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Patent application title: MASCARA APPLICATOR AND DISPENSER

Inventors:  Barbara Carey (Orinda, CA, US)
IPC8 Class: AA45D4026FI
USPC Class: 132200
Class name: METHODS
Publication date: 11/05/2009
Patent application number: 20090272395

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Abstract:

A mascara dispensing system is disclosed. The system includes an applicator unit with an applicator brush attached to a revolving running staff surrounded by a stabilizing sleeve. The applicator unit is configured to automatically revolve the applicator brush in a selectable direction and/or at a selectable rotational speed via a control pad or switch. The system also includes a container unit that holds a mascara formulation or a replaceable mascara cartridge. In some embodiments, the mascara dispensing system includes features to extrude the mascara.

Claims:

1. An apparatus comprising:a. a handle;b. an applicator brush with a revolving running staff coupled to the handle; andc. a rotating component coupled to the handle for manually rotating the applicator brush.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a stabilizing sleeve coupled to the handle and surrounding the revolving running staff.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a locking mechanism configured for locking the component.

4. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the rotating component comprises a rotatable component.

5. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the rotating component is selected from the group consisting of a dial, a switch, a lever, a trigger and a button.

6. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the rotating component is coupled to one or more internal gears configured for rotating the revolving running staff.

7. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein the internal gears include a flywheel.

8. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein the internal gears are configured to rotate the applicator brush faster than the rotatable component.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a mascara storage compartment for storing mascara within the handle.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the applicator brush is configured to extrude the mascara.

11. A system comprising:a. an applicator unit comprising:i. a handle;ii. an applicator brush with a revolving running staff coupled to the handle;iii. a rotatable component coupled to the handle, the rotatable component for manually rotating the applicator brush; andiv. a locking mechanism coupled to the rotatable component, the locking mechanism for locking the rotatable component; andb. a container unit with a removable and replaceable mascara cartridge for holding a mascara, wherein the container detachably couples to the applicator brush and over the applicator brush through one or more of a twist lock features and snap features.

12. The system of claim 11 further comprising a stabilizing sleeve coupled to the handle and surrounding the revolving running staff.

13. The system of claim 11 wherein the rotatable component is selected from the group consisting of a dial, a switch, a lever, a trigger and a button.

14. The system of claim 11 wherein the component is coupled to internal gears configured for rotating the revolving running staff.

15. The system of claim 14 wherein the internal gears include a flywheel.

16. The system of claim 14 wherein the internal gears are configured to rotate the applicator brush faster than the rotatable component.

17. The system of claim 11, further comprising a mascara storage compartment for storing the mascara within the handle.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the applicator brush is configured to extrude the mascara.

19. A method of utilizing a mascara applicator comprising:a. positioning the mascara applicator near an eyelash; andb. applying mascara to the eyelash while the applicator brush is manually turned by a user.

20. The method of claim 19 wherein manually turned by the user comprises moving one of a dial, a switch, a lever, a trigger and a button.

Description:

RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001]This patent application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/466,946, filed on May 15, 2009, titled, "WINDABLE MASCARA APPLICATOR AND DISPENSER", which is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/005,723, filed on Dec. 28, 2007, titled, "MASCARA APPLICATOR AND DISPENSER", which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 (e) of the co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/964,989, filed Aug. 15, 2007, and entitled "MASCARA APPLICATOR AND DISPENSER." The co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/466,946, filed on May 15, 2009, titled, "WINDABLE MASCARA APPLICATOR AND DISPENSER," co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/005,723, filed on Dec. 28, 2007, titled, "MASCARA APPLICATOR AND DISPENSER" and the Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/964,989, filed Aug. 15, 2007, and entitled "MASCARA APPLICATOR AND DISPENSER" are all also hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002]This invention relates generally to cosmetics. More specifically, this invention relates to systems and devices for applying and dispensing mascara.

BACKGROUND ON INVENTION

[0003]Various techniques have been employed to package mascara and apply the mascara to eyelashes. Many of the prior art devices and systems include an applicator unit with a handle and an applicator brush and a container unit with a storage compartment. In use, the applicator brush of the applicator unit fits through a neck portion of the container unit and is dipped into a mascara solution contained therein. The applicator unit and the container unit are typically configured to fit together not only for convenient storage, but also hygienic reasons.

[0004]There are a number of deficiencies with prior art mascara systems and devices. Prior art mascara systems and devices only allow a user to choose a single mascara formulation.

[0005]Also, the applicator brush typically applies the mascara to uneven eyelashes causing the mascara to clump together and/or causing the eyelashes to stick together. To address some of the aforementioned deficiencies, Diaz in U.S. Pat. No. 6,565,276 disclosed a motorized mascara system with an applicator unit that includes a motorized handle. The motorized handle rotates the applicator brush and applies the mascara to the eyelashes in a controlled manner. The motorized handle includes a two-way motor and a switch for changing a rotational direction of the applicator brush. The system of Diaz also includes a container unit with mascara contained therein, wherein the container unit is configured to couple to the motorized handle through a set of threaded features.

[0006]There are also a number of hazards associated with the use and application of eye cosmetics, such as mascara. For example, when mascara is not stored properly and/or if the mascara container is not closed properly, dangerous bacteria or fungi can grow within the mascara. The bacteria or fungi once in the mascara can get into the user's eyes when the mascara is applied to eyelashes and lead to infection. Infection of the eyes can also occur though sharing of the mascara and/or mascara applicators.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007]The present invention is directed to a mascara system and applicator that provides for easy and proper storage of the mascara and reduce the potential for contamination of the mascara that can result in the growth of bacteria or fungi. The mascara system and applicator also provides safety features that reduce the chance of injury to eyes or eyelashes when the mascara is being applied. The system and applicator also allows for changing applicator tips and/or mascara formations without requiring replacement of the entire system or applicator.

[0008]The present invention is directed to a system for applying mascara to eyelashes uniformly and hygienically. The system includes a motorized applicator unit. The motorized applicator unit includes an applicator. The applicator includes an applicator brush and a revolving running staff. The motorized applicator unit further includes a motorized handle for automatically rotating the applicator brush and the revolving running staff in a selectable direction and/or at a selectable rotational speed. The motorized applicator unit also includes a stabilizing sleeve coupled to the motorized handle and surrounding the revolving running staff. The stabilizing sleeve helps to stabilize positioning of the applicator brush as it revolves and provides a high degree of control while applying the mascara to the eyelashes. The motorized applicator unit also includes a built-in safety clutch that is coupled to the revolving running staff. The built-in safety clutch prevents the revolving running staff from moving when a sufficient pressure and/or force is applied to the applicator brush. The built-in safety clutch thereby provides a degree of safety for the user in the event that the bush head contacts a portion of the user's eye and/or gets caught on a portion of the user's eyelash or surrounding hair, causing the brush to stop.

[0009]The system further includes a container unit. The container unit is configured to detachably couple to the motorized applicator unit and over the applicator brush, revolving running staff and stabilizing sleeve through one or more securing features. The securing features include one or more twist and lock features, snap features and compression features. The securing features provides a user feedback that encourages proper use of the mascara system, adds to the longevity to the mascara and reduces the risk contamination to the mascara. For example, the securing features make a nose, click or vibrate when the container unit is properly coupled to the motorized applicator unit.

[0010]The twist and lock features are similar to those used on small light bulbs to fix the small light bulb into a light bulb socket. In accordance with the embodiments of the invention, the twist and lock features include protruding or nodule features on the container unit and/or on the motorized applicator unit. The protruding features are configured to fit into or slide into contoured grooved or slotted features on the container unit and/or motorized applicator. In operation the system is closed for storage by placing the protruding or nodule features into the contoured grooved or slotted features or by sliding the protruding or nodule features into the contoured grooved or slotted features. Then the container unit and motorized applicator are pressed together and twisted relative to each other. Twisting the container unit and the motorized applicator relative to each other causes the protruding or nodule features and the contoured grooved or slotted features to snap or pop into a locked position, thereby holding the container unit and the motorized applicator firmly together. Twist and lock features provide a tactile and/or audible indication that the system is properly closed or sealed for storage. For example the twist and lock features make a popping or clicking sound that can be heard and or a detent that can be felt by the user when the system is properly closed or sealed for storage.

[0011]The securing feature provides an air tight seal between the container unit and the motorized handle when they are coupled together, which helps to prevent air-born contaminants from entering the mascara while the system is being stored. The container unit also includes a contoured insert feature that minimizes the amount of air or space between the container unit and the motorized applicator unit when they are coupled together and, thereby, minimizes drying of the mascara and further reduces air-born contaminants from entering the mascara while the system is being stored.

[0012]In accordance with the embodiments of the invention the motorized handle includes a touch control panel or switch. The touch control panel or switch is configured for controlling one or more of a rotational direction of the applicator brush and a speed of rotation of the applicator brush. The motorized handle also includes a power supply, which is either a replaceable battery or a permanently sealed battery. The motorized handle, in further embodiments of the invention, is configured to plug into an outlet through a power cord and/or configured to be recharged through a cord plugged into a power outlet.

[0013]In accordance with the embodiments of the invention, the container unit includes a compartment for holding a mascara. The compartment is configured to directly hold mascara or alternatively is configured to receive and hold a replaceable mascara cartridge and/or a replaceable mascara cartridge with a brush. The container unit also includes a wiping sleeve for removing excess mascara from the applicator brush when the motorized applicator unit and container unit are separated.

[0014]In still further embodiments of the invention, a system includes a motorized applicator unit, such as described above and below and a set or plurality of container units or replaceable cartridges. The container units and/or cartridges each contain a suitable mascara formulation and/or mascara formulation with a brush are each configured to detachably couple to the motorized applicator unit or a container unit, respectively. The container units or cartridges include identifiers. The identifiers provides an indication of a color or other physical property of the mascara formulation contained therein. Suitable identifiers include, but are not limited to, geocentric shapes, color markers and labels. The system in accordance with the embodiments of the invention also includes a tray for holding and displaying the container units or the cartridges. The system can also include any number of detachable and replaceable applicators or applicator brushes.

[0015]In accordance with some embodiments, an apparatus comprises a handle, an applicator brush with a revolving running staff coupled to the handle and a component coupled to the handle, the component configured for manually rotating the applicator brush.

[0016]In accordance with some embodiments, a system comprising an applicator unit comprises a handle, an applicator brush with a revolving running staff coupled to the handle, a rotatable component coupled to the handle, the rotatable component configured for manually rotating the applicator brush and a locking mechanism coupled to the rotatable component, the locking mechanism configured for locking the rotatable component and a container unit with a removable and replaceable mascara cartridge for holding a mascara, wherein the container detachably couples to the applicator brush and over the applicator brush through one or more of a twist lock features and snap features.

[0017]In still further embodiments, a method of utilizing a mascara applicator comprises positioning the mascara applicator near an eyelash, applying mascara to the eyelash while the applicator brush is manually turned by a user.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0018]FIG. 1 shows a mascara system, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0019]FIG. 2 shows a mascara with a flexible running staff and a stabilizing sleeve, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0020]FIGS. 3A-B show eyelashes with mascara applied using a tradition mascara applicator and the mascara applicator in accordance with some embodiments.

[0021]FIG. 4 shows a mascara system with packaging that allows a user to demonstrate and observe rotation of the revolving running staff and the applicator brush without removing or opening the packaging, in accordance some embodiments.

[0022]FIGS. 5A-B show an exploded and a cross-sectional view of a mascara systems, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0023]FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-section view of a windable applicator and dispenser system in accordance with some embodiments.

[0024]FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator unit of the windable applicator and dispenser system in accordance with some embodiments.

[0025]FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart of a method of utilizing the windable applicator and dispenser system in accordance with some embodiments.

[0026]FIG. 9 illustrates an applicator and dispenser system in accordance with some embodiments.

[0027]FIG. 10 illustrates an applicator and dispenser system in accordance with some embodiments.

[0028]FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator unit in accordance with some embodiments.

[0029]FIG. 12A illustrates a front view of an applicator and dispenser system according to some embodiments.

[0030]FIG. 12B illustrates a front view of a modified applicator and dispenser system according to some embodiments.

[0031]FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator unit with a switch according to some embodiments.

[0032]FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator unit with a lever according to some embodiments.

[0033]FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator unit with a button according to some embodiments.

[0034]FIG. 16 illustrates cross-section view of an applicator unit with a gear set configured for providing an increased rotational speed according to some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0035]Referring to FIG. 1, a system 100 in accordance with the embodiments of the invention includes a motorized applicator unit 121 and a container unit 101 that detachably couples to the motorized applicator unit 121. The motorized applicator unit 121 includes an applicator brush 107 and a revolving running staff 113. The container unit 101 is configured to detachably couple to the motorized applicator unit 121 and over the brush applicator 107 through one or more securing features 109. Suitable securing features include, but are not limited to, snap features and compression features and/or protrusion or nodule features with matched contoured grooved or slotted features, also referred to herein as twist and lock securing features. The securing features provide a user feedback that encourages proper use of the mascara system, adds to the longevity to the mascara and reduces the risk contamination to the mascara. For example, the twist and lock feature provides a tactile and/or audible indication that the container unit 101 motorized applicator 121 are properly sealed for storage.

[0036]The motorized applicator unit 121 includes a motorized handle 123 that is configured to automatically rotate the applicator brush 107 in a selectable direction and/or at a selectable speed. The motorized handle 123 includes a built-in motor 117 with a drive mechanism (not shown) for rotating the revolving running staff 113 and the applicator brush 107. The built-in motor 117 is a multi-direction and/or a variable speed motor that responds to and/or is controlled by switch with a touch control panel or pad 119. The motorized applicator unit 121 also includes a stabilizing sleeve 111 coupled to the motorized handle 123 and surrounding the revolving running staff 113. The stabilizing running staff 111 helps to stabilize the positioning of the applicator brush 107 as it revolves and provides a high degree of control while applying the mascara to the eyelashes.

[0037]Referring now to FIG. 2, the motorized applicator unit 121 also includes a built-in safety clutch 118 that is coupled to the revolving running staff 113. The built-in safety clutch 118 prevents the revolving running staff 113 from moving when a sufficient pressure and/or force is applied to the applicator brush and/or when the revolving running staff 113 is bent in a direction indicted by the arrow 130 away from its normal central position.

[0038]The built-in safety clutch 118, thereby, provides a degree of safety for the user in the event that the brush head contacts a portion of the user's eye and/or gets caught on a portion of the user's eyelash or surrounding hair.

[0039]Referring more to both FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, in accordance with the embodiments of the invention the revolving running staff 113 and the applicator brush 107 are configured to detachably couple to the motorized handle 123, such that the revolving running staff 113 and the applicator brush 107 can be replaced when the applicator brush 107 is worn out or when changing mascara formulations, mascara cartridges or container units, such as described below.

[0040]In accordance with further embodiments of the invention, the system 100 includes additional applicator units (not shown) with running staffs and applicator heads that are interchanged with the revolving running staff 113 and the applicator brush 107 shown. Accordingly, the system 100 of the present invention is capable of being used with any number of cosmetic products. For example, mascara cartridges, such as a mascara cartridge 127 described below, is manufactured with an applicator unit and sold separately from the motorized handle 121. In operation, a user attaches the applicator unit to the motorized handle 121 to dispense and apply mascara from a separate mascara cartridge.

[0041]In accordance with further embodiments of the invention, the motorized handle 123 includes a touch control panel or pad 119 for controlling one or more of a rotational direction of the applicator brush 107 and a speed of rotation of the applicator brush 107. The touch control panel or pad 119 is circular, which allow the user to migrate through selections or setting on touch control panel or pad 119 without looking at the touch control panel or pad 119. In accordance with this embodiment, the motorized handle 123 includes an internal power supply, such as a battery that is configured to be recharged through a suitable charging unit 135. Alternatively, the motorized handle 123 is configured to be powered through a disposable and replaceable battery 517 (FIGS. 5A-B) that fits into a body portion of the motorized handle 123 and which is accessible by removing a cap feature 115. The battery 517 is in an alternative embodiment of the invention is permanently sealed within the body portion of the motorized handle 123. In further embodiments of the invention, the motorize handle 123 is powered through a cord that plugs into a power outlet (not shown) or a rechargeable battery.

[0042]The container unit 101 includes a compartment 103 for holding a mascara and a wiping sleeve 105 for removing excess mascara from the applicator brush 107 when the applicator brush 107 is dipped into the mascara and separated from the container unit 101.

[0043]In accordance with further embodiments of the invention, the system 100 includes one or more removable and replaceable mascara cartridges 125 with a compartment 127 for holding mascara. The mascara cartridges 125 are configured to fit into the compartment 103 of the container unit 101, such that a user can select or change mascara without replacing the container unit 101 and/or the motorized applicator unit 121. The system 100 can also include a display tray 150 with docking sites 131 and 133 for holding the mascara cartridges 125. The mascara cartridges 125 include wiping sleeves 129 for removing excess mascara from the applicator brush 107 in a manner described previously. The system 100 can also include any number of replaceable revolving running staffs 113 and/or replaceable applicator brushes 107 that are provided separately or in combination with the mascara cartridges 125.

[0044]In still further embodiments of the invention, the system 100 includes a plurality of container units, such as the container unit 101 described above. Each of the container units include a suitable mascara formulation. In accordance with this embodiment, the container units include caps 139 and are configured to fit into the docking sites 131 and 133 of the display tray 150. In further embodiments of the invention the container units 101, cartridges 127 and/or caps 139 include identifiers 143 and 141. The identifiers 143 and 141 provide an indication of a color or other physical property of the mascara formulation contained therein. Suitable identifiers include, but are not limited to, geometric shapes, color markers and or labels.

[0045]FIG. 3A shows a view 300 of eyelashes 301 with mascara applied using a traditional mascara applicator. Note that eyelashes 301 are clumped together as a result uneven application of mascara to the eyelashes 301. By way of comparison, FIG. 3B shows a view 350 of eyelashes 301 with the mascara applied using the mascara applicator illustrated in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 4, FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B. Note that the eyelashes 310' are well separated and defined as a result of uniform application of mascara and styling of the eyelashes 310'.

[0046]FIG. 4 show a mascara systems 400 with packaging 401 for displaying the motorized applicator unit 121 and the container unit 101. The packaging allows a user to demonstrate and observe rotation of the revolving running staff 113 and the applicator brush 107 without removing or opening the packaging by pressing or moving the touch pad or switch 119 through a depression or opening 119 in the packaging 401.

[0047]FIGS. 5A-B show an exploded view 500 and a cross-sectional view 550 of a mascara systems, in accordance with the embodiments of the present invention. The system includes a motorized applicator unit 521 and a container unit 501, similar to those described above.

[0048]The motorized applicator unit 521 includes a housing structure 510 with a stabilizing sleeve 511. The motorized applicator unit 521 further includes a motor body insert 519'' that fits into the housing structure 510. The motor body insert 519'' is coupled to a electrical control switch 519' and switch cover or pad 519 for operating the motor insert and rotating the flexible running staff 513 and the applicator brush 507 with the system assembled, such as shown in FIG. 5B.

[0049]The motor body insert 519'' has a cavity for holding a battery 517 that powers the motor body insert 519''. The system also includes a contact pad 514 for providing an electrical connection between the battery 517 the motor body insert 519'' and an end cap 515 for holding the battery within the cavity of the motor body insert 519'' with the system assembled, such as shown in FIG. 5B.

[0050]The container unit 501 includes a cap portion 502, an insert portion 505 and a contoured insert feature 527. As described previously, the container unit 501 is configured to hold mascara and dispense the mascara from the brush applicator 507, when the brush applicator 507 is inserted into the container unit 501 and removed from the container unit 501. The contoured insert feature 527 includes a wiping sleeve 527'' for removing excess mascara from the brush applicator 507 when the brush applicator 507 is removed from the container unit 501.

[0051]With the system assembled, the insert portion 505 fits into the cap portion 502 and the contoured insert feature 527 fits behind the insert portion 505 with the conical portion 527' of the contoured insert feature 527 positioned within an opening of the insert portion 550, such as shown in FIG. 5B. The contoured insert feature 527 minimizes the amount of air or space between the container unit 501 and the motorized applicator unit 521 when they are coupled together and, thereby, minimizes drying of the mascara and helps to reduce air-born contaminants from entering the mascara while the system is assembled, for storage, such as shown in FIG. 5B.

[0052]The cap portion 502, the insert portion 505 and the contoured insert feature 527 are held together by a ring structure 539 that screws into matched features 539' on the cap portion 502. The container unit 501 and the motorized applicator unit 521 are configured to detachably couple through twist and lock features 509 and 509'. The twist and lock features 509 and 509' provide a substantially air-tight seal between the container unit 501 and the motorized applicator unit 521 and, thereby, further minimizes drying of the mascara while the system is assembled, such as shown in FIG. 5B. The system of the present further includes a container unit.

[0053]The container unit 501 is configured to detachably couple to the motorized applicator unit and over the applicator brush, revolving running staff and stabilizing sleeve through one or more securing features. The twist and lock features 509 and 509' of the present invention, for example, comprise protruding features or nodules and contoured grooved or slotted features. In operation the protruding features or modules are fitted into contoured grooved or slotted features, the container unit 501 motorized applicator 521 are pressed together and twisted relative to each other causing the protruding features or nodules and the contoured grooved or slotted features to snap or pop into a locked position. The twist and lock features 509 and 509' provide a tactile and/or audible indication that the container unit 501 motorized applicator 521 are properly sealed for storage. For example, the twist and lock features 509 and 509' pop or click when the container unit 501 motorized applicator 521 are properly sealed for storage. The tactile and/or audible indication that the container unit 501 motorized applicator 521 are properly sealed for storage provides a user feedback that encourages proper use of the mascara system, adds to the hygiene of the mascara and this reduces the risk contamination to the mascara.

[0054]It will be clear to one skilled in the art that the container unit 501 and the motorized applicator unit 521 can be configured to detachably couple through any number of different securing features to provide user feedback. For example, the container unit 501 and the motorized applicator unit can include ribbed features capable of being press fitted together.

[0055]FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-section view of a windable applicator and dispenser system 600 in accordance with some embodiments. The windable applicator and dispenser system 600 includes an applicator unit 602 and a container unit 604 that detachably couples to the applicator unit 602. The applicator unit 602 includes an applicator brush 650 (FIG. 7) and a revolving running staff 606. In some embodiments, the container unit 604 is configured to detachably couple to the applicator unit 602 and over the brush applicator 650 (FIG. 7) through one or more securing features. Suitable securing features include, but are not limited to, snap features and compression features and/or protrusion or nodule features with matched contoured grooved or slotted features, also referred to herein as twist and lock securing features. In some embodiments, the securing feature provides a user feedback that encourages proper use of the mascara system, adds to the longevity to the mascara and reduces the risk contamination to the mascara. For example, the twist and lock feature provides a tactile and/or audible indication that the container unit 604 and applicator unit 602 are properly sealed for storage. In some embodiments, the container unit 604 includes a removable and replaceable mascara cartridge.

[0056]The applicator unit 602 includes a handle 610 that is configured to automatically rotate the applicator brush 650 (FIG. 7). The handle 610 includes a windable motor 612 for rotating the revolving running staff 606 and the applicator brush 650 (FIG. 7). In some embodiments, the windable motor 612 is a spring motor. In some embodiments, the windable motor 612 includes overwind protection 630, a speed brake 632 for unwinding and a clutch 634. An external wind gear 614 couples to one or more internal gears/pinions 616 which wind the windable motor 612 when a user winds the external wind gear 614. The external wind gear 614 is also coupled to the applicator brush 650 (FIG. 7) which also turns when the external wind gear 614 is turned. A spring-loaded motor stop 618 is coupled to the internal gears 616 to stop the motor from spinning. In some embodiments, the spring-loaded motor stop 618 engages a pinion to stop the applicator brush 650 (FIG. 7) from spinning. In some embodiments, the applicator unit 602 also includes a stabilizing sleeve 608 coupled to the motorized handle 610 and surrounding the revolving running staff 606. The stabilizing sleeve 608 helps to stabilize the positioning of the applicator brush 650 (FIG. 7) as it revolves and provides a high degree of control while applying the mascara to the eyelashes. In some embodiments, the container unit 604 includes an internal wind gear 620 which corresponds and cooperates with the external wind gear 614 and is able to be used to wind the external wind gear 614.

[0057]FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator unit 602 of the windable applicator and dispenser system 600 in accordance with some embodiments. As described above, the applicator unit 602 includes a handle 610 with an external wind gear 614 and a stop 618. A stabilizing sleeve 608 and an applicator brush 650 are also included. A user is able to wind the spring motor 612 (FIG. 6) via the external wind gear 614. Then, the spring motor 612 (FIG. 6) spins the applicator brush 650 to apply mascara. To stop the spring motor 612 (FIG. 6), the user is able to press the stop 618.

[0058]FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart of a method of utilizing the windable applicator and dispenser system in accordance with some embodiments. In the step 800, it is determined if the container unit is being used to wind the motor. If the container unit is being used, then the container unit is coupled to the applicator unit so that the internal wind gear and the external wind gear cooperate, in the step 802. If the container unit is already coupled to the applicator unit, then the step 802 is able to be skipped. In the step 804, the container unit with the internal wind gear is turned to wind the external wind gear and internal gears/pinions which, in turn, wind the motor. If the container unit is not being used, then in the step 806, the external wind gear is turned which turns internal gears/pinions which wind the motor. The user then applies the mascara as desired, in the step 808. While applying the mascara, the windable motor spins the applicator brush due to the stored up energy from winding the motor. After the mascara is applied, the motor is able to continue running and eventually run out of stored energy, or the user is able to manually stop the motor by using the stop mechanism, in the step 810.

[0059]FIG. 9 illustrates an applicator and dispenser system 900 in accordance with some embodiments. The system 900 is able to extrude mascara for convenience. The system includes an applicator unit 902 and a container unit 904 that detachably couples to the applicator unit 902. The applicator unit 902 includes an applicator brush 950 and a revolving running staff 906. In some embodiments, the container unit 904 is configured to detachably couple to the applicator unit 902 and over the brush applicator 950 through one or more securing features. Suitable securing features include, but are not limited to, snap features and compression features and/or protrusion or nodule features with matched contoured grooved or slotted features, also referred to herein as twist and lock securing features. In some embodiments, the securing feature provides a user feedback that encourages proper use of the mascara system, adds to the longevity to the mascara and reduces the risk contamination to the mascara. For example, the twist and lock features provides a tactile and/or audible indication that the container unit 904 and applicator unit 902 are properly sealed for storage.

[0060]The applicator unit 902 includes a handle 910 that is configured to automatically rotate the applicator brush 950. The handle 910 includes a motor 912 for rotating the revolving running staff 906 and the applicator brush 950. In some embodiments, the motor 912 is a windable spring motor as described above including other components such as the gears/pinions to wind the spring. In some embodiments, the applicator unit 902 also includes a stabilizing sleeve 908 coupled to the motorized handle 910 and surrounding the revolving running staff 906. The stabilizing sleeve 908 helps to stabilize the positioning of the applicator brush 950 as it revolves and provides a high degree of control while applying the mascara to the eyelashes. In some embodiments, a mascara storage unit 920 is included within the handle 910 with access to refill the mascara. The mascara storage unit 920 is coupled to a mascara extrusion tube 922 which extrudes the mascara out of the applicator brush 950. In some embodiments, bristles 952 of the applicator brush 950 are hollow and allow the mascara to be extruded through the bristles 952 to be applied.

[0061]FIG. 10 illustrates an applicator and dispenser system 1000 in accordance with some embodiments. The system 1000 is able to extrude mascara for convenience. The system includes an applicator unit 1002 and a container unit 1004 that detachably couples to the applicator unit 1002. In some embodiments, the container unit 1004 is a cover/cap and does not contain anything. The applicator unit 1002 includes an applicator brush 1050, a revolving running staff 1006, a rotatable component and a handle 1010. In some embodiments, the container unit 1004 is configured to detachably couple to the applicator unit 1002 and over the brush applicator 1050 through one or more securing features. Suitable securing features include, but are not limited to, snap features and compression features and/or protrusion or nodule features with matched contoured grooved or slotted features, also referred to herein as twist and lock securing features. In some embodiments, the securing feature provides a user feedback that encourages proper use of the mascara system, adds to the longevity to the mascara and reduces the risk contamination to the mascara. For example, the twist and lock features provide a tactile and/or audible indication that the container unit 1004 and applicator unit 1002 are properly sealed for storage.

[0062]In some embodiments, the applicator unit 1002 includes the handle 1010 that is configured to enable a user to rotate the applicator brush 1050. In some embodiments, the rotatable component 1014 couples between the handle 1010 and a stabilizing sleeve 1008. In some embodiments, the rotatable component 1014 is located elsewhere. In some embodiments, when a user turns the rotatable component 1014, the revolving running staff 1006 and the applicator brush 1050 rotate. For example, a user holds the applicator unit 1002 with four fingers at the handle 1010 and uses her thumb to rotate/move the rotatable component 1014 which rotates the applicator brush 1050 to apply mascara with a rotating brush. The stabilizing sleeve 1008 is able to stabilize the rotation of the applicator brush 1050. Further description of the stabilizing sleeve 1008 is able to be found above. In some embodiments, the brush 1050 is coupled to the rotatable component 1014 without a stabilizing sleeve. A locking mechanism 1018 is coupled to the rotatable component 1014 to lock the rotatable component 1014 to prevent rotation. The locking mechanism 1018 is able to be any locking mechanism including, but not limited to, a lock/unlock switch, a locking button or any other implementation. In some embodiments, a mascara storage unit 1020 is included within the handle 1010 with access to refill the mascara. The mascara storage unit 1020 is coupled to a mascara extrusion tube 1022 which extrudes the mascara out of the applicator brush 1050. In some embodiments, bristles 1052 of the applicator brush 1050 are hollow and allow the mascara to be extruded through the bristles 1052 to be applied.

[0063]FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator unit 1002 in accordance with some embodiments. As described above, the applicator unit 1002 includes a handle 1010 that is configured to enable a user to rotate the applicator brush 1050. A rotatable component 1014 couples between the handle 1010 and the stabilizing sleeve 1008. In some embodiments, when a user turns the rotatable component 1014, the applicator brush 1050 rotates. A locking mechanism 1018 is coupled to the rotatable component 1014 to lock the rotatable component 1014 to prevent rotation.

[0064]FIG. 12A illustrates a front view of an applicator and dispenser system 1000 according to some embodiments. A container unit 1004 is configured to detachably couple to the applicator unit 1002 (FIG. 10) at the handle 1010. The container unit 1004 covers the upper part of the applicator unit 1002 (FIG. 10) including the rotatable component 1014 (FIG. 10). As described above, the container unit 1004 is able to couple to the handle 1010 utilizing any implementation.

[0065]FIG. 12B illustrates a front view of a modified applicator and dispenser system 1000' according to some embodiments. A container unit 1004' is configured to detachably couple to the applicator unit 1002 (FIG. 10) near or at the rotatable component 1014.

[0066]The container unit 1004 covers some of the upper part of the applicator unit 1002 (FIG. 10) but does not include the rotatable component 1014. As described above, the container unit 1004 is able to couple to the applicator unit 1002 (FIG. 10) utilizing any implementation.

[0067]FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator unit 1302 with a switch 1314 according to some embodiments. The switch 1314 is configured to operate with an internal gear mechanism 1316 similar to the internal gear mechanism described herein, to manually rotate the applicator brush 1350. When used with the switch 1314, the internal gear mechanism 1316 is configured so that as a user moves the switch 1314 back and forth, the applicator brush 1350 rotates, thus allowing a manual operation of the rotatable applicator brush 1350. For example, each time the user moves the switch 1314 in either direction, the applicator brush 1350 gains rotational speed.

[0068]FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator unit 1402 with a lever 1414 according to some embodiments. The lever 1414 is configured to operate with an internal gear mechanism 1416 similar to the internal gear mechanism described herein, to manually rotate the applicator brush 1450. When used with the lever 1414, the internal gear mechanism 1416 is configured so that as a user moves the lever 1414 up and down or back and forth, the applicator brush 1450 rotates, thus allowing a manual operation of the rotatable applicator brush 1450. For example, each time the user moves the lever 1414 in either direction, the applicator brush 1450 gains rotational speed.

[0069]FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator unit 1502 with a button 1514 according to some embodiments. The button 1514 is configured to operate with an internal gear mechanism 1516 similar to the internal gear mechanism described herein, to manually rotate the applicator brush 1550. When used with the button 1514, the internal gear mechanism 1516 is configured so that as a user repeatedly presses the button 1514, the applicator brush 1550 rotates, thus allowing a manual operation of the rotatable applicator brush 1550. For example, each time the user presses the button 1514, the applicator brush 1550 gains rotational speed.

[0070]Similarly, other implementations such as a trigger and a dial are able to be used to manually rotate the applicator brush.

[0071]FIG. 16 illustrates cross-section view of an applicator unit 1602 with a gear set 1616 configured for providing an increased rotational speed according to some embodiments. The applicator unit 1602 includes an applicator brush 1650 and a revolving running staff 1606. The applicator unit 1602 includes a handle 1610 that includes an external gear 1614 coupled to the gear set 1616. The gear set 1616 is configured for rotating the revolving running staff 1606 and the applicator brush 1650 at an increased speed. For example, the external gear 1614 has a diameter larger than a gear coupled to the revolving running staff 1606 of the gear set 1616. In some embodiments, the external gear 1614 has a diameter twice as large as the gear coupled to the revolving running staff 1606. In some embodiments, the ratio of the diameters of the gears is able to be higher such as 3:1, 4:1 and higher. For example, when a user rotates the external gear 1614 at a speed X (or N revolutions/minute), the applicator brush 1650 rotates at a speed 3X (or 3N revolutions/minute). In some embodiments, the applicator unit 1602 also includes a stabilizing sleeve 1608 coupled to the handle 1610 and surrounding the revolving running staff 1606. The stabilizing sleeve 1608 helps to stabilize the positioning of the applicator brush 1650 as it revolves and provides a high degree of control while applying the mascara to the eyelashes. Although an external gear 1614 is coupled to the gear set 1616, any mechanism for rotating the gear set 1616 is able to be used. For example, the switch, lever, dial, trigger or button are able to be coupled to the gear set 1616 with the amplified rotation so that the applicator brush 1650 rotates more quickly. In some embodiments, the gear set 1616 includes a flywheel. The flywheel is a heavy gear, disk or wheel rotating on a shaft so that its momentum gives almost uniform rotational speed to any coupled objects such as the applicator brush 1650. For example, the flywheel will ensure that the applicator brush 1650 rotates uniformly and provides an even application of the mascara.

[0072]The applicator and dispenser system is able to include any dimensions (length, width, depth), any proportions (e.g. a short/long cap, a short/long handle and others), any shape (cylindrical, rectangular, ovular and others), any weight and any color.

[0073]In some embodiments, to utilize the applicator and dispenser system, a user positions the applicator brush near her eyelashes, and then manually rotates the applicator brush utilizing any of the mechanisms described above. For example, the user uses her thumb to rotate a rotatable component which rotates the applicator brush. While the applicator brush is rotating, the user is able to apply mascara to her eyelashes.

[0074]The present invention has been described in terms of specific embodiments incorporating details to facilitate the understanding of the principles of construction and operation of the invention. Such reference herein to specific embodiments and details thereof is not intended to limit the scope of the claims appended hereto. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications can be made in the embodiment chosen for illustration without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Specifically, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the system of the present invention could be implemented in several different ways and the apparatus disclosed above is only illustrative of the preferred embodiment of the invention and is in no way a limitation.