Patent Publication Number: US-8985883-B2

Title: Control surfaces for applicator with moveable applicator head

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/952,792 filed Jul. 30, 2007. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present disclosure is directed to a cosmetic applicator with a moveable applicator head, and in particular to control surfaces associated with the applicator. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Various types of cosmetic applicators are known in the art. Mascara applicators have been proposed in which an applicator head is supported by a stem for motion relative to a handle. The force for moving the applicator head may be electrically driven, such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,056,111 to Mantelet. These applicators assist the user by automating, at least to some degree, the process of application of the mascara to the eyelash, and thereby address some of the difficulties and inefficiencies experienced with applicators where the applicator head is fixed to the handle. 
     One drawback of electrically driven mascara applicators is that users may turn them on accidentally or unknowingly, resulting in unintended power drainage. This can happen, for example, if a mascara applicator is in a user&#39;s purse and is jostled. There is a desire to develop an electrically driven mascara applicator which may be locked when not in use so as to prevent unintended operation. 
     Another drawback of electrically driven mascara brushes is that the user may not know what motion or function will occur when they turn the brush on. There exists a need to inform the user of the motion capabilities of the mascara applicator and let the user select the motion or function she prefers. This problem is addressed by providing a control surface on the handle whereupon the user may choose the motion, speed, direction, function, etc. she prefers. There is a desire to locate the control surface where it is comfortable and intuitive for users to operate, even during application. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention is directed to a cosmetic applicator. A first exemplary embodiment comprises a handle having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the handle comprises a drive; an applicator head operatively associated with the drive to move at least part of the applicator head relative to the handle; and a control surface disposed at the proximal end of the handle and operatively associated with the drive. The control surface is rotatable about a control surface axis through a plurality of positions and the control surface axis is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the handle. 
     A second exemplary embodiment comprises a handle having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the handle comprises a drive; an applicator head operatively associated with the drive to move at least part of the applicator head relative to the handle; and a control surface disposed at the proximal end of the handle and operatively associated with the drive, the control surface moveable through a plurality of positions. The plurality of positions comprises at least a first position corresponding to a first drive state, a second position corresponding to a second drive state, and a third position corresponding to a third drive state. Movement of the control surface among the plurality of positions causes the drive to operate according to the first drive state, the second drive state, and the third drive state. Two or more drive states correspond to no motion of the applicator head and one or more drive states correspond to motion of at least part of the applicator head. 
     A third exemplary embodiment comprises a handle having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the handle comprises a drive; an applicator head operatively associated with the drive to move at least part of the applicator head relative to the handle; a first control surface disposed at the proximal end of the handle and operatively associated with the drive, the first control surface moveable through a plurality of positions; and a second control surface disposed at the proximal end of the handle and operatively associated with the drive. The second control surface may be operated independently or in combination with the first control surface. 
     A fourth exemplary embodiment comprises a handle having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the handle comprises a drive; an applicator head operatively associated with the drive to move at least part of the applicator head relative to the handle; a first control surface disposed at the proximal end of the handle and operatively associated with the drive, the first control surface moveable through a plurality of positions; and a temporary control surface. The temporary control surface is operatively associated with the drive and prohibits operation of the first control surface. Operation of the temporary control surface causes the drive to operate according to a state corresponding to motion of the applicator head. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       While the specification concludes with claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter regarded as the present invention, it is believed that the invention will be more fully understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Some figures may have been simplified by the omission of selected elements for the purpose of more clearly showing other elements. Such omissions of elements are not necessarily indicative of the presence or absence of particular elements in any of the exemplary embodiments, except as may be explicitly delineated in the corresponding written description. None of the drawings are necessarily to scale. 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic of an automated applicator according to the present disclosure with a proximal control surface; 
         FIG. 2  is a plan view of an automated applicator according to the present disclosure with a proximal control surface in the form of a single push button; 
         FIG. 3  is a plan view of an automated applicator according to the present disclosure with a proximal control surface in the form of a button extending the length of the handle; 
         FIG. 4  is a plan view of an automated applicator according to the present disclosure with a proximal control surface in the form of a plurality of push buttons; 
         FIG. 5  is a plan view of an automated applicator according to the present disclosure with a proximal control surface in the form of a slide oriented in the transverse direction; 
         FIG. 6  is a plan view of an automated applicator according to the present disclosure with a proximal control surface in the form of a single button capable of tilting; 
         FIG. 7  is a plan view of an automated applicator according to the present disclosure with a proximal control surface in the form of a slide oriented in the longitudinal direction; 
         FIG. 8  is a plan view of an automated applicator according to the present disclosure with a proximal control surface in the form of a toggle that passes through the proximal end of the handle; 
         FIG. 9  is a plan view of an automated applicator according to the present disclosure with a proximal control surface mounted for rotation about an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the handle; 
         FIGS. 10-13  are end views of different embodiments of the control surface of  FIG. 9 ; 
         FIG. 14  is a plan view of an automated applicator according to the present disclosure with a proximal control surface similar to that of  FIG. 9 , but disposed about the stem; 
         FIG. 15  is a plan view of an automated applicator according to the present disclosure with a proximal control surface similar to that of  FIG. 9 , but also having a graspable surface; 
         FIG. 16  is a plan view of an automated applicator according to the present disclosure with a proximal control surface similar to that of  FIG. 9 , but additionally having a graspable tab; 
         FIGS. 17 and 18  are end views of different embodiments of the control surface of  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 19  is a plan view of an automated applicator according to the present disclosure with a proximal control surface similar to that of  FIG. 16 , but having a plurality of graspable tabs; 
         FIG. 20  is a plan view of an automated applicator according to the present disclosure with a proximal control surface similar to that of  FIG. 9 , but positioned separate from the handle; 
         FIG. 21  is a plan view of an automated applicator according to the present disclosure with a proximal control surface mounted for rotation about an axis orthogonal to the handle longitudinal axis; 
         FIG. 22  is a plan view of an alternative automated applicator with a proximal control surface in the form of a surface mounted for rotation about an orthogonal axis; 
         FIG. 23  is a plan view of another alternative automated applicator with a proximal control surface in the form of a surface mounted for rotation about an orthogonal axis; 
         FIG. 24  is a schematic of an automated applicator according to the present disclosure with a proximal control surface; 
         FIG. 25  is a partial plan view of an alternative indicator layout for an automated applicator, showing a plurality of positions on the control surface and an indicator on the handle; 
         FIGS. 26A and 26B  are partial plan views of alternative indicator layouts for an automated applicator, showing a plurality of positions on the handle and an indicator on the control surface; 
         FIGS. 27A ,  27 B, and  28  are partial plan views of alternative indicator layouts for an automated applicator; 
         FIG. 29  is a plan view of an automated applicator having an additional control surface that may be used to vary the operation of the proximal control surface or the operation of the drive in response to manipulation of the proximal control surface; 
         FIG. 30  is a schematic view of an automated applicator having an additional control surface that is separable from the automated applicator; 
         FIG. 31  is a schematic view of an automated applicator having an additional control surface that is separable from the automated applicator and disposed outside the secondary packaging; 
         FIG. 32  is a schematic view of an automated applicator having an additional control surface that is separable from the automated applicator, disposed outside the secondary packaging, and may be operatively associated with an external power supply; and 
         FIG. 33  is a partially-exploded schematic of a system including an applicator according to  FIG. 1 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     The present disclosure details a variety of cosmetic applicators having proximal control surfaces and systems incorporating such applicators.  FIG. 1  introduces a general embodiment of the applicator, while  FIGS. 2-23  illustrate various alternative embodiments of the proximal control surface.  FIGS. 24-26  illustrate different embodiments of the proximal control surface.  FIGS. 27A ,  27 B, and  28  illustrate embodiments having different indicator elements.  FIGS. 29-32  illustrate various embodiments of automated applicator having at least one control surface in addition to the proximal control surface. FIG.  33  illustrates an applicator similar to that illustrated in  FIG. 1  in combination with a source of cosmetic. Throughout, a numbering convention has been adopted such that similar features of the various embodiments have been numbered in a similar manner. One of ordinary skill in the art would realize that various elements of the embodiments discussed and shown may be combined or modified. 
     Definitions 
     The term “cosmetic applicator” or “applicator” refers to an apparatus, device or system used to apply cosmetic material, such as mascara, to a keratinous material, such as eyelashes. 
     The term “applicator element” refers to a structure from which a cosmetic material, such as mascara, is transferred to a keratinous material, such as eyelashes. 
     The term “applicator head” refers to one or more applicator elements and a structure that supports the applicator element(s). According to certain embodiments, the applicator head may comprise protrusions and a core from which the protrusions extend or depend. 
     The term “attached” refers to elements being connected or united by adhering, fastening, bonding, etc. by any method suitable for the elements being joined together. Many suitable methods for attaching elements together are well-known, including adhesive bonding, mechanical fastening, etc. Such attachment methods may be used to attach elements together either continuously or intermittently. 
     The term “operatively associated” refers to configurations whereby an element is directly secured to another element by attaching the element directly to the other element, and to configurations whereby an element is indirectly secured to another element by attaching the element to intermediate member(s) that is(are) in turn attached to the other element. 
     The term “disposed” is used to mean that an element(s) exists in a particular place or position as a unitary structure with other elements or as a separate element operatively associated with other elements. 
     The term “drive” refers to an apparatus, device or system that moves a driven element, such as an applicator head or applicator element, which is operatively associated with the drive. The drive may comprise a motor, a transmission, and a source of power for the motor. The structure and operation of the motor may vary according to the desired motion to be achieved between the applicator head and handle. 
     The term “state” refers to either a drive state or another state, such as paused, stopped, or locked which may be employed by the applicator to achieve cosmetic benefits like lifting, separating, and depositing of the lashes. States may correspond to different speeds, directions, movements, intensities, frequencies, etc. The applicator head may, in whole or in part, rotate about the longitudinal axis of the stem. Or, the head may, in whole or in part, translate along the longitudinal axis of the stem. The head may, in whole or in part, vibrate. The drive may move the head according to any combination of rotational, translational, and vibrational motion relative to the longitudinal axis of the stem, and this motion may occur at a fixed speed, frequency, amplitude or time duration, or the speed, frequency, amplitude or time duration may vary. See, for example, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/143,176. In addition, states may correspond to other effects, such as heat, cold, light, sound, product dosing, torque control, magnetic fields, mixing, or dosing of a product onto an applicator. 
     The term “paused” refers to a state wherein the motor and battery power contacts are discontinuous. There is no motion of the applicator head in the paused state. 
     The term “stopped” or “locked” refers to a state wherein the position is at a greater angle of rotation from the nearest other switch position. A stopped or locked state requires greater force to get into and out of the state than is required to get into and out of a paused state or drive state. Discontinuity of the motor and battery power contacts in a lock position are farther apart than in a paused state. The motor contacts are further isolated from the battery contacts than in any other position, in particular, isolation that occurs when in a pause position. In a locked state, the applicator head may be prohibited from moving while it is within the bottle. 
     The term “motor” refers to one of, a combination of, or variation of the following. The motor may be a mechanical motor with a source of potential mechanical energy in the form of a resilient member—a spring or rubber band, for example. Alternatively, the motor may be an electric motor, in which case the drive may also comprise a power source in the form of a battery, for example, operatively associated with the motor to provide the necessary voltage and current. Where the motor is an electric motor, the voltage and current may even be provided by a power source external to the handle, such as an embodiment wherein the motor is operatively associated with an electric mains via an electrical outlet or to a separate battery, for example. In other embodiments, the motor may be in the form of a pretensable spring or element, it may be in the form of an electromagnet, it may be a vibratory motor powered by a piezocrystal, or any number of forms or variations therein. 
     The term “protrusion” refers to a member that extends or depends generally away from or into a base surface, such as of an applicator head. As such, a protrusion provides a localized area that is not continuous with the surrounding base surface. 
     Cosmetic Applicator 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 1 , an automated cosmetic applicator  100  according to the present disclosure may also comprise a handle  102  and a stem  104  having a first end  106  operatively associated with handle  102  and a second end  108 . Applicator  100  may comprise an applicator head  110  that comprises one or more applicator elements  112 , such as protrusions. Head  110  may be attached to second end  108  of stem  104 , such that the first end  114  of applicator head  110  is operatively associated with handle  102  and the second end  116  of head  110  is free. The illustration of handle  102  is merely exemplary, and is not intended to be limiting. In fact, details of handle  102  have been omitted to more clearly show other elements of applicator  100 . 
     As also illustrated in  FIG. 1 , applicator  100  comprises a drive  120 . Drive  120  may comprise a motor  122 , a power source  124 , and a transmission  126 . Power source  124  may comprise an inhibitor, for example a pull tab, that limits operation of drive  120  except when the pull tab is removed (to permit completion of the electrical circuit, for example). Transmission  126  operatively associates motor  122  with stem  104 , and in doing so, operatively associates drive  120  with head  110  and, thus, applicator elements  112 . In all or only in certain operative states, drive  120  may move applicator head  110 , in whole or in part, relative to handle  102 . In certain states, drive  120  may be disengaged and/or inoperatively associated with head  110  such that head  110  has no or limited relative motion relative to handle  102 , while in other states, drive  120  may be engaged and/or operatively associated with head  110  to move head  110  relative to handle  102 . Alternatively, drive  120  and/or head  110  may be secured against motion in certain operative states. In such alternative embodiments, the drive  120  or head  110  may be engaged, in whole or in part, by an element, such as a switch, that operatively associates drive  120  or head  110  fixedly with handle  102 , such that no or only limited motion may occur between head  110  and handle  102 . 
     According to certain embodiments, a drive circuit  140  may be operatively associated with motor  122  and power source  124  to control operation of motor  122 . Drive circuit  140  may comprise a single control surface or multiple control surfaces that are in series or parallel. In one embodiment, drive circuit  140  comprises a control surface  128  to turn motor  122  on and off, or operatively or inoperatively associate motor  122  with power source  124 . As for transmission  126 , its structure and operation may also vary according to the desired motion to be achieved. In fact, transmission  126  may transform, in whole or in part, the motion of motor  122  prior to operatively associating with applicator head  110 . For example, rotational motion of motor  122  (or more particularly, its motor shaft  130 ) may be transformed, at least in part, to translational motion. In addition or in the alternative, transmission  126  may reduce the speed of motor  122  to a rotational speed appropriate for head  110 . In certain embodiments, transmission  126  may be omitted if shaft  130  does not rotate faster than the desired rotational speed of head  110 . In other embodiments, transmission  126  may not be required if motor  122  is capable of providing variable motions or speeds. Drive  120  may comprise elements other than or in addition to motor  122 , power source  124 , and transmission  126 . For example, a torque converter (see U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/677,326). 
     Control Surfaces 
     As noted relative to  FIG. 1 , control surface  128  according to the present disclosure is located at the proximal end of handle  102 , which is the end closest to stem  104 . It will be recognized that this may have certain advantages over control surfaces placed closer to the midpoint or distal end of handle  102 . When held, it is more likely that the user&#39;s thumb and/or forefinger will be in the region of the proximal end of handle  102  than the midpoint or distal end of handle  102 . By placing control surface  128  in the proximal region, the manipulation of control surface  128  by the thumb and/or forefinger may be facilitated; also, the user may easily balance handle  102  in her hand using a familiar gripping means (i.e. not compensating for an unnatural position of the control surface which makes users employ other fingers) that allows the user to control the applicator motion intuitively and unconsciously. It is important that the user maintain their familiar way to hold the applicator, and be able to control the applicator without conscious decisions that require looking at the control surface, using two hands, holding the applicator in an unnatural way, or using appendages other than the forefinger and/or thumb. 
       FIGS. 2-23  illustrate a number of different applicator embodiments showing control surface placement options and design. According to this disclosure, the control surface may be positioned at one end or the other of the handle, such that the control surface may be at either the proximal end (near the stem) or distal end of the handle. Preferred control surfaces are located at the proximal end of the handle; these may be referred to as “proximal control surfaces” as well as simply “control surfaces.” However, in referring to the control surfaces as being located “at” the proximal end of the handle, it will be recognized that, as illustrated, this does not limit the positioning of the control surfaces such that they must be located at the very end of the handle; rather, the control surfaces may be near the proximal end of the handle. Importantly, additional control surfaces need not be located in any specific area; for instance, a primary control surface may be located at the proximal end of the handle, while an additional control surface may be located at the proximal end or the midpoint of the handle. Or, an additional control surface may be positioned at the distal end of the handle. In some embodiments, the control surface axis is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the handle. In other embodiments, the control surface axis is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the handle. In still further embodiments, the control surface axis is at an angle other than 0, 90, 180, or 270 degrees from the longitudinal axis of the handle. 
       FIG. 2  shows an applicator  200  comprising a control surface  228  in the form of a single button  250 . Button  250  may be in the form of a push button which may be depressed radially inward towards the longitudinal axis  244  of the handle  202 ; button  250  may actuate a toggle switch. Applicator head  210  may revolve in one direction or the other depending on the state of the toggle switch. In another embodiment, button  250  may be capable of being depressed through a plurality of positions, each position associated with a different state for the applicator head. 
     It will be recognized that a number of other input devices may be used in place of a button. Operation of the control surface may involve manipulation of one or more buttons, collars, switches, conductive or inductive-responsive surfaces, pressure or temperature-responsive surfaces, etc. These input devices may provide a number of discrete input states, or a continuous plurality of input states. Moreover, the input devices may maintain an input state until the user manipulates the input device to another input state, or the input device may maintain the input state for a limited time period, which time period may be set by the user or predetermined by the input device. For example, the input devices may rely upon changes in pressure or temperature. Alternatively, the input devices may be in the form of electrical contacts which the user selectively connects, for example, by placing a finger across the contacts, to provide an input device. Or, operation may require the presence of an RFID chip or the like. 
     Moreover, it will be recognized that the input device does not need to have a shape coextensive with the control surface. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the applicator  300  comprises a control surface  328  in the form of a button  350  that extends the length of the handle  302 . However, control surface  328  may be defined only by that portion of button  350  at the proximal end of handle  302 , where the applicator head  310  is operatively associated with the drive. It is not necessary that button  350  be manipulable elsewhere along button  350 , although according to certain embodiments that is a possibility. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates an embodiment of a control surface  428  including a plurality of buttons  450 ,  452 . Buttons  450 ,  452  are shaped to provide an indication of their intended function. That is, depression of button  450  causes motion of the applicator head  410  in one direction, while depression of button  452  causes motion of head  410  in the other direction. In one embodiment, both buttons  450 ,  452  are biased to a stopped position, such that when neither button  450 ,  452  is depressed, head  410  is not moving. Or, buttons  450 ,  452  may be linked, such that when one button  450  is depressed, the other button  452  is not. 
     As a further alternative,  FIGS. 5-8  illustrate a series of applicators comprising control surfaces that respond to motion of the thumb or forefinger along a line of action that is not directed radially inward to the longitudinal axis of the applicator. For instance,  FIG. 5  illustrates a control surface  528  comprising a slide  550  that is disposed transversely to the longitudinal axis  544  of the handle  502 . Slide  550  comprises a tab  552  that moves in the transverse direction from a central position  554  to either of two extreme positions  556 ,  558 . In one embodiment, movement of tab  552  from central position  554  in one direction or the other causes applicator head  510  to move in that direction, with the speed of head  510  being directly related to the distance moved by tab  552  relative to positions  556 ,  558 . In other embodiments, tab  552  may be biased toward central position  554 . Or, tab  552  may be biased towards extreme position  556  and there may be one or more positions to which tab  552  may move. 
     The embodiment of  FIG. 6  is similar to the embodiment of  FIG. 5  in that movement of a thumb across the control surface  628  can cause the applicator head  610  to move in one manner or another. The embodiment of  FIG. 7  is also similar to the embodiment of  FIG. 5  in that the control surface  728  is defined by a slide  750 , although slide  750  is aligned along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis  744  of the handle  702 , rather than transverse to handle  702 . The embodiment of  FIG. 8  is similar to  FIGS. 5 and 6  in that movement of the control surface  828  transverse to the longitudinal axis  844  of the handle  802  may cause the applicator head  810  to move in one direction or the other, for example. However, according to the embodiment of  FIG. 8 , control surface  828  moves relative to handle  802 , such that when control surface  828  is depressed in the right side of handle  802 , head  810  rotates to the right, and when the control surface is depressed to the left side of handle  802 , head  810  rotates to the left. 
     The embodiments of  FIGS. 9-23  illustrate a set of related control surfaces. That is, all of the control surfaces in the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS. 9-23  are moveable about an axis. In the embodiments in  FIGS. 9-19 , the axis about which the control surface moves is aligned with or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the handle. According to the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS. 21-23 , the control surface moves about an axis that is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. Despite the fact that the majority of illustrated embodiments have an axis that is aligned with or parallel to the longitudinal axis, this is not intended to indicate a preference for one type of embodiment over or to the exclusion of another. Moreover, the disclosure also would embrace embodiments wherein the axis is neither aligned with/parallel to nor orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. 
     Starting with  FIG. 9 , the control surface  928  has an axis  946  about which it moves (rotates) that is aligned with the longitudinal axis  944  of the applicator  900 . According to certain embodiments, control surface  928  may comprise a collar that extends about the entire periphery of the handle  902 . Alternatively, control surface  928  may be disposed on or about a sector of the periphery of handle  902 . Control surface  928  may be biased toward a first position, which position is associated with a paused or stopped/locked state for the applicator head  910 . In some embodiments, control surface  928  may be manipulated so as to move through an entire revolution or even several revolutions about axis  946 , with the movement of control surface  928  being associated with head  910  passing through a series of states, such as different directions, speeds, types of motion, no motion, locked, etc. In other embodiments, control surface  928  may be revolved around only a fraction of the full revolution, for instance, about 90 degrees of the full circumference. So, for example, the more control surface  928  is moved in one direction, the higher the amplitude of a lateral side-to-side motion. In one embodiment, control surface  928  moves through various bi-directional motion (oscillating) states. In a preferred embodiment, control surface  928  moves through the states of: stopped/locked, movement in a first direction (e.g. counterclockwise rotation), paused, and movement in a second direction (e.g. clockwise rotation). In some embodiments, there may be a fifth position, stopped/locked, such that the control surface  928  moves through the states of: stopped/locked, movement in a first direction (e.g. counterclockwise rotation), paused, movement in a second direction (e.g. clockwise rotation), and stopped/locked. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that an oscillatory motion which moves more in one direction than another over multiple periods of oscillation, such as two steps in a clockwise direction and one step in a counterclockwise direction, is still considered, overall, movement in a clockwise direction. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 9 , the applicator has a circular geometry about the longitudinal axis  944  of the handle  902 . Consequently, looking along axis  944  of handle  902  from either end of applicator  900 , the profile would be of a circle. But, the control surface profile may take many different forms to enable a user to grasp and operate the control surface. The control surface may be ergonomically contoured; for example, the control surface may have a triangular, rectangular, or polygonal cross-section. Alternatively, the control surface may be a combination of curves and straight edges, for example, a concave control surface collar surrounding a portion of the handle.  FIGS. 10-13  illustrate a number of different profiles that may be used for the handle and control surface. According to the embodiment of  FIG. 10 , the handle  1002  and the control surface  1028  may have a generally triangular profile. According to the embodiment of  FIG. 11 , the handle  1102  and the control surface  1128  may have a generally D-shaped profile. According to the embodiment of  FIG. 12 , the handle  1202  and control surface  1228  may have a generally elliptical profile. Finally, according to the embodiment of  FIG. 13 , the handle  1302  may have a generally circular profile with a series of longitudinally-oriented grooves, while the control surface  1328  may have a more uniformly circular profile. 
       FIG. 14  illustrates a variation on the embodiment of  FIG. 9  wherein the control surface  1428  is arranged as a shroud about the stem  1404 , which is connected to the applicator head  1410 . According to this embodiment, stem  1404  passes through the control surface/shroud  1428 , permitting shroud  1428  to be manipulated and to rotate about the same axis as stem  1404 . In another embodiment, the shroud may not move. The applicator may comprise a flexible drive shaft. Also in another embodiment, the applicator head may be situated at an angle from the handle axis and be moveable. Similar to the embodiment of  FIG. 9 , control surface  1428  may be manipulated in one direction, or the other, or about the axis through one full revolution, several revolutions, or only a fraction of a full revolution. Control surface  1428  may be biased toward one position, or may be free to revolve about the axis of the control surface. 
     Control surface  1428  may be transparent or translucent, for example, to permit visualization of stem  1404 , a feature which may be used in any or all of the embodiments disclosed herein and which is not restricted to only the embodiment of  FIG. 14 . As an alternative, only a part or portion of control surface  1428  may be transparent or translucent. As a further alternative, a portion of the structure on which the control surface is mounted or to which the control surface is attached may be transparent or translucent. For example, the portion of the handle just below control surface  1428  in the embodiment of  FIG. 14 , or behind buttons  450 ,  452  in the embodiment of  FIG. 4  may be transparent or translucent. 
       FIGS. 15-19  illustrate a series of embodiments wherein the control surface has at least one graspable surface that may permit the user to determine a position to grasp the control surface. For example, the applicator  1500  comprises a graspable surface  1550  that may have a surface effect that makes surface  1550  have a different tactile response than the remainder of the control surface  1528 . For example, surface  1550  may have a different level of friction or roughness than the remainder of the control surface, or surface  1550  may be made of a different material than the remainder of control surface  1528 , such as a rubber or rubber-like material or a gel-like material, for example. While surface  1550  may have a different surface effect, surface  1550  is not intended to depend substantially from the remainder of control surface  1528 . In contrast,  FIG. 16  illustrates a tab  1650  that depends from the control surface  1628  to permit the user to place a thumb, for example, against tab  1650  to manipulate control surface  1628 . It is not a requirement that the control surface be located at the extreme-most proximal point on the handle to be described as a proximal control surface. As illustrated in the embodiment of  FIG. 16 , control surface  1628  is set back some distance from the extreme-most proximal end of the handle  1602 .  FIGS. 17 and 18  are end views of the embodiment of  FIG. 16 ; they illustrate that tab  1650  may vary in thickness about the axis of revolution  1646  of control surface  1628  as shown in FIG.  16 .  FIG. 19  is another variation on this general theme, and has a pair of opposing tabs  1950 , from which it will be recognized that a plurality of such tabs  1950  may be provided as desired. 
     The embodiment of  FIG. 20  illustrates an alternative wherein the control surface  2028  is positioned beyond the proximal end of the handle  2002 , and along the stem  2004  of the applicator  2000 . 
     As mentioned above,  FIGS. 21-23  illustrate a set of embodiments wherein the control surface is not confined or limited to an orientation wherein the control surface moves about an axis aligned with or parallel to the axis of the handle. According to the embodiment of  FIG. 21 , the control surface  2128  of the applicator  2100  comprises a wheel  2150  that rotates or is pivotable about an axis  2152  that is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis  2144  of the handle  2102 . While a wheel is shown, it will be recognized that control surface  2128  could have as easily been a sector of the wheel instead. Moreover, as was explained above, control surface  2128  may be biased toward one position from which control surface  2128  may be moved, or control surface  2128  may be moved through one or more revolutions. 
     According to the embodiment of  FIG. 22 , the control surface  2228  of the applicator  2200  comprises a pivot or joint  2250  to which the applicator head  2210  is attached or through which head  2210  passes. Application of force to the side of head  2210  causes joint  2250  to move about the axis  2252 , and may cause head  2210  to rotate depending on which side of handle  2202  head  2210  moves. 
     In the embodiment of  FIG. 23 , the control surface  2328  of the applicator  2300  is defined by a shroud  2350  that is attached to a proximal end of the handle  2302  at a pivot point  2352 . Force applied to one side or the other of the shroud  2350  causes shroud  2350  to move about axis  2352 . Similar to the embodiment of  FIG. 22 , movement of shroud  2350  about axis  2352  may cause the applicator head  2310  to rotate depending on the movement of shroud  2350  more to one side or the other of handle  2302 . 
     A further embodiment of an applicator according to the present disclosure is introduced in the schematic of  FIG. 24 . The exemplary applicator  2400  comprises a handle  2402 , a stem  2404 , and an applicator head  2410 . Handle  2402  comprises a drive  2420 . In particular, handle  2402  has a proximal end and a distal end, and drive  2420  is operatively associated with head  2410  at the proximal end of handle  2402  to move at least part of head  2410  relative to handle  2402 . According to the embodiment as illustrated, the movement of head  2410  relative to handle  2402  is rotational in nature. In other embodiments, the movement may be lateral, vibrational, etc. Also according to the embodiment as illustrated, drive  2420  comprises a motor  2422 , a transmission  2426 , a power source  2424 —preferably in the form of one or more batteries, and two sets of contacts  2480 ,  2482 . One set of contacts  2480  is operatively associated with motor  2422 , while the second set of contacts  2482  is operatively associated with batteries  2424 . In one embodiment, sets of contacts  2480 ,  2482  are moveable relative to each other in directions aligned with or parallel to the longitudinal axis of handle  2402  between a first setting and a second setting. In the first setting, first and second sets of contacts  2480 ,  2482  are inoperatively associated with each other. In the second setting, first and second sets  2480 ,  2482  are operatively associated with each other. As illustrated, a resilient member  2492  may be used to bias drive  2420  toward a certain position. In a preferred embodiment, resilient member  2492  is in the form of a compression spring, is disposed between motor  2422  and power source  2424 . In other embodiments, resilient member  2492  may be disposed near a control surface. As further shown in  FIG. 24 , a control surface  2428  may be disposed at the proximal end of handle  2402 , operatively associated with drive  2420 , and moveable through a plurality of positions about an axis  2446  aligned with a longitudinal axis  2444  of handle  2402 . 
       FIGS. 25 ,  26 A, and  26 B show different control surfaces embodiments. In a preferred embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 25 , each of the plurality of positions  2560 ,  2562 ,  2564 ,  2572  is marked on the outer surface of the control surface  2528 , such that when a particular position  2560 ,  2562 ,  2564 ,  2572  marking is aligned with an indicator  2568 , for example, a stripe marked on the outer surface of the handle  2502 , an indication is provided to the user regarding the position of control surface  2528 . In other embodiments, every position in the plurality of positions need not be marked; for instance, with an applicator having various speed positions, only the min and max positions need be marked. 
     In a preferred embodiment, as depicted in  FIG. 25 , the plurality of positions is associated with a first drive state, a second drive state, a third drive state, and a fourth drive state. Movement of control surface  2528  through the plurality of positions causes drive  2420  (see  FIG. 24 ) to operate according to the first drive state, the second drive state, the third drive state, and the fourth drive state. Positions  2560 ,  2562 ,  2564 ,  2572  provide visual guidance to the user of the applicator  2500  as to the operation of the applicator head  2510 . First position  2560  is associated with a circular-shaped icon and a first drive state, which corresponds to no movement of head  2510 . Second position  2562  is associated with a left-pointing arrow-shaped icon and a second drive state, which corresponds to a first direction of movement of head  2510 . Third position  2564  is associated with a right-pointing arrow-shaped icon and a third drive state, which corresponds to a second direction of movement of head  2510  which is opposite the first direction of movement. Fourth position  2572  is associated with a lock-shaped icon and a fourth drive state, which corresponds to no movement of head  2510 . As such, control surface  2528  of the preferred embodiment moves successively through fourth  2572 , second  2562 , first  2560 , and third  2564  positions and their corresponding states, wherein the first state corresponds to no motion of the applicator head, the second state corresponds to a first motion of at least part of the applicator head, the third state corresponds to no motion of applicator head, and the fourth state corresponds to a second motion of at least part of the applicator head. The second and fourth positions may be separated by a position related to no motion. 
     Control surface  2528  may be formed in accordance with the embodiments discussed above. In a particular embodiment, control surface  2528  may be biased, through the use of resilient member  2492  (shown in  FIG. 24 ) (preferably in the form of a compression spring) operatively associated with the control surface, toward first position  2560 , such that control surface  2528  moves alternatively between first position  2560 , second  2562 , and third  2564  positions. 
     In another embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 26A , each of the plurality of positions  2660 ,  2662 ,  2664 ,  2672 ,  2674  is marked on the handle  2602 , such that when a particular position  2660 ,  2662 ,  2664 ,  2672 ,  2674  is aligned with an indicator  2668 , for example, a stripe marked on the control surface  2628 , an indication is provided to the user regarding the position of control surface  2628 . In a preferred embodiment, position  2672  corresponds to a locked state, position  2662  corresponds to a motion drive state, position  2660  corresponds to a paused state, position  2664  corresponds to another motion drive state, and position  2674  corresponds to another locked state. 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 26B , each of the plurality of positions  2660 ,  2664 ,  2674  is marked on the handle  2602 , such that when a particular position  2660 ,  2664 ,  2674  is aligned with an indicator  2668 , for example, a stripe marked on the control surface  2628 , an indication is provided to the user regarding the position of control surface  2628 . In a preferred embodiment, position  2672  corresponds to a locked state, position  2660  corresponds to a paused state, and position  2664  corresponds to another motion drive state. Between any two positions there may be a continuum of states which correspond to varying speeds or intensities of the motions of the two positions. As shown, as indicator  2668  moves from position  2660  to position  2664 , the intensity increases. Or, between any two positions there may be one or more states corresponding to no motion of the applicator head. 
     In a preferred embodiment, when an applicator is screwed onto or off of a product bottle, there is potential for the applicator to get turned on accidentally and waste power. For instance, if an applicator has five positions—such as lock, reverse, pause, forward, lock—when unscrewing the handle from the bottle, the applicator may turn itself on and off as it is removed from the bottle, and end up in the off position so the user does not even notice the intermediate motion. To solve this problem, the applicator may be forced to power off when a user screws the handle off of or back onto the bottle. In one embodiment, the handle may be pressed on to the bottle and pass through a “click” to engage the seal between the handle and bottle; this thrusting motion of the handle meeting the bottle may also be used to disengage the motor, and pulling the handle out of the bottle again may act to engage it again. As one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate, a threaded engagement between the handle and bottle is not the only way to seal the two together. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the control surface preferentially seeks an off position as the applicator is pulled from the bottle or replaced in the bottle. Referring to  FIG. 26A , indicator  2668  would be located at stop/lock position  2672  when application torque is applied to the bottle—in other words, when handle  2602  is tightened onto the bottle (not shown). Conversely, indicator  2668  would be located at stop/lock position  2674  when removal torque is applied to remove handle  2602  from the bottle—in other words, when handle  2602  is removed from the bottle for use. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the thread may be opposite of traditional way—For example, if a left-handed thread is present in the applicator, indicator  2668  would be in stop/lock position  2674  when application torque is applied, and in stop/lock position  2672  when removal torque is applied. 
     Of course, the control surfaces and positions illustrated in  FIGS. 25 and 26  are only two embodiments; many other variations of control surfaces, positions, and icons may be used with applicators according to the present disclosure. For example, in place of geometric symbols, alphanumeric symbols may be used. In particular embodiments, there may be a resilient member (not shown, but discussed above in relation to  FIG. 24 ) associated between the control surface and the handle which biases the drive or control surface to a certain position, for example, to keep the indicator centered when not in use. Or, geometric differences may cause the drive or control surface to bias to a certain position, for instance, ramping so it can come to rest or interference to a center locator. 
     As illustrated in the embodiments of  FIGS. 27A and 27B , it is not necessary that the positions be visible in all states or at all times. A position  2762  associated with the control surface  2728  is not visible through the indicator window  2768  provided when control surface  2728  is in a first state (shown in  FIG. 27A ). However, manipulation of control surface  2728  into a second state (illustrated in  FIG. 27B ) causes movement of indicator  2768 , which movement reveals position  2762 . 
     Additionally, rather than using icons disposed on the control surface,  FIG. 28  illustrates an embodiment wherein positions  2860 ,  2862 ,  2864  in the form of lights, such as light emitting diodes (LEDs), may be used to signal that the control surface  2828  has been moved between states, resulting a change of state of the drive. In certain embodiments, illumination of position  2862  could be used to signal rotation of the applicator head  2810  in a first direction, illumination of position  2864  could be used to signal rotation of head  2810  in a second direction, and illumination of position  2860  could be used to signal no rotation. Illuminating positions may be used to signal other events as well, such as low battery, prolonged use (which could lead to product fatigue or excessive battery use), activation of an additional temporary effect such as motion or heat, etc. The intensity of the light may be proportional to the product benefit. For instance, high-speed motion might be represented by a bright light, while low-speed motion is represented by a dim light. A series of lights may light up in order to indicate the intensity of motion. Alternatively, lights could indicate the load on the applicator. For example, red lights might signal to the user that too much torque is being applied, so the user should pull the applicator away from the eye. 
     Another means of communicating with the user is via sound. Sound indicators on the applicator may be triggered by similar things as discussed above regarding lights. As speed increases, so may the pitch or volume of a sound; sound may act as a metaphor for the motion type—e.g. if a turbo switch (in the form of an additional control surface) is pressed for a high speed oscillatory rotation, then the corresponding sound may also oscillate its pitch at the same or different frequency of motion change. 
     Still other embodiments according to the present disclosure are illustrated in  FIGS. 29-31 . In these embodiments, the control surface disposed at the proximal end of the handle (also called the “first control surface”) may be combined with an additional control surface disposed anywhere on the applicator or secondary packaging. The additional control surface may be operated independently or in combination with the first control surface to influence the drive. Certain of these additional control surfaces may modify the operation of the first control surface, although it will be recognized that modifications of the operation of the first control surface may be achieved by mechanisms that do not require direct user input; for example, an orientation sensor (such as a gyro) that enables or disables the first control surface depending on the orientation of the applicator. While these embodiments illustrate automated applicators wherein there is a first control surface and one additional control surface, it will be recognized that more than one additional control surface may also be provided. 
     According to the embodiment of  FIG. 29 , an applicator  2900  comprises a first control surface  2928  and an additional, second control surface  2950 . Operation of second control surface  2950  may influence the operation of first control surface  2928  or the response of the drive (not shown) in response to operation of first control surface  2928 . For example, second control surface  2950  may be associated with the power supply so as to either operatively or inoperatively associate the drive with the power supply. In this fashion, operation of first control surface  2928  would not cause the drive to assume one of the plurality of states (forward and reverse, for example), unless second control surface  2950  is also placed in an operative state to operatively associate the drive with the power supply. Alternatively, second control surface  2950  may influence either the signal provided by first control surface  2928  or the drive directly to vary the sensitivity of first control surface  2928  to manipulation by the user. For example, certain users may desire a more responsive first control surface  2928 , while other users may desire a less responsive control surface; by varying the level of signal provided by first control surface  2928  according to its manipulation, applicator  2900  may provide either mode of operation. 
     According to another embodiment, second control surface  2950  may provide a locking benefit. Second control surface  2950  may be disposed separate from first control surface  2928 , or it may be integrated into or disposed on top of first control surface  2928 . Second control surface  2950  may be operatively associated with a mechanical device that actually prohibits movement of first control surface  2928  relative to the handle when second control surface  2950  is in a locked state. Or, upon placing second control surface  2950  in the locked state, applicator head  2910  may move in a particular direction until second control surface  2950  is moved to an unlocked state. Alternatively, second control surface  2950  may be operatively associated with a control circuit and may provide a signal to the control circuit to hold a particular state assumed in response to a signal received from first control surface  2928  until second control surface  2950  is manipulated further. As a further alternative, the locked state may be maintained for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., in response to a time delay circuit or mechanical analog), whereupon head  2910  may assume a state such as off. In another embodiment, second control surface  2950  may be represented as a position on first control surface  2928 , such as a lock position. Relatedly, second control surface  2950  may function as a battery engage/disengage mechanism. 
     In another embodiment, a second control surface may be used to record or play a “motion experience.” An applicator may be capable of moving in, for example, a volumizing rotational motion, a separating oscillation-rotation motion, and a lifting motion. Once users find a way they like to apply their cosmetic, it is desirable to be able to repeat the application experience. So, a user might engage the second control surface so that the preferred application motions and timing may be recorded and calculated by a microprocessor circuit. Then, the user may use the same procedure each day by using the second control surface to play back the recording. Or, the applicator may be able to “sync” with a retail display to transfer an operation mode, or “motion experience,” to the applicator. In this way, the second control surface may just be an override that plays back this “application demo” that the applicator acquired from the retail display. This demonstrates to users the multiple benefits encompassed in one applicator. Or, users may be rewarded for coming back to a retail display, for instance by re-programming their applicator by syncing it with the display to acquire one or many motion experiences. 
     In some embodiments, second control surface  2950  may cause a change in the operation of the drive of applicator  2900 , and in particular in the motion of head  2910 . Second control surface  2950  may alter the current state, for example, switch from a unidirectional motion to an oscillating motion, add lateral backwards-and-forwards motion in addition to rotation, or add vibration in addition to rotation. In some embodiments, second control surface  2950  is a push button, depression of which may result in an increase or decrease in the speed, frequency, intensity, amplitude, or time duration of the motion of head  2910 . The change may be timed, such that for each manipulation of second control surface  2950 , the speed is increased for a fixed amount of time, or the change may continue until manipulation of second control surface  2950  ceases. Whether an increase in speed would result in an increase in linear speed or angular speed, for example, would vary according to the normal operation of head  2910 . 
     In other embodiments, second control surface  2950  may introduce a new state such as heat, cold, light, sound, product dosing, torque control, mixing, etc. In one embodiment, second control surface  2950  may generate resistive heating. In another embodiment, second control surface  2950  may turn on a light that is directed towards the user or head  2910 . Or, the light may be directed through at least a part of head  2910  itself. In another embodiment, second control surface  2950  may enable product delivery from the handle through the stem to the applicator head. 
     The embodiments according to  FIGS. 30-32  illustrate an applicator with a first control surface and an additional, temporary control surface, wherein the temporary control surface may be separated from the remainder of the applicator. The temporary control surface may be used to permit a prospective customer to operate the drive and observe the motion of the applicator head without providing the prospective customer access to the first control surface. This may be important where the control surface  3028 ,  3128 ,  3228  is at the proximate end of the handle  3002 ,  3102 ,  3202 , close to the applicator head  3010 ,  3110 ,  3210 . Certain prospective customers may be hesitant to purchase the applicator if they believe other users have had their fingers near head  3010 ,  3110 ,  3210  because of the perception of an unsanitary condition. As illustrated in  FIG. 30 , the temporary control surface  3050  may be disposed on or near handle  3002 , but perhaps in a different location than first control surface  3028  so as to permit manipulation through secondary packaging without manipulating first control surface  3028 , for example. As illustrated in  FIGS. 31 and 32 , the temporary control surface  3150 ,  3250  is disposed outside of secondary packaging  3170 ,  3270  to permit operation of the applicator  3100 ,  3200  while it is retained within packaging  3170 ,  3270 . Temporary control surface  3050  may be removed by the user after purchase of applicator. 
     While temporary control surface  3050 ,  3150 ,  3250  may permit the prospective customer to operate the drive in the same manner as it might be operated using control surface  3028 ,  3128 ,  3228 , it may also be possible for temporary control surface  3050 ,  3150 ,  3250  to permit operation of the drive only according to certain of the operative states possible through use of first control surface  3028 ,  3128 ,  3228 . For example, in the embodiments in  FIGS. 30 and 31 , temporary control surface  3050 ,  3150  may operate to close the circuit between the power supply and the drive of the applicator  3000 ,  3100 . According to such an embodiment, applicator  3000 ,  3100  would then operate according to the state of first control surface  3028 ,  3128 , which may be set before placement in secondary packaging  3170 . Thus, operation of temporary control surface  3050 ,  3150  may result in motion of head  3010 ,  3110  in a single direction. While temporary control surfaces  3050 ,  3150 ,  3250  have been illustrated with a single button or input device, it will be recognized that a plurality of buttons or input devices may be used instead. 
     In certain embodiments, as illustrated in  FIGS. 30 and 31 , temporary control surface  3050 ,  3150  is associated with an insert  3060 ,  3160  that may be operatively associated with the power source of applicator  3000 ,  3100 . Insert  3060 ,  3160  acts as an insulating strip and may be used to connect temporary control surface  3050 ,  3150  to the power source. Other structures may be used to operatively associate the control surface with a power source external to the applicator, such as inductive couplings. In other embodiments, the temporary control surface may be operatively associated with a power source separate from that of the applicator.  FIG. 32  illustrates one such embodiment, wherein temporary control surface  3250  is operatively associated with applicator  3200 , and to a set of contacts  3280  via a pair of leads. Contacts  3280  may be operatively associated with a power source by placing contacts  3280  in contact with a pair of contacts associated with the power source, which may be incorporated into a display. 
     Assembly and Use of the Applicator 
     Turning back to  FIG. 1 , applicator  100  may be manufactured as a single unit. That is, applicator head  110  may be operatively associated with drive  120  in such a fashion that attempts to inoperatively associate head  110  with drive  120  may result in damage to one or both of head  110  and drive  120 , rendering head  110  and/or drive  120  inoperable. Alternatively, head  110  and/or drive  120  may be operatively associated with handle  102  to the same effect. Applicator  100  may also be packaged and sold together with a bottle of the cosmetic, mascara for example. 
     However, the components of applicator  100  may also be manufactured so as to be packaged and sold separately. An example of such a system is shown in  FIG. 33 . An applicator head  3310  may be selectively detachable from the drive  3320  and/or handle  3302 , such that a variety of heads  3310  may be used with a given drive  3320  and/or handle  3302 . This permits the user to change between heads  3310  having different applicator element profiles or applicator element distributions without the need to obtain or purchase more than a single drive  3320 /handle  3302  unit. According to these embodiments, one or more heads  3310  and a drive  3320 /handle  3302  unit may be packaged and sold as a kit, and heads  3310  may be packaged and sold separately from a drive  3320 /handle  3302  unit as refills or replacements. 
     In some embodiments, applicator head  3310  may be packaged and sold as a unit  3390  with a bottle  3392  of cosmetic material (for example, mascara). In certain embodiments, head  3310  may comprise a threaded portion  3394  that engages a similarly threaded portion  3396  of the bottle  3392 . Head  3310  may then be operatively associated with drive  3320 /handle  3302  unit at the time of use. Drive  3320 /handle  3302  may be packaged and sold with the combination  3390  of head  3310  and bottle  3392  as part of a kit, or drive  3320 /handle  3302  may be packaged and sold separately from head  3310 /bottle  3392 . 
     Notably, applicator head  3310  is not the only component which may be packaged and sold separately. As also illustrated in  FIG. 33 , the power source  3324  may be selectively detachable from the remainder of drive  3320 . In one embodiment, removable power source  3324  may be in the form of a removable compartment which may snap or screw onto the handle. Power source  3324  may comprise only power, or power plus additional features. The power source compartment may be color-coded or branded with indicia or iconic drawings indicating the intended cosmetic benefit to the user. In another embodiment, power source  3324  may be operatively associated with a drive circuit to form a type of intelligent power source that may not only provide voltage and current to drive  3320 , but also may control the speed of applicator head  3310  to provide a non-fixed rotational speed, or provide some other control function (directionality of motion, for example). Power source  3324  may also have its own control surface  3350 , which may operate according to the additional control surfaces referenced above. Selection and combination of one intelligent power source or another with the remainder of drive  3320  may significantly influence the performance of applicator  3300 , and even control surface  3328 . Power source  3324  may be packaged and sold with heads  3310  separate from other elements of applicator  3300 . 
     The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean “about 40 mm.” 
     Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or related patent or application, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern. 
     While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.