Applicator with microelements and method to manufacture an applicator with microelements

Abstract

The invention concerns an Applicator for the application of a decorative, a caring and / or a pharmaceutical substance to the at least substantially hairless skin, with a substantially rigid applicator body, the application surface of which carries a flock which gives it a softer tactile impression compared to the application surface in the unflocked state, characterised in that the flocking is formed by an array of elastically deformable microelements which are arranged substantially in a defined manner and extend substantially in a defined manner away from the application surface, which are preferably distant from each other, and which protrude outwards from the application surface by a maximum amount of about 10 mm, preferably about 5 mm, more preferably about 2.5 mm and in that the microelements are arranged in straight rows which are parallel to the longitudinal axis of the applicator, and at least two adjacent rows have a different number of microelements.

Description

[0001] The invention concerns an applicator for the application of a decorative, a caring and / or a pharmaceutical substance to the at least substantially hairless skin. The invention further relates to a method to manufacture an applicator for the application of a decorative, a caring and / or a pharmaceutical substance to the at least substantially hairless skin.

[0002] State of the art applicators for the application of a decorative, a caring and / or a pharmaceutical substance to the at least substantially hairless skin have a rigid applicator body, which is flocked on the application surface. The flocked application surface is able to soak-up the substance from a reservoir, store the substance until it is applied and distribute the substance on the skin of the user.

[0003] State of the art applicators, however, are complicated and difficult to manufacture. In a first step the rigid applicator body is molded. Optionally after the first step there can be a pre-treatment to enhance the surface connection between a glue and the rigid applicator body, preferably made of plastic, in particular using a fluorine gas treatment before applying a glue in a second step. In a second step the molded applicator body is dipped into glue. In a third step the flock is scattered on the molded applicator with glue. For this step, usually a statically enriched field is necessary. In a fourth step the flocked applicator is heated up in an oven in order to dry the glue.

[0004] In addition in state of the art applicators the flock size, in particular cut filaments that are made of PBT (Polybutylenterephthalat) or PA (Polyamide), is limited to about 22 dtex. Bigger fibers are not anchored properly in the glue so that bigger fibers cannot be attached to the applicator. Finally in the state of the art applicators it can happen that during the use, in particular during the application, there is a risk of loosing single fibers from the flock. Over the time this might reduce the storing capacity and the distribution functionality of the applicator.

[0005] It is therefore the task of the invention to create an applicator that is easy to manufacture and that is able to soak-up, store and distribute the substance over a, in particular long, usage period. It is therefore the task of the invention to create a method to manufacture an applicator that is easy to manufacture and that is able to soak-up, store and distribute the substance over a, in particular long, usage period.

[0006] This task is solved with respect to the applicator with an applicator having the features of claim 1.

[0007] According to the invention the applicator, in particular an applicator to applicate lipgloss, concealer, foundcealer, or the such, is usable for the application of a decorative, a caring and / or a pharmaceutical substance, in particular lipgloss, concealer, foundcealer, or the such, to the at least substantially hairless skin, in particular to lips. Preferably the applicator comprises a, in particular substantially, rigid applicator body. The application surface of the applicator body preferably carries a flock which gives it a softer tactile impression compared to the application surface in the unflocked state. The flocking is preferably formed by an array of elastically deformable microelements. The microelements are preferably arranged, in particular substantially, in a defined manner. The microelements preferably extend, in particular substantially, in a defined manner away from the application surface. The microelements are preferably distant from each other. The microelements preferably protrude outwards from the application surface by a maximum amount of about 10 mm, preferably about 5 mm, more preferably about 2.5 mm, in particular of about 2.25 mm, in particular of about 2 mm, in particular of about 1.75 mm. Preferably the microelements are protrude outwards from the application surface by a minimum amount of about about 0,5 mm, preferably about 1,0 mm, preferably about 1.5 mm, preferably of about 1.75 mm, preferably of about 2 mm.

[0008] Such an applicator is easy to manufacture. In addition such an applicator can comprise bigger fibers, in particular fibers that are bigger than about 22 dtex, without a high risk of loosing the fibers during application. Compared to an applicator known from the state of the art, an applicator according to the invention is aiming a sustainable, performing and clean substitution of the conventional flock.

[0009] Preferably the microelements are in a straight shape. More preferably the microelements are in a non-straight shape. It can be of advantage that the microelements are of a complex geometry. A complex geometry can be for example that the cross section of the microelement is of a complex shape, i.e. non-round, preferably a triangle, a rectangle, a pentagon, a hexagon or multi-corner, or elliptic, or the such.

[0010] Another complex geometry can be for example that that the longitudinal axis of the microelement is curved. A curved shape can provide more grip on the skin.

[0011] Another complex geometry can be for example that the longitudinal axis of the microelement has angles, in particular is composed of at least two straight sections, wherein the two straight sections are connected under an angle. In other words the microelements can be composed of mutli-single-elements that are connected with each other.

[0012] Another complex geometry can be for example that the longitudinal axis has a helix shape, or the such. Such a shape can store more substance, in particular more formula, and in addition can have more softness than conventional shapes.

[0013] Another complex geometry can be for example that the microelements are in the shape of bubbles, or that on sections of the microelements bubbles are added. Such an extraordinary shapes can provide a different effect and sense on the skin, for example it can massage the skin of the user.

[0014] In the context of this disclosure microelements and microstructure can, but must not, have the same meaning.

[0015] Preferably the microelements are a one-piece integral part of the applicator body. In such an embodiment the size, in particular length and / or diameter of the microelements, can be chosen freely as both, microelements and rigid applicator body, are made of the same material and in particular in the same process step. The connection, in particular the chemical and / or mechanical connection, of the applicator body and the microelements can be better compared to the standard applicator known from the state of the art, where the glue acts as anchor layer. With an applicator of this invention, preferably creams could come with a bigger microstructure to provide a massage effect. Preferably tinted low viscous formulas, in particular substance, could have helix shapes element in order to store more liquid.

[0016] Preferably at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements are multi-leg elements which have at least two legs separated from one another and by which they are connected to the applicator body and which merge with one another at a distance from the applicator body. Preferably the at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements are multi-leg elements which have at least two legs by which they are connected to the applicator body, wherein the at least two legs merge with one another at the applicator body. Ideally the at least two legs are separated from one another at a distance from the applicator body.

[0017] Preferably at least some, ideally the predominant part of the multi-leg elements and / or microelements each have at least two, preferably three feet which define a cavity between them. Preferably leg and feet mean the same object. With such an arrangement of the microelements a relatively stiff microelement can be achieved, while at the same time the microelement is bendable, in particular when the user is applying substance to her lips. In particular the distance provides a substance storage capacity.

[0018] Preferably at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements have the shape of a spring, preferably a coil spring, wherein one end of the spring is connected to the applicator body, and the other end of the spring is preferably freestanding. Preferably at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements in the shape of a spring, at least partly, surround a cavity. The cavity is preferably able to store some cosmetic mass. The spring is preferably bendable and ideally by bending release some of the stored cosmetic mass. Preferably the spring constant of all of the microelements is about the same. It can be preferable in a further embodiment that the spring constant of at least some of the microelements is different to the spring constant of at least some other of the microelements.

[0019] Preferably the at least eome, ideally the predominant part of the microelements and / or multi-leg elements are more than only insignificantly elastically deformable and, after relief, at least substantially return to their former, undeflected position. This construction helps to release the substance when it is applied by bending the microelements, but at the same time this construction helps to store substance in the cavity that is provided in the former, undeflected position.

[0020] Preferably at least some, ideally the predominant part of two neighboring microelements are distant from each other with a distance of between about 0,01 mm and about 3 mm, preferably between about 0,025 mm and about 2 mm, preferably between about 0,05 mm and about 1 mm, preferably between about 0,67 mm and about 0,73 mm, wherein the distance is ideally measure from the center of one microelement to the center of the neighboring microelement, preferably measured at the applicator body.

[0021] Preferably the flocking formed by the array of elastically deformable microelements has a density of about 1 microelement per mm 2< to about 100 microelements per mm 2< , more preferably about 1 microelement per mm 2< to about 50 microelements per mm 2<

[0022] Preferably at least some, ideally the predominant part of microelements and / or the multi-leg elements have legs with an average diameter between about 40 µm and about 900 µm, preferably between about 60 µm and about 700 µm, more preferably between about 100 µm and about 500 µm, preferably between about 50 µm and about 400 µm. Such a diameter is a good trade-off between stiffness and stability and flexibility of the microelements.

[0023] Preferably at least some, ideally the predominant part of the micro elements have legs with an average diameter of about 400 µm, and wherein the flocking formed by the array of elastically deformable microelements has a density of about 1 microelement per mm 2< .

[0024] Preferably at least some, ideally the predominant part of the micro elements have legs with an average diameter of about 50 µm, and wherein the flocking formed by the array of elastically deformable microelements has a density of about 100 microelements per mm 2< .

[0025] This task is further solved with respect to the method to manufacture an applicator with a method having the features of claim 8 or claim 9.

[0026] According to the invention the method to manufacture an applicator is to produce the applicator, at least partially, in particular completely, by additive manufacturing, in particular a 3D printing process. Preferably after the additive manufacturing, in particular the 3D printing process, the applicator is post processed, in particular cleaned and / or cured.

[0027] According to the invention the method to manufacture an applicator is to produce the applicator, at least partially, in particular completely, by an injection molding process. The injection molding process, can be, compared to additive manufacturing, in particular a 3D printing method, faster and cheaper, however additive manufacturing, in particular a 3D printing method might be able to provide more complex geometries of the microelements compared to injection molding.

[0028] Such a method, both additive manufacturing, in particular 3D printing and / or injection molding, allows to decrease the manufacturing steps from 4 or 5 production steps necessary to produce a state of the art applicator to 1 or 2 production steps to produce an applicator according to this invention. In particular the microstructure is made out of the same material and in the same production process as the applicator body. In particular the applicator can be considered as a mono-material product. Preferably there is no need for additional flocking processes.

[0029] It goes without saying that the features mentioned above and the features to be explained below can be used not only in the combination indicated in each case, but also in other combinations or on their own, without leaving the scope of the present invention.

[0030] Advantageous examples of the invention are described below using the enclosed figures. Fig. 1shows an applicator in a perspective view, Fig. 2shows the applicator in a front view, Fig. 3shows a cutout of the applicator showing microelements in a front view, Fig. 4shows a cutout of the applicator showing microelements in a perspective view, Fig. 5shows the applicator in a front view, Fig. 6shows the applicator in a side view, Fig. 7shows the applicator in a perspective view, Fig. 8shows one of the microelements in a perspective view, Fig. 9shows one of the microelements in a bottom view, Fig. 10shows a second embodiment of the applicator in a front view, Fig. 11shows a cutout of the second embodiment of the applicator showing microelements in a front view, Fig. 12shows a cutout of the second embodiment of the applicator showing microelements in a perspective view, Fig. 13shows a third embodiment of the applicator in a front view, Fig. 14shows a cutout of the third embodiment of the applicator showing microelements in a front view, Fig. 15shows a cutout of the third embodiment of the applicator showing microelements in a perspective view, Fig. 16shows a fourth embodiment of the applicator in a front view, Fig. 17shows a fourth embodiment of the applicator in a side view, Fig. 18shows a fourth embodiment of the applicator in a perspective view, Fig. 19shows one of the microelements in a fourth embodiment of the applicator in a perspective view, Fig. 20shows one of the microelements in a fourth embodiment of the applicator in a bottom view, Fig. 21shows a fifth embodiment of the applicator in a front view, Fig. 22shows a fifth embodiment of the applicator in a side view, Fig. 23shows a fifth embodiment of the applicator in a perspective view, Fig. 24shows one of the microelements in a fifth embodiment of the applicator in a perspective view, Fig. 25shows one of the microelements in a fifth embodiment of the applicator in a bottom view, Fig. 26shows a sixth embodiment of the applicator in a front view, Fig. 27shows a sixth embodiment of the applicator in a side view, Fig. 28shows a sixth embodiment of the applicator in a perspective view, Fig. 29shows one of the microelements in a sixth embodiment of the applicator in a perspective view, Fig. 30shows one of the microelements in a sixth embodiment of the applicator in a bottom view, Fig. 31shows a seventh embodiment of the applicator in a front view, Fig. 32shows a seventh embodiment of the applicator in a side view, Fig. 33shows a seventh embodiment of the applicator in a perspective view, Fig. 34shows one of the microelements in a seventh embodiment of the applicator in a perspective view, Fig. 35shows one of the microelements in a seventh embodiment of the applicator in a bottom view, Fig. 36shows a eigth embodiment of the applicator in a front view, Fig. 37shows a eigth embodiment of the applicator in a side view, Fig. 38shows a eigth embodiment of the applicator in a perspective view, Fig. 39shows one of the microelements in a eigth embodiment of the applicator in a perspective view, Fig. 40shows one of the microelements in a eigth embodiment of the applicator in a bottom view Fig. 41shows a ninth embodiment of the applicator in a front view, Fig. 42shows a ninth embodiment of the applicator in a side view, Fig. 43shows a ninth embodiment of the applicator in a perspective view, Fig. 44shows one of the microelements in a ninth embodiment of the applicator in a perspective view, Fig. 45shows one of the microelements in a ninth embodiment of the applicator in a bottom view. Fig. 1 to 9 show the applicator 1 in a first embodiment. The applicator 1 is applicable for the application of a decorative, a caring and / or a pharmaceutical substance, for instance lipgloss or the such, to the at least substantially hairless skin. The hairless skin can be for example lips of a user. The hairless skin and lips are not shown in the figures. The applicator 1 comprises a substantially rigid applicator body 2. The applicator body 2 can comprise a device 3 for attaching a handle. The applicator body 2 can, in a further embodiment of the invention, comprise a handle. Preferably the applicator body 2 and the handle are one-piece shaped.

[0031] The applicator 1 comprises an application surface 4. The application surface 4 carries a flock which gives it a softer tactile impression compared to the application surface in the unflocked state. The flocking is formed by an array of elastically deformable microelements 5. The microelements 5 are arranged substantially in a defined manner and extend substantially in a defined manner away from the application surface 4. The microelements 5 define a pattern that can be well seen in Fig. 2, 3 and 5. The applicator 1 of the first embodiment comprises microelements 5, wherein the microelements 5 are multi-leg elements, in particular three-leg 6 elements as can be seen in Fig. 3, 8 and 9. The three legs 6 are separated from one another and connected to the applicator body 2. The three legs 6 merge with one another at a distance from the applicator body 2. When virtually connecting the three legs 6 at the applicator body 2, then a virtual triangle 7 (Fig. 3 and 9) is created. The virtual triangle 7 is preferably a triangle, wherein all three sides are of equal length. As can be seen in Fig. 2, 3 and 5, all virtual triangles 7 of all microelements 5 are preferably aligned that way that the corresponding sides of the virtual triangles 7 of parallel microelements 5 are parallel to each other. In particular all bottom sides of all virtual triangles 7 are parallel to each other, in particular all left sides of all virtual triangles 7 are parallel to each other, in particular all right sides of all virtual triangles 7 are parallel to each other. All virtual triangles 7 in the first embodiment of the applicator 1 have a bottom side that is facing to the handle 3 of the applicator.

[0032] The microelements 5 of the applicator are preferably distant from each other. The distance of two neighbouring microelements 5 is preferably at least 0,5, preferably 1, more preferably 2 times the length of the base side of a virtual triangle 7. The distance of two neighbouring microelements 5 is preferably at most 4, preferably 3, more preferably 2.5 times the length of the base side of a virtual triangle 7.

[0033] The microelements 5 protrude outwards from the application surface 4 by a maximum amount of about 10 mm, preferably about 5 mm, more preferably about 2.5 mm, more preferably 2 mm. The microelements 5 protrude outwards from the application surface 4 by a minimum amount of about 0.5 mm, preferably about 1.0 mm, preferably about 1.5 mm, preferably 1.8 mm.

[0034] The microelements 5 are preferably a one-piece integral part of the applicator body 2.

[0035] The least three feet 6 define a cavity 8 between them, which can be well seen in Fig. 4. The cavity 8 is usable for storing substance, i.e. lipgloss or the such. The multi-leg elements, i.e. the three-leg microelements 5, are more than only insignificantly elastically deformable and, after relief, at least substantially return to their former, undeflected position. This makes the stored mass to be released from the cavity 8. In addition this creates a massaging feeling to the user. In particular the microelements 5, in particular the legs 6 of the microelements 5, can be deformed that much that in the maximum position, a part, preferably over about 50 % of the length of at least one of the, in particular all of the, legs 6, touches the application surface 4.

[0036] The multi-leg elements 5 have legs 6 with an average diameter between about 40 µm and about 900 µm, preferably between about 100 µm and about 700 µm, more preferably between about 200 µm and about 400 µm, most preferably between about 50 µm and about 400 µm. Preferably the legs 6 have a circled cross -section. It can be preferably that the cross section is elliptic, triangles, quadratic, or with multi-corners. Over the length of the leg 6 the cross section of the leg can vary, in particular in size and / or shape. If the cross section is non-round, then "average diameter" is meant to be the hydraulic diameter.

[0037] Preferably at least some, ideally the predominant part of two neighboring microelements 5 are distant from each other with a distance d of between about 0,01 mm and about 3 mm, preferably between about 0,025 mm and about 2 mm, preferably between about 0,05 mm and about 1 mm, preferably between about 0,67 mm and about 0,73 mm. The distance d is ideally measured from the center of one microelement 5 to the center of the neighboring microelement 5, preferably measured at the applicator body, as can be seen in Fig. 3.

[0038] The flocking formed by the array of elastically deformable microelements 5 preferably has a density of about 1 microelement 5 per mm 2< to about 100 microelements 5 per mm 2< , more preferably about 1 microelement 5 per mm 2< to about 50 microelements 5 per mm 2< .

[0039] At least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements 5 have legs 6 with an average diameter D of about 400 µm, as can be seen in Fig. 9. The flocking formed by the array of elastically deformable microelements 5 has a density of about 1 microelement 5 per mm 2< .

[0040] In another embodiment at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements 5 have legs with an average diameter D of about 50 µm, and wherein the flocking formed by the array of elastically deformable microelements has a density of about 100 microelements per mm 2< . Preferably the average diameter D of the microelements is in between about 50 µm and 400 µm, and the flocking has a density in between about 1 microelement 5 per mm 2< and about 100 microelements pre mm 2< .

[0041] Fig. 10 to 12 show the applicator 1' in a second embodiment. Same reference signs show the same parts, while with same it is meant that for the second embodiment apostrophs ' are used. Theferore all of the above said for the first embodiment is applicable for the second embodiment with the following major difference, described below.

[0042] Compared to the first embodiment (Fig. 1 to 9) the microelements 5' of the second embodiment (Fig. 10 to 12) comprise legs 6' that are wider, in particular in diameter D and / or in height. The bigger height results in a bigger cavity 8', so that more substance is storeable. The bigger diameter D results in a more stiff behavior of the microelements 5' during bending, so that a better massage effect can be made.

[0043] Having a look on the virtual triangles 7'of the microelements 5', the base side of virtual triangle 7' of in particular all microelements 5' are parallel. However the base side of the virtual triangle 7'of one microelement 5' can face to the handle 3', while the base side of another virtual triangle 7' of another microelement 5' can face away from the handle 3'. In particular for neighboring microelements 5', the virtual triangles 7'are turned, i.e. one base side of the virtual triangle 7' faces to the handle 3', the base side of the neighboring virtual triangle 7' faces away from the handle 3'.

[0044] Fig. 13 to 15 show the applicator 1'' in a third embodiment. Same reference signs show the same parts, while with same it is meant that for the third embodiment two apostrophs '' are used. Theferore all of the above said for the first, and partially also for the second, embodiment is applicable for the third embodiment with the following major difference, described below.

[0045] Compared to the first embodiment (Fig. 1 to 9) the microelements 5" of the third embodiment (Fig. 10 to 12) comprise four legs 6''. The four legs 6'' build a virtual square, in particular all sides of the virtual square have the same length. Comparatively, compared to the first and also second embodiment, bigger cavities 8'' can be achieved, so that more substance is storeable. The four legs 6'' result in a more stiff behavior of the microelements 5'' during bending, so that a better massage effect can be made.

[0046] Having a look on the virtual squares 7" of the microelements 5", one corner of the virtual square 7'' in particular of all microelements 5'' face to the handle 3''. It can also be seen that all corresponding sides of the virtual squares 7'' are parallel to each other for all microelements 5", i.e. the left side of one virtual square 7'' of one microelement 5 " is parallel to the left side of another virtual square 7'' of another microelement 5 ", i.e. the right side of one virtual square 7'' of one microelement 5 '' is parallel to the right side of another virtual square 7" of another microelement 5 ", i.e. the top side of one virtual square 7'' of one microelement 5 '' is parallel to the top side of another virtual square 7'' of another microelement 5 ", i.e. the bottom side of one virtual square 7'' of one microelement 5 '' is parallel to the bottom side of another virtual square 7'' of another microelement 5 ".

[0047] Fig. 16 to 20 show the applicator 1"' in a fourth embodiment. Same reference signs show the same parts, while with same it is meant that for the third embodiment three apostrophs ''' are used. Theferore all of the above said for the first embodiment, and partially also all of the other previously described embodiments, is applicable for the fourth embodiment with the following major difference, described below.

[0048] Compared to the first embodiment (Fig. 1 to 9) the microelements 5''' of the fourth embodiment (Fig. 16 to 20) comprise two legs 6'''. The two legs 6''' build a virtual straight line. Comparatively, compared to the previous embodiments one to three, smaller cavities 8''' can be achieved, so that less substance is storable. This can be an advantage depending on the cosmetic mass. The two legs 6''' result in a less stiff behavior of the microelements 5'' during bending, so that the mass can be easier released, compared to the previous embodiments. Advantagely a good massage effect could still be achieved.

[0049] Having a look on the virtual straight lines of the microelements 5" (i.e. the line connecting the two legs 6''' that are attached to the application surface), all virtual straight lines are parallel to each other for all microelements 5". In particular the virtual straight lines are parallel in a front view, as can be seen in Fig. 16. The virtual straight lines are parallel to a virtual axis 9'''. The virtual axis 9''' is preferably the center of mass line of the applicator 1'''.

[0050] The microelements 5''' preferably have the shape of a horseshoe, as can be seen in Fig. 19, 20.

[0051] Fig. 21 to 25 show the applicator 1 IV< in a fifth embodiment. Same reference signs show the same parts, while with same it is meant that for the fifth embodiment the apostrophs IV< (as Roman number IV) are used. Theferore all of the above said for the first embodiment, and partially also all of the other previously described embodiments, is applicable for the fifth embodiment with the following major difference, described below.

[0052] Compared to the first embodiment (Fig. 1 to 9) the microelements 5 IV< of the fifth embodiment (Fig. 21 to 25) comprise one leg 6 IV< . The microelements 5 IV< have the shape of a spring, preferably a coil spring, wherein one end of the spring is connected to the applicator body, and the other end of the spring is preferably freestanding. The spring surrounds the cavity 8 IV< so that mass can be stored. The spring can be adjusted such that a good mass storage capacity, a good mass release and a good massaging effect can be achieved. Such an adjustment can be done for example by adjusting the height of the spring and / or the diameter of the leg 5 IV< of the spring. The adjustment can be achieved by the variation of the spring constant.

[0053] It can be preferably that the outer diameter of the spring is smaller on the bottom, i.e. on the part of the spring attached to the application surface 4 IV< , than on the top, i.e. on the part of the spring that is outstanding from the application surface 4 IV< .

[0054] Fig. 26 to 30 show the applicator 1 V< in a sixth embodiment. Same reference signs show the same parts, while with same it is meant that for the sixths embodiment the apostrophs V< (as Roman number V) are used. Theferore all of the above said for the first embodiment, and partially also all of the other previously described embodiments, is applicable for the sixths embodiment with the following major difference, described below.

[0055] Compared to the previous embodiments, in particular the preivous four embodiments (Fig. 1 to 20), the microelements 5 V< are configured upside down, i.e. at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements 5 V< are multi-leg elements which have at least two legs 6 V< by which they are connected to the applicator body, wherein the at least two legs 6 V< merge with one another at the applicator body, and ideally the at least two legs 6 V< are separated from one another at a distance from the applicator body.

[0056] The two legs 6 V< build a virtual straight line. Comparatively, compared to the previous embodiments cavities 8 V< can be achieved, wherein the cavities 8 V< open upwards. In this embodiment the stored mass, sotred in the cavity 8 V< , can be released relatively easily. At the same time a good massage effect can be achieved. The two legs 6 V< result in a stiff behavior of the microelements 5 V< during bending, so that the mass can be easier released, compared to the previous embodiments.

[0057] The diameter D of the legs 6 V< is bigger on the bottom than on the topof the microelement 5 V< . With bottom it is meant the side of the microelement 5 V< that is attached to the applicator body, wherein the top if the microelement 5 V< is free standing side of the leg 6 V< .

[0058] Fig. 31 to 35 show the applicator 1 VI< in a seventh embodiment. Same reference signs show the same parts, while with same it is meant that for the sevenths embodiment the apostrophs VI< (as Roman number VI) are used. Theferore all of the above said for the first embodiment, and partially also all of the other previously described embodiments, is applicable for the seventh embodiment with the following major difference, described below.

[0059] Compared to the sixth embodiment (Fig. 26 to 30) the microelements 5 VI< of the sevenths embodiment (Fig. 31 to 35) comprise three legs 6 VI< . The three legs 6 VI< build a virtual triangle 7 VI< , in particular all sides of the virtual triangle 7 VI< have the same length. Comparatively, compared to the sixth embodiment, bigger cavities 8 VI< can be achieved, so that more substance is storeable. The three legs 6 VI< result in a more stiff behavior of the microelements 5 VI< during bending, so that a better massage effect can be made.

[0060] Having a look on the virtual triangles 7 VI< of the microelements 5 VI< , one corner of the virtual triangles 7 VI< in particular of all microelements 5 VI< face to the handle 3 VI< . It can also be seen that all corresponding sides of the virtual triangles 7 VI< are parallel to each other for all microelements 5 VI< , i.e. the left side of one virtual triangle 7 VI< of one microelement 5 VI< is parallel to the left side of another virtual triangle 7 VI< of another microelement 5 VI< , i.e. the right side of one virtual triangle 7 VI< of one microelement 5 VI< is parallel to the right side of another virtual triangle 7 VI< of another microelement 5 VI< , i.e. the top side of one virtual triangle 7 VI< of one microelement 5 VI< is parallel to the top side of another virtual triganle 7 VI< of another microelement 5 VI< .

[0061] Fig. 36 to 40 show the applicator 1 VII< in a eight embodiment. Same reference signs show the same parts, while with same it is meant that for the eights embodiment the apostrophs VII< (as Roman number VII) are used. Theferore all of the above said for the first embodiment, and partially also all of the other previously described embodiments, is applicable for the eight embodiment with the following major difference, described below.

[0062] Compared to the sixth and / or seventh embodiment (Fig. 26 to 35) the microelements 5 VII< of the eigth embodiment (Fig. 31 to 35) comprise three main legs 6 VII< and three sub legs 6 VII< . The main legs and the sub legs are in a straight line, in particular in a front view, compare Fig. 36 and 40. The main difference between the main and the sub legs 6 VII< is that the main legs 6 VII< are bigger and / or larger than the sub legs 6 VII< .

[0063] A main leg and a sub leg can also be called as one leg 6 VII< . In this case one microelement 5 VII< comprises three legs 6 VII< . The three legs 6 VII< build a virtual triangle 7 VII< , in particular all sides of the virtual triangle 7 VII< have the same length. Comparatively, compared to the sixth and / or sevenths embodiment, bigger cavities 8 VII< can be achieved, so that more substance is storeable. The three legs 6 VII< result in a more stiff behavior of the microelements 5 VII< during bending, so that a better massage effect can be made.

[0064] Having a look on the virtual triangles 7 VII< of the microelements 5 VII< , one corner of the virtual triangles 7 VII< in particular of all microelements 5 VII< face to the handle 3 VII< . It can also be seen that all corresponding sides of the virtual triangles 7 VII< are parallel to each other for all microelements 5 VII< , i.e. the left side of one virtual triangle 7 VII< of one microelement 5 VII< is parallel to the left side of another virtual triangle 7 VI< of another microelement 5 VII< , i.e. the right side of one virtual triangle 7 VII< of one microelement 5 VII< is parallel to the right side of another virtual triangle 7 VII< of another microelement 5 VII< , i.e. the top side of one virtual triangle 7 VII< of one microelement 5 VII< is parallel to the top side of another virtual triganle 7 VII< of another microelement 5 VII< .

[0065] Another difference of the eight embodiment compared to the previous embodiments, in particular compared to the sixth and seventh embodiment (Fig. 26 to 35) is the shape of the legs 6 VII< . The cross section of the legs 6 VII< of the eight embodiment (Fig. 36 to 40) is rectangular. The hydraulic diameter of the cross section of the leg 6 VII< decreases from bottom to top of the leg 6 VII< . The width of the leg 6 VII< is about constant over the height of the leg 6 VII< . The length of the leg 6 VII< decreases from bottom to top of the leg 6 VII< in particular so that the hydraulic diameter of the cross section of the leg 6 VII< decreases from bottom to top of the leg 6 VII< .

[0066] The overall shape of the microelement 5 VII< according to the eigth embodiment (Fig. 36 to 40) remindes to the shape of a fondue fork, in particular if a fondue fork with three fork tines, while in particular one tine is one leg 6 VII< .

[0067] The applicator 1, 1', 1'' is produced at least partially, in particular completely, by additive manufacturing, particularly a 3D printing process. The applicator 1 is produced at least partially, in particular completely, by an injection molding process. It can be useful that, in particular after the 3D-printing, the applicator 1, 1', 1'' is post-processed, in particular the applicator 1, 1', 1'' is cleaned and / or UV cured.

[0068] Preferably the used manufacturing method can depend on the complexity of the surface. In particular injection molding is preferred if there are no undercuts. In particular 3D printing method is preferred for a special shaped geometry with undercuts.

[0069] Fig. 41 to 45 show the applicator 1 VIII< in a ninth embodiment. Same reference signs show the same parts, while with same it is meant that for the ninth embodiment the apostrophs VIII< (as Roman number VIII) are used. Theferore all of the above said for the first embodiment, and partially also all of the other previously described embodiments, is applicable for the ninth embodiment with the following major difference, described below.

[0070] Compared to the previous embodiments (Fig. 1 to 40) the microelements 5 VIII< of the ninth embodiment (Fig. 41 to 45) comprise one leg 6 VIII< . Between two neighbouring legs 6 VIII< substance is storeable. The one leg 6 VIII< result in a more stiff behavior of the microelements 5 VIII< during bending, so that a better massage effect can be made.

[0071] The invention further relates to the following embodiments which are parts of the description.

[0072] Advantageous features and / or single features of different embodiments can be combined with each other in one embodiment. It is further possible to omit one or more features from a specific embodiment. The omitted one or more features are not necessary for the specific embodiment.

[0073] A preferred embodiment (in the following abbreviated as EB) and / or features of the invention are indicated as follows.

[0074] EB 1: Applicator for the application of a decorative, a caring and / or a pharmaceutical substance to the at least substantially hairless skin, with a substantially rigid applicator body, the application surface of which carries a flock which gives it a softer tactile impression compared to the application surface in the unflocked state, characterised in that the flocking is formed by an array of elastically deformable microelements which are arranged substantially in a defined manner and extend substantially in a defined manner away from the application surface, which are preferably distant from each other, and which protrude outwards from the application surface by a maximum amount of about 10 mm, preferably about 5 mm, more preferably about 2.5 mm.

[0075] Further preferred embodiments (in the following abbreviated as EBs) and / or features of the invention are indicated as follows.

[0076] EB 2: The Applicator according to EB 1, characterised in that the microelements protrude outwards from the application surface by a minimum amount of about 0.5 mm, preferably about 1,0 mm, preferably about 1.5 mm.

[0077] EB: 3 The applicator according to EB 1 or EB 2, characterised in that the microelements are a one-piece integral part of the applicator body.

[0078] EB 4: The applicator according to any of the preceding EBs, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements are multi-leg elements which have at least two legs separated from one another and by which they are connected to the applicator body and which merge with one another at a distance from the applicator body.

[0079] EB 5: The applicator according to any of the preceding EBs 1 to 3, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements are multi-leg elements which have at least two legs by which they are connected to the applicator body, wherein the at least two legs merge with one another at the applicator body, and ideally the at least two legs are separated from one another at a distance from the applicator body.

[0080] EB 6: The applicator according to any of the preceding EBs, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements each have at least two, preferably three feet which define a cavity between them.

[0081] EB 7: The applicator according to any of the preceding EBs 1 to 3, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements have the shape of a spring, preferably a coil spring, wherein one end of the spring is connected to the applicator body, and the other end of the spring is preferably freestanding.

[0082] EB 8: The applicator according to EB 7, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements in the shape of a spring, at least partly, surround a cavity.

[0083] EB 9: The applicator according to one of the preceding EBs, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements are more than only insignificantly elastically deformable and, after relief, at least substantially return to their former, undeflected position.

[0084] EB 10: The applicator according to one of the preceding EBs, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of two neighboring microelements are distant from each other with a distance of between about 0,01 mm and about 3 mm, preferably between about 0,025 mm and about 2 mm, preferably between about 0,05 mm and about 1 mm, preferably between about 0,67 mm and about 0,73 mm, wherein the distance is ideally measured from the center of one microelement to the center of the neighboring microelement, preferably measured at the applicator body.

[0085] EB 11: The applicator according to one of the preceding EBs, characterised in that the flocking formed by the array of elastically deformable microelements has a density of about 1 microelement per mm2 to about 100 microelements per mm2, more preferably about 1 microelement per mm 2< to about 50 microelements per mm 2< .

[0086] EB 12: The applicator according to one of the preceding EBs, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements have legs with an average diameter between about 40 µm and about 900 µm, preferably between about 50 µm and about 400 µm.

[0087] EB 13: The applicator according to one of the preceding EBs, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements have legs with an average diameter of about 400 µm, and wherein the flocking formed by the array of elastically deformable microelements has a density of about 1 microelement per mm 2< .

[0088] EB 14: The applicator according to one of the preceding EBs 1 to 12, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements have legs with an average diameter of about 50 µm, and wherein the flocking formed by the array of elastically deformable microelements has a density of about 100 microelements per mm 2< .

[0089] EB 15: Method to manufacture an applicator according to one of the preceding EBs, characterised in that the applicator is produced at least partially, in particular completely, by additive manufacturing.

[0090] EB 16: Method to manufacture an applicator according to one of the EBs 1 to 4, characterised in that the applicator is produced at least partially, in particular completely, by an injection molding process.

Claims

1. An applicator (1) for the application of a decorative, a caring and / or a pharmaceutical substance to the at least substantially hairless skin, with a substantially rigid applicator body (2), an application surface (4) of which carries a flock which gives it a softer tactile impression compared to the application surface (4) in the unflocked state, characterised in that the flocking is formed by an array of elastically deformable microelements (5) which are arranged substantially in a defined manner and extend substantially in a defined manner away from the application surface (4), which are preferably distant from each other, and which protrude outwards from the application surface (4) by a maximum amount of about 10 mm, preferably about 5 mm, more preferably about 2.5 mm and in that the microelements (5) are arranged in straight rows which are parallel to the longitudinal axis of the applicator (1), and at least two adjacent rows have a different number of microelements (5).

2. The applicator (1) according to claim 1, characterised in that the microelements (5) protrude outwards from the application surface (4) by a minimum amount of about 0.5 mm, preferably about 1,0 mm, preferably about 1.5 mm.

3. The applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements (5) are multi-leg elements which have at least two legs (6) separated from one another and by which they are connected to the applicator body (2) and which merge with one another at a distance from the applicator body (2).

4. The applicator (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements (5) are multi-leg elements which have at least two legs (6) by which they are connected to the applicator body (2), wherein the at least two legs (6) merge with one another at the applicator body (2), and ideally the at least two legs (6) are separated from one another at a distance from the applicator body (2).

5. The applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements (5) each have at least two, preferably three feet (6) which define a cavity (8) between them.

6. The applicator (1) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements (5) have the shape of a spring, preferably a coil spring, wherein one end of the spring is connected to the applicator body (2), and the other end of the spring is preferably freestanding.

7. The applicator (1) according to claim 6, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements (5) in the shape of a spring, at least partly, surround a cavity (8).

8. The applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements (5) are more than only insignificantly elastically deformable and, after relief, at least substantially return to their former, undeflected position.

9. The applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of two neighboring microelements (5) are distant from each other with a distance of between about 0,01 mm and about 3 mm, preferably between about 0,025 mm and about 2 mm, preferably between about 0,05 mm and about 1 mm, preferably between about 0,67 mm and about 0,73 mm, wherein the distance is ideally measured from the center of one microelement (5) to the center of the neighboring microelement (5), preferably measured at the applicator body (2).

10. The applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the flocking formed by the array of elastically deformable microelements (5) has a density of about 1 microelement per mm2 to about 100 microelements per mm2, more preferably about 1 microelement per mm2 to about 50 microelements per mm2.

11. The applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements (5) have legs (6) with an average diameter between about 40 µm and about 900 µm, preferably between about 50 µm and about 400 µm.

12. The applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements (5) have legs (6) with an average diameter of about 400 µm, and wherein the flocking formed by the array of elastically deformable microelements (5) has a density of about 1 microelement per mm2.

13. The applicator (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterised in that at least some, ideally the predominant part of the microelements (5) have legs (6) with an average diameter of about 50 µm, and wherein the flocking formed by the array of elastically deformable microelements (5) has a density of about 100 microelements per mm2.

14. A method to manufacture an applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the applicator (1) is produced at least partially, in particular completely, by additive manufacturing.

15. The method to manufacture an applicator (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the applicator (1) is produced at least partially, in particular completely, by an injection molding process.

Images