length.

The holding elements 7 may in particular be made of metal or plastic or a composite of plastic and metal. The same applies to the base body of the applicator element 3, to which bristles are attached for receiving and applying the cosmetic substance. In particular, the applicator element may be formed as a wire or wire-like body to which applicator bristles are attached. As already mentioned, the applicator element can be designed as a round brush or a round brush, or according to the abovementioned possibilities. The application element may in particular be a brush or brush-type element that is injection-molded from a plastic material. A corresponding brush may be made of a plastic material in one piece or in several pieces or made of different materials.

In particular, in an application element made of 2 components, the brush may be threaded to its attachment to the support member 7 on the support member, plugged in length and / or plugged between the ends of the support members 7.1 and 7.2, screwed, welded, glued, locked and / or be plugged. In these embodiments, the brush may in particular comprise a tubular cavity through or in which the holding element extends or protrudes. As already mentioned, the brush can also be sprayed onto the holding element 7.

As in particular from Fig. 4 As can be seen, the length of the applicator bristles, but also the density of the applicator bristles, can vary over the circumference or over the length of the base body of the applicator element 3.

I m example of the Fig. 1 to 4 the applicator bristles are the longest in the region of the center of the applicator element 3, whereby the length of the applicator bristles decreases from the top side to the bottom side of the applicator element 3. As the bottom is to the holding body in the configuration of Fig. 4 facing side of the applicator element 3 are understood. According to experience, this area, ie the underside, is less relevant for the application of the cosmetic substance, so that in particular the length of the bristles, but also the density of the bristles, can be reduced compared to the application-relevant upper side.

As already mentioned, the second holding element 7.2 is fixed longitudinally displaceably on the holding body 6. Fig. 5 branches an associated one the longitudinal displacement fixation of the second retaining element 7.2 concerning detail.

For the longitudinal displacement of the second holding element 7.2, the holding body 6 comprises a linear sliding mechanism, which in the present case is a sliding element 12 which can be manually operated from outside the holding body 6 and which is located in a slot 13 (see FIG Fig. 1, 2 ) is fixed longitudinally displaceable.

The sliding member 12 has a projecting through the slot 13 into the interior of the holding body 6 guide pin 14 and projecting from this a detent spring-like retaining pin 15th

The guide pin 14 is designed to guide the sliding element 12 in the slot 13th

The holding pin 15 is designed for fastening the first end 8 of the second holding element 7.2. For fastening the first end of the second retaining element 7.2, the sliding mechanism comprises a sliding plate 16, the one (not shown eyelet) of the first end 8 of the second holding member 7.2 passes through, or engages. The sliding plate 16 itself can be guided in the holding body 6 existing grooves.

In addition to the mentioned and described possibility of displacement of a holding element 7.1, 7.2 in the longitudinal direction relative to the holding body 6 by a longitudinally displaceable sliding element 12, can also be provided that a rotary, screw, and / or lifting mechanism is implemented by which by a rotary , Screw and / or lifting movement of an actuating element, the respective holding element can be moved in the longitudinal direction.

For mounting the longitudinally displaceable second retaining element 7.2, this is introduced with the first end 8 ahead in the guide sleeve 10 and the base body 11 and positioned so that the retaining pin 15 can be inserted through the slot 13 and sliding plate 16 and eye of the second support member 7.2. When properly mounted, the locking lugs protrude at the end of the retaining pin 15 out of the through hole of the sliding plate 16, so that all parts of the sliding mechanism are mechanically fixed to each other.

It should be mentioned that the previously described linear slide mechanism can be implemented analogously in the case of the cosmetic applicators described below. In that regard, is omitted hereinafter repeated description of the general function of the linear sliding mechanism.

Fig. 6 to 11 show side views of a second cosmetic applicator 17 of a second variant.

In contrast to the first cosmetic applicator 5, the second cosmetic applicator 17 has two holding elements 7, which are both longitudinally displaceably coupled to the holding body 6 relative to the holding body 6 and to the guide sleeve 10. Each first end of the two holding elements 7 is coupled to a linear displacement mechanism, each having a sliding element 12, and otherwise can be constructed according to the above description.

The two holding elements 7 are independently longitudinally displaceable in the present example, which means that the linear displacement mechanisms of the individual holding elements 7 are not coupled together.

A further difference to the first cosmetic applicator 5 is that the applicator element 3 is designed to be flexible in the present case. Due to the bendability of the applicator element 3 and the longitudinal displaceability of the two holding elements 7, a larger variety of different shapes, contours and orientations in the applicator element 3 can be set in the second variant. As already mentioned, the variety of possible shapes and contours of the applicator element 3 depends inter alia on the dimensional stability of the applicator element 3 and the bendability of the holding elements 7.

Fig. 6 shows the configuration in which both holding elements 7 are maximally extended, ie pushed out of the holding body 6 at the maximum. This configuration is essentially the same as that Fig. 3 , with the only difference that here the applicator element 3 is bendable, and thus curved.

I am expiring Fig. 7 to 11 It is shown how shape, contour and orientation of the applicator 3 change when only one of the holding elements 7 is completely retracted, and then the other holding member 7 is retracted into the holding body.

The structures formed by the holding elements 7 and / or the applicator element 3 in the FIGS. 6 to 11 range from Polygonal ( Fig. 6 ) over substantially linear ( Fig. 8 ) to loop-shaped ( Fig. 11 ), wherein a plurality of different intermediate stages is possible, of which FIGS. 7, 9 and 10 only a few examples show.

In the configuration of Fig. 8 or. Fig. 11 the applicator element 3 is also shaped so that this in a corresponding (not shown) container, analogous to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 , can be recorded.

If necessary, the linear displacement mechanisms may comprise latching or fixing means with which the holding elements 7 can be locked or fixed at predetermined positions. In particular, it can be provided that the holding elements 7 in the configuration according to Fig. 8 or Fig. 11 in which the Kosmetikutensil 1 can be coupled to the container, and the applicator element 3 is received in the container, can be fixed.

It is also possible that the in the Fig. 6 to 11 shown positions can be adjusted by predetermined restraint and / or Fixiervorkehrungen. It should be noted that one compared to the Fig. 6 to Fig. 11 coarser or finer screening would be possible, so that overall fewer or even more predetermined configurations for the applicator element 3 could be specified.

Fig. 12 to 15 show side views of a third Kosmetikapplikators 18 a third variant.

The third cosmetic applicator 18 has a similar structure to the second cosmetic applicator 17. In particular, the third cosmetic applicator 18 has two longitudinally displaceable holding elements 7.

In contrast to the second cosmetic applicator 17, however, the holding elements are not longitudinally displaceable separately, but these are coupled together via a common linear displacement mechanism. This means, in particular, that on actuation of the sliding element 12, both holding elements 7 are moved. This can help to simplify the handling of the cosmetic applicator. For the linear displacement mechanism, reference is made to the comments above.

Fig. 12 shows an end position in which the holding elements 7 are completely pushed out. By the operation of the sliding element 12 downwards, ie in the direction of the closed end of the main body 11, both holding elements 7 are drawn in via the guide sleeve, and the loop formed by holding elements 7 and applicator element 3 outside the holding body 7 decreases.

As a result of the comparatively narrow outlet opening of the guide sleeve 10, a force is exerted on the applicator element 3 when the retaining elements 7 are retracted, so that this bends at the predetermined bending point, which lies approximately in its middle, so that the loop performs a kind of collapsing movement.

If the sliding element 12 is moved all the way down and the retaining elements 7 are completely retracted, a comparatively compact folded, arc-like applicator element 3 is created, which can be introduced in particular into a conventional cosmetic container or if necessary can also be used to apply a cosmetic substance ,

Another difference to the second cosmetic applicator 17 is that the applicator element 3 has a reduced bending stiffness at an approximately centrally located point in comparison to the remaining applicator element 3, so that the applicator element 3 preferably bends in the region of the center when the retaining elements 7 are retracted. In this way, particularly pointed shapes and contours can be achieved in the applicator element 3.

It should be mentioned that the applicator element 3 can have one or more points with reduced bending stiffness. The number of points with reduced bending stiffness and / or the degree of reduction of the bending stiffness can be chosen in particular depending on the desired application and the desired shape variants in the applicator element. Locally reduced flexural stiffness (s) can also be applied to the applicator elements the other cosmetic applicators are provided or be present.

It is also possible with the third cosmetic applicator 18 that there are no points of reduced bending stiffness, which is comparable to the embodiment according to the second cosmetic applicator 17. As already indicated in advance, the applicator element 3 of the second cosmetic applicator 17 can additionally have one or more points of reduced bending stiffness, so that pointed shapes and contours can also be achieved here.

In the Fig. 15 shown configuration of the third Kosmetikapplikators 18 represents the form in which the applicator element 3 can also be received in a corresponding (not shown) container of the third Kosmetikapplikators 18.

Analogously to the second cosmetic applicator 17, in the third cosmetic applicator 18, the length and / or density of the bristles in the lower region of the applicator element 3, or more generally in the regions of the applicator element 3 that are less relevant for the application of the cosmetic substance, can be reduced and / or shaped differently , which in particular from the FIGS. 12 to 15 is apparent.

Fig. 16 to 20 show side views of a fourth Kosmetikapplikators a fourth variant.

The fourth cosmetic applicator 19 differs from the cosmetic applicators shown so far in that it has a further holding element 20.

The further holding element 20, as the other two holding elements 7 longitudinally displaceable coupled to the holding body 6. All three holding elements 7, 20 have separate linear sliding mechanisms with corresponding sliding elements 12.

The second ends 9 of the holding elements 7 are connected to the ends of the applicator element 3 facing away from each other. The second end 9 of the further holding element 20 is connected centrally to the applicator element 3.

The further holding element 20 may in particular be a rigid wire or a rigid wire-like element with which tensile or compressive forces can be exerted on the applicator element 3.

The two other holding elements 7 may be formed substantially corresponding to the first to third variants, and in particular be designed as bendable wires, or wire-like elements.

By providing the further holding element 20, and optionally a reduced flexural strength in the region of the point of engagement of the further holding element 20 on the applicator element 3, the adjustable variety of shapes and contours and orientations in the applicator element 3 can be further increased compared to the first to third variants. In the present case, the applicator element 3 can be changed by separate longitudinal displacement of the respective holding elements 7, 20 in shape, contour and / or orientation.

In the region of the connection point of the applicator element 3 with the further holding element 20, the latter is essentially subdivided into two regions which, for example, consist of Fig. 20 can be seen, can be adjusted differently by appropriate adjustment of the holding elements 7 and the other holding member 20 in shape and / or contour.

By appropriate adjustment of the holding elements 7 and the further holding element 20, in particular round-convex ( Fig. 16 ), pointed-convex ( Fig. 17, Fig. 18 ), round-concave (Fig. 29) and mixed convex-concave shapes and contours are set at the applicator element 3.

The linear sliding mechanisms of the holding elements 7 and the further holding element 20 are in the present case preferably each equipped with a latching or fixing device, so that the holding elements 7 and the further holding element 20 can be locked or fixed at corresponding positions.

The latching and fixing devices may in particular be designed such that the holding elements 7 and the further holding element 20 can be fixed at any desired locations. Alternatively, latching and fixing devices are possible, which only allow predefined latching and fixing positions. For details on locking, reference is made to the statements above, which apply analogously here.

In particular, in the case of the fourth variant with a total of three holding elements 7, 20, it is possible that the linear sliding mechanisms are coupled to each other at least partially or in sections.

For example, such a coupling may consist in unlocking the holding elements 7 when the further holding element 20 is brought into the maximally extended position, so that a predetermined shape and contour is achieved in the applicator element 3 in the maximally extended position of the further holding element 20.

By a suitable coupling, at least in certain or predetermined displacement ranges, it can be achieved that the setting of one of the holding elements, in the present case the further holding element 20, in a predetermined displacement position causes a predetermined shape and contour of the applicator element 3. A coupling of holding elements 7, 20 is particularly useful in order to facilitate the handling of the cosmetic applicator and / or to provide defined standard settings and shapes in the applicator element 3.

FIGS. 21 and 22 show a detail concerning embodiments of holding elements of the cosmetics applicators.

Fig. 21 shows a section of a guide sleeve 10 with two guided therein retaining elements 7. The two holding elements 7, comparable to the holding elements of the second and third variant, have defined, but different cross sections.

More precisely, one of the holding elements 7 has a semi-circular cross-section. The other holding element 7 has a semicircular cross section, wherein on the flat side a centrally formed bulge is present. The bulge is such that the flat side in the contour is complementary to the corresponding side of the other holding element 7.

If the holding elements 7 are placed facing each other with the complementary sides, they form a rod-shaped or rod-like shape with a circular outer diameter because of the specially designed cross sections, so that the holding elements 7 can be guided optimally in combination in the cylindrical guide sleeve 10.

The cross-section of the holding elements 7, 20 can be selected according to the list of options described above, wherein the choice of the cross-section can have, inter alia, influence on the bending, tensile and / or compressive rigidity. In other words, it can be achieved by the appropriate choice and combination of the cross sections of the holding elements 7 a respectively desired bending, tensile and / or compressive rigidity.

FIGS. 23 and 24 Exemplary applications of the cosmetic applicator one of the variants shown in the application of mascara to the human eye.

I m example of the Fig. 23 can be achieved by an appropriately set convex curved shape of the applicator element 3, for example, the second and third Kosmetikapplikators 17, 18, an application of mascara in a horizontal make-up axis and vertical position of the cosmetics applicator.

I m example of the Fig. 23 can be achieved by a suitable spitzbogenförmig-flat contour of the applicator element 3 an application of mascara with vertical make-up axis and horizontal position of the cosmetic applicator.

In particular, these examples show that the proposed cosmetic applicator a comparatively broad range of application can be achieved, the application of a cosmetic can be improved and simplified, especially because of the large number of adjustment options in the applicator.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

cosmetic utensil

2

container

3

applicator

4

cap

5

first cosmetics applicator

6

holding body

7

retaining element

7.1

first holding element

7.2

second retaining element

8th

first end

9

second end

10

guide sleeve

11

body

12

sliding element

13

Long hole

14

guide pin

15

retaining pins

16

sliding plate

17

second cosmetics applicator

18

third cosmetics applicator

19

fourth cosmetics applicator

20

another holding element

Claims (15)

Cosmetic applicator (5, 17, 18, 19) for applying a cosmetic substance, comprising an applicator element (3) designed for applying the cosmetic substance, and comprising a holding body (6), as well as at least two wire-like holding elements (7, 20) at the first end (8) with the holding body (6), and at the second end (9) are coupled to the applicator element (3), wherein at least one of the holding elements (7, 20) is coupled to the holding body (6) in that the latter is displaceable in the longitudinal direction relative to the holding body (6) such that the position, shape and / or orientation of the applicator element (3) can be changed by a relative displacement. Cosmetic applicator (5, 17, 18, 19) according to claim 1, wherein at least two of the holding elements (7, 20) are coupled to the holding body (6) such that they are displaceable in the longitudinal direction relative to each other so that position by a relative displacement , Shape and / or orientation of the applicator element (3) is variable / adjustable. Cosmetic applicator (5, 17, 18, 19) according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein a first end (8) of at least one holding element (7, 20) is linearly displaceably coupled to a linear sliding mechanism of the holding body. Cosmetic applicator (5, 17, 18, 19) according to claim 3, wherein the linear sliding mechanism of a holding element (7, 20) comprises a sliding element (12) which can be manually operated from an outer side of the holding body (6). Cosmetic applicator (5, 17, 18, 19) according to claim 4, further comprising a locking device which is designed such that the sliding element (12) at predetermined positions along the holding body (6) can be latched. Cosmetic applicator (5, 17, 18, 19) according to one of Claims 1 to 5, at least one first end (8) of one of the holding elements (7.1) being fixed in position to the holding body (6) or to a guide sleeve (10) connected thereto or formed thereon connected is. Cosmetic applicator (5, 17, 18, 19) according to one of Claims 1 to 6, comprising a plurality of holding elements (7), one of the holding elements (7.1) fixed in a fixed position to the holding body (6) or to a guide sleeve (10) connected thereto or formed thereon is, and the other holding element (7.2) longitudinally displaceable with the holding body (6) is coupled. Cosmetic applicator (5, 17, 18, 19) according to one of claims 1 to 6, comprising exactly two holding elements (7.1, 7.2), wherein both holding elements (7.1, 7.2) are longitudinally displaceable coupled to the holding body (6). Cosmetic applicator (5, 17, 18, 19) according to one of claims 1 to 6, comprising exactly three holding elements (7, 20), wherein at least two, preferably three of the holding elements (7, 20) are longitudinally coupled to the holding body (6) , Cosmetic applicator (5, 17, 18, 19) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein retaining elements (7, 20) longitudinally displaceably coupled to the holding body (6) are displaceable independently of one another at least along a first displacement path. Cosmetic applicator (5, 17, 18, 19) according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein longitudinally displaceably coupled to the holding body (6) coupled holding elements (7, 20) are coupled together such that a longitudinal displacement at least one of the holding elements (20) causes a longitudinal displacement of at least one further holding element (7) along a second displacement path. Cosmetic applicator (5, 17, 18, 19) according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the holding body (6) comprises a guide sleeve (10), and wherein at least one of the holding elements (7, 20) guided, at least in sections, in the guide sleeve is. Cosmetic applicator (5, 17, 18, 19) according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the cross section of the holding element (7, 20) is selected from the following group: triangular, crescent-shaped, semicircular, quadrangular, square, rectangular, elliptical, semi-elliptic, star-shaped, polygonal. Cosmetic applicator (5, 17, 18, 19) according to one of claims 1 to 13, wherein mutually facing surfaces of two holding elements (7) have mutually complementary contours. Cosmetic container (1), comprising a container (2) for receiving a cosmetic substance, and a closure cap (4) designed to close an opening of the container (2) with a cosmetic applicator (5, 17, 18, 19) attached thereto, preferably exchangeably ) according to one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the cosmetic applicator (5, 17, 18, 19) is designed such that the applicator element (3) is deformable such that it can be received in a configuration in the container (2).

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