Abstract:
Applicators provide heat shields for uncovered skin, in particular the face, hands, and other body parts that may not be clothed such as arms, legs, or torso. In one embodiment, a continuous heat shield is applied the entire face and ears. In another embodiment, a heat shield is applied to portions of the face and neck. In yet another embodiment, a heat shield is applied by multiple applicators. Sets of applicators apply a portion of a contiguous heat shield. Books contain multiple sets of applicators. Camouflage is used for military concealment. Other uses include firefighting, iron working, glass blowing and cooking. Entrained ceramic particles provide heat reflection and insulation.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §199(e) of the co-pending U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 61/069,214, filed Mar. 12, 2008, entitled “Face, Hand, and Skin Camouflage”. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND  
       [0002]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0003]    This invention relates to heat shields applied directly to uncovered skin, in particular the face, hands, and other body parts that may not be clothed such as arms, legs, or torso. 
         [0004]    2. Overview 
         [0005]    There is a need for hunters and soldiers to completely camouflage themselves to avoid detection. Both hunters and soldiers have successfully used camouflaged clothing and hats to camouflage most of their bodies and their equipment; however, for various reasons it is not practical to cover the face, which contains the eyes, ears, nose, and mouth, or sometimes the hands, arms, legs, and torso. The lack of comfortable, practical camouflage for the uncovered skin such as the face, ears, hands, and so forth results in unwanted detection by prey or enemies. 
         [0006]    There is a need for hunters, soldiers, actors, sports fanatics, and costume wearers to apply one of many predetermined color patterns to their skin, in particular, their face, hands and other body parts that may not be clothed such as arms, legs, or torso. There is also a need for makers of camouflage patterns to create market awareness for their particular patterns. 
         [0007]    There is a need for soldiers, firemen, glass blowers, metal workers, and others in occupations that are at high risk of fire, bombs and other high heat issues to wear heat protective clothing. Soldiers, for example, must wear special heat protective clothing while in the field outside of the safe areas because they are exposed to improvised explosive devices (IEDs) as roadside bombs that can reach temperatures of up to several thousand degrees Fahrenheit. 
         [0008]    3. Prior Art 
         [0009]    Development of camouflage patterns, especially in the hunting market has become a relatively large and competitive business. Various brands of camouflage designs such as Mossy Oak, Real Tree, and Predator, compete to have their camouflage patterns adopted for use in hunting clothing and equipment. 
         [0010]    Different methods and devices have been developed in an attempt to camouflage uncovered skin. These include the use of face paint, or makeup, and fabric masks, or netting. 
         [0011]    Face paint may come in the form of small bottles, tubes, or sticks. Makeup kits with multiple partitions and two sided sticks are commonly used to provide two or more camouflage colors. However the design must be drawn from scratch by hand, usually by the wearer on the wearer&#39;s own face. Face paint and makeup have several disadvantages, including being odorous, greasy, heavy, hot, sticky, messy, imprecise, time-consuming to apply and remove, and difficult to remove. When hunting, scent is a major concern because prey can detect the odor from the face paint. Face paint and makeup is messy and can damage expensive clothing or equipment. Because it is greasy, heavy, hot and sticky it is uncomfortable to wear. It is difficult to apply and imprecise in its results. 
         [0012]    Face concealment devices include various fabric masks, buffs, neck sleeves, and camouflaged netting designed to hang from a hat or wrap around the head. Conventional face concealment devices have several disadvantages, including being heavy, hot, obstructive, disruptive, and expensive. A fabric mask for example may block a hunter&#39;s vision, catch on branches, or disrupt the movement of a bow string. A thick fabric covering the ears distorts the hearing of the wearer. 
         [0013]    More recently, some have attempted to apply camouflage to various portions of the face with pieces of vinyl with reusable adhesive. These have several disadvantages including being uncomfortable, non-breathable, hot, obstructive and disruptive. 
         [0014]    Although they have not been used previously as skin camouflage, temporary tattoos are used in a different field for other purposes. Temporary tattoos typically contain small images such as a miniature flag or a small butterfly. A temporary tattoo is made by printing one or more small images on a special backing paper or film that is processed with multiple layers of coating. See U.S. Pat. No. 4,169,169. Typically, the first layer applied to the backing is a sizing agent, the second layer is a non-stick silicon release coating, and the third layer is a transfer film composed of gelatin or other polymeric material. The pigments are printed on the transfer film. With a decal-style temporary tattoo, the paper is moistened to release the transfer film, which may be applied to the skin. 
         [0015]    Temporary tattoos are conventionally applied to relatively flat, small areas on the cheeks, arms, legs, or back, but have not been used to cover large, uneven surfaces of the body such as the entire face or hands and fingers. 
         [0016]    More recently waterless tattoos have been developed which place the pigment in a translucent adhesive substrate. See U.S. Pat. No. 4,594,276. The adhesive substrate has peel off paper on one side which when removed allows the adhesive side to be attached to the skin. The backing can be plastic film that is removed after the adhesive substrate has been pressed on the skin. 
         [0017]    What is needed is a means of applying one of many predetermined camouflaged patterns to uncovered skin, in particular the face, hands, and other body parts that may not be clothed such as arms, legs, or torso, without being, odorous, greasy, heavy, hot, sticky, messy, imprecise, time-consuming to apply and remove, difficult to remove, obstructive, disruptive, or expensive. 
         [0018]    What is needed is a means of applying skin heat protection that is flexible, breathable, sweat-through, and comfortable to uncovered skin, in particular the face, hands, and other body parts that may not be clothed such as arms, legs, or torso, without being, odorous, greasy, heavy, hot, sticky, messy, imprecise, time-consuming to apply and remove, difficult to remove, obstructive, disruptive, or expensive. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0019]    Accordingly, it is an objective of the present invention to provide a new use of temporary tattoo devices and process to apply one of many predetermined camouflaged patterns to uncovered skin, in particular the face, hands, and other body parts that may not be clothed such as arms, legs, or torso. 
       Objects and Advantages 
       [0020]    Accordingly, beside the objects and advantages described above, some additional objects and advantages of the present invention are:
   1. To provide a comfortable and practical means of camouflaging a face.   2. To provide a comfortable and practical means of camouflaging a hand.   3. To provide a comfortable and practical means of camouflaging unclothed body parts.   4. To provide a more precise means of applying a predetermined pattern over a large area of human skin.   5. To provide a more efficient method of applying a predetermined pattern over a large area of human skin.   6. To provide a method of matching skin camouflage with the wearer&#39;s apparel.   7. To provide a method of applying a continuous pattern across the apparel and uncovered skin of a wearer.   8. To provide a method of creating a camouflage pattern from a plurality of camouflage elements such as leaves and branches.   9. To provide a method of applying precise, efficient, and consistent face or body makeup for a stage actor.   10. To provide a method of applying precise, efficient, and consistent face or body makeup for a video actor.   11. To provide a method of applying precise, efficient, and consistent face or body design for a costume.   12. To provide a method of applying precise, efficient, and consistent face or body design for a sports fanatic.   13. To provide a method of applying precise, efficient, and uniform face or body design for a member of a group, such as one participating a parade, protest, wedding or fundraiser.   14. To provide a skin camouflage that is easy to carry, apply, and remove.   15. To provide a skin camouflage with a long shelf life (storage period).   16. To provide a set of skin camouflage applicators having a matching camouflage pattern.   17. To provide a book of multiple sets of a single camouflage pattern.   18. To provide a book of multiple camouflage patterns, each in a set.   19. To provide a fascinating and effective tradeshow demonstration of a particular brand of camouflage pattern.   20. To provide a consistent pattern to be used by a military unit for a predetermined period of time.   21. To provide a method of applying long lasting sunburn protection for hunters, soldiers, and other outdoorsmen, athletes, and fans.   22. To provide a method of applying heat protection for firemen, soldiers, and others who are in the proximity of fire, bombs, etc.   
 
     
    
     
       DRAWING FIGURES 
         [0043]    In the drawings, closely related figures have the same number but different alphabetic suffixes. 
           [0044]      FIG. 1  shows a user. 
           [0045]      FIGS. 2A through 2D  illustrate various applicators that apply a pattern to the entire face including eyelids, lips; ears and nose. 
           [0046]      FIG. 3A  illustrates the application of a pattern to the face and nose. 
           [0047]      FIGS. 3B through 3D  illustrate applicators for applying a pattern to the hand, forearm, and upper-arm. 
           [0048]      FIGS. 4A and 4B  show the use of the application of multiple patterns which match the users apparel. 
           [0049]      FIG. 5  shows a continuous pattern applied to jacket, face, and hood. 
           [0050]      FIGS. 6A through 6I  illustrate alternate applicators that apply a pattern to portions of a face, nose, and neck. 
           [0051]      FIG. 7  illustrates shows the application a pattern to portions of a face, nose, and neck. 
           [0052]      FIGS. 8A and 8B  illustrate groups of applicators forming a set and a book consisting of multiple applicator sets. 
           [0053]      FIGS. 9A through 9C  illustrate application of a matching pattern by using a plurality of applicators having different elements of the pattern to be matched. 
           [0054]      FIGS. 9D through 9G  illustrate examples of alternate pattern elements. 
           [0055]      FIGS. 10A through 10F  illustrate structural views of wet and dry applicators. 
       
    
    
     REFERENCE NUMERALS IN DRAWINGS 
       [0056]      
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 100 
                 user 
               
               
                 102 
                 first eyelid 
               
               
                 104 
                 second eyelid 
               
               
                 106 
                 nose 
               
               
                 108 
                 lips 
               
               
                 110 
                 face 
               
               
                 112 
                 chin 
               
               
                 114 
                 neck 
               
               
                 122 
                 first cheek 
               
               
                 124 
                 second cheek 
               
               
                 130 
                 first ear 
               
               
                 140 
                 second ear 
               
               
                 200 
                 face applicator 
               
               
                 202 
                 first eyelid tab 
               
               
                 204 
                 second eyelid tab 
               
               
                 206 
                 nose cutout 
               
               
                 208 
                 lip cutout 
               
               
                 210 
                 nose applicator 
               
               
                 211 
                 nose fold 
               
               
                 212 
                 first chin dart 
               
               
                 214 
                 second chin dart 
               
               
                 216 
                 first hairline 
               
               
                 218 
                 second hairline 
               
               
                 222 
                 first ear marker 
               
               
                 224 
                 second ear marker 
               
               
                 230 
                 first ear applicator 
               
               
                 232 
                 first ear tabs 
               
               
                 (a-f) 
               
               
                 240 
                 second ear applicator 
               
               
                 242 
                 second ear tabs 
               
               
                 (a-f) 
               
               
                 250 
                 wide nose applicator 
               
               
                 300 
                 user showing arms 
               
               
                 302 
                 hand 
               
               
                 304 
                 forearm 
               
               
                 306 
                 upper-arm 
               
               
                 310 
                 hand applicator 
               
               
                 320 
                 forearm applicator 
               
               
                 (a-b) 
               
               
                 330 
                 upper-arm applicator 
               
               
                 (a-b) 
               
               
                 332 
                 hand applicator section 
               
               
                 (a-i) 
               
               
                 340 
                 alternate hand applicator 
               
               
                 342 
                 palm applicator 
               
               
                 344 
                 index finger applicator 
               
               
                 346 
                 middle finger applicator 
               
               
                 348 
                 ring finger applicator 
               
               
                 350 
                 pinky finger applicator 
               
               
                 352 
                 finger applicator alignment points 
               
               
                 (a-d) 
               
               
                 354 
                 palm applicator section 
               
               
                 (a-i) 
               
               
                 400 
                 hunting pattern 
               
               
                 410 
                 military pattern 
               
               
                 500 
                 pattern continuity 
               
               
                 550 
                 coat/jacket 
               
               
                 560 
                 hat/hood 
               
               
                 600 
                 first half-face applicator 
               
               
                 602 
                 second half-face applicator 
               
               
                 606 
                 half nose cutout 
               
               
                 (a-b) 
               
               
                 608 
                 half mouth cutout 
               
               
                 (a-b) 
               
               
                 612 
                 first chin dart 
               
               
                 614 
                 second chin dart 
               
               
                 620 
                 neck applicator 
               
               
                 640 
                 alternate half-face applicator 
               
               
                 642 
                 second alternate half-face 
               
               
                   
                 applicator 
               
               
                 650 
                 first half-brow applicator 
               
               
                 652 
                 second half-brow applicator 
               
               
                 654 
                 eyelid cutout 
               
               
                 (a-b) 
               
               
                 800 
                 applicator set 
               
               
                 (a-c) 
               
               
                 801 
                 nose page 
               
               
                 810 
                 front matter 
               
               
                 820 
                 book 
               
               
                 830 
                 book container 
               
               
                 910 
                 leaf element 
               
               
                 (a-b) 
               
               
                 920 
                 branch element 
               
               
                 (a-b) 
               
               
                 1004  
                 dry release layer 
               
               
                 1006  
                 film layer 
               
               
                 1008  
                 pigment layer 
               
               
                 1010  
                 adhesive layer 
               
               
                 1012  
                 peel off layer 
               
               
                 1014  
                 wet release layer 
               
               
                 1016  
                 solute layer 
               
               
                 1018  
                 opaque layer 
               
               
                 1020  
                 heat shield layer 
               
               
                 1022  
                 ceramic bubbles 
               
               
                 1024  
                 adhesive/heat shield layer 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
       SPECIAL DEFINITIONS 
       [0057]    face—human surface tissue between the ears and between the hairline, and the bottom of the jaw, including the eyelids, nose, and lips. 
         [0058]    applicator—a device for applying a predetermined pattern of pigments to human skin. 
       DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0059]    The present invention comprises a plurality of applicators that collectively apply a predetermined pattern to a relative large area of uncovered skin, such as the face, hands, and other body parts that may not be clothed such as arms, legs, or torso. 
         [0060]    In a preferred embodiment, the applicators apply a predetermined pattern of pigments to human skin. The predetermined pattern may be any one of a plurality of camouflage patterns. A number of patterns are available with high resolution printing. 
       FIG.  1 —User 
       [0061]      FIG. 1  shows a user  100 . The user  100  has a face  110  including eyelids ( 102 ,  104 ), nose  106 , lips  108 , chin  112 , and cheeks ( 122 ,  124 ). The neck  114  and ears ( 130 ,  140 ). 
         [0062]    If the user  100  is a hunter or soldier, uncovered portions of the body, such as the face  110 , neck  114 , ears ( 130 ,  140 ), and hands  302  ( FIG. 3B ) are easily detected by prey or enemies. These parts of the body are constantly moving (which is part of the reason they are more comfortably left uncovered) making unwanted detection even more of a problem. 
       FIGS.  2 A Through  2 D—Skin Camouflage Applicators 
       [0063]      FIG. 2  shows an arrangement of  FIGS. 2A through 2D , which illustrate various applicators that apply a pattern to the entire face  110  including eyelids ( 102 ,  104 ), nose  106 , lips  108 , chin  112 , and checks ( 122 ,  124 ), and ears ( 130 ,  140 ). 
         [0064]      FIG. 2A  illustrates a face applicator  200  comprising eyelid tabs ( 202 ,  204 ), nose cutout  206 , lip cutout  208 , chin darts ( 212 ,  214 ). Face applicator  200  features curves along the hairlines on each side ( 216 ,  218 , respectively). Optionally, the face applicator  200  comprises ear markers ( 222 ,  224 ) that help align the applicator on the face  110 . 
         [0065]    The eyelid tabs ( 202 ,  204 ) allow the user to more accurately apply the pattern to the eyelids ( 102 ,  104 , respectively). The eyelid tabs ( 202 ,  204 ) also allow the user to see through the applicator when using a mirror to self apply the pattern. 
         [0066]    The nose cutout  206  allows the rest of the face applicator  200  to pass over the nose and lie more smoothly along the skin. The nose cutout  206  also helps the user align the pattern to the face  110  using the nose  106  as a central anchor point. The lip cutout  208  allows the pattern to be applied to the lips. Both the nose cutout  206  and the lip cutout  208  allow the user to breath while applying the sheet to the face  110 . 
         [0067]    The chin darts ( 212 ,  214 ) allow the face applicator  200  to fold under around the chin  112  and along the jaw. The darts ( 212 ,  214 ) allow the face applicator  200  to form a 3-dimensional shape (see  FIG. 3A ). 
         [0068]      FIG. 2B  illustrates a nose applicator  210  having a nose fold  211 . The pattern on the nose applicator  210  is shown matching the missing portion from the nose cutout  206 . The pattern may be skewed (as shown) on the nose applicator  210  so that when applied to the 3-dimensional face  110  and nose  106 , the pattern appears the same. In this example, a branch passes diagonally across the face applicator  200  and one side of the nose applicator  210  has bark matching that portion of the branch. This is an example of an aspect of the invention where a continuous pattern is applied using more than one applicator. 
         [0069]      FIGS. 2C and 2E  illustrate respective ear applicators ( 230 ,  240 ). As shown in this illustration (e.g.  FIG. 2 ), the pattern on the respective ear applicators ( 230 ,  240 ) matches the overall pattern of the face applicator  200 . The ear markers ( 222 ,  224 ) aid the user in aligning the ear applicators with the pattern applied by the face. 
         [0070]    The ear applicators ( 230 ,  240 ) each comprises ear tabs ( 232   a  through  232   f,  and  242   a  through  242   f,  respectively), which allow the ear applicators ( 230 ,  240 ) to apply the pattern to the top and back of the ears ( 130 ,  140 ) and allow the ear applicators ( 230 ,  240 ) to fit different size ears. 
         [0071]    Another aspect of the invention is that the pigment and transfer substrate can contain UV sunburn protection. The nose  106  and tops of the ears ( 130 ,  140 ) are typically more susceptible to sunburn. 
       FIG.  3 A—Skin Camouflage Applied to the Face 
       [0072]      FIG. 3A  illustrates the application of a pattern to the face  110  and nose  106  using a two applicators. The nose applicator  210  is cut from a flat sheet and folded at the nose fold  211 . The face applicator  200  is cut from another flat sheet, with the various darts (e.g. skin darts  212  and  214 ), eyelid tabs ( 202 ,  204 ), nose cutout  206 , and lip cutout  208 . The 3-dimensional shape can be held, for example, by taping the darts closed. The face applicator  200  is then aligned over the nose  106  and pressed into place. The eyelid tabs ( 202 ,  204 ) are pressed on each respective eyelid ( 102 ,  104 ). The pattern is applied to the lips  108  using lip cutout  208  for added flexibility. 
         [0073]    The ear applicators ( 230 ,  240 ) are next aligned to the face pattern and applied to the respective ears (not shown in  FIG. 3A ). 
       FIGS.  3 B Through  3 D—Skin Camouflage Applied to the Hand and Arm 
       [0074]      FIG. 3B  illustrates applicators for applying a pattern to the hand  302 , forearm  304 , and upper-arm  306 . The user  300  is shown with arms and torso. The arm is shown comprising the hand  302 , the forearm  304 , and the upper-arm  306 . In this embodiment, the set of applicators includes a hand applicator  310 , forearm applicators  320  (shown as two separate sheets  320   a  and  320   b,  respectively), and upper-arm applicators  330  (shown as two separate sheets  330   a  and  330   b,  respectively). 
         [0075]      FIG. 3C  shows the hand applicator  310  comprising various hand applicator sections  332 ( a - i ) and darts so that the desired pattern is applied to the 3-dimensional surface of the hand with its thumb and fingers. 
         [0076]      FIG. 3D  shows an alternate hand applicator  340  comprising a palm applicator  342  which includes the thumb and  4  separate finger applicators: index finger applicator  344 , middle finger applicator  346 , ring finger applicator  348 , pinky finger applicator  350 . The palm applicator  342  comprises various palm applicator sections  354 ( a - i ) and darts so that the desired pattern is applied to the 3-dimensional surface of the hand with its thumb. Each finger applicator is applied to the palm applicator  340  at finger applicator alignment points  352 ( a - d ). Each corresponding finger applicator attaches to the corresponding finger applicator alignment point on the palm applicator  340 . More specifically, the index finger applicator  344  is aligned at finger applicator alignment points  352   a,  middle finger applicator  346  is aligned at finger applicator alignment points  352   b,  ring finger applicator  348  is aligned at finger applicator alignment points  352   c,  and pinky finger applicator  350  is aligned at finger applicator alignment points  352   d.    
         [0077]    Preferable the various applicators in a pattern set  800  are comprised of standard sized sheets, such as, for example, 8½×11 inch sheets. 
       FIG.  4 —Multiple Patterns 
       [0078]      FIGS. 4A and 4B  show the use of the application of multiple patterns which match the users apparel.  FIG. 4A  shows the user after applying a hunting pattern  400  that matches his hunting apparel. In contrast,  FIG. 4B  shows the user after applying a military pattern  410  that matches his military apparel. 
         [0079]    There are many different camouflage patterns. For example, for the hunting pattern  400 , one company Mossy Oak, for example, has Break-Up®, Treestand®, Duck Blind®, Brush®, and Obsession®. Other companies provide other patterns. The military pattern  410  could be the tradition military camouflage, the new Universal Camouflage Pattern used by the U.S. Army, or military camouflage for snow, desert, or night operations. 
         [0080]    An aspect of the current invention is having a set  800  of applicators for each different camouflage pattern. 
       FIG.  5 —Continuous Pattern Across Skin and Apparel 
       [0081]      FIG. 5  shows pattern continuity  500  where a continuous pattern applied to jacket  550 , face  110 , and hood  560 . An aspect of the invention is that a continuous pattern is applied to the uncovered skin which matches the apparel being worn. 
       FIGS.  6 A Through  6 I—Skin Camouflage Applied to the Portions of the Face and Neck 
       [0082]      FIG. 6  shows another embodiment of an applicator set  800 , further shown in  FIG. 6A through 6D .  FIGS. 6A through 6D  illustrate alternate applicators that apply a pattern to portions of a face, nose, and neck. In this embodiment of the invention, the user  100  is wearing a hat with a brim, and does not need to have his forehead camouflaged. For improved ease of application, an applicator is provided for each half of the remaining face, i.e. first half-face applicator  600  ( FIG. 6A ), and second half-face applicator  602  ( FIG. 6B ). Each half-face applicator has a half nose cutout ( 606   a  and  606   b,  respectively), a half mouth cutout ( 608   a  and  608   b,  respectively), and a chin dart ( 612  and  614 , respectively). 
         [0083]      FIG. 6B  illustrates a nose applicator  210  ( FIG. 2B ).  FIG. 6G  illustrates an alternate, wide nose applicator  250  which is easier to apply resulting in smoother application across the contours of the nose and cheeks. Each contains a nose fold  211  down the center. 
         [0084]      FIG. 6  also shows a neck applicator  620  ( FIG. 6D ), which wraps around the neck  114  and covers a portion of the upper chest most like to be uncovered by most shirts and jackets  550 , and most susceptible to sunburn. Darts (not shown) allow the neck applicator  620  to better form to the 3-dimensional neck  114  and upper chest. 
         [0085]      FIG. 6H  and  FIG. 6I  illustrate the first half-brow applicator  650  and the second half-brow applicator  652  respectively, each containing an eyelid cutout  654 ( a - b ) respectively. While not shown in  FIG. 6 , these two applicators can be used in conjunction with the first half-face applicator  600  ( FIG. 6A ) and second half-face applicator  602  ( FIG. 6B ) when the user  100  is not wearing a hat with a brim and requires his forehead camouflaged (see  FIG. 7 ). 
       Incorporating Facial Hair 
       [0086]      FIGS. 6E and 6F  illustrate applicators that apply a pattern to a face of a man with a beard and mustache. Similar to the half-face applicators ( FIGS. 6A and 6C ), alternate half-face applicators ( 640  or  642 ) have cutouts allowing the user to place the camouflage around an existing beard or mustache. The user could create these shapes by cutting down the half-face applicators of  FIGS. 6A and 6C , or these applicators could be additional sheets in the applicator set (allowing the user to choose the ones that best meet his personal needs). 
         [0087]    If desired, the user could apply pigment over facial hair. 
       FIG.  7 —Skin Camouflage Applied to Portions of the Face and Neck 
       [0088]      FIG. 7  illustrates the application of a pattern to portions of a face  110 , nose  106 , and neck  114 . The nose applicator  210  applies the desired pattern to the nose  106 . The nose fold  211  should be centered on the nose  106 . The half-face applicators ( 600 ,  602 ) apply the desired pattern to respective portions of the face  110 . The half-brow applicators ( 650  or  652 ) apply the desired pattern to respective portions of the face  110 . The neck applicator  620  applies the desired pattern to the neck  114  and upper chest. 
       FIGS.  8 A and  8 B—Pattern Sets and Books of Sets 
       [0089]      FIGS. 8A and 8B  illustrate groups of applicators forming a set and a book consisting of multiple applicator sets. 
         [0090]      FIG. 8A  shows an exemplary applicator set  800  comprising a face applicator  200 , nose page  801  having a nose applicator  210 , a hand applicator  310 , a forearm applicator  320 , and both sheets of an upper-arm applicator  330  ( 330   a  and  330   b,  respectively). 
         [0091]      FIG. 8B  shows a book  820  comprising front matter  810  and multiple applicator sets ( 800   a,    800   b,    800   c,  for example). The book could have multiple copies of the same applicator set (as shown, for example, by two instances of  800   a,  and two instances of  800   b ) or could have multiple applicator sets  800  (each with a different pattern, e.g. one of  800   a,  one of  800   b,  one of  800   c,  and so forth). The book  10  is shown in a book container  830 . The book container could be a three ring binder, a water proof bag, a binder with a locking zipper seal, or a box with a snap closure. 
       FIGS.  9 A and  9 C—Multiple Pattern Elements 
       [0092]      FIGS. 9A through 9C  illustrate application of a matching pattern by using a plurality of applicators having different elements of the pattern to be matched. 
         [0093]    In this embodiment, the camouflage pattern is comprised of different elements, for example, green leaves, golden brown leaves, light branches, dark branches, brush, and so forth. Each of the elements is provided as separate applicators. 
         [0094]      FIG. 9A  shows an exemplary leaf element  910 .  FIG. 9B  shows an exemplary branch element  920 .  FIG. 9C  shows a user applying different branches  920   a,  across his face  110 , and  920   b,  around his neck  114 . Next, different leaf elements ( 910   a  and  910   b ) are applied. In this aspect of the invention, the user is able to place multiple elements to better match his apparel or create a custom layout using a combination of applicators to effectively camouflage the face. 
         [0095]    This invention anticipates that effect camouflage can be created without covering every square inch of skin, but by breaking up the lighter colors of the face with darker strips or elements. 
       FIGS.  9 D and  9 G—Additional Pattern Elements 
       [0096]      FIGS. 9D through 9G  illustrate examples of additional pattern elements.  FIG. 9D and 9E  illustrate leaves.  FIG. 9F  illustrates tree branches.  FIG. 9G  illustrates a lizard. 
       FIGS.  10 A Through  10 F—Structural Views of Wet and Dry Applicators 
       [0097]      FIGS. 10A through 10F  illustrate structural views of wet and dry applicators. Each view describes the layers that comprise the structure of an applicator. 
         [0098]      FIG. 10A  illustrates a dry applicator comprising, in sequence, dry release layer  1004 , film layer  1006 , pigment layer  1008 , adhesive layer  1010 , and a peel off layer  1012 . The dry release layer  1004  comprises backing paper or film that provides a foundation for the manufacturing process and protects the other layers during packaging, distribution, and application. The dry release layer  1004  is removed after the pigment is applied. The film layer  1006  is typically relatively thin and transparent and is the receiving layer for the pigment during the manufacturing process. After the pigment is applied to the skin, film layer  1006  becomes the outer layer and protects the pigment from easily rubbing off. The pigment layer  1008  is printed onto the film during the manufacturing process. The adhesive layer  1010  is applied directly to the skin and holds the pigment in place after the peel off layer  1012  is removed. Preferably, the adhesive is a medical adhesive which has be cleared by the FDA for long term application to human skin. Preferably, the film layer  1006 , pigment layer  1008 , and the adhesive layer  1010  are porous after application to the skin allowing the skin to breath and allowing sweat to pass through and evaporate. 
         [0099]    A dry applicator is used by optionally cutting the applicator to the desired size and shape; removing the peel off layer  1012 , applying the remaining layers with the adhesive layer  1010  toward the skin, pressing the remaining layers against the skin, and then removing the dry release layer  1004 . 
         [0100]      FIG. 10B  illustrates a wet applicator comprising, in sequence, wet release layer  1014 , solute layer  1016 , film layer  1006 , pigment layer  1008 , adhesive layer  1010 , and a peel off layer  1012 . Manufacturing and use of wet applicator is similar to the dry applicator. The wet release layer  1014  backing paper or film that provides a foundation for the manufacturing process and protects the other layers during packaging, distribution, and application. The wet release layer  1014  is coated with a solute layer  1016  (which is a sizing agent) and which dissolves when the applicator is wet with a solvent (which typically is water). The wet release layer  1014  is removed after the pigment is applied by dissolving the solute layer  1016 . The film layer  1006  is typically relatively thin and transparent and is the receiving layer for the pigment during the manufacturing process. After the pigment is applied to the skin, film layer  1006  becomes the outer layer and protects the pigment from easily rubbing off. The pigment layer  1008  is printed onto the film during the manufacturing process. The adhesive layer  1010  is applied directly to the skin and holds the pigment in place after the peel off layer  1012  is removed. Preferably, the adhesive is a medical adhesive which has been cleared by the FDA for long-term application to human skin. Preferably, the film layer  1006 , pigment layer  1008 , and the adhesive layer  1010  are porous after application to the skin allowing the skin to breath and allowing sweat to pass through and evaporate. 
         [0101]    A wet applicator is used by optionally cutting the applicator to the desired size and shape; removing the peel off layer  1012 , applying the remaining layers with the adhesive layer  1010  toward the skin, pressing the remaining layers against the skin, and then removing the wet release layer  1014  by dissolving the solute layer  1016  with water. 
         [0102]      FIG. 10C  illustrates an alternate applicator comprising, in sequence, film layer  1006 , pigment layer  1008 , opaque layer  1018 , adhesive layer  1010 , and a peel off layer  1012 . In practice, with some printing methods, the pigment layer is thin and allows the color of the skin to show through. For some situations where the true color of the predetermined pigment pattern is desired, regardless of skin color, the opaque layer  1018  preserves the desired appearance of the pigment. The opaque layer could be an extra layer of white pigment or could be a predominate base color, for example the base color of a three or four color military camouflage pattern. 
         [0103]      FIG. 10D  illustrates an extreme heat resistant applicator comprising, in sequence, film layer  1006 , pigment layer  1008 , heat shield layer  1020 , adhesive layer  1010 , and peel off layer  1012 . The heat shield layer  1020  comprises of heat reflective and insulating particles similar to the ceramic used to make the Space Shuttle heat shield tiles. Relatively small ceramic bubbles  1022  are commercially available as a white powder which can mixed into paint to provide heat resistance. Our novel extreme heat resistant applicator combines heat reflective particles, such as the ceramic bubbles  1022 , with the other layers. The ceramic bubbles  1022  in the heat shield layer  1020  provide heat resistant characteristics and allows the heat shield layer to also serve as an alternative form of the opaque layer  1018 . 
         [0104]      FIG. 10E  illustrates an alternate heat resistant applicator comprising, in sequence, film layer  1006 , pigment layer  1008 , adhesive/heat shield layer  1024 , and a peel off layer  1012 . In this embodiment, the adhesive layer  1010  entrains ceramic bubbles  1022  in the adhesive to provide heat resistant characteristics allowing for a thicker layer. 
         [0105]      FIG. 10F  illustrates an pigment free heat resistant applicator comprising, in sequence, film layer  1006 , adhesive/heat shield layer  1024 , and a peel off layer  1012 . As in  FIG. 10E , the adhesive/heat shield layer  1024  combines ceramic bubbles  1022  with the adhesive to provide heat resistant characteristics. This is ideal for anyone requiring heat resistance without the need for camouflage, such as firefighters, metal workers, glassblowers, or cooks. 
       Other Uses 
       [0106]    While the descriptions of the various embodiments have been made in reference to hunting and military uses, the present invention could also be used for other activities such as makeup for stage and video actors, costume wearers, sport fanatics, or groups of people who want a uniform appearance. 
         [0107]    In the example of a long running stage production, multiple predetermined patterns are applied to multiple actors each day, each pattern could be embodied in a set of applicators and mass produced. Use the methods disclosed above, the pattern could be applied to each respective actor and touched up as needed with makeup. This would significantly reduce the time and cost associated with applying the daily stage makeup. The mass produced applicators could be licensed to traveling versions of the show, local theater groups, and high schools along with the scripts and scores. 
         [0108]    In the example of a feature film, video is shot over a period of many days or months; however it is important the appearance of the actors have continuity. For example, if a character is cut in a fight, a scar needs to appear in the same place in all the scenes that appear after the fight chronologically, and should not appear in any scenes that appear before the fight. However, because of different set locations and the use of sound stages, scenes are not shot on the same day and are not shot in chronological order. Some scenes require multiple days of shooting video from different angles. This invention can be used to create predetermined patterns which are applied to multiple actors each day. This would significantly reduce the time and cost associated with applying the daily film makeup and would insure continuity of the precise features, e.g. of a scar, and placement, e.g. the same place. 
         [0109]    In the example of costume wearers, there is a large market for certain Halloween, Marti Gras, Carnival, or other costumes. For example, Captain Jack Sparrow from Disney&#39;s Pirates of the Caribbean is a very popular Halloween costume. A design having the Captain Jack&#39;s entire face could be mass produced and sold along with beard, jewelry, and clothing. 
         [0110]    In the example of sport fanatics, conventionally some fans paint their face or chest and may apply small decals with the sports logo. With one aspect of the current invention, a precise, high quality team logo could be applied across the entire face, or across the chests of a series of fans with high quality letters and accurate colors. 
         [0111]    In the examples of groups of people who want a uniform appearance, people in a protest could all have a flag of a suppressed group applied to their faces; people in a St. Patrick&#39;s Day parade could have shamrocks on their faces; people walking to raise money for a cause could each have a pink ribbon on their face and arms and continuing on a t-shirt. 
         [0112]    In the example, of a camouflage pattern licensor, top professional hunters and tradeshow models could be dressed apparel in the latest pattern with any uncovered skin continuously applied with the same, matching pattern. The professional hunters could stand in front of a wall or blind made in the same pattern. The models could have a large percentage of their body covered in skin camouflage prepared specifically for the tradeshow demonstration impact. The models could walk around the tradeshow floor or work in the both. Complimentary applicators could be given away as promotional items. 
         [0113]    In the case where a military unit is involved in an activity for a specific period of time, every member of the unit could be given a particular set of applicators, so that members of the unit can recognize each other by unique features of the pattern. The pattern could be switched at certain times. 
       Variety of Applicators 
       [0114]    The applicators of the present invention could be implemented in with various processes. For some use the conventional water release decal-type temporary tattoo could be used to apply the pigment. For other uses the new waterless temporary tattoo would be preferred. Other devices and processes are also anticipated. For example, the predetermined pattern of pigment could be infused into a plastic film or substrate that could be used to repeatedly apply the pigment (similar to a self inking stamp). 
       Advantages 
     Simple 
       [0115]    The present invention is simple to make and use. The present invention significantly reduces the time to put on. 
       Easy to Use 
       [0116]    The present invention is easy to use. 
       Comfortable 
       [0117]    Unlike conventional method of face and hand concealment, the present invention is comfortable to wear, and can be worn for long periods of times. 
       Breathable 
       [0118]    The present invention allows the skin to breath. 
       Effective 
       [0119]    The applicators and methods of the present invention are effective. 
       Efficient 
       [0120]    The use of the present invention is efficient. A predetermined pattern can be quickly applied with high quality appearance and effect. 
       Quality and Precision 
       [0121]    The applicators and methods of the present invention result in a high quality, precisely detailed and placed pattern of pigment that is not achieved with conventional face paint or makeup kits. 
       Marketing 
       [0122]    The present invention is highly marketable as products for field use and also has exciting implications for tradeshows and promotions. 
       Safe 
       [0123]    Because of the vision and movement of the user is not blocked or disturbed by this means of face or hand concealment, the user will be safer. The hunter will be less likely to trip and fall, or get branches or equipment caught. The child in a Halloween costume will be safer (and more comfortable) that wearing traditional masks that can obscure vision. 
         [0124]    The pigments or adhesives used are cleared by the FDA and comply with FDA regulations. 
       Quiet 
       [0125]    The present invention allows a hunter or soldier to move through the brush more quietly by avoiding stepping on branches or leaves, and by reducing snags on branches. 
       Quick 
       [0126]    The present invention can be quickly applied and removed. 
       Clean 
       [0127]    Unlike the greasy mess and damage cause by conventional face paint or makeup, the present invention is relatively clean. 
         [0128]    Unlike face paint or makeup, the invention has relatively little odor or scent. 
       Better Appearance 
       [0129]    Conventional methods result in an inconsistent, less pleasing appearance. 
       Cost Effective 
       [0130]    Because the applicators, sets, and books can be made relatively inexpensively, the present invention is cost effective. They can be applied by the user, without having to have an “artist” take the time to create the pattern upon each application. 
       Long Storage Period 
       [0131]    The applicators of the present invention are easy to store and should have a long shelf life. 
       Sunburn Protection 
       [0132]    The pigment and transfer substrate can provide long lasting (multi-day) sunburn protection for the uncovered skin of the user. 
       Extreme Heat Protection 
       [0133]    The ceramic bubbles can provide heat protection for the uncovered skin of the user. 
       Conclusion, Ramification, and Scope 
       [0134]    Accordingly, the present invention provides an easy to use, simple, safe, comfortable, efficient, and effective means for concealing the face or hands of a user. 
         [0135]    While the above descriptions contain several specifics these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as examples of some of the preferred embodiments thereof. Many other variations are possible. For example, the pattern can be broken up and applied by applicators or various sizes and shapes. Additionally, the applicators could be made of different materials or have additional features, or be used in different activities, without departing from the scope and spirit of the novel features of the present invention. 
         [0136]    Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined not by the illustrated embodiments, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.