Abstract:
A unique apparatus for the application of lotions, balms and creams to a person&#39;s back area includes interchangeable applicators each having a removable connection through which lotions is introduced to the applicator. Soft, flexible tubing transmits the lotion throughout the interior of the applicator that, in turn, has a series of small apertures allowing the liquid-based material to be dispersed onto the applicator pad when gently squeezed. In use, a person pulls the pad back and forth across their back using the long straps attached to each end. It is also envisioned that the pad could be supported from a shower wall to allow the user to rub their back against it. One side is the applicator pad while the other side and side edges are coated with a waterproof sealant to keep the material from saturating the side that is not is use.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
   The present invention was first described in and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/860,939 filed on Nov. 27, 2006, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. 

   FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
   The present invention relates generally to an applicator apparatus for applying lotions and, more particularly, to said apparatus providing individuals with the ability of applying lotions to or to scrub their back region in a comfortable manner. 
   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   Applying a topical liquid whether it is a lotion, soap, oil or other liquid to one&#39;s back or other hard to reach area can be a difficult feat. These problems are compounded in individuals with limited flexibility. Another difficulty is applying the liquid evenly and absorbing the excess liquid that is applied. Consequently, there is a need for an apparatus that evenly applies topical liquids to hard toe reach areas of the human body and absorbs excess liquid. The development of the invention herein described fulfills this need. 
   U.S. Pat. No. 6,899,481 issued to Katsandres et al. discloses a retractable belt lotion applicator. This patent does not appear to disclose an apparatus that possesses an application pad that on one face can evenly disperse topical liquids and on the other face absorb excess liquid nor does the patent appear to disclose an apparatus with the multiple functionality of the instant invention. 
   U.S. Pat. No. D 440,355 issued to Nati discloses a back scrubber. This design patent differs in appearance from the invention and does not appear to disclose an application pad that on one face can evenly disperse topical liquids and on the other face absorb excess liquid nor does the patent appear to disclose an apparatus with the multiple functionality of the instant invention. 
   U.S. Pat. No. 6,174,297 issued to Chen discloses a handheld bath scrubber with massage balls. This patent does not appear to disclose an apparatus that is easily manipulated through the use of straps nor does it appear to disclose an apparatus with the multiple functionality of the instant invention. 
   U.S. Pat. No. 5,979,006 issued to Stokes discloses a lotion applicator and body massage assembly. This patent does not appear to disclose an apparatus that can distribute topical liquid as desired through a refillable reservoir. 
   U.S. Pat. No. D 393,102 issued to Meier discloses a lotion applicator. This design patent differs in appearance from the invention and does not appear to disclose an apparatus that possesses an application pad that on one face can evenly disperse topical liquids and on the other face absorb excess liquid nor does the patent appear to disclose an apparatus with the multiple functionality of the instant invention. 
   U.S. Pat. No. 5,545,456 issued to Suida discloses a wash-cloth that cleans and massages. This patent does not appear to disclose an apparatus that can distribute topical liquid as desired through a refillable reservoir. 
   U.S. Pat. No. 5,013,171 issued to Almond discloses a body lotion applicator apparatus. This patent does not appear to disclose an apparatus that possesses an application pad that on one face can evenly disperse topical liquids and on the other face absorb excess liquid nor does the patent appear to disclose an apparatus with the multiple functionality of the instant invention. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the prior art, it has been observed that there is need for a means by which an individual can quickly and easily cleanse, and scrub their back area of their body and/or apply lotion. 
   The lotion applicator provides a convenient way to evenly apply soap or lotion to one&#39;s back. 
   The lotion applicator comprises an application pad, an internal tube-like reservoir with a plurality of dispersing apertures and straps. 
   The lotion applicator possesses an application pad can be constructed from any absorbent and stretchable material such as but not limited to, terry cloth in a variety of colors or motifs. 
   The lotion applicator possesses an application pad that can be of any geometric shape such as but not limited to, cylindrical or rectangular. 
   The lotion applicator application pad is composed of a top cover and a bottom cover. 
   The lotion applicator application pad possesses on its bottom cover a reservoir that contains the ability and capacity to store and dispense topical treatments such as but not limited to soap and/or lotion. 
   The lotion applicator application pad on its bottom cover contains a plurality of dispersing apertures operably positioned along the partial or complete span of the reservoir. 
   The lotion applicator reservoir comprises a soft flexible tube-like structure that is capable of being refilled with topical treatments such as but not limited to soap and lotion. 
   The lotion applicator reservoir possesses a closing cap which can be removed for the introduction of liquid topical treatments and the sealing of the reservoir. 
   The lotion applicator application pad on its top cover possesses a pad which is composed of an absorbent flexible material that possesses the ability to absorb excess lotion and/or soap that is present on the skin. 
   The lotion applicator provides a set of straps for manual manipulation of the applicator on ones body. 
   The lotion applicator straps are permanently attached to the application pad by means of sewing, seaming, adhering or other embedding means. 
   The lotion applicator straps comprise a durable and resilient material and may be elastic. 
   The lotion applicator straps each possess a distal and proximal end. 
   The lotion applicator straps at their proximal end are attached to the application pad while at the distal end may possess hooks or other fastening means to enable the lotion applicator to be suspended when not in use as an applicator. 
   The lotion applicator may be suspended with a fragrant material in the reservoir to act as an air freshener. 
   The lotion applicator application pad may, in alternative embodiments, be designed in various shapes such as but not limited to, sport team logos, cartoon characters and animal caricatures. 
   The lotion applicator application pad, in alternate embodiments may have differing textures on opposing sides of the pad to provide different effects to the topical treatments contained in the reservoir. 
   The lotion applicator may, in an alternate embodiment employ massaging beads, balls or other objects integrated into the application pad to impart a massaging effect to the apparatus when used. 
   The lotion applicator may, in an alternate embodiment possesses handles at the distal ends of the straps. 
   The lotion applicator is designed to administer measured amounts of topical treatments such as but not limited to, soaps, lotions, gels, body wash, creams, balms or oils to hard to reach areas of the body. 
   The prior art appears to disclose apparatuses which can be utilized on hard to reach areas of the body. The prior art does not appear to disclose an apparatus that can evenly and easily distribute topical liquids on hard to reach areas of the body and absorb the excess liquid. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The advantages and features of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following more detailed description and claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like elements are identified with like symbols and in which: 
       FIG. 1  is a environmental view of a lotion applicator  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 2  is a top perspective view of a lotion applicator  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 3   a  is a bottom perspective view of the lotion applicator  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 3   b  is a bottom cut-away view of the lotion applicator  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 4  is a bottom perspective view of the lotion applicator  10 , according to the alternate embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 5   a  is a top perspective view of the lotion applicator  10 , according to the alternate embodiment of the present invention; and, 
       FIG. 5   b  is a top perspective view of the lotion applicator  10 , according to the alternate embodiment of the present invention. 
   

   
     
       
             
           
             
             
           
         
             
                 
             
             
               DESCRIPTIVE KEY 
             
             
                 
             
           
           
             
                 
             
           
        
         
             
               10 
               lotion applicator 
             
             
               20 
               application pad 
             
             
               21 
               application pad bottom and side cover 
             
             
               22 
               application pad top cover 
             
             
               23 
               application pad sponge 
             
             
               25 
               protrusion 
             
             
               30 
               reservoir 
             
             
               32 
               open front face 
             
             
               33 
               closing cap 
             
             
               35 
               dispersing aperture 
             
             
               40 
               strap 
             
             
               50 
               hook fastener 
             
             
               51 
               loop fastener 
             
             
               52 
               snap button 
             
             
               53 
               grip 
             
             
               60 
               lotion 
             
             
               70 
               beads or rollers 
             
             
               100 
               user 
             
             
                 
             
           
        
       
     
   
   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
   The best mode for carrying out the invention is presented in terms of its preferred embodiment, herein depicted within  FIGS. 1 through 3   b , with an alternate embodiment depicted within  FIGS. 4 through 5   b . However, the invention is not limited to the described embodiment, and a person skilled in the art will appreciate that many other embodiments of the invention are possible without deviating from the basic concept of the invention, and that any such work around will also fall under scope of this invention. It is envisioned that other styles and configurations of the present invention can be easily incorporated into the teachings of the present invention, and only one particular configuration shall be shown and described for purposes of clarity and disclosure and not by way of limitation of scope. 
   The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. 
   The present invention describes a device and method that discloses a lotion applicator  10  for the application of lotions  60 , balms, creams, and the like to the skin of a person, especially the back area or other hard-to-reach areas. The lotion applicator (herein described as the “device”)  10  comprises an application pad  20 , an internal tube-like reservoir  30  comprising a plurality of dispersing apertures  35 , and straps  40 . The main components such as the pad  20  are envisioned to be fabricated of a terry cloth or other similar material enveloping a sponge or foam pad or the like that would be cut to size and sewn together; however, the device  10  can be fabricated out of any material or combination thereof from absorbent and stretchable to abrasive. However, the materials utilized for the device  10  are envisioned to be made from any suitable flexible material having a comfortable degree of porosity whilst still being absorbent, soft, and comfortable and providing structural integrity and strength for continuous and repeated use. It is also envisioned that multiple colors and styles would be made available to match all bathroom decors or the like. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 1 , an environmental view of the device  10  is disclosed according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention. The device  10  comprises an application pad  20 , a reservoir  30 , an open front face  32 , a closing cap  33 , and straps  40 . 
   Referring now to  FIG. 2 , a top perspective view of the device  10  is disclosed according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention. The device  10  is envisioned to comprise an application pad  20  that is substantially rectangular with two (2) opposed longitudinal sides, two (2) opposed lateral sides, a top side, and a bottom side. The application pad  20  is envisioned to be fabricated of rectangular-shaped application pad sponge  23  in a plurality of dimensions; however, the application pad  20  may also comprise a plurality of protrusions  25  (see  FIG. 3   a ) such as, but not limited to: cylindrical, square, or other shapes. The application pad top cover  22  is comprised of terry cloth or the like and is envisioned to be the lotioning surface. The application pad bottom and side cover  21  comprises terry cloth or the like and is envisioned to be coated with a waterproof sealant to keep the lotion  60  from saturating the side that would not see use. The application pad top cover  22  and the application pad bottom and side cover  21  envelope an application pad sponge  23  or pad for applying lotions  60 , gels, liquid soaps, body wash, balms, creams, oils, and similar substances and a reservoir  30  that contains and distributes the lotions  60 , gels, liquid soaps, body wash, balms, creams, oils and similar substances throughout the application pad sponge  23  and thereby throughout the application pad top cover  22 . The terry cloth or other fabricated surface is preferably washable allowing a user to selectively apply lotions  60 , gels, liquid soaps, body wash, balms, creams, oils, or other substances. Alternatively, the bottom side and/or the longitudinal and lateral sides may comprise protuberances  25  or the like to utilize as a massaging device. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 3   a , a bottom perspective view, and  FIG. 3   b , a cut-away bottom view (section A-A from  FIG. 3 ) of the device  10 , are disclosed according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention. The device  10  comprises an application pad  20 , an application pad top cover  22 , an application pad bottom and side cover  21 , an application pad sponge  23  enclosing a reservoir  30 , a reservoir open front face  32 , and a closing cap  33 . 
   The application pad  20  is envisioned to comprise a reservoir  30  that contains the ability and capacity to store and dispense lotion  60 . The reservoir  30  retains a quantity of lotion  60  or the like therewithin for directing and subsequent application of the lotion  60  onto an individual utilizing a plurality of dispersing apertures  35  integrally distributed thereon. A plurality of dispersing apertures  35  is operably positioned therealong the partial or complete span of said reservoir  30 . The dispersing apertures  35  are preferably, but not essentially, spaced therealong the top side of the application pad  20 . The reservoir  30  is envisioned to resemble a soft, flexible tubing that can be refilled with lotion  60 , soap, cream, and so on. The reservoir  30  defines an interior compartment for housing the lotion  60  with an open front face  32  for receiving refillable lotions  60  or other desirable fluids. The reservoir  30  comprises an open front face  32  to permit introduction of a lotion  60  interiorly therein the reservoir  30 , and hence the application pad  20 . The open front face  32  of the reservoir  30  comprises an outer wall defining a threaded or grooved region positioned at the upper opening for receiving and cooperating with the enlarged end portion of a closing cap  33  to secure in place. The closing cap  33  comprises an inside wall defining a bore for receiving the threaded region of the open front face  32 . The enlarged end portion of the closing cap  33  engages the threaded region thereby closing the open front face  32  of the reservoir  30 . 
   Straps  40  are affixed thereto on each side of the application pad  20  by means of sewing, seaming, adhering, or other embedded means. The straps  40 , permanently attached thereto the application pad  20 , are envisioned to be a plurality of lengths, widths, and/or other dimensions. The straps  40  are preferably, but not essentially, elastic, comprising of one (1) or more pieces of durable and resilient material. The straps  40  are envisioned to comprise two (2) ends, a distal end and a proximal end. The proximal end is attached thereto the respective side of the application pad  20  and the distal end may also comprise attachment means thereon each end, such as, but not limited to, hook-and-loop fasteners  50  and  51 , snaps  52 , or the like to attach one (1) strap  40  with the other to form a loop to suspend on fixtures such as a hook, for example, for hanging or holding for storage when not in use, for the quick drying of device  10 , for hanging the device  10  as decoration, or fragrantly odorize the air with essence when fragrant items are placed therein the device  10  if desiring to utilize the device  10  as an air freshener. 
   The device  10  may also be introduced with a variety of aesthetically pleasing décor and/or motifs with or without images such as, but not limited to, cartoon characters, sport logos, and/or other caricatures. The application pad  20  may also be introduced in a variety of shapes and sizes with or without the option of it being fashioned to resemble effects such as, but not limited to, animals, characters, and/or other images. The device  10  may be introduced in a plurality of shapes capable of enclosing a reservoir  30 . 
   Referring now to  FIG. 4 ,  FIG. 5   a , and  FIG. 5   b , top perspective views of the device  10  are disclosed according to alternate embodiments of the present invention. It is envisioned that the application pad  20  comprises an application pad top cover  22 , and an application pad bottom and side cover  21 , which can be provided with a plurality of textured qualities in a variety of and/or combination of materials which may permit said pad  20  to be interchangeably used as a bathing or massaging device. For example, one (1) side of the application pad  20  may comprise a softer material with the opposing side comprising material slightly more abrasive. The abrasive side may be prepared by utilizing protuberances  25  of various sizes and shapes, such as, but not limited to: conical, rounded, other desirable shapes, and a combination thereof. The protuberances  25  may be facing inward or outward with regards to the reservoir  30 . The material is also envisioned to permit water passage therethrough the application pad top cover  22  for procuring a lathering effect during utilization of device  10 . The textured application pad  20  type and size are envisioned to vary in accordance with the type of lotion  60 , release rate of lotion  60  or other substance, capability of rinsing with ease, amount of lather desired, and/or other user preferences. The straps  40  may also be removably affixed to the application pad  20  by means such as but not limited to hook and loop fasteners  50  and  51 , snap buttons  52 , or the like. Also, the device  10  may be used as a massaging agent by means of massaging beads  70 , balls, or other objects integrated on one (1) or more sides of the application pad  20  to provide a quick, convenient therapeutic massage. 
   Another alternate embodiment of the present invention may provide handles integrally attached at the distal end of the straps  40  such that the user may more easily hold to motion the application pad  20  to both clean and massage the back or other hard-to-reach places of the body. The handles may further comprise a sleeve or the like providing a soft, comfortable grasping surface for the user. 
   The preferred embodiment of the present invention can be utilized by the common user in a simple and effortless manner with little or no training. After initial purchase or acquisition of the device  10 , it would be configured as indicated in  FIGS. 1 ,  2 , and  3   a.    
   The method of utilizing the preferred embodiment of the device  10  may be achieved by performing the following steps: grasping one (1) end of the first strap  40  with the first hand; lifting and/or flinging the device  10  over one (1) shoulder and then down over the back of the user  100 ; grasping one (1) end of the second strap  40  with the second hand such that the application pad top cover  22  is against user&#39;s  100  back; motioning the application pad  20  over the back of the user by gliding upwardly, downwardly, sidewardly, rotationally, and a plurality of other directions by moving the arms, consequently the straps  40 , in unison and/or keeping one (1) arm stationary and motioning the opposing arm; releasing the first or second hand off of the first or second strap  40 ; bringing forth the device  10  to the front of the body; rinsing or cleaning the application pad  20 , if needed; refilling the reservoir  30  with lotion  60  or other desirable fluid, if needed; and, storing appropriately. 
   The device  10  is envisioned to administer measured amounts of lotions  60 , gels, liquid soaps, body wash, balms, creams, oils, and/or similar substances to the back and/or other hard-to-reach areas such as, but not limited to, neck, shoulders, legs, and the like of the user. Unique motions are used to manipulate on the desired skin surfaces for the application of lotions  60 . In use, the straps  40  are grasped in both hands with the application pad  20  comprising a predetermined quantity of lotion  60  directed within the reservoir  30 . The reservoir  30  resides therein the application pad  20  and is preferably flexible for easy manipulation, refillable, and washable. The reservoir  30  comprises a plurality of dispersing apertures  35  for lotion  60  to flow therethrough to saturate the application pad  20  to deliver a measured quantity of the lotion  60 , massage, rub, and/or exfoliate the user. The application pad  20  collects the dispensed lotion  60  therefrom the dispersing apertures  35  and said pad  20  absorbs to reduce and minimize excess lotion  60  from escaping during application thereon the desired skin surface. 
   Essentially, the device  10  is utilized for the application, dispensing, and affection of the application of the lotion  60  to skin areas, specifically hard-to-reach areas  15  such as, but not limited to, the back, shoulders, and legs. The application pad  20  is sized and designed for a smooth and comfortable application while still being washable and easily stored. 
   The alternate embodiment of the present invention can be utilized by the common user in a simple and effortless manner with little or no training. After initial purchase or acquisition of the device  10 , it would be configured as indicated in  FIGS. 1 ,  4 , and  5   a  and  5   b.    
   The method of utilizing the alternate embodiment of the device  10  may be achieved by performing the following steps: grasping one (1) end of the first strap  40  with the first hand; lifting and/or flinging the device  10  over one (1) shoulder and then down over the back of the user  100 ; grasping one (1) end of the second strap  40  with the second hand such that the application pad bottom and side cover  21  is against user&#39;s  100  back; motioning the application pad  20  over the back of the user by gliding upwardly, downwardly, sidewardly, rotationally, and a plurality of other directions by moving the arms, consequently the straps  40 , in unison and/or keeping one (1) arm stationary and motioning the opposing arm; releasing the first or second hand off of the first or second strap  40 , thereby providing the desired massage. 
   The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention and method of use to the precise forms disclosed. Obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, and to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omissions or substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstance may suggest or render expedient, but is intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims of the present invention.