Eyelash extensions and method for manufacturing the same

Abstract

A method of manufacturing an eyelash extension system includes providing a set of eyelash extensions on a stage, the eyelash extension system having eyelash filaments extending from an outer-facing surface of an eyelash support strip, and using a pressure plate to press an adhesive element from a tape assembly onto the inner-facing surface of the eyelash support strip. The eyelash extension system includes an eyelash support strip having an outer-facing surface and an inner-facing surface, and an adhesive element secured to the inner-facing surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Priority Claim This application claims priority based on currently pending U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 084,916, filed on September 29, 2020. The content thereof is incorporated by reference.

[0002] Field of the Invention The field of the present invention is an eyelash extension system and a method for manufacturing the same, and more particularly, but not limited to, artificial eyelashes having pre-applied adhesive elements.

Background Art

[0003] Artificial eyelash extension systems are well-known products used to improve the appearance of a user's natural eyelash line by adding length and / or volume to the eyelashes. Such artificial eyelash extension systems typically include an eyelash line support strip from which eyelash filaments extend. The filaments can be made from mink, synthetic materials, horsehair, and in some cases human hair. Artificial eyelash extension systems are usually applied by applying an adhesive to or near the eyelash line support strip of the eyelash extension system and pressing the eyelash line support strip against the user's eyelash line or near it. Standard eyelash extension systems can be difficult to apply and require the user to have both the extension system and a specialized adhesive for using them on hand.

[0004] More recently, DIY lower lash extension systems have been developed. In these systems, the lash extension system is glued (adhered) to the underside of the user's natural lashes, similar to more traditional upper lash extension systems. DIY systems are often divided into small sections, allowing inexperienced users to apply the lash extension system without the difficulty of aligning a longer single strip of the lash extension system. However, these DIY systems still require the user to apply a special adhesive to their lashes or the lash extension system before use.

[0005] There is a need in this technological field for eyelash extension systems that overcome the limitations of conventional systems. Manufacturing methods for producing these eyelash extension systems are also required. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] The objective of the present invention is to create an eyelash extension system that overcomes many of the shortcomings of the prior art. A feature of the present invention is that the eyelash extension system has pre-applied adhesive elements. An advantage of the present invention is that the eyelash extension system can be used immediately without applying additional adhesive.

[0007] A further object of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing a ready-to-use eyelash extension system having a pre-applied adhesive. A feature of the present invention is the use of a monolith extending from a platform to hold the bare eyelash extension system in place while it receives the adhesive. The advantage of the present invention is that the manufacturing method of the present invention allows the delicate adhesive to be applied to the delicate eyelash extension system without damaging either of them.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing a ready-to-use eyelash extension system using double-sided tape or a similar adhesive element as a pre-applied adhesive. A feature of the present invention is the use of an adhesive element having a notch along the length of the adhesive. The advantage of the present invention is that the notch provides the ability to apply double-sided tape or a similar adhesive element to a bare eyelash extension system without the tape twisting, tangling, or introducing air bubbles.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing a ready-to-use eyelash extension system using pre-glue as a pre-applied adhesive. A feature of the present invention is the use of a release coating to allow the eyelash extension system to be easily removed from the assembly. The advantages of the present invention are that it reduces the thickness of the eyelash assembly and eliminates the risk of the adhesive tape twisting, tangling, or becoming contaminated with air bubbles. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] The present invention provides a method for manufacturing an eyelash extension system, comprising the steps of: providing the eyelash extension system on a stage, the eyelash extension system comprising eyelash filaments extending from an outer surface of an eyelash support strip; and using a pressing plate, pressing adhesive elements from a tape assembly onto an inner surface of the eyelash support strip.

[0011] An eyelash extension system is also provided, comprising an eyelash support strip having an outward-facing surface and an inward-facing surface, and an adhesive element fixed to the inward-facing surface.

[0012] A method for manufacturing an eyelash extension system is also provided, comprising the steps of: providing one or more eyelash extension systems on a stage, the eyelash extension system comprising eyelash filaments extending from an outward-facing surface of an eyelash support strip; and attaching adhesive elements from a pre-glue assembly to an inward-facing surface of the eyelash support strip by using a pressing plate and / or a plurality of retaining members. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] The present invention, along with the above and other subjects and advantages, will be best understood from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0014] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an eyelash extension system having pre-attached adhesive elements, as described in the present invention. [Figure 2A] Figure 2A is a perspective view of an adhesive element having a notch, as described in the present invention. [Figure 2B] Figure 2B is a plan view of an alternative adhesive element having a notch, as described in the present invention. [Figure 2C(a)] Figure 2C(a) is a plan view of an alternative adhesive element having a notch, as described in the present invention. [Figure 2C(b)] Figure 2C(b) is a plan view of an alternative adhesive element having a notch, as described in the present invention. [Figure 2C(c)] Figure 2C(c) is a plan view of an alternative adhesive element having a notch, as described in the present invention. [Figure 2C(d)] Figure 2C(d) is a plan view of an alternative adhesive element having a notch, as described in the present invention. [Figure 2C(e)] Figure 2C(e) is a plan view of an alternative adhesive element having a notch, as described in the present invention. [Figure 2C(f)] Figure 2C(f) is a plan view of an alternative adhesive element having a notch, as described in the present invention. [Figure 2C(g)] Figure 2C(g) is a plan view of an alternative adhesive element having a notch, according to a feature of the present invention. [Figure 2C(h)] Figure 2C(h) is a plan view of an alternative adhesive element having a notch, according to a feature of the present invention. [Figure 2C(i)] Figure 2C(i) is a plan view of an alternative adhesive element having a notch, according to a feature of the present invention. [Figure 2D] Figure 2D is a plan view of an alternative adhesive element having a notch, according to a feature of the present invention. [Figure 2E] Figure 2E is a plan view of an alternative adhesive element having a notch, according to a feature of the present invention. [Figure 2F] Figure 2F is a plan view of an alternative adhesive element having a notch, according to a feature of the present invention. [Figure 2G] Figure 2G is a plan view of an alternative adhesive element having a notch, according to a feature of the present invention. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is an exploded view of manufacturing equipment for manufacturing an eyelash extension system having a pre-applied adhesive tape, according to a feature of the present invention. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a detailed view of a stage for receiving and stabilizing an eyelash extension system for receiving an adhesive, according to a feature of the present invention. [Figure 5A] Figure 5A is a cross-sectional view of an eyelash extension system engaged with a stage for receiving, according to a feature of the present invention. [Figure 5B] Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view of an eyelash extension system engaged with a stage for receiving, according to a feature of the present invention. [Figure 5C] Figure 5C is a cross-sectional view of an eyelash extension system engaged with a stage for receiving, according to a feature of the present invention. [Figure 6A] Figure 6A is a detailed view of an assembly used to apply an adhesive to an eyelash extension system, according to a feature of the present invention. [Figure 6B]Figure 6B is a detailed view of an assembly used to apply adhesive to an eyelash extension system, as described in the features of the present invention. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a detailed view of a pressing assembly used to press adhesive into an eyelash extension system, as described in the present invention. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a completed eyelash extension system having a pre-applied adhesive, manufactured according to the features of the present invention. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of a method for manufacturing adhesive elements according to the features of the present invention. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is an exploded view of a manufacturing facility for producing an eyelash extension system having a pre-applied pre-glue adhesive, as described in the present invention. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a front view of the pre-glue assembly. [Figure 12A] Figure 12A is a front view of an eyelash extension system and pre-glue assembly completed using the pre-glue manufacturing method. [Figure 12B] Figure 12B is a cross-sectional view of an eyelash extension system and pre-glue assembly completed using the pre-glue manufacturing method. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0015] In various embodiments, the present invention provides an eyelash extension system that can be applied immediately. This eyelash extension system includes eyelash filaments extending from an eyelash support strip, the eyelash support strip characterized by adhesive elements positioned on the eyelash support strip for attachment to the user's eyelids and / or natural eyelashes.

[0016] The present invention also provides a method for manufacturing an eyelash extension system that can be applied immediately. This manufacturing method includes the steps of providing eyelash extensions onto a retaining assembly and pressing an adhesive onto the eyelash extension system.

[0017] The above summary and the following detailed description of specific embodiments of the present invention will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0018] In this specification, elements or processes listed in the singular and preceded by the word "a" or "an" should be understood not to exclude multiple such elements or processes unless it is expressly stated that multiple such elements or processes are excluded. Furthermore, references to "one embodiment" of the present invention are not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the listed features. Moreover, unless expressly stated that they are not included, embodiments that "include" or "have" elements or multiple elements having a particular characteristic may include additional such elements that do not have that characteristic. In this specification, the terms "lash," "artificial eyelash," and "eyelash" are interchangeable and refer to devices that are not part of the wearer's body unless otherwise specified (for example, terms such as "natural eyelash" or "user's eyelash" refer to a part of the wearer's body).

[0019] Details of the extension system Referring to the drawings, Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an assembled eyelash extension system 10. This eyelash extension system includes an eyelash support strip 12 extending along the longitudinal axis α, the eyelash support strip 12 having a length L and a width W (width W is one representation and is not drawn to scale and may be narrower). The eyelash support strip can be straight or curved to adapt to the user's eyelid. The support strip may be made by using a filament or string material and applying glue thereon, or simply by gluing without the filament or string material. The eyelash filaments 14 extend from the first outer (lateral) facing surface 16 of the eyelash support strip 12 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the eyelash support strip 12. Figure 1 shows an eyelash extension system having discrete filaments 14 spaced apart along the longitudinal axis of an eyelash support strip 12. This is illustrative and not limited to the system. Those skilled in the art will understand that many eyelash extension systems having various arrangements of eyelash filaments are known. For example, such a system may feature clusters of filaments that extend in different directions and intersect each other, but are still substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the eyelash support strip 12. Furthermore, the protruding portions 18 of the eyelash filaments 14 from the eyelash support strip may all be of uniform length or of varying lengths.

[0020] The eyelash support strip described above also features a second inward-facing surface 20 that faces the user when the eyelash extension system is in use, as shown in Figure 1. This second surface 20 is concave to cover a portion of the user's eyelid. As shown in Figure 1, the adhesive element 22 is positioned on the second surface 20 of the eyelash support strip 12 and extends along its longitudinal axis β, which is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis α of the eyelash support strip 12. The first (outward-facing) surface 16 and the second (inward-facing) surface 20 may be flat (e.g., like the surface of tape) or curved (e.g., like the surface of a wire with a circular cross-section), depending on the shape of the support strip used.

[0021] Figure 2A shows a plan view of an exemplary adhesive element 22. The adhesive element 22 is an elongated substrate 24 characterized by a first surface 26 and a second surface 28. The adhesive element also has a thickness (not shown). Adhesive is placed on the first surface 26 and the second surface 28 of the elongated substrate, respectively. The adhesive placed on the first surface 26 may be different from the adhesive placed on the second surface 28. The length and width of the adhesive element can be adjusted to fit any eyelash support strip. A typical adhesive element tape has a length of about 25 mm to about 35 mm and a typical width of about 1 mm or less. The adhesive elements may have shorter lengths depending on the specific style of the eyelash extension system, such as a smaller “wisp” eyelash extension system (e.g., KISS Falscara Eyelash from Kiss Products, Inc. in Port Washington, New York), which is a segmented version of a full-strip eyelash extension system, with its support strip length being half to one-fifth of that of the full-strip system. The thickness of the adhesive element tape may be 0.5mm to 0.8mm, preferably 0.6mm to 0.7mm, but it may also be thinner.

[0022] A notable feature of the present invention is the use of flat, thin adhesive elements, such as flat tapes. Prior art eyelash extension systems utilize bulky adhesive elements, such as various tapes, which utilize non-flat cores coated with adhesive. The use of flat adhesive elements in the present invention allows for the use of adhesive elements having a very narrow width (e.g., less than 1 mm as described above). This is because either surface 26, 28 of the adhesive element can be completely coated with adhesive, providing a large surface area for strong adhesion to the desired surface (i.e., the user's eyelashes or the user's eyelids). Conventional methods using bulky tapes cannot rely on the surface area of ​​their adhesive elements to obtain a strong bond between the adhesive and the eyelash extension or between the adhesive and the user's eyelids.

[0023] In one embodiment of the present invention, the adhesive element is sufficiently thin and flat and can be used without the notches shown and discussed below. Suitable materials for the adhesive tape include acrylic, urethane, rubber, and silicone. In another embodiment, the adhesive element has a flat second (user-facing) surface 28 while allowing the curved first surface 26 to adapt to the shape of the eyelash support strip 12.

[0024] Suitable adhesives for use in the present invention include any pressure-sensitive adhesive that can be applied to the adhesive element and maintain its tackiness while the eyelash extension system 10 is stored in packaging. The eyelash-side adhesive, placed on the first surface 26 of the elongated substrate, has adhesive force to the second surface 20 of the eyelash support strip, which maintains contact between the adhesive element and the eyelash support strip throughout the manufacture, packaging, storage, and use of the eyelash extension system of the present invention. The adhesive should have excellent pressure-sensitive adhesion to plastics, particularly polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which are the main components of the artificial eyelash extension system, and good elasticity between the final combination for ease of application to the curved eyelash extension system. When placed on the first surface 26, the adhesive preferably has a thickness of 0.05 mm to 0.4 mm. Suitable components for this adhesive include optimized acrylic, rubber, urethane, silicone copolymers, stabilizers, dispersants, plasticizers, and solvents.

[0025] The skin-side adhesive, positioned on the second surface 28 of the elongated substrate, preferably adheres less strongly to the contacting surface or object than the adhesive on the first surface 26 of the elongated substrate, although similar or identical adhesive strength is also acceptable. The adhesive, preferably, lasts for several hours (e.g., 10-12 hours) once applied to the user's skin or eyelashes, can be reused multiple times (e.g., 10 times) after removal, and is harmless to the human body. This characteristic allows for the manufacture of the eyelash extension system of the present invention, the use of a temporary backing covering the adhesive elements prior to use by the user, and the easy removal of the eyelash extension system from the user's eyelids after use. Suitable adhesives include those based on one or more materials such as acrylic, rubber, silicone, polyester, and urethane. To achieve the desired properties, the pressure-sensitive adhesive binder may use appropriate additives such as crosslinking agents, curing agents, tackifying resins, plasticizers, pigments, dyes, fillers, anti-aging agents, conductive agents, antistatic agents, UV absorbers, light stabilizers, release modifiers, softeners, surfactants, flame retardants, or antioxidants.

[0026] The skin-side adhesive generally comprises a binder mixed with one or more preferred adhesives, such as those described above. In one embodiment, the skin-side adhesive comprises, by weight, 50-80% binder, 1-20% crosslinking agent, 1-20% tackifier, 1-10% plasticizer, 1-5% stabilizer, 1-5% dispersant, and 1-5% other additives. In another embodiment, the skin-side adhesive contains a block copolymer (such as silicone-polyurethane) in which two components are combined to optimize skin pressure-sensitive adhesion properties. In yet another embodiment, the skin-side adhesive comprises a binder copolymer having linear, radial, and multi-arm structures to achieve desired properties. In another embodiment, the skin-side adhesive includes an acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive whose base polymer is an acrylic polymer (homopolymer or copolymer) using one or more alkyl (meth)acrylate esters as monomer components. Examples of alkyl (meth)acrylate esters in the acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive include methyl (meth)acrylate, ethyl (meth)acrylate, propyl (meth)acrylate, isopropyl (meth)acrylate, butyl (meth)acrylate, isobutyl (meth)acrylate, s-butyl (meth)acrylate, t-butyl (meth)acrylate, pentyl (meth)acrylate, hexyl (meth)acrylate, heptyl (meth)acrylate, and octyl (meth)acrylate. Examples of (meth)acrylate alkyl esters having a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms in the alkyl group include (meth)acrylate 2-ethylhexyl, (meth)acrylate isooctyl, (meth)acrylate nonyl, (meth)acrylate isononyl, (meth)acrylate decyl, (meth)acrylate isodecyl, (meth)acrylate undecyl, (meth)acrylate dodecyl, (meth)acrylate tridecyl, (meth)acrylate tetradecyl, (meth)acrylate pentadecyl, (meth)acrylate hexadecyl, (meth)acrylate heptadecyl, (meth)acrylate octadecyl, (meth)acrylate nona, and (meth)acrylate alkyl esters having a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms in the alkyl group, such as (meth)acrylate eicosyl.

[0027] In another embodiment, the skin-side adhesive may include rubber-based pressure-sensitive adhesive binders such as polyisoprene rubber, styrene-butadiene (SB) rubber, styrene-isoprene (SI) rubber, styrene-isoprene-styrene block air synthetic (SIS) rubber, styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer (SBS) rubber, styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene block copolymer (SEBS) rubber, styrene-ethylene-propylene-styrene block copolymer (SEPS) rubber, styrene-ethylene-propylene block copolymer (SEP) rubber, recycled rubber, butyl rubber, polyisobutylene, or rubber-based binders with modified versions thereof as the base polymer.

[0028] In another embodiment, the skin-side adhesive includes a silicone-based pressure-sensitive adhesive binder. For example, the silicone resin may be an organopolysiloxane having at least one unit selected from M units (R3SiO1 / 2), Q units (SiO2), T units (RSiO3 / 2), and D units (R2SiO), where in each formula, R in each unit is independently a monovalent hydrocarbon group or a hydroxyl group. Functional groups may be introduced into the copolymer as needed, and the introduced functional groups may undergo crosslinking reactions. The silicone resin is called an MQ resin and consists of M units and Q units. The peroxide-curable silicone resin may contain two or more silicone resins, or may contain partial condensates of two or more silicone resins. The curing agent can be, for example, benzoyl peroxide, t-butyl peroxybenzoate, dicumyl peroxide, t-butylcumyl peroxide, di-t-butyl peroxide, 2,5-dimethyl-2,5-di(t-butylperoxy)hexane, 2,4-dichlorobenzoyl peroxide, 1,1-bis(t-butylperoxy)-3,3,5-trimethylcyclohexane, or 2,5-dimethyl2,5-di(t-butylperoxy)hexyn-3.

[0029] In another embodiment, the skin-side adhesive includes a polyester-based pressure-sensitive adhesive binder containing at least a polyester obtained by polycondensation of a dicarboxylic acid having a side chain and an aliphatic diol having 3 to 10 carbon atoms. The polyester-based pressure-sensitive adhesive binder contains a dicarboxylic acid having a side chain, a polyester obtained by polycondensation of a diol, a polyether polyol, and a crosslinking agent.

[0030] In another embodiment, the skin-side adhesive is a urethane-based pressure-sensitive adhesive binder comprising one or more polyols (a-1) excluding polyether polyols having one or more ethyleneoxy (EO) groups per molecule, at least one polyether polyol (a-2) having one or more ethyleneoxy (EO) groups per molecule, and a urethane prepolymer (b) which is a reaction product of at least one polyisocyanate. This urethane-based pressure-sensitive adhesive binder also contains a β-diketone compound (X) or a fatty acid ester.

[0031] Examples of tackifying resins used in skin-side adhesives include one or more saturated hydrocarbon resins (synthetic petroleum resins), rosin ester derivatives, terpene resins, phenolic resins, and other polymers that exhibit tackifying properties.

[0032] Examples of plasticizers used in skin-side adhesives include one or more of the following: liquid paraffin, hardened oil, hardened castor oil, higher alcohols such as octyldodecanol, squalane, squalene, castor oil, liquid rubber (polybutene), or isopropyl myristate.

[0033] Other additives used in skin-side adhesives may include one or more of the following: pigments, dyes, fillers, anti-aging agents, conductive agents, antistatic agents, UV absorbers, light stabilizers, release modifiers, softeners, surfactants, flame retardants, or antioxidants. These other additives are included when they are particularly unstable and necessary to achieve the desired properties.

[0034] A notable feature of the eyelash system of the present invention is the use of notches 30 in the adhesive element 22 of the eyelash extension system 10 of the present invention. These notches or openings 30 can include various shapes or combinations and can penetrate the entire thickness of the adhesive element (i.e., between the first surface 26 and the second surface 28) or partially penetrate it. These notches provide two substantial benefits. First, the notches can provide rigidity to the shape of the elongated substrate, so that the elongated substrate resists deformation and wrinkling when folded or twisted, or under various environmental factors (e.g., humidity, temperature) during transport and storage. Also, the notches allow fluid communication between the first and second surfaces of the elongated substrate, even when the adhesive element is applied (attached) to the eyelash support strip of the eyelash extension system of the present invention. This fluid communication allows air bubbles between the adhesive element and the eyelash support strip to escape through the notches when the adhesive element is applied to the eyelash support strip. Furthermore, these notches can be placed at regular or irregular intervals along the length of the adhesive element and at any position along the width of the adhesive element.

[0035] Figure 2A shows notches as rectangles arranged at regular intervals along the length of the adhesive element. The particular rectangle in Figure 2A is a square. However, this is illustrative and does not mean that it is limiting, as any type of rectangle can be used.

[0036] Figures 2B to 2E illustrate various embodiments of adhesive elements usable in the present invention. Figure 2B shows an adhesive element characterized by a notch which is a diagonally positioned parallelogram-shaped opening 30. Figure 2C shows an adhesive element characterized by a notch which is a slit opening 30 formed by making notches through a first and / or second surface of an elongated substrate. Such a slit opening 30 in Figure 2C may be oriented in various ways, as shown in Figures 2C(a) to 2C(i), and in any other orientation or combination thereof. In some embodiments, the opening 30 includes a narrow slit.

[0037] The figures above generally show adhesive elements positioned within the length and width of the adhesive element. In other embodiments, the notches are located on the side edges of the adhesive element. Such embodiments are shown in Figures 2C(e) and 2D, where the notches are located on the side edges of the adhesive element. In configurations such as 2D, where the notches are larger, it may be beneficial to have a notch on one side edge of the adhesive element, as shown in Figure 2D, while the opposite side edge does not have a notch. This pattern can be repeated along the length of the adhesive element, thus providing the benefits of the notches discussed above without creating sections of the adhesive element with little tensile strength compared to other designs. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 2E, there are notches on both sides of the adhesive element at regular intervals along its length. Alternatively, as shown in Figures 2C(e) and 2F, there are notches on both sides of the adhesive element at regular intervals along its length, with the notches on one side offset laterally from the notches on the other side. Compared to the configuration in Figure 2E, this configuration maintains the strength of the adhesive elements by increasing the width of the substrate between the notches.

[0038] A distinguishing feature of the present invention is the ready-to-use nature of the system. This means that a user can use the system of the present invention by applying it without performing any further steps or adding glue to the eyelash extension system or their own eyelashes or eyelids. To obtain this feature of the present invention, the packaged eyelash extension system must have a clean, adhesive element for attachment to the user's eyelids or eyelashes. In one embodiment, the system of the present invention is packaged with the second surface of the adhesive element exposed for one-step attachment. In an alternative embodiment, as described above, the second surface of the adhesive element is covered with a temporary backing material (a second elongated substrate covering the adhesive element). In this configuration, the user can attach the eyelash extension system to their eyelids or eyelashes after removing the temporary backing material.

[0039] Figure 2G shows an alternative embodiment 23 of the adhesive element. As shown in Figure 2G, the adhesive element 23 is substantially the same as those shown in Figures 2A–F. This embodiment shares all the features of the adhesive elements shown so far (and may feature any shape or other notch configuration discussed above). This embodiment 23 features a tab 25 extending from one of the edges 27 of the adhesive element. The tab 25 is a small, integral part of the substrate (the same material as the rest of the adhesive element) and does not feature any adhesive spreading on its upward or downward surface, but may feature adhesive spreading on its downward surface in contact with the rest of the adhesive element 23. Figure 2G shows the tab as the outermost part of the adhesive element 23. This is illustrative and not limited to. The tab may be located on either or both of the outermost parts of the adhesive element. Furthermore, the tab may extend from either the superior edge or the depending edge 27a, 27b of the adhesive element. Tab 25 provides a non-adhesive element for the user to grasp with their hand or using a tool such as tweezers to manipulate the assembled eyelash extension system.

[0040] Figure 2G shows a single tab extending from the adhesive element. This is illustrative and not limited to other embodiments. In alternative embodiments, multiple tabs may extend from the adhesive element. Also, tab 25 may have dimensions larger than the rest of the adhesive element 23 so that it is easier to grasp by hand. In addition, each tab may include one or more openings along the length of the tab. These openings can take various forms, similar to the adhesive element openings depicted in Figures 2A–2F.

[0041] Similar to the adhesive element 23 shown in Figure 2G, any backing element used to temporarily cover an adhesive element may feature the tab element discussed above.

[0042] Manufacturing details Figure 3 shows an exploded view of a manufacturing facility 100 for manufacturing the eyelash extension system of the present invention. As shown in Figure 3, this method begins with a bare eyelash extension system 102 (without adhesive elements). In the manufacturing method of the present invention, the eyelash extension system 102 is first moved onto an adhesive application stage 103, and then a tape assembly 106 is positioned adjacent to the eyelash extension system. Once the tape assembly 106 is adjacent to the eyelash extension system, a pressing assembly 108 presses the adhesive elements onto the eyelash extension system 102 109, thereby attaching the adhesive elements to the eyelash extension system. Although Figure 3 shows a stage with a flat surface on which the eyelash extension system 102 is placed, other stage configurations (e.g., stages with non-flat or curved surfaces) may exist to allow stage placement of one or more eyelash extension systems 102 for attaching adhesive elements such as tape assemblies 106 to the eyelash extension system 102.

[0043] As shown in Figure 3, the manufacturing method of the present invention begins with an eyelash extension system 102 that does not yet have any accompanying adhesive elements. In the first step 103 of the manufacturing process, the bare eyelash extension system is moved onto an adhesive application stage.

[0044] Figure 4 is a detailed view of an example of an adhesive application stage. This adhesive application stage is a substantially flat platform 112. The platform has a length and width suitable for accommodating the installation area of ​​one or more eyelash extension systems 102.

[0045] Figure 4 shows the adhesive application stage as a curved stage. This is illustrative and not limiting. The adhesive application stage can be of any size, shape, area, and dimensions sufficient to adapt to the manufacturing process of the present invention.

[0046] As shown in Figure 4, the retaining members 114 extend from the upward surface 112a of the platform. Multiple of these retaining members 114 extend from the platform 112 of the adhesive application stage in a direction substantially perpendicular to the surface of the platform. The retaining members are arranged to form an arc (semicircle) that approximates the curvature of the support strip of the eyelash extension system used in the present invention. In Figure 4, the retaining member 114 is shown having a tapered end 114a towards the tip. The pointed end of the retaining member 114 ensures that the retaining member extends between eyelash filaments or groups thereof and does not bend the filaments. In alternative embodiments, the end of the retaining member 114 is rounded and not sharp, or even flat. In yet another embodiment, the end of the retaining member 114 extends from another platform opposite the upward surface 112a of the platform 112, so that the retaining member 114 is adjacent to two platforms, one at each end.

[0047] In Figures 4 and 5A-C, the retaining members 114 are monoliths extending from the surface of the platform 112 of the adhesive application stage. These monoliths are arranged in an arc shape that reflects the curvature of the eyelash support strip 116 of the eyelash extension system, as described above, with each such curved arrangement being approximately the same length as or slightly longer than the eyelash support strip 116. The monoliths 114 are positioned at regular intervals along a line 110 that follows the curvature of the platform 112. This arrangement allows each monolith to provide equal force when pressed against the eyelash support strip to prevent tearing or deformation of the eyelash support strip or the adhesive element on the opposite side of the monolith from the eyelash support strip, as shown in Figures 5A-C.

[0048] In one embodiment, the multiple retaining members 114 are arranged in a curved shape to approximate the curvature of the eyelash support strip 112.

[0049] The monolith 114 is shown as cylindrical. This is illustrative and not limiting. The monolith can be any shape that does not tear or damage any adhesive element or eyelash support strip 116 used in the present invention. In the first step 103 of the manufacturing method of the present invention, an eyelash extension system 102, which has not yet received an adhesive element, is placed on the platform 112 of the adhesive application stage. The eyelash extension system is placed so that the monolith is in contact with the first surface of the eyelash support strip 116 of the eyelash extension system 102. The eyelash extension system is placed so that the curvature of the eyelash support strip is within the curvature of the aligned monolith. Figure 5 shows a monolith extending between individual eyelash filaments. In one embodiment, the eyelash filaments extend in different directions and overlap as a group of eyelash filaments. In such an embodiment, the monolith extends between individual filaments in the group, but may be in contact with multiple filaments.

[0050] Figures 5A-C are cross-sectional views of the adhesive application stage after the eyelash extension system has been placed on the platform 112. As shown in Figure 5A, the eyelash support strip is positioned at a distance from the platform 112. The inventors envision an embodiment in which the eyelash extension system is suspended at a distance above the platform 112. Those skilled in the art will readily be able to determine how this can be achieved. For example, in one embodiment, the portion of the monolith closest to the platform has a section with an increased diameter, providing a surface on which the eyelash extension system is to rest. The portion of the monolith with an increased diameter can extend from the platform 112 to a desired length such that the eyelash extension system, positioned on the portion of the monolith with an increased diameter, is at a desired distance above the platform 112. This is illustrative and not limited to. For example, as shown in Figure 5B, the retaining member 114 may extend horizontally from the platform 112 such that the eyelash support strip 116 rests on the retaining member 114 with its filaments facing downward. Alternatively, the inventors have also envisioned an embodiment in which the eyelash extension system is in contact with and rests on the upward surface 112a of the platform 112, in which case the retaining member 114 may extend from the edge of the platform 112, as shown in Figure 5C, depending on a particular embodiment of the manufacturing method of the present invention disclosed herein.

[0051] Once the bare eyelash extension system 112 is positioned on the platform 112, the tape assembly 106 moves to a fixed position relative to the eyelash support strip of the bare eyelash extension system 107. Depending on the orientation of the position of the bare eyelash extension system relative to the platform (for example, Figures 5A and 5B), the direction of movement of the tape assembly is appropriately adjusted (for example, in Figure 5B, the tape assembly moves to a fixed position above the eyelash support strip, and in Figure 5A, the tape assembly moves to a position adjacent to the eyelash support strip).

[0052] Figure 6A is a detail view of the tape assembly 106. As shown in Figure 6A, the tape assembly comprises two arc-shaped, horizontally extending rails 118 separated from each other by a distance d. An adhesive element 119 of a certain length is positioned between the two rails 118, and the loosened adhesive element 119 is pulled from the supply roll 120. The adhesive element positioned between the rails 118 can be an elongated substrate with adhesive on both sides. Alternatively, the side of the elongated substrate facing away from the bare eyelash extension system can feature a temporary backing layer. The adhesive element can be any of those shown in Figures 2A-E above. As shown in Figure 6B, the platform 112 and retaining member 114 may be integrated into the rails 118. One of the rails (for example, the lower rail 118b) is a platform 112 having retaining members 114, and the other rail (for example, the upper rail 118a) has holes 115 made vertically therein, and the arrangement of the holes 115 along the length of the upper rail 118a corresponds to the arrangement of the retaining members 114 along the length of the lower rail 118b. The retaining members 114 of the lower rail 118b are inserted into the holes 115 of the upper rail 118a.

[0053] When the tape assembly 106 is positioned relative to the eyelash support strip placed on the adhesive application stage, the pressing assembly is moved to a position adjacent to the tape assembly. Figure 7 is a detailed view of the pressing assembly 108.

[0054] As shown in Figure 7, the pressing assembly includes a plate having a height h substantially equal to the width w of the adhesive element 22, or, depending on a particular embodiment of the manufacturing method of the present invention disclosed herein, the height h may be substantially equal to the width w of the support strip 12 (Figure 1). In another embodiment, the width w of the support strip 12 may be substantially equal to the width w of the adhesive element 22, and the height h may be substantially equal to the width w of both the adhesive element and the support strip. The plate is characterized by a proximal end 108a, which is arc-shaped and has a size and curvature substantially equal to or similar to that of the eyelash support strip of a bare eyelash extension system.

[0055] When the pressing assembly is in position relative to the tape assembly, the arc-shaped end 108a of the pressing assembly 108 presses the adhesive element onto the second surface of the eyelash support strip of the bare eyelash assembly system from between the rails of the tape assembly. The holding member 114 of the adhesive assembly stage provides a backstop (support) for the force provided by the pressing assembly, allowing for a firm press of the adhesive element onto the eyelash support strip of the bare eyelash extension system. After the pressing process, the eyelash extension system can be removed from the adhesive assembly stage, and the system is reset for the application of adhesive elements to the next bare eyelash extension system or the next batch.

[0056] Figure 8 provides a cross-sectional view of the completed eyelash extension system 130. As shown in Figure 8, the eyelash support strip of the extension system 116 receives an adhesive element 119 having adhesive 126 on both sides of the element 119. The embodiment of the eyelash extension system 130 shown in Figure 8 is also shown with the temporary backing material 128 in contact with and covering the adhesive 126a facing the user, as described above.

[0057] In an alternative embodiment, a complete eyelash extension system is assembled using a conveyor belt system, in which case the bare eyelash extensions 102 are transported along the conveyor belt to a first stop point. When the eyelash extensions 102 reach the stop point, the conveyor belt stops moving so that the bare eyelash extension system 102 can be collected by machine or, alternatively, by a human worker, and the eyelash support strip 116 of the bare eyelash extension system 102 is positioned in contact with an adhesive element 119 so that the adhesive element 119 adheres to the eyelash support strip 116 to create a completed eyelash extension system 130. The completed eyelash extension system 130 is then returned to the conveyor belt, which, upon receiving the completed eyelash extension system, starts moving again and moves the eyelash extension system 130 to a subsequent station such as packaging. In yet another embodiment, a continuous strip of support strip 116 (for example, a length equivalent to a total of 50 eyelash extension systems) is attached to the continuous strip of adhesive element 119 by using the method disclosed herein, and the attached combination of continuous strips is then cut at appropriate locations along its length (for example, 50 locations) to create a plurality of eyelash extension systems (for example, 50 eyelash extension systems).

[0058] A special tape assembly 106 is shown and discussed above. In an alternative embodiment, individual adhesive elements are applied to the eyelash extension system after being punched out from a roll, sheet, or strip, either via the conveyor belt method described above or manually.

[0059] In an alternative embodiment, the adhesive element is prepared according to the method shown in Figure 9. Referring to Figure 9, a large sheet of substrate 150 of the same material used to prepare the elongated substrate 24 described above is supplied. This substrate sheet 150 has an upward surface 152 and a downward surface 154 that are already covered with an adhesive (not shown). The substrate sheet 150 further has a length 158 and a width 140.

[0060] A substrate that has already received adhesive on both sides is wound around a cylinder 164 along either the width or length of the substrate 150, which is selected according to the desired dimensions of the cylinder 164 and the subsequent adhesive elements to be cut from the cylinder.

[0061] Once the cylinder 164 is complete, it is cut perpendicular to the height 168 of the cylinder using a cutting tool 166 to obtain individual rings 170 of the base material 150. These individual rings 170 are a rolled-up continuous strip of adhesive element, which can be unrolled, cut to the appropriate length, and applied to a bare eyelash extension system.

[0062] The cutting device is shown as a pair of scissors. This is illustrative and not limited to; any device suitable for cutting the rolled-up material is appropriate and can be operated automatically or manually.

[0063] Figure 9 shows the winding of the base material 150 without internal support elements. This allows the wound-up ring of the base material to be easily cut from the cylinder. Alternatively, the base material 150 can be wound around a support trolley or spool element.

[0064] Figures 10-12 show alternative manufacturing equipment for producing the eyelash extension system of the present invention, which uses a release coating and pre-glue application instead of tape.

[0065] A release coating 216 is applied to the pre-glue assembly 206, which prevents the pre-glue from bonding to the glue assembly. Once the release coating 216 has cured, the pre-glue 212 is applied to the assembly. The eyelash extension system 102 is then moved onto platforms 112 and 118b, and the pre-glue assembly 206 is positioned so that the pre-glue 212 faces the support strips of the eyelash extension system. The pressing assembly 108 then presses the adhesive elements against the support strips of the eyelash extension system 102.

[0066] This method begins with a bare eyelash extension system 200 (without adhesive elements). The manufacturing method of this invention uses platforms 112 and 118b in Figures 4 to 6B to correspond to the mounting area of ​​the eyelash extension system 102 as described above. The eyelash extension system 102, which has not yet received adhesive elements, is then placed on platforms 112 and 118b as described above. Once the bare eyelash extension system 102 is positioned on platforms 112 and 118b, the pre-glue assembly 206 moves into position relative to the eyelash support strip of the bare eyelash extension system.

[0067] Figure 11 depicts a pre-glue assembly 206. As shown in Figure 11, the pre-glue assembly includes two arc-shaped, horizontally extending rails 210 spaced apart from each other and forming a groove 208 on the pre-glue assembly. A release coating 216 is applied to the groove 208 between the two rails 210. The type of release coating used depends on the type of pre-glue used in application. For example, the release coating may be silicone-based, fluorine-based, or polyethylene-based. The release coating 216 allows the completed eyelash extension system 214 to be easily removed from the pre-glue assembly once the eyelash extension system is fully assembled. Depending on a particular embodiment of the manufacturing method of the present invention disclosed herein, the pre-glue assembly 206 may have a structure that accommodates the retaining member 114 of the platform 112. Such a structure may be a vertical groove 202 extending from the bottom of the lower horizontal rail through the upper horizontal rail. These vertical grooves 202 are aligned with the retaining member 114 so that the retaining member fits into the vertical grooves.

[0068] Once the release coating 216 has cured, the pre-glue 212 is injected into the groove 208 in the pre-glue assembly 106. Alternatively, the pre-glue 212 may be applied directly to the second surface of the eyelash support strip, which may be done by using a nozzle that continuously dispenses the pre-glue along the length of the second surface of the eyelash support strip. Suitable pre-glues for use in the present invention include any pressure-sensitive adhesive that can be applied to the adhesive element, maintains tackiness while the eyelash extension 10 is stored in the packaging material, does not bond with the release coating, and allows for easy removal from the pre-glue assembly 106. The pre-glue assembly 106 is positioned adjacent to the eyelash support strip, which is placed on the adhesive application stage. The pressing assembly 108 is then moved to a fixed position adjacent to the pre-glue assembly 206.

[0069] When the pressing assembly 108 is in position relative to the pre-glue assembly 206, the arc-shaped end of the pressing assembly 108 presses against the pre-glue assembly 206, applying the pre-glue 212 in the groove 208 of the pre-glue assembly to the second surface of the eyelash support strip of the bare eyelash assembly system 102. The holding member 114 of the adhesive assembly stage provides a backstop for the force provided by the pressing assembly, allowing for firm pressing of the pre-glue 212 onto the eyelash support strip of the bare eyelash extension system 102. After the pressing process, the eyelash extension system 214 is complete and can be removed from the adhesive assembly stage, and the system is reset for the application of pre-glue 212 onto the next bare eyelash extension system 102. In embodiments where the pre-glue assembly has vertical grooves 202 for accommodating the retaining member 114, the pre-glue assembly 106 is pressed until the second surface of the eyelash support strip enters the horizontal groove 208 of the pre-glue assembly 206, ensuring proper application of the pre-glue 212 to the eyelash support strip.

[0070] Figure 12a provides a front view of a completed eyelash extension system 214 using the pre-glue manufacturing method, and Figure 12b provides a cross-sectional view thereof. As shown in Figure 12b, the eyelash support strip of the extension system 214 receives the pre-glue 212 on a second (inward-facing) surface of the eyelash support strip. The cured release coating 216 is positioned between the pre-glue 212 and the pre-glue assembly 206, allowing the eyelash support strip to be easily removed from the pre-glue assembly. The groove 208 of the pre-glue assembly has a depth of 0.05 mm to 0.8 mm, although this depth may be deeper or shallower depending on the specific embodiment of the manufacturing method disclosed herein.

[0071] Pressure-sensitive adhesives and pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes are resistant to contamination from external contaminants such as moisture and oil when attaching artificial eyelash extension systems, allowing for safe attachment and removal of the artificial eyelash extension system. Ideally, the adhesive should have a holding power of several hours (e.g., 10-12 hours) when attached to the wearer's body (e.g., skin, eyelashes) and be reusable multiple times (e.g., 10 times) after removal.

[0072] To achieve this objective, pressure-sensitive adhesives and pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes contain adhesive components that exhibit excellent adhesion to substrates with low surface energy. For example, the surface energy of the following substrates is approximately as follows: human skin 25-30 dyne / cm² 2 Polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) 32 dyne / cm 2 , and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) 42 dyne / cm 2 .

[0073] While exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described in detail herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications, additions, substitutions, etc., can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention, and therefore these are considered to fall within the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

[0074] It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) described above may be used in combination with one another. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt the teachings of the invention to specific situations or materials, without departing from the scope of the invention. The dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define parameters of the invention, but they are not restrictive and are illustrative embodiments. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the above description. Therefore, the scope of the invention should be determined by referring to the appended claims together with the entire scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the appended claims, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as plain English equivalents of the terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Furthermore, in the appended claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their subjects. Furthermore, the limitations of the attached claims are not written in means-plus-function form and are not intended to be interpreted under Section 112(6) of the United States Patent Act unless such limitations explicitly use the phrase "means for..." followed by a description of a function lacking further structure.

[0075] Embodiments of the present invention for which an exclusive right or privilege is claimed are defined as attached.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing an eyelash extension system, A step of providing one or more bare eyelash extension systems on a stage, wherein the bare eyelash extension system includes eyelash filaments extending from a first surface of an eyelash support strip, and the stage includes a plurality of retaining members. The stage has a support surface with a curved shape that approximates the curvature of the eyelash support strip, and includes a plurality of holding members that support the left and right side edges of the eyelash support strip, and the bare eyelash extension system is held in place by the plurality of holding members, A step of placing a tape assembly, which comprises an adhesive element made of an elongated substrate having an adhesive layer on a first surface and a second surface along its length, positioned between two parallel rails, above the second surface of the eyelash support strip held by the holding member, A step of attaching the adhesive element from the tape assembly to the second surface of the eyelash support strip, the attaching step of pressing the adhesive element to the second surface via the tape assembly using a pressing plate having a curved proximal end that approximates the curvature of the eyelash support strip, A method that includes this.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the mounting step includes pressing the adhesive element onto the second surface using a pressing plate.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the adhesive element has a thickness of 0.5 to 0.8 mm.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the attachment step includes pressing the bare eyelash extension system onto the adhesive element using the plurality of retaining members.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of holding members are arranged in a curved shape so as to approximate the curvature of the eyelash support strip.

6. The method according to claim 2, wherein the pressing plate includes a plate having a proximal end that approximates the curvature of the eyelash support strip, and the pressing step includes using the proximal end of the pressing plate to press the adhesive element onto the second surface of the eyelash support strip of the bare eyelash extension system via the tape assembly.

7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the adhesive element has one or more openings along the length of the elongated substrate.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein one or more of the openings are rectangular.

9. The method according to claim 7, wherein one or more of the openings are oblique parallelograms.

10. The method according to claim 7, wherein the one or more openings are narrow slits formed by making notches in the adhesive element.

11. The method according to claim 7, wherein the opening is a triangular void opened in one side edge of the elongated base material.

12. The method according to claim 7, wherein the opening is a triangular void opened in both side edges of the elongated base material.

13. The method according to claim 7, wherein the opening along one side edge of the elongated base material is offset from the opening along the other side edge of the elongated base material.

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