Device for dispensing and applying a lotion

Abstract

Provided is an apparatus (1) for dispensing and applying a lotion such as a sunscreen cream. The apparatus includes a main body (3). The main body (3) is elastically deformable and defines a container (21) for storing the lotion therein. The apparatus also includes a head (5) that defines one or more apertures (57) extending over a region that defines a first rigid surface of the head (5). The main body (3) and the head (5) are connected such that there is a fluid connection between the container (21) and the one or more apertures (57) of the head (5). The apparatus also includes an absorbent applicator (7) that caps the first rigid surface of the head (5). Using the absorbent applicator (7) supported by the first rigid surface of the head (5), a user can apply the sunscreen cream.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This specification relates to an apparatus for dispensing and applying a lotion, and more particularly to a sunscreen cream applicator.

Background Art

[0002] People who spend a significant amount of time outdoors are particularly susceptible to the damaging effects of solar radiation on the skin. In this regard, it is well recognized that lotions such as sunscreen creams can provide beneficial protection. However, in the process of applying sunscreen cream, it often results in the cream being dispensed onto areas where it is not needed, such as the palm of the hand, and in this case, problems can also arise, for example, due to the hand becoming slippery. This can be a particular problem for sports players such as golfers who rely on a firm grip on their equipment to enjoy and succeed in their sport.

[0003] In such circumstances, the present disclosure was devised.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] This specification, in a first aspect, relates to an apparatus for dispensing and applying a lotion, the apparatus comprising: a body that is elastically deformable and defines a container for storing the lotion therein; a head that defines one or more apertures extending across a region of a first rigid surface of the head, the body and the head being connected such that there is a fluid connection between the container and the one or more apertures of the head; and an absorbent applicator that caps the first rigid surface of the head.

[0005] Accordingly, by first compressing the body to transfer a portion of the lotion stored in the container to the head and filling the absorbent applicator with the lotion (e.g., sunscreen cream) through one or more apertures, the lotion can be applied. Once the lotion is filled, the absorbent applicator can be brought into contact with the user's skin. In this way, the lotion is transferred from the device, specifically from the absorbent applicator of the device, to the user's skin as needed. The absorbent applicator fits snugly into the head portion, capping the head of the device. With the device, the user can carry around a lotion such as sunscreen cream and access it as needed. The lotion such as sunscreen cream stored in the container of the device can be directly applied to the user's skin through the absorbent applicator, thereby minimizing unnecessary spread of the lotion to unwanted areas. Importantly, the first surface of the head with rigidity ensures that the absorbent applicator does not deform significantly even when rubbed against the skin, enabling not only the application of the lotion to the skin but also rubbing it into the contours of the skin, which is important for providing sufficient and consistent coverage for some lotions such as sunscreen cream.

[0006] The body is typically sized to be comfortably grasped by an adult hand. Accordingly, the device can be comfortably grasped by an adult hand.

[0007] The body is typically elongated and has a longitudinal axis extending from a head end that connects to a head at one end of the body to an opposing lower end. The length of the body from the head end to the opposing lower end can be greater than 30 mm, for example greater than 50 mm, or greater than 70 mm. The length of the body from the head end to the opposing lower end can be less than 150 mm, for example less than 130 mm, or less than 110 mm. The length of the body from the head end to the opposing lower end can be about 90 mm. The minimum width of the body can be greater than 30 mm, for example greater than 40 mm, or greater than 50 mm. The maximum width of the body can be less than 90 mm, for example less than 80 mm, or less than 70 mm. The width of the body can be about 60 mm. The maximum depth of the body can be less than 56 mm, for example less than 51 mm, or less than 44 mm. The minimum depth of the body can be greater than 20 mm, for example greater than 25 mm, or greater than 32 mm. The width of the body can be about 38 mm.

[0008] Therefore, the device is sized such that most people can easily carry and use it.

[0009] It will be understood that the body being elastically deformable means that when a force is applied, the body is compressible and then returns to its original uncompressed shape when the force is released. The force used to compress the body can be applied by the user's hand, for example, by pressing the body with the palm or fingers.

[0010] The container can accommodate a volume of 500 ml or less, or less than 500 ml, or less than 400 ml, or less than 300 ml, or less than 250 ml, or less than 200 ml, or less than 100 ml, or 75 ml, or less than 75 ml. The container can accommodate a volume of 50 ml, or more than 50 ml, or more than 75 ml, or more than 100 ml, or more than 200 ml, or more than 250 ml.

[0011] Each aperture can have a circular cross-sectional shape, but other cross-sectional shapes such as square, triangular, elliptical, oval, polygonal, etc. are also possible. The cross-sectional area of the aperture is 12 mm 2 less, and in some cases 6 mm 2less than, or 3 mm 2 even if less. The cross-sectional area of the aperture is 0.1 mm 2 super, and in some cases 0.4 mm 2 super, or 0.8 mm 2 super and may be. Thus, the lotion can easily pass through each aperture, but the material forming the first surface of the head's rigidity is sufficient to properly support the absorbent applicator thereon.

[0012] The total cross-sectional area of one or more apertures can be more than 10 mm 2 super. The total cross-sectional area of one or more apertures can be less than 5 cm 2 and may be. Thus, one or more apertures are sized to allow a useful amount of lotion to pass through to fill the absorbent applicator.

[0013] The depth of each aperture can be 5 mm or less than 5 mm, or less than 4 mm, or less than 3 mm, or less than 2 mm, or less than 1.5 mm. The depth of each aperture can be more than 0.5 mm. The depth of the aperture can be the straight-line distance from the edge of the aperture on the first surface of the head's rigidity to the edge of the aperture on the second opposing surface of the head on the opposite side of the first surface.

[0014] The fluid connection between the container and one or more apertures can be a fluid connection with a valve. In other words, the fluid connection is not always open. Whether the fluid connection is open or not can depend on the state of the valve. In other words, even if the container and one or more apertures are made to be temporarily out of fluid communication by the valve, it should be understood that a fluid connection is still provided between the container of the body and one or more apertures of the head as long as it is possible to make the container in fluid communication with one or more apertures using the valve.

[0015] The absorbent applicator can be made of a foamed material, sometimes called a foam. The absorbent applicator may be porous. The absorbent applicator may include a layer made of foam that is formed to conform to the first surface of the head portion. In this way, the absorbent applicator caps the first portion of the head portion by fitting snugly into the first portion of the head portion. The absorbent applicator may be made of polyester, such as polyester fleece.

[0016] The absorbent applicator may include a layer. The absorbent applicator may include a foam layer. The absorbent applicator has a thickness. When the absorbent applicator includes a foam layer, the thickness of the absorbent applicator is the thickness of the foam layer of which it is composed. This thickness of the absorbent applicator can be greater than 0.5 mm, for example greater than 1 mm, or greater than 1.5 mm. The thickness of the absorbent applicator may be less than 10 mm, for example less than 8 mm, or less than 6 mm. The thickness of the absorbent applicator can be about 1.5 mm. An absorbent applicator having a thickness within the indicated range is thick enough to absorb an effective amount of lotion for the user to apply, such as sunscreen cream, but does not absorb the lotion excessively (which is not only uneconomical but also may make the user's hand slippery).

[0017] The head of the device may define a cavity that contributes to the fluid connection between the container and the one or more apertures. That is, the head of the device can be hollow, thereby forming a cavity within the device, and this cavity can form part of the fluid connection between the container and the one or more apertures.

[0018] The cavity within the head of the device may have a cross-sectional area that decreases as the distance from the body increases and then increases again when it reaches the minimum area. The cross-sectional shape of the cavity may change as the distance from the body increases.

[0019] The rigid first surface of the head of the device has a shape that makes it easy to apply lotion from the absorbent applicator to a person, particularly to a person's face.

[0020] At least a portion of the first surface of the head may define a substantially concave profile in a first direction. Thus, the shape of the first surface can facilitate the effective application of lotion to the raised and protruding areas of the head or body. At least a portion of the first surface of the head may define a substantially convex profile in a second direction. Thus, the shape of the first surface can additionally or alternatively facilitate the effective application of lotion to the wrinkles, dents, and depressions of the head and body. The second direction may be transverse to the first direction. Thus, a head shape including both convex and concave profiles can be used to apply lotion to substantially any part of the head and body.

[0021] The absorbent applicator caps the head of the device. The absorbent applicator typically forms an absorbent layer having a shape that conforms to the shape of the head of the device. The shape of the applicator surface is determined by the surface shape or form of the head. The surface shape or form of the head is the outer surface shape or form and is shaped such that the contact between the absorbent applicator and the user's skin is enhanced. In this way, the lotion can be applied to the user's skin, for example, the skin of the user's face, in an optimized manner for uniform and complete distribution of the lotion.

[0022] The rigid first surface of the head may be convex in shape. The rigid first surface of the head may include peaks. The rigid first surface of the head may include a plurality of peaks, for example, a first peak and a second peak. The first peak and the second peak may together form the first surface of a saddle-shaped head. The first peak and the second peak may be substantially the same size. The first peak may extend to a height higher than the height of the second peak.

[0023] The rigid first surface of the head may comprise a central region having a concave cross-section in a first plane and a convex cross-section in a second orthogonal plane. In the first plane, convex cross-sections may be present on one or both sides of the concave cross-section.

[0024] The first surface of the head's rigidity may include a plurality of peaks, usually two peaks.

[0025] The first surface of the head's rigidity may include two peaks with a connecting ridge.

[0026] The first surface of the rigidity may define a saddle shape.

[0027] One or more apertures of the device may be a plurality of apertures.

[0028] The aperture(s) may be disposed at or around one or more vertices of the head's peak(s). The aperture(s) may be disposed concentrically around one or more vertices of the head's peak(s). One or more apertures may be disposed along the connecting ridge of the head. The aperture may be disposed at or around the center point of the head's connecting ridge. The aperture(s) may be disposed concentrically around the center point of the head's connecting ridge.

[0029] One or more apertures may be dispersed across the entire first surface of the head's rigidity.

[0030] One or more apertures may include a single aperture, or two or more apertures, for example, more than 4 apertures, or more than 12 apertures, or more than 24 apertures, or more than 48 apertures, or more than 96 apertures. The number of apertures may be less than 400 apertures, in some cases less than 350 apertures, or less than 300 apertures, or less than 200 apertures or less than 150 apertures. The number of apertures may be, for example, 106.

[0031] The device may further comprise a lotion valve between the body and the head, the lotion valve having a first configuration in which passage of lotion from the body through the fluid connection to one or more apertures is restricted or prevented, and a second configuration in which passage of lotion from the body through the fluid connection to one or more apertures is possible.

[0032] The head of the device may be connected to the body via a rotatable mount such that the head can rotate (or be rotated) relative to the body about the longitudinal axis of the device.

[0033] The head of the device may typically be connected to the body via a screw fitting or screw mount that operates about the longitudinal axis of the device.

[0034] The head may be rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the device between a first position relative to the body and a second position relative to the body. Rotation of the head relative to the body may be configured to change the configuration of the lotion valve. In the first position, the lotion valve may be in the first configuration. In the second position, the valve may be in the second configuration. The angle between the first position and the second position may be 180 degrees or less, or 10 degrees or more. The angle may be, for example, about 90 degrees.

[0035] The head and the body can each have cross-sections that coincide with each other in a first position but do not coincide with each other in a second position when the head is rotated relative to the body. For example, the head can have an elliptical cross-section, and the body can have an elliptical cross-section. In the first position, the major axis of the elliptical cross-section of the head can be parallel to the major axis of the elliptical cross-section of the body. In the second position, the major axis of the elliptical cross-section of the head can be perpendicular to the major axis of the elliptical cross-section of the body. Thus, by comparing the position of the major axis of the elliptical cross-section of the head with the major axis of the elliptical cross-section of the body, a user of the device can easily determine, for example, by simply touching, whether the lotion valve is in the second (open) configuration or the first (restricted or closed) configuration. Accordingly, the device is suitable for use even in busy situations where the user has no ability or desire to look at the device to determine whether the lotion valve is in the closed (first) configuration or the open (second) configuration.

[0036] The absorbent applicator can be formed from a flexible material. The absorbent applicator may be porous.

[0037] When the device includes an absorbent applicator formed from a flexible material, the applicator tends to conform to the smaller contours of the user's skin when applying lotion, thereby facilitating a uniform application of lotion such as sunscreen cream and enhancing the intended skin protection effect.

[0038] When the device includes a porous absorbent applicator, this enhances the ability to fill the absorbent applicator with lotion before application.

[0039] The device may include engagement means that functions to hold an absorbent applicator that caps the rigid first surface of the head in a predetermined position. The engagement means can function as a locator when assembling the absorbent applicator to the rigid first surface of the head.

[0040] In some cases, the head may include the engaging means, while in other cases, the engaging means may be present on the head. For example, the engaging means may include one or more protrusions on the head around which the absorbent applicator is formed. The protrusion(s) engage the absorbent applicator by being recessed into the absorbent applicator or, for example, passing through one or more fixing holes of the absorbent applicator, thus serving to hold the absorbent applicator in place.

[0041] The absorbent applicator may be provided with the engaging means, or the engaging means may be present as part of the absorbent applicator. For example, the engaging means may include an adhesive.

[0042] The engaging means may be composed of a first element that is part of the head and a second element that is part of the absorbent applicator, and the first element and the second element are related to and interact with each other. For example, the first element of the engaging means may be provided with a protrusion protruding from the head, and the second element may include a recess in the absorbent applicator configured to receive the protrusion of the head.

[0043] The engaging means may include a clamp. The clamp may be one or more clamp elements or may include one or more clamp elements. The clamp can be clamped to the head or around the head, for example around the head, to sandwich the rim of the absorbent applicator between the ring clamp and the head.

[0044] The clamp may include a first set of cooperating elements. The head may include a second set of cooperating elements. Each element of the second set of cooperating elements typically has a partner element within the first set of cooperating elements. Each element of the second set of cooperating elements typically has a partner element within the first set of cooperating elements and forms a pair of cooperating elements therewith. When the clamp is clamped onto or around the head, each first cooperating element can engage with a corresponding second cooperating element. When the absorbent applicator is attached to the head and the clamp is attached onto or around the head, each first cooperating element can engage with a corresponding second cooperating element such that the engaged pair of cooperating elements passes through a fixing hole of the absorbent applicator. Thus, by passing through the fixing hole of the absorbent applicator, the absorbent applicator is more firmly held in a predetermined position on the head. By being firmly held at multiple points, even if the absorbent applicator deteriorates somewhat over time, it remains firmly attached to the head and thus the use of the device can continue.

[0045] The first set of cooperating elements can include at least one cooperating element, for example, a plurality of cooperating elements. The first set of cooperating elements can include less than 10 cooperating elements, for example, 5 or fewer cooperating elements. Each cooperating element of the first set of cooperating elements can have a substantially the same shape and size as each other cooperating element of the first set of cooperating elements.

[0046] The second set of cooperating elements can include at least one cooperating element, for example, a plurality of cooperating elements. The second set of cooperating elements can include less than 10 cooperating elements, for example, 5 or fewer cooperating elements. Each cooperating element of the second set of cooperating elements can have a substantially the same shape and size as each other cooperating element of the second set of cooperating elements.

[0047] One of the first set of cooperating elements and the second set of cooperating elements may each define an opening internally for receiving the respective corresponding fixed protrusions of the other of the first set of cooperating elements and the second set of cooperating elements. The openings can be defined in each of the second set of cooperating elements, and the fixed protrusions can be provided in each of the first set of cooperating elements.

[0048] The engaging means may be separately identifiable from the head or the absorbent applicator, such as an adhesive attachment that helps attach the first rigid surface of the head to the absorbent applicator.

[0049] The device may further comprise an air inlet that allows air to enter the container.

[0050] The air inlet typically includes a stop valve, thereby allowing air from the ambient atmosphere to enter the container while preventing or blocking the escape of air or any other fluid within the container. When the body is deformed, for example by compression, pressure accumulates within the container. If the stop valve prevents or blocks the escape of air from the air inlet, the main pressure relief mechanism can be effected via a fluid connection to one or more apertures. Pressure relief can occur by the movement of a lotion passing through one or more apertures via the fluid connection.

[0051] The device may be arranged such that when the body, which is elastically deformed to compress the container, is allowed to return to its original shape, air enters the container as the volume of the container increases.

[0052] The presence of the air inlet that allows the body to return to its original shape enables, for example, recompression of the body to refill the absorbent applicator.

[0053] The air inlet can be arranged to direct air to the distal end of the container, away from the proximal end of the container, where the proximal end is closer to the head than the distal end.

[0054] The air inlet can be arranged to introduce air into the container at the distal end, away from the proximal end, and the proximal end is closer to the head than the distal end.

[0055] The air inlet can typically include an air inlet entry through which air enters the device. The air inlet can include an air inlet passage through which the air that has entered the device passes. The air inlet passage can be formed within the material forming the main body of the device. The air inlet passage can include a tube configured to extend to a position within the container. The air inlet passage can include a tube configured to extend to the distal end of the container.

[0056] The air inlet entry can be arranged at the lower end or the distal end of the main body of the device.

[0057] The air inlet entry may be arranged on the head of the device. The air inlet entry may be arranged on the surface of the head of the device. For example, the air inlet entry may be arranged on the surface of the head of the device, and this surface is hidden from view when the cross-section of the head and the cross-section of the main body coincide with each other at a first position.

[0058] The device may be provided with a carrying means for carrying the device. The carrying means may be a handle or a strap.

[0059] The carrying means may be attached to the rest of the device at the lower part or the distal end of the main body. The lower end or the distal end of the main body, that is, the end of the main body opposite to the head end of the main body, may include a through-hole through which the carrying means can pass.

[0060] When the device is suspended and carried via the carrying means at the lower end or the distal end of the main body, the device is suspended such that the head end is lower than the lower end. In this way, when the device is suspended by the through-hole, the lotion in the container of the main body tends to accumulate away from the distal end or the lower end of the main body.

[0061] The air inlet can be arranged within the through-hole at the lower end of the main body of the device.

[0062] When the lotion valve is present and in the closed (second) configuration, when the device is suspended by the through-hole, the lotion tends to accumulate in the region of the container directed towards the closed lotion valve. Thereafter, when the lotion valve is opened, the lotion can move into the cavity of the head.

[0063] When the lotion valve is in the restricted (first) configuration, or when the device has no lotion valve, when the device is oriented such that the lower end of the main body is positioned higher than the head end, the lotion can accumulate in the cavity of the head. The device is usually oriented in this way when suspended by the through-hole. Depending on the viscosity of the lotion and / or the surface tension of the lotion, combined with the physical characteristics of each of the one or more apertures, such as the dimensions of the one or more apertures and the nature of the material of the head, under static conditions, the lotion accumulated in the cavity of the head by the force of gravity can be kept there and prevented from oozing out from the one or more apertures.

[0064] The device may further comprise a cap configured to be removably held on the head, whereby the cap, when attached, covers the absorbent applicator and protects the absorbent applicator from the ambient atmosphere.

[0065] The cap may be fitted onto the head by a friction fit.

[0066] The cap may include one sealing element or a plurality of sealing elements. The sealing element(s) may extend from the inner surface of the cap. The sealing element(s) may extend in a direction parallel to the central axis of the container. The sealing element(s) may extend such that when the cap is attached to the device, it enters and thereby closes, for example, the aperture(s) of the head, so as to engage with the aperture(s) of the head. In this way, the sealing element(s) can seal the container when the cap is attached to prevent the sunscreen cream from drying out. This is particularly advantageous when the device is not used for a long period of time. The sealing element(s) may be in the form of a protrusion shaped to enter and close the aperture(s) of the head when the cap is attached to the device.

[0067] The cap may provide a stand on which the device can be stood upright.

[0068] The cap may be such that the device can be stood on the cap on a support surface such as a tabletop. The cap may be such that the device can be stood on the cap on a support surface with the distal end of the body maintained at the topmost position. The cap may include a ridge for supporting the device on the support surface. The ridge may surround the plane of the cap.

[0069] The device may include a mirror surface.

[0070] The mirror surface may be a flat mirror surface. The mirror surface may be removable. In this way, the mirror may be utilized by the user to assist in the application of sunscreen cream to his or her face when using the device to apply the sunscreen cream. The mirror may be part of the cap. The cap may include a mirror or a plane including the mirror surface. The cap may include a mirror or a plane including the mirror surface and a ridge surrounding the plane, and the cap, and when the device and the cap are attached, the device may be stood or supported on the ridge.

[0071] The device may be provided with a switch. The switch may be in the form of a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor may be configured to detect that the absorbent applicator has been pressed against the user's skin during the operation of applying a lotion such as sunscreen cream to the skin using the applicator device. The pressure sensor may function only when activated. In other examples, the switch may be actuated by rotating the head of the device relative to the body by a predetermined angle, for example 180°. The switch may not be activated unless the head of the device is rotated relative to the body by a predetermined angle, for example 180°. The switch may be turned on and off by rotating the head of the device in the opposite direction relative to the body.

[0072] The switch may be functionally connected to an indicator such as a light emitter and / or a sound emitter. In this way, when a switch such as a pressure sensor is activated, light may be emitted from the light emitter and / or, if necessary, sound may be emitted from the sound emitter. It will be understood that when the switch is a pressure sensor, the generation of sound and / or light may be caused by the detection of the contact between the absorbent applicator and the user's skin.

[0073] The generation of sound and / or light can distract attention, thereby making it easier to apply lotion to a small child who may be too fidgety.

[0074] Next, examples of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the following figures.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0075]

Figure 1

Figure 2(a)

Figure 2(b)

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8(a)

Figure 8(b)

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0076] Figure 1 shows an exploded view of the sunscreen cream applicator 1 according to the present invention. The elastically deformable body 3 is connected to the head 5 via a rotatable mount 27. In this embodiment, a lotion valve is also present at the interface between the body 3 and the head 5. The deformable body 3 is hollow and surrounds a container 21 for storing sunscreen cream. The deformable body 3 is made of a material that tends to be compressed when pressed by the user's hand and return to its uncompressed shape when the compressive force is released. Examples of suitable materials include polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and the like. The head is made of a rigid material that tends to maintain its shape even when pressure is applied, such as a suitable rigid plastic. It is desirable that at least some, if not all, of the materials of the applicator be recyclable.

[0077] The head 5 has a plurality of apertures 57 defined therein that extend over a region defining a first surface of the rigidity of the head. The apertures are in fluid communication with the container 21 of the body 3 via a cavity 29 formed in the head 5. That is, there is a fluid connection between the container and the one or more apertures. In this embodiment, a lotion valve is present at the fluid interface between the container 21 and the cavity 29.

[0078] The uppermost surface of the rigid head 5 is shaped to facilitate the application of lotion from the absorbent applicator to a person, particularly to a person's face. In the present embodiment, the first surface of the rigid head has a saddle shape. A substantially concave profile is shown in a first direction along the major axis of the elliptical cross-section of the head, while a substantially convex profile is shown in the transverse direction. The concave profile along the first direction has peaks on both sides. When transferring lotion such as sunscreen cream from the rigid head of the applicator to the user's face, this surface shape has been found to be beneficial in well accommodating the contour of the face and evenly applying the lotion across the user's face. The first surface of the rigid head is provided with a plurality of apertures 57. The absorbent applicator 7 caps the head and fits snugly thereon. The absorbent applicator 7 is made of a porous foam material. In the present embodiment, protrusions 55 dispersed around the outer surface of the head engage corresponding depressions on the lower surface of the absorbent applicator layer (see Fig. 2(a)) and function as engaging means to maintain a snug fit between the rigid head 5 and the absorbent applicator 7.

[0079] The cap 9 rests on the absorbent applicator layer 7 and protects the absorbent applicator from the ambient atmosphere and dirt. In the present embodiment, the cap 9 engages the head 5 via a friction fit 53 strengthened by a ridge on the outer periphery of the rigid head 5. The cap 9 can be removed when access to the absorbent applicator surface is required, for example, when the user wishes to apply sunscreen cream to himself or herself using the device, and can then be reattached to the rigid head 5 at an appropriate time. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, a mirror 11 or a mirrored surface is also incorporated into the cap. The user can use this mirror, for example, to check the application when applying sunscreen cream to his or her face using the device. The cap 9 can function as a stand on which the applicator can be erected.

[0080] The main body 3 of the applicator has a through hole 17 that penetrates from one side of the applicator main body to the other side at the end of the main body away from the head 5. The loop 31 passes through the through hole 17 and provides a means of transportation for transporting the device 1.

[0081] The applicator of this embodiment has a substantially elliptical cross-section perpendicular to the main longitudinal axis of the applicator. The outer elliptical shape of the main body 3 is the same as the outer elliptical shape of the head 5, and these two elements are connected.

[0082] The cross-sectional view of the applicator is shown in Fig. 2(a) showing an exploded view and Fig. 2(b) showing an un-exploded view. In this embodiment, the container 21 for storing sunscreen cream is created by providing a hollow space within the deformable main body 3. The air tube 23 connects the container 21 to the external atmosphere. The air inlet entry 15 disposed within the through hole 17 in this embodiment provides an inlet for air to enter the container 21. A stop valve is present at the air inlet entry 1, allowing air to enter the container but preventing the pressurized air within the container from flowing out through the air tube 23. Air enters through the air inlet entry 15, passes through the air tube 23, and enters the container 21 at the air inlet 25. The air enters the container 23 at the end away from the head 5.

[0083] In the unrolled cross-sectional view of Fig. 2(b), the orientation of the head 5 with respect to the main body 3 is such that the elliptical cross-sections of these two elements are in the same orientation and coincide (see also Fig. 3). In this orientation of the head and the main body, the lotion valve 27 is closed, preventing the free movement of the sunscreen cream between the container 21 and the cavity 29 of the head 5. This corresponds to the first configuration of the lotion valve.

[0084] Between the main body 3 and the head 5, there is a rotational connection by a rotation axis corresponding to the longitudinal central axis of the main body. The head 5 can rotate relative to the main body 3 between a first position (see FIGS. 2(b) and 3) where the elliptical connection cross-sections of the head 5 and the main body 3 are aligned, and a second position (see FIG. 4) where the major axis of the elliptical connection cross-section of the head 5 is perpendicular to the elliptical connection cross-section of the main body 3. In the first position, the lotion valve between the container 21 and the cavity 29 is closed in a first configuration. In the second position, the lotion valve between the container 21 and the cavity 29 is open in a second configuration. When the lotion valve between the container 21 and the cavity 29 is open, the sunscreen cream stored in the container 21 can be transferred to the cavity 29. This can be done, for example, by compressing the elastically deformable main body 3. From the cavity 29, the sunscreen cream can pass through the aperture 57 of the head 5 and enter the absorbent applicator foam layer 7. When the absorbent applicator foam layer is filled with sunscreen cream, the user can rotate the head 5 to the first position, thereby closing the lotion valve between the container 21 and the head cavity 29. Next, the user can rub the absorbent applicator against his or her skin, thereby applying the sunscreen cream to the skin, accessing the contours of the body or face using the shape of the applicator head, and maximizing protection by rubbing the lotion against the skin using the rigidity provided by the head. In this way, the user can apply the protective sunscreen cream without getting the sunscreen cream on his or her hands.

[0085] In this embodiment, the fluid connection from the container 21 to the cavity 29 of the head 5 nominally passes through a circular orifice, which is divided into quadrants. Two of the quadrants are open and two of the quadrants are closed. Similarly, the fluid connection to the cavity 29 of the head 5 nominally passes through a circular orifice, which is divided into two open quadrants and two closed quadrants. When the head is in the first position, its elliptical cross-section is aligned with the elliptical cross-section of the body (see FIG. 3), and the closed quadrant of the body blocks the fluid connection provided by the open quadrant of the head, and the closed quadrant of the head blocks the fluid connection provided by the open quadrant of the body. In this way, the closed quadrants of the head together block the free fluid connection between the body container 21 and the head cavity 29. When the head is in the second position, its elliptical cross-section is perpendicular to the elliptical cross-section of the body (see FIG. 4), and the closed quadrant of the body overlaps with the closed quadrant of the head, thereby opening the free fluid connection between the body container 21 and the head cavity 29 through the open quadrants of the body 3 and the head 5.

[0086] FIG. 5 shows the head 5 of an alternative embodiment of the applicator. In this embodiment, the air inlet entry 15 is located on the surface of the base of the head 5. The air tube 23 extends from the inlet 15 into the head 5, passes through the orifice providing the fluid connection to the container 21, and proceeds along the longitudinal axis of the container 21 to the end of the container remote from the head. Thus, for example, following deformation of the body due to compression, the air entering the container 21 is directed towards the distal end of the container. Since the tube 23 extends along the central longitudinal axis of the body, it is not affected by the deformation of the body during compression and also does not affect the deformation of the body. In the embodiment partially shown in FIG. 5, the head is attached to the body by a screw connection.

[0087] Figure 6 shows details of an embodiment of an apparatus including a pressure sensor 61. The pressure sensor 61 is disposed on a first rigid surface of the head 5 and responds to the application of force to the absorbent applicator 7 such as would occur when using the apparatus to apply sunscreen cream to a user. In the body 3 of the applicator, a lamp and a speaker 63 that emit light and sound respectively are housed when the pressure sensor 61 detects force. The electrical connection between the pressure sensor 61 and the lamp and the speaker 63 is not shown. It will be understood that the apparatus typically also includes a power source such as a battery (not shown).

[0088] Figure 7 shows an exploded view of details of a further embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] In this embodiment, the absorbent applicator 7 comprises a series of holes 46 around the edge of its base. The head 5 of this embodiment includes two parts: a first head part 5a connected to the body 3 and a second head part 5b in which the dispensing aperture 57 is present. The second head part 5b further comprises six projections 48 disposed around its periphery. When the absorbent applicator 7 is attached to the head part 5b, each of these projections fits into a corresponding fixing hole 46 in the rim of the absorbent applicator 7. The attachment of the absorbent applicator 7 to the second head part 5b is further secured by a ring clamp 40 composed of a first ring clamp part 40a and a second ring clamp part 40b each having three pins 44. The pins 44 are arranged to engage with the projections 48 disposed around the second head part 5b. In this way, the absorbent applicator 7 is held on the second head part 5b by the projections 48 passing through the fixing holes 46 such that the inside of the absorbent applicator 7 contacts the outer surface of the second head part 5b and the outside of the absorbent applicator 7 contacts the body of the ring clamp 40.

[0090] Figure 8 shows the cap 9 of the apparatus according to one embodiment. The cap 9 of the present embodiment includes a series of seal elements 19 extending from the inner surface of the cap within the cap. The seal elements shown in Figure 8(a) engage with the corresponding holes of the absorbent applicator 7 and the corresponding apertures 49 of the head 5 when the cap 9 is attached to the apparatus 1. This provides an efficient seal when the cap is attached and prevents the sunscreen cream within the apparatus from drying out even if the apparatus is not used for a long period of time.

[0091] In summary, an apparatus (1) for dispensing and applying a lotion such as sunscreen cream is provided. The apparatus comprises a body (3). The body (3) is elastically deformable and defines a container (21) for storing the lotion therein. The apparatus also comprises a head (5) having one or more apertures (57) defined therein extending across a region defining a rigid first surface of the head (5). The body (3) and the head (5) are connected such that there is a fluid connection between the container (21) and the one or more apertures (57) of the head (5). The apparatus also comprises an absorbent applicator (7) capping the rigid first surface of the said head (5). The absorbent applicator (7) supported by the rigid first surface of the head (5) can be used to apply sunscreen cream to the user.

[0092] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words "comprise" and "contain" and their variations mean "include but are not limited to", and are not intended to exclude other components, integers, or steps. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, unless the context otherwise requires, the singular form includes the plural. In particular, when an indefinite article is used, unless the context otherwise requires, this specification should be understood to assume not only the singular form but also the plural form.

[0093] It should be understood that features, integers, properties, or groups described in connection with a particular aspect, embodiment, or example of the invention are applicable to any other aspect, embodiment, or example described herein, unless incompatible. All features and / or all steps of the disclosed method or process may be combined in any combination, except combinations in which at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive. The invention is not limited to the details of any of the foregoing embodiments. The invention extends to any novel feature or novel combination of features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings), or to any novel feature or novel combination of steps of any method or process thus disclosed.

Claims

1. An apparatus for dispensing and applying a lotion, comprising: a body, which is elastically deformable and defines a container for storing the lotion therein; and a head, which defines one or more apertures extending across a region defining a first rigid surface of the head, wherein the body and the head are connected such that there is a fluid connection between the container and the one or more apertures of the head; and an absorbent applicator that caps the first rigid surface of the head. The apparatus according to claim 1.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the head defines a cavity, and the cavity is part of the fluid connection between the container and the one or more apertures.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first rigid surface of the head defines a shape configured to facilitate application of the lotion from the absorbent applicator to a person, particularly to a person's face.

4. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least a portion of the first surface of the head defines a substantially concave profile in a first direction, and optionally, at least a portion of the first surface of the head defines a substantially convex profile in a second direction that is transverse to the first direction.

5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the one or more apertures are a plurality of apertures.

6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a lotion valve between the body and the head, the lotion valve having a first configuration in which passage of the lotion from the body through the fluid connection to the one or more apertures is restricted or prevented, and a second configuration in which passage of the lotion from the body through the fluid connection to the one or more apertures is enabled.

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the absorbent applicator is formed from a flexible material.

8. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the absorbent applicator is porous.

9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising engagement means that functions to hold the absorbent applicator that caps the first rigid surface of the head in a predetermined position.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the engaging means comprises a clamp having a first cooperating means, and the first cooperating means engages with a second cooperating means of the head.

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising an air inlet that allows air to enter the container.

12. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the apparatus is arranged such that when the body, which is elastically deformed to compress the container, is allowed to return to its original shape that increases the volume of the container, air enters the container.

13. The apparatus according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the air inlet is arranged to direct air to a distal end of the container away from a proximal end of the container, and the proximal end is closer to the head than the distal end.

14. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising carrying means by which the apparatus can be carried, and optionally, the carrying means is a handle or a strap.

15. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising a cap configured to be removably held on the head.

16. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the cap provides a stand on which the apparatus can be placed upright.

17. The apparatus according to any one of claims 15 or 16, wherein the cap comprises a sealing element for sealing the container when the cap is held on the head.

18. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the apparatus comprises a mirror surface.

19. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the apparatus comprises a switch such as a pressure sensor.

20. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the switch is functionally connected to an indicator, and the apparatus is configured such that the indicator operates upon activation of the switch.

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