WO2012077814A1

WO2012077814A1 - Cosmetic case for makeup and a method of making the same

Info

Publication number: WO2012077814A1
Application number: PCT/JP2011/078634
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ostrowiecki Morris
Original assignee: Ostrowiecki Morris
Priority date: 2010-12-06
Filing date: 2011-12-05
Publication date: 2012-06-14

Abstract

Presently, there are many cosmetic beauty cases on the market. Some of these cases try to include all of the beauty products woman use. But none of the cases succeed in doing so in an elegant way as disclosed in the present invention.

Description

DESCRIPTION

TITLE OF INVENTION: COSMETIC CASE FOR MAKEUP AND A METHOD OF MAKING THE SAME

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

Most women use makeup to try to look more beautiful regardless of how beautiful they are. And most woman carry makeup in their bag for periodically re-applying the makeup. Because of the numerous beauty products presently on the market, such as foundation, concealer, cheek, lip cream, eye shadow, eye-liner, eye brow, mascara, etc., (hereinafter referred to as beauty products) as well as the brushes and pads used for applying these beauty products, women end up carrying numerous containers (hereinafter referred to as cosmetic cases, beauty cases or cases) in their bag each case housing one or more beauty products, resulting in a bulky, heavy, cumbersome situation of multiple cases. Furthermore, since these beauty products are all contained in many cases, in order to apply all these beauty products at any given time, a woman must open and close each case as well as change the case that she is holding at any given moment (since she can only hold one case at a time) requiring much time to apply all the beauty products that the woman desires (i.e. typically from a few minutes up 30 minutes or more).

Furthermore, when a woman buys a given beauty product such as lip cream or eye shadow, the lip cream or eye shadow usually comes in a case having a plurality of different colours of lip cream or eye shadow in it. However, almost always each woman has a preference to a certain colour of lip cream or eye shadow and, accordingly, that preferred colour gets used up and the rest of the colours including the respective cases get thrown away.

Furthermore, while applying a certain beauty product, such as mascara, eye-liner, eye brow, etc., a woman having only two hands would have to let go of the case, place it on the table in front of her and then open the mascara container, or eye-liner container, or eye shadow container using two hands in order to apply the given beauty products to her face.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A major object of the present invention is to overcome the drawbacks mentioned above;

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case which contains all the makeup products women normally use;

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case which contains all the makeup products women normally use and which is small enough to fit into a woman's hand;

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case which contains all the makeup products women normally use and which is small enough to fit into the palm of a woman's hand;

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case small enough to fit into the palm of a woman's hand and which is very ergonomic; Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case small enough to fit into the palm of a woman's hand and which is very user friendly;

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case for storing beauty products women normally use which has a plurality of means for supporting at least one cartridge, each cartridge containing means for storing make-up products;

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case which comprises a male and female case portion which define a compartment therebetween for storing beauty products therein, and which further has a mirror support portion stored between said male and female case portions, said male, female and mirror portions being respectively hinged to each other at one end thereof, respectively, so that the male, female case portions can be opened or closed and said mirror portion can swivel therein;

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case which comprises a male and female case portion which define a compartment therebetween for storing beauty products therein, and which further has a mirror support portion stored between said male and female case portions, said male, female and mirror portions being respectively hinged to each other at one end thereof, respectively, so that the male, female case portions can be opened or closed and said mirror portion can swivel therein, said mirror support portion having a double sided mirror supported therein;

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case which has a plurality of means for supporting a plurality of pallets, each pallet containing means for mounting a plurality of boxes, each box being used for storing a given colour and/or a beauty product therein;

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case which has a plurality of means for supporting a plurality of pallets, said pallets each having means for detachably attaching said pallets to and from said supporting means in said cosmetic case, said attaching detaching means requiring no tools to be attached or removed from said cosmetic case.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case for storing makeup products, which has at least one pallet having a plurality of cavities formed therein into which boxes (hereinafter also referred as dishes) can be mounted in, so that the user has the following options;

1. the user can arrange the dishes containing make up products inside each pallet as he or she desires. Most of the dishes can fit into most of the cavities in each pallet (i.e. eye shadow, lip cream, lip gloss, etc.), thereby allowing the user to arrange the beauty products according to their personal preference.

2. when a given makeup product runs out, the user can replace the empty dish with a full one without having to throw out the entire pallet and/or cosmetic case, making the cosmetic case very versatile, since only a small plastic dish need be thrown away, instead of the entire cosmetic case.

3. when the user decides to change a give pallet with another pallet having different beauty products and/or different colours stored therein, (i.e. to fit the persons mood at that moment, the occasion she or he is going to attend, the colour of clothes she or he is wearing, etc.), the user can do so. Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case comprising a male and female case portions, said case portions being substantially in the shape of a pectin sea shell and having a size which comfortably fits in the palm of a woman's hand, said shell portions having a hinged portions formed along back portions of said male and female portions.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case which contains all the makeup products women normally use and which is small enough to fit into a woman's hand and which comprises two identically shaped and same sized sea shells, each sea shell having a hinge portion for coupling the two sea shells to each other along a back portion thereof, so that only one mold for injecting plastic, or one press mold for pressing a sheet metal can be used for making the cosmetic beauty case;

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case which contains all the makeup products women normally use and which is small enough to fit into the palm of a woman's hand and which comprises two identically shaped and same size seashells, each having male and female hinge portions integrally formed therewith along a rectangular back portion thereof for coupling the two sea shells to each other along a back portion thereof.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case which contains all the makeup products women normally use and which is small enough to fit into a woman's hand and which comprises two identically shaped and same size seashells, each having male and female hinge portions integrally formed therewith along a rectangular back portion of each seashell for coupling the two seashells to each other, the male and female hinge portions being identical in shape and size, and a substantially oval mirror support portion for supporting a mirror therein, said mirror support portion having two leg portions for rotatively being coupled to said shell hinge portions, said legs being slightly further apart, or closer together, than the distance between spaces provided in the hinge portions, so that the mirror can be rotatively supported between said sea shells, said mirror support section being formed from an elastic material such as plastic, stainless steel pressed into the desired shape, etc, whereby said leg portions in said mirror support section have to be manually spread apart, or pushed towards each other, in order to fit in appropriate slots provided in said hinge portions, whereby the elastic nature of said leg portion constantly presses on said hinge portions of said male and female shell portions in the axial direction thereof, to create a constant frictional force therebetween, so that said male case portion, female case portion and said mirror support portion can be opened to any given degree with respect to each other, while being constantly supported at those angles by the frictional force present between said hinge portions 1 lml-1 lm4 and said mirror leg portions 1411, 1412.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a pallet cover for covering the beauty products stored inside the pallet, so that the beauty products do not come out of cavities, compartments or containers in each pallet;

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case for woman which has means for preventing the brushes, mascara, etc., stored therein from falling out,

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case for woman which has means for preventing the brushes, mascara, etc., stored therein from falling out, said falling out preventing means comprising friction storing means for preventing the beauty products from falling out of the case; Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case for woman which has means for preventing the brushes, mascara, etc., stored therein from falling out, said falling out preventing means comprising a magnet stored in the beauty applying means or in the pallets;

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case in the shape of a sea shell which has at least two of its ribs at the same height with respect to the centre of the case thereby preventing the case from wobbling from side to side and embossed alphabets or characters or a company logo printed on the outer side of a case to prevent the case from rocking back and forth when the cosmetic case is placed on a flat surface like a table.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case for housing cosmetic products therein, the case being in the shape of a pectin scallop shell having an outer contour which comfortably fits in the palm of a woman's hand when in the pectin scallop shaped cosmetic case (hereinafter described as the cosmetic case or case) is in the closed position and when the shell shaped case portions are rotated from a closed (clamped position) to an open position, not only does one sea shell fit in the palm of the hand but the hinged portion can be easily clamped between the thumb and the index finger of one hand providing better support of the case in a persons' hand, while the other hand can be used for applying makeup, the compartment between the first and second shell portions defining a space (hereinafter referred to as compartment) in which all the makeup products, brushes, mirror, etc., can be stored;

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic case which fits easily and comfortably in a woman's hand and which has all the makeup products, eye-liner, brushes, mirror, etc., stored therein, and which allows the beauty products, brushes, etc., to be easily reachable at the womans fingertips;

Another object of the present invention is to provide a pallet for a cosmetic case comprising; means for storing a plurality of beauty products therein; means for attaching detaching the cartridge to and from a cosmetic case; and cover means for preventing the beauty products stored in said pallet from coming out.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a makeup case which contains all the makeup products women use therein, and which is small enough to substantially fit into a woman's hand, further comprising pallet covers for each of the respective pallets mounted inside the case, and swivel support means for supporting each cover in each pallet to prevent the beauty products stored in each pallet from coming out of the pallet while allowing easy access to the beauty products stored in each pallet;

Another object of the present invention is to provide a makeup case for housing a plurality of pallets, each having a cover for preventing the beauty products stored in each pallet from coming out of or moving around in the pallet, and biasing means for causing the cover to be forced closed when the shell portions are swung closed (i.e. towards each other), whereby the makeup products are prevented from falling out of each of the pallets when the case is in the closed state, whereby the inner surfaces of the case are kept clean of all the makeup products inside the case are prevented from shifting or moving around due to shaking of the case inside a woman's purse while she is walking, etc. Another object of the present invention is to provide a makeup case which contains all the makeup products women use and which is small enough to fit into a woman's hand, further containing a plurality of brushes for applying the independent make up products, each of the brushes being extendable and retractable, so that in the stored state of the case, any makeup product residue remaining on the brushes does not cause the inside of the case to become dirty;

Another object of the present invention is to provide a makeup case which contains all the makeup products women use and which is small enough to fit into a woman's hand containing a brush holder for supporting a plurality of brushes inside the case;

Another object of the present invention is to provide a makeup case which contains all the makeup products women use and which is small enough to fit into a woman's hand containing a brush holder for supporting a plurality of brushes inside the case, the brush holder being able to swivel with respect to the male and female shell case portions;

Another object of the present invention is to provide an eye-liner applying holder device which is very thin, short and which holds a relatively long eye-line crayon relative to the size of the device;

Another object of the present invention is to provide a eye brow applying holder device which is very thin, short and which holds a relatively long eye-line crayon relative to the size of the device;

Another object of the present invention is to provide a makeup case and a method of making the same, where the case is formed: a) from plastic using conventional injection molding techniques; b) metal using conventional press machines.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:

Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of the cosmetic case 10 in the open position according to the present invention;

Fig. 2 shows a side view of the cosmetic case 10 in the open position according to the present invention;

Fig. 3 A shows a top perspective view of the shell portion 11 of the case 10 according to the present invention;

Fig. 3B shows a bottom perspective view of the shell portion 11 of the case 10 according to the present ;

Fig. 3C-3E show a top view, a bottom view and a side view of the shell portion 11 of the case 10 according to the present;

Fig. 3F shows an enlarged perspective view of the shell portion 11 indicated by dash lines shown in Fig. 3D;

Figs. 4A-4D show a perspective view, a front view, a side view and a bottom view of a first embodiment of a mirror support portion 14 for the cosmetic case 10 according to the present invention; Figs. 4E, 4F show enlarged views at dash lines A, B in Fig. 4B;

Figs. 5A-5D show a perspective view, a front view, a side view and a bottom view of a second embodiment of a mirror support portion 140 for the cosmetic case 10 according to the present invention;

Figs. 6A-6E show a perspective view, a front view, a top view, a bottom view and an end view of a brush support portion 15 according to the present invention;

Figs. 7A-7C show a perspective view, a top view, and a side view of the brush support portion 15 mounted in the container portion 11 according to the present invention;

Figs. 8A-8D show a perspective view, a top view, a bottom view, and a side view of a pallet 20 according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

Figs. 8E, 8F show enlarged views of the pallet 20 inside dash lines B, B in Figs 8D, 8B, respectively;

Figs. 9A-9D show a perspective view, a top view, a bottom view, and a side view of a pallet 21 according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

Figs. 10A-10D show a perspective view, a top view, a bottom view, and a side view of a pallet 22 according to another embodiment of the present invention;

Figs. 11 A-l ID show a perspective view, a top view, a bottom view, and a side view of a pallet 23 according to another embodiment of the present invention;

Figs. 12A-12B show a front and back perspective views of a box 50 in the open position to be inserted in the holes 23cl, 23ml for storing individual make up products according to a further embodiment of the present invention;

Figs. 12C-12D show a front and back perspective views of a box 50 in the closed position;

Figs. 12E-12H show a front, top, back and end view of the box 50 in the closed position;

Figs. 12I-12M show a perspective view, a top view, a bottom view, a front view, and an end view of the bottom portion 51 of the box 50;

Fig. 13A shows a front view of a double sided mirror 13m for mounting inside the mirror support portion 14;

Fig. 13B shows a front view of a double sided mirror 13m for mounting inside the mirror support portion 140;

Figs. 14A-14D show a top views of a pallet 24 formed of a sheet of metal from a first to fourth steps of manufacturing using sheet metal press forming techniques according to the present invention;

Figs. 14E-14F show perspective views of the pallet 24 in the fourth and fifth steps of manufacturing according to the present invention;

Figs. 15 A- 15 D show perspective view, a top view, a front view and an end view of a pallet cover 30 for mounting on the pallets 20-24 according to the present invention; Figs. 15E-15F show perspective views of the pallet cover 30 mounted in the pallet 21 in the partially open and closed positions, respectively, according to the present invention;

Fig. 15G shows a partial perspective view of the pallet 21 and the cover 30 before mounting the cover 30 in the pallet 21;

Figs. 16A-16D show a perspective view, a top view, a bottom view and a side view of an inner pallet 42 according to another embodiment of the present invention;

Figs. 17A-17D show a perspective view, a top view, a front view, and an end view of a first embodiment of an brush support inner pallet 41 according to the present invention;

Figs. 17E-17G show a perspective view, a top view and a side cross sectional view at lines II-II in Fig. 17F of the pallet 41 mounted inside the shell container 11 ;

Figs. 18A-18D show a perspective view, a top view, a side view, and a end view of a first embodiment of a mascara and cheek brush support inner pallet 40 according another embodiment of the present invention;

Figs. 19A-19E show a perspective view, a top view, a side view, a front end view and a back end view of a cosmetic brush handle portion 45 according to the present invention;

Fig. 19F shows a top view of the brush handle 45 having a sleeve 46, brush bristles 47 and a magnet 48 mounted thereon according to the present invention;

Figs. 20A-20E show a perspective view, a front view, a side view, a front end view and a back end view of a cheek brush handle according to the present invention;

Fig. 20F shows a side cross sectional view at line II-II of the cheek handle portion 60 further having bristles 61 and a magnetic metal plate 62 mounted therein according to the present invention;

Fig. 20G shows a front view of the cheek brush handle 60 with the bristles 61 mounted therein;

Figs. 21 A-21 C show perspective views of a mascara case 70 according to the present invention;

Fig. 21D shows a perspective cross sectional view at lines II-II of Fig. 21 A of the mascara case 71 ;

Figs. 22A-22D show a perspective view a front view, a side view and an end view of a retractable brush holder 90 according to the present invention with the brush 90 in the retracted position;

Figs. 23A-23D show a perspective view a front view, a side view and an end view of a retractable brush holder 90 according to the present invention with the brush 90 in the extended position;

Figs. 24A-24D show a perspective view a front view, a side view and an end view of an inner portion 92 of a retractable brush holder 90 according to the present invention with the brush 90 in the retracted position;

Figs. 25A-25D show a perspective view, a front view, a side view and an end view of an outer portion 91 of a retractable brush holder 90 according to the present invention with the brush 90 in the retracted position; Fig. 26A show a side view of a eye-liner applying device 80 according to the present invention;

Fig. 26B shows a side cross sectional view of the eye-liner applying device 80 at line II-II of Fig. 26 A;

Fig. 26C-26D shows a perspective cross sectional view of the eye-liner applying device 80 at line II-II of Fig. 26A with the lead support portion 83 in the fully extended and fully retracted position;

Figs. 27A-27D show a perspective view, a side view, a front end view and a back end view of a outer case portion

81 of the eye-liner applying device 80;

Fig. 27E shows a side cross sectional view at lines II-II of Fig. 27B of the outer case portion 81 of the eye-liner applying device 80;

Figs. 28A-28D show a perspective view, a side view, a front end view and a back end view of a outer tip portion

82 of the eye-liner applying device 80;

Fig. 28E shows a side cross sectional view at lines II-II of Fig. 28B of the outer tip portion 82 of the eye-liner applying device 80;

Figs. 29A-29C show a side view, a front end view and a back end view of a inner lead support portion 83 of the eye-liner applying device 80;

Fig. 29D shows a side cross sectional view at lines II-II of Fig. 29A of the lead support portion 83 of the eye-liner applying device 80;

Figs. 30A-30D show a perspective view, a front view, a side view and an end view of a eye-shadow applying device 35 according to the present invention;

Figs. 31 A-3 ID show a perspective view, a front view, a side view and an end view of a main body portion 36 of the eye-shadow applying device 35;

Fig. 3 IE shows a side cross sectional view at lines II-II of Fig. 3 IB of the main body portion 36; and

Figs. 32A-32D show a perspective view, a front view, a side view and an end view of a tip portion 37 of the eye-shadow applying device 35;

Fig. 33A shows a partial perspective view of the shells 11 in a back to back partially assembled position;

Fig. 33B shows a partial perspective view of the shells 11 in a back to back assembled position with the mirror support portion 14 assembled therewith;

Figs. 34A-34D show a perspective view, a front view, a side view and an end view of a main body portion 360 of the eye-shadow applying device 35 according to another embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 35A shows a perspective view of a cosmetic case in an open state according to a further embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 35B shows a perspective view of a shell 110 according to another embodiment of the present invention; and

Fig. 35C shows a perspective view of a container 200 for storing a sponge like pad for applying foundation powder to the face of a person.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS:

Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of the cosmetic case 10 in the open position according to the present invention. Fig. 2 shows a side view of the cosmetic case 10 in the open position according to the present invention. Fig. 3 A shows a top perspective view of the shell portion 11 of the case 10 according to the present . Fig. 3B shows a bottom perspective view of the shell portion 11 of the case 10 according to the present. Fig. 3C-3E show a top view, a bottom view and a side view of the shell portion 11 of the case 10 according to the present. Fig. 3F shows an enlarged perspective view of the shell portion 11 indicated by dash lines A-A shown in Fig. 3D.

Referring to Fig. 1-3, numeral 10 generally designates a cosmetic case for supporting multiple pallets, each pallet containing multiple beauty products therein. The case 10 comprises two shell portions 11 and 12 each of which has an outer surface 1 lu, 12u, and an inner surface 11 i, 12i, respectively. The shell portions 11 and 12 preferably have the same size and same shape and are each formed in the shape of a pectin scallop shell (hereinafter referred to as shell portions 11, 12 or shells 11, 12), so that when the shell portions 11, 12 are placed against each other with their inner surfaces Hi, 12i facing each other, the case 10 looks exactly like the pectin scallop shell from outside while providing a compartment 15 for storing multiple pallets containing multiple beauty products therein.

Since the shells 11 and 12 are identical in shape and size, only the shell 11 will be described herebelow.

The shell portion 11, similarly to the pectin scallop shell, comprises a substantially oval shape portion 11c (i.e. when viewed from the bottom or the top of the shell portion 11) and a rectangular portion 1 lr integrally formed with the oval shaped shell portion 11c along a back portion of the oval shaped portions 11c.

Numeral 1 lx, 1 ly designate a plurality of ridges and grooves formed along the surface of the shell portion 11 in alternating fashion, thereby forming a corrugated like surface providing extra strength while allowing the thickness of the shell portion 11 to be relatively thin and, accordingly, lighter and stronger.

The grooves 1 lx and ridges 1 ly extend from the centre of the rectangular portion 1 lr (hereafter referred to as the back end portion or back portion of the shell portion 11) to the front end of the shell portion 11 in a V shaped formation, similar to the way found on pectin scallop shells. This corrugated like surface 1 lc not only provides a much stronger structure for the shell portion 11 (as compared to a flat surface), but also allows the shell portion 11 to be thinner and lighter, resulting in less material and, accordingly, less cost, while providing a larger space inside the shell portion 11, 12 which allows for more beauty products to be stored therein while at the same time requiring less space for the user to carry the cosmetic case 10 in their bag.

Furthermore, this corrugated like surface also provides a non-slippery surface (i.e. not a smooth), so that, when a woman is holding the case 10 in one hand, the case 10 does not easily slip out of the woman's hand while she is applying makeup with the other hand. Still further, when the case 10 is supported in a woman's hand, one shell portions 11 or 12 can be supported in the palm of the woman's hand while the other shell portion 12 or 11 is supported by the woman's index and thumb fingers while the square back portions 1 lr and 12r, being narrower than the oval portions 11c, 12c, act like a neck portion which are supported between the thumb and index finger of a woman's hand and the palm portion of a woman's hand, making the pectin shell shaped container very ergonomic, (i.e. fits comfortably in a woman's hand) while the neck like square portions 1 lr, 12r further allow the shell to be securely held in the woman's hand to prevent the container 10 from slipping out of the woman's hand. Still further, since the shell portions 11 and 12 are identical, once the woman is finished applying all the beauty products inside the pallets stored in one of the shell portions 11 or 12, she can very easily flip the case 10 around in her hand so that she can start applying the rest of the beauty products in the pallets inside the other shell portion 12, or 11 , respectively.

Numeral 11 w designates a wall portion integrally formed with the inner surface 11 i of the shell portions 11 along the periphery thereof. However, the wall portions 11 w extends slightly inwards from the periphery of the central portions 11c along the front end thereof for allowing a woman to more easily open the case 10. The wall portions 1 lw is substantially perpendicular to the inner surface 1 li of the shell portion 11 and provides extra strength as well as a water tight enclosure for the cosmetic products to be stored inside the case 10. The wall portion 11 w also increases the space between the shell portions 11 and 12 so that more cosmetic products can be stored in the case 10.

The shell portion 11 further comprises hinge portion 11m integrally formed with the wall portion 11 w along the back end thereof. The hinge portions 11m comprises a plurality of cylindrical sleeves portions 11ml, 1 lm2, 1 lm3 and 1 lm4 each having the same length. The distance between the sleeve portions 1 lm2 and 1 lm3 is the same as the length of each sleeve portion and the distance between the sleeve portions 11ml and 1 lm2 as well as the distance between the sleeve portions 1 lm3 and 1 lm4 is twice the length of each sleeve portion. Furthermore, the sleeve portions are formed to be off-centre with respect to the centre of the back portion 1 lr, so that when two shell portions are place on top of each other, the sleeve portion 11ml -1 lm4 fit in next to each other.

The sleeve portions 1 lml-1 lm4 each have a cylindrical hole formed therethrough in the axial direction thereof for receiving a pin therein. The pin (not shown) couples the two shell portions to each other while allowing them to rotate with respect to each other from a closed position to an open position.

It should be noted that with the hinge 1 lm of the present invention, the shells portions 11, 12 cannot be opened passed 180 degrees with respect to each other. This allows the case 10 to be laid flat on top of a flat surface such as a table while preventing the beauty products stored inside the case 10 from falling out of the case 10.

Furthermore, since distance between the sleeve portions 11ml and 1 lm2 as well as the distance between the sleeve portions 1 lm3 and 1 lm4 is twice the length of each sleeve portions 1 lml-1 lm4, when the shell portion 11 and 12 are assembled, there is a gap between the hinge portion 11ml and 1 lm2 as well as the sleeve portions 1 lm3 and 1 lm4 equal to the length of each sleeve portion, allowing the leg portions 1411 and 1412 of a mirror support 14 to fit therein and to be hinged therewith.

The shell portions 11, 12 can be formed from plastic using conventional injection forming techniques using materials such as polypropelene, poly-carbonate, etc., or materials used in making conventional cosmetic cases.

Alternatively, the shell portions 11, 12 can be made of stainless steel using conventional press forming techniques. To form the shells 11, 12 using metal press forming techniques, first a sheet of stainless steel is cut and then pressed to form the desired shape and then the hinge portions are formed using conventional hinge forming techniques well known in the art of hinge forming. This provides for a very strong and cheap cosmetic case 10. The holes for supporting the pallets in the cosmetic case 10 can be formed during the press forming step or by drilling the holes using a drill.

Numerals 1 lhl, 1 lh2 designate a pair of holes formed in the wall portion 11 w at diagonally opposing sides of the rectangular back portion 1 lr. The holes 1 lhl, llh2 are provided for supporting a brush holder portion 15 as well as pallets 20, 21, 22, 23 and/or 24 as will be described more fully hereinafter.

Numeral 1 In designates a pair of round sleeve portions integrally formed with the inner surface 1 li of the shell 11 along the back end of the shell 11 at diagonally opposing sides thereof. The cylindrical portions 1 In are provided for supporting a plurality of inner pallets 40, 41, and/or 42 as will be described more fully hereinafter.

Numeral 1 lpl, 1 lp2 and 1 lp3 designates a plurality of round protrusion formed around the holes 1 lhl, 1 lh2 and 1 lh3, respectively, and are provided for providing friction between the shell portions 11, 12 and the pallets mounted therein, so that the pallets do not flap around as the woman uses the case to apply makeup.

Figs 8A-8D shows a perspective view, a front view, a back view and a side view of a pallet 20 according to the present invention. The pallet 20 is made of plastic using conventional injection molding techniques. Or from a resilient type of metal using conventional press forming machines.

Referring to the Figs. 8A-8D, numeral 20b designates a flat plate portion which is shaped substantially in the shape of a pectin shell when viewed from the top. Namely, the flat plate portion 20b comprises a semi round front portion 20b 1 and a rectangular back portion 20b2. Numeral 20c designates a plurality of downwardly facing cavities (hereinafter referred to as compartments 20c) integrally formed in the front plate portion 20b 1 of the plate portion 20. The compartments 20c are provided for storing a plurality of beauty products, such as lip cream, mascara, etc.

Numeral 20m designates a downwardly facing compartment formed in the plate portion 20b 1 at a central portion of the pallet 20. The compartment 20m is preferably used for storing foundation powder. Since a woman usually applies more foundation than, lets say lip cream, the compartment for storing foundation should preferably be larger. Also, since the central part of the shell 11 is deeper, the compartment 20m can be formed to be deeper than the other compartments 20c.

Numeral 20w designates an upwardly facing wall portion integrally formed with the plate portion 20b along the periphery thereof and numeral 20r designates a flat outwardly extending rim portion integrally formed with the wall portion 20w along the upper edge of the wall portion 20w.

When the pallet 20 is placed inside the shell portion 11, the outwardly extending rim portion 20r fits inside the wall portion 11 w formed in the shell portion 11. Numeral 20h designates a pair of holes formed in the back portion of the wall portion 20w on diagonally opposing sides thereof. The holes 20h are provided for supporting a pallet cover 30 for preventing the beauty products stored in the compartments 20c and 20m in the pallet 20 from spilling out of the pallet 20 as well as for preventing the beauty products in a given compartment 20c from mixing with the beauty products in another compartment 20c or 20m from mixing with each other.

Numeral 20s designates a pair of vertical protrusions (hereinafter referred to as stoppers 20) integrally formed with the rim 20r along the back portion of the pallet 20. The stoppers 20s are provided for preventing the arms 20a from being bent beyond the stoppers 20s, so as to prevent the user from accidentally braking off the arms 20a by accidentally applying to much force.

Numeral 20t designates an upwardly facing semi spherical protrusion (hereinafter referred to as tab 20t) formed in the front end of the rim portion 20r of the pallet 20 and is provided for lifting the pallet 20 out of the shell 11 as will be more fully described hereafter.

Figs 8E and 8F show a side enlarged view and a top enlarged view of section A shown in dash lines B in Fig. 8B. Referring to the Figs., numeral 20a designates a pair of substantially rectangular arms a portion of the lower front end 20j of which is integrally formed with the respective edges of the rim 20r of the pallet 20. The arms 20a are formed on diagonally opposing sides of the rim portion 20r along the back end thereof. Numeral 20p designates a round, semi-spherical outwardly facing protrusion integrally formed with each arm portion 20a along the back end 20b of the arm 20a. Numeral 20s designates a slot formed between the bottom back end 20b of the arm 20a and the top surface of the rim 20r. The slot 20s extends from the back end 20b of the arm 20a partially towards the front end 20f of the arm 20b. Since the pallet 20 is formed of a resilient plastic or metal material, the backwardly extending portions of the arms 20a (i.e. where the protrusions 20p are formed), can be pushed towards each other using the thumb and index fingers, thereby allowing the pallet 20 to be attached to or removed from the shell portions 11 or 12.

The thickness of the pallet 20 is preferably between 0.5-1.0mm and the plate portion 20b is kept stiff (i.e. to keep the pallet 20 from warping) mostly by the wall portion 20w and the compartments 20c, 20m. In other words, most of the strength of the pallet 20 is derived from the irregular shape of the surface of the pallet 20.

Furthermore, the irregular surface of the pallet 20 provides for a good fit for the pallet inside the irregular shaped pectin shell portions 11, 12. Furthermore, the wall portion 20w of the irregular surface shaped pallet 20 provides a mounting means for the cover 30 as well as a storage space for the cover 30 to fit in without increasing the thickness of the pallet 20.

Since the space inside the container 11, 12 is rather limited, and since the compartment inside the pectin shaped shell 10 is irregular, in order to include as many beauty products as possible, a multilayer pallet structure is employed. Furthermore, it is possible to snap in and snap out any and all the pallets, not only for allowing the user to change any pallet to any other pallet according to the mood the user is in, the cloth and the occasion to which the user is going, but also, to allow the user to easily clean the inside surface of the shell portions 11, 12. Still further, once the user has used up any of the beauty products in any given pallet, he or she can replace that pallet with another pallet. To mount the pallet 20 in the shell 11 , the pallet 20 is placed inside the shell 11 until the two protrusions

20p in the arms 20a snap into the holes 1 lhl or Hh2 in the shell 20. To remove the pallet 20 from the shell 11, the user can use their index and thumb fingers to press the arms 20a towards each other, thereby releasing the pallet 20 from the shell 11. Alternatively, the user can simply pull on the pallet 20 until the protrusions 20p snap out of the hole llhl or llh2 in the shell 11.

Fig. 15A-15D show a perspective view, a top view, a side view and an end view of the pallet cover 30 according to the present invention.

Referring to Figs. 15A-15D, numeral 30a designates a flat transparent plate which is formed in the shape of the front portion of a pectin shell (i.e., oval shape) when viewed from the top. Numeral 30r designates a semi round rim which is integrally formed on the top surface of the plate 30a along the periphery thereof. The pallet 30 is made of transparent plastic using conventional injection molding techniques and is very thin, i.e., 0.3- 0.5mm thick. Accordingly, the rim 30r serves the purpose of preventing the plate from warping. Numeral 30p designates a pair of round protrusions integrally formed with the plate 30a along the back portion thereof. The protrusions 30p are provided for mounting the cover 30 in the pallet 20 by mounting the protrusions 30p in the holes 20h in the pallet 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24. The bottom side 30b of the cover 30 is perfectly flat, so that the cover 30 can sit flat against the surface 20b of the pallet 20, thereby preventing any of the beauty products in the compartments 20c and 20m from falling out of or moving around inside the pallet 20.

To mount the cover 30 in the pallet 20, the cover 30 is temporarily bent in an arch like shape so that the distance between the two protrusions 30p is slightly decreased. Then the protrusions 30p are placed next to the holes 20h in the pallet 20 and then the cover 30 is released to allow the cover 30 to return to its original flat position, due to the resilient elastic nature of the material used to manufacture the cover 30, thereby causing the protrusions 30p to penetrate into the holes 20h in the pallet 20.

The width of the cover 30 at the point where the protrusions 30p are formed is slightly larger than the distance between the holes 20h in the pallet 20, so that a constant frictional force is generated therebetween, due to the elastic nature of the cover 30. Still further, the pallet 20 has a plurality of semi-spherical protrusions 20p2 formed around the holes 20h which are provided for causing the cover 30 to open in a steps to position the cover in given angles with respect to the pallet 20.

In a preferred embodiment, the compartment 20m is used for storing foundation powder, the compartment 20c for storing three shades of lip cream and for storing three shades of eye shadow powder therein. The foundation compartment 20m is bigger than the other compartments 20c because woman generally use much more foundation powder than they use lip cream on a daily basis.

Figs. 15E, 15F show perspective views of the pallet 21 with the cover 30 mounted therein, and with the cover 30 being in a partially open state and in the closed states, respectively. Referring to the Figs., it can be seen that the cover 30 fits perfectly inside the wall 21 w of the pallet 30 and that the bottom surface of the cover 30 sits flat against the top surface of the plate 21b of the pallet 21, thereby preventing any powder from shifting from one compartment to another compartment in the pallet 20. Furthermore, that the tabs 2 It, 30t of the pallet 21 and the cover 30 are formed at staggered positions with respect to each other, so that the pallet 21 can be lifted out of the shell 11 and so that the cover 30 can be lifted up of the pallet 21, without one motion interfering with the other.

Fig. 14A-14D show a top views of a pallet 24 formed of a sheet of metal from a first to fourth steps of manufacturing using sheet metal press forming techniques according to the present invention. Fig. 14E-14F show perspective views of the pallet 24 in the fourth and fifth steps of manufacturing according to the present invention.

More specifically, Figs. 14A shows a top view of a sheet of metal 24b which has been cut in a shape for forming a pallet 24 according to the present invention. Fig. 14B shows a top view of the sheet of metal 24b after punching a pair of holes 24h and pressing a pair of protrusions 24p into the sheet of metal 24b.

The sheet of metal is made of aluminum, staitnless steel, or any other metal and is made into a pallet 24 using conventional press forming techniques. Referring to the drawing, numeral 24 designates a flat sheet of metal which has been cut in the shape comprising a front portion 24b 1 having a substantially oval shape and a back portion 24b2 having a substantially rectangular shape having a straight back end 24b using conventional press cutting machine. Numeral 24s designates a pair of slots cut into the back end 24b2 of the sheet 24 at opposite sides thereof, numeral 24a designates a pair of rectangular shaped hands which when bent 90 degrees, provide the function of the snap on/off release hands, similar to the arms 20a in the pallet 20. To form the pallet 24, first a sheet of stainless steel is cut in the shape shown in Fig. 14A. Next, a pair of holes 24h are punched out of the sheet 24. The holes 24h are provided for mounting the pallet cover 30. Next, the sheet of metal 24 is pressed to form the desired shape. The hands 24h are formed by bending the outer portions of the thus cut and pressed sheet of steel by 90 degrees. The protrusions 24p in the hands 24h are formed by conventional press forming. This provides for a very strong and cheap container 110. By using a resilient material such as stainless steel, the arms 24a can be very flexible and strong, similar to a stainless steel paper clip.

By using different sets of press molds, any shape of pallet having any shape of cavities for storing beauty products can be realized.

Fig. 9A-9D shows a perspective view, a top view, a bottom view, and a side view of a pallet 21 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The pallet 21 is similar to the pallet 20 and only the difference therebetween will be described herebelow. In the Figs., the same numerals and symbols will be used to describe the same or similar parts.

Referring to the Figs. 9A-9D, numeral 21m designates a compartment formed at a central portion of the pallet 21 and numeral 21c designates a plurality of smaller compartments formed around the central compartment 21m. This configuration allows for optimal utilization of the pallet 21 for storing beauty products. The compartment 21m can be used for storing cheek powder and the compartments 21c can be used to store lip cream and or eyeshadow powder. All the other parts in the pallet 21 are identical to the parts in the pallet 20 and only the numerals have been changed from numeral 20 to numeral 21.

Figs. 10A-10D shows a perspective view, a top view, a side view and an end view of a pallet 22 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The pallet 22 is similar to the pallets 20, 21 and only the difference therebetween will be described herebelow. In the Figs., the same numerals and symbols will be used to describe the same or similar parts. Referring to Figs. 10A-10D, numeral 22m designates a compartment formed in a central portion of the plate 20b 1 for storing cheek cream, numeral 22c designates a plurality of compartments formed in the plate 20b 1 in front of the compartment 22m and numerals 22y designates a pair of compartments formed in the plate 20b 1, each compartment 22y being formed on either side of the compartments 22m and 22c. The compartments 22c can be used to store eyeshadow powder and the compartments 22y are used to store brushes 35 for applying the eyeshadow powders stored in the compartments 22c.

Each of the cavities 22y in the outer template 22 comprises three oval compartments, the central one is provided for storing the body portion 36 and the outer compartments are provided for storing the tips 37 mounted inside the body portion 36. Numeral 22r designates ridges formed between the compartments which are provided for raising the eye-shadow 35 slightly up in the cavity 22y, so that by pressing on one side of the main body portion 36 causes the eye-shadow 35 to twist around in the axial direction thereof for easy removal of the eye-shadow brush 35 from the outer template 22.

Since the deepest part inside the cosmetic case 10 is at the central point in the pectin shell type container 11, 12, it is desirable to store the cheek powder at the centre location of the pallet 22, since the cheek powder is used more than most other beauty products.

Figs. 12A-12B show a front and back perspective views of a box 50 in the open position to be inserted in the holes 23c 1, 23ml for storing individual make up products according to a further embodiment of the present invention. Figs. 12B-D show a front and back perspective views of a box 50 in the closed position. Figs.

12E-12H show a front, top, back and end view of the box 50 in the closed position. Figs. 12I-12M show a perspective view, a top view, a bottom view, a front view, and an end view of the bottom portion 51 of the box 50.

Referring to Figs. 12A-12M, numeral 50 generally designates a box for storing beauty products therein, such as lip cream, eyeshadow, cheek powder, foundation powder, etc. Numeral 51 generally designates a container portion (hereinafter referred to as container 51) and numeral 52 generally designates a cover portion for the container portion 51 (hereinafter referred to as lid 52). The container 51 comprises a smoth inner oval surface having a substantially flat bottom 51b and oval shaped walls 51 w. Numeral 5 lr designates at outwardly facing ridge integrally formed with the container 51 along an upper outer portion thereof. Numeral 51 s 1 , 51 s2 designates a pair of rectangular slot formed in the back and the front portion of the ridge 5 lr, respectively, and numeral 5 lh designates a pair of horizontal holes formed in the ridge 51 r on either side of the back slot 51 s 1. Numeral 511 designates a ridge which extends across the front slot 51s. The ridge 511 is not as wide as the ring 5 lr and provides the function of a latch to snap the lid 52 and the container 51 into a locked position.

The lid portion 52 comprises a flat oval shaped plate 52b having a round ball shaped protrusion 52p integrally formed therewith along a top front portion of the plate 52b. Numeral 52r2 and 52rl designate downwardly facing ridges integrally formed with the bottom surface of the lid 52 along the back and front portions thereof. The back ridge 52rl has a horizontal hole formed therethrough for receiving a pin (not shown) therein. Numeral 521 designates an lip portion integrally formed with the forward ridge 52r2 along the inner extending end thereof.

The width of the ridges 52rl, 52r2 and the respective slots 52sl, 52s2 are the same, so that the ridges 52rl, 52r2 can fit inside the slots 51rl, 51r2, respectively.

To assemble the box 50, the lid 52 is placed over the container 51 with the ridge 52rl fitting inside the slot 51sl and then a pin (not shown) is inserted inside the holes 51 h, 52h to lock the lid 52 to the container 51 which allowing the lid 51 to swivel from a closed position to an open position. The lip 521 slides over the front ridge 511 to snap the box 52 into a locked position. To open the box 50 the pearl shaped protrution 5 lp is pulled upwards to cause the lip 521 to snap out of the ridge 511.

The outer dimensions of the bottom of the container 51 are formed to be the same as the dimensions of the cavities 20c, 20m, 22c, 22m, 23cl, 23ml, etc., so that the boxes 50 can frictionally be supported inside the respective cavities in the pallets 20, 22, 23, etc.

Instead of the protrusion 52p on the lid 52, the front portion of the plate 52b can be formed to slightly protrude past the rim 5 lr of the container 51, so that a person can use their fingertips to lift the lid 51 up and open the box 50.

In the case of using the boxes 50, the bottom surfaces of the cavities 20c, 20m, 2 lc, 2 lm, etc are not required, namely, the bottom of the cavities 20c, 20m, 21c, 21m, of the pallets 20, 21 are open. The size of the box 50 is chosen so that it frictionally fits inside the cavities 20c, 20m, 21c, 21m, etc. Accordingly, when any given beauty product is used up in one of the boxes 50, only that box need to be replaced instead of having to replace the entire pallet, 20, 21, etc.

The container 51 and lid 52 can be formed from plastic using conventional injection molding techniques or from metal using conventional press forming techniques.

It should be noted that when using the boxes 50, the cover 30 is not required.

The cavities in the pallets 20, 21, and 22 can be made as deep as the space available in the shells 11, 12. However, to increase the number of beauty products stored in the cosmetic case 10, it is desirable to increase the number of pallets stored in the beauty case 10. To accomplish this object, the bottom sides 20b, 21b and 22b, 23b and 24b of the pallets 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24 are formed to be at the same depth, so that an additional inner pallet can be included. To accommodate one additional pallet in each shell portion 11, 12, two embodiments are disclosed. A first embodiment utilizes the bottom side of the pallets to support the inner pallet. Referring to Fig. 8D, numeral 20e designates a pair of substantially round downwardly facing stubs integrally formed with the bottom side of the pallet 20 on opposing sides thereof, each stub having a round hole 20h2 formed through the centre thereof. These stubs can be used to support inner templates therein.

A second embodiment for supporting the inner templates 40,41, 42 is to utilize the sleeves 1 In and the holes 1 lh3 formed in the sleeves 1 In formed in the shell 11 at opposing sides thereof, whereby, the inner pallets 40, 41, 42 are mounted in the additional holes 1 lh3 in the sleeves 1 In.

More specifically, the pallets 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24 become outer pallets and the pallet 40, 41 and 42 become inner pallets as will be described in more detail hereinafter. Fig. 18A-18D show a perspective view, a top view, a side view and an end view of a first embodiment of an inner pallet according to the present invention. Referring to the Figs., numeral 40 generally designates an inner template, numeral 40b designates a flat plate which is substantially round when viewed from the top, numeral 40a designates a pair of resilient arms integrally formed with the plate 40b along a back end thereof and on diagonally opposing sides thereof.

Numeral 40g designates a gap formed between the arm portion 40a and the back portion of the plate 40b. The gaps 40g are provided for allowing the arms 40a to be pressed towards each other to allow the pallet 40 to be mounted inside the holes 1 lh3 provided inside the shell 11. Alternatively, the inner template 41 can be mounted on the bottom side of the outer template 20 by mounting the protrusions 40p in the arms 40a inside the holes 20h2 in the stubs 20e on the bottom surface of the pallet 20.

Numeral 40p designates outwardly facing round protrusions integrally formed with each of the arms 40a at the extending ends thereof. The protrusions 40p are utilized for mounting the inner pallet 40 in the holes 1 lh3 formed in the shell 11.

Numerals 40c 1, 40c2 designate a first and second oval shaped horizontally feeing cavities formed in the plate 40b which are provided for storing a cheek brush 60 and a mascara container 70 therein, respectively. The inner pallet 40 can be formed using conventional injection molding techniques or using conventional press forming machines using plastic material or stainless steel material, respectively. The depth of the cavities 40c 1, 40c2 is made as deep as possible inside the shell 11, so that the biggest cheek brush 60 and the biggest possible mascara bottle 70 can be stored in the first and second cavities 40c 1, 40c2, respectively.

Numeral 40c3 designates a third cavity adjoining the second cavity 40c2 and is provided for allowing the user to use their index finger to remove the mascara bottle 70 from the second cavity 40c2.

Numeral 40m designates a round flat magnet which is adhered to the bottom side of the inner template 40 (using double sided tape or an glue) at a point which is central to the location of the cheek brush cavity 40c 1. The magnet 40m is used for attracting a round piece of sheet metal 62 placed inside a case portion 60 of the cheek brush 63. Accordingly, when the cheek brush 63 is placed inside the cavity 40c 1 in the inner pallet 40, the magnet 40m attracts the sheet metal 62 inside the handle portion 60 to prevent the cheek brush 63 from moving around or from falling out of the first cavity 40c 1 in the inner template 40.

Alternatively, the magnet 40m can be placed inside the handle portion 60 and the sheet metal 62 can be glued to the back side of the inner plate 40 at a central point below the first cavity 40c 1 for achieving the same effect.

Figs. 16A-16D show a perspective view, a top view, a bottom view and a side view of another embodiment of an inner pallet 42 according to the present invention. The inner pallet 42 is very similar to the inner pallet 40 and only the differences therebetween will be described herebelow.

Referring to the Figs., Numeral 42c designates a relatively large cavity formed at a central portion of the plate 42b provided for receiving a rubber pad (not shown) for applying foundation powder and numerals 42ml-42m4 designate four cavities provided for receiving eye shadow brushes 35 therein. Preferably, the inner pallet 42 is inserted in the shell 11 below the outer pallet 20, so that the pad (not shown) stored in the cavity 42c in the inner pallet 42 is just below foundation powder (not shown) stored inside the cavity 20m in the outer pallet 20. With this arrangement of the inner and outer pallets 42 and 20, the bottom side of the mascara powder cavity 20m also doubles up as a lid for the pad cavity 42c in the inner cavity 42. The size and shape of the foundation powder cavity 20m is the same as the size and shaped of the pad cavity 42c. Furthermore, with the inner and outer cavities

42 and 20 being stored in the same shell 11, the pad and foundation powder, which are always used at the same time, are adjacent to each other making it quick and simple for the user to apply foundation powder using the foundation pad to their face. The inner pallet 42 is the same as the inner pallet 40 in all other aspects.

Numerals 42fl-42f4 designate round cavities formed around central portions of the cavities 42ml-42m4, respectively, and are provided for allowing a person to place their index and thumb fingertips into the inner template 42 to either pull out or insert the eye-shadow brush 35 into and out of each of the cavities 42ml -42m4. The brushes 35 are frictionally supported inside the cavities 42ml-42m4 in an upright position by making the with of the cavities 42ml -42m4 slightly smaller than the width w of the main body portion 36 of the brush 35.

To mount the inner pallet 42 in the shell 11, the pallet 42 is simply placed inside the shell 11 to where the protrusions 42p of the inner pallet 42 are adjacent to the holes 1 lh3 in the sleeves 1 In, and then manually pushed to force the arms 42a to slightly bend inwards and allow the protrusions 42p to snap into the holes 1 lh3. To remove the inner pallet 42 from the shell 11, the pallet 42 is simply pulled out of the shell 11 to cause the protrusions 42p to snap out of the holes 1 lh3. The distance between the outer sides of the arms 42a is slightly greater than the distance between the sleeves 1 In, so that there is always a frictional force therebetween, thereby preventing the inner pallets from flapping around inside the shell 11.

Figs. 17A-17D show a perspective view, a top view, a side view and an end view of another embodiment of an inner pallet 41 according to the present invention.

Referring to Figs. 17A-17D, numeral 41 generally designates an inner template for storing beauty applying brushes 43 therein. Numeral 41c designates 5 rectangular shaped cavities formed in the pallet 41 provided for housing 5 makeup brushes therein, numeral 41d designates an oval shaped cavity formed in a central portion of the pallet 41 and is provided for facilitating the insertion and removal of the brushes 43 stored in the cavities 41c using a persons thumb and index fingers, numeral 41e designates a banana shaped depression formed in the flat plate 41b and is provided for facilitating the removal of the brushes 43 in the compartments 41c .

Numerals 41r designates ridges formed inside the compartments 41c provided for further facilitating the easy removal of the brushes 43 stored in the compartments 41c as will be explained more fully hereinafter.

Figs. 17E-17G show a perspective view, a top view, a side cross sectional view at line II-II of Fig. 17F of the inner pallet 41 mounted inside the shell 11 according to the present invention. Referring to the Figs., numeral

41 generally designates the inner template for storing beauty applying brushes 43 therein. In the Figs., only two brushes handle portions 45 are shown stored in two of the compartments 41c. One of the brush handle portions 45 is partially protruding out of the container 41. To remove the brush handle 45 out of the inner template 41 , first the back end 45b2 of the brush handle 45 is pressed into the banana shaped cavity 4 le causing the front end 45b 1 of the brush handle 45 to pop out of the cavity 41c. This is accomplished by the ridge 41r protruding upwards in the cavity 41c along a central portion of the cavity 41c, which functions similar to a sea-saw. The width of the cavities

41c are each the same as or slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the back portion 45b2 of the handle portions

45 of the brushes 43, so that the handle portions 45 can be frictionally supported inside the cavities 41c thereby accomplishing two functions, namely:

1. preventing the brushes 43 from falling out of the cavities 41 c in the template 41 ; and

2. maintaining the brush handle 45 in the partially tilted position when the back end 45b2 of the brush handle 45 is pressed into the banana shaped depression 41e, for facilitating the easy removal of the brushes 43.

Numeral 49 designate sheet metal strips bonded to the inside front central portion of each of the cavities 41c. The strips 49 are provided for preventing the brushes 43 from falling out of the cavities 41c in the inner template 41, due to magnets 48 placed inside a cylindrical sleeve 46 of the brush 43. In all other respects, the inner pallet 4 lg is the same as the pallet 40.

Figs. 19A-19E show a perspective view, a top view, a side view, a front end view and a back end view of a brush handle 45 of a brush 43 used for applying makeup products to a persons face according to the present invention. Fig. 19C shows a side view of the brush handle 45 shown in Fig. 19B but turned 90 degrees. Fig. 19F shows a side partial cross sections view of a brush 43 using the handle portion 45 according to the present invention.

Referring to Figs. 19A-19F, numeral 45 generally designates a brush handle, numeral 45b2 designates a round shaft portion which is formed at the back end 45b of the brush handle 45, numeral 45s designates a round shaft portion which is formed at the front end 45f of the handle 45 and numeral 45m designates a middle portion of the handle 45 formed between the round shaft portions 45b2 and 45b 1 at the back end 45b and front end 45f of the handle portion 45. The middle portion 45m is substantially rectangular in cross section and provides an ergonomically friendly shape for a person to hold while applying beauty products to their face. Furthermore, the middle portion 45m being rectangular in cross section makes it easier to remove and replace the brush handle 45 from and to the inner pallet 41, in view of the cramped space in the pallet 41.

The outer diameter of the back portion 45b2 of the handle portion 45 is the same as or slightly bigger than the width of the compartments 41c in the brush case 41, so that the back portion 45b2 frictionally slides inside the compartment 41 c in the inner pallet 41. Accordingly, when the extending back end of the back portion 45b2 of the brush handle 45 is pressed downwards into the banana shaped cavity 41e in the case 41 the front end 45b 1 of the brush handle 45 lifts out of the inner pallet 41 , due the protrusion 41 r in the cavity 41 c of the pallet 41. This combination of brush handle 45 and pallet 41 makes it very convenient to lift the brushes 45 out of the pallet 41.

Referring to Fig. 19F, the brush handle 45 has a conventional stainless steel cylindrical sleeve 46 mounted and glued to the shaft 45s. Next, a round magnet 48 is inserted into the centre of the sleeve portion 46. The other end of the stainless steel sleeve 46 has one end of conventional brush bristles 47 mounted therein and then the other end of the sleeve portion 46 is pressed to permanently attach the sleeve portion 46 and the brush bristles 47 to the handle 45. When the brashes 43 are inserted in the cavities 41c in the inner template 41, the magnets 48 and the metal strips 49 are adjacent to each other, and accordingly, prevent the brushes 43 from falling out of the cavities 41 c in the inner template 41.

Figs. 22A-22D show a perspective view, a front view, a side view and an end view of a brush 90 in the retracted state according to the present invention.

Figs. 23A-23D show a perspective view, a front view, a side view and an end view of a brush 90 in the extended state according to the present invention.

Figs. 24A-24D show a perspective view, a front view, a side view and an end view of a brush support portion 92 of the brush 90 (hereinafter referred to as brush support 92) according to the present invention.

Figs. 25A-25D show a perspective view, a front view, a side view and an end view of a brush case portion 92 of the brush 90 (hereinafter referred to as brush case 91) according to the present invention.

Referring to Figs. 22-25, the brush support 92 comprises a rectangular shaped body 92b, a relatively short rectangular handle portion 92h and a rectangular rib 92r adjoining the rectangular body with the rectangular handle portion 92h along central portions thereof. Brush bristles (not shown) for applying lip cream, etc., are attached to the ends 92e of the brush support 92 using conventional metal sleeves (not shown).

The case portion 91 comprises a rectangular shaped case 91b. Numeral 91sl designates a first slot formed through a central portion of a front surface 91 f of the case 91. Numeral 91 s2 designates a second slot formed in the front surface 91 f of the case 91. The second slot 91 s2 extends from one end of the first slot 91 s to one end of the case 91. The second slot 91 s2 is much thinner than the first slot 91 s.

Numeral 91p designates a pair of circumferential protrusions formed on the outer surface of the case 91 and are provided for preventing the case 91 from sliding past the protrusion 91p into the hole 13s foramed in the brush holder 15.

The brush holder 92 has bristles (not shown) mounted on one or both ends thereof (not shown) using conventional metal sleeves (not shown) and is well known in the art of cosmetic brushes.

The length of the holder 92 with the bristles (not shown) mounted thereon is slightly shorter than the length of the case 91. To mount the brush holder 92 inside the case 91 , one end 92e of the brush holder 92 is inserted into the case 91 through the end having the second slot 91s2 until the rib 92r of the brush holder 91 slides by the V shaped groove 91v and the second slot 91s2. The second slot 91s2 is narrower than the width of the rib 92r, so that once the rib 92r slides through the second slot 91s2, the rib 92r is permanently locked inside the slot 91s. The case 92 is formed of plastic or resilient stainless steel and is flexible to allow the rib 92r to pass through the narrow second slot 91s2.

Figs. 6A-6E show a perspective view, a front view, a top view, a bottom view and an end view of a brush holder according to the present invention. Referring to the Figs., numeral 15 generally designates a brush holder for supporting a plurality of brushes therein. Numeral 15b designates a bow shaped main body portion. The bow shaped body 15b has a substantially rectangular cross section and has a plurality of rectangular shaped holes 15s and round holes 15r formed therethrough for frictionally supporting a plurality brushes therein. The two round holes

15r are provided for frictionally supporting an eye-liner 80 and an eye brow pencil 80 therein, while the square holes

15s are provided for frictionally supporting retractable brushes 90 therein. The holes 15r and 15s are formed at an angle through the body 15b of the body holder, so that the brushes supported therein are supported in a V shaped configuration, so that, while the front ends of the brushes are close to each other, the back ends are spread apart for facilitating easy removal of the brushes 80, 90 from the brush holder 15.

Numerals 15p designate a pair of round protrusion each formed on a respective end of the body 15b. The outer diameter of the protrusion 15p is smaller than the cross section of the body 15b. Furthermore, the outer diameter of the protrusions 15p is the same as or slightly smaller than the holes 1 Ihl in the shell portion 11.

The round protrusions 15p are used for mounting the support 15 to the case portions 11 and/or 12. The brush holder 15 is made from plastic such as pvc, using conventional injection molding techniques or using stainless steel using metal press forming techniques. The brush holder 15 is made of flexible plastic or resilient metal.

The bow shaped brush holder 15 has a substantially rectangular cross sectional profile along the central portion thereof and a substantially oval shaped profile at the extending ends 15e thereof.

To mount the brush holder 15 inside one of the shell portions 11 or 12, first one round protrusion 15p at one end (hereinafter referred to as first end) of the bow shaped brush holder 15 is inserted into one hole 1 Ihl in the shell portion 11. Next, the other end (hereinafter referred to as the second end) of the brush holder 15 is manually pushed towards the first end of the brush holder 15 to cause the brush support 15 to bend slightly to allow the other protrusion 15p to be inserted into the other hole 1 Ihl in the shell portion 11. Then the brush holder 15 is released causing the round protrusion 15p at the of the brush holder 15 to slide into the other hole 1 Ih 1 in the container 11. Accordingly, the brush holder 1 is frictionally supported inside the holes 1 Ihl, 1 Ihl in the shell 11 or 12, while allowing the brush holder 1 to rotate with respect to the shell 1 1 or 12.

The round protrusions 15p are both round in cross section and are preferably 3-5mm in diameter. The length of the bow portion is longer than the distance between the holes 1 Ihl, 1 Ihl in the inner walls of the cosmetic container 11, so that once the brush holder 15 is mounted in holes 1 Ihl, 1 Ihl, the bow portion 15m is slightly bent beyond its normal shape, whereby the bow section 1 b is constantly under pressure, thereby providing a frictional force between the ends of the bow 15b and the inner surfaces of the case 11 around the holes 1 Ihl, 1 Ihl, to enable the brush holder 15 to be positioned at any angle within the cases 11, 12, while maintaining that position due to the frictional force between the extending ends of the bow portion 15b and the inner walls of the case around the holes l lhL 1 ihl.

Numeral 15p2 designate a plurality of small protrusions formed at the ends of the body section 15b around the protrusion 15p and are provided tor further increasing the frictional force between the brush support 1 and the shell 11. Namely, the protrusions 15p2 and 11 p 1 on the brush holder 15 and shell 11 provide a step like frictional force to allow the brush holder 15 to be positioned at give angles with respect to the shell 11.

Figs. 7A-7C show a perspective view, a top view and a side view of the shell 11 having the brush holder 15 mounted therein and a retractable brush 90 and eye-liner pencil 80 supported in the brush holder 15.

Referring to the Figs. 7A-7C, the retractable brush 90 and the eye-liner pencil 80 are both thin and short enough to easily fit into the shell 11. Furthermore, the brush 90 is not only retractable for allowing the brush to fit in the shell 11 , but also to prevent any beauty products left on the bristles (hereinafter referred to as residue) of the brush 90 such as lip cream from rubbing off on any other parts in the case 10 such as the mirror 13. Furthermore, the eye-liner 80 has been reduced in diameter and length to allow it to fit into the compact shell case 11 as will be explained more fully hereinafter.

A major problem with compact cosmetic cases is to include an eye-liner and an eye-brow applying device which are small enough to fit in the case.

A major object of this invention is to provide an eye-liner and eye-brow applying device that has a minimum number of parts and which is small enough to fit into the cosmetic case, namely, short and thin. Still further, to provide a short and thin eye-liner and eye-brow applying device which has the same length of lead supported therein as conventional sized eye-liners and eye-brow applying devices.

Fig. 26A shows a side view of an retractable eye-liner 80 according to the present invention. Fig. 26B shows a side cross sectional view at lines II-II of Fig. 26A of the retractable eye-liner 80.

Figs. 27A-27E show a perspective view, a side view, a front end view, a back end view and a side cross sectional view at lines II-II of Fig. 27B of the outer cylindrical portion 81 of the eye-liner 80.

Figs. 28A-28E show a perspective view, a side view, a front end view, a back end view, and a side cross sectional view at lines II-II of Fig. 28B of a cylindrical tip portion 82 of an eye-liner 80.

Figs. 29A-29D show a side view, a front end view, a back end view and a side cross sectional view at lines II-II of Fig. 29 A of an inner lead support portion 83 of the eye-liner 80.

Referring to 26A and 26B, it can be seen that the outer cylindrical portion 81 (hereinafter referred to as the handle 81) and the cylindrical tip portion 82 (hereinafter referred to as the tip 82) are substantially the same length. The reason for this is that this combination of handle 81 and tip 82 allows for the storage of the maximum length of graphite to be stored inside the eye-liner 80 relative to the size of the handle 81 and tip 82. It was found that a 6 cm. length of retractable eye-liner 80 of the present invention was sufficiently long to house a lead (not shown) which has the same length as found in conventional type retractable eye-liners.

Referring to Figs 27A-27E, the handle 81 comprises a larger cylindrical portion 81cl and a smaller cylindrical portion 8 lc2, the smaller and larger cylindrical portions 82c 1, 82c2 being formed on the front and back ends 81 f, 81 b of the handle 81 , respectively. Numeral 81 h designates a round hole formed through the centre of the handle 81 in the axial direction thereof. Numeral 81t designates a female thread formed on the inner surface of the handle 81.

Numeral 8 lg designates a round groove formed in the outer wall of the handle 81 at the meeting point between the smaller and larger cylindrical portions 81cl, 81c2 of the handle 81. Referring to Figs 28A-28E, the tip 82 comprises a cylindrical cone shaped outer surface 82c 1 and a cylindrically shaped back portion 82c2 integrally formed with the front portion 82c 1. Numeral 82d2 designates a cylindrical hole formed inside the back portion 82c2 and numeral 82r designates a round ridge integrally formed with the inner wall of the back end 82b of the back portion 82c2. Numeral 82dl designates a cone shaped hole formed inside the front portion 82c 1 and numeral 82h6 designates a hexagonal shaped aperture formed on the inner wall of the tip 82 between the cone shaped hole 82dl and the round shaped hole 82d2.

Referring to Figs. 29A-29D, numeral 83 generally designates a lead support, numeral 83t designates a thread formed at the back end 83b of the support 83 (hereinafter referred to as a thread portion 83t), numeral 83g designates a three finger chalk portion (hereinafter referred to as a grip portion 83g) formed at the front end of the support 83 and numeral 83s6 designates a hexagonally shaped shaft portion formed between the grip portion 83g and the thread portion 83t of the support 83. Numeral 83h designates a cylindrical hole formed through the centre of the lead support 83.

The lead (not shown) is inserted through back end 83b of the support 83 until the lead is sticking out of the front end 83f of the lead support 83. The outer diameter of the lead is substantially the same as the inner diameter of the hole 83h in the support 83. The three prong grip portion 83 prevents the lead from sliding backwards into the support 83. The grip portion 83g is well know in the art of sharp pencils commonly used today. The lead frictionally slides forward inside the hole 83h and is prevented from sliding backwards inside the holder 83 by the grip portion 83g.

To assemble the eye-liner 80, first the front end 81f of the handle 81 is inserted into the back end 82b of the cone portion 82, until the smaller diameter cylindrical portion 81c2 of the handle 81 is completely inside the cylindrical portion 82c2 of the tip 82 and the ridge 82r is locked inside the groove 81g, thereby permanently joining the handle 81 with the tip 82 while allowing the portions 81, 82 to rotate with respect to each other.

Next, the front end 83f of the lead support 83 is inserted into the back end 81b of the handle 81 and then the tip 82 is turned clockwise with respect to the handle 81 to cause the support 83 to move inwards into the handle 81 and the tip 82. More specifically, the hexagonal shaft portion 83s6 slides axially inside the hexagonal shaped hole 82h6 in the tip portion 82 due to the threads 83t and 8 It rotating radially with respect to each other.

Figs. 20A-20E show a perspective view, a top view, a side view, a front end view and a back end view of a cheek brush handle 60 according to the present invention. Fig. 20F shows a side cross sectional view at line II-II in Fig. 20B of the cheek handle portion 60 further having bristles 61 and a magnetic metal plate 62 mounted therein according to the present invention.

Referring to the Figs., numeral 60 generally designates a brush handle portion, numeral 60b designates a semi-oval body portion having a substantially flat upper and lower surface 60u, 601. A central portion 60e of the upper and lower surface 60u, 601 is concave and has a letter V embossed at the centre thereof. The concave surfaces 60e provide an ergonomic feel for the thumb and finger to fit in. And the letter V is not only for the brand name VENUS but also for providing an non slippery surface, so that a person can better control the application of cheek powder to their cheeks. Numeral 60 h designates a hollow space inside the handle portion 60. The handle portion can be formed from plastic using conventional injection molding techniques.

One end 61f (hereinafter referred to as the outer end 6 If) of the bristles are cut in a semi spherical way to enable the application of cheek powder to the face in a more even and smooth fashion while the other end 61b (hereinafter referred to as the inner end 61b) of the bristles 61 are squeezed together in a rectangular fashion and glued together to ensure that the strands of bristles stay together and inside the case 60.

The middle part of the handle portion 60 as viewed from the front or back of the handle is formed in a concave shape to provide a more ergonomic surface for the user. Namely, the thumb and the index finger naturally fit inside the concave surfaces to provide a better grip on the brush 60 thereby enabling for easier and more controlled application of beauty products to the face of the user.

Furthermore, to ensure that the brush 60 stays in the cavity 40c 1 in the inner pallet 40 at a fixed position and does not fall out, a round magnetic plate of metal 62 is inserted inside the cavity 60h inside the brush handle 60.

In the case where the inner pallet 40 is made of a metallic material using metal press forming techniques, instead of inserting a metal plate 62 inside the handle 60, a round flat magnet can be inserted into the central hole 60h in the handle 60, so that the handle 60 will adhere to the surface of the pallet 40 anywhere on the pallet.

Alternatively, if the pallet 40 is formed of plastic non magnetic material, a round flat sheet of steel is glued to the back side of the pallet at the point where it is desired to store the brush 40.

Figs. 30A-30D show a perspective view, a front view, a side view and an end view of a eye-shadow applying device 35 according to the present invention. Figs. 31A-31D show a perspective view, a front view, a side view and an end view of a main body portion 36 of the eye-shadow applying device 35. Fig. 3 IE shows a side cross sectional view at lines II-II of Fig. 3 IB of the main body portion 36. Figs. 32A-32D show a perspective view, a front view, a side view and an end view of a tip portion 37 of the eye-shadow applying device 35.

Referring to Figs. 30-32, numeral 36 generally designates a substantially square and flat main body portion (hereinafter referred to as main body 36), the central portion of which has been figuratively been squeezed to cause the central portion to be wider as well as have a concave shape, thereby providing an ergonomic surface for a person to have better support and control over applying mascara to their face. Specifically, the central part 36c of the main body portion 36 has a round profile when viewed from the front and the back as well as a concave surface when viewed from the side. Numeral 36e designates rectangular portions (hereinafter referred to as end portions 36e) integrally formed with the central round central portion 36c on opposing ends thereof. Numeral 36s designates a pair of square slots formed in the end portions. The square slots 36s extend from the outer ends of the end portions 36e to a central point therein.

Numeral 37 generally designates a tip portion (hereinafter referred to as the tip 37) on for applying eye-shadow to a persons eyes. The tip 37 comprises a flat, relatively thin, flexible substantially arrow shaped head portion 37h, a rectangular body portion 37m integrally formed with the head portion at a back end thereof and a pair of leg portions 371 integrally formed with body portion at the back end 37b thereof. Numeral 37p designate a pair of flat round outwardly facing protrusions integrally formed with the extending ends of the leg portions 371. Numeral 37s designates a slot formed between the two leg portions 371. The slot 37s allows the legs 371 to move towards each other when the tip 37 is inserted in the slots 36s in the ends 36e of the body portion 36.

The width W of the body portion 37m is the same as the width of the slots 36s formed in the end portions 36e. The width of the slot 36s is the same as the thickness of the legs 371. The protrusions 37p are slightly wider than the slot 36s. Accordingly, when the legs 361 are inserted into the slots 36s, the protrusions 37p are pressed inwards towards each other to allow the legs 371 to slide into the slot 36s, thereby frictionally supporting the tips 37 in the body portion 36. Conventional spunge portions can be mounted on the arrow shaped head 37h. With this embodiment, the tips can be easily replaced as the sponges on the head 37h become dirty from beauty products or as the sponges get warn out.

Figs. 34A-34D show a perspective view, a front view, a side view and an end view of a main body portion 360 of the eye-shadow applying device 35 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The body portion 360 is substantially the same as the main body portion 36 of the eye-shadow applying device 35 and the only difference between the two is that the body portion 360 has only one slot formed therein and, accordingly, only one tip 37 can be mounted therein. This allows the body portion 360 to be bigger than the body portion 36 for a given space inside the outer template 22.

Figs. 21 A shows a perspective views of a mascara case 70 according to the present invention. Figs. 21B-21C show perspective views of a mascara case 70 with the cap portion 72 removed from the canister portion 71. Fig. 21 D shows a perspective cross sectional view at lines II-II of Fig. 21 A of the mascara case 71. Referring to the Figs., Numeral 72 generally designates a cap portion and numeral 71 generally designates a canister portion. When the cap portion 72 is mounted on the canister portion 71, the combination has an oval somewhat flat shape so that it can easily fit into the cavity 40c2 in the inner pallet 40. Furthermore, when the pallet 40 is mounted inside the shell 11 , the outer template 20, 21 , etc., can be mounted and closed on top of the inner pallet 40.

The canister 71 comprises a semi-oval body 71b, when viewed from the front or back side and a strait front surface 71 f along the front end thereof. Numeral 71c designates a cylindrical portion integrally formed with the camster portion 71 along the central front end thereof. The cylindrical portion 71 c has a male thread portion 711 integrally formed with the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 71c. The thread portion 71 c only extends from the back end of the cylindrical portion 71c partially toward the front extending end of the cylindrical portion 71c. Furthermore, the thread pitch is very rough (i.e. Low ) so that a 180 degree twist of the cap portion 72 with respect to the canister portion is sufficient to hermetically lock the cap portion 72 onto the canister portion 71. Numeral 71h designates a cavity formed inside canister 71 for storing mascara liquid therein. The canister can be made of plastic using conventional blow molding or spinning techniques similar to PET bottles such as coca cola battles, or using metal using conventional metal forming techniques.

The cap portion 72 comprises a semi-oval body 72b, when viewed from the front or back side of the cap portion 72 and a strait front surface 72f along the front end thereof. Numeral 72hl designates a round hole formed in the centre of front surface 72f of the cap 72 and numeral 72c designates a round cylindrical portion integrally formed with the back end of the body portion surface inside the centre of the hole 72h 1. The cylindrical portion 72c extends from the inside of the hole 72hl to the front surface 72f. Numeral 72t designates a female thread portion formed on the outer surface of the first hole 72hl of the case 72.

One end of a shaft portion (not shown) of an eye-liner applying brush (not shown) is fnctionally inserted into the hole 72h2 in the cap 72. the other end of the shaft portion has a conventional eye-liner brush coupled thereto. The shaft portion (not shown) and the brush coupled thereto (not shown) are well known in the art of eye-shadow applying devices. The shaft portion and brush should be long enough to just fit the in the mascara case 70 when the case 70 is closed.

With this structure of cap 72 and canister 71, when the cap 72 is mounted on the canister 71, the mascara inside the canister 70 in order to leak out of the canister, has to go around the cylindrical portion 72c and the cylindrical portion 71c to get outside of the case 70, which makes it very difficult for the mascara to leak out of the case 70.

It should be noted that the cosmetic case is not limited to the pectin shell shape and that any other shape can be used without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Claims

1. A cosmetic case which comprises: a male case portion; a female case portion; a mirror support portion; means for coupling said male and female case portions to each other; and means for coupling said mirror support portion to said case portions, said case portions and said mirror support portion being able to swivel with respect to each other and said mirror support portion being stored inside said case portions when said male and female case portions are in a closed position.

2. A cosmetic case as defined in claim 1 , wherein: said male and female case portions are identical in shape and size to each other.

3. A cosmetic case as defined in claim 1, wherein: said male and female case portions are identical in shape and size, and said case coupling means comprises a hinge portion, said hinge portion comprising a plurality of protrusions each having a through hole formed through the centres thereof, each protrusion being integrally formed with a back end of said case portion, said protrusions being staggered at fixed distances with respect to each other along said back portions of said case portions, so that when said case portions are placed one on top of the other with their inner surfaces feeing each other, said protrusions fit in next to each other and said holes in said protrusions align with each other to enable a pin to be inserted therethrough, thereby locking said case portions to each other.

4. A cosmetic case as defined in claim 3, wherein: said mirror support coupling means comprises a hinge portion at least one protrusion integrally formed with said mirror support portion, said protrusion having a through hole formed therethrough, so that when said protrusions in said hinge portion and said protrusion in said mirror support portion are aligned with each other, said protrusions fit adjacent to each other, so that when a pin is inserted through said holes in said protrusions, said case portions and said mirror support portion are coupled to each other, while being able to swivel with respect to each other.

5. A cosmetic case as defined in claim 1, wherein said male and female case portions each have a pair of holes formed in said case portions, each pair of holes being provided for mounting a pallet therein.

6. A cosmetic case as defined in claim 1, wherein said male and female case portions each have at least two pairs of holes formed in said case portions, said two pairs of holes being provided for mounting an inner and outer pallet therein.

7. A cosmetic case as defined in claim 1, wherein said case portions have a pair of holes for mounting a brush holder therein.

8. A cosmetic case as defined in claim 1, wherein said case portions are formed in the shape of a pectin sea shell.

9. A cosmetic case as defined in claim 5, wherein: said pallet comprises: a substantially flat sheet portion having a plurality of cavities integrally formed therewith along the upper surface thereof for storing beauty products therein; and means for mounting said flat sheet in said holes in said male and female case portions.

10. A cosmetic case as recited in claim 9, wherein said sheet mounting means comprises: a pair of hands, one end of each hand being integrally formed with said sheet and the other end of each hand having a round protrusion integrally formed therewith, said hands being formed on opposing sides of said sheet along the back portion thereof, the extending ends of said protrusions facing away from each other and being parallel to the surface of said sheet portion of said pallet, said pallet being formed of a resilient material so that said round protrusions in said arms snap into respective holes formed in the wall portions of said case portion, said pallet being formed of a resilient material.

11. A pallet for a cosmetic case which comprises: a flat sheet portion having a plurality of cavities formed along the surface thereof; a wall portion a lower end of which is integrally formed with said sheet portion along the periphery of said sheet portion; an outwardly facing rim portion integrally formed with the uper end of said wall portion; a pair of hand portions, one end of each hand portion being integrally formed with said rim portion and the other end of each hand portion having a protrusion integrally formed therewith, said hand portions being formed on opposing sides of said rim portion and said protrusions facing away from each other, whereby said protrusions snap into said holes in said case portion for mounting said pallet to said case portion.

12. An inner pallet for a cosmetic case which comprises: a flat sheet portion having a plurality of cavities formed along the surface thereof; a pair of hand portions, one end of each hand portion being integrally formed with said sheet portion at opposing sides thereof, the extending ends of said hand portions each having a protrusion integrally formed therewith, said protrusions facing away from each other and said pallet being formed of a resilient material, whereby said inner pallet can be mounted inside said case portion by mounting said protrusions in corresponding holes formed in said case portions.

13. A cosmetic case as recited in claim 11, further comprising: a pallet cover, said cover comprising: a flat transparent plate portion, said plate portion having the shape of said flat sheet portion of said pallet; a semi round rim portion integrally formed with said plate portion, said rim portion being formed on the upper surface of said plate portion along the periphery thereof; and a pair of round protrusions integrally formed with said plate portion along a back portion thereof, said wall portion of said pallet having a pair of holes formed therethrough on diagonally opposing sides thereof for receiving said protrusions of said cover therein, whereby said cover can be supported on said pallet as well as swivel with respect to said pallet, thereby allowing a person to access the beauty products stored in said cavities in said pallet as well as providing a cover for the beauty product stored in said cavities in said pallet to prevent said beauty products from falling out of said pallet.

14. A cosmetic case as recited in claim 5, wherein said pallet mounting means comprises: a pair of hands, one end of each hand being integrally formed with said sheet at opposing sides thereof: and a round protrusion integrally formed with each of said hands along the extending end thereof, the extending ends of said protrusions facing away from each other and being parallel with the surface of said sheet portion of said pallet, said template being formed of a resilient material so that said round protrusions in said hands snap into respective holes formed in the wall portions of said case portion.

15. A cosmetic case as defined in claim 1, wherein: said male and female case portions are formed in the shape of a pectin shell, so that when said male and female case portions are placed on top of each other, said case portions form a compartment therebetween for storing cosmetic products therein, said case portions further comprises: means for latching shut said male and female case portions to each other.

16. A cosmetic case as defined in claim 1, wherein: said male and female case portions are formed in the shape of a pectin shell, so that when said male and female case portions are placed on top of each other, said case portions form a case having a compartment therein, said compartment being used for storing a plurality of pallets, each pallet providing a plurality of cavities for storing beauty products therein, said case being substantially the same size as the size of the womans' palm, so that said case ergonomically fits in a woman's hand in both the closed and open states of said case portions, said pectin shaped case having a corrugated surface, so that said pectin shell can be relatively strong and light while reducing the overall weight of said shell.

17. An inner pallet as defined in claim 12, wherein said cavities are rectangular in shape for supporting a plurality of beauty brushes therein.

18. A cosmetic case as defined in claim 6, wherein said inner and outer pallets further comprise: a magnet mounted on said pallet for magnetically attracting a metal piece mounted inside a brush, so that said brush does not fall out of said pallets.

19. A cosmetic case as defined in claim 6, wherein said inner and outer pallets further comprises: a metal piece mounted on the pallet for magnetically attracting a magnet mounted inside a brush, so that said brush does not fall out of said pallets.

20. An eye-liner which comprises: a handle portion; a tip portion the back end of which is coupled to the front end of said handle portion; and a lead support portion mounted inside said handle portion and said tip portion, said handle portion and support portion having substantially the same length.