EP3177173B1 - Wiper with hinged wiper arms - Google Patents

Description

The invention is directed to scrapers for stripping a Kosmetikapplikators with a first component, in particular a holding portion, for setting the scraper on a cosmetic reservoir, and at least two arranged thereon and stripping acting Abstreiferarmen.

Furthermore, the invention is directed to methods for producing such a scraper.

Finally, the invention is directed to a cosmetic unit with a cosmetic storage container, an applicator, a closure cap and a scraper mounted in the neck or in the removal opening of the cosmetic storage container for stripping the cosmetic mass from the applicator. Such a scraper is used for stripping excess cosmetic composition from an applicator, which is immersed in the cosmetic composition and then pulled out through the scraper through from the cosmetics stock to apply a certain amount of the cosmetic, preferably without blobbing. In particular, the invention relates to a scraper for applicators of lipgloss or mascara mass. Such an applicator usually consists of an attached at its one end actual applicator, often designed as a bristle trim, and attached to its opposite end applicator, in which often the applicator handle is also designed as a screw. Connected are the applicator section and the applicator handle with an applicator handle, which is positioned movably in the center of the scraper inserted into the mouth of the applicator or cosmetic reservoir when placed in an applicator container or cosmetic reservoir containing the supply of cosmetic mass.

Various types of applicators have become known in the art. Most such scrapers are designed as at one end in the broadest sense frustoconical tapered sleeves or tubular body. The truncated cone-shaped portion forms a peripheral circumferential, usually completely self-contained or in closely adjacent circular segments, each forming a Abstreiferarm, divided Abstreiferlippe.

When dimensioning such a wiper lip, considerable consideration must be given to the diameter of the handle, with which the actual applicator section, which consists predominantly of a bristle facing, is connected to the applicator handle.

In many cases, especially when using applicators with bristle stock a conflict of objectives. If the clear internal diameter of the wiper lip of such a wiper is dimensioned comparatively large, then the wiper does not oppose the withdrawal of the applicator excessively, but leaves a great deal of cosmetic mass in the applicator or its bristle facing.

As soon as the clear diameter of the area enclosed by the wiper lip is made noticeably smaller than the diameter of the applicator handle, the actual applicator section becomes substantially stronger stripped. At the same time, however, the resistance, which must be overcome when pulling out of the applicator by the scraper, significantly increased.

This conflict of objectives often results in the design of the applicator having to maintain a certain diameter ratio between the applicator handle and the bristle-bearing core of the applicator, which limits the design possibilities.

The US 2,703,898 discloses a wiper having segmented resilient wiper lips for wiping excess fluid from a brush.

The US 2005/0095052 A1 already discloses a scraper, which comprises a fixed, to be determined in an orifice opening of a Applikatorbehälters holding section with a molded thereon, forming a circular segment flexible Abstreiferarm. The flexible scraper arm can be moved with an actuating means such that the distal applicator container inside diameter of the scraper is thereby changed. The disadvantage here is that the flexible Abstreiferarm must be operated from the outside.

The invention has for its object to provide a solution that provides a scraper, in which the intensity of the stripping and the resistance that the scraper opposes the withdrawal of the applicator and the actual applicator, are in a favorable relationship and an actuation of Outside to achieve a change in the distal applicator container inside diameter of the scraper is not necessary.

In a scraper of the type described in more detail, this object is achieved in that at least one of the Abstreiferarme means of at least one hinge is attached to the first component, in particular the holding portion.

The object is achieved by a scraper according to claim 1. Furthermore, the object is achieved by the method according to claims 11 and 12.

This object is also achieved by a cosmetic unit comprising a cosmetic storage container, an applicator, a closure cap and a scraper (1) mounted in the neck or in the removal opening of the cosmetic storage container for stripping the cosmetic mass from the applicator, wherein the scraper (1) according to one of claims 1 - 11 is formed and / or produced by one of the method according to claim 12 or 13.

The solution of this task is therefore carried out by a scraper for stripping a cosmetics applicator, which is configured as follows:
The scraper has a first component usually in the form of a holding portion for fixing the scraper to a cosmetic reservoir. In this case, the scraper on at least two stripping acting Abstreiferarme. At least one of the wiper arms is pivotally mounted relative to the wiper by means of at least one hinge on the first component of the wiper or the holding portion of the wiper.

The hinge axis, d. H. the pivot axis represents i. d. R. is a straight line which, when projected into the plane in which the longitudinal axis L is located, is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.

Since it does not initially depend on the concrete design of the Abstreiferarms for the hinge connection essential to the invention, the term "Abstreiferarm" is far and describes any strip, section, or stripper wall part hinged to a stripper component, unless otherwise stated later in this description, by recognizably speaking of a stripper arm in the strict sense. Also in the context of this broad interpretation, the term "Abstreiferarm" but in no case only the actual wiper lip, which protrudes as a thinner executed section of the actual Abstreiferkörper, but preferably a part of the actual Abstreiferkörpers, usually less than 12.5 ° relative to the Longitudinal axis is inclined, which carries at its distal end or in its distal end directly adjacent third part of the possibly more obliquely inwardly extending wiper lip and only makes up a part of the Abstreiferumfangs.

The hinge attachment has the great advantage that the scraper arms can be specifically designed so that they can swing defined defined under the influence of the forces occurring in the application to the outside and thereby the maximum force can be limited, which acts on the bristle stocking when the Applicator is moved through the scraper. This is particularly important if the scraper is to work with an applicator carrying a trim of molded bristles that could be damaged by too harsh stripping. In addition, such a scraper with a larger diameter range of possible applicators comes to right, so it can cooperate with a significantly larger number of different diameter applicators and cooperate whose diameter vary much more than the diameter range of the "standard" - applicators that match a given standard scraper ,

The magnitude of the resistance which a scraper arm articulated according to the invention opposes to being pushed outwards can in many cases already be set with sufficient accuracy and in a simple manner by suitable dimensioning of the hinge, at least when using an integral hinge which is a specially designed component in FIG the wall area of a Abstreiferarms is integrated.

For reasons of patents for the most part, it should be said that the at least one hinge - even if this is not preferred for reasons of rationalization - is a classic hinge made of rod and pin or axle and z. B. clipped claw could exist, in which case, of course, a spring element must be present, which presses the hinged so scraper in his ready for stripping position.

Clearly preferred, however, is the integral design of the hinge, as will be described in more detail in connection with the embodiments.

To the question of how the term "hinge" is defined, the following must be stated: An in Fig. 7 illustrated Abstreiferbestandteil in the form of a bending beam or projection 10 without local thin spot, which deforms over its entire length uniformly or substantially evenly (+/- 25%) with the radius RK has no hinge or is not secured by means of an integral hinge.

Of a hinge in the context of the invention, in particular an integral hinge, in the broadest sense are spoken, if there is an area that applies the major part of the deformation, which contributes to the fact that the hinged Abstreiferarm or a projection moves under the influence of the forces normally occurring during the application to the outside. In that regard, on the Fig. 8 which shows that the major part of the deformation which leads to the displacement of the scraper arm carrying a projection in the radially outward direction is applied by the clearly recognizable thin spot. Most such area under the influence of the bend shows a local radius of curvature, which is at least a factor of 5 smaller than the radius of curvature of the immediately adjacent, possibly under load also deformed Abstreiferwandbereiche, each with respect to an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L.

It should be noted that that of the FIGS. 7 and 8 Illustrated by way of example with reference to the optional projection, the same applies equally to the wiper arms according to the invention.

Preferably, the at least one hinge is a local thin spot. When viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis, therefore, thicker wall sections of the scraper are connected on both sides to the thin point by at least the factor 3. The invention is characterized in its preferred embodiment therefore characterized in that the at least one hinge is designed in the form of a local thin point.

It is particularly favorable if at least one hinge is a film hinge whose thickness ideally lies in the submillimeter range. The invention therefore also provides that the at least one hinge is designed in the form of a film hinge.

Particularly preferably, each of the wiper arms is articulated to the holding section with only a single hinge, wherein the hinge is preferably arranged centrally relative to the extension of the wiper arm in the circumferential direction on the wiper arm. A single and preferably centrally positioned hinge opposes the desired Nachausßenschwenken the Abstreiferarms not too great resistance even if the Abstreiferarm in the circumferential direction has a not insignificant curvature and the associated bending stiffness. The invention is characterized in another embodiment, therefore, also in that each of the scraper arms by means of only a single hinge on the first component, in particular holding portion is hinged, wherein the respective hinge relative to the extension of the respective associated Abstreiferarms in the circumferential direction, preferably centrally on the respective scraper is arranged.

The at least one hinge is associated with at least one additional spring element. The invention therefore also provides that the at least one hinge, preferably all hinges, is assigned in each case at least one spring element which presses the respective wiper arm in the direction of its closed position.

In rare cases, contrary to its name, this spring element can functionally function as a further component of the hinge, so that the spring element springs less well than, above all, defines the pivot axis together with the actual hinge. However, this is not preferred.

As a rule, this spring element has an independent, independent of the hinge function, namely a stabilizing function. It is typically designed to increase the resistance that the respective wiper arm opposes to being pushed outward. Ideally, the spring element presses the respective wiper arm in the direction of its closed position, i. H. in the direction (closer) to the longitudinal axis L.

Not necessarily, but ideally, the spring element or elements are even designed so that they can snap their assigned stem portion or projection of a respective Abstreiferarms after molding alone or under the influence of small external forces in its intended position. They even contribute to the completion of the scraper.

In any case, can be adjusted using the spring elements even more precisely, which resistance opposes a respective Abstreiferarm its Nachaußengeschwenktwerden.

Preferably comes as a spring element, an elastic strip is used, which - based on the Abstreiferlängsachse - is connected to the front of the hinge to the holding portion and after the hinge on the Abstreiferarm. Such a spring element is typically injection-molded in one piece together with the remaining scraper in one shot. The invention therefore further provides that the at least one spring element is an elastic strip which, relative to the wiper longitudinal axis and toward the distal end of the wiper, in each case at least one hinge, preferably at all hinges, at the holding portion and after the respective Hinge is connected to the scraper arm.

It has proved to be advantageous if the spring element has a preferably constant curvature whose center of curvature lies between it and the wiper longitudinal axis. If the curvature is constantly variable, this applies to all its centers of curvature. In this regard, the invention provides in a development that the at least one spring element has a, in particular constant or continuous, curvature whose center of curvature or center of curvature lies / lie between the at least one spring element and the wiper longitudinal axis.

Most is provided on one, preferably on each Abstreiferarm seen in the circumferential direction centrally located hinge and two seen in the circumferential direction on both sides next to the hinge arranged spring elements. The invention is therefore further characterized in that arranged on one, preferably on each, Abstreiferarm viewed in the circumferential direction centrally located hinge and seen in the circumferential direction on both sides next to the respective hinge in each case a spring element is arranged.

Optimally, the or the scrapers are designed so that his / her hinges and preferably also the optionally associated spring elements allow at least one and preferably all scraper arms to the o. G. To pivot axis and indeed by an angle of at least 90 ° relative to the longitudinal axis. This is an angle of exactly 90 ° or possibly with a tolerance of +/- 15 °. Accordingly, the invention finally also provides that at least one, preferably all wiper arms are designed to be foldable outwards at an angle of at least 90 ° relative to the longitudinal axis.

The scraper arms integrally formed on a holding section can be designed differently. A variant of a Abstreiferarms may have a ring portion at its lower edge. The invention is characterized in development therefore also by the fact that at least a part, preferably half of all Abstreiferarme, in particular in the circumferential direction of the holding portion alternately every second Abstreiferarm, a handle portion having a molded at its distal end ring portion whose extent in the circumferential direction greater than is the extension of the stem section.

Particularly suitable manufacturing methods for a scraper according to the invention are the injection molding of plastic and plastic processing 3-D printing or rapid prototyping method. The invention therefore also provides in a further embodiment that the scraper is produced by means of injection molding or by means of a 3-D printing process.

For the production of the scraper according to the invention, a method is suitable for injection molding a scraper, which consists of at least two sections which are connected to each other by means of an integral hinge, wherein the sections are injected in an unfolded position, which does not correspond to the position they are during use of the intended use of the finished scraper relative to each other, and that the sections after molding of the scraper by itself or with the help of external forces relative to each pivot into the position that they occupy unloaded when used as intended of the finished scraper relative to each other. In order to produce the scraper in a position by injection molding, which is easier to control for the purpose of injection molding, but not the overall positioning of all components of the scraper relative to each other in ready to use, unloaded state corresponds, in this case the use and design of a hinge or hinges more appropriate and advantageous. This enables an inventive method for producing a scraper according to one of claims 1 -11, having a first component, in particular a holding portion for setting the scraper on a cosmetic reservoir and at least two stripping scraper arms acting by injection molding such that the at least two stripping acting scraper arms on the one hand and the first component, in particular the holding portion, on the other hand in an unfolded position are injected to each other, which does not correspond to the position, the first component, in particular the holding portion, and the at least two stripping acting Abstreiferarme during the intended use of the scraper relative occupy each other, wherein the at least two stripping acting Abstreiferarme each by means of at least one hinge to the first component, in particular the holding portion, are connected, and that the m at least two stripping acting Abstreiferarme after forming the scraper from the injection mold, preferably automatically, relative to each other and to the first component, in particular the holding portion, swivel or swiveled into the position that they occupy unloaded when used as intended of the scraper relative to each other what the invention also provides in development.

However, it is also possible a method of injection molding a scraper, which consists of at least two sections, which are connected to each other by means of an integral hinge, in which the sections are injected in a position that finished their position Applicator when used properly, wherein the hinges are used to move the hinged portion when molding from the injection mold relative to the other portion and so facilitate the molding or allow. Alternatively, it is also possible to inject the scraper injection molding technology in an embodiment in which its individual components already occupy each other at least approximately their use positions to each other. In a further embodiment, the invention provides an alternative manufacturing method. This relates to a method for producing a scraper according to one of claims 1 - 11, comprising a first component, in particular a holding portion for setting the scraper on a cosmetic reservoir and at least two stripping acting Abstreiferarme, by injection molding such that the at least two stripping acting Scraper arms on the one hand and the first component, in particular the holding portion, on the other hand in a position to each other at least substantially corresponding to the position, the first component, in particular the holding portion, and the at least two stripping acting Abstreiferarme during the intended use of the scraper relative occupy each other, wherein the at least two stripping acting Abstreiferarme each by means of at least one hinge to the first component, in particular the holding portion, are connected and the hinges an at least leic allow for swiveling out of each hinged or articulated Abstreiferarms when forming the scraper from the injection mold.

As an alternative to injection molding, the applicator according to the invention can be produced by 3-D printing, ie by the methods which are developed for rapid prototyping have been.

• Die Fig. 1 zeigt ein erstes Ausführungsbeispiel des erfindungsgemäßen Abstreifers perspektivisch von der Seite gesehen, in vielfacher Vergrößerung.
• Die Fig. 2 zeigt den Abstreifer gem. Fig. 1 in reiner Seitenansicht.
• Die Fig. 3 zeigt den Abstreifer gemäß Fig. 1 in Frontalansicht, in Richtung der Mittellängsachse gesehen, von oben.
• Die Fig. 4 zeigt den Abstreifer gemäß Fig. 1 in Frontalansicht, in Richtung der Mittellängsachse gesehen, von unten.
• Die Fig. 5 zeigt einen Mittellängsschnitt des Abstreifers gem. Fig. 1.
• Die Fig. 5a zeigt einen noch weiter vergrößerten Detailausschnitt aus der Fig. 5 im Bereich eines Scharniers 12.
• Die Fig. 6 zeigt einen zum Zwecke des besseren Ausformens in "aufgeklappter" Position spritzgegossenen Abstreifer gem. Fig. 1, der anschließend "zusammengeklappt" wird und dann gebrauchsfertig ist.
• Die Fig. 7 veranschaulicht, was nicht unter den Begriff des "Scharniers" fällt.
• Die Fig. 8 veranschaulicht, was unter den Begriff des Scharniers fällt.
• Die Fig. 9 zeigt ein zweites Ausführungsbeispiel eines erfindungsgemäßen Abstreifers mit nur angedeuteten Scharnieren und Federelementen perspektivisch, von der Seite gesehen.
• Die Fig. 10 zeigt den Abstreifer gem. Fig. 9 im Mittelschnitt entlang der Applikatorlängsachse L.

Other modes of operation, advantages and design options will become apparent from the following description of two specific embodiments with reference to the drawings.

• The Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of the scraper according to the invention in perspective seen from the side, in multiple magnification.
• The Fig. 2 shows the scraper gem. Fig. 1 in pure side view.
• The Fig. 3 shows the scraper according to Fig. 1 in frontal view, seen in the direction of the central longitudinal axis, from above.
• The Fig. 4 shows the scraper according to Fig. 1 in frontal view, seen in the direction of the central longitudinal axis, from below.
• The Fig. 5 shows a central longitudinal section of the scraper gem. Fig. 1 ,
• The Fig. 5a shows a still further enlarged detail of the Fig. 5 in the region of a hinge 12.
• The Fig. 6 shows a for the purpose of better molding in the "unfolded" position injection molded scraper gem. Fig. 1 , which is then "folded" and then ready to use.
• The Fig. 7 illustrates what is not covered by the concept of "Hinge" falls.
• The Fig. 8 illustrates what falls under the concept of the hinge.
• The Fig. 9 shows a second embodiment of a scraper according to the invention with only indicated hinges and spring elements in perspective, seen from the side.
• The Fig. 10 shows the scraper gem. Fig. 9 in the middle section along the applicator longitudinal axis L.

It should be anticipated that the scrapers according to the invention are preferably used as scrapers for mascara. Ideally, each of the scrapers according to the invention together with a cosmetic storage container and a suitable applicator and a closure cap forms a cosmetic unit. The scraper according to the invention is then inserted into the bottleneck or the container removal opening in such a way that its scraper arms protrude away from the container neck or the removal opening into the interior of the cosmetic storage container.

It is then to be noted with a generally valid effect that the term "distal" refers to the longitudinal direction furthest into the interior of a Kosmetikvorratsbehälters protruding side of the scraper, while the term "proximal" refers to the side of the scraper, in the longitudinal direction of the edge of the removal opening of the scraper Cosmetic container or cosmetic reservoir is closest.

The fastest overview of the hinge mechanism of the scraper 1 according to the invention is the FIG. 1 ,

As can be seen, the scraper 1 consists of a holding section 2 and at least two, in the exemplary embodiment exactly two first scraper arms 3, which in turn comprise a first handle portion 4 and a ring portion 5 arranged thereon. Furthermore, in the circumferential direction of the substantially rotationally symmetrical, cylindrical in the exemplary embodiment, formed holding portion 2 between two first stripping arms 3, second stripping arms 3a are formed. The second stripping arms 3a each have a second handle portion 4a. While in each case a ring portion 5 is integrally formed on the first stem sections 4, such is missing at the second stem portions 4a. The second handle sections 4a of the second wiper arms 3a each fit into a respective window 9a extending between two first handle sections 4 of the first wiper arms 3 and above a ring arm 8 of the ring sections 5. The holding section 2 generally has a substantially (to tolerances) cylindrical shape and is usually completely closed in the circumferential direction. The holding section 2 defines with its center or its center the central scraper longitudinal axis L.

As stated at the outset, the term "scraper arm" is to be construed broadly, unless otherwise stated later in this description, by recognizably speaking of a scraper blade in the strict sense.

First, the hinges 12 of the invention require closer inspection. The best overview of these hinges 12 offers the Fig. 1 while the details of the hinges are best judged by the Fig. 5 and 5a can recognize.

Clearly preferred over all other types of hinges is the integral design of the hinge, such as the Fig. 5 shows.

In this case, the design is preferably selected as a film hinge. Such a film hinge is usually designed so that it forms a local, limited to the actual hinge body thin spot 15 at which the wall thickness WS - in the present embodiment of the holding section 2 and an adjacent first and second handle section 4, 4a of a first or second Abstreiferarms 3, 3a - compared to the wall thickness WU of the immediate two-sided environment - in the present embodiment of the holding section 2 and an adjacent first and second handle section 4, 4a of a first or second Abstreiferarms 3, 3a - by more than 40%, better by more than 60 % reduced, cf. Fig. 5a , It is particularly favorable if the wall thickness (seen progressively in the direction of the longitudinal axis L) does not decrease substantially steadily, but drops abruptly, as is realized in the exemplary embodiments by the notch E, which runs around in particular in the circumferential direction. This wholly or possibly also substantially vertical drop in relation to the longitudinal axis L is in Fig. 5 and 5a clearly visible. In this way results in a significant local stress concentration, which increases the effect of the bending moment occurring during use, which tries to pivot the stem sections 4, 4a outwardly.

It can have a favorable effect if the wall thickness of the respective stem section 4, 4a or of a projection 10 is reduced distally below the respective associated hinge 12. For example, so that in the Fig. 1 and 2 shown local, mostly in the circumferential direction at least at the border to the hinge plane flat 14 results. Such a flattening 14 allows a straightforward connection of a respective hinge 12 to the respective handle portion 4, 4a or a respective projection 10 - whereby a more easily actuated, because pronounced rectilinear pivot axis can be realized.

It is particularly favorable if all integrally designed hinges 12 used on the scraper 1 are designed to be movable such that the first and second handle sections 4 and 4a articulated with their help on the holding section 2 are inclined by at least 90 ° (+ / - 10 °) relative to the longitudinal axis L can be folded to the side. If present, this also applies to projections 10, as far as they are also fastened with a hinge 12. Such a configuration simplifies the production decisively, more precisely the shaping of the finished sprayed scraper 1 from the injection mold. The comparison of Fig. 5 and 6 shows, where the problem lies, that it should be avoided:
Would the scraper in the of Fig. 5 injected position shown, then the incisions E (see. Fig. 5a ), at the end of the film hinge 12 is formed and which, extending here perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L, forming an undercut, which prevents the finished scraper 1 can be ejected by a movement parallel to its longitudinal axis L from the injection mold.

The same applies mutatis mutandis to the adjacent stalk sections 4 and their ring sections 5 bounded windows 9a, 9b, see. Fig. 1 , If, however, the handle sections 4, 4a and also possibly existing, also hinged projections 10 in the left Partial picture of the Fig. 6 shown position in which the stem portions 4, 4a of the first and second Abstreiferarme 3, 3a protrude at least approximately at right angles with respect to the longitudinal axis L from the holding portion 2 of the scraper 1, sprayed, then eliminates the undercuts in the shape of the incisions E and the window 9a , 9b and it suffices an injection mold, which usually only in a plane transverse or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L must be divided.

This is shown for a second Abstreiferarm 3a with projection 10th

On the other hand, the said hinging of the handle sections 4, 4 a and / or the projections 10 is already of considerable advantage even if the handle sections 4, 4 a and the projections 10 in the right part of Fig. 6 sprayed end position shown, which they take later on the finished scraper. In this case, then allow the by the below (distally) towards the distal end of the scraper 1 at the angle α inwards on the longitudinal axis L to aligned course of the outer surface and the outer contour and the relevant respective hinge 12 a certain, temporary dodging the stem portions 4, 4a and or the protrusions during molding.

As can be seen, it is preferable that the relevant hinge 12 does not extend along the entire stem portion 4, 4a or the entire foot region of a stem portion 4, 4a, as viewed in the circumferential direction, but instead has a limited extent in the circumferential direction, preferably less than 3 mm.

It is particularly favorable if each stem section 4, 4a only has such a hinge 12, in the circumferential direction Seen centrally at him, as in the Fig. 1 can be seen. The just said applies as a rule also for the projections 10.

Good on the basis of Fig. 1 and 2 It can also be seen that, in addition to the respective hinge 12, two spring elements 13 are attached to each handle section 4, 4a. As a rule, these are positioned symmetrically to the left and to the right of the respective hinge 12.

The spring elements 13 are preferably each designed as an elastic plastic strip which is integrally connected at its one narrow side with the holding portion 2 or its approach and on the other side integral with a stem portion 4, 4a a Abstreifarms 3, 3a is connected. Each spring element 13 generally bridges the gap between the holding section 2 or its projection and the respectively associated handle section 4, 4a or a projection 10, cf. Fig. 2 ,

Preferably, each of the spring elements 13 is curved inside and outside arcuately. Its thickness in the radial direction is usually less than the radial thickness of the scraper 1 itself, usually by at least the factor 3, cf. Fig. 5 ,

It now remains to be explained what is preferably understood by a stem section 4, 4a in the narrower sense and how a further embodiment of the stripper 1, which is not mandatory for the invention but may favor it, may look.

Each of the stem portions 4, 4a preferably has a width which extends over at least 10%, better over at least 15% of the circumference of the holding portion 2, where it merges into the stem portions 4, 4a. As it is best to use the Fig. 2 sees, each stem portion 4, 4a tapers from where it is connected to the holding portion 2, towards its distal end, at the first stem portions 4, towards its respective ring portion 5 - in the sense that it narrows in the circumferential direction becomes. The taper is, however, preferably designed only with restraint and is ideally from the proximal end connected to the holding section 2 to the distal end of less than 20%, better than 15%, since this is the only way to avoid that the proximal region of the stem section 4, 4a too rigid and / or the distal region becomes too yielding, so it lacks the necessary uniformity of bending elasticity. Preferably, each of the stem portions 4, 4a is slightly curved, usually so that the longitudinal axis L remote from the outer surface of the stem portion 4, 4a is convexly curved in the circumferential direction and optionally the longitudinal axis L facing inner surface of the stem portion 4, 4a is also concavely curved in the circumferential direction , Preferably, the stem portions 4, 4a are not twisted with respect to the longitudinal axis L, in the sense that they wind around the longitudinal axis L in the manner of a helix.

At its distal end, each of the first handle sections 4 merges into its annular section 5.

The entirety of - in this first embodiment in a common, orthogonal to the longitudinal axis L aligned plane - ring sections 5 forms the actual wiper lip, that is the actual area of the scraper 1, which unfolds the majority of the intended action of the scraper 1 and the at Removing the applicator by the scraper 1 strips off superfluous cosmetic and usually in the Reservoir returned. But also the lower, distal edge regions of the second wiper arms 3a exert such an effect, so that basically both wiper arms 3, 3a form a wiper lip.

How best to use the FIG. 2 sees, the extension of each ring portion 5, seen in the circumferential direction, greater than the extension of the corresponding ring portion 5-bearing stem portion 4, also seen in the circumferential direction. For the ring portion 5 forms in each case on both sides of its associated stem portion 4 a ring arm 8, which is connected only on one side to the central part of the ring portion 5 and projects in the circumferential direction on both sides in the manner of a cantilevered only cantilever over the stem portion 4. Preferably, it is understood here by "is greater than" not only an insignificant amount. Rather, it is so that the two ring arms 8 of a ring portion 5 together, seen in the circumferential direction, make up at least 35% and better still at least 50% of the length of the entire ring section 5. Accordingly, they protrude beyond the stem portion 4. As a rule, it will be so that the free ends of the ring arms 8 are each outside the bottom surface of their respective stem portion 4 - when projecting in the direction along the outer surface of or the stem sections 4. Even where the latter is not true, the ring arms 8 protrude in any case the gap formed between two first stem sections 4 - viewed in projection along the longitudinal axis L.

The combination of each first stem portion 4 and the annular portion 5 formed thereon is usually designed to correspond to the forearm support of a crutch extending upwardly away from the handle.

Each of the first and second handle sections 4, 4a is usually hinged so that it can move more than insignificantly in radially outward direction. Ideally, the distal end of each stem portion 4, 4a, in particular where the transition takes place in the ring portion 5, under the intended forces during stripping forces by more than 0.8 mm and better still by more than 1.2 mm in radial Move direction elastic-reversible outwards. In this way, one obtains a particularly resilient wiper lip, but which is still very well able to cling to the trim of the applicator, the latter because of the design of individual parts of the wiper lip as a ring section. In the preferred embodiment shown here, two first Abstreiferarme 3, each with a ring section 5 are provided. Together, these two ring sections 5 form an almost complete circle (cf. Fig. 1 and 4 ), that is, they cover preferably at least 300 ° of a full circle, with a coverage of at least 330 ° is highly desirable.

Good to see that the ring arms 8 and the rest of the associated ring portion 5 each form a common, flat distal end face.

Ideally, the ring arms 8 and the remainder of a respectively associated ring section 5 and preferably also the outer surface of the stem sections 4 have an identical curvature in the circumferential direction.

It should also be noted that the ring arms 8 are also designed to be extremely narrow in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis L, their maximum extent DR in this direction is preferably 3.5 mm, better still only 2.5 mm, cf. Fig. 5 ,

Since the scraper 1 is usually made of an elastic plastic, the ring arms 8 have due to its ability to move under the intended purpose of stripping during loading more than insignificant relative to the stem portion 4 in the radial direction outward. By an insignificant shift is meant that displacement which is inherently unavoidable by virtue of the inherent elasticity of each body. In any case, a displacement of at least 0.8 mm, more preferably at least 1.5 mm, is understood to mean a displacement that is more than insubstantial.

Good on the basis of Fig. 1 It can be seen that of two adjacent ring sections 5, the associated stem sections 4 and the holding section 2, a window 9a, 9b is bounded, which connects the interior of the scraper 1 otherwise circumferentially enclosed inside with the space on the peripheral outer side. Such a window prevents the otherwise dreaded "blobb effect".

In this window, preferably protrudes into a projection 10, which is part of a second Abstreiferarms 3a, which is connected on one side to the holding portion 2 and protrudes from this in the manner of a cantilever. In this case, the extent of each second stem portion 4a of each second Abstreiferarms 3a with the projection 10, seen in the circumferential direction, smaller than the extension of each stem portion 4. Preferably, the second Abstreiferarm 3a along its entire extent in the direction of the longitudinal axis of a circumferentially constant or at least essentially constant width (+/- 7.5%).

The hinge attachment of the projection 10 having the second Abstreiferarms 3a on the holding section 2 by means of a hinge 12 helps that the projection 10 having the second Abstreiferarm 3a under the influence of the intended forces occurring during application forces more than slightly insignificant reversible-flexible can shift in radially outward direction. In any case, "more than negligible" means a displacement of the free, distal end of the projection by at least 0.7 mm, better still by at least 1 mm.

In this case, the protrusion 10 having second Abstreiferarm 3a covers the per se free surface of the window 9a, 9b by far not quite. How to be good on the basis of Fig. 1 sees, at least 45%, better even at least 55% of the imaginary window area really remain free.

The second scraper arm 3a has in any case the task of acting as a "Hilfsabstreifer" for the applicator handle, in turn stripping that narrow portion of the stem, which otherwise passes through the gap between two immediately adjacent ring arms 8, without stripped, ie from the to be freed from him on the cosmetic, cf. Fig. 1 that illustrates that. The second scraper arm 3a thus ensures that the entire circumference of the handle is stripped off.

Optionally, the second scraper arm 3a - with a corresponding structural design - have the function, in particular during re-filling of the applicator, for a lateral guidance of the applicator, usually a bristle trim to ensure, so that this again the ring sections 5 and in particular their ring arms caught. It is thus according to the invention that means (here in the form of the projections 10 bearing second Abstreiferarme 3 a) are present, which cause a handle cover of at least and better than more than 360 °, so that the stem is stripped clean all around.

The second scraper arm 3a terminates, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis L, in a viewing direction aligned with the distal end above the annular sections 5 of the first scraper arms 3. Preferably, the annular sections 5 overlap the distal end of the second scraper arms 3a, as seen in the circumferential direction, without touching them which promotes the effect just mentioned. How to be good at comparing Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 sees, the scraper 1 according to the invention preferably has two second scraper arms 3a and thus id
R. also two windows 9a, 9b.

How to look very carefully on the basis of Fig. 5 it can be seen that it is preferable that each second wiper arm 3a carries at its distal end a projection 10 projecting radially inwards with a lip 11 projecting radially inwards at its distal end, which preferably contributes to the wiping result.

In many cases, the holding portion 2 will have a stop collar 6, with which it rests in the fully assembled state against the end face of a container opening. In addition, it will often be the case that the holding section 2 has a latching element which allows its positive fixing in the interior of the container opening, where there is a complementary latching element. In the present embodiment, the locking member is designed as a locking bead 7.

Preferably, the scraper 1, seen in the direction of its longitudinal axis L, divided into two sections. The first section of the scraper 1 forms the said holding section 2. The second section of the scraper consists of the first or second scraper arms 3, 3a. The first and the second section preferably have the same or approximately the same length in the direction of the longitudinal axis L with a difference of up to 30%.

The second portion of the scraper 1 is preferably formed conically or inclined, as the FIG. 1 shows. A cone angle α of 7.5 ° to 15 ° relative to the wiper longitudinal axis L is particularly useful, cf. Fig. 6 ,

As can be seen, the holding section 2 merges into preferably at least two first handle sections 4 and two second handle sections 4a, which project from it in the direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L in the manner of cantilevered beams.

The Fig. 8 to 10 show a second embodiment of the invention.

The hinges 12 and the spring elements 13 are here indicated in each case only by a dashed line, they are not shown in the drawing. But they have exactly the same shape as the hinges 12 and spring elements 13, of the Fig. 1 to 5 to be shown.

• insoweit sind das erste und zweite Ausführungsbeispiel identisch.

This scraper 1 is also constructed of two sections, one of which is the holding section 2 already described in detail above

• In that regard, the first and second embodiments are identical.

The second section, the length of which is marked by the distal end of the longest second scraper arm 3, is here also the same or substantially the same length as the holding section 2.

However, the second section is formed here by at least three and preferably only three first scraper arms 3.

For each individual first wiper arm 3 as such and its components as such, what has already been said above for the first wiper arms 3 applies. In particular, it is also here so that each Abstreiferarm 3 consists of a stem portion 4, which has a ring portion 5 which comprises two ring arms 8, which protrude in the circumferential direction on the type cantilevered cantilever over the respective stem portion 4. Preferably, also in this embodiment, the lengths of the ring sections 5 in the circumferential direction are the same.

However, the first wiper arms 3 of this embodiment are different from those of the first embodiment insofar as they all have a different length in the direction of the wiper longitudinal axis L. The ring sections 5 of the first scraper arms 3 thereby form a kind of staircase. If one proceeds in a direction from the bottom ring portion 5 in the circumferential direction, then the next immediately adjacent ring portion 5 is positioned one piece above the preceding ring element 5 until it reaches the shortest Abstreiferarm 3, then the longest Abstreiferarm immediately adjacent is progressing in the same circumferential direction.

Immediately adjacent ring sections 5 preferably overlap, usually without touching each other. This means that the ring arms 8 of two immediately adjacent Abstreiferarme 3 in projection along the Abstreiferlängsachse L at least partially superposed.

Between each annular arm 8 of a Abstreiferarms 3 and the stem portion 4 of the immediately adjacent longer Abstreiferarms 3 preferably a narrow gap remains free, which increases in the ideal case in the vicinity of the Halteabscnitts 2, where only the two stem portions 4 are immediately adjacent. Between two immediately adjacent Abstreiferarmen 3 therefore preferably a window 9 remains free, the shape of which one can preferably describe as "shape of the numeral 6" and / or "shape of a mirror-inverted digit 6".

As can be seen quite well, the longest and the shortest stem portion 4 differ in their length in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis L by about 50%, preferably by 50% +/- 5%.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

• 1 scraper
• 2 holding section
• 3, 3a Scraper arm
• 4, 4a handle section
• 5 ring section
• 6 stop collar
• 7 locking bead
• 8 ring arm
• 9, 9a, 9b windows
• 10 lead
• 11 lip of the projection
• 12 hinge
• 13 spring element
• 14 Local flattening distal below a hinge
• 15 thin spot
• L longitudinal axis or wiper longitudinal axis
• α cone angle of the second section (stem sections 4, 4a)
• DR extension of a ring arm 8 in the direction of the longitudinal axis L.
• WS wall thickness hinge
• WU wall thickness in the immediate vicinity of the hinge.
• E cut in the area (to form the film hinge).
  RK radius.

Claims (13)

1. A wiper (1) for wiping a cosmetic applicator, having a first component, in particular a holding section (2), for affixing the wiper (1) to a cosmetic receptacle, and having at least two wiper arms (3, 3a), which are positioned thereon and perform a wiping action; at least one of the wiper arms (3, 3a) is fastened to the first component, in particular the holding section (2), by means of at least one hinge (12), characterized in that the at least one hinge (12), preferably all of the hinges (12) is/are respectively associated with at least one spring element (13), which presses the respective wiper arm (3, 3a) in the direction toward its closed position.
2. The wiper (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one hinge (12) is embodied in the form of a local thin place (15).
3. The wiper (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the at least one hinge (12) is embodied in the form of a film hinge.
4. The wiper (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each of the wiper arms (3, 3a) is hinged to the first component, in particular the holding section (2), by means of only a single hinge (12) and each respective hinge (12) is preferably positioned centrally on the respective wiper arm (3, 3a) relative to the dimension of the respectively associated wiper arm (3, 3a) in the circumference direction.
5. The wiper (1) according to claim 1 characterized in that the at least one spring element (13) is an elastic strip, which - relative to the wiper longitudinal axis (L) and in the direction toward the distal end of the wiper (1) - is connected to the holding section (2) before the at least one hinge (12), preferably all of the hinges (12), and is connected to the wiper arm (3, 3a) after the respective hinge (12).
6. The wiper (1) according to claim 1 or 5, characterized in that the at least one spring element (13) has a curvature, in particular a constant or steady one, whose center of curvature or centers of curvature lies/lie between the at least one spring element (13) and the wiper longitudinal axis (L).
7. The wiper (1) according to one of claims 1, 4, 5, or 6, characterized in that on one wiper arm (3, 3a), preferably on each of them, a hinge (12) is provided, which is positioned in the middle, viewed in the circumference direction, and a respective spring element (13) is positioned next to the respective hinge (12) on both sides of it, viewed in the circumference direction.
8. The wiper (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one, preferably all, of the wiper arms (3, 3a) is/are embodied as being able to fold outward by an angle of at least 90° relative to the longitudinal axis (L).
9. The wiper (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least a part, preferably half, of all of the wiper arms (3) - in particular, every second wiper arm (3) in alternation in the circumference direction of the holding section (2) - has a wand section (4) with a ring section (5) formed onto its distal end and this ring section's dimension in the circumference direction is greater than the dimension of the wand section (4).
10. The wiper (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is produced by means of injection molding or by means of a 3D printing process.
11. A method for producing a wiper (1) according to one of the preceding claims, which has a first component, in particular a holding section (2), for affixing the wiper (1) to a cosmetic receptacle, and has at least two wiper arms (3, 3a), which are positioned thereon and perform a wiping action, by means of injection molding in such a way that the at least two wiping action-performing wiper arms (3, 3a) on the one hand and the first component, in particular the holding section (2), on the other hand are injection molded in a position in which they are folded away from each other, which does not correspond to the position that the first component, in particular the holding section (2), and the at least two wiping action-performing wiper arms (3, 3a) assume relative to each other during the intended use of the wiper (1) and the at least two wiping action-performing wiper arms (3, 3a) are each connected by means of at least one hinge (12) to the first component, in particular the holding section (2), and after the removal of the wiper (1) from the injection mold, the at least two wiping action-performing wiper arms (3, 3a) pivot or are pivoted, preferably automatically, relative to each other and to the first component, in particular the holding section (2), into the position that they assume relative to each other in the unstressed state during the intended use of the wiper (1).
12. A method for producing a wiper (1) according to one of claims 1 through 10, which has a first component, in particular a holding section (2), for affixing the wiper (1) to a cosmetic receptacle, and has at least two wiper arms (3, 3a), which are positioned thereon and perform a wiping action, by means of injection molding in such a way that the at least two wiping action-performing wiper arms (3, 3a) on the one hand and the first component, in particular the holding section (2), on the other hand are injection molded in a position relative to each other that at least essentially corresponds to the position that the first component, in particular the holding section (2), and the at least two wiping action-performing wiper arms (3, 3a) assume relative to each other during the intended use of the wiper (1) and the at least two wiping action-performing wiper arms (3, 3a) are each connected by means of at least one hinge (12) to the first component, in particular the holding section (2), and the hinges (12) permit an at least slight tilting of the respectively hinged or articulated wiper arms (3, 3a) as the wiper (1) is being removed from the injection mold.
13. A cosmetic unit having a cosmetic receptacle, an applicator, a closing cap, and a wiper (1) mounted in the neck or withdrawal opening of the cosmetic receptacle for wiping cosmetic compound from the applicator, wherein the wiper (1) is embodied according to one of claims 1 through 10 and/or is produced using a method according to claim 11 or 12.

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