Applicator without bristles or protrusions

Abstract

The invention relates to an applicator (1) for applying a pasty or flowable substance by means of an applicator mechanism (2), said applicator (1) consisting essentially of a plurality of rods (4) which are joined at the proximal end (PE) of the applicator mechanism (2), preferably integrally fused with one another, and extend from there separately from one another to the distal end (DE) of the applicator mechanism (2), the rods (4) are re-joined at the distal end (DE), preferably integrally fused with each other, each rod (4) having a helical profile between the proximal end (PE) and the distal end (DE), characterized in that the rods (4) are free of outwardly projecting bristles or protrusions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an applicator for applying pasty or flowable substances with an applicator mechanism according to the preamble of the independent claim. Background Art

[0002] Applicators are used to apply cosmetics or other substances like medicines (hereinafter referred to as "paste-like or flowable substances") to the skin, hair or mucous membranes, for example in the nasal cavity. They are first dipped into the substance to be applied. At this point, they usually absorb part of the substance to be applied with their bristles or their peripheral surface. When the applicator is then withdrawn from the substance, it must store the absorbed substance until the substance is applied to the desired location using a rotating and smearing movement.

[0003] Prior art

[0004] In order to enable conventional applicators to absorb and store the substance to be applied, their outer peripheral surface is usually flocked. This gives the applicator a texture, in which the substance to be applied is stored in the recesses of the texture according to its viscosity and surface or interfacial tension. However, this flocking process is relatively complex and time-consuming. In order to flock the applicator, an adhesive layer must first be provided on the surface to be flocked. Then the flocking fibers are applied to the wet adhesive and the adhesive is hardened. In addition, flocking applicators can usually only absorb substances with relatively high viscosities. In addition, the recesses produced by flocking are usually relatively shallow. Therefore, only a thin film of the substance can be absorbed. The distribution of the substance also usually becomes difficult when the applicator is deformed.

[0005] In general, it can be assumed that there are currently no such applicators available in which a material can be stored and which can release it again as soon as it has been deformed in a defined manner due to its own deformation. Summary of the invention

[0006] Fundamental Mission

[0007] In view of the above, the object is to specify an applicator in which a substance can be stored and can be released again in a defined manner when deformed.

[0008] Solution according to the invention

[0009] This problem is solved according to the invention by the features of claim 1 .

[0010] For this purpose, an applicator for applying pasty or flowable substances with an applicator mechanism is proposed, which applicator consists essentially of a plurality of rods, which are joined at the proximal end of the applicator mechanism, preferably fused together in one piece, and from there extend away from one another to the distal end of the applicator mechanism, where the rods are joined again, preferably fused together in one piece, each rod having a spiral course between the proximal end and the distal end. According to the invention, the "proximal end" here refers to the handle-side or grip-side end of the applicator mechanism.

[0011] The applicator according to the invention is characterized in that the stick mentioned has no outwardly protruding bristles or projections.

[0012] The substance for which the applicator is provided has the form of a flowable cosmetic or pharmaceutical substance, in particular in the form of a serum. It can optionally include eyeliners, concealers, hair dyes and facial oils. The substance preferably has a low viscosity, for example in the range of up to 1000 mPas. Ideally, its viscosity is 0.2 to 150 mPas, optimally 0.5 to 75 mPas. In certain other fields of application, the viscosity is between 4000 mPas and 15000 mPas. In still other fields of application, the viscosity is 0.2 to 10000 mPas, optimally 0.5 to 2000 mPas.

[0013] The applicator means is used to absorb a substance, which can accumulate between the rods and remain there until the user applies the applicator means to the surface to be coated. There, the applicator means is deformed in a defined manner so that the surface tension of the substance, which is preferably accumulated as a film between the rods, is broken. As a result, the substance is released in the defined amount required for the application. The released substance can then be distributed on the surface to be applied using the applicator means.

[0014] Preferred improvement options

[0015] A preferred embodiment of the applicator is that the rod forms a basket on the inside at the distal end, in which the substance can be stored, at least when the applicator mechanism is held with the distal end pointing vertically downwards. Thus, safe storage of the substance in the applicator mechanism is ensured, which is the first to be released when the applicator mechanism is deformed.

[0016] It is also particularly preferred that the stick ends at the proximal end in a disc which projects radially outwards all around to serve as a droplet collector which reduces the tendency of the substance to flow along a possibly connected handle. After the substance has been released from the applicator mechanism or after the applicator mechanism has been immersed in the substance, it may happen that excess substance which cannot be absorbed by the applicator mechanism drips and / or flows down from the applicator mechanism in the direction of the handle. For a comfortable and safe application, it is therefore advantageous to keep this excess substance away from the gripping surface of the applicator.

[0017] It is also particularly preferred that the rod has a substantially circular cross section completely or over the majority of its length. On the one hand, this has advantages in terms of manufacturing technology, and on the other hand, this enables substances to be better stored between the rods.

[0018] It is also particularly preferred that the rods directly adjacent at the distal end form a gradually narrowing V-shaped gap in the vicinity immediately before they join, which V-shaped gap is locally narrowed so that the substance stored on the inner side of the applicator mechanism cannot pass through the gap as long as the applicator mechanism is not deformed. This in turn leads to preferred storage and / or release properties of the applicator mechanism. The "vicinity" preferably refers to a distance of at most 20 mm, particularly preferably at most 10 mm, from the joining position of the rods at the distal end.

[0019] Another solution according to the invention

[0020] The invention also relates to an applicator according to the preamble of claim 6 .

[0021] To this end, an applicator for applying pasty or flowable substances using an applicator mechanism is proposed, wherein the structure forming the applicator mechanism consists of a flat, preferably thin-walled and therefore deformable, preferably arched face segment with perforations, which forms a pocket in the distal area in which the substance can be stored.

[0022] The substance for which the applicator is provided has the form of a flowable cosmetic or pharmaceutical substance, in particular in the form of a serum. It can optionally include eyeliners, concealers, hair dyes and facial oils. The substance preferably has a low viscosity, for example in the range of up to 1000 mPas. Ideally, its viscosity is 0.2 to 150 mPas, optimally 0.5 to 75 mPas. In certain other fields of application, the viscosity is between 4000 mPas and 15000 mPas. In still other fields of application, the viscosity is 0.2 to 10000 mPas, optimally 0.5 to 2000 mPas.

[0023] The applicator means are used to absorb substances, which can accumulate between the applicator means and remain there until the user applies the applicator means to the surface to be coated. There, the applicator means are deformed in a defined manner so that the surface tension of the substance, which preferably acts as a film and accumulates between the rods, is broken in the perforations. This releases the substance in the defined amount required for the application. The released substance can then be distributed on the surface to be applied using the applicator means.

[0024] Additional preferred improvement options

[0025] A preferred embodiment of the applicator is that the structure forming the applicator means forms a basket or pocket on the inside at the distal end of the applicator means, in which the substance can be stored, at least when the applicator means is held with the distal end pointing vertically downwards. Thus, safe storage of the substance in the applicator means is ensured, which is the first substance to be released when the applicator means is deformed.

[0026] It is also particularly preferred that the pocket is movably suspended at the proximal end of the applicator mechanism on a leaf spring-like elastic support, which is preferably integrated at the proximal end of the applicator mechanism. These elastic supports are preferably formed by arranging the mentioned perforations in the face segment and lead to the desired deformability of the applicator mechanism.

[0027] It is also particularly preferred that the applicator mechanism has a spoon-shaped shape. This makes it easier to apply the substance to specific body parts, in particular curved body parts, such as cheeks. In addition, it also facilitates the flat distribution of the substance.

[0028] Another solution according to the invention

[0029] The invention also relates to an applicator according to the preamble of claim 10 .

[0030] For this purpose, an applicator for applying pasty or flowable substances is proposed, wherein the applicator as a flat applicator consists of more than two structural layers arranged essentially parallel and spaced apart from one another, wherein each structural layer has perforations which allow the substance to pass through in certain cases.

[0031] The substance for which the applicator is provided has the form of a flowable cosmetic or pharmaceutical substance, in particular in the form of a serum. It can optionally include eyeliners, concealers, hair dyes and facial oils. The substance preferably has a low viscosity, for example in the range of up to 1000 mPas. Ideally, its viscosity is 0.2 to 150 mPas, optimally 0.5 to 75 mPas. In certain other fields of application, the viscosity is between 4000 mPas and 15000 mPas. In still other fields of application, the viscosity is 0.2 to 10000 mPas, optimally 0.5 to 2000 mPas.

[0032] The applicator means are used to absorb substances, which can accumulate between the applicator means and remain there until the user applies the applicator means to the surface to be coated. There, the applicator means are deformed in a defined manner so that the surface tension of the substance, which is preferably accumulated as a film and / or between the structural layers, is broken in the perforations. The substance is thus released in the defined amount required for the application. The released substance can then be distributed on the surface to be applied using the applicator means.

[0033] Additional preferred improvement options

[0034] A preferred embodiment of the applicator is that directly adjacent structural layers are spaced very close to one another so that they retain the substance between them due to capillary action. Thus, a larger amount of substance can be stored in the applicator mechanism.

[0035] It is also particularly preferred that the applicator means tapers triangularly from its proximal end to its distal end, wherein in the region of the triangular tip the plurality of structural layers are preferably connected to one another via a common crossbar. This in turn facilitates the application of the substance to a specific body part, wherein the triangular tip with the reinforcing crossbar also enables a fine application and distribution of the substance. However, if the triangle is placed on the skin with its triangular surface, a planar distribution of the substance is facilitated.

[0036] It is also particularly preferred that each structural layer is composed of edge rods that form the edge of the structural layer on the outside, the edge rods enclosing a free space between them, which is partially filled by a rod structure, which is composed of preferably thinner thin rods, so that the structural layer has a plurality of through-openings in the form of perforations, but the through-openings are preferably small enough that as long as the structural layer is not subjected to a deformation imposed from the outside, the material is at least substantially prevented from passing through the through-openings. Therefore, the through-openings preferably represent the perforations already mentioned in the structural layer. Therefore, these perforations are implicitly formed by the rod structure. Then the material can preferably accumulate in these perforations or through-openings as a film.

[0037] Another solution according to the invention

[0038] The invention also relates to an applicator according to the preamble of claim 14 .

[0039] To this end, an applicator for applying pasty or flowable substances is proposed, wherein the applicator mechanism consists of a rod carrying a plurality of non-circular rings, wherein the rings are fixed to the rod so that each ring protrudes from the rod with a smaller ring segment on one side of the rod and with a larger ring segment on the other side of the rod.

[0040] The substance for which the applicator is provided has the form of a flowable cosmetic or pharmaceutical substance, wherein the applicator is preferably used to apply the substance to eyebrows, eyelashes and / or hair. It can optionally include eyeliners, concealers, hair dyes and facial oils. The substance preferably has a low viscosity, for example in the range of up to 1000 mPas. Ideally, its viscosity is 0.2 to 150 mPas, and optimally 0.5 to 75 mPas. In certain other application areas, the viscosity is between 4000 mPas and 15000 mPas. In other other application areas, the viscosity is 0.2 to 10000 mPa, and optimally 0.5 to 2000 mPa.

[0041] The applicator means are used to absorb substances, which can accumulate between the applicator means and remain there until the user applies the applicator means to the surface to be coated. There, the applicator means are deformed in a defined manner so that the surface tension of the substance accumulated in the ring, preferably as a film and / or between the rings, is broken. The substance is thus released in the defined amount required for the application. The released substance can then be distributed on the surface to be applied using the applicator means.

[0042] In this case, the rings also offer the possibility of styling the eyebrows, eyelashes and / or hair accordingly, since during the application and / or rotational movement of the applicator, the eyebrows, eyelashes and / or hair are accordingly entrained, in particular in the gaps between the rings.

[0043] Additional preferred improvement options

[0044] A preferred embodiment of the applicator is that the orientation of the ring oscillates about a center line extending generally radially as seen from the rod, preferably by up to plus or minus 25°, more preferably by up to plus or minus 15°. This allows for better application properties of the substance.

[0045] It is also preferred that the rings oscillate alternately, preferably in such a way that within a repeating pattern, a ring symmetrically about the center line is followed by a ring tilted to one side relative to the center line, and the ring tilted to one side relative to the center line is followed by a ring tilted to the other side of the center line, and preferably the ring tilted to the other side of the center line is again followed by a ring tilted symmetrically about the center line. In this case, a "repeating pattern" is the smallest independent unit that forms a pattern. The repetition and side-by-side placement of the units results in a corresponding pattern, in the case of the invention a sequence of rings with alternating tilts.

[0046] Another solution according to the invention

[0047] The invention also relates to an applicator according to the preamble of claim 19 .

[0048] To this end, an applicator for applying pasty or flowable substances is proposed, wherein the applicator mechanism consists of a plurality of partitions forming a sieve structure, which together form an enclosure that can retain the substance even under the influence of gravity when the applicator is held in a corresponding twisted position, wherein the sieve structure has fine clear openings, so that the substance cannot completely or substantially reach the outside through the fine clear openings due to its surface tension.

[0049] The substance for which the applicator is provided has the form of a flowable cosmetic or pharmaceutical substance, in particular an oil. It can optionally include eyeliner, concealer or hair dye. The substance preferably has a low viscosity, for example in the range of up to 1000 mPas. Ideally, its viscosity is 0.2 to 150 mPas, optimally 0.5 to 75 mPas. In certain other fields of application, the viscosity is between 4000 mPas and 15000 mPas. In still other fields of application, the viscosity is 0.2 to 10000 mPas, optimally 0.5 to 2000 mPas.

[0050] The applicator means is used to absorb a substance, wherein the substance can accumulate in the applicator means and remain there until the user applies the applicator means to the surface to be coated. There, the applicator means is deformed in a defined manner so that the surface tension of the substance accumulated in the opening, preferably as a film and / or between the shells, is broken. The substance is thus released in the defined amount required for the application. The released substance can then be distributed on the surface to be applied using the applicator means.

[0051] Additional preferred improvement options

[0052] A particularly preferred embodiment provides that the applicator member has at least one additional subarea which at least partially closes the opening of the housing.

[0053] It is also particularly preferred that at least one additional partition consists of at least two main ribs extending along the longitudinal axis, which are preferably connected to one another in a ladder-like manner by straight transverse ribs, wherein ideally, the substance can pass through the ribs of the additional partition more easily than through the ribs of the partition forming the housing. Thus, the housing and the at least one additional partition both form various openings in which the substance can accumulate or can pass through. Since the substance can pass through the opening of the at least one additional partition more easily, the user is provided with the possibility of metering the released substance himself depending on the posture or rotation of the applicator mechanism.

[0054] Another solution according to the invention

[0055] The invention also relates to an applicator according to the preamble of claim 25 .

[0056] For this purpose, an applicator for applying pasty or flowable substances is proposed, wherein the applicator member is a hollow body with a drop-shaped, almond-shaped, plum-shaped or zeppelin-shaped shape and a smooth outer surface, the wall of which has a plurality of preferably circular or polygonal holes and the hollow body is weakened to such an extent that it deforms more than slightly under the action of the forces that occur as intended during application.

[0057] The substance for which the applicator is provided has the form of a flowable cosmetic or pharmaceutical substance, in particular an oil. It can optionally include eyeliner, concealer or hair dye. The substance preferably has a low viscosity, for example in the range of up to 1000 mPas. Ideally, its viscosity is 0.2 to 150 mPas, optimally 0.5 to 75 mPas. In certain other fields of application, the viscosity is between 4000 mPas and 15000 mPas. In still other fields of application, the viscosity is 0.2 to 10000 mPas, optimally 0.5 to 2000 mPas.

[0058] The applicator means is used to absorb a substance, wherein the substance can accumulate in the applicator means and remain there until the user applies the applicator means to the surface to be coated. There, the applicator means is deformed in a defined manner so that the surface tension of the substance accumulated in the opening, preferably as a film and / or in the hollow body, is broken. The substance is thus released in the defined amount required for the application. The released substance can then be distributed on the surface to be applied using the applicator means.

[0059] Additional preferred improvement options

[0060] A preferred embodiment of the applicator is that the clear cross section of the hole is so small that the material stored in the interior of the applicator mechanism leaves the applicator only with a considerable time delay, as long as the applicator is not deformed under the influence of the forces occurring during application. This allows preferred application characteristics to be achieved.

[0061] It is also particularly preferred that the applicator member has a conical region at its distal end without perforations and / or holes. This conical region can be used as an additional reservoir for the substance. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0062] List of Figures

[0063] Example of the first embodiment

[0064] Figure 1 A first preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in a top view.

[0065] Figure 2 A first preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in a three-dimensional view.

[0066] Figure 3 A first preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in front view.

[0067] Example of the Second Embodiment

[0068] Figure 4 A second preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in a top view.

[0069] Figure 5 A second preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in a three-dimensional view.

[0070] Figure 6 A second preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in side view.

[0071] Figure 7 A second preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in front view.

[0072] Example of the third embodiment

[0073] Figure 8 A third preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in a top view.

[0074] Fig. 9 A third preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in a three-dimensional view.

[0075] Fig.10 A third preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in side view.

[0076] Fig.11 A third preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in front view.

[0077] Example of the fourth embodiment

[0078] Fig.12 A fourth preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in side view.

[0079] Fig.13 A fourth preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in a three-dimensional view.

[0080] Fig.14 A fourth preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in a top view.

[0081] Fig.15 A fourth preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in front view.

[0082] Example of the fifth embodiment

[0083] Fig.16 A fifth preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in a top view.

[0084] Fig.17 A fifth preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in a three-dimensional view.

[0085] Fig.18 A fifth preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in side view.

[0086] Fig.19 A fifth preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in front view.

[0087] Example of the Sixth Embodiment

[0088] Fig. 20 A sixth preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in a top view.

[0089] Fig.21 A sixth preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in a three-dimensional view.

[0090] Fig. 22 A sixth preferred embodiment of an applicator according to the invention is shown in front view. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0091] Preferred Embodiments

[0092] Example of the first embodiment

[0093] first, Figures 1 to 3 An example of a first embodiment of the applicator 1 is shown, wherein Figure 1 , the longitudinal axis L of the applicator is shown. Here, the applicator 1 comprises a handle 3 with a disk 5 and an applicator member 2 connected to the disk 5. Here, the applicator member 2 has a proximal end PE (end facing the handle) and a distal end DE (end facing away from the handle).

[0094] Here, the applicator mechanism 2 comprises a plurality of helically arranged rods 4, which are joined at the distal end DE and at the proximal end PE, respectively. Shortly before the joining portion of the rods 4 at the distal end DE, a V-shaped gap 7 is formed between the rods 4. This arrangement of the rods 4 forms a basket 6, which is formed inside the applicator mechanism 6.

[0095] The rods 4 preferably have a circular cross section. In addition, the rods 4 are preferably twisted helically, so that each rod 4 has a first section which, starting from the distal end DE, has a curvature in almost all parts with an adjustment angle of 2° to 10° relative to the longitudinal axis L. Subsequently, the first section transitions into a second section with an opposite curvature, which preferably has an adjustment angle of 10° to 30° relative to the longitudinal axis L. In a third section, the rod 4 preferably transitions with an opposite curvature to the proximal end PE.

[0096] The applicator 1 is generally produced preferably from plastic by means of additive manufacturing and is designed overall as a single component.

[0097] Example of the Second Embodiment

[0098] Figures 4 to 7 An example of a second embodiment of the applicator 1 is shown, in which Figure 4 The longitudinal axis L of the applicator is drawn in. Here, the spoon-shaped applicator 1 comprises a handle 3 and an applicator mechanism 2 connected to the handle. Here, the applicator mechanism 2 has a proximal end PE (end facing the handle) and a distal end DE (end facing away from the handle).

[0099] Here, the applicator mechanism 2 preferably comprises two curved surface segments 9, which are placed one above the other. Here, the surface segments 9 preferably have complementary perforations 12. In the region of the distal end DE, preferably no perforations are provided, so that a pocket 8 is formed here. A tab is formed by the perforation 12 of the surface segment 9, which serves as a leaf spring-like elastic support 11 for the pocket.

[0100] The applicator 1 is generally produced preferably from plastic by means of additive manufacturing and is designed overall as a single component.

[0101] Example of the third embodiment

[0102] Figures 8 to 11 An example of a third embodiment of the applicator 1 is shown, in which Figure 8 The longitudinal axis L of the applicator is drawn in. Here, the applicator 1 in the form of a flat applicator comprises a handle 3 and an applicator mechanism 2 connected to the handle. Here, the applicator mechanism 2 has a proximal end PE (end facing the handle) and a distal end DE (end facing away from the handle) and is configured in a triangular cross-sectional shape.

[0103] Here, the applicator means 2 comprises a plurality of structural layers 13 arranged one above the other. These structural layers comprise edge bars 16 arranged in a triangular shape. Within these edge bars 16, slim bars 17 form a bar structure 18, which has various perforations 14 serving as through-openings. At the triangular tip of the applicator means 2, a crossbar 15 connects the plurality of structural layers 13 to one another.

[0104] The rod structure 18 is preferably designed such that a triangle is formed within the edge rods 16 , which is formed by thin rods 17 , which are connected to the edge rods 16 via further thin rods 17 .

[0105] The applicator 1 is generally produced preferably from plastic by means of additive manufacturing and is designed overall as a single component.

[0106] Example of the fourth embodiment

[0107] Figures 12 to 15 An example of a fourth embodiment of the applicator 1 is shown, in which Fig.12 The longitudinal axis L of the applicator is drawn in. Here, the applicator 1 comprises a handle 3 and an applicator mechanism 2 connected to the handle. Here, the applicator mechanism 2 has a proximal end PE (end facing the handle) and a distal end DE (end facing away from the handle).

[0108] The applicator mechanism 2 comprises a preferably centrally located rod 19 which is preferably arranged coaxially with the handle 3 and is directly connected to the handle 3. The rod 19 carries a plurality of separate rings 20 which are arranged along the longitudinal axis of the rod 19 and engage around the rod 19. The rings 20 are preferably arranged on the rod 19 in such a way that they each project perpendicularly relative to the longitudinal axis L with a respectively larger ring segment 21 and a smaller ring segment 22.

[0109] It is also preferred that the ring 20 oscillates alternately about a center line M extending radially from the rod 19, preferably by up to plus or minus 25°, more preferably by up to plus or minus 15°. Fig.15 It is generally preferred that a ring 20 with a positive adjustment angle relative to the center line M is followed by a ring 20 with a negative adjustment angle, which in turn is followed by a ring 20 without an adjustment angle, wherein the arrangement preferably extends in this way substantially over the entire rod 19.

[0110] The applicator 1 is generally produced preferably from plastic by means of additive manufacturing and is designed overall as a single component.

[0111] Example of the fifth embodiment

[0112] Figures 16 to 19 An example of a fifth embodiment of the applicator 1 is shown, in which Fig.16 The longitudinal axis L of the applicator is drawn in. Here, the applicator 1 comprises a handle 3 with a disk 5 and an applicator member 2 connected to the disk 5. Here, the applicator member 2 has a proximal end PE (end facing the handle) and a distal end DE (end facing away from the handle).

[0113] Here, the applicator mechanism 2 comprises a plurality of partitions 24, from which a housing 23 is formed by arranging the partitions 24 at an angle relative to one another. The partitions 23 preferably consist of two main ribs 26, which extend substantially along the longitudinal axis L. The main ribs 26 are preferably connected to one another by transverse ribs 27, wherein the transverse ribs 27 preferably run in a zigzag shape. Thus, the aforementioned screen structure with a plurality of fine clear openings 25 is produced. The housing 23 formed in this way preferably has a boat shape with a more pointed bow and a correspondingly blunter stern.

[0114] This imaginary housing 23 has a housing opening 29, which is preferably partially closed by means of at least one additional partition 28. Here, the additional partition 28 is preferably also composed of main ribs 30, which are connected to each other by transverse ribs 31. However, these transverse ribs 31 are preferably arranged in a straight line instead of a zigzag shape. Therefore, a screen structure with openings is also produced in this additional partition 28.

[0115] The applicator 1 is generally produced preferably from plastic by means of additive manufacturing and is designed overall as a single component.

[0116] Example of the Sixth Embodiment

[0117] Figure 20 to Figure 21 An example of a sixth embodiment of the applicator 1 is shown, in which Fig. 20 The longitudinal axis L of the applicator is drawn in. Here, the applicator 1 comprises a handle 3 with a disk 5 and an applicator member 2 connected to the disk 5. Here, the applicator member 2 has a proximal end PE (end facing the handle) and a distal end DE (end facing away from the handle).

[0118] Here, the applicator member 2 comprises a wall 32 formed in a drop shape, thereby creating a hollow body with a smooth surface. Here, the wall 32 is pierced by a plurality of holes 33 over its entire circumference. The tip of the applicator member 2 preferably forms a conical area without holes at its distal end DE.

[0119] The applicator 1 is generally produced preferably from plastic by means of additive manufacturing and is designed overall as a single component.

[0120] Reference numerals list

[0121] 1 Applicator

[0122] 2 Applicator Mechanism

[0123] 3 handles

[0124] 4 sticks

[0125] 5 plates

[0126] 6 Basket

[0127] 7 Gap (V-shaped)

[0128] 8 concave pockets

[0129] 9 facial segments

[0130] 10 Unassigned

[0131] 11 Support

[0132] 12 facial segment piercings

[0133] 13Structural layer

[0134] 14 Perforations / through openings in structural layers

[0135] 15 crossbar

[0136] 16 Edge Rods

[0137] 17 Slimming Stick

[0138] 18 rod structure

[0139] 19 strokes

[0140] 20 rings

[0141] 21 Larger Ring Segments

[0142] 22 Smaller ring segments

[0143] 23 Shell

[0144] 24 partitions (forming a sieve structure)

[0145] 25 Opening

[0146] 26 Main rib

[0147] 27 transverse ribs

[0148] 28 Additional Partitions

[0149] 29 Shell opening

[0150] 30 Main ribs with additional partitions

[0151] 31 Transverse ribs for additional partitions

[0152] 33 holes

[0153] 34 cone area

[0154] L longitudinal axis

[0155] DE Remote

[0156] PE proximal

[0157] M Centerline

Claims

1. An applicator (1) for applying pasty or flowable substances using an applicator member (2), the applicator (1) essentially consisting of a plurality of rods (4), which are joined together, preferably fused together in one piece, at a proximal end (PE) of the applicator member (2) and extend from there away from one another to a distal end (DE) of the applicator member (2), at which the rods (4) are joined together again, preferably fused together in one piece, wherein each rod (4) has a spiral course between the proximal end (PE) and the distal end (DE), It is characterized in that The rod (4) has no outwardly protruding bristles or projections.

2. Applicator (1) according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The rod (4) forms a basket (6) on the inside at the distal end (DE) in which a substance can be stored, at least when the applicator member (2) is held with the distal end (DE) pointing vertically downwards.

3. Applicator (1) according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The rod (4) terminates at the proximal end (PE) in a disc (5) which projects radially outwards all around to act as a droplet collector which reduces the tendency of material to flow along a possibly connected handle (3).

4. Applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The rod (4) has a substantially circular cross section completely or over a substantial part of its length.

5. Applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The rods (4) directly adjacent to each other at the distal end form a gradually narrowing V-shaped gap (7) in the vicinity immediately before they are joined, and the V-shaped gap (7) is locally narrowed so that as long as the applicator mechanism (2) is not deformed, the substance stored on the inner side of the applicator mechanism (2) cannot pass through the gap (7).

6. An applicator (1), preferably but not exclusively, according to any one of claims 1 to 5, for applying a pasty or flowable substance using an applicator mechanism (2), It is characterized in that The structure forming the applicator mechanism (2) consists of a flat, preferably thin-walled and therefore deformable, preferably arched face segment (9), which has a perforation (12) and forms a pocket (8) in the region of the distal end (DE) in which a substance can be stored.

7. Applicator (1) for applying pasty or flowable substances according to claim 6, It is characterized in that The structure forming the applicator mechanism (2) forms a basket (6) or a pocket (8) on the inside at the distal end (DE) of the applicator mechanism (2), in which a substance can be stored, at least when the applicator mechanism (2) is held with the distal end (DE) pointing vertically downward.

8. Applicator (1) for applying pasty or flowable substances according to claim 6 or 7, It is characterized in that The pocket (8) is movably suspended at the proximal end (PE) of the applicator mechanism (2) on a leaf spring-like elastic support (11), the elastic support (11) preferably being coupled at the proximal end (PE) of the applicator mechanism (2).

9. Applicator (1) for applying pasty or flowable substances according to any one of claims 6, 7 or 8, It is characterized in that The applicator member (2) has a spoon-shaped design.

10. An applicator (1) for applying a pasty or flowable substance, preferably but not exclusively according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The applicator (1) is a flat applicator consisting of more than two structural layers (13) arranged essentially parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other, wherein each structural layer (13) has perforations (14) which allow the passage of substances under certain circumstances.

11. Applicator (1) for applying pasty or flowable substances according to claim 10, It is characterized in that Directly adjacent structural layers (13) are spaced very close to one another, so that the structural layers (13) retain substances between the structural layers (13) due to capillary action.

12. Applicator (1) for applying pasty or flowable substances according to claim 10 or 11, It is characterized in that The applicator member (2) tapers triangularly from its proximal end (PE) to its distal end (DE), wherein a plurality of structural layers (13) are connected to one another in the region of the triangle tip, preferably via a common crossbar (15).

13. Applicator (1) for applying pasty or flowable substances according to claim 10, 11 or 12, It is characterized in that Each structural layer (13) is composed of edge rods (16) that form the edge of the structural layer (13) on the outside, and the edge rods (16) enclose a free space between them, which is partially filled by a rod structure, which is preferably composed of thinner thin rods (17), so that the structural layer (13) has a plurality of through-openings in the form of perforations (14), but the through-openings are preferably small enough to at least substantially prevent substances from passing through the through-openings (14) as long as the structural layer (13) is not subjected to deformation imposed from the outside.

14. An applicator (1) for applying a pasty or flowable substance, preferably but not exclusively according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The applicator mechanism (2) consists of a rod (19) carrying a plurality of non-circular rings (20), wherein the rings (20) are fixed to the rod (19) so that each ring (20) protrudes from the rod (19) on one side of the rod (19) with a smaller ring segment (22) and on the other side of the rod (19) with a larger ring segment (21).

15. Applicator (1) for applying pasty or flowable substances according to claim 14, It is characterized in that The ring (20) is elliptical, oval, plum-shaped or preferably almond-shaped.

16. Applicator (1) for applying pasty or flowable substances according to claim 14 or 15, It is characterized in that The orientation of the ring (20) oscillates about a center line (M) extending generally radially as viewed from the rod (19), preferably by up to plus or minus 25°, more preferably by up to plus or minus 15°.

17. Applicator (1) for applying pasty or flowable substances according to claim 16, It is characterized in that The ring (20) oscillates alternately, preferably in the following manner: within a repeating pattern, a ring (20) symmetrical about the center line (M) is followed by a ring (20) tilted to one side relative to the center line (M), and the ring (20) tilted to one side relative to the center line (M) is followed by a ring (20) tilted to the other side of the center line (M), and preferably the ring (20) tilted to the other side of the center line (M) is again followed by a ring (20) tilted symmetrically about the center line (M).

18. Applicator (1) for applying pasty or flowable substances according to any one of claims 14 to 17, It is characterized in that The cross-sectional diameter of the structure forming the ring (20) decreases as the distance of the ring (20) from the rod (19) supporting it increases and ideally has its minimum value in the apex of the ring (20).

19. An applicator (1) for applying a pasty or flowable substance, preferably but not exclusively according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The applicator mechanism (2) consists of a plurality of partitions (24) forming a sieve structure, which together form a housing (23) capable of retaining a substance even under the influence of gravity when the applicator (1) is held in a corresponding twisted position, wherein the sieve structure has such fine clear openings (25) that the substance cannot pass through the fine clear openings (25) to the outside completely or substantially due to its surface tension.

20. Applicator (1) for applying pasty or flowable substances according to claim 19, It is characterized in that Each subarea (24) consists of two main ribs (26) extending substantially along the longitudinal axis, which are preferably connected to one another in a zigzag manner by transverse ribs (27), wherein two directly adjacent subareas (24) preferably share a common main rib (26).

21. Applicator (1) for applying pasty or flowable substances according to claim 19 or 20, It is characterized in that The housing (23) consists of at least three subareas (24) arranged at an angle to one another.

22. Applicator (1) for applying pasty or flowable substances according to any one of claims 19 to 21, It is characterized in that The housing (23) has an overall boat shape, preferably with a more pointed bow and a correspondingly blunter stern.

23. Applicator (1) for applying pasty or flowable substances according to any one of claims 19 to 22, It is characterized in that The applicator mechanism (2) has at least one additional partition (28) which at least partially closes an opening (29) of the housing (23).

24. Applicator (1) for applying pasty or flowable substances according to claim 23, It is characterized in that The at least one additional partition (28) consists of at least two main ribs (30) extending along the longitudinal axis, the main ribs (30) preferably being connected to each other in a ladder-like manner by straight transverse ribs (31), wherein ideally, substances can pass through the ribs of the additional partition (28) more easily than through the ribs of the partition (24) forming the outer shell (23).

25. An applicator (1) for applying a pasty or flowable substance, preferably but not exclusively according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The applicator member (2) is a hollow body with a drop-shaped, almond-shaped, plum-shaped or zeppelin-shaped shape, with a smooth outer surface, whose wall (32) has a plurality of preferably circular or polygonal holes (33) and which is weakened to such an extent that it deforms more than slightly under the action of the forces that occur as required during application.

26. Applicator (1) for applying pasty or flowable substances according to claim 25, It is characterized in that The clear cross section of the hole (33) is so small that the material stored inside the applicator mechanism (2) leaves the applicator (1) only with a considerable time delay, as long as the applicator (1) is not deformed under the influence of the forces occurring during application.

27. Applicator (1) for applying pasty or flowable substances according to claim 25 or 26, It is characterized in that The applicator member (2) has at its distal end (DE) a tapered region (34) which is free of perforations and / or holes (33).

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