Abstract
An applicator device for cosmetic and/or hygiene applications, which includes a shaft with a longitudinal axis, a proximal and a distal end as well as a carrier element, wherein at the carrier element there are arranged bristle elements in an anchor-free manner, wherein the carrier element is introduced in a receiving opening or put onto a receiving section at the distal end of the shaft and wherein the carrier element is connected to the shaft and to a respective method.
Claims
1.-56. (canceled)
57. An applicator device for cosmetic and/or hygiene applications, comprising a shaft with a longitudinal axis, a proximal end, a distal end, and a carrier element, wherein at the carrier element there are arranged bristle elements in an anchor-free manner, wherein the carrier element is introduced in a receiving opening or put onto a receiving section at the distal end of the shaft, and wherein the carrier element is connected to the shaft.
58. The applicator device according to claim 57, wherein the carrier element is introduced in the receiving opening in such a way that it is flush with an upper edge at the distal end of the shaft.
59. The applicator device according to claim 58, wherein in the upper edge at the distal end of the shaft at least one recess is provided, and wherein the at least one recess serves for receiving lateral protrusions of the carrier element.
60. The applicator device according to claim 57, wherein the receiving opening is in a shape of a blind-hole-like depression which comprises a rectangular, an elliptical, a circular, a n-corner, or an regular polygonal form.
61. The applicator device according to claim 57, wherein the carrier element and the shaft are connected to one another by means of positive fit and/or force fit and/or material fit, and wherein the connection is realized in the form of a snap connection, by ultrasonic welding, by injection molding, by bonding and/or crimping and/or by heat exposure.
62. The applicator device according to claim 57, wherein the carrier element and the shaft are inseparably connected.
63. The applicator device according to claim 57, wherein the bristle elements consist of a free end and a mounting end, wherein the mounting ends of the bristle elements are connected to the carrier element by way of positive fit and/or force fit and/or material fit, and wherein the connection between the mounting ends of the bristle elements and the carrier element is realized by ultrasonic welding, injection molding, bonding and/or crimping and/or heat exposure.
64. The applicator device according to claim 57, wherein the carrier element comprises a central opening which is provided with bristle elements, and wherein the central opening is in the form of a through hole or of a blind hole.
65. The applicator device according to claim 64, wherein the carrier element comprises multiple through holes and/or blind holes.
66. The applicator device according to claim 57, wherein the carrier element is substantially ring-shaped.
67. The applicator device according to claim 63, wherein the bristle elements are over-molded at the mounting ends, and wherein the over-mold forms the carrier element.
68. The applicator device according to claim 57, wherein the carrier element comprises at least one fastening means which serves for a connection with the shaft, and wherein the at least one fastening means is formed hook-like or tongue-like.
69. The applicator device according to claim 68, wherein the at least one fastening means is arranged at a longitudinal side of the carrier element, or wherein the at least one fastening means comprises a length between 1 mm and 6 mm and a height between 0.1 mm and 0.6 mm.
70. The applicator device according to claim 68, wherein at a longitudinal side of the distal shaft end in an area of the receiving opening there is provided at least one recess for receiving the fastening means of the carrier element, and wherein the at least one recess is in the form of a through hole.
71. The applicator device according to claim 70, wherein the at least one recess comprises a length between 2.5 mm and 5 mm and a height between 0.4 mm and 1.5 mm.
72. The applicator device according to claim 70, wherein in a mounted state a snap connection is formed between the fastening means of the carrier element and the recess in the distal shaft end.
73. The applicator device according to claim 57, wherein the carrier element is inserted into the shaft along the longitudinal axis.
74. The applicator device according to claim 57, wherein at the proximal shaft end there is provided at least one fastening means for realizing a connection with a grip element, and wherein the at least one fastening means at the proximal end of the shaft is in the form of a thread or in the form of latches.
75. The applicator device according to claim 57, wherein the application device is a nail polish brush, a lip gloss brush, a mascara brush, an interdental cleaner or a single tuft brush.
76. The applicator device according to claim 57, wherein the bristle elements are provided in the form of at least one bristle bundle, and wherein the at least one bristle bundle comprises one or more different types of bristle elements.
77. The applicator device according to claim 76, wherein the at least one bristle bundle comprises one-component bristle elements or multi-component bristle elements or a mixture thereof, wherein the multi-component bristle elements each comprise: (a) a core with one or more resins and one outer layer with one or more resins wherein the outer layer surrounds the core or (b) two or more components embodied to be linked with each other.
78. The applicator device according to claim 76, wherein the bristle elements comprise at least one thermoplastic resin.
79. The applicator device according to claim 76, wherein different regions of the applicator device comprise at least one bristle bundle with different properties, a different composition and/or a different shape in one and/or more sections of the at least one bristle bundle, wherein the different composition is present in one or more portions of the bristle elements and/or in one or more of the bristle elements and/or in one or more sections of the at least one bristle bundle and/or in different bristle bundles comprised in the applicator device, and wherein the different shape is present in one or more portions of the bristle elements and/or in one or more of the bristle elements and/or in one or more sections of the at least one bristle bundle and/or in different bristle bundles comprised in the applicator device.
80. The applicator device according to claim 78, wherein the at least one thermoplastic resin is a resin selected from the group of polyolefines, polyamides, polyesters, polycarbonates, polyoxymethylenes, polyether ketones, polysulfones, polyether sulfides, thermoplastic polyether imides and thermoplastic polyimides.
81. The applicator device according to claim 78, wherein the at least one bristle bundle further comprises at least one elastomer resin.
82. The applicator device according to claim 78, wherein the at least one bristle bundle comprises bristle elements having a diameter in the range from 0.0254 mm to 0.508 mm.
83. A method for producing at least one applicator device for cosmetic and/or hygiene applications, the device comprising a shaft and a carrier element with bristle elements, and the method comprising at least the following steps: (a) injection molding of at least one shaft, wherein at a distal end of the at least one shaft a receiving opening or a receiving section for a carrier element is provided; (b) injection molding of at least one carrier element and simultaneously or subsequently providing the at least one carrier element with bristle elements in an anchor-free manner; and (c) mounting of the at least one bristle containing carrier element in the receiving opening or at the receiving section of the shaft.
84. A package comprising a reservoir and the applicator device according to claim 57.
Description
[0305] It shows:
[0306] FIG. 1: a three-dimensional view of the shaft;
[0307] FIG. 2: a side view of the wide side of the shaft of FIG. 1;
[0308] FIG. 3: a side view of the narrow side of the shaft of FIG. 1;
[0309] FIG. 4: a plan view along the longitudinal axis of the shaft of FIG. 1;
[0310] FIG. 5: a section view of the wide side of the shaft of FIG. 1;
[0311] FIG. 6: a section view of the narrow side of the shaft of FIG. 1;
[0312] FIG. 7: a cross-section through the shaft through the recesses (notches) of the upper edge;
[0313] FIG. 8: a cross-section through the shaft respectively through the recesses (through holes) in the wide side of the shaft of FIG. 1;
[0314] FIG. 9: a three-dimensional view of the front side of the carrier element;
[0315] FIG. 10: a three-dimensional view of the rear side of the carrier element of FIG. 9;
[0316] FIG. 11: a plan view of the front side of the carrier element of FIG. 9;
[0317] FIG. 12: a plan view of the rear side of the carrier element of FIG. 9;
[0318] FIG. 13: a side view of narrow side of the carrier element of FIG. 9;
[0319] FIG. 14: a side view of the wide side of the carrier element of FIG. 9;
[0320] FIG. 15: a section view of the wide side of the shaft of FIG. 9;
[0321] FIG. 16: a section view of the narrow side of the shaft of FIG. 9;
[0322] FIG. 17: a three-dimensional view of the bristled carrier element;
[0323] FIG. 18: a section view of the wide side of the bristled carrier element of FIG. 17;
[0324] FIG. 19: a section view of the narrow side of the bristled carrier element of FIG. 17;
[0325] FIG. 20: a three-dimensional view of the finished applicator device;
[0326] FIG. 21: a side view of the narrow side of the finished applicator device of FIG. 20;
[0327] FIG. 22: a side view of the wide side of the finished applicator device of FIG. 20;
[0328] FIG. 23: a section view of the narrow side of the finished applicator device of FIG. 20;
[0329] FIG. 24: a section view of the wide side of the finished applicator device of FIG. 20;
[0330] FIG. 25: a plan view of a cross-section through the finished applicator device of FIG. 20 in the area of the recesses (through-holes) in the wide side of the shaft;
[0331] FIG. 26: a three-dimensional view of the front side the grid-like structure for the production of the bristled carrier elements;
[0332] FIG. 27: a three-dimensional view of the rear side of the grid-like structure of FIG. 26;
[0333] FIG. 28: a plan view of the front side of the grid-like structure of FIG. 26;
[0334] FIG. 29: a plan view of the rear side of grid-like structure of FIG. 26;
[0335] FIG. 30: a section view of the wide side of the grid-like structure of FIG. 26;
[0336] FIG. 31: a section view of the narrow side of the grid-like structure cross-section of FIG. 26;
[0337] FIG. 32: a three-dimensional view of a bristle field in form of a tent;
[0338] FIG. 33: a three-dimensional view of a bristle field in form of a tongue;
[0339] FIG. 34a: a three-dimensional view of a first pillar bundle;
[0340] FIG. 34b: side view of the first pillar bundle of FIG. 34a;
[0341] FIG. 34c: a plan view of the carrier element of the first pillar bundle of FIG. 34a in the shaft without bristle elements;
[0342] FIG. 35a: a three-dimensional view of a second pillar bundle;
[0343] FIG. 35b: side view of the second pillar bundle of FIG. 35a;
[0344] FIG. 35c: a plan view of the carrier element of the second pillar bundle of FIG. 35a in the shaft without bristle elements;
[0345] FIG. 36a: a three-dimensional view of a double fan bundle;
[0346] FIG. 36b: a side view of a double fan bundle of FIG. 36a;
[0347] FIG. 36c: a plan view of the carrier element of the double fan bundle of FIG. 36a in the shaft without bristle elements;
[0348] FIG. 37: a three-dimensional view of a first fan bundle;
[0349] FIG. 38: a three-dimensional view of a second fan bundle;
[0350] FIG. 39: a three-dimensional view of a first coat bundle;
[0351] FIG. 40: a three-dimensional view of a second coat bundle;
[0352] FIG. 41: a three-dimensional view of a first multi-tuft bundle;
[0353] FIG. 42: a three-dimensional view of a second multi-tuft bundle;
[0354] FIG. 43: a front view of a first bristle field topography;
[0355] FIG. 44: a front view of a second bristle field topography;
[0356] FIG. 45: a front view of a third bristle field topography;
[0357] FIG. 46: a front view of a fourth bristle field topography;
[0358] FIG. 47: a front view of a fifth bristle field topography;
[0359] FIG. 48: a front view of a sixth bristle field topography;
[0360] FIG. 49: a front view of a seventh bristle field topography;
[0361] FIG. 50: a front view of an eighth bristle field topography;
[0362] FIG. 51: a front view of a nineth bristle field topography;
[0363] FIG. 52: a front view of a tenth bristle field topography;
[0364] FIG. 53: a front view of a first combined bristle field;
[0365] FIG. 54: a front view of a second combined bristle field;
[0366] FIG. 55: a front view of a third combined bristle field;
[0367] FIG. 56: a front view of a fourth combined bristle field
[0368] FIG. 57: a front view of a fifth combined bristle field;
[0369] FIG. 58: a front view of a sixth combined bristle field;
[0370] FIG. 59a: a front view of a seventh combined bristle field;
[0371] FIG. 59b: a side view of the seventh combined bristle field of FIG. 59a;
[0372] FIG. 59c: a rear view of the seventh combined bristle field of FIG. 59a;
[0373] FIG. 60a: a front view of an eighth combined bristle field;
[0374] FIG. 60b: a side view of the eighth combined bristle field of FIG. 60a;
[0375] FIG. 60c: a rear view of the eighth combined bristle field of FIG. 60a;
[0376] FIG. 61a: a front view of a nineth combined bristle field;
[0377] FIG. 61b: a side view of the nineth combined bristle field of FIG. 61a;
[0378] FIG. 61c: a rear view of the nineth combined bristle field of FIG. 61a;
[0379] FIG. 62: a three-dimensional view of another finished applicator device according to the invention
[0380] FIG. 63: a three-dimensional view of parts of an embodiment of an applicator device in an unassembled state;
[0381] FIG. 64: a three-dimensional view of the finished applicator device of FIG. 63;
[0382] FIG. 65: a three-dimensional view of a further embodiment of a finished applicator device;
[0383] FIG. 66: a side view of the applicator device of FIG. 65; and
[0384] FIG. 67: a section view of the applicator device of FIG. 65.
[0385] FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional view of an embodiment of an inventive shaft 2 protruding from a base element 19. The end of the shaft 2 which is connected to base element 19 is defined as proximal end 3 of shaft 2. The free end of the shaft 2 is defined as distal end 4. On the rear side of the base element 19 a thread 20 is arranged which shall serve as connection means for a grip respectively handle part (not shown). At the free respectively distal end 4 of shaft 2 a receiving opening 7 is provided into which a bristled carrier element shall be introduced. In the upper edge 8 of shaft 2 at the narrow sides 23, recesses 9, preferably in the form of notches, are provided. In the wide sides 22 of the shaft 2, recesses 15, preferably in form of through-holes or slots, are provided which shall act together with corresponding fastening means of a carrier element.
[0386] Further, in FIG. 2 the wide side 22 of shaft 2 with the recess 15 and the longitudinal axis X of shaft 2 are illustrated. The width w.sub.s of the shaft 2 ranges from 4 mm to 12 mm, preferably from 5 mm to 9 mm. The length l.sub.s of shaft 2 ranges from 15 mm to 70 mm, preferably from 35 mm to 50 mm. FIG. 3 depicts the narrow side 23 of shaft 2 with a recess 9. The depth d.sub.s of shaft 2 ranges from 2 mm to 6 mm, preferably from 2.5 mm to 5 mm. The base element 19 slightly protrudes over the thread 20 and in order to act as a kind of barrier for fluids respectively medium or to properly close the opening of a handle which will be screwed on the shaft.
[0387] In FIG. 4, a plan view onto the distal end 4 of shaft 2 is shown. The receiving opening 7 is surrounded by the upper edge 8 of shaft 2. Inwardly from the upper edge 8, a support collar 21 is depicted which will be described in more detail in FIG. 5. At the narrow sides 23 the recesses 9 are provided in the upper edge 8. The recesses 9 shall serve for accommodating corresponding lateral protrusions of a carrier element.
[0388] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view according to line V-V in FIG. 4. The receiving opening 7 at the distal end 4 of shaft 2 comprises a depression 26 with a total depth d.sub.d which ranges from 1 mm to 4 mm, preferably from 2.5 mm to 3 mm. The total depth of the depression comprises a first depth d.sub.d1 and a second depth d.sub.d2. Depth d.sub.d1 is measured from the upper edge 8 of shaft 2 to support collar 21 which protrudes from the inner sidewall inwardly into the depression 26, respectively into a hollow space of the depression. Depth d.sub.d1 ranges from 1.5 mm to 4 mm, preferably from 1.7 mm to 3 mm. Depth d.sub.d2 is measured from the support collar 21 (i.e. the step in the side wall) to the bottom 31 of the depression 26 and ranges from 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm, preferably from 0.6 mm to 1.5 mm. The recess 15 is preferably arranged centrally within the width of the depression 26. The length l.sub.rs of the recess 15 ranges from 2.5 mm to 5 mm, preferably from 3 mm to 4 mm. The support collar 21 comprises a width w.sub.sc which ranges from 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm, preferably from 0.15 to 0.35 mm. The inner side walls of the shaft 2 in the area of the depression 26 slightly taper inwardly and comprise a conicity c.sub.d of 0° to 5° preferably of 0.5° to 2°. This applies to the sidewall in the area of depth d.sub.d1 as well as in the area of depth d.sub.d2 (cf. also FIG. 6).
[0389] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view according to line VI-VI in FIG. 4. The notch-like recesses 9 in the upper edge 8 of the shaft 2 are preferably arranged in the narrow sides 23 and comprise a height h.sub.ru which ranges from 0.3 mm to 1.2 mm, preferably from 0.4 mm to 0.8 mm. The width w.sub.ru of the recesses 9 ranges from 0.4 mm to 2 mm preferably from 0.6 mm to 1.5 mm. The height h.sub.rs of the recesses 15 ranges from 0.4 mm to 1.4 mm, preferably from 0, 6 mm to 0, 9 mm (measured on the outside of the shaft). The lower edge of recess 15 lies substantially in the same height as the upper face of support collar 21. The upper edge of recess 15 preferably tapers inwardly with a conicity c.sub.rs which ranges from 0° to 30°, preferably from 5° to 25°.
[0390] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view according to line VII-VII in FIG. 5. In FIG. 7, the width w.sub.d of the depression 26 respectively of the receiving opening 7 is illustrated. The width w.sub.d ranges from 0.5 mm to 3.5 mm, preferably from 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm (i.e. measured in the area of the upper edge 8). Further, the wall thickness t.sub.ws of the sidewalls of the shaft 2 is depicted. The wall thickness t.sub.ws ranges from 0.2 mm to 1 mm, preferably from 0.3 mm to 0.6 mm. In the area of depth d.sub.d2, the width w.sub.d is somewhat smaller due to support collar 21 and the wall thickness t.sub.ws is a bit bigger due to support collar 21. Apart from this, the wall thickness t.sub.ws is uniform in the cross-section on each height. In this figure the recess 9 in the upper edge 8 can be seen, since the other wall parts are cut and hatched in the figure.
[0391] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view according to line VIII-VIII in FIG. 6. In FIG. 8, the length l.sub.d of the depression 26 respectively the receiving opening 7 is illustrated. The length l.sub.d ranges from 4 mm to 8 mm, preferably from 5.5 mm to 6 mm (i.e. measured in the area of depth d.sub.d1). In the area of depth d.sub.d2, the length l.sub.d is somewhat smaller due to support collar 21. In this figure the recess 15 in the distal shaft end 4 can be seen, since the other wall parts are cut and hatched in the figure.
[0392] FIG. 9 is a three-dimensional view of an embodiment of an inventive carrier element 5 (unbristled), i.e. from the upper side 27. The carrier element 5 is generally ring-shaped and comprises a central opening 13 which serves for receiving bristle elements respectively bristle bundles. It is noted that the carrier element 5 may also comprise two or more openings for receiving bristle elements respectively bristle bundles. On the narrow sides of the carrier element 5 lateral protrusions 10 protrude outwardly from the carrier element 5. The lateral protrusions 10 result from a separation process out of a grid-like structure which will be described further below. At the bottom of the wide sides of the carrier element 5 fastening means 14 are arranged, which preferably comprise a hook-like or a tongue-like shape and which act together with recesses 15 in the shaft 2, i.e. usually in form of a snap connection.
[0393] FIG. 10 is a three-dimensional view of the carrier element 5 from the rear side 28. Here, the hook-like or a tongue-like shape of the fastening means 14 may be seen clearer.
[0394] FIG. 11 is a plan view onto the upper side 27 of carrier element 5 with the lateral protrusions 10, the fastening means 14 and the central opening 13. FIG. 12 is a plan view onto the rear side 28 of carrier element 5 with the lateral protrusions 10, the fastening means 14 and the central opening 13. The length l.sub.fc of the fastening means 14 of carrier element 5 is depicted. The length l.sub.fc ranges from 1 mm to 6 mm, preferably from 2 mm to 4 mm.
[0395] FIG. 13 is a side view of carrier element 5 with lateral protrusion 10, and the hook-like or tongue-like fastening means 14. Further, the width w.sub.c of the carrier element 5, the thickness t.sub.c of the carrier element 5 and the height h.sub.fc of the fastening means 14 of the carrier element are shown. The width w.sub.c ranges from 1 mm to 5 mm and preferably from 1.5 mm to 3 mm. The thickness t.sub.c ranges from 1 mm to 3.5 mm and preferably from 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm. FIG. 14 is a longitudinal side view of carrier element 5 with fastening means 14 and lateral protrusions 10. Further, the length l.sub.c of carrier element 5 is depicted. The length l.sub.c ranges from 4 mm to 9 mm and preferably from 5 mm to 7 mm.
[0396] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view according to line XV-XV in FIG. 11. The thickness t.sub.pc of the lateral protrusions 10, the conicity c.sub.co of the central opening 13 (sidewalls taper slightly inwards), the length l.sub.co of the central opening 13 and the wall thickness t.sub.wc of the carrier element 5 are illustrated. The thickness t.sub.pc of the lateral protrusions ranges from 0.3 mm to 1.2 mm and preferably from 0.5 mm to 0.8 mm. The conicity c.sub.co of the central opening ranges from 1° to 3° and preferably from of 1.50° to 2.5°. The length l.sub.co of the central opening 13 ranges from 3 mm to 8 mm and preferably from 4.5 mm to 6 mm. The wall thickness t.sub.wc of the side walls 33 of the carrier element 5 (i.e. without lateral protrusions 10) ranges from 0.3 mm to 1 mm and preferably from 0.4 mm to 0.8 mm.
[0397] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view according to line XVI-XVI in FIG. 11. The width w.sub.co of the central opening 13 of the carrier element 5 and again the conicity c.sub.co of the central opening are depicted. The width w.sub.co of the central opening 13 ranges from 0.5 mm to 2 mm and preferably from 0.6 mm to 1 mm. The shape of the fastening means 14 generally corresponds to the shape of the recesses 15 in the shaft 2, i.e. in particular the hook-like or tongue-like embodiments comprise an inclination which optimally correspond to conicity c.sub.rs of the recesses 15 in order to achieve a strong snap connection.
[0398] FIG. 17 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a bristled carrier element 5 with lateral protrusions 10, fastening means 14 and a melt carpet 30. The melt carpet results from e.g. a melting operation which is carried out at the mounting ends 12 of the bristle elements 6 after the bristle elements 6 have been introduced into the carrier element 5. Opposite from the mounting ends 12 of the bristle elements 6, the free ends 11 of the bristle elements 6 are located. In the embodiment shown, the bristle elements 6 respectively the bristle field comprises a rounded edge 29. In this manner, better brushing characteristics may be achieved in certain applications. The bristle field may generally consist of one bristle bundle or of two or more bristle bundles.
[0399] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional front view of the bristled carrier element of FIG. 17. The melt carpet does preferably not protrude over the outer sidewalls 33 of the carrier element 5. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional side view of the bristled carrier element of FIG. 17. and depicts the thickness t.sub.mc of the melt carpet 30. The thickness t.sub.mc of the melt carpet 30 ranges from 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm, preferably between 0.15 mm and 0.3 mm. Before the melting operation, the bristle elements 6 protrude over the rear side 28 of the carrier element 5 with a length ranging from 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm and preferably from 0.3 mm to 0.6 mm.
[0400] FIGS. 20 to 22 illustrate an inventive applicator device 1, i.e. the bristled carrier element 5 has been introduced into the shaft 2. The bristle elements 6 respectively the bristle field with the rounded edge 29 protrudes from the distal end 4 of the shaft 2. At the proximal end 3 of the shaft 2, the base element 19 and the thread 20 are arranged. In the side view of FIG. 21, a recess 9 in the upper edge 8 of narrow side 23 is shown in which the protrusion 10 of the carrier element 5 is arranged. In the front view of FIG. 22, a recess 15 in the wide side 22 of the shaft 2 is shown into which a fastening means 14 of the carrier element 5 engages (i.e. preferably in the form of a snap connection).
[0401] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view on the narrow side 23 of an inventive applicator device 1 (i.e. with a bristled carrier element 5 inserted) as shown in FIG. 20 to 22, especially with regard to the region of the distal shaft end 4. In particular, the engagement of the hook-like or tongue-like fastening means 14 of carrier element 5 with the corresponding (i.e. angled respectively inwardly tapering) recesses 15. The melt carpet 30 does not touch the bottom 31 of depression 26. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention support elements or pins for the melt carpet 30 may be arranged at the bottom 31 of depression 26 (not shown here).
[0402] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view on the wide side 22 of an inventive applicator device 1 (i.e. with a bristled carrier element 5 inserted) as shown in FIG. 20 to 22, especially with regard to the region of the distal shaft end 4. In particular, the engagement of the lateral protrusions 10 of the carrier element 5 into the recesses 9 in the upper edge 8 of the shaft 2 is shown.
[0403] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view according to line A-A in FIG. 23 and depicts the fastening means 14 of the carrier element 5 within the recesses 15 of shaft 2. The bristle elements 6 fill out the central opening 13 of the carrier element 5 completely. The carrier element 5 abuts at the inner sidewalls of the depression 26, i.e. in the area of depth d.sub.d1 (cf. FIGS. 5 and 6).
[0404] FIG. 26 is a three-dimensional view on the upper side of a grid-like structure 17 which has been manufactured by injection molding. Within the frame 18 of the grid-like structure 17 multiple carrier elements 5 (in this embodiment sixteen) are pairwise connected (i.e. horizontally). In other words, two side-by-side arranged carrier elements 5 are respectively connected to the frame 18 and to one another via the (unseparated) lateral protrusion 10 (connection webs). This results in the following horizontal sequence: frame 18—lateral protrusion/connection web 10—carrier element 5—lateral protrusion/connection web 10—carrier element 5 —lateral/connection web protrusion 10—frame 18 (also visible in FIG. 31). Vertical connections (additionally or exclusively) are generally also possible. FIG. 27 illustrates the rear side of the grid-like structure 17 with the rear side 28 of the carrier elements 5 and the (inverted) fastening means 14. The lateral protrusions respectively connection webs 10 are not visible since they are only arranged in the upper region of the carrier element 5.
[0405] FIG. 28 provides a plan view on the upper side of a grid-like structure 17 with the frame 18 and the carrier elements 5 with the fastening means 14 and the (unseparated) lateral protrusions respectively connection webs 10. Further, the width w.sub.gs of the grid-like structure 17 and the length l.sub.gs of the grid-like structure 17 are depicted. The width w.sub.gs of the grid-like structure ranges from 10 mm to 30 mm and preferably from 15 mm to 25 mm. The length l.sub.gs of the grid-like structure ranges from 20 mm to 40 mm and preferably from 25 mm to 30 mm. FIG. 29 provides a plan view on the rear side of a grid-like structure 17 with the frame 18 and the carrier elements 5 with the fastening means 14 and the (unseparated) lateral protrusions respectively connection webs 10. The frame 18 comprises a step-like recess 25 which provides for better stability and processing characteristics.
[0406] FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view according to line B-B in FIG. 28 and depicts the frame 18 with the step-like recess 25 and the narrow sides of carrier elements 5 with the fastening means 14 protruding from the side walls of the carrier element (i.e. behind the section plane). Further, the lateral protrusions 10 respectively connection webs are shown, i.e. the “inner” lateral protrusions 10 respectively connection webs which connect the neighboring carrier elements 5. FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view according to line C-C in FIG. 28 and depicts the frame 18 with the step-like recesses 25 and the inner side faces of carrier elements 5 (i.e. within central opening 13). Between the frame 18 and the two carrier elements 5 and between the two carrier elements 5 a predetermined breaking point 32 is provided. The predetermined breaking point 32 results from the fact that the lateral protrusions respectively connection webs 10 have a smaller thickness (i.e. t.sub.pc, cf. FIG. 15) than the frame 18 (respectively the upper portion of the recessed frame to which the lateral protrusions 10 respectively connection webs are connected) and the side walls 33 of the carrier elements 5. Since the lateral protrusions respectively connection webs 10 are flush with upper surface of the grid-like structure 17 a small gap is created below the unseparated lateral protrusions respectively connection webs 10 which defines the predetermined breaking point 32. The thickness of the frame 18 substantially corresponds to the thickness of the carrier element t.sub.c (cf. FIG. 13) respectively of the side walls 33 of the carrier element 5.
[0407] In the following, various inventive bristle field designs are shown which all have advantageous effects for certain applications. The bristle fields may consist of one or more bristle bundles and the bristle bundles may be fixed in one or more opening of the carrier element. The carrier elements 5 and the shafts 2 may be adopted in their shape such that they correspond to the respective bristle field.
[0408] FIG. 32 shows a tent- or tipi-like bristle field which consists of four bristle bundles 6′ which are inclined at an angle towards each other and meet with their tips. The tent- or tipi-shaped bristle bundles 6′ may also be arranged on a ring or a bristle bundle may be formed as a ring. This is achieved by means of a circular bristle bundle or for example by means of multiple angled individual bristle bundles. The bristle bundles 6′ are angled (inwardly) in such a way that the tips meet in a point. The application is thus focused on said one point.
[0409] In FIG. 33 a tongue-shaped bristle field is illustrated. The bristle field in this embodiment consists of three bristle bundles 6′ which define a tongue-shaped curvature of the bristle field. Generally, such bristle bundles or bristle fields are usually not straight but with a substantially kidney-shaped cross-section. Thereby, the cross-sectional shape is adopted to the bristle bundle shape (kidney shape). The end shape may be an inclined surface or else an arch (also two contours in two directions are conceivable). The tree bristle bundles 6′ respectively its bristle elements can also be of various bristle types.
[0410] In FIGS. 34a-34c a pillar bundle is depicted. The bristle field in this embodiment consists of two bristle bundles 6′ with chamfered tips which are inclined at an angle towards each other and meet with their tips. In this manner a roof/tent-shaped application end is provided. In other words, pillar bundles form, in the side view, also a tent but a longitudinal tent. The bristle bundles are preferably straight on the inwardly angled sides and since they are straight the ends meet and form e.g. a center line. However, the bristle bundles may also not meet at the end such that one bristle bundle abuts the other below the free end line of the other bristle bundle. Thus, the bristle bundles may also form offset end lines, as shown in FIGS. 35a-35c. The shown bristle bundles 6′ are formed in two recesses/openings 13′ of the carrier element 5, respectively.
[0411] In FIGS. 36a-36c a double fan bundle is shown. The bristle field in this embodiment consists of two curved bristle bundles 6′ with offset end faces which may be slightly chamfered. The bristle bundles 6′ are formed in one recess of the carrier element, fitting snugly together and forming a step in the side view. Generally, double fan bundles may be formed in one or two recesses/openings of the carrier element. In case of one recess/opening 13 there is provided a continuous bristle bundle with a step, as shown. If the bristle bundles are provided in two recesses/openings they may be distanced when they stand vertically and if they are angled, they may approach each other or may be formed similar to the pillar bundles. The bristle bundles 6′ respectively its bristle elements can also be of various bristle types.
[0412] FIGS. 37 and 38 illustrate two embodiments of a fan bundle. The bristle bundles 6′ define a fan which may be in the form of a reversed truncated cone, as for example shown in FIG. 37. Various angles of inclination are possible for the bristle elements forming the outer sleeve. The center portion may be made from different bristle type as the rest or a further bristle type may protrude from or may be integrated into the structure. The fans formed in this manner may consist of different bristle elements. The end face may also form of an inclined surface with a protruding central bristle bundle portion, as shown in FIG. 38.
[0413] FIGS. 39 and 40 illustrate two embodiments of a coat bundle. The bristle bundles 6′ define a sheath- or coat-like bristle field which may (at least partially) enclose a hollow space (FIG. 39) or which may enclose a solitary center bristle bundle 6′ (FIG. 40). Usually, the coat bundles are in form of a not a fully closed circle respectively sheath. The end profile of the bristle bundles 6′ may also be chamfered. The coat bundles may consist of multiple bristle types. The center bristle bundle may e.g. consist of conventional bristle elements, injection molded bristle elements or of a rubber elastic massage and cleaning element (of soft material component).
[0414] FIGS. 41 and 42 illustrate two embodiments of a multituft bundle. The bristle bundles 6′ shown in FIG. 41 form three separate standing fans. Two fans similar to the fan in FIG. 36a without step with a smaller cylindrical or oval bristle bundle 6′ in the front portion. The bristle field thus forms two steps. Each single bristle bundle 6′ is at its height.
[0415] Four separated symmetrical bristle bundles 6′ are provided in form of an inverted tipi-tent shape according to FIG. 42. The end portions of the bristle bundles 6′ may be flat or chamfered, respectively. The bristle bundles may be arranged in one, two, three, four or more recesses/openings of the carrier element 5. Multituft bundles generally comprise combinations of various bristle bundles. They may have diverse shapes, e.g. in form of a single tuft bundle or a fan bundle or a tongue bundle or a coat bundle or combinations thereof. Also, various numbers and sorts of steps may be provided in the height profile. Further, various forms of cuts or recesses may be provided between individual bristle bundles.
[0416] Still further inventive bristle field designs are depicted in the following figures which provide front views of the wide sides 22 of shafts 2 with introduced carrier elements, i.e. the fastening means 14 being engaged in the recesses 15. The bristle fields may consist of one or more bristle bundles 6′ and the bristle bundles 6′ may be fixed in one or more opening(s) of the carrier element. Also here, the carrier elements 5 and the shafts 2 could be adopted in their shape such that they correspond to the respective bristle field. All of the shown bristle field designs have an advantageous effect for specific applications.
[0417] FIG. 43 illustrates a rectangular bristle field comprising bristle elements 6 with a flat end portion 34.
[0418] FIG. 44 shows a substantially rectangular bristle field comprising bristle elements 6 with an end portion 35 in the form of a truncated cone.
[0419] FIG. 45 depicts a bristle field comprising bristle elements 6 with a cone-shaped end portion 36.
[0420] FIG. 46 shows a substantially rectangular bristle field comprising bristle elements 6 with an end portion 37 having a rounded corner on one side.
[0421] FIG. 47 shows a substantially rectangular bristle field comprising bristle elements 6 with a (fully) rounded-off end portion 38.
[0422] FIG. 48 depicts a bristle field comprising bristle elements 6 with an end portion 39 in form of a wavy chamfer.
[0423] FIG. 49 illustrates a bristle field comprising bristle elements 6 with a mandrel-shaped end portion 40.
[0424] FIG. 50 depicts a bristle field comprising bristle elements 6 with a notched end portion 41.
[0425] FIG. 51 shows a bristle field comprising bristle elements 6 with a furcated end portion 42 (i.e. one lager notch in the center of the end portion with one smaller notch on each side).
[0426] FIG. 52 depicts a bristle field comprising bristle elements 6 with a serrated or toothed end portion 43.
[0427] FIG. 53 shows a substantially rectangular bristle field with a (fully) rounded-off end portion 44 comprising one bristle elements 6 of a first bristle type.
[0428] FIG. 54 shows a bristle field with a shape as shown in FIG. 53 but comprising bristle elements 6 of a first bristle type (left half) and of bristle elements 6a of a second bristle type (right half).
[0429] FIG. 55 shows a bristle field with a shape as shown in FIG. 53 but comprising bristle elements 6 of a first bristle type and of bristle elements 6a a second bristle type, wherein bristle elements 6a of the second bristle type are arranged in the center of the bristle field and the bristle elements 6 of the first bristle type are arranged at the left side and at the right side. Each bristle type section approximately comprises ⅓ of the bristle field.
[0430] FIGS. 56 and 57 show a bristle field with a shape as shown in FIG. 53 but comprising bristle elements 6 of a first bristle type, bristle elements 6a of a second bristle type and bristle elements 6b of a third bristle type, wherein bristle elements 6a of the second bristle type are arranged in the center of the bristle field and the bristle elements 6 of the first bristle type are arranged at the left side and the bristle elements 6b of the third bristle type are arranged at the right side. Each type of bristle elements 6, 6a, 6b approximately comprise ⅓ of the bristle field and may generally be in any position (i.e. left, center or right).
[0431] FIG. 58 shows a bristle field with a shape as shown in FIG. 53 but comprising bristle elements 6 of a first bristle type, bristle elements 6a of a second bristle type and bristle elements 6b a third bristle type, wherein bristle elements 6b of the third bristle type form the right half of the bristle field and the bristle elements 6 of the first and bristle elements 6a of the second bristle type together form the left half of the bristle field, wherein the bristle elements 6a of the second bristle type are located adjacent the bristle elements 6b of the third bristle type. The bristle elements 6b of the third bristle type approximately comprises 50% of the bristle field, the bristle elements 6a of the second bristle type approximately comprises 30% of the bristle field and the bristle elements 6 of the first bristle type approximately comprises 20% of the bristle field. Generally, each group of bristle elements of bristle type 6, 6a, 6b may be in any position (i.e. left, center or right) with the respective proportion.
[0432] FIGS. 59a-59c illustrate a further bristle field design which comprises bristle elements 6a of the second bristle type on the front side and bristle elements 6 of the first bristle type on the rear side. The side view of FIG. 59b shows a tampon-shape with 50% bristle elements 6a of the second bristle type and 50% bristle elements 6 of the first bristle type. In the front view, the shape of the bristle field corresponds to FIG. 53.
[0433] FIGS. 60a-60c illustrate a bristle field design similar to FIG. 59a-FIG. 59c which comprises bristle elements 6a of the second bristles type on the front side and bristle elements 6 of the first bristle type on the rear side. However, a layer of bristle elements 6b of the third bristle type 6b is arranged sandwich-like between the bristle elements of the first and second bristles type 6, 6a. Bristle elements 6b of the third bristles type are somewhat shorter arranged than the bristle elements of the two other bristle types 6, 6a. Thus, in the side view of FIG. 60b the tampon-shape comprises a gap in the tip portion, i.e. between the higher standing end portions of the bristle elements of the first and second bristles type 6, 6a. Of course, each bristle type can be arranged in any position, as desired.
[0434] FIGS. 61a-61c illustrate a bristle field design similar to FIG. 60a-FIG. 60c which comprises bristle elements 6a of the second bristle type on the front side, bristle elements 6 of the first bristle type 6 on the rear side and a layer of bristle elements 6b of the third bristle type is arranged sandwich-like between the bristle elements of the first and second bristle type 6, 6a. Here, the layer of bristle elements 6b of the third bristles type is somewhat longer than the bristle elements of the two other bristle types 6, 6a. Thus, in the side view of FIG. 60b the tampon-shape comprises a central protrusion in the tip portion of the bristle elements 6b of the third bristle type, i.e. between the lower standing end portions of bristle elements of the first and second bristles type 6, 6a. Of course, each bristle type can be arranged in any position, as desired.
[0435] FIG. 62 illustrates another finished inventive applicator device 1 according to the present invention. The bristled carrier element 5 has been introduced into the shaft 2 with an angle of about 90° to the longitudinal axis X. The bristle bundles 6′ respectively the bristle field protrudes from the distal end 4 of the shaft 2, around 90° to the longitudinal axis X. Various types of bristle bundles 6′ are shown.
[0436] The width of the shaft 2 at the position of the bristle bundles 6′ is between 3 mm and 7 mm preferably between 3.5 and 5 mm. The length of the carrier element 5 is between 10 mm and 30 mm preferably between 15 mm and 25 mm. The recess in the shaft 2 for receiving the fastening means of the carrier element 5 has preferably the length dimension parallel to the longitudinal axis X.
[0437] Examples for bristle types which may be applied in the context of the present invention are described above in the general description.
[0438] FIG. 63 is a three-dimensional view of parts of an embodiment of an applicator device 1 in an unassembled state. The base element 19 and the shaft 2 are manufactured as separate parts, the bristled carrier element 5 is also separately manufactured and shown separately.
[0439] The carrier element 5 is manufactured as described above. The shaft 2 and the base element 19 are manufactured separately in an injection molding process. The shaft 2 may be further processed after molding, for example by a printing process, as described above.
[0440] After the further processing of the shaft 2, the proximal end 3 of the shaft 2 is connected to the base element 19 by inserting a proximal end portion of the shaft 2 into a recess 191 of the base element 19. The recess 191 has a cross-section corresponding to the shape of the shaft 2 such that the shaft 2 may be connected with the base element 19 in a form-fit manner. The free end of the shaft 2 is defined as distal end 4. On the rear side of the base element 19, a thread 20 or another fastening means is arranged which shall serve as connection means for a grip respectively handle part (not shown). At the free respectively distal end 4 of shaft 2, a receiving opening 7 is provided into which a bristled carrier element 5 shall be introduced. In the upper edge 8 of shaft 2 at the narrow sides 23, recesses 9, preferably in the form of notches, are provided. In the wide sides 22 of the shaft 2, recesses 15, preferably in form of through-holes or slots, are provided which shall act together with corresponding fastening means of a carrier element 5.
[0441] In FIG. 64 the finished applicator device 1 of FIG. 63 is shown. The three parts, base element 19, shaft 2 and bristled carrier element 5, are assembled and build the finished applicator similar to the one shown in FIG. 20.
[0442] FIGS. 65 to 67 illustrate a further inventive applicator device 1. The bristled carrier element 5 has been introduced into the shaft 2. The shaft 2 has a circular round cross section. The bristle elements 6 respectively the bristle field protrudes from the distal end 4 of the shaft 2. At the proximal end 3 of the shaft 2, the base element 19 with fastening means 20 is arranged. Between the bristle elements 6, a fluid outlet 45 is arranged. As the cross section view of FIG. 67 taken according to line D-D in FIG. 66 shows, the fluid outlet 45 is arranged at a distal end of a fluid channel 46. The fluid channel 46 establishes a fluid connection from a tank or fluid reservoir of an applicator medium (not shown) which is connected to the base element 19, to the fluid outlet 45. The fluid respectively applicator medium can flow from the tank or fluid reservoir (not shown) through the fluid channel 46 to the fluid outlet 45. The fluid outlet 45 is arranged between the bristle elements respectively bristle bundles 6 so the fluid can directly flow to the bristle elements 6 which form the application elements. The bristle elements respectively bristle bundles 6 are arranged in the form of a tent similar to the arrangement shown in FIG. 32.
[0443] The fluid channel 46 comprises, as shown, two fluid channel parts 461, 462. A first fluid channel part 461 is formed within the shaft 2. The first fluid channel part 461 respectively the section of the fluid channel 46 with the first fluid channel part 461 has a diameter d.sub.f1 at the proximal end 3 of the shaft 2 which is larger than a diameter d.sub.f2 of the first fluid channel part 461 at the distal end 4 of the shaft 2. There is a step 47 in the first fluid channel part 461 which is located in the third of the first fluid channel part 461 next to the distal end 4 of the shaft 2. The first fluid channel part 461 communicates at the distal end 4 of the shaft 2 with a second fluid channel part 462 of the fluid channel 46 which is formed as a through-hole 51 in the carrier element 5. At the distal end 4 of the shaft 2, a tube-like extension 48 is formed in the depression 26 of the receiving opening 7. The first fluid channel part 461 extends with its smaller diameter section into the tube-like extension 48. The first fluid channel part 461 is arranged centrally within the shaft 2. The inner wall of the first fluid channel part 461 and the inner wall of the second fluid channel part 462 are flush at an edge 49 of the tube-like extension 48 which forms the interface between the first fluid channel part 461 and the second fluid channel part 462. The second fluid channel part is arranged centrally within the carrier element 5. The carrier element 5 comprises a recess 50 which is dimensioned to receive the tube-like extension 48. The melt carpets 30 of the bristle elements 6 are arranged next to the recess 50 such that the melt carpets 30 do not interfere the introduction of the tube-like extension 48 into the recess 50. In other embodiments, the carrier element 5 may comprise a tube-like extension with a section of the second fluid channel part extending into the tube-like extension and the shaft 2 may comprise a recess dimensioned to receive the tube-like extension. In other embodiments, the shaft or the carrier element may not comprise a recess to receive the tube-like extension and the tube-like extension of the carrier element or of the shaft may abut on a flat abutting face of the shaft or of the carrier element, respectively. The length of the tube-like extension 48 is set in a way that the fluid channel 46 extends without a leakage to the carrier element 5. The fluid channel 46 is lead through the carrier element 5 by the through hole 51, whereby the fluid outlet 45 is formed at the upper side 27 of the carrier element 5. At the proximal end of the shaft 2, the fluid channel 46 or fluid inlet 52 ends into an inner side 53 of the base element 19 which forms a recessed inner side of the thread 20. FIG. 67 shows that the fluid outlet 45 is arranged between the bristle elements 6. Further, it can be seen that the passage of the fluid channel 46 from the shaft 2 to the carrier element 5 is established as the two shaft 2 and the carrier element 5 are pressed against each other and fit closely. Thus, the fluid channel 46 allows an applicator medium to flow from a tank connected to the base element 19 through the shaft 2 and the carrier element 5 to the bristle elements 6.
LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS
[0444] 1 applicator device [0445] 2 shaft [0446] 3 proximal end shaft [0447] 4 distal end shaft [0448] 5 carrier element [0449] 6 bristle elements (first type) [0450] 6a bristle elements (second type) [0451] 6b bristle elements (third type) [0452] 6′ bristle bundles [0453] 7 receiving opening [0454] 8 upper edge of shaft [0455] 9 recess in upper edge (notch) [0456] 10 lateral protrusions of carrier element (and connection webs in the unseparated state) [0457] 11 free end of bristle element [0458] 12 mounting end of bristle element [0459] 13 central opening of carrier element [0460] 13′ recesses/openings of carrier element [0461] 14 fastening means carrier element [0462] 15 recess in distal shaft end (slot/through-hole) [0463] 17 grid-like structure [0464] 18 frame [0465] 19 base element [0466] 191 recess [0467] 20 thread [0468] 21 support collar [0469] 22 wide side of shaft [0470] 23 narrow side of shaft [0471] 25 recess in frame [0472] 26 depression in distal shaft end [0473] 27 upper side carrier element [0474] 28 rear side carrier element [0475] 29 bristle field with rounded edge [0476] 30 melt carpet [0477] 31 bottom of depression [0478] 32 predetermined breaking point [0479] 33 side walls carrier element [0480] 34 bristle field with rectangular shape [0481] 35 bristle field with truncated cone [0482] 36 bristle field with cone-shaped tip [0483] 37 bristle field with rounded edge [0484] 38 bristle field with rounded corner [0485] 39 bristle field with wavy chamfer [0486] 40 bristle field with mandrel-shaped tip [0487] 41 bristle field with notched tip [0488] 42 bristle field with furcated tip [0489] 43 bristle field with serrated tip [0490] 44 bristle field with rounded tip [0491] 45 fluid outlet [0492] 46 fluid channel [0493] 461 first fluid channel part [0494] 462 second fluid channel part [0495] 47 step [0496] 48 tube-like extension [0497] 49 edge [0498] 50 recess [0499] 51 through hole [0500] 52 fluid inlet [0501] 53 inner side [0502] X longitudinal axis [0503] c.sub.co conicity central opening [0504] c.sub.d conicity depression [0505] c.sub.rs conicity recess distal shaft end [0506] d.sub.s depth shaft [0507] d.sub.d total depth depression [0508] d.sub.d1 first depth depression [0509] d.sub.d2 second depth depression [0510] d.sub.f1 large diameter of the first fluid channel part [0511] d.sub.f2 small diameter of the first fluid channel part [0512] d.sub.ru depth recess upper edge [0513] h.sub.fc height fastening means carrier element [0514] h.sub.rs height recess in distal shaft end [0515] l.sub.c length carrier element [0516] l.sub.co length central opening [0517] l.sub.d length depression [0518] l.sub.fc length fastening means carrier element [0519] l.sub.gs length grid-like structure [0520] l.sub.rs length recess in distal shaft end [0521] l.sub.s length shaft [0522] w.sub.c width carrier element [0523] w.sub.co width central opening [0524] w.sub.d width depression [0525] w.sub.gs width grid-like structure [0526] w.sub.ru width recess upper edge [0527] w.sub.s width shaft [0528] w.sub.sc width support collar [0529] t.sub.c thickness carrier element [0530] t.sub.mc thickness melt carpet [0531] t.sub.pc thickness protrusion carrier element [0532] t.sub.ws thickness wall shaft [0533] t.sub.wc thickness wall carrier element
