Patent Publication Number: US-2022218094-A1

Title: An apparatus for applying makeup and use thereof

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a National Phase Entry of International Patent Application No. PCT/CA2020/050583, filed on May 1, 2020, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/841,550, filed May 1, 2019, both of which are incorporated by reference herein. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention relates generally to the beauty and/or grooming industry, and more particularly to an applicator including one or more replaceable and/or interchangeable heads adapted for applying different forms of makeup (e.g., liquid, cream, powder, etc.) and/or personal grooming. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Previously, makeup users may have been required to purchase separate makeup applicators for each type and form of makeup. This may have led to makeup cases overflowing with brushes and applicators, and no space available to store other products and/or accessories (e.g., makeup, skincare products, etc.). Additionally, many prior art makeup brushes may have long brush handles, making it difficult to store in makeup cases and especially challenging to travel with them. These long makeup brushes may typically stick out of makeup cases as they are too long for standard cases to allow for complete and/or proper closure. Furthermore, makeup users may have no choice but to discard makeup brushes and other applicators after much use and buy new makeup brushes and/or sponges. 
     Applicators of the prior art—which may have included the makeup brush kit described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,074,666 to Anisa International, Inc.—may have included interchangeable brush heads and/or a makeup brush kit comprised of a brush head, a ferrule and a handle, relying on multiple magnets to hold the brush head and handle together. The use of a magnetic locking system may make the brush heavier and/or uncomfortable for the user to hold during makeup application. In addition, magnetic locking systems may be unreliable. Magnets may not be secure enough for makeup application, as makeup application requires a user to apply force to the applicator tool (causing friction) and magnets may lose their magnetic attraction in this process causing the applicator handle and brush head to detach, potentially making the tool ineffective. Furthermore, if the brush detaches during the makeup application, the metal materials used may be abrasive and potentially cause injury to the user. Lastly, the use of metal components may be subject to rust over time. 
     What may be needed is an applicator with interchangeable heads that are securely attached during makeup application without the use of magnets. 
     Accordingly, there is a need for an improved makeup applicator adapted for use with interchangeable heads. What may be needed is an apparatus and/or method that overcomes one or more of the limitations associated with the prior art. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present invention includes a makeup applicator with at least one head that is replaceable and/or interchangeable using a reversible connector. The applicator preferably includes a stalk with a connector projecting from one or more ends. Preferably, the stalk and connector(s) are formed from a resilient material (e.g., silicone rubber). Each connector may project from the stalk and preferably includes a rim adapted to securely engage the brush and/or sponge heads. The brush and/or sponge heads are preferably composed of a resilient material (e.g., silicone rubber). The heads are preferably adapted to define a hollow base, or portion, for securely receiving the connectors. Attachment of the head(s) to the stalk preferably facilitates makeup application. The brush and/or sponge heads are preferably removed by the user when desired and replaced with a different brush head and/or sponge head or placed in storage. Different brush heads may be required to apply different forms of makeup (e.g., liquid, cream, powder, etc.) and/or apply makeup to different areas of the face (e.g., cheeks, eyes, etc.). 
     According to an aspect of one preferred embodiment of the invention, the applicator may reduce the number of makeup brush handles (or stalks) of a user which may result, for example, in an increase in space in the user&#39;s makeup case. This increase in space may be utilized for other products (i.e., allows a user to have one makeup applicator handle with multiple attachments). 
     According to an aspect of one preferred embodiment of the invention, the short length of the applicator may facilitate storage (e.g., makeup cases, small handbags, etc.) and portability. 
     According to an aspect of one preferred embodiment of the invention, old and/or damaged brushes and/or sponges may be replaced without discarding the entire system, which preferably results in cost savings to the user. 
     According to an aspect of one preferred embodiment of the invention, detachment and replacement of brush and/or sponge heads facilitates customization of the makeup applicator to suit the needs of the user while optimizing storage space. 
     According to an aspect of one preferred embodiment of the invention, the use of silicone as the resilient material facilitates hygiene and ease of cleaning (e.g., the entire system may be washed as compared to the brush hair and/or sponge tip of prior art applicators). 
     According to an aspect of one preferred embodiment of the invention, the use of silicone as the resilient material may reduce harm to the epidermis of the user during use. 
     According to an embodiment of the invention, there is provided an applicator for use by a user for applying makeup. The applicator includes a first head having a first attachment end with a first head wall defining a first attachment portion adapted to receive a first tool for makeup application; and a first engagement end having a first engagement wall defining a first receiving portion, the first engagement wall further defining a first channel within the first receiving portion. The applicator also includes a stalk having a first end and a second end. The stalk includes a first connector projecting from the first end of the stalk, the first connector adapted to be reversibly received within the first receiving portion of the first engagement end; and a first rim projecting from a surface of the first connector and adapted to be reversibly received within the first channel to securely attach the first head on the stalk when the applicator is in use by the user. 
     In an additional feature, the applicator further includes a second head having a second attachment end with a second head wall defining a second attachment portion adapted to receive a second tool for makeup application; and a second engagement end having a second engagement wall defining a second receiving portion, the second engagement wall further defining a second channel within the second receiving portion. The stalk includes a second connector projecting from the second end of the stalk, the second connector adapted to be reversibly received within the second receiving portion of the second engagement end; and a second rim projecting from a surface of the second connector and adapted to be reversibly received within the second channel to securely attach the second head on the stalk when the applicator is in use by the user. 
     In another feature, the tool is a brush or a sponge. 
     In yet another feature, the applicator further includes a ferrule associated with an end of the tool, the ferrule adapted to clamp the tool and secure the tool within the attachment portion. 
     In still another feature, the ferrule secures the tool within the attachment portion using a friction fit or an adhesive means. 
     In another feature, the stalk further includes a handle to facilitate manipulation of the applicator by the user during use. 
     In an additional feature, the first head, second head and stalk are composed of a silicone material. 
     According to a further embodiment, there is also provided a method of using an applicator by a user for makeup application. The method includes: providing a head including an attachment end having a head wall defining an attachment portion adapted to receive a tool for makeup application; and an engagement end having an engagement wall defining a receiving portion, the engagement wall further defining a channel within the receiving portion. A stalk is further provided having a first end and a second end. The stalk includes a connector projecting from the first end of the stalk, the connector adapted to be reversibly received within the receiving portion of the engagement end; a rim projecting from a surface of the connector and adapted to be reversibly received within the channel to securely attach the head on the stalk when the applicator is in use by the user. The connector is inserted into the receiving portion until the rim mates with the channel when the applicator is in use and the connector is removed from the receiving portion by un-mating the rim from the channel to disassemble the applicator. 
     In a feature, the method includes providing a tool that is a brush or a sponge. 
     In another feature, the method includes clamping an end of the tool using a ferrule to secure the tool within the attachment portion. 
     In yet another feature, the method includes a step of using the ferrule to secure the tool within the attachment portion using a friction fit or by applying an adhesive. 
     In a further feature, the method includes applying a handle or grip to a surface of the stalk to facilitate manipulation of the applicator by the user during use. 
     According to a further embodiment, there is provided an applicator for use by a user for applying makeup. The applicator includes a stalk having a first end and a second end. The stalk includes a first engagement end, at the first end, having a first engagement wall defining a first receiving portion, the first engagement wall further defining a first channel within the first receiving portion. A first head is also included having a first attachment end and a first base, the first attachment end having a first head wall defining a first attachment portion adapted to receive a first tool for makeup application. A first connector proj ects from the first base, the first connector adapted to be reversibly received within the first receiving portion of the first engagement end. A first rim projects from a surface of the first connector and is adapted to be reversibly received within the first channel to securely attach the first head on the stalk when the applicator is in use by the user. 
     In yet another feature, the stalk further includes a second engagement end, at the second end, having a second engagement wall defining a second receiving portion, the second engagement wall further defining a second channel within the second receiving portion. A second head is included having a second attachment end and a second base with a second attachment end having a second head wall defining a second attachment portion adapted to receive a second tool for makeup application. A second connector projects from the second base, the second connector adapted to be reversibly received within the second receiving portion of the second engagement end. A second rim projects from a surface of the second connector and is adapted to be reversibly received within the second channel to securely attach the second head on the stalk when the applicator is in use by the user. 
     Other advantages, features and characteristics of the present invention, as well as methods of operation and functions of the related elements of the apparatus and method, and the combination of steps, parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, the latter of which are briefly described herein below. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the apparatus and method according to the present invention, as to their structure, organization, use, and method of operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which presently preferred embodiments of the invention will now be illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only, and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. In the accompanying drawings: 
         FIGS. 1A to 1D  are perspective, side, top and cross-sectional views, respectively, of a preferred embodiment of the stalk; 
         FIGS. 2A to 2D  are perspective view of the head showing the engagement end, plan view of the head showing the engagement end, perspective view of the head showing the attachment end and a cross-sectional view, respectively, of a preferred embodiment of the head; 
         FIGS. 3A and 3B  are a side view of the applicator with a brush and a sponge in accordance with a preferred embodiment and a perspective view of a stalk with an interchangeable head removed in accordance with a preferred embodiment, respectively; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a stalk and interchangeable heads in accordance with a preferred embodiment; 
         FIGS. 5A to 5F  are front, side, top, bottom, cross-sectional, and perspective views, respectively, of a small ferrule in accordance with a preferred embodiment; 
         FIGS. 6A to 6F  are front, side, top, bottom, cross-sectional, and perspective views, respectively, of a medium ferrule in accordance with a preferred embodiment; 
         FIGS. 7A to 7F  are front, side, top, bottom, cross-sectional, and perspective views, respectively, of a large ferrule in accordance with a preferred embodiment; 
         FIGS. 8A to 8F  are front, side, top, bottom, cross-sectional, and perspective views, respectively, of a small head in accordance with a preferred embodiment; 
         FIGS. 9A to 9F  are front, side, top, bottom, cross-sectional, and perspective views, respectively, of a medium head in accordance with a preferred embodiment; 
         FIGS. 10A to 10F  are front, side, top, bottom, cross-sectional, and perspective views, respectively, of a large head in accordance with a preferred embodiment; 
         FIGS. 11A to 11B  are a front view and cross sectional view, respectively, of a small head in accordance with a preferred embodiment; 
         FIGS. 12A to 12B  are a front view and cross sectional view, respectively, of a medium head in accordance with a preferred embodiment; 
         FIGS. 13A to 13B  are a front view and cross sectional view, respectively, of a large head in accordance with a preferred embodiment; and 
         FIGS. 14A to 14C  are front views of an applicator, in accordance with a preferred embodiment, with (a) a medium head and a large head connected to the stalk; (b) a large head and a small head connected to the stalk; and (c) a medium head and a small head connected to the stalk. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The description that follows, and the embodiments described therein, is provided by way of illustration of an example, or examples, of particular embodiments of the principles of the present invention. These examples are provided for the purposes of explanation, and not of limitation, of those principles and of the invention. In the description, like parts are marked throughout the specification and the drawings with the same respective reference numerals. The figures are not to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular elements while related elements may have been eliminated to prevent obscuring novel aspects. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention. 
     As used herein, a person skilled in the relevant art may generally understand the term “comprising” to generally mean the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, or components as referred to in the claims, but that it does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof. 
     In order that the invention may be more fully understood, it will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which  FIG. 1  through  FIG. 14  illustrate embodiments of the present invention. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1A-D , there is shown an embodiment of the stalk  30  in a perspective view, side view, top view and cross-sectional view, respectively, according to the present invention. As best seen in  FIGS. 1A-C , the stalk  30  includes a handle portion  36  and a connector  32  projecting from each end of the handle portion  36 . In alternate embodiments (not shown), the handle portion  36  only includes a connector  32  projecting from one end of the handle portion  36 . The connector  32  is preferably integral with the handle portion  36 . In some embodiments, however, the connector  32  is a separate component affixed to the handle portion  36 . The connector  32  includes a rim  34  projecting from an outer surface of the connector  32  around a circumference. The handle portion  36  is preferably configured to facilitate use of the applicator by providing a surface for a user to grip and/or manipulate the applicator  10 . The handle portion  36  is preferably concave in shape to increase comfort for the user. In alternate embodiments (not shown), the handle portion  36  may be cylindrical (i.e., have no lengthwise curvature) or be configured to have one or more finger grips (i.e., concave depressions for accommodating a finger). 
       FIG. 1D  depicts the cross-sectional view of the stalk  30  along a longitudinal axis “A” and shows the connector  32 , rim  34 , and handle portion  36  formed as an integral piece. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 2A-D , there is shown an embodiment of an interchangeable head  20  in a perspective view of the head  20  showing the engagement end  22 , a plan view of the head  20  depicting the engagement end  22 , a perspective view of the head  20  showing the attachment end  23 , and a cross-sectional view respectively according to the present invention. As best seen in  FIG. 2A , in a preferred embodiment, the engagement end  22  is formed by an engagement wall  26  that also defines a receiving portion and is adapted to reversibly receive the connector  32 . As best shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2D , an interior surface of the engagement wall  26  further defines a channel  24  configured to receive the rim  34 .  FIG. 2C  depicts the head  20  including a head wall  28  that defines an attachment portion configured to securely attach a brush or sponge, as an example. As shown in  FIG. 2D , a head partition  29  is positioned between the engagement wall  26  and the head wall  28  (i.e., at an interface of the receiving portion and the attachment portion). In preferable embodiments, as shown in  FIGS. 2A, 2C, 2D, 3A, 3B and 4 , the head  20  is configured to have a smaller circumference at the end proximal to the stalk  30  (i.e., the engagement wall end) and a larger circumference at the end distal to the stalk  30  (i.e., the head wall end). In a preferred embodiment, as shown in  FIGS. 2A, 2C, 2D, 3A, 3B and 4 , the head  20  is provided in a conical frustum (or flared) shape. 
     During operation of the applicator  10 , the interchangeable head  20  may preferably be attached to the stalk  30  by positioning the connector  32  within the receiving portion of the base  22  such that the rim  34  is received within the channel  24 , as best shown in  FIG. 3A . To change the head  20  (i.e., disassemble the applicator  10 ), the interchangeable head  20  is pulled away from the connector  32  such that the rim  34  is removed from the channel  24 , as best shown in  FIG. 3B . In this configuration, the applicator  10  may preferably include three components, including, two interchangeable heads  20  and a stalk  30 . The heads  20  and the stalk  30  are assembled into the applicator  10  when a user desires to apply makeup and disassembled into the component pieces when not in use (e.g., for storage) or to change the heads  20  (e.g., changing size or type of brush/sponge head or changing the brush for a sponge or vice versa). 
     As shown in  FIG. 1B , in a preferred embodiment, the length of the stalk  30  is defined by SA; the width of the stalk  30  is defined by SB; the radius of the connector  32  is defined by CA; and the radius of the rim  34 , as measured from the midpoint of the stalk  30  (defined by longitudinal line “A”), is defined by CB. 
     In a preferable embodiment, the value of SA is about 55.4 mm, the value of SB is about 16.6 mm, the value of CA is about 6.2 mm and the value of CB is about 7.0 mm. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2D , the radius of the head partition  29  on the surface adjacent the head wall  28 , from longitudinal axis “B”, is defined by RA; and the radius of the head wall  28  at a position distal from the head partition  29  is defined by RB. In addition, the depth of the head wall  28  (i.e., from the head partition  29  to the end of head wall  28 ) is defined by HA. In preferable embodiments, as best shown in  FIG. 2D , a first predetermined depth of the inner surface of the head wall  28  is configured to be substantially parallel to the engagement wall  26  defining the receiving portion and a second predetermined depth of the inner surface of the head wall  28  is configured to flare outwards at a predetermined angle “ 0 ” (i.e., to a predetermined value of RB). The depth of the straight portion is defined by HB. The depth of the flared portion is defined by Hc. The dimensions of the receiving portion defined by the engagement wall  26  and the channel  24 , preferably complement the dimensions of the connector  32  and rim  34 . 
     In a preferable embodiment, the value of RA is about 7.3 mm, the value of RB is about 10.8 mm, the value of HA is about 9.0 mm, the value of HB is about 5.5 mm, and the value of Hc is about 4.5 mm. 
     In a preferred embodiment, H A  may differ depending on whether the head  20  is configured to attach a brush or a sponge, as well as with the size and/or shape and type of brush or sponge. As best shown in  FIG. 4 , the value of HA may be greater when the head  20  attaches a brush and smaller when the head  20  attaches a sponge. In some embodiments, the value of Hc is greater when the head  20  attaches a brush (i.e., a larger flared portion). In general, regardless of the size and/or circumference of the attachment end  23  (i.e., the value of RB for example), the size and/or circumference of the engagement end  22  is adapted to receive the connector  32  of the stalk  30  such that all of the brushes and sponges intended for use on the face can connect to the same stalk  30 . In alternate embodiments, a stalk  30  adapted for use as a hair brush or an eye brush may be provided. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that stalks intended for use as a hair brush or as an eye brush may have different dimensions as compared to a stalk for applying makeup to the face. 
     In a preferred embodiment, sponges are affixed to the interchangeable head  20  by, for example, an adhesive applied between a surface of the sponge and a surface of the engagement wall  26  and/or head partition  29 . Although persons skilled in the art will appreciate that a number of different types of adhesives may be used, the adhesive should securely attach the sponge to the head  20  and preferably be non-toxic to the skin. 
     Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that ferrules are generally used for fastening, joining, sealing or reinforcing objects. Ferrules may be narrow circular rings composed of metal or plastic. Ferrules may also be referred to as eyelets or grommets. Ferrules may preferably consist of a circular clamp used to hold together and attach fibers, wires, or posts, generally by crimping, swaging, or otherwise deforming the ferrule to permanently tighten it onto the parts that it holds (e.g., a metal band that binds the bristles or hair of a brush). 
     In a preferred embodiment, a ferrule  40  is applied around the end of the brush and/or sponge that is housed within the interchangeable head  20  and adapted to ensure that the hairs of the brush remain in place within the head  20  and do not fall out during use (e.g., application of makeup). In addition, the ferrule  40  is preferably adapted to ensure that the sponge remains in place within the head  20  and does not fall out during use. As shown in  FIGS. 5A-F ,  6 A-F and  7 A-F, the ferrule  40  (or “collar  40 ”) may be provided in different dimensions such as, small  40   a,  medium  40   b  and large  40   c,  respectively, to accommodate brushes of different sizes and for different applications. 
       FIGS. 5A-F  depict an embodiment of a small ferrule  40   a,  such as may be used to accommodate, for example, a narrow brush.  FIG. 5A  is a front view of the small ferrule  40   a  having a modified frustoconical shape with an elliptical shaped first end  42   a  and a circular shaped second end  44   a.  The first end  42   a  is adapted to be proximal to the attachment end  23   a  of the head  20   a  (as shown in  FIG. 11B ). The height of the small ferrule  40   a  is defined by SF H , the width of the first end  42   a  is defined by SF W1 , and the width of the second end  44   a  is defined by SF W2 . In preferable embodiments, the values of SF H , SF W1 , and SF W2  are about 15 mm, about 20.3 mm, and about 17.3 mm respectively.  FIGS. 5B, 5C and 5D  depict the side, top and bottom views of the small ferrule  40   a  respectively.  FIG. 5E  shows a cross-sectional view of the small ferrule  40   a  of  FIG. 5A  along cross-section line  5 E- 5 E showing the inner diameter of the first end  42   a  defined by SF D1 , and the outer diameter of the first end  42   a  defined by SF DO . The thickness of the small ferrule  40   a  is preferably about 0.5 mm. In preferable embodiments, the small ferrule  40   a  is composed of aluminium or plastic. In preferable embodiments, the values of SF DI  and SF DO  are about 7.4 mm and about 8.4 mm respectively.  FIG. 5F  depicts a perspective view of the small ferrule of  FIG. 5A . 
       FIGS. 6A-F  depict an embodiment of a medium ferrule  40   b,  such as may be used to accommodate, for example, a fan shaped brush.  FIG. 6A  is a front view of the medium ferrule  40   b  having a modified frustoconical shape with an elliptical shaped first end  42   b  and a circular shaped second end  44   b  wherein the first end  42   b  is curved to accommodate the fan shaped brush hairs. The first end  42   b  is adapted to be proximal to the attachment end  23   b  of the head  20   b  (as shown in  FIG. 12B ). The height of the medium ferrule  40   b  is defined by MF H , the width of the first end  42   b  is defined by MF W1 , and the width of the second end  44   b  is defined by MF W2 . In preferable embodiments, the values of MF H , MF W1 , and MF W2  are about 17.6 mm, about 23 mm, and about 17.3 mm respectively.  FIGS. 6B, 6C and 6D  depict the side, top and bottom views of the medium ferrule  40   b  respectively.  FIG. 6E  shows a cross-sectional view of the medium ferrule  40   b  of  FIG. 6A  along cross-section line  6 D- 6 D showing the inner diameter of the first end  42   b  defined by MF DI , and the outer diameter of the first end  42   b  defined by MF DO . The thickness of the medium ferrule  40   b  is preferably about 0.5 mm. In preferable embodiments, the medium ferrule  40   b  is composed of aluminium or plastic. In preferable embodiments, the values of MF DI  and MF DO  are about 15.3 mm and about 16.3 mm respectively.  FIG. 6F  depicts a perspective view of the medium ferrule of  FIG. 6A . 
       FIGS. 7A-F  depict an embodiment of a large ferrule  40   c,  such as may be used to accommodate, for example, a bulb shaped brush.  FIG. 7A  is a front view of the large ferrule  40   c  having a frustoconical shape with a first end  42   c  and a second end  44   c.  The first end  42   c  is adapted to be proximal to the attachment end  23   c  of the head  20   c  (as shown in  FIG. 13B ). The height of the large ferrule  40   c  is defined by LFH, the width of the first end  42   c  is defined by LF W1 , and the width of the second end  44   c  is defined by LF W2 . In preferable embodiments, the values of LF H , LF W1 , and LF W2  are about 18 mm, about 23.4 mm, and about 17 mm respectively.  FIGS. 7B, 7C and 7D  depict the side, top and bottom views of the large ferrule  40   c  respectively.  FIG. 7E  shows a cross-sectional view of the large ferrule  40   c  of  FIG. 7A  along cross-section line  7 C- 7 C wherein the thickness of the large ferrule  40   c  is about 0.5 mm. In preferable embodiments, the large ferrule  40   c  is composed of aluminium or plastic.  FIG. 7F  depicts a perspective view of the large ferrule of  FIG. 7A . 
     The ferrule is preferably positioned within the head wall  28  defining the attachment portion and may be affixed to a surface of the head wall  28  using, for example, an adhesive or via a friction fit. Preferably, the ferrule is not externally visible as it is housed within the head  20 , which differs from prior art makeup brushes where the metal ferrule is typically exposed. This configuration preferably increases the comfort for the user. 
       FIGS. 8A-F  depict an embodiment of a small head  20   a  adapted to contain the small ferrule  40   a  (as shown in  FIG. 11B ).  FIG. 8A  is a front view of the small head  20   a  having a modified frustoconical shape with an elliptical shaped attachment end  23   a  and a circular shaped engagement end  22   a.  The attachment end  23   a  is adapted to be proximal to the first end  42   a  of the small ferrule  40   a  (as shown in  FIG. 11B ) and the second end of the small ferrule  44   a  is adapted to be proximal to the head partition  29  (as shown in  FIG. 11B ). The engagement end  22  and receiving portion defined by the engagement wall  26  for the small head  20   a  is as shown in  FIGS. 2A-D . The height of the small head  20   a  is defined by SH T , the width of the attachment end  23   a  is defined by SW T , and the diameter of the engagement end  22  is defined by SD T . In preferable embodiments, the values of SH T , SW T , and SD T  are about 25.5 mm, about 23.3 mm, and about 18.1 mm respectively.  FIGS. 8B, 8C and 8D  depict the side, top and bottom views of the small head  20   a  respectively.  FIG. 8E  shows a cross-sectional view of the small head  20   a  of  FIG. 8A  along cross-section line  8 E- 8 E showing the inner depth of the attachment end  23   a  defined by SD I  (the outer depth of the attachment end  23   a  defined by SA O  as shown in  FIG. 8C ), the inner and outer diameters of the head partition  29  surface proximal to the small ferrule  40   a defined by SD I  and SD O  respectively, the height of the receiving portion of the small head  20   a  defined by SH A , and the height of the receiving portion of the small head  20   a  including the head partition  29  defined by SH B . In preferable embodiments, the values of SA I , SA O , SD I , SD O , SH A , and SH B  are about 7.9 mm, about 11.2 mm, about 17.1 mm, about 20.3 mm, about 7.6 mm and about 9.5 mm respectively.  FIG. 8F  depicts a perspective view of the small head of  FIG. 8A . 
       FIGS. 9A-F  depict an embodiment of a medium head  20   b  adapted to contain the medium ferrule  40   b  (as shown in  FIG. 12B ).  FIG. 9A  is a front view of the medium head  20   b  having a modified frustoconical shape with an elliptical shaped attachment end  23   b  and a circular shaped engagement end  22   b  wherein the attachment end  23   b  is curved to accommodate the fan shaped brush hairs. The attachment end  23   b  is adapted to be proximal to the first end  42   b  of the medium ferrule  40   b  (as shown in  FIG. 12B ) and the second end of the medium ferrule  44   b  is adapted to be proximal to the head partition  29  (as shown in  FIG. 12B ). The engagement end  22  and receiving portion defined by the engagement wall  26  for the medium head  20   b  is as shown in  FIGS. 2A-D . The height of the medium head  20   b  is defined by MH T , the width of the attachment end  23   b  is defined by MW T , and the diameter of the engagement end  22  is defined by MD T . In preferable embodiments, the values of MH T , MW T , and MDT are about 28.5 mm, about 25.3 mm, and about 18.1 mm respectively.  FIGS. 9B, 9C and 9D  depict the side, top and bottom views of the medium head  20   b  respectively.  FIG. 9E  shows a cross-sectional view of the medium head  20   b  of  FIG. 9A  along cross-section line  9 D- 9 D showing the outer depth of the attachment end  23   b  defined by MD O , the inner diameter of the head partition  29  surface proximal to the medium ferrule  40   b  defined by MD I , the height of the receiving portion of the medium head  20   b  defined by MH A , and the height of the receiving portion of the medium head  20   b  including the head partition  29  defined by MH B . In preferable embodiments, the values of MD O , MD I , MH A , and MH B  are about 19.1 mm, about 17.3 mm, about 7.6 mm and about 9.5 mm respectively.  FIG. 9F  depicts a perspective view of the medium head of  FIG. 9A . 
       FIGS. 10A-F  depict an embodiment of a large head  20   c  adapted to contain the large ferrule  40   c  (as shown in  FIG. 13B ).  FIG. 10A  is a front view of the large head  20   c  having a frustoconical shape with a circular shaped attachment end  23   c  and a circular shaped engagement end  22   c.  The attachment end  23   c  is adapted to be proximal to the first end  42   c  of the large ferrule  40   c  (as shown in  FIG. 13B ) and the second end of the large ferrule  44   c  is adapted to be proximal to the head partition  29  (as shown in  FIG. 13B ). The engagement end  22  and receiving portion defined by the engagement wall  26  for the large head  20   c  is as shown in  FIGS. 2A-D . The height of the large head  20   c  is defined by LHT, the width of the attachment end  23   c  is defined by LW O , and the diameter of the engagement end  22  is defined by LDT. In preferable embodiments, the values of LH T , LW O , and LD T  are about 28.5 mm, about 26.5 mm, and about 18.1 mm respectively.  FIGS. 10B, 10C and 10D  depict the side, top and bottom views of the large head  20   c  respectively.  FIG. 10E  shows a cross-sectional view of the large head  20   c  of  FIG. 10A  along cross-section line  10 A- 10 A showing the inner diameter of the attachment end  23   c  defined by LW I , the inner diameter of the head partition  29  surface proximal to the large ferrule  40   c  defined by LD 1 , the height of the receiving portion of the large head  20   c  defined by LH A , and the height of the receiving portion of the large head  20   c  including the head partition  29  defined by LH B . In preferable embodiments, the values of LW I , LD I , LH A , and LH B  are about 23.8 mm, about 17 mm, about 7.6 mm and about 9.5 mm respectively.  FIG. 10F  depicts a perspective view of the large head of  FIG. 10A . 
       FIG. 11A  depicts the small head  20   a  attached to a narrow brush.  FIG. 11B  is a cross-section view of the small head  20   a  of  FIG. 11A  along cross-section line I-I depicting the small ferrule  40   a  within the attachment portion of the small head  20   a  defined by the head wall  28 . 
       FIG. 12A  depicts the medium head  20   b  attached to a fan-shaped brush.  FIG. 12B  is a cross-section view of the medium head  20   b  of  FIG. 12B  along cross-section line H-H depicting the medium ferrule  40   b  within the attachment portion of the medium head  20   b  defined by the head wall  28 . 
       FIG. 13A  depicts the large head  20   c  attached to a bulb-shaped brush.  FIG. 13B  is a cross-section view of the large head  20   c  of  FIG. 13A  along cross-section line G-G depicting the large ferrule  40   c  within the attachment portion of the large head  20   c  defined by the head wall  28 . 
       FIGS. 14A , B and C depict embodiments of the applicator  10  of the present invention and, in particular, demonstrate the ability to interchange various combinations of heads  20  using the same stalk  30 .  FIG. 14A  shows an applicator  10  with a medium head  20   b  and a large head  20   c  connected to the stalk  30 .  FIG. 14B  shows an applicator  10  with a large head  20   c  and a small head  20   a  connected to the stalk  30 .  FIG. 14C  shows an applicator  10  with a medium head  20   b  and a small head  20   a  connected to the stalk  30 . 
     In preferable embodiments the stalk  30  and interchangeable heads  20  are composed of a resilient material (e.g., silicone). 
     An applicator  10  is provided according to the present invention, for the application of makeup. The applicator  10  is preferably dual ended including at least one interchangeable head  20 , attaching a brush and/or sponge, to facilitate customization by a user (i.e., changing the one or more heads based on individual needs). 
     In one embodiment, the connector  32  extends from the stalk  30 , and is adapted to be received within the engagement portion defined by the engagement wall  26  of the head  20 . In an alternate embodiment, the connector extends from a surface of the head distal to the attachment end and is adapted to be received by the stalk which is configured with an engagement wall at one end defining an engagement portion for receiving the connector (not shown). In the alternate embodiment, the stalk includes an engagement end, at a first end, having an engagement wall that defines a receiving portion, the engagement wall further defining a channel within the receiving portion. The head includes an attachment end and a base, the attachment end having a head wall defining an attachment portion adapted to receive a tool for makeup application. A connector projects from the base, the connector adapted to be reversibly received within the receiving portion of the engagement end. A rim projects from a surface of the connector and is adapted to be reversibly received within the channel to securely attach the head on the stalk when the applicator is in use by the user. In an additional feature, the stalk of this alternate embodiment is adapted to connect to two heads at either end of the stalk. 
     Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that the applicator of the present invention (including the interchangeable head  20  and/or stalk  30 ) is not restricted by its current size and/or proportions and can be made in various widths and/or lengths. 
     While the applicator of the present invention is composed of silicone rubber, persons skilled in the art will appreciate that it may be composed of another material or combination of two or more materials including, but not limited to, neoprene rubber, natural gum rubber, natural latex rubber, and other resilient or non-resilient materials such as plastics, acrylic, and/or vinyl. In preferred embodiments, the applicator of the present invention is composed of a single material (e.g., silicone) which facilitates ease of manufacture and assembly in comparison to prior art attempts. 
     The interchangeability of the heads may preferably facilitate the user-friendly nature of the applicator. The applicator preferably involves snapping on or off the brush head base and/or the sponge head base to or from the stalk. The applicator may preferably be adapted for seamlessly changing brushes and/or sponges throughout the makeup routine of the user. 
     Persons skilled in the art may appreciate that silicone is a very durable and resilient material, which preferably provides a longer life-cycle and increased reliability of the connector-head base (i.e., locking) system. Preferably, the locking system facilitates simple and/or fast assembly and disassembly of the applicator. The use of a single material (e.g., silicone) preferably reduces manufacturing costs when compared to prior art applicators, which may involve sourcing a variety of materials and/or the use of multiple factories for manufacturing. 
     Preferably, users of the applicator may no longer be required to purchase multiple applicators. In accordance with a preferable embodiment of the present invention, users may use a single handle portion with one or more attachments to create storage space (e.g., creating room for makeup and/or skincare products in the makeup case). 
     In preferable embodiments, the present invention facilitates reduced spending costs as users are no longer required to spend as much money on buying a separate brush and/or sponge for each type and form of makeup. Users of the applicator of the present invention may now preferably use a single stalk and one or more brush heads, which may be more cost effective compared with buying many different makeup brushes and sponges. 
     The applicator of the present invention preferably facilitates a reduction in the amount of makeup tools required by a user providing a number of benefits (e.g., freeing up space in the user&#39;s makeup case). In preferable embodiments, the applicator of the present invention includes a variety of different brush heads and/or sponge heads (adapted for connecting to the stalk) such that the users are not required to invest in as many expensive makeup brushes and tools as in the prior art. In contrast, the present invention provides users with a silicone handle portion (and/or stalk) and a plurality of attachments to facilitate customization of the user&#39;s makeup tools. In addition, the present invention facilitates portability of the applicator, brush heads and/or sponge heads. For example, instead of having to travel with a bronzer brush and a blush brush, users of the applicator of the present invention provide for the travel with a single makeup tool. 
     When compared to the prior art, the applicator of the present invention includes at least one rim  34  projecting from the connector  32  to facilitate secure attachment of the sponge and/or brush head  20 . As shown in  FIG. 1B , the engagement wall  26 , defining an engagement portion, of the sponge and/or brush head base  20  preferably defines a channel  24  (or “groove  24 ”) for receiving the rim  34 . Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that the shape of the connector  32  may be circular (e.g., cylindrical), angular (e.g., triangle, quadrilateral, polygon) or a combination of both. In addition, while preferable embodiments of the present invention include a connector  32  with a rim  34 , alternate embodiments may not include a rim (or ring). Further, the at least one rim  34  may be continuous or intermittent. Alternate embodiments of the present invention may include two or more connectors projecting from the end of the stalk to secure the head (e.g., prong-like). Persons skilled in the art will also appreciate that various mechanisms may be used to reversibly attach the sponge and/or brush head to the connector including, but not limited to, for example, a lock-and-key fit, transition fit, and/or interference fit. An example of a lock-and-key fit may be an enlarged nodule projecting from an end of the connector that may be received within the base (e.g., the base defining a well) of the sponge and/or brush head (not shown). 
     The locking system of the present invention may not be limited to makeup application, and may be adapted for hair brushes as an example. Users may preferably benefit from having one handle portion and interchangeable brush heads for use with hair (e.g., users may switch between a round brush to a paddle brush to a comb, etc.) instead of multiple brushes, which may be costly. Users may also not be required to discard brushes after much use, as they may be able to replace the brush head instead of the entire system. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the attachment end  23  is shaped based on the brush type. For example, the end  23  is generally configured with edges that are straight (i.e., not rounded); however, for certain brush types (e.g., fan brush) the edges are rounded. 
     Other modifications and alterations may be used in the design and manufacture of other embodiments according to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, which is limited only by the claims of any regular patent applications claiming priority herefrom. 
     This concludes the description of presently preferred embodiments of the invention. The foregoing description has been presented for the purpose of illustration and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Other modifications, variations and alterations are possible in light of the above teaching and will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and may be used in the design and manufacture of other embodiments according to the present invention without departing form the spirit and scope of the invention. It is intended the scope of the invention be limited not by this description but only by the claims forming a part hereof.