Applicator and method of manufacturing an applicator

Abstract

Applicator for applying a cosmetic, pharmaceutical or industrial product, having a bristle carrier equipped with bristles and a rod-like bristle carrier core which forms a separate part to the bristle carrier and merges into a coupling section for coupling to a stem or into a stem, wherein the bristle carrier wraps around the bristle carrier core in such a way that the bristle carrier is fixed to the bristle carrier core so that it cannot be twisted or pulled off.

Description

[0001] MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH

[0002] APPLICATOR AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING AN APPLICATOR

[0003] The invention relates to an applicator for applying a cosmetic or a pharmaceutical product according to the generic term of claim 1 and to a method for manufacturing an applicator according to the generic term of claim 13.

[0004] TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

[0005] Applicators are often used for the application of cosmetic or medical products . These usually comprise a handle or stem, as well as an area known as a bristle carrier, which is equipped with bristles or other applicator elements . The area equipped with the applicator elements is first exposed to the product to be applied. The product to be applied is then applied to the desired application area and distributed or worked in there with the aid of the applicator elements by moving the applicator with its applicator elements along the application area while applying slight pressure with rotational and / or stroking movements . The applicator elements are typically exposed to the product to be applied by immersing the bristle carrier of the applicator in a container containing the product . The product to be applied adheres to the applicator elements and remains there as a result of friction and / or capillary effects even after the applicator has been removed from the container .

[0006] STATE OF THE ART

[0007] Depending in which field the applicator is used, the applicators for applying medical or cosmetic products can differ greatly in terms of their design. MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH There are typically two types of applicator or bristle carrier types with regard to the way they are manufactured.

[0008] Where no special requirements are placed on the geometry of the applicators and the bristle carriers, round-bristle carriers are generally used. Such bristle carriers are manufactured by inserting the applicator elements, which are designed as bristles, between two or more wires and then twisting the wires together . The bristles of such applicators are clamped between the wires by twisting them and are thus permanently attached to the bristle carrier . The advantage of such applicators or bristle carriers is that they are particularly inexpensive to manufacture . However, with regard to the design and geometry of the bristles and the bristle carrier, no or hardly any modifications can be made that offer particular advantages for the subsequent application behavior of the applicator . In addition, the fact that different materials have to be used for the bristles and the bristle carrier and that only a very limited selection of suitable materials is available can be disadvantageous depending on the area of application.

[0009] In contrast, applicators are also known in the prior art in which the bristle carrier and the applicator elements it supports are produced by additive manufacturing or inj ection molding. These applicators offer a wide variety of design options . However, this in turn is associated with significantly higher manufacturing costs .

[0010] However, one disadvantage or limitation with regard to the design possibilities of such applicators is that - at least in the case of inj ection-molded applicators - undercuts are difficult or impossible to achieve . In principle, various options are conceivable for realizing undercuts during MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH inj ection moulding (such as the use of lost cores) . However, due to the associated costs, this does not generally apply to highly automated production processes and / or large quantities . If an applicator is to be manufactured by inj ection molding because this is the only way to achieve the desired material properties and / or a specific bristle carrier geometry, undercuts usually cannot be intended. This problem can be avoided by manufacturing using additive processes . However, additive manufacturing processes are significantly less economical than inj ection molding for large quantities .

[0011] Another problem with conventional applicators that are manufactured using the inj ection molding process is the way in which the bristle carrier is attached to the applicator stem or to the coupling section of the applicator provided for this purpose . As a rule, the bristle carrier either merges integrally into the rest of the applicator or is pushed onto or inserted into it .

[0012] The disadvantage of a one-piece transition of the bristle carrier into the applicator stem is the associated restriction in the choice of applicator material as well as the increased costs in the production of the molds required for an inj ection molding process . While a flexible material is usually more advantageous for the applicator elements, a material that is as rigid as possible is generally preferable for the stem. It is also conceivable to use different plastics for different sections of the applicator using special processes . However, this does not change the increased costs in the production of the molds . In the case of one-piece applicators, completely new molds have to be produced for each new model series of applicators . In contrast, applicators in which the bristle carrier (including the bristles) and the rest of the applicator are manufactured separately have the advantage that MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH

[0013] the same casting molds can be used for all applicators with regard to the applicator stem and only the casting molds for the bristle carrier (including the bristles) need to be replaced .

[0014] The described disadvantages of one-piece applicators can be avoided by manufacturing the bristle carrier together with the applicator elements separately from the rest of the applicator and then sliding or inserting it onto or into the applicator or a corresponding coupling section. The bristle carrier is then usually attached using a purely force-fit connection. In this case, however, there is often the problem that the connection loosens after some time . This in turn results in the bristle carrier slipping or wobbling when it is moved along the application area during the intended application of the product . This makes it more difficult to apply the product precisely to the application area .

[0015] THE PROBLEM UNDERLYING THE INVENTION

[0016] In view of this, it is the task of the invention to provide an applicator in which the bristle carrier can be connected to the applicator stem or a coupling section adj acent to the applicator stem in such a way that subsequent undesirable loosening of the connection is avoided and in which it is preferable that there is greater diversity with regard to the design possibilities of the bristle carrier .

[0017] THE SOLUTION ACCORDING TO THE INVENTION

[0018] According to the invention, this problem is solved with the features of the main claim directed to the applicator . MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH Accordingly, the solution to the problem is provided by an applicator for applying a cosmetic or pharmaceutical product . The applicator comprises a bristle carrier equipped with bristles and a rod-like bristle carrier core . The bristle carrier core forms - at least temporarily in the manufacturing process - a separate part from the bristle carrier . In addition, the bristle carrier core merges into a coupling section for coupling to a stem or merges into a stem. The applicator is characterized by the fact that the bristle carrier wraps around the bristle carrier core in the intended assembled state in such a way that the bristle carrier is fixed to the bristle carrier core in a manner that it cannot be twisted or pulled off .

[0019] Since the bristle carrier core forms a separate part from the bristle carrier, the bristle carrier and the bristle carrier core are neither integrally connected to each other nor are they connected to each other in a form-fit, material-fit or force-fit manner immediately after production of the applicator . In particular, the bristle carrier core and the bristle carrier are not welded, glued, twisted or pinned together . The bristle carrier is therefore only connected to the rest of the applicator after the individual parts have been manufactured by mounting the bristle carrier on the bristle carrier core . This offers the advantage that different casting molds can be used for the bristle carrier and the rest of the applicator and / or that the bristle carrier can be optimally aligned more easily in order to be produced by 3D printing or at least to be provided with bristles by means of 3D printing.

[0020] A further advantage here may be that it is easier to use recycled material for a significant part, in particular postconsumer plastic material that is naturally subj ect to quality MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH fluctuations - namely for the bristle carrier core, which may then have different properties in batches (e . g. surface properties or wettability) . This would interfere with the inj ection molding of bristles, as they could then detach from the bristle carrier core prematurely due to the surface properties of the bristle carrier core not being precisely defined. The precise surface properties of the bristle carrier core do not play a role in the mechanical gripping of the bristle carrier core provided for in the invention.

[0021] The application properties of the applicator are usually mainly controlled by the design of the bristle carrier together with the bristles . In this way, a type of platform production or batch production can be realized in which the same stem with the same bristle carrier core is always used, regardless of the specific model type of the applicator or bristle carrier . Only when the bristle carrier is mounted on the bristle carrier core is it determined which model is to be produced by selecting the desired bristle carrier . This type of production creates enormous cost-saving opportunities .

[0022] Another advantage of this type of production is that a different material can easily be used for the stem and the bristle carrier core than for the bristle carrier and the bristles attached to it .

[0023] The type of connection between the bristle carrier and the bristle carrier core is designed so it cannot be pulled off or twisted, preventing unintentional loosening of the bristle carrier during product application. This ensures that the product can always be applied precisely at the area of application . MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH In many cases, the wrap is so firmly formed by the corresponding design of the wrapping partners that at least essentially no cosmetic can penetrate into the area of the contact surfaces of the wrap, or at least over the majority of the area, and be deposited there . This is advantageous from a hygienic point of view.

[0024] Ideally, the bristle carrier is fitted in one piece so that the bristles merge into the bristle carrier in the area of their bristle base . Depending on the manufacturing process, either the same or a different material can be used for the bristles than for the rest of the bristle carrier . 2k inj ection molding techniques, such as moltrusion, can also be used here to inj ect the bristles from a different material, such as the bristle carrier .

[0025] The terms "cosmetic (product) " or "pharmaceutical (product) " include not only purely cosmetic products such as make-up, but also medical products such as creams or ointments .

[0026] The bristle carrier is fixed to the bristle carrier core so that it cannot be "twisted", if the connection does not allow the bristle carrier to rotate relative to the bristle carrier core during the intended application of product to the application area .

[0027] The bristle carrier is fixed to the bristle carrier core so that it cannot be "pulled off", if the connection does not allow translational movement of the bristle carrier relative to the bristle carrier core during the intended application of product to the application area .

[0028] The bristle carrier "wraps around" the bristle carrier core if it completely covers or surrounds the outer circumferential MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH surface of the bristle carrier core in at least one section along the longitudinal axis of the bristle carrier core . A "complete" covering is also assumed if the area of the bristle carrier that wraps around the bristle carrier core has a gap between two adj acent sections .

[0029] A "complete" covering or "wrapping" is also assumed if two sections of the bristle carrier, which are arranged offset in relation to the longitudinal axis of the bristle carrier, only partially cover or wrap around the outer circumferential surface of the bristle carrier core, but in total (if they were hypothetically located on the same longitudinal axis section of the bristle carrier core) completely cover the bristle carrier core, i . e . all the way around.

[0030] The bristle carrier core is "rod-like" if its extension in the direction of its longitudinal axis is at least a factor of three greater than its maximum extension in the direction orthogonal to its longitudinal axis . Ideally, the bristle carrier core is hollow on the inside, preferably over at least 30 % of its cross-sectional area .

[0031] ANOTHER PROBLEM UNDERLYING THE INVENTION

[0032] Furthermore, it is the task of the invention to provide a method with which a bristle carrier according to the invention can be produced by means of additive manufacturing or inj ection molding, which has undercuts in the intended assembled state .

[0033] THE FURTHER SOLUTION ACCORDING TO THE INVENTION

[0034] The above-mentioned problem is solved by means of a method for manufacturing an applicator fitted with flexible and, in MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH particular, bristles in accordance with the invention. The method is characterized in that a bristle carrier core and, separately therefrom, a bristle carrier are produced. The bristle carrier is then folded or folded together in such a way that two ends that were previously distant from each other come to rest against each other . The bristle carrier core is then inserted into the bristle carrier in such a way that the bristle carrier core prevents the bristle carrier from being unfolded or unfolded again by positive locking.

[0035] The separate manufacture of the bristle carrier and the bristle carrier core leads to the advantages already described. What was said at the beginning about the device claim therefore also applies here .

[0036] Once the bristle carrier and the bristle carrier core have been manufactured, the bristle carrier is folded or folded together during assembly and then pushed onto the bristle carrier core .

[0037] The free ends (or, depending on the type of folding, other sections) of the bristle carrier may therefore point in a different direction when not assembled than when assembled. With a clever choice of geometry and parting plane of the inj ection molds, a geometry can be produced that does not yet have any undercuts in the unfolded state, but only in the intended assembled state . Consequently, such an applicator can be produced by inj ection molding even though it may have undercuts when fully assembled.

[0038] The form-fit connection of the bristle carrier core and the bristle carrier prevents the bristle carrier from loosening after some time . This means that precise application of the product is still possible even after repeated use . MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH

[0039] Depending on the area of application, the bristle carrier core and the bristle carrier can be designed in such a way that the bristle carrier can only be detached from the bristle carrier core after the bristle carrier has been fitted as intended by destroying the bristle carrier . Alternatively, the bristle carrier core and the bristle carrier can also be designed in such a way that the bristle carrier can also be removed from the bristle carrier core again - possibly with slight elastic deformation of the bristle carrier .

[0040] The cosmetic, pharmaceutical or industrial product is preferably a fluid, a liquid or a pasty mass . Cosmetic products can be mascara, cosmetic glues or dental products . Pharmaceutical products can be ointments, dental products or surgical products . Industrial products can be glues or pastes .

[0041] PREFERRED DESIGN OPTIONS

[0042] There are a number of ways in which the invention can be designed to further improve its effectiveness or usefulness .

[0043] Thus, it is particularly preferred that the bristle carrier only partially wraps around the bristle carrier core so that part of the circumferential surface of the bristle carrier core remains free . Preferably, more than 20% and preferably more than 35% of the circumferential surface of the bristle carrier core remains free .

[0044] This allows material savings to be realized in the production of the bristle carrier .

[0045] In addition, such a design makes it easier to detach the bristle carrier (possibly also by destroying the bristle MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH carrier) . For example, an appropriate cutting or lever tool can penetrate into a gap between the bristle carrier core and the bristle carrier at the transition of a free area of the bristle carrier core to the wrapped area of the bristle carrier core and then remove the bristle carrier from the bristle carrier core or cut through the bristle carrier .

[0046] A circumferential surface section of the bristle carrier core remains "free" if it is not wrapped by the bristle carrier . This is the case if no bristle carrier section adjoins the circumferential surface of the bristle carrier core in the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the bristle carrier core in the free section.

[0047] In another preferred embodiment, the bristle carrier forms a clamp consisting of clamp halves . When closed, the clamp halves accommodate the bristle carrier core between them.

[0048] Depending on the design of the bristle carrier core, this can create both a positive and non-positive connection between the bristle carrier core and the bristle carrier . In addition, the forces acting on the bristle carrier during application can be well supported on the bristle carrier core by the clamp-like design of the bristle carrier .

[0049] The clamp forming the bristle carrier can either be designed in such a way that it is first brought to the corresponding longitudinal axis section of the bristle carrier core and then closed .

[0050] Alternatively, the clamp forming the bristle carrier can be designed in such a way that it is first closed and the closed clamp is then pushed onto the bristle carrier core . MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH

[0051] The clamp is "closed" when the two clamp halves lie against each other or face each other in such a way that they wrap around the bristle carrier core when fitted.

[0052] In the context of the invention, a "clamp" is to be understood as a component of the type or function of a pipe clamp, even if the bristle carrier core does not have to be a pipe or circular . Accordingly, a "clamp" is a component which comprises two sections (possibly also merging into one another in one piece) which, in the closed state, form the negative shape to a longitudinal axis section of the bristle carrier, at least in sections .

[0053] A bristle carrier can also consist of several clamp sections which, in the assembled state, wrap around or clasp the bristle carrier core together . A clamp half can also be designed in such a way that it comprises several clamp sections between which, in turn, sections are provided that do not form a clamp section.

[0054] In addition, it is also conceivable that two clamp halves forming a clamp or two clamp sections which in their interaction wrap around the bristle carrier core are not at the same height in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the bristle carrier, but are arranged offset from each other in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the bristle carrier .

[0055] Two clamp halves "take up the bristle carrier core between them" when they at least partially wrap around or clasp the bristle carrier core when closed.

[0056] In a further preferred embodiment, the clamp halves are connected to one another in a pivotable manner relative to one MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH another by a section forming a hinge or plastic hinge . The plastic hinge preferably has the shape of a film hinge .

[0057] This design makes it possible to produce the bristle carrier in such a way that the two halves of the bristle carrier, which can be pivoted relative to each other via the hinge, are arranged at a different angle to each other immediately after production than in the fully assembled state . This means that inj ection molding can be used to produce geometries that have undercuts in the fully assembled state .

[0058] The use of a film hinge allows the two clamp halves to merge into the hinge as a single piece . This means that the clamp halves and therefore the bristle carrier can be produced as a whole in one mold.

[0059] A "hinge" is a section that allows the two halves of the clamp to pivot relative to each other . A "film hinge" is a hinge in which the pivoting movement of the two parts connected by the hinge is not realized by an actual rotational movement of a hinge section, but by an elastic deformation of the section forming the hinge .

[0060] Ideally, the clamp is designed in such a way that it cannot be opened as long as it wraps around the bristle carrier core as intended .

[0061] This prevents unintentional opening or loosening of the bristle carrier during use . This is achieved, for example, by the bristle carrier first having to be partially or completely removed from the bristle carrier core before the clamp or clamps can be opened. Under certain circumstances, the clamps and / or other sections of the bristle carrier must be slightly elastically deformed during removal from the bristle carrier MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH

[0062] core . It is also conceivable that once a bristle carrier has been mounted on the bristle carrier core, it cannot be detached from the bristle carrier core again without destruction or plastic deformation.

[0063] Preferably, each clamp half has several windows and several first clamp sections . The windows and the first clamp sections are arranged in such a way that, when the clamp is fully closed, the first clamp sections of the first clamp half engage through the windows of the second clamp half and the first clamp sections of the second clamp half engage through the windows of the first clamp half .

[0064] Each clamp half therefore has individual sections that support the clamp function and individual sections that do not have a clamp function. In the direction of the longitudinal axis of the bristle carrier, a window of the first clamp half and a clamp section of the second clamp half are always opposite each other .

[0065] The windows make it possible to fold or fold together the bristle carrier for mounting on the bristle carrier core without the curved clamp sections of the two clamp halves colliding with the other clamp half .

[0066] A "window" is a section of a clamp half that allows a view of the bristle carrier core when the bristle carrier is installed as intended.

[0067] In another preferred embodiment, the two front sides of the clamp halves rest against each other . In addition, the first clamp sections of the first clamp half wrap around the applicator core essentially or predominantly in the area of the rear side of the second clamp half . In contrast, the first MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH clamp sections of the second clamp half wrap around the applicator core essentially or predominantly in the area of the rear side of the first clamp half .

[0068] When installed as intended, the bristle carrier core protrudes through the clamp sections of the two clamp halves .

[0069] As a result of the interlocking of the two clamp halves described in this design example, the bristle carrier mounted as intended cannot be opened as long as it is pushed onto the bristle carrier core . This ensures that the clamp is securely closed .

[0070] Ideally, each clamp half also has at least one second clamp section, which essentially or predominantly wraps around the bristle carrier core in the area of its own rear side .

[0071] This ensures that each of the two clamp halves is supported on the bristle carrier core after the intended assembly on the bristle carrier core in such a way that it can transmit forces towards the other clamp half as well as forces away from the other clamp half to the bristle carrier core . This is an advantage, as a rather flexible material is generally used for the bristle carrier . At the same time, however, it should not be possible to deform the bristle carrier in the area directly adj acent to the bristle carrier core in order to enable precise application of the product . The support of the bristle carrier on the bristle carrier core described here thus promotes the application behavior of the applicator .

[0072] Preferably, an unintentional relative movement in the direction of the longitudinal axis between the bristle carrier core and the bristle carrier or the clamp formed by it is MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH prevented by a latching connection between the bristle carrier core and the bristle carrier .

[0073] For example, steps, webs or grooves can be provided on the bristle carrier core which, when the clamp is closed, impede or prevent a translational and possibly also a rotational relative movement between the clamp and the bristle carrier core . Depending on the design of the steps, webs or grooves that may be present on the bristle carrier core or the bristle carrier, the clamp may then have to be slightly elastically deformed when it is pushed onto the bristle carrier core . It is therefore particularly advantageous if the shoulders each have a mounting bevel in the push-on direction, over which the bristle carrier can be pushed on with slight elastic deformation. It is also advantageous if the shoulders have a hard edge in the opposite direction, which makes it more difficult to pull off the bristle carrier .

[0074] In a further preferred embodiment, each clamp half consists of a hinge strip and a contact strip, each of which is only connected to one another by several clamp sections .

[0075] The area between the hinge strip and the contact strip of each clamp half is therefore only used to wrap around the bristle carrier core . No elements are used to increase rigidity in this area . The clamp sections can therefore adapt better to the outer circumferential surface of the bristle carrier core . This is particularly advantageous if the bristle carrier or the clamp sections of the bristle carrier are to deform elastically when they are pushed onto the bristle carrier core .

[0076] The contact strip is used to make contact with the corresponding contact strip on the other half of the clamp . MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH

[0077] Ideally, the side of the bristle carrier facing away from the hinge is fitted with integrally connected applicator elements . The side of the bristle carrier covered with the applicator elements is preferably its contact strip . The applicator elements are preferably flexible and ideally have the shape of bristles .

[0078] Since the applicator elements are integrated into the bristle carrier, they can also be manufactured together with the bristle carrier by inj ection molding. If the applicator elements are provided on the contact strips of the bristle carrier, this means that the applicator elements lie in one plane in the unfolded state of the bristle carrier or lie in two planes that enclose an angle of more than 90° between them. As a result, the application members can have a curvature which, in the intended assembled state of the bristle carrier, represent undercuts, whereas in the unfolded state of the bristle carrier before assembly they do not represent undercuts . Consequently, such an embodiment greatly increases the design possibilities that can be realized by means of an inj ection moulding process .

[0079] "Flexible" applicator elements are applicator elements whose geometry and material allow the respective applicator element to be bent by a radius that is less than five times the diameter of the carrying element .

[0080] In a further preferred embodiment, the applicator consists of at least two different plastics . Preferably, either the bristle carrier and the applicator elements are made of different plastics and / or the two clamp halves are made of different plastics and / or the hinge-forming section of the hinge strip and the rest of the respective clamp half are made MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH of different plastics . The applicator elements ideally have the shape of bristles .

[0081] For example, it can be advantageous if the applicator elements are made of a significantly less rigid material than the bristle carrier, as the applicator elements then adapt better to the application area . It can also be advantageous if the applicator elements are made of a stiffer material than the bristle carrier . Due to their geometry, the applicator elements are usually relatively flexible anyway. If the bristle carrier is also to be flexible so that it can also adapt to the geometry of the application area, for example, a material with a lower stiffness can be used for the bristle carrier .

[0082] It can also be advantageous if the clamp half or the clamp sections of the bristle carrier have a higher rigidity than the rest of the bristle carrier . For example, if the stiffness of the clamp sections is too low, the bristle carrier may move too much relative to the bristle carrier core during application .

[0083] It can also be advantageous if the hinge strips have a lower rigidity than the rest of the bristle carrier in order to ensure that the clamp halves can pivot relative to each other .

[0084] FIGURE LIST

[0085] Fig. 1 shows a bristle carrier according to the invention in the unfolded state .

[0086] Fig. 2 shows the bristle carrier from Fig. 1 in the transition from the unfolded to the folded state . MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH Fig. 3 shows the bristle carrier from Fig. 1 in the folded state .

[0087] Fig. 4 shows the bristle carrier from Fig. 1 in the intended state mounted on a bristle carrier core .

[0088] Fig. 5 shows a further embodiment of an applicator according to the invention.

[0089] DESIGN EXAMPLE

[0090] The mode of operation of the invention is explained by way of example with reference to Figs . 1-5. Figs . 1-4 show a first embodiment example of a bristle carrier 2 or applicator 1 according to the invention. Finally, Fig. 5 shows a second embodiment example of a bristle carrier 2 or applicator 1 according to the invention. In all figures, the bristles 14 are only provided with reference signs by way of example . In Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, the individual components of the bristle carrier 2 are also not provided with reference signs for better illustration.

[0091] Figs . 1-4 are explained below.

[0092] Fig. 1 shows a bristle carrier 2 according to the invention in the unfolded state, as it is after production and before assembly on the bristle carrier core 3. The bristle carrier 2 consists of the two clamp halves 2a and 2b . Each clamp half 2a and 2b has a hinge strip 12, a contact strip 13, several bristles 14 and several clamp sections 8, 10 or 9, 11 and windows 7 .

[0093] In the area of their hinge strips 12, the two clamp halves 2a and 2b merge preferably integrally into one another or MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH preferably integrally into the hinge 6. The hinge strips 12 thus form the hinge 6. Since the section of the bristle carrier 2 forming the hinge 6 is made of a flexible material, the two clamp halves 2a and 2b can be pivoted towards each other around the hinge 6.

[0094] The advantage of this pivotable shape of the bristle carrier 2 is that the bristle carrier 2 has a different geometry or orientation during manufacture or until assembly than in the intended assembled state . For example, in the state shown in Fig. 1, the bristles 14 point away from each other and the two planes in which the bristles 14 of the two clamp halves 2a and 2b are arranged are aligned at an angle of more than 90° to each other . The bristle carrier 2 shown in Fig. 1 can therefore be easily manufactured using an inj ection molding process . There are no undercuts that could lead to problems in the molding process . In contrast, a bristle carrier 2 as shown in Fig. 4 could not be produced using a casting process (without lost cores) . A sensible parting plane for the casting molds would not be definable due to the area enclosed between the facing and curved bristles 14 of the two clamp halves 2a and 2b and the contact strips 13 resting against each other . The hinged design of the bristle carrier 2 therefore makes it possible to produce bristle geometries or bristle orientations that could not otherwise be produced by inj ection molding.

[0095] To mount the bristle carrier 2 on the bristle carrier core 3 of the applicator 1, the two clamp halves 2a and 2b are pivoted around the hinge 6 until the two contact strips 13 are in contact with each other . The transition from the unfolded or open state of the bristle carrier 2 shown in Fig. 1 to the folded or closed state shown in Fig. 3 is illustrated in Fig.

[0096] 2. In this closed state, the bristle carrier 2 is pushed onto the bristle carrier core 3. MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH

[0097] In the closed state shown in Fig. 3, the first clamp sections 8 of the first clamp half 2a protrude through the windows 7 of the second clamp half 2b and the first clamp sections 9 of the second clamp half 2b protrude through the windows 7 of the first clamp half 2a . If the bristle carrier 2 is now pushed onto the rod-like bristle carrier core 3 in this state, the two clamp halves 2a and 2b - as long as they are not pulled off the bristle carrier core 3 again - cannot be pivoted away from each other . Consequently, the two clamp halves 2a and 2b cannot be folded open again without further ado .

[0098] A first clamp section 8 of the first clamp half 2a and a first clamp section 9 of the second clamp half 2b wrap around the bristle carrier core 3 when the bristle carrier 2 is assembled. The same applies to a second clamp section 10 of the first clamp half 2a and a second clamp section 11 of the second clamp half 2b . Thus, the forces acting on the bristle carrier 2 or on each clamp half 2a or 2b during the application of product to the application area are supported all around the bristle carrier core 3.

[0099] In addition, the dimensions of the clamp sections 8, 9, 10 and 11 and the bristle carrier core 3 are matched to each other in such a way that, when the bristle carrier 2 is assembled, there is a frictional connection between the bristle carrier 2 and the circumferential surface 5 of the bristle carrier core 3. This frictional connection prevents the bristle carrier 2 from slipping off the bristle carrier core 3 in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the bristle carrier core 3 during intended use or from twisting relative to the bristle carrier core 3. The inner diameters of the clamp sections 8, 9, 10 and 11 are therefore preferably selected so that a slight elastic deformation of the bristle carrier 2 takes place when it is MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH pushed onto the bristle carrier core 3. This ensures that the bristle carrier core 3 is clamped between the two clamp halves 2a and 2b .

[0100] The bristles 14 of the bristle carrier 2 or applicator 1 shown in Figs . 1-4 merge integrally into the contact strips 13. When the bristle carrier 2 is mounted as intended, this results in two parallel bristle rows 16 at the free ends of the two contact strips 14. The individual bristles 14 of the two bristle rows 16 are aligned in such a way that the free ends of the bristles 14 point in one direction away from the respective opposite bristle row 16.

[0101] When assembled as intended, the applicator 1 with the bristle carrier 2 can be immersed in a container that stores the product to be applied. In this case, the product accumulates in particular on the bristles 14 and is held there as a result of friction and capillary effects even after the bristle carrier 2 is pulled out of the container . The product on the remaining bristle carrier 2 can be wiped off on a wiper lip of the container provided for this purpose . In order to apply the product to be applied to the application area, the bristles 14 are moved back and forth while pressing lightly against the application area . The applicator 1 is held by its stem 15.

[0102] The applicator 1 shown in Fig. 5 differs from the applicator 1 shown in Figs . 1-4 in that the bristles 14 are oriented differently. In the embodiment example shown here, the individual bristles 14 of the two bristle rows 16 are aligned in such a way that the free ends of the bristles 14 point in the direction of the respective opposite bristle row 16. The free ends of the bristles 14 of the two clamp halves 2a and 2b extend beyond the contact strip 13 of the respective other clamp half 2b or 2a . The bristles 14 of the bristle row 16 of MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH the first clamp half 2a are also offset in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the bristle carrier core 3 relative to the bristles 14 of the bristle row 16 of the second clamp half 2b . MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH REFERENCE LIST

[0103] 1 Applicator

[0104] 2 Bristle carrier or clamp

[0105] 2a First half of the clamp

[0106] 2b Second half of the clamp

[0107] 3 Bristle carrier core

[0108] 4 not assigned

[0109] 5 Circumferential surface of the bristle carrier core 6 Hinge

[0110] 7 Windows

[0111] 8 First clamp sections of the first half of the clamp 9 First clamp sections of the second half of the clamp 10 Second clamp sections of the first half of the clamp 11 Second clamp sections of the second half of the clamp 12 Hinge strip

[0112] 13 Contact strip

[0113] 14 Bristles / applicator elements

[0114] 15 Applicator stem

[0115] 16 Bristle row

Claims

Page 25 of 29MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH PROTECTION CLAIMS1. Applicator ( 1 ) for applying a cosmetic, pharmaceutical or industrial product, having a bristle carrier (2 ) equipped with bristles ( 14 ) and a rod-like bristle carrier core (3) which forms a separate part to the bristle carrier and merges into a coupling section for coupling to a stem or into a stem ( 15) , characterized in that the bristle carrier (2 ) wraps around the bristle carrier core (3) in such a way that the bristle carrier (2 ) is fixed to the bristle carrier core (3) so that it cannot be twisted or pulled of f .

2. Applicator ( 1 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the bristle carrier (2 ) only partially wraps around the bristle carrier core (3) , so that a part of the circumferential surface (5) of the bristle carrier core (3) , preferably more than 20%, better more than 35%, remains free .

3. Applicator ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bristle carrier (2 ) forms a clamp (2 ) which consists of clamp halves (2a, 2b) which receive the bristle carrier core (3) between them in the closed state .

4. Applicator ( 1 ) according to claim 3, characterized in that the clamp halves (2a, 2b) are pivotably connected to one another relative to one another by a section forming a hinge ( 6) or plastic hinge, the latter preferably in the form of a film hinge .

5. Applicator ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the clamp (2 ) is designed in such aPage 26 of 29MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH way that it cannot be opened as long as it wraps around the bristle carrier core (3) as intended.

6. Applicator ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each clamp half (2a, 2b) has a plurality of windows (7 ) and a plurality of first clamp sections ( 8, 9) which are arranged in such a way that in the fully closed state of the clamp (2 ) , the first clamp sections ( 8 ) of the first clamp half (2a) engage through the windows (7 ) of the second clamp half (2b) and the first clamp sections ( 9) of the second clamp half (2b) engage through the windows (7 ) of the first clamp half (2a) .

7. Applicator ( 1 ) according to claim 5, characterized in that the clamp halves (2a, 2b) lie against one another on their front sides and the first clamp sections ( 8 ) of the first clamp half (2a) wrap around the applicator core (3) in the region of the rear side of the second clamp half (2b) , while the first clamp sections ( 9) of the second clamp half (2b) wrap around the bristle carrier core (3) in the region of the rear side of the first clamp half (2a) ,8. Applicator ( 1 ) according to claim 5, characterized in that each clamp half (2a, 2b) also has at least one second clamp section ( 10, 11 ) which wraps around the bristle carrier core (3) in the region of its own rear side .

9. Applicator ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a relative movement in the direction of the longitudinal axis between the bristle carrier core (3) and the bristle carrier (2 ) or the clamp (2 ) formed by it is prevented by a latching connection between the bristle carrier core (3) and the bristle carrier (2 ) .Page 27 of 29MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH 10 . Applicator ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims , characteri zed in that each clamp hal f ( 2a, 2b ) consists of a hinge strip ( 12 ) and a contact strip ( 13 ) , each of which is connected to one another only by a plurality of clamp sections ( 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 ) .11 . Applicator ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims , characteri zed in that the side of the bristle carrier ( 2 ) facing away from the hinge ( 6 ) , preferably its contact strip ( 13 ) , is provided with integrally one-piece connected applicator elements ( 14 ) , preferably flexible applicator elements ( 14 ) , ideally in the form of bristles ( 14 ) .12 . Applicator ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims , characteri zed in that the applicator ( 1 ) consists of at least two di f ferent plastics , it being preferred that either the bristle carrier ( 2 ) and the applicator elements ( 14 ) , ideally in the form of bristles ( 14 ) , are made of di f ferent plastics and / or the two clamp halves ( 2a, 2b ) are made of di f ferent plastics and / or the hinge- forming section of the hinge strip ( 12 ) and the rest of the respective clamp hal f ( 2a, 2b ) are made of di f ferent plastics .13 . Method for producing an applicator ( 1 ) fitted with flexible and in particular bristles ( 14 ) according to one of the preceding claims , characteri zed in that a bristle carrier core ( 3 ) and, separately therefrom, a bristle carrier ( 2 ) are produced, the bristle carrier ( 2 ) then being folded or folded together in such a way that two ends which were previously remote from each other come to lie against each other and then the bristle carrier core ( 3 ) is pushed into the bristle carrier ( 2 ) in such a way that the bristle carrier core ( 3 ) prevents the bristle carrier ( 2 ) from being unfolded or unfolded again by positive locking .Page 28 of 29MISSELHORN | mw-patent.de | 05124EPWO for GEKA GmbH14. Use of a bristle-carrying bristle carrier (2 ) - preferably with the features of claim 1 relating to the bristle carrier (2 ) - for the clamp-like wrapping of a bristle carrier core (3) consisting of recycled material and preferably post-consumer recycled material .

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