Cosmetic composition spray device with piston-spring structure

Abstract

A system for spraying and injecting cosmetics includes a tank, a nozzle fluidly connected to the tank and including a Venturi tube and a tip, a cylinder with an outlet hole (the outlet hole is fluidly connected to the inlet of the Venturi tube), a piston disposed in the cylinder and displaceable within the cylinder, a drive unit for displacing the piston in a direction increasing the volume of the air intake space within the cylinder, an elastic member that deforms in response to the displacement of the piston and stores elastic energy while the piston is displaced, and a damper. The drive unit includes an elastic energy release mechanism that releases the elastic energy, causing the piston to move forward and vibrate. The damper is disposed on the nozzle between the Venturi tube and the tip and reduces the vibration.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Summary of the Invention

[0002] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in interpreting the scope of the claims.

[0003] Cosmetic compositions, such as liquid lotions containing hyaluronic acid, are typically applied to specific areas of a user's body (e.g., the face, hands, or arms). This is achieved via shallow transdermal delivery (i.e., shallow skin delivery). For more effective transdermal delivery of such cosmetics, it is desirable to atomize the cosmetics into fine droplets on the order of micrometers, which can then be jetted or sprayed at high speed onto the desired area of ​​the user's body. However, when the cosmetics are atomized, vibrations or shock waves may be transmitted to the user, which may cause discomfort to the user.

[0004] In one aspect, the present disclosure describes a system for spraying and ejecting a cosmetic product for transdermal delivery. The system includes a reservoir configured to hold the cosmetic product. It also includes a nozzle fluidly connected to the reservoir. The nozzle has a tip and a venturi tube. The venturi tube has a central longitudinal axis and an internal passageway extending along the central longitudinal axis. The internal passageway is fluidly connected to the reservoir through an orifice defined in the venturi tube. The internal passageway has a converging section, a diverging section, and a throat section located between the converging and diverging sections. The system also includes a cylinder. The cylinder has a central longitudinal axis, an end wall perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis, a peripheral wall extending from the end wall along the central longitudinal axis, and an exit hole formed in the end wall. The exit hole is fluidly connected to an inlet of the converging section of the venturi tube. The system also includes a piston. The piston is disposed within the cylinder and is displaceable within the cylinder along its longitudinal central axis. The piston cooperates with the cylinder to define an air intake space within the cylinder. The air intake space is fluidly connected to the inlet of the converging portion of the Venturi tube through the outlet hole of the cylinder. The system also includes a drive unit configured to displace the piston in a direction increasing the volume of the air intake space within the cylinder. The system also includes an elastic member configured to deform in response to the displacement of the piston and store elastic energy therein while the piston is displaced in a direction increasing the volume of the air intake space. The drive unit includes an elastic energy release mechanism that releases the elastic energy stored in the elastic member. As a result, the piston moves in a direction decreasing the volume of the air intake space. This movement causes vibration from the piston to the Venturi tube. The system also includes a damper located on the nozzle between the Venturi tube and the tip. The damper is configured to reduce the vibration.

[0005] In another aspect, a device for transdermal delivery of atomized cosmetic products is described, the device including the system and a housing that at least partially houses the disclosed system.

[0006] In yet another aspect, a kit for transdermal delivery of a sprayed cosmetic product is disclosed, the kit including the device and a plurality of nozzles, wherein the nozzle included in the device is a first nozzle of the plurality of nozzles, and the plurality of nozzles are configured to be connectable to the device.

[0007] In another aspect, the present disclosure describes a method for spraying and ejecting a cosmetic product for transdermal delivery. The method includes filling a reservoir with the cosmetic product. The reservoir is fluidly connected to a nozzle having a tip and a Venturi tube. The connection is made to an internal passage of the Venturi tube through an orifice defined in the Venturi tube. The internal passage has a converging section, a diverging section, and a throat section located between the converging and diverging sections. The method also includes displacing a piston within the cylinder in a direction increasing the volume of an air intake space within the cylinder. The air intake space is defined between the piston and an end wall of the cylinder. An outlet hole formed in the end wall of the cylinder is fluidly connected to an inlet of the converging section of the Venturi tube. The method also includes deforming an elastic member. The elastic member is configured to deform in response to displacement of the piston and store elastic energy therein. The deformation occurs while the piston is displaced in a direction increasing the volume of the air intake space. The method also includes a step of releasing the elastic energy stored in the elastic member. This causes the piston to move in a direction that reduces the volume of the air intake space. This further causes vibration from the piston to the Venturi tube. The method also includes a step of spraying and ejecting the cosmetic product to the outside. The cosmetic product is supplied from the tank to the internal passage of the Venturi tube. The spraying and ejection are performed by air pushed out of the cylinder by the piston's thrust. The air is pushed out through the outlet hole in the end wall of the cylinder. The method also includes a step of reducing the vibration. This reduction is achieved by using a damper disposed between the Venturi tube and the tip of the nozzle. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this invention will become more readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0009] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary device for transdermal delivery of atomized liquid in accordance with the present technology.

[0010] [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary system for spraying and propelling cosmetic products for transdermal delivery in accordance with the present technology.

[0011] [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the Venturi tube of the exemplary system shown in FIG. 2 in accordance with the present technique.

[0012] [Figure 4] 3 is a perspective view of various gears forming a drive force transmission mechanism in the drive unit of the exemplary system shown in FIG. 2 in accordance with the present technology;

[0013] [Figure 5] 1 is an exemplary device in accordance with the present technology.

[0014] [Figure 6] 6 is an enlarged nozzle of the exemplary device shown in FIG. 5 in accordance with the present technique.

[0015] [Figure 7A] 6 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the exemplary device shown in FIG. 5 in accordance with the present technology. [Figure 7B] 6 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the exemplary device shown in FIG. 5 in accordance with the present technology. [Figure 7C] 6 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the exemplary device shown in FIG. 5 in accordance with the present technology. [Figure 7D] 6 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the exemplary device shown in FIG. 5 in accordance with the present technology.

[0016] [Figure 8] 1 is an exemplary kit according to the present technology.

[0017] [Figure 9]FIG. 1 illustrates a load cell for measuring vibrations of a device in accordance with the present technology.

[0018] [Figure 10A] 10 is a graph showing the vibration of the device without the damper in accordance with the present technology.

[0019] [Figure 10B] 10 is a graph illustrating the reduced vibration of the device when the damper is used in accordance with the present technology.

[0020] [Figure 11] 1 is an exemplary method of spraying and spraying cosmetic products for transdermal delivery according to the present technology. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] Although exemplary embodiments are shown and described, it will be understood that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0022] Described herein are novel systems for spraying and propelling liquids, particularly high molecular weight liquids, for transdermal delivery. Also described are novel devices for transdermal delivery of liquids, which devices include the above-described systems.

[0023] In particular, the present technology provides novel systems and devices for spraying and ejecting liquids for transdermal delivery. These do not require a replaceable, i.e., single-use / disposable, power source, such as a high-pressure gas cartridge. Therefore, the liquid can be sprayed and ejected as many times as desired by the user. Furthermore, an object of the present technology is to provide novel systems and devices for spraying and ejecting liquids for transdermal delivery. These do not require an external source, such as an air compressor or air pump. Therefore, they are compact and easy to move, transport, and handle. Finally, the present technology has the feature of providing shock absorption / cushioning, allowing the cosmetic to be administered in a comfortable manner for the user.

[0024] Furthermore, the system, device, and method according to the present disclosure do not require a replaceable power source. This refers to a single-use / disposable power source, such as a high-pressure gas cartridge, for spraying and ejecting liquid for transdermal delivery. Therefore, the system, device, and method according to the present technology can repeatedly spray and eject the liquid. In addition, the system, device, and method according to the present technology do not require any external power source, such as an air compressor or air pump. That is, the high-velocity air jet for spraying and ejecting the liquid can be generated internally. Therefore, the system and device as a whole can be compact enough to be portable and easy to move, transport, and handle.

[0025] In some embodiments, the technology includes a system for spraying and ejecting a cosmetic product for transdermal delivery. The system includes a reservoir configured to hold the cosmetic product. The system also includes a nozzle fluidly connected to the reservoir. The nozzle includes a tip and a venturi tube. The venturi tube has a central longitudinal axis and an internal passage extending along the central longitudinal axis. The internal passage is fluidly connected to the reservoir via an orifice defined in the venturi tube. The internal passage includes a converging section, a diverging section, and a throat section located between the converging and diverging sections. The system also includes a cylinder. The cylinder has a central longitudinal axis, an end wall perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis, a peripheral wall extending from the end wall along the central longitudinal axis, and an exit hole formed in the end wall. The exit hole is fluidly connected to an inlet of the converging section of the venturi tube. In some embodiments, the system further includes a piston. The piston is disposed within the cylinder and is displaceable within the cylinder along its longitudinal central axis. The piston cooperates with the cylinder to define an air intake space within the cylinder. The air intake space is fluidly connected to the inlet of the converging portion of the Venturi tube through the outlet hole of the cylinder. The system also includes a drive unit configured to displace the piston in a direction that increases the volume of the air intake space within the cylinder. The system also includes an elastic member configured to deform in response to the displacement of the piston and store elastic energy therein while the piston is displaced in a direction that increases the volume of the air intake space. The drive unit includes an elastic energy release mechanism that releases the elastic energy stored in the elastic member. This causes the piston to move in a direction that decreases the volume of the air intake space. This movement causes vibration from the piston to the Venturi tube. The system also includes a damper located on the nozzle between the Venturi tube and the tip. The damper is configured to reduce the vibration.

[0026] In some embodiments, the damper is selected from the group consisting of an elastic spring, a sponge, an air cushion, a rubber cushion, a bellows, an air cylinder damper, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the damper includes an elastomer. The elastomer is selected from the group consisting of rubber, nitrile rubber, fluororubber, silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), polyurethane, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the elastomer has a hardness of about 20 to 70 Shore A. In some embodiments, the elastomer has a hardness of about 30 to 60 Shore A.

[0027] In some embodiments, the system further includes a silencer disposed between the damper and the tip. The silencer is configured to further reduce the vibration. In some embodiments, the vibration is reduced to a force of approximately 0 to 20 gf (gram force).

[0028] In some embodiments, the piston includes a longitudinal central axis, an end wall opposite an end wall of the cylinder, and a peripheral wall extending from the end wall along the longitudinal central axis. A rack extending along the longitudinal central axis is formed on the outer surface of the peripheral wall of the piston. The drive unit includes a sector gear. The sector gear has teeth only in a specific angular range and meshes with the rack of the piston to linearly drive it. The combination of the sector gear and the rack forms the elastic energy release mechanism.

[0029] In some embodiments, the drive unit further includes a power source and an electric motor, the electric motor being electrically connected to the power source and configured to directly or indirectly drive the sector gear in rotation.

[0030] In some embodiments, the elastic member is a coil spring. The coil spring is at least partially contained within the piston. In some embodiments, the tank is fluidly connected to the throat of the Venturi. In some embodiments, the cosmetic product is a cosmetic or aesthetic product. In some embodiments, the cosmetic product may be a medication, makeup, or a skin cream.

[0031] In another aspect, the present disclosure describes a device for transdermal delivery of atomized cosmetic products, the device including the system described herein and a housing, the housing at least partially housing the system.

[0032] In yet another aspect, the present disclosure describes a kit for transdermal delivery of a sprayed cosmetic product. The kit includes the device described herein and a plurality of nozzles, wherein the nozzle included in the device is a first nozzle of the plurality of nozzles, and the plurality of nozzles are configured to be connectable to the device. In some embodiments, each nozzle of the plurality of nozzles has an outlet hole of a different size than the other nozzles of the plurality of nozzles. In some embodiments, each nozzle of the plurality of nozzles is configured to dispense a different cosmetic product. In some embodiments, the plurality of nozzles are disposable.

[0033] In yet another aspect, the present disclosure describes a method for spraying and ejecting a cosmetic product for transdermal delivery. The method includes filling a reservoir with the cosmetic product. The reservoir is fluidly connected to a nozzle having a tip and a Venturi tube. The connection is made to an internal passage of the Venturi tube through an orifice defined in the Venturi tube. The internal passage has a converging section, a diverging section, and a throat section located between the converging and diverging sections. The method also includes displacing a piston within the cylinder in a direction increasing the volume of an air intake space within the cylinder. The air intake space is defined between the piston and an end wall of the cylinder. An outlet hole formed in the end wall of the cylinder is fluidly connected to an inlet of the converging section of the Venturi tube. The method also includes deforming an elastic member. The elastic member is configured to deform in response to displacement of the piston and store elastic energy therein. The deformation occurs while the piston is displaced in a direction increasing the volume of the air intake space. The method also includes a step of releasing the elastic energy stored in the elastic member. This causes the piston to move in a direction that reduces the volume of the air intake space. This further causes vibration from the piston to the Venturi tube. The method also includes a step of spraying and ejecting the cosmetic product to the outside. The cosmetic product is supplied from the tank to the internal passage of the Venturi tube. The spraying and ejection are performed by air pushed out of the cylinder by the piston's thrust. The air is pushed out through the outlet hole in the end wall of the cylinder. The method also includes a step of reducing the vibration. This reduction is achieved by using a damper disposed between the Venturi tube and the tip of the nozzle.

[0034] In some embodiments, the method further includes further reducing the vibration using a silencer disposed between the damper and the tip of the nozzle. In some embodiments, the vibration is reduced to a force of about 0 to 20 gf (gram force).

[0035] Some exemplary embodiments of the present technology are shown in Figures 1 to 8. In each figure, the width, length, height, diameter, etc. of each element are not shown to scale and may differ from the actual parameters. It should be noted that in the particular figures, certain elements or features may be drawn larger or smaller than they actually are for emphasis.

[0036] As used herein, directional terms such as "top," "bottom," "up," "down," "upward," "downward," "up," "down," "right," and "left" should be understood relative to the orientation of the system and device in the drawings. Such orientation may or may not correspond to the orientation in actual use. Furthermore, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the terms "distal" or "distally," as used herein, refer to a direction away from the venturi that injects or ejects atomized liquid. On the other hand, the terms "proximal" or "proximally" mean in a direction closer to the Venturi tube.

[0037] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary device for transdermal delivery of atomized cosmetic products according to the present technology. The device 1 may include a system 10 for spraying and spraying liquid for transdermal delivery, as described in detail herein. The device 1 also includes a housing 20 that houses the system 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 20 substantially encloses the entire system 10, except for the Venturi outlet (shown in FIG. 2) for discharging the atomized liquid. However, the housing 20 may house only a portion of the system 10. The cosmetic composition targeted for spraying and spraying by the device 1 is, in particular, a cosmetic product such as a liquid lotion containing hyaluronic acid for transdermal delivery. However, the device 1, and therefore the system 10, may also be used to spray and spray water, oil, various lotions, and the like.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 2 , the system 10 further includes a tank 100. The tank 100 is configured to hold a certain amount of cosmetic product (F), for example, a few milliliters to several hundred milliliters of cosmetic product (F). The tank 100 is preferably made of, for example, transparent plastic or glass, allowing the contents and / or amount of the cosmetic product to be viewed from the outside. In some embodiments, a translucent or opaque material is used to fabricate the tank 100. The system 10 also includes a venturi tube 200, a cylinder 300 disposed adjacent to the venturi tube 200, and a piston 400 slidably disposed within the cylinder 300. The venturi tube 200 may be formed from a sufficiently rigid plastic material, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polypropylene (PP), or polycarbonate (PC). The cylinder 300 and the piston 400 may also be formed from the same material. In some embodiments, both the cylinder 300 and the piston 400 are formed from a suitable metal (or metal alloy) material.

[0039] The system 10 may additionally include a drive unit 500. The drive unit 500 is operatively (i.e., mechanically) associated with the piston 400. The system 10 also includes a resilient member 600 (such as a coil spring). The resilient member 600 is also mechanically associated with the piston 400. The system 10 also includes an elongated guide rod 700. The guide rod 700 is arranged to be surrounded by the coil spring 600.

[0040] 1, the drive unit 500 may mainly include a gear group 500a and a power supply assembly 500b, which will be described in detail herein. In this embodiment, the power supply assembly 500b includes a battery (or power source) 520, a motor 530 (or electric motor), and a switch 580 interposed therebetween. It should be noted that the battery 520 and the switch 580 are not shown in any drawings other than FIG. 1 for convenience.

[0041] 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary system for spraying and ejecting cosmetic products for transdermal delivery in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the system (such as system 1) includes a cylinder 300 and a piston 400.

[0042] In some embodiments, the cylinder 300 includes a longitudinal central axis X2, an end (proximal end) wall 310 facing the Venturi tube 200 and perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis X2, and a peripheral wall 320 extending from the end wall 310 along the longitudinal central axis X2. That is, the cylinder 300 is a hollow body with one end open. In some embodiments, the cylinder 300 is fixedly supported by a frame of the system 10 (e.g., a sub-housing (not shown) of the device 1). The cylinder 300 further includes an outlet hole 330 formed in the end wall 310. The outlet hole 330 is fluidly connected to the inlet 232 of the converging portion 230 of the Venturi tube 200. In this embodiment, the Venturi tube 200 is directly connected to the cylinder 300. As a result, the inlet 232 of the convergent section 230 of the Venturi tube 200 and the outlet hole 330 of the cylinder 300 are aligned with each other. However, it is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the inlet 232 of the convergent section 230 and the outlet hole 330 of the cylinder 300 are connected via a pipeline or conduit line.

[0043] Within the cylinder 300, the piston 400 is disposed so as to be smoothly displaceable along a longitudinal central axis X2 of the cylinder 300. The piston 400 includes a longitudinal central axis X3, an end (proximal end) wall 410 opposing an end wall 310 of the cylinder 300, and a peripheral wall 420 extending from the end wall 410 along the longitudinal central axis X3. The piston 400 may further include a rack 430 extending along the longitudinal central axis X3. In some embodiments, the rack 430 is integrally formed on an outer surface of the peripheral wall 420 of the piston 400. In particular, the rack 430 is formed over approximately half of the distal end of the peripheral wall 420. Although not shown in FIG. 2, in some embodiments, the piston 400 cooperates with the cylinder 300 to define an air intake space V within the cylinder 300 (shown in FIGS. 7A to 7D). In some embodiments, the air intake space V is in fluid communication with the inlet 232 of the convergent section 230 of the Venturi 200 through an outlet hole 330 of the cylinder 300 .

[0044] The piston 400 may further include an O-ring (packing) 440. The O-ring 440 is made of, for example, an elastomer material. The O-ring 440 is mounted in a circular groove 450 formed in the end wall 410 of the piston 400. The O-ring 440 helps maintain airtightness between the piston 400 and the inner surface of the cylinder 300. In this embodiment, the cross section of the piston 400 at the end wall where the O-ring 440 is disposed is a perfect circle. However, in some embodiments, the cross section of the piston 400 at the peripheral wall is a partial circle. This is a shape in which a portion of a circle has been cut along a line parallel to its diameter. This is to ensure a flat surface on the outer periphery of the piston for positioning the rack 430, as described above. In other embodiments, the cross section of the peripheral wall of the piston 400 may have other shapes. Although not shown, in this embodiment, the system 10 further includes a mechanism or feature for preventing the piston 400 from rotating relative to the cylinder 300.

[0045] 2, i.e., when the end wall 310 of the cylinder 300 and the end wall 410 of the piston 400 are in contact with each other, the distal end of the piston 400 may protrude somewhat from the distal end of the cylinder 300. In other words, the length of the piston 400 along the longitudinal central axis X3 may be somewhat greater than the length of the peripheral wall 320 of the cylinder 300 along the longitudinal central axis X2. Therefore, in the state shown in FIG. 2, a portion of the rack 430 integrally formed on the outer circumferential surface of the piston 400 protrudes from the distal end of the cylinder 300. In this embodiment, a linear notch 340 is formed in the peripheral wall 320 of the cylinder 300. This is for exposing at least a portion of the rack 430 of the piston 400. As described in detail herein, in some embodiments, the sector gear 510 of the drive unit 500 meshes with the rack 430 through this notch 340 in the peripheral wall 320 of the cylinder 300 .

[0046] The system 10 includes the drive unit 500 and the elastic member 600, which are mechanically associated with each other. The drive unit 500 may be configured to displace the piston 400 distally, i.e., in a direction that increases the volume of the air intake space V in the cylinder 300. The elastic member 600 may be arranged to deform in response to the displacement of the piston 400. The elastic member 600 stores elastic energy (mechanical potential energy) therein while the piston 400 is displaced distally (i.e., in a direction that increases the volume of the air intake space V). Therefore, the system 10 of this embodiment can be referred to as a "spring-loaded system." In this embodiment, the elastic member 600 is a coil spring. The coil spring is at least partially (e.g., approximately half) housed inside the hollow piston 400.

[0047] The drive unit 500 may additionally include an elastic energy release mechanism M. In this embodiment, the elastic energy release mechanism M is configured to release the elastic energy stored in the elastic member 600 at regular intervals, thereby causing the piston 400 to rush (or dash) in the proximal direction (i.e., in the direction in which the volume of the air intake space V decreases). More specifically, the drive unit 500 includes a sector gear 510. The sector gear 510 has teeth only in a specific angle range, for example, 90° to 300°. The sector gear 510 is arranged to mesh with the rack 430 of the piston 400 and linearly drive it in one direction (i.e., to the left in the figure). In this embodiment, the combination of the sector gear 510 and the rack 430 forms the elastic energy release mechanism M, which is for releasing the stored elastic energy at regular intervals. That is, the moment the last tooth of the sector gear 510 disengages from the last tooth of the rack 430, the piston 400 is released from the restraint. This causes the elastic energy stored in the elastic member 600 to be instantly released. However, another type of elastic energy release mechanism may be employed. The elastic energy stored in the elastic member 600 may be released only when desired. In some embodiments, as will be described in detail in FIGS. 7A to 7D, the thrust of the piston 400 generates vibrations (or shock waves) from the piston 400 to the Venturi tube (200).

[0048] In some embodiments, the drive unit 500 includes the power source 520 and the electric motor 530. For example, the power source 520 is a rechargeable battery such as a lithium-ion battery. In some embodiments, the electric motor 530 is electrically connected to the power source 520 and indirectly (i.e., via a power transmission gear train) rotates the sector gear 510. The power source 520, the electric motor 530, and the switch 580 interposed therebetween constitute a power source assembly 500b of the drive unit 500, as described herein. In this embodiment, the sector gear 510 is rotated in only one direction by the electric motor 530 via the gear group 500a, i.e., counterclockwise in FIG. 2. In another embodiment, the sector gear 510 may be directly driven by the electric motor 530. However, in this case, a motor with a large torque and therefore a large size is required. Therefore, it is desirable to drive the sector gear 510 via an appropriate reduction mechanism consisting of a gear train, as illustrated herein.

[0049] The drive unit 500 may further include a latch 570 that engages with the spur gear 560. In some embodiments, the latch 570 is arranged to restrict the rotational direction of the spur gear 560. As a result, the spur gear 560 rotates only in one direction (i.e., clockwise in FIG. 2). In another embodiment, the latch 570 engages with any gear other than the spur gear 560. In some embodiments, the drive unit 500 does not include the latch 570.

[0050] In some embodiments, the system 10 additionally includes an elongated spring guide rod 700. The spring guide rod 700 is arranged to be surrounded by the coil spring 600. In this embodiment, a proximal end 710 of the guide rod 700 is supported by a frame (not shown, i.e., a sub-housing of the device 1) of the system 10. In another embodiment, the spring guide rod 700 may be supported by the housing 20 of the device 1 itself. The spring guide rod 700 is arranged to at least partially enter the piston 400 when the piston 400 is displaced distally (i.e., in a direction in which the volume of the air intake space V increases).

[0051] 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the Venturi tube in the exemplary system shown in FIG. 2 in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the system 10 includes the tank 100 for holding cosmetic (or liquid) L. In this embodiment, the tank 100 is removably connected to the Venturi tube 200 in a liquid-tight manner. The connection is by threading (see FIG. 3).

[0052] In some embodiments, the tank 100 has a flange 110 on its open side. The Venturi tube 200 may also have a flange 260 that corresponds to the flange 110 of the tank 100. In some embodiments, the tank 100 is disposed above the Venturi tube 200, with the flange 110 in contact with the flange 260 of the Venturi tube 200. This arrangement is particularly preferred because gravity promotes the supply of cosmetic L into the Venturi tube 200 during operation of the system 10. However, the orientation of the tank 100 with respect to the Venturi tube 200 is not limited thereto and can be changed as needed.

[0053] In some embodiments, the Venturi tube 200 includes a central longitudinal axis X1 and an internal passageway 210 extending continuously along the central longitudinal axis X1. In some embodiments, the internal passageway 210 is fluidly connected to the tank 100 via an orifice 220 defined in the Venturi tube 200. As shown in FIG. 3 , the internal passageway 210 may include a converging section 230, a diverging section 240, and a throat section 250, which are continuously connected along the central longitudinal axis X1. The throat section 250 may be located between the converging section 230 and the diverging section 240. In some embodiments, the tank 100 is fluidly connected to the throat section 250 of the Venturi tube 200 via the orifice 220, as described above. The inner diameter of the orifice 220 may be configured such that when the pressure inside the Venturi tube 200 is equal to atmospheric pressure, the cosmetic L does not fall naturally inside the Venturi tube 200 due to the viscosity of the cosmetic L.

[0054] In some embodiments, the convergent section 230 has an inlet 232 and an outlet 234 located at opposite ends thereof. The throat section 250 also has an inlet 252 and an outlet 254 located at opposite ends thereof. Furthermore, the divergent section 240 has an inlet 242 and an outlet 244 located at opposite ends thereof. The outlet 234 of the convergent section 230 and the inlet 252 of the throat section 250 smoothly and continuously connect to each other. Similarly, the outlet 254 of the throat section 250 and the inlet 242 of the divergent section 240 smoothly and continuously connect to each other. In some embodiments, the inner diameter D3 of the throat section 250 is constant. In some embodiments, the inner diameter (minimum inner diameter) D4 of the outlet 234 of the convergent section 230 is the same as the inner diameter D3 of the throat section 250. The inner diameter (minimum inner diameter) D5 of the inlet 242 of the diverging section 240 is also the same as the inner diameter D3 of the throat section 250. In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the converging section 230 decreases monotonically (linearly) toward the throat section 250, while the inner diameter of the diverging section 240 increases monotonically (linearly) away from the throat section 250. However, the inner diameters of the converging and diverging sections 230, 240 may decrease and increase, respectively, in a curvilinear fashion.

[0055] In some embodiments, the ratio of the maximum inner diameter D1 of the converging section 230 (i.e., the inner diameter of the inlet 232), the inner diameter D3 of the throat section 250, and the maximum inner diameter D2 of the diverging section 240 (i.e., the inner diameter of the outlet 244), i.e., D1:D3:D2, is 1:0.1-0.7:1-1.5, based on the maximum inner diameter D1 of the converging section 230. However, this ratio is merely an example, and various other ratios may be employed as needed.

[0056] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of various gears forming a drive force transmission mechanism in the drive unit 500 of the exemplary system shown in FIG. 2 according to the present technology. In some embodiments, the drive unit 500 includes a gear group 500a. In some embodiments, a gear train including the speed reduction mechanism of the drive unit 500, i.e., the gear group 500a of the drive unit 500, is disclosed herein. The gear group 500a of the drive unit 500 may include a pinion 540. The pinion 540 (e.g., a bevel gear type, a worm gear type, a spur gear type, etc.) is fixedly coupled to the output shaft 532 of the electric motor 530. Furthermore, the gear group 500a of the drive unit 500 may further include two types of gears 550 and 560, which transmit the rotational motion of the pinion 540 to the sector gear 510 to rotate it. In such embodiments, the gears 550, 560, as well as the sector gear 510, are rotatably supported by the frame of the system 10 (not shown, i.e., a sub-housing of the device 1). In such embodiments, the electric motor 530 is fixedly supported by the frame (not shown) of the system 10. As such, the pinion 540 is also rotatably supported by the frame (not shown) of the system 10. In another embodiment, the gears 510, 550, and 560 may be rotatably supported by the housing 20 of the device 1 itself. In some embodiments, the gear 550, which meshes with the pinion 540, is a bevel gear. In other embodiments, the gear 560, which meshes with both the bevel gear 550 and the sector gear 510, is a spur gear.

[0057] In other embodiments, the spur gear 560 functions as an intermediate gear. In such embodiments, both the sector gear 510 and the bevel gear 550 have a structure in which two types of gear portions are stacked along the direction of the rotation axis. The sector gear 510 may include a first portion 512. The first portion 512 has teeth only within a specific angular range along its root circle. Furthermore, the sector gear 510 may include a second portion 514 integrally connected to the first portion 512. In some embodiments, the second portion 514, i.e., the spur gear portion, of the sector gear 510 has teeth along the entire circumference of its root circle. In some embodiments, the tip diameter of the second portion 514 is smaller than that of the first portion 512.

[0058] In some embodiments, the bevel gear 550 also includes a first portion 552 and a second portion 554. The first portion 552 includes a row of teeth arranged circumferentially on a conical surface. The second portion 554 is integrally connected to the first portion 552 and includes a spur gear having a diameter smaller than the minimum diameter of the first portion 552. In some embodiments, the pinion 540, which is fixedly attached to the output shaft 532 of the electric motor 530, meshes with the first portion 552 of the bevel gear 550. The second portion 554 of the bevel gear 550, which rotates integrally therewith, meshes with the spur gear 560. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the spur gear 560 meshes with the second portion 514 of the sector gear 510.

[0059] As a result, during operation, the high speed rotation of the pinion 540 causes the sector gear 510 to rotate at a predetermined lower speed, e.g., a few revolutions per second. The piston 400 is displaced distally at regular intervals by the resulting rotation of the sector gear 510. In this embodiment, the number of teeth on the rack 430 of the piston 400 is approximately equal to the number of teeth on the first portion 512 of the sector gear 510. However, the present technology is not limited thereto.

[0060] 5 is an exemplary device 10 in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the device 10 includes a housing 20, a piston 400, a venturi tube 200, a damper 800, a silencer 900, and a tip 270. It should be understood that the venturi tube 200 and the tip 270 may be collectively referred to as a nozzle 910. In some embodiments, the nozzle 910 also includes the damper 800 and the silencer 900. While FIG. 5 shows the device 10 including a housing 20, it should be understood that the device need not include a housing 20.

[0061] In some embodiments, the apparatus 10 includes a damper 800. The damper 800 is configured to reduce vibrations generated by the piston 400, as depicted in FIGS. 7A-7D. In some embodiments, the damper 800 is a bellows-shaped 800, as depicted in FIG. 5. However, it should be understood that the damper may take any number of forms, including, but not limited to, a resilient spring, a sponge, an air cushion, a rubber cushion, an air cylinder damper, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the damper 800 is made of an elastomer. In some embodiments, the damper is made of rubber, nitrile rubber, fluororubber, silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), polyurethane, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the damper is positioned between the venturi tube 200 and the tip 270 of the nozzle 910. In some embodiments, the damper may be positioned elsewhere on the apparatus 10, including, but not limited to, the tip 270 and between the venturi tube 200 and the housing 20. In some embodiments, the elastomer has a hardness of about 20-70 Shore A. In some embodiments, the elastomer has a hardness of about 30-60 Shore A. In operation, the damper absorbs vibrations generated by the piston as it lunges forward. This is explained in further detail in Figures 7A-7D.

[0062] Figure 6 is an enlarged nozzle 910 of the exemplary device 10 shown in Figure 5 in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the device 10 includes a housing 20, a piston 400, a nozzle 910 (including a venturi tube 200 and a tip 270), an elastomer 800, and a silencer 900. The arrows in Figure 6 indicate how vibrations (shock waves) propagate throughout the device as the piston lunges forward. The piston lunges in a direction that reduces the volume of the air intake space in the cylinder. This is shown in more detail in Figures 7A-7D.

[0063] 7A-7D are diagrams illustrating the operation of the exemplary device 10 shown in FIG. 5 in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the device includes a housing 20, a drive unit 500, a piston 400, a nozzle 910, and an elongated guide rod 700. The drive unit 500 may include any number of gears, as shown in FIG. 4. The nozzle 910 includes a venturi tube 200 and a damper 800. It should be understood that a resilient member (such as resilient member 600) may also be included in the device 10, but is omitted here for clarity.

[0064] It should be understood that in each of Figures 7A-7D, a tank (such as tank 100 in Figures 2 and 3) may be attached to the Venturi tube 200 as shown in Figures 2 and 3. In operation, the tank is filled with the cosmetic product. In some embodiments, the tank is fluidly connected to the nozzle 910. The nozzle 910 includes the Venturi tube 200. In some embodiments, the tank is connected to the nozzle 910. This connection is made through an internal passage of the Venturi tube 200 (see Figure 3) via an orifice defined in the Venturi tube 200.

[0065] In Figure 7A, the piston 400 is displaced in a direction that increases the volume of the air intake space within the cylinder, as indicated by the arrow in Figure 7A. In some embodiments, the air intake space is defined between the piston 400 and an end wall of the cylinder. An outlet hole formed in the end wall of the cylinder is fluidly connected to the inlet of the converging section of the Venturi tube 200.

[0066] As shown in Figure 7B, while the piston is displaced in a direction that increases the volume of the air intake space, an elastic member (such as elastic member 600 in Figure 2) deforms in response to the displacement of the piston and stores elastic energy therein. In some embodiments, the elastic member is a spring.

[0067] In Figure 7C, the elastic energy stored in the elastic member is released. This causes the piston 400 to move forward in a direction that reduces the volume of the air intake space. This further causes vibration from the piston to the Venturi tube. The arrow indicates the direction of the vibration, while the burst shape indicates the impact of the piston 400. It should be understood that as the piston 400 moves forward, the cosmetic is sprayed and ejected to the outside. The cosmetic is supplied from the tank to the internal passage of the Venturi tube. This spraying and ejection is achieved by air being forced out of the cylinder through the outlet hole in the end wall of the cylinder as the piston 400 moves forward. The vibration is reduced by the damper 800, which is disposed between the Venturi tube 200 and the tip of the nozzle 910.

[0068] In FIG. 7D, the piston 400 returns to its initial position and the process begins again. In some embodiments, a user can determine when the device 10 sprays and dispenses cosmetic product. This can be done via an actuator on the device or via an application communicatively coupled to the device 10. In some embodiments, the user can manually determine when the device 10 sprays and dispenses cosmetic product. For example, this can be done via a trigger or slide wheel on the device. In some embodiments, a single actuation of an actuator causes the device 10 to continue transitioning through the states shown in FIGS. 7A-7D until the actuator is actuated a second time.

[0069] 8 is an exemplary kit 2000 in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the device 10 is part of a larger kit 2000.

[0070] In some embodiments, the nozzle 910A is the first nozzle. In some embodiments, the kit 2000 includes multiple nozzles 910A, 910B, and 910C. In some embodiments, each nozzle 910 includes a venturi, a tip, a damper, and a silencer. In some embodiments, some nozzles 910 may include the damper and silencer, while others may not. In some embodiments, the nozzles 910A, 910B, and 910C have different sizes. In such embodiments, each nozzle of the multiple nozzles 910A, 910B, and 910C is configured to dispense a different cosmetic product. In some embodiments, each nozzle of the multiple nozzles 910A, 910B, and 910C is a replacement for another nozzle. In these embodiments, each nozzle 910 is the same size. In some embodiments, the outlets of each nozzle of the multiple nozzles 910A, 910B, and 910C have different sizes. This is to better dispense different cosmetic products of different consistencies or viscosities.

[0071] In some embodiments, each nozzle of the plurality of nozzles 910A, 910B, 910C is disposable, but in other embodiments, each nozzle of the plurality of nozzles 910A, 910B, 910C is reusable. [Example]

[0072] The device (shown in FIG. 5) having both the damper 800 and the silencer 900 was tested to determine whether and to what extent the vibrations (or shock waves) were reduced.

[0073] FIG. 9 illustrates a load cell for measuring vibrations of a device in accordance with the present technology.

[0074] To test this, a test apparatus was prepared. The test apparatus includes a holder 1010, a bracket 1020, and a base plate 1045. The test apparatus also includes a load cell plate 1025, a first load cell stopper 1030, and a second stopper 1040. A load cell 1035 is positioned below the load cell plate and above the base plate 1045. The apparatus 1000 described herein is placed on the test apparatus as shown in FIG. 9. The impact energy (or vibration) of the apparatus 1000 is measured by the test apparatus. The measurements were performed during continuous piston movement. Measurements were taken both without the damper 800 and silencer 900 (FIG. 10A) and with the damper 800 and silencer 900 (FIG. 10B).

[0075] FIG. 10A is a graph showing the vibration of the device without the damper according to the present technology. The horizontal axis is the number of readings of the load cell / sensor. 100 means 100 readings, which corresponds to approximately 15 pulse readings per second. The vertical axis is force in grams-force (gf). Each spike represents a forward thrust of the piston, as illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7D. The dashed vertical line labeled "57" indicates where 57 gf is for each piston thrust.

[0076] As shown in Figure 10A, without the damper, the average force was 57 gf. Furthermore, the device 1000 was exerting a force on the load cell even when the piston was not actively lunging forward.

[0077] FIG. 10B is a graph showing the reduced vibration of the device when the damper is used in accordance with the present technology. The horizontal axis is the number of readings of the load cell / sensor. 100 means 100 readings, which corresponds to approximately 15 pulse readings per second. The vertical axis is force in grams-force (gf). Each spike represents a forward thrust of the piston, as illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7D. The dashed vertical line labeled "15" indicates where 15 gf is for each piston thrust.

[0078] As shown in Figure 10B, when the damper was attached to the device, the force (or vibration) of the device was significantly reduced. The average force of the device with the damper was only 15 gf. In addition, when the piston was not lunging forward, the overall vibration or force of the device was also reduced.

[0079] FIG. 11 is an exemplary method of spraying and spraying cosmetic products for transdermal delivery according to the present technology.

[0080] At block 1100, the tank is filled with a cosmetic product. In some embodiments, the cosmetic product is a liquid. In some embodiments, the cosmetic product is a cosmetic composition. In some embodiments, the cosmetic product is a liquid lotion.

[0081] In block 1110, the piston is displaced within the cylinder in a direction that increases the volume of the air intake space within the cylinder.

[0082] At block 1120, the elastic member is deformed in response to displacement of the piston. In some embodiments, the elastic member stores elastic energy as it is deformed. In some embodiments, the elastic member is a spring. In such embodiments, the spring is compressed in response to the piston being displaced.

[0083] In block 1130, the elastic energy stored in the elastic member is released. In some embodiments, the piston lunges forward in response to the elastic energy. The direction of the lunge is a direction that decreases the volume of the air intake space. When the piston lunges forward, in some embodiments, vibrations (or shock waves) are induced from the piston to the Venturi tube.

[0084] At block 1140, the cosmetic product is sprayed from the reservoir into the interior passage of the venturi tube and ejected through the exit orifice. In some embodiments, the sprayed cosmetic product is ejected onto the skin or hair of a user.

[0085] In block 1150, the vibration from the piston to the Venturi (or the nozzle) is reduced by the damper on the nozzle. This is done as described herein. As the Venturi moves in response to the forward thrust of the piston, the damper absorbs at least a portion of the vibration. In some embodiments, this improves the user experience by minimizing discomfort when the nozzle contacts the user's skin, face, or hair. In some embodiments, the vibration is reduced to a force of approximately 0-20 gf.

[0086] Optionally, at block 1160, the vibrations are further reduced by the silencer as described herein. In some embodiments, the silencer further enhances the user experience by minimizing user discomfort.

[0087] The order of some or all of the blocks in the above method should not be considered limiting. Rather, one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure will understand that some of the blocks may be performed in various orders not shown, or even in parallel.

[0088] The detailed description set forth above in connection with the accompanying drawings is intended as a description of various embodiments of the present disclosure. In the drawings, like numerals refer to like elements, and the above description is not intended to represent the only embodiment. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is provided merely as an example or illustration and should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise form disclosed above. Likewise, any step described herein may be interchangeable with other steps or combinations of steps to achieve the same or substantially similar results. In general, the embodiments disclosed herein are non-limiting, and the inventors contemplate other embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure. These other embodiments may incorporate structure and functionality from more than one of the specific embodiments shown in the drawings and described in the specification.

[0089] In the above description, specific details are set forth. This is for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments disclosed herein may be practiced without embodying all of the specific details. In some cases, well-known process steps have not been described in detail in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring various aspects of the present disclosure. Furthermore, it will be understood that embodiments of the present disclosure may employ any combination of the features described herein.

[0090] This application may include references to directions, such as, for example, "vertical," "horizontal," "front," "back," "left," "right," "top," and "bottom." These references, and other similar references herein, are intended to aid in describing and understanding particular embodiments (e.g., when the embodiments are positioned for use), and are not intended to limit the disclosure to these directions or locations.

[0091] The present application may also refer to amounts and numbers. Unless specifically stated, such amounts and numbers should not be considered limiting. Rather, they are exemplary of possible amounts or numbers relevant to the present application. In this regard, the present application may also use the term "plurality" to refer to an amount or number. In this regard, the term "plurality" is intended to mean any number greater than 1, e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, etc. Terms such as "about," "approximately," and the like, mean plus or minus 5% of the stated value. The term "based upon" means "based at least partially upon."

[0092] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of the present disclosure have been explained in the foregoing description. However, the aspects of the present disclosure that are intended to be protected should not be construed as being limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Moreover, the embodiments described herein should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. It will be understood that variations and modifications may be made by others, and equivalents may be employed. These may be made without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such variations, modifications, and equivalents be included within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as claimed.

Claims

1. 1. A system for spraying and propelling cosmetic products for transdermal delivery, comprising: a reservoir configured to hold the cosmetic product; a nozzle fluidly connected to the tank, the nozzle comprising a tip and a venturi tube, the venturi tube having a central longitudinal axis and an internal passageway extending along the central longitudinal axis, the internal passageway fluidly connected to the tank through an orifice defined in the venturi tube, the internal passageway comprising a converging portion, a diverging portion, and a throat portion located between the converging portion and the diverging portion; a cylinder having a central longitudinal axis, an end wall perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis, a peripheral wall extending from the end wall along the central longitudinal axis, and an exit hole formed in the end wall, the exit hole fluidly connected to an inlet of the converging section of the Venturi tube; a piston disposed within the cylinder and configured to be displaceable within the cylinder along a longitudinal central axis thereof, the piston defining an air intake space within the cylinder; and a drive unit configured to displace the piston in a direction that increases the volume of the air intake space in the cylinder; an elastic member configured to deform in response to displacement of the piston and store elastic energy therein while the piston is displacing in a direction in which the volume of the air intake space increases, the drive unit comprising an elastic energy release mechanism that releases the elastic energy stored in the elastic member, thereby causing the piston to move in a direction in which the volume of the air intake space decreases, and causing vibration from the piston to the Venturi tube; a damper disposed on the nozzle between the venturi and the tip, the damper configured to reduce the vibration; and A system comprising:

2. 10. The system of claim 1, The damper is selected from the group consisting of an elastic spring, a sponge, an air cushion, a rubber cushion, a bellows, an air cylinder damper, and combinations thereof. system.

3. 10. The system of claim 1, The damper comprises an elastomer selected from the group consisting of rubber, nitrile rubber, fluororubber, silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), polyurethane, and combinations thereof. system.

4. 4. The system of claim 3, the elastomer having a hardness of about 20 to 70 Shore A; system.

5. 4. The system of claim 3, the elastomer has a hardness of about 30 to 60 Shore A; system.

6. 10. The system of claim 1, a silencer disposed between the damper and the tip and configured to further reduce the vibrations. system.

7. 7. The system of claim 6, The vibration is reduced to a force of about 0 to 20 gf. system.

8. 10. The system of claim 1, The piston has a longitudinal central axis, an end wall opposite to the end wall of the cylinder, and a peripheral wall extending from the end wall along the longitudinal central axis, a rack extending along the longitudinal axis is formed on an outer surface of the peripheral wall of the piston; the drive unit includes a sector gear having teeth only in a specific angle range and meshing with the rack of the piston to linearly drive the piston; The combination of the sector gear and the rack forms the elastic energy release mechanism. system.

9. 9. The system of claim 8, the drive unit further comprises a power source and an electric motor electrically connected to the power source and configured to directly or indirectly drive the sector gear in rotation; system.

10. 10. The system of claim 1, the elastic member is a coil spring at least partially housed within the piston; system.

11. 10. The system of claim 1, the tank is fluidly connected to the throat of the Venturi tube; system.

12. 10. The system of claim 1, The cosmetic product is a cosmetic product for aesthetic purposes. system.

13. 1. A device for transdermal delivery of an atomized cosmetic product, comprising:

10. A system according to claim 1, comprising: a housing that at least partially houses the system; Device.

14. 1. A kit for transdermal delivery of an atomized cosmetic product, comprising:

14. The apparatus of claim 13, comprising a plurality of nozzles, the nozzle is a first nozzle of the plurality of nozzles; The plurality of nozzles are configured to be connectable to the device. kit.

15. 15. The kit of claim 14, each nozzle of the plurality of nozzles having an exit aperture that is different in size from another nozzle of the plurality of nozzles; kit.

16. 15. The kit of claim 14, each nozzle of the plurality of nozzles configured to dispense a different cosmetic product; kit.

17. 15. The kit of claim 14, the plurality of nozzles are disposable; kit.

18. 1. A method for spraying and propelling a cosmetic product for transdermal delivery, comprising: filling a reservoir with the cosmetic product, the reservoir being fluidly connected to a nozzle having a tip and a venturi tube, the connection being made to an internal passage of the venturi tube through an orifice defined in the venturi tube, the internal passage having a converging section, a diverging section, and a throat section located between the converging section and the diverging section; displacing a piston within a cylinder in a direction that increases the volume of an air intake space within the cylinder, the air intake space being defined between the piston and an end wall of the cylinder, an outlet hole formed in the end wall of the cylinder being fluidly connected to an inlet of the converging section of the Venturi tube; a step of deforming an elastic member disposed so as to deform in response to the displacement of the piston and store elastic energy therein while the piston is displacing in a direction that increases the volume of the air intake space; releasing the elastic energy stored in the elastic member, thereby causing the piston to move in a direction that reduces the volume of the air intake space, and further causing vibration from the piston to the Venturi tube; A step of atomizing the cosmetic supplied from the tank to the internal passage of the Venturi tube and spraying it to the outside by air forced out of the cylinder through the outlet hole in the end wall of the cylinder as the piston moves forward; damping the vibrations with a damper disposed between the Venturi tube and the tip of the nozzle; A method comprising:

19. 20. The method of claim 18, further reducing the vibrations using a silencer disposed between the damper and the tip of the nozzle. method.

20. 20. The method of claim 19, The vibration is reduced to a force of about 0 to 20 gf. method.

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