Patent Abstract:
A precision cosmetic brush is disclosed, and comprises a brush portion configured for engaging a surface, a ferrule supporting the brush portion, and a handle connected to the brush portion by the ferrule, the handle having an elongate body with a triangular cross-sectional profile, the handle tapered along its length. In embodiments, the brush portion is white or has visual indicators to facilitate the ability of a user to more precisely apply cosmetic material to a surface.

Full Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
       [0001]    The present application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/275,316, filed on Jan. 6, 2016, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein. 
     
    
     FIELD 
       [0002]    The present invention generally relates to a cosmetic brush with a tapered handle having three sides to facilitate precision brushing and/or other manipulation of a surface. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0003]    Cosmetic brushes include a brush portion and a handle portion extending therefrom to facilitate engagement of the brush by a user or tool. Cosmetic brushes may be used in a variety of situations, for example, to manipulate, remove, and/or apply cosmetics to a user&#39;s skin or to another medium for viewing purposes. 
         [0004]    Referring to  FIG. 1 , many prior art cosmetic brushes incorporate handles that are cylindrical in shape. Due to the delicate nature of cosmetic application, removal, and/or manipulation, such a configuration of the brush handle may be cumbersome and yield imprecise results, for example, by leading to uneven distribution of cosmetics or due to lack of fine control over the brush by the user. 
         [0005]    What is needed is a precision cosmetic brush to obtain more controlled application, removal, and/or distribution of cosmetics or other manipulation of a surface. 
         [0006]    These and other objects, benefits, and advantages provided by the solutions enabled by embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying figures. 
         [0007]    Applicant has discovered a solution to the need for precision control over a cosmetic brush by providing a uniquely-configured brush handle as described herein. 
         [0008]    In an exemplary embodiment, a precision cosmetic brush is disclosed, and comprises a brush portion configured for engaging a surface and applying a cosmetic material to the surface, a ferrule supporting the brush portion, and a handle connected to the brush portion with the ferrule, the handle having a first end that is connected to the brush portion, a second end extending away from the brush portion, and an elongate body extending between the first and second ends of the handle. The handle is configured to facilitate control by a user of the precision cosmetic brush for applying the cosmetic material to the surface, and includes, along at least a segment of the handle, a triangular cross-section configured for the user to hold the precision cosmetic brush, and a taper in a direction extending away from the brush portion such that the triangular cross-section of the segment of the handle is larger toward the first end of the handle and tapers toward the second end of the handle. 
         [0009]    In exemplary embodiments, the second end of the handle has a blunt configuration. 
         [0010]    In exemplary embodiments, the segment of the handle has a taper that is within a range of 0.01 mm and 0.2 mm per unit mm along a length of the segment of the handle. 
         [0011]    In exemplary embodiments, the handle is at least partially transparent. 
         [0012]    In exemplary embodiments, the handle is configured to transmit between 75% and 95% of incident light therethrough. 
         [0013]    In exemplary embodiments, the handle is at least partially opaque. 
         [0014]    In exemplary embodiments, the brush portion includes one or more visual indicators. 
         [0015]    In exemplary embodiments, the one or more visual indicators include at least one or more bands, marks or striations. 
         [0016]    In exemplary embodiments, the brush portion includes a color gradient that includes a darker color toward the ferrule and a lighter color away from the ferrule. 
         [0017]    In exemplary embodiments, the brush portion includes a color gradient from gray toward the ferrule to white away from the ferrule. 
         [0018]    In exemplary embodiments, the ferrule is detachable such that the brush portion is removable from the ferrule. 
         [0019]    In exemplary embodiments, the brush portion that is configured for engaging a surface is configured for engaging at least one of skin, hair or a display template. 
         [0020]    In other exemplary embodiments, a precision cosmetic applicator is disclosed, and comprises an application portion configured for engaging a surface and applying a cosmetic material to the surface, and a handle connected to the application portion, the handle having a first end that is connected to the application portion, a second end extending away from the application portion, and an elongate body extending between the first and second ends of the handle. The handle is configured to facilitate control by a user of the precision cosmetic applicator for applying the cosmetic material to the surface, and includes, along at least a segment of the handle, a triangular cross-section configured for the user to hold the precision cosmetic applicator, and a taper in a direction extending away from the application portion such that the triangular cross-section of the segment of the handle is larger toward the first end of the handle and tapers toward the second end of the handle. 
         [0021]    In exemplary embodiments, the application portion includes one of a brush, comb, wand, stylus, sponge, silicone or a doe foot. 
         [0022]    In exemplary embodiments, the second end of the handle has a blunt configuration. 
         [0023]    In exemplary embodiments, the segment of the handle has a taper that is within a range of 0.01 mm and 0.2 mm per unit mm along a length of the segment of the handle. 
         [0024]    In exemplary embodiments, the handle is at least partially transparent. 
         [0025]    In exemplary embodiments, the handle is configured to transmit between 75% and 95% of incident light therethrough. 
         [0026]    In exemplary embodiments, the handle is at least partially opaque. 
         [0027]    In exemplary embodiments, the application portion includes one or more visual indicators. 
         [0028]    In exemplary embodiments, the one or more visual indicators include at least one or more bands, marks or striations. 
         [0029]    In exemplary embodiments, the application portion includes a color gradient that includes a darker color toward the handle and a lighter color away from the handle. 
         [0030]    In exemplary embodiments, the application portion includes a color gradient from gray toward the handle to white away from the handle. 
         [0031]    In exemplary embodiments, the application portion that is configured for engaging a surface is configured for engaging at least one of skin, hair or a display template. 
         [0032]    In other exemplary embodiments, a precision cosmetic brush is disclosed, and comprises a brush portion configured for engaging a surface and applying a cosmetic material to the surface, and a handle connected to the brush portion, the handle having a first end that is connected to the brush portion, a second end extending away from the brush portion, and an elongate body extending between the first and second ends of the handle. The handle is configured to facilitate control by a user of the precision cosmetic brush for applying the cosmetic material to the surface, and includes, along at least a segment of the handle, a triangular cross-section configured for the user to hold the precision cosmetic brush, and a taper in a direction extending from the second end of the handle toward the brush portion such that the triangular cross-section of the segment of the handle is larger toward the second end of the handle and tapers upward therefrom. 
         [0033]    In exemplary embodiments, the second end of the handle has a blunt configuration. 
         [0034]    In exemplary embodiments, the handle is at least partially transparent. 
         [0035]    In exemplary embodiments, the handle is configured to transmit between 75% and 95% of incident light therethrough. 
         [0036]    In exemplary embodiments, the handle is at least partially opaque. 
         [0037]    In exemplary embodiments, the brush portion includes one or more visual indicators. 
         [0038]    In exemplary embodiments, the one or more visual indicators include at least one or more bands, marks or striations. 
         [0039]    In exemplary embodiments, the brush portion includes a color gradient that includes a darker color toward the handle and a lighter color away from the handle. 
         [0040]    In exemplary embodiments, the brush portion includes a color gradient from gray toward the handle to white away from the handle. 
         [0041]    In exemplary embodiments, the brush portion that is configured for engaging a surface is configured for engaging at least one of skin, hair or a display template. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0042]    Various exemplary embodiments of this invention will be described in detail, with reference to the following figures, wherein: 
           [0043]      FIG. 1  is a front view of a set of prior art cosmetic brushes with handles; 
           [0044]      FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0045]      FIG. 3  is a left side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0046]      FIG. 4  is a right side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0047]      FIG. 5  is a bottom plan view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0048]      FIG. 6  is a top plan view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0049]      FIG. 7  is a front side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0050]      FIG. 8  is a rear side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0051]      FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0052]      FIG. 10  is a left side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 9 ; 
           [0053]      FIG. 11  is a right side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 9 ; 
           [0054]      FIG. 12  is a bottom plan view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 9 ; 
           [0055]      FIG. 13  is a top plan view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 9 ; 
           [0056]      FIG. 14  is a front side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 9 ; 
           [0057]      FIG. 15  is a rear side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 9 ; 
           [0058]      FIG. 16  is a perspective view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0059]      FIG. 17  is a left side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 16 ; 
           [0060]      FIG. 18  is a right side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 16 ; 
           [0061]      FIG. 19  is a bottom plan view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 16 ; 
           [0062]      FIG. 20  is a top plan view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 16 ; 
           [0063]      FIG. 21  is a front side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 16 ; 
           [0064]      FIG. 22  is a rear side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 16 ; 
           [0065]      FIG. 23  is a front view of a set of cosmetic brushes with handles according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0066]      FIG. 24A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0067]      FIG. 24B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 24A ; 
           [0068]      FIG. 25A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0069]      FIG. 25B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 25A ; 
           [0070]      FIG. 26A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0071]      FIG. 26B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 26A ; 
           [0072]      FIG. 27A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0073]      FIG. 27B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 27A ; 
           [0074]      FIG. 28A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0075]      FIG. 28B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 28A ; 
           [0076]      FIG. 29A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0077]      FIG. 29B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 29A ; 
           [0078]      FIG. 30A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0079]      FIG. 30B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 30A ; 
           [0080]      FIG. 31A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0081]      FIG. 31B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 31A ; 
           [0082]      FIG. 31C  is another cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 31A ; 
           [0083]      FIG. 32A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0084]      FIG. 32B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 32A ; 
           [0085]      FIG. 33A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0086]      FIG. 33B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 33A ; 
           [0087]      FIG. 34A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0088]      FIG. 34B  is a side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 34A ; 
           [0089]      FIG. 34C  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 34A ; 
           [0090]      FIG. 35A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0091]      FIG. 35B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 35A ; 
           [0092]      FIG. 36A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0093]      FIG. 36B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 36A ; 
           [0094]      FIG. 37A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0095]      FIG. 37B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 37A ; 
           [0096]      FIG. 38A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0097]      FIG. 38B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 38A ; 
           [0098]      FIG. 39A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0099]      FIG. 39B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 39A ; 
           [0100]      FIG. 40A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0101]      FIG. 40B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 40A ; 
           [0102]      FIG. 41A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0103]      FIG. 41B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 41A ; 
           [0104]      FIG. 42A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0105]      FIG. 42B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 42A ; 
           [0106]      FIG. 43A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0107]      FIG. 43B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 43A ; 
           [0108]      FIG. 44A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0109]      FIG. 44B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 44A ; 
           [0110]      FIG. 45A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0111]      FIG. 45B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 45A ; 
           [0112]      FIG. 46A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0113]      FIG. 46B  is a side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 46A ; 
           [0114]      FIG. 46C  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 46A ; 
           [0115]      FIG. 47A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0116]      FIG. 47B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 47A ; 
           [0117]      FIG. 48A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0118]      FIG. 48B  is a side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 48A ; 
           [0119]      FIG. 48C  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 48A ; 
           [0120]      FIG. 49A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0121]      FIG. 49B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 49A ; 
           [0122]      FIG. 49C  is a side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 49A ; 
           [0123]      FIG. 50A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0124]      FIG. 50B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 50A ; 
           [0125]      FIG. 51A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0126]      FIG. 51B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 51A ; 
           [0127]      FIG. 51C  is a side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 51A ; 
           [0128]      FIG. 52A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0129]      FIG. 52B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 52A ; 
           [0130]      FIG. 53A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0131]      FIG. 53B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 53A ; 
           [0132]      FIG. 54A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0133]      FIG. 54B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 54A ; 
           [0134]      FIG. 54C  is a side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 54A ; 
           [0135]      FIG. 55A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0136]      FIG. 55B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 55A ; 
           [0137]      FIG. 55C  is a side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 55A ; 
           [0138]      FIG. 56A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0139]      FIG. 56B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 56A ; 
           [0140]      FIG. 56C  is a side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 56A ; 
           [0141]      FIG. 56D  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 56C ; 
           [0142]      FIG. 57A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0143]      FIG. 57B  is a side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 57A ; 
           [0144]      FIG. 57C  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 57A ; 
           [0145]      FIG. 57D  is a top view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 57A ; 
           [0146]      FIG. 57E  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0147]      FIG. 57F  is a side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 57E ; 
           [0148]      FIG. 58A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0149]      FIG. 58B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 58A ; 
           [0150]      FIG. 58C  is a side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 58A ; 
           [0151]      FIG. 58D  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 58C ; 
           [0152]      FIG. 59A  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0153]      FIG. 59B  is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 59A ; 
           [0154]      FIG. 59C  is a side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 59A ; 
           [0155]      FIG. 60  is a top view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0156]      FIG. 61  is a perspective view of cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0157]      FIG. 62  is another perspective view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 61 ; 
           [0158]      FIG. 63  is another perspective view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 61 ; 
           [0159]      FIG. 64  is another perspective view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 61 ; 
           [0160]      FIG. 65  is a front view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 61 ; 
           [0161]      FIG. 66  is a side view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 61 ; 
           [0162]      FIG. 67  is a bottom plan view of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 61 ; 
           [0163]      FIG. 68  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and 
           [0164]      FIG. 69  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0165]    The present invention generally relates to a precision cosmetic brush or applicator with a tapered handle. In embodiments, the present invention is directed to a brush or applicator including an ergonomic handle to facilitate precision brushing of a surface and/or other manipulation of a surface with a brush portion/application portion. While exemplary embodiments are described herein with respect to a brush, it will be understood that the handle portion configurations described herein may be used with a different type of cosmetic applicators/implements, for example, a brush, comb, wand, stylus, sponge, silicone or a doe foot, to name a few. 
         [0166]    It will be further understood that the handle portion configurations described herein may also be used with one or more of the brush and applicator types and configurations mentioned below or one or more of the following cosmetic applicators/implements for, for example, makeup mist, skincare mist, lipstick, lip crayon, lip gloss, lip liner, lip exfoliator, eyeliner pencil, liquid eyeliner, cream eyeliner, powder eyeliner, eye crayon, mascara, foundation cream, foundation serum, foundation powder, liquid foundation, eyeshadow powder, eyeshadow liquid, eyeshadow palette, eyeshadow cream, powder pressed, loose powder, blush cream, liquid blush, blush powder, bronzer cream, bronzer powder, liquid bronzer, highlighter cream, liquid highlighter, highlighter powder, shimmer powder, oil, primer, moisturizer, serum, lotion, cleanser, eyebrow pencil, eyebrow wax, eyebrow powder, eyebrow cream, eyebrow mascara, concealer pencil, liquid concealer, concealer cream, palette, or a compact, to name a few additional examples. 
         [0167]    With reference to  FIGS. 2-8 , a brush according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is illustrated and generally designated  100 . Brush  100  may include a brush portion  110  and a handle portion  120 , as shown. 
         [0168]    Brush portion  110  may be an applicator member configured to engage a desired surface such as skin, hair (e.g., eyelashes or eyebrows), or a display template, for example, to by adding, removing, and/or manipulating a cosmetic material. In embodiments, brush portion  110  may include a polymeric material, e.g., synthetic fiber such as acrylic or plastic, that may have a desired rigidity and capacity for absorption of other materials, for example, bristles, fibers, cloth, pledgets, or foam, to name a few. In embodiments, brush portion  110  may be formed of a different type of fiber, such as natural or organic fibers, to name a few. Brush portion  110  may be configured in accordance with a desired type of surface engagement, for example, brush portion  110  may have a desired bristle count, length, density, or absorption capacity, to name a few. In embodiments, brush portion  110  may include a different type of material, such as a wand, comb, stylus, sponge, silicone or a doe foot. In embodiments, brush portion  110  may have an axial length of between and including 25 mm and 35 mm. In other exemplary embodiments, brush portion  110  may have a shorter or longer axial length, such as the lengths shown in Table 1 below. 
         [0169]    In embodiments, brush portion  110  may be a solid color, such as black, white, pink, rose gold, brown, or a metallic color, such as gold, silver, rose gold, gun metal, or pearl, to name a few, or brush portion  110  may be multicolored. In embodiments, brush portion  110  may also include one or more visual indicators to facilitate use. For example, brush portion  110  may include a color gradient that shifts from a darker color closer to handle portion  120  to a lighter color further away from handle portion  120 . Such a visual configuration of brush portion  110  may aid a user in identifying the presence of cosmetic material on brush portion  110  during use of brush  100 . In embodiments, brush portion  110  may be visually configured to have a graduated configuration from a gray color closer to handle portion  120  (and ferrule  140 , when present) to a white color further away from handle portion  120  (and ferrule  140 , when present). In other exemplary embodiments, a color gradient of brush portion  110  may feature a graduated change of a different color or colors other than gray and/or white, such as a graduated change from a darker color closer to handle portion  120  to a lighter color further away from handle portion  120 . In embodiments, brush portion  110  may be visually configured, e.g., colored, to contrast against a cosmetic material being applied. In this regard, a user is afforded more precise control over brush  100  by being afforded a contrasting view of cosmetic material to be applied against a contrasting background. In embodiments, other types of visual indicia, for example, bands, marks, or striations, may be present on brush portion  110  to assist in fine control over engagement of brush  100  against a surface. 
         [0170]    Handle portion  120 , as shown, may include a handle  130  and a ferrule  140  interconnecting the handle  130  and brush portion  110 . In embodiments, brush  100  may be devoid of a ferrule  140 , with brush portion  110  directly affixed to handle  130 . 
         [0171]    Ferrule  140  supports brush portion  120 , and may be coupled to brush portion  120  by, for example, adhesion, crimping, clamping, interweaving, or friction fit, to name a few. In embodiments, the tightness of coupling of ferrule  140  to brush portion  110  is a function of the density of brush portion  110 . For example, a brush portion  110  having a greater number of bristles may require a greater crimp on ferrule  140  to maintain a secure engagement of brush portion  110  with ferrule  140 . In embodiments, brush portion  120  and ferrule  140  may be detachable from one another, e.g., so that replacement or alternative brush portions can be coupled with handle portion  120 . In embodiments, ferrule  140  may be detachable from handle portion  120  so that ferrule  140  and/or brush portion  110  may be replaced with respect to handle  130 . 
         [0172]    In embodiments, ferrule  140  may be configured to support a variety of brush and applicator types and configurations, for example, a powder brush, a concealer brush, a contouring brush a bronzer brush, a foundation brush, a blush brush, a Kabuki brush, a blending brush, an eye brush, a crease brush, an eye liner brush, a face brush, a defining brush, a lip brush, an eye shadow brush, a stipple brush, a smudge sponge, a brow comb, an eyelash wand, or an eyebrow wand, or one of the cosmetic applicators/implements mentioned above, to name a few. Examples of brush types and configurations can be seen in  FIGS. 9-69 . In embodiments, an applicator may have a cap (e.g., lipstick) that fits over the brush or other applicator. 
         [0173]    Ferrule  140  may be formed of a suitable material configured to support brush portion  120 , for example, a polymeric material, a composite material, and/or a metallic material, to name a few. In embodiments, ferrule  140  may be formed at least partially of a metallic material with a smooth, e.g., brushed or polished, finish. In embodiments, ferrule  140  may be formed at least partially of a non-metallic finish (e.g., a black finish). 
         [0174]    As shown, ferrule  140  may be a conic section, e.g., having a circular axial cross-section that tapers therealong, and which terminates at a point such that a side profile of the ferrule  140  is trapezoidal. In embodiments, ferrule  140  may taper such that a diameter of ferrule  140  reduces between and including a length of 26 mm and 1 mm in an axial direction. In embodiments, ferrule  140  may have an overall axial length of between and including 35 mm and 55 mm. Such a configuration may present a surface for engagement of the brush  100  by a user, for example, the thumb and index finger of a user, to facilitate fine manipulation of the brush portion  110  against a surface. In embodiments, ferrule  140  may have a different configuration, for example, a triangular, rectangular, or elliptical cross-section, and/or a different side profile, to name a few. The opening and diameter of ferrule  140  is affected by the volume of brush material of brush portion  110  to be held. In general, the greater the amount of brush material to be held, the wider the opening. Conversely, when a lesser amount of brush material is to be held, the opening of the ferrule may be tapered inwardly, as shown in  FIGS. 16-22 . 
         [0175]    Still referring to  FIGS. 2-8 , handle  130  will be described in detail. Handle  130 , as shown, may be an elongate member with a triangular cross-section. In embodiments, the triangular cross-section may have a shape of an equilateral triangle, and may include vertices that are curved or beveled to avoid sharp corners. Accordingly, handle  130  presents three separate outer surfaces and edges for engagement by a user such that fine manual control of brush  100  is afforded to the user. In this regard, handle  130  may be formed of a material that is sufficiently rigid to be directionally manipulated by a user&#39;s fingers and/or hand. In embodiments, handle  130  may be formed of one or more of, for example, a polymeric material (such as glass or plastic), a composite material, or a metallic material, to name a few. In exemplary embodiments, handle  130  may be formed of an at least partially transparent material, including a fully transparent or a translucent material. Accordingly, handle  130  may be selected from a material having a high light transmissibility, e.g., configuration to transmit a percentage of incident light therethrough, such as between 75% and 95% of incident light. In embodiments, handle  130  may be formed of a polymeric material such as glass or plastic. Such transparency of handle  130  may reduce the occurrence of shadows cast by handle  130  on a target surface and/or may allow a user to at least partially view an environment through handle  130 . In embodiments, handle  130  may be opaque and display one or more colors, such as gold, silver, rose gold, gun metal, pearl, and/or other metallic colors, or a non-metallic color such as black, grey, white, pink, rose gold, brown, to name a few. In embodiments, handle  130  may be iridescent and/or may include glitter, pearls. or other decorative features, and may include printed text or graphics. 
         [0176]    Handle  130  may have a length sufficient to afford a user with a desired grip of brush  100 . In embodiments, handle  130  may have a length between and including, for example, 90 mm and 100 mm. Such length of handle  130  may afford the user with dexterous control of brush  100 , for example, by allowing the user to tilt brush  100  using portions of handle  130  as a lever. A user is also afforded the option of grasping portions of handle  130  along its length that is most comfortable for his or her grip. In this regard, handle  130  is configured for use by a variety of users. 
         [0177]    As shown, handle  130  (or a segment thereof) may be tapered, e.g., having a cross-sectional area that decreases therealong in a direction extending away from brush portion  110 . For example, handle  130  may decrease in cross-sectional diameter and area along a range between and including 8 mm and 5 mm. (As used herein, the cross-sectional diameter of a triangular cross-section is measured from one vertex of the triangle to a midpoint on the side of the triangle opposite that vertex. An example of a cross-sectional diameter is shown, for example, by dashed line  160  in  FIG. 57C .) In embodiments, the cross-sectional diameter of handle  130  may taper at a rate of between and including 0.01 mm and 0.2 mm per unit mm (i.e., the taper is within a range of 0.01 mm and 0.2 mm per unit mm) along the length of handle  130 , or a segment thereof. In embodiments, the cross-sectional diameter of handle  130  may taper at a different rate per unit mm along the length of handle  130 . Such taper of handle  130  may provide the user with a comfortable grip of brush  100 , for example, by providing a relatively larger surface area for fine engagement, for example, by a user&#39;s fingers, and an increasingly narrower section of handle  130  that can rest comfortably on a user&#39;s wrist, palm, and/or thenar space without requiring the user to tense the muscles thereof to maintain a grip on handle  130 . 
         [0178]    Handle  130  may also include an end  132  that is blunted, e.g., having a flattened or beveled surface. Such a configuration of end  132  may facilitate the free movement of end  132  by a user without worry as to possible scratching or poking of the user or a surface engaged by brush  100 . End  132  may also be configured to support brush  100  in a standing configuration on a flat surface. In embodiments, end  132  may be configured for engagement with, for example, a storage or display implement for brush  100 . 
         [0179]    Referring to  FIGS. 9-69 , various embodiments of cosmetic brushes with handles according to the present invention are illustrated. As shown, such embodiments according to the present invention may have a variety of configurations of overall lengths, brush portion lengths, ferrule lengths, handle lengths, and tapering handle cross-sectional diameters, with examples provided in Table 1 below at least for the embodiments of  FIGS. 24A-59C . 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Tapering 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                 Ferrule  
                   
                 Cross-Sectional 
               
               
                 Corresponding 
                 Overall 
                 Brush Portion 
                 length 
                 Handle 
                 Diameter 
               
               
                 Figures 
                 Length (mm) 
                 Length (mm) 
                 (mm) 
                 Length (mm) 
                 (mm) 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 24A and 24B 
                 165-173 
                   22-25 
                 44-46 
                  96-104 
                   14-4 
               
               
                 25A and 25B 
                 164-170 
                   28-32 
                 34-36 
                  97-105 
                   19-5 
               
               
                 26A and 26B 
                 178-186 
                   30-34 
                 49-59 
                  96-104 
                   14-4 
               
               
                 27A and 27B 
                 162-170 
                    9-13 
                 39-41 
                 107-115 
                  8.5-3.5 
               
               
                 28A and 28B 
                 158-166 
                   15-19 
                 29-31 
                 111-119 
                  8.5-3 
               
               
                 29A and 29B 
                 161-169 
                    8-12 
                 39-41 
                 111-119 
                  8.5-3 
               
               
                 30A and 30B 
                 162-170 
                   14-18 
                 34-36 
                 111-119 
                  8.5-3 
               
               
                 31A-31C 
                 135-150 or 
                 15.5-18.5 or 
                 29-31 
                 104-106 or 
                   7-6 
               
               
                   
                 147-158 
                    3-8 
                   
                  73-77 
                   
               
               
                 32A and 32B 
                 171-179 
                   17-23 
                 38-42 
                 111-119 
                 10.5-3.5 
               
               
                 33A and 33B 
                 147-157 
                    9-3 
                 28-32 
                 111-119 
                   7-2.5 
               
               
                 34A-34C 
                 161-169 
                    8-12 
                 39-41 
                 111-119 
                 10.5-3.5 
               
               
                 35A and 35B 
                 148-158 
                    6-10 
                 29-31 
                 111-119 
                   7-2.5 
               
               
                 36A and 36B 
                 162-172 
                   10-34 
                 19-21 
                 120-130 
                   7-2.5 
               
               
                 37A and 37B 
                 149-157 
                    7-9 
                 29-31 
                 111-119 
                   7-2.5 
               
               
                 38A and 38B 
                 159-167 
                   12-14 
                 34-36 
                 111-119 
                  8.5-3 
               
               
                 39A and 39B 
                 162-170 
                    9-13 
                 39-41 
                 111-119 
                 10.5-3.5 
               
               
                 40A and 40B 
                 179-187 
                   36-40 
                 44-46 
                  96-104 
                   14-4 
               
               
                 41A and 41B 
                 171-177 
                   39-41 
                 34-36 
                  96-104 
                   16-5 
               
               
                 42A and 42B 
                 164-170 
                   29-33 
                 34-36 
                  96-104 
                   18-5 
               
               
                 43A and 43B 
                 169-177 
                   16-30 
                 44-46 
                  96-104 
                   14-4 
               
               
                 44A and 44B 
                 178-184 
                   28-32 
                 48-52 
                  96-104 
                   18-5 
               
               
                 45A and 45B 
                 168-176 
                   30-34 
                 38-42 
                 106-114 
                   18-5 
               
               
                 46A-46C 
                 157-163 or 
                   12-16 or 
                 44-46 
                  96-104 
                   18-5 
               
               
                   
                 156-164 
                   12-17 
                   
                   
                    
               
               
                 47A and 47B 
                 171-179 
                   28-32 
                 44-46 
                  96-104 
                   18-5 
               
               
                 48A-48C 
                  62-68 
                   43-47 
                 N/A 
                  17-23 
                   32-30 
               
               
                 49A-49C 
                 193-197 
                   44-46 
                 49-51 
                  96-104 
                   18-5 
               
               
                 50A and 50B 
                 188-194 
                   38-42 
                 49-51 
                  96-104 
                   18-5 
               
               
                 51A-51C 
                 188-196 
                   40-44 
                 49-51 
                  96-104 
                   18-5 
               
               
                 52A and 52B 
                 160-168 
                   7-11 
                 39-41 
                 111-119 
                  8.5-3 
               
               
                 53A and 53B 
                 158-167 
                  5.5-9.5 
                 39-41 
                 111-119 
                  6.5-2.5 
               
               
                 54A-54C 
                 182-200 
                   49-53 
                 44-96 
                  96-104 
                   23-7 
               
               
                 55A-55C 
                 171-179 or 
                   34-36 or 
                 39-41 
                  96-104 
                   23-7 
               
               
                   
                 165-179 
                   29-36 
                   
                   
                    
               
               
                 56A-56D 
                 172-182 
                   40-42 
                 34-36 
                  96-104 
                   29-11 
               
               
                 57A-57D 
                  85-93 or 
                   18-28 or 
                 N/A 
                  67-75 
                   21-19 or 
               
               
                   
                 100-110 
                   29-34 
                   
                   
                   20-25 
               
               
                 57E-57F 
                 100-110 
                   29-34 
                 N/A 
                  67-75 
                   20-25 
               
               
                 58A-58D 
                 166-174 
                   28-32 
                 39-42 
                  96-104 
                   14-4 
               
               
                 59A-59C 
                 167-175 
                   29-33 
                 39-41 
                  96-104 
                   14-4 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0180]      FIGS. 9-15  depict an exemplary embodiment of a cosmetic brush with handle according to the present invention. In particular,  FIGS. 9-15  illustrate, respectively, perspective, left side, right side, bottom plan, top plan, front side and rear side views of the cosmetic brush with handle in accordance with this respective embodiment. 
         [0181]      FIGS. 16-22  depict an exemplary embodiment of a cosmetic brush with handle according to the present invention. In particular,  FIGS. 16-22  illustrate, respectively, perspective, left side, right side, bottom plan, top plan, front side and rear side views of the cosmetic brush with handle in accordance with this respective embodiment. 
         [0182]      FIG. 23  depicts a non-limiting example of a set of several different cosmetic brushes with handles in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention. 
         [0183]    Various embodiments of cosmetic brushes with handles according to the present invention are further illustrated in  FIGS. 60-69 . For example,  FIG. 60  is a top view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  FIGS. 61-64  depict various perspective views of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  FIGS. 65-67  depict, respectively , front, side and bottom plan views of the cosmetic brush with handle of  FIG. 61 .  FIG. 68  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 69  is a front view of a cosmetic brush with handle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
         [0184]      FIGS. 57A to 57D  depict another exemplary embodiment of a precision cosmetic brush  150 , such as a massager, that includes a brush portion  152  connected to a handle  154 . As depicted, in embodiments, only a lower segment  156  of brush  150  has a triangular cross-section and a taper for precision control of the brush, whereas an upper segment  158  of handle  154  need not be triangular in cross-section. Instead of tapering in a direction away from a brush, lower segment  150  of handle  154  tapers in a direction extending from a lower end toward an upper end of brush  150  such that the triangular cross-section of lower segment  156  of brush  150  is larger toward the lower end of the handle  154  (away from brush) and tapers upward therefrom toward the brush portion. 
         [0185]      FIGS. 57E and 57F  illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a precision cosmetic brush  150 ′, similar to brush  150  of  FIGS. 57A to 57D , with a similar brush portion  152 ′ and a handle  154 ′ having a lower segment  156 ′ that is triangular in cross-section and an upper segment  158 ′ that need not have a triangular cross-section. Brushes  150 ,  150 ′ are generally configured to be held by the respective lower segments  156 ,  156 ′. 
         [0186]    In other exemplary embodiments (not illustrated), a handle on a cosmetic brush or applicator or a cosmetic implement, such as on a lipstick or compact, may have a triangular cross-section to facilitate precision application of cosmetic material or manipulation of a surface, but may or may not be tapered or have a tapered segment. For example, the kabuki brush of  FIG. 48  may include an alternative handle that is not tapered. 
         [0187]    While this invention has been described in conjunction with the embodiments outlined above, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the invention, as set forth above, are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Technology Classification (CPC): 0