Patent Description:
Eyelash extensions have conventionally been used to enhance the length, thickness, and fullness of natural eyelashes. Eyelash extensions, however, must be applied to an individual's natural eyelashes one by one to avoid having the eyelash extensions stick together. Consequently, lash extension services can cost hundreds of dollars depending on the type and number of lashes used, the skill of the cosmetician, and the venue where the eyelash extensions are applied. It usually takes an experienced cosmetician one to two hours to attach a full set of eyelash extensions.

Clusters of artificial lashes have conventionally been used to enhance the length, thickness, and fullness of an individual's natural eyelashes. However, each cluster must be applied to the individual's eyelashes individually in order to avoid having the clusters of artificial lashes stick together and to ensure multiple clusters are evenly distributed across the width of the individual's lash line.

Alternatively, false eyelashes may be applied directly to an individual's eyelid. False eyelashes come in strips (and thus may also be referred to as "strip lashes") that can be trimmed to fit the width of the individual's eyelid. While a strip of false eyelashes can be applied in a single motion, false eyelashes are easily distinguishable from the individual's natural eyelashes and may be uncomfortable when worn for extended periods of time.

According to its abstract, <CIT> describes a one-piece, molded tool for applying false eyelashes and comprising a deformable handle having opposed clamping portions and including an intermediate locking arrangement operable in response to handle deformation.

According to its abstract, <CIT> describes a tool for gripping an artificial eyelash that comprises co-operating clamping members located at the ends of a pair of co-operating handle portions, the clamping members being separable by relative movement of the handle portions with respect to one another. In the embodiment shown a longitudinally extending groove in the handle portion and a co-operating rib in the handle portion allow handle portions and to slide longitudinally with respect to one another. The handle portions may be pivotally attached to the clamping members thus permitting lateral rotation of the handle portions with respect to the clamping members. The clamping member has a ridge constructed from a soft resilient material extending along its lower edge. In a further embodiment the handle portions are pivotally coupled to one another so that clamping members may be opened and closed by a scissor-type action.

According to its abstract, <CIT> describes a tool for applying a false eyelash that comprises handle portions, clamping means and lock means. Preferably the tool is a one-piece plastics injection-moulding. In operation, the handle portions are moved together until male element frictionally engages female element. Abutment allows enlargements to pivot relative to each other. To release a false eyelash the handle portions are pressed so that enlargements pivot relative to each other and the tool assumes an arrangement. In a modification, the lock means comprises a male element having a recess, whilst female element has a chamfered edge to assist location of the elements together. Guide pins also help direct the elements together and chamfer permits pivoting of the enlargements.

According to its opening statement, <CIT> describes an applicator for artificial eyelashes that is particularly useful in holding artificial eyelashes during application of such eyelashes to the human eyelid.

<CIT> relates to a mascara applicator comprising a supporting handle. The handle has a base end and two free ends. The applicator has a tweezers-like shape, and an application section is provided at each of the two free ends. The eyelash cosmetic can be applied to the eyelashes by sandwiching the eye lashes between the two application sections.

Various embodiments are illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the accompanying drawings, in which like references indicate similar elements. Various objects, features, and characteristics of the present invention will become more apparent to those skilled in the art from a study of the Detailed Description in conjunction with the drawings.

The figures depict various embodiments for the purpose of illustration only. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that alternative embodiments may be employed without departing from the principles of the present invention. The claimed subject matter is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Conventional eyelash extensions (or simply "lash extensions") are individually adhered to an individual's natural eyelashes one-by-one in order to prevent the eyelash extensions from sticking together. However, because the average individual might have anywhere from thirty to eighty natural lashes per eye, the application process can take several hours to attach a full set of lash extensions.

Introduced here are cases for housing sets of artificial lash extensions that can be applied to an individual's natural lashes. Each set of artificial lash extensions can include multiple lash fusions, and each lash fusion can include multiple clusters of artificial lashes. These clusters include multiple artificial hairs made of natural materials (e.g., silk or authentic mink hair) or synthetic materials (e.g., acrylic resin, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), or synthetic mink hair made of polyester). A cluster of artificial lashes generally includes approximately <NUM> to <NUM> artificial hairs (and preferably <NUM> to <NUM> artificial hairs). While certain embodiments have been described in the context of lash fusions that include multiple clusters, those skilled in the art will recognize that a lash fusion could also include a series of individual artificial hairs that are connected to one another.

Multiple clusters of artificial lashes are often formed into bundles called "lash fusions. " The base of a lash fusion (e.g., where multiple clusters are fused together) is intended to be affixed to an individual's natural lashes. A lash fusion may be approximately <NUM>-<NUM> millimeters (mm) wide. A lash fusion could also include <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, or <NUM>-<NUM> clusters. Accordingly, a lash fusion could include <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, or <NUM>-<NUM> individual artificial hairs. A set of artificial lash extensions can then be formed by positioning multiple lash fusions next to one another in an arrangement that substantially matches the curvature of the upper tightline along the base of the eyelid.

While the multiple lash fusions included in a set of artificial lash extensions are typically not connected to one another (e.g., are not fused together using heat, an adhesive, etc.), the entire set of artificial lash extension can be applied to the underside of the individual's natural lashes in a single motion by an applicator. Thus, the multiple lash fusions in a set of artificial lash extensions may be arranged to match the curvature of an eyelid, as well as an applicator designed to facilitate fixation of the entire set of artificial lash extensions to an individual's natural lashes. A set of artificial lash extensions could include <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, or <NUM>-<NUM> lash fusions. Accordingly, a set of artificial lash extensions could include <NUM>-<NUM> individual artificial hairs.

The present invention refers to applicators for resiliently grasping the multiple lash fusions in a set of artificial lash extensions, and then simultaneously applying the multiple lash fusions along the upper tightline in a single motion. As shown in <FIG>, the upper tightline is interposed between the upper lash line and the upper waterline. An applicator includes opposed arms that are connected to one another at an inner end (also referred to as the "proximal end") that is gripped by an individual. The applicator can also include an outer end (also referred to as the "distant end" or the "distal end") having a concave (e.g., crescent) shape that is contoured to be substantially flush with the convex shape of the upper tightline. The concave shape of the applicator may also substantially complement the predefined indentations within cases that are responsible for holding sets of artificial lash extensions. Applicators are often comprised of metal (e.g., stainless steel, hardened steel, or titanium) to increase the durability and grasping precision of the opposed arms.

An adhesive may be applied to the top of each lash fusion in a set of artificial lash extensions during the manufacturing process, which enables an individual to easily apply the set of artificial lash extensions directly to the underside of the natural lashes rather than to the eyelid. Additionally or alternatively, the individual could apply an adhesive before applying the set of artificial lash extensions to the underside of the natural lashes. For example, the individual may apply an adhesive to each lash fusion before applying the set of artificial lash extensions to the natural lashes. As another example, the individual may apply an adhesive directly to the natural lashes. Thus, the adhesive could be a waterproof glue or mascara.

Brief definitions of terms, abbreviations, and phrases used throughout this application are given below.

The appearances of the phrase "in some embodiments" are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment, nor are they necessarily referring to separate or alternative embodiments that are mutually exclusive of one another.

The terms "connected," "coupled," or any variant thereof includes any connection or coupling between two or more elements, either direct or indirect. The coupling or connection between the elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. For example, two components may be coupled directly to one another or via one or more intermediary channels/components. The words "associate with," meanwhile, mean connecting or relating objects, items, etc..

<FIG> depicts clusters of artificial lashes that can be used by professional lash technicians and cosmeticians. Each cluster of artificial lashes includes multiple artificial hairs that consist of natural materials (e.g., silk or authentic mink hair) or synthetic materials (e.g., acrylic resin, PBT, or synthetic mink hair made of polyester).

Clusters of artificial lashes typically include <NUM> to <NUM> artificial hairs that are heated (e.g., as part of a holt melt process) and then secured to one another. For example, in some embodiments linear artificial hairs are heated at one end such that they begin to fuse to one another at that end, while in other embodiments linear artificial hairs are heated near a central point and folded underneath one another.

In some embodiments, some or all of the artificial hairs in a cluster may be tied to a support thread (i.e., knotted). The artificial hairs may be tied by any such means, such as a slip know that prevents horizontal spreading of the cluster.

<FIG>depict how a set of artificial lash extensions can be affixed to the underside of an individual's natural lashes. More specifically, <FIG> is a perspective view of a set of artificial lash extensions from above, while FIG. 2B is a view of the set of artificial lash extensions from below.

A set of artificial lash extensions can include multiple lash fusions that are arranged to match the curvature of the upper tightline of an eyelid. For example, multiple lash fusions may be arranged such that the inner ends (i.e., the bases) form a concave shape that substantially complements the universal tightline of nearly any human eye. In some embodiments, sets of artificial lash extensions preferably include <NUM>-<NUM> distinct clusters of artificial lashes. The number of lash fusions in each set (as well as the number of clusters in each lash fusion) may be based on the thickness of the artificial hair used, the desired style of the eyelid on which the set is intended to be affixed, the desired lash density (also referred to as the "fullness" of the individual's lashes), etc. As shown in <FIG>, the set of artificial lash extensions is aligned with the tightline rather than the lash line, and then affixed to the underside of the natural lashes. Said another way, the set of artificial lash extensions is applied directly to the underside of the natural lashes rather than to the eyelid.

An adhesive can be applied to the top of each lash fusion in the set of artificial lash extensions, which enables an individual to easily apply the entire set directly to the natural lashes. The individual responsible for applying the set of artificial lash extensions could be a person who affixes the multiple lash fusions to herself or some other person (e.g., a professional lash technician or a cosmetician). In some embodiments, the adhesive is applied when each lash fusion and/or the set of artificial lash extensions are initially manufactured. Additionally or alternatively, the individual could apply an adhesive before attaching the set of artificial lash extensions to the natural lashes.

The adhesive could be a waterproof (semi-permanent) glue, mascara, or some other co-polymer solution having an adhesive quality. Although latex-based adhesives are generally avoided to avoid irritation of the individual's eyelid (e.g., due to an allergic reaction), adhesives can include various other natural and/or chemical ingredients. Examples of possible adhesives include:.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that many other adhesive compositions are possible and, in fact, may be desirable for individuals having certain allergies, desiring certain fixation duration (also referred to as "permanency" of the lash extensions), etc..

Semi-permanent clusters of lash extensions may be applied with a Federal Drug Administration-approved (FDA-approved) adhesive that achieves a strong bond. Such adhesives generally include cyanoacrylate. Different types of cyanoacrylates (e.g., ethyl, methyl, propyl, butyl, and octyl) have been designed for bonding to different surfaces. For example, adhesives made from methyl-<NUM>-cyanoacrylateare are designed to bond a smooth surface (e.g., the lash extension) to a porous surface (e.g., the natural eyelash), but not on the skin as it may cause irritation.

<FIG>depict several different views of a case <NUM> for holding artificial lash extensions. <FIG> is a perspective view of the case <NUM>, while <FIG> is an exploded view of the case <NUM> in which the upper cover <NUM> has been removed to expose multiple predefined indentations <NUM> within a base assembly <NUM>.

The case <NUM> may include a base assembly <NUM> and an upper cover <NUM> that partially or entirely shields the predefined indentations <NUM>. In some embodiments, the base assembly <NUM> includes one or more fastener holes <NUM> that allow fasteners to be used to attach the upper cover <NUM> to the base assembly <NUM>. One example of a fastener is a fastener boss <NUM>. Other embodiments may provide other means of attachment, such as hidden snaps, latches, detents, ridges, magnets, etc..

The base assembly <NUM> and/or the upper cover <NUM> may be partially or entirely composed of metal, plastic, or some other material (e.g., foam). For example, in some embodiments the base assembly <NUM> includes a die case metal body (e.g., for strength and durability) having a smooth powder coating (e.g., for aesthetics and improved cleanability), while in other embodiments the base assembly <NUM> includes a recyclable (i.e., disposable) plastic body that is not intended for significant durations of use (e.g., months or years). Those skilled in the art will recognize that any suitable material may be used. For example, in some embodiments plastic may be desirable because it is recyclable and resistant to the adhesives typically applied to lash fusions before fixation to an individual's natural lashes.

Moreover, the outer surfaces of the base assembly <NUM> and/or the upper cover <NUM> may be substantially smooth and continuous. Thus, the outer surfaces of these components may be substantially free of any gaps, ridges, or fasteners that would make cleaning difficult or that may inadvertently capture artificial lashes.

<FIG> illustrates how multiple lash fusions in a set of artificial lash extensions can be positioned within the case <NUM> in a specified arrangement. While the multiple lash fusions in the set of artificial lash extensions will typically not be connected to one another, the multiple lash fusions can be arranged such that the set as a whole substantially complements the shape of an eyelid. More specifically, the curvature of the multiple lash fusions may substantially match the tightline curvature of an average person. Thus, an entire set of artificial lash extensions may become substantially flush with the lash line when the set is arranged proximate to the tightline.

The predefined indentations <NUM> allow the lash fusions to be positioned in a specific arrangement. For example, the curvature of the outer surface of the case <NUM> may cause the lash fusions to be arranged in the shape of an eyelid (i.e., the outer surface of the case <NUM> may mimic the natural lash line). Together, the multiple lash fusions form a set of artificial lash extensions that can be collectively applied in a single motion.

<FIG>depict an applicator <NUM> that can be used to simultaneously apply an entire set of artificial lash extensions to an individual's natural lashes. <FIG> is a perspective view of an applicator <NUM> having two opposed arms, and <FIG> is a side view depicting the curvature of the applicator <NUM>.

The applicator <NUM> includes opposed arms 502a-b that are connected to one another at an inner end (also referred to as a "proximal end"). Each of the opposed arms 502a-b include an inner portion <NUM> that is gripped by an individual and an outer portion <NUM> that is contoured to resiliently grasp multiple lash fusions. The outer portion <NUM> has a concave (e.g., crescent) shape <NUM> that enables the applicator <NUM> to become substantially flush with the housing of a case (e.g., case <NUM> of <FIG>and the tightline of an eye. This non-linear shape enables the individual to readily grasp and apply an entire set of artificial lash extensions without requiring assistance from another individual (e.g., a medical professional or cosmetician).

The middle portion <NUM> (also referred to as the "bridge) of the applicator <NUM> includes another concave shape <NUM> (also referred to as a "hump") that allows the applicator <NUM> to rest on the individual's cheek bone, nose bridge, etc. For example, if the individual is holding the applicator <NUM> in their right hand, then the individual can readily apply a set of artificial lash extensions to the right eye. However, when the individual attempts to apply a set of artificial lash extensions to the left eye, the individual may to balance the hump <NUM> on the bridge of the nose for stabilization. During the application process, the individual may grasp the inner portion <NUM> and/or the middle portion <NUM>.

The applicator <NUM> can be composed of metal, plastic, or any other suitable material. Metal alloys (e.g., stainless steel) are typically preferred because they provide greater durability and allow the applicator <NUM> to have high precision. The term "precision" refers to the size of objects that can be grasped by the applicator <NUM>. Highly precise grasping tools (e.g., tweezers) can grab very small objects. In order to have high precision, the opposed arms 502a-b must be precisely aligned and balanced so that an individual can grasp individual artificial lashes.

The outer portions <NUM> of the opposed arms 502a-b are arranged to engage one another when the inner portions <NUM> of the opposed arms 502a-b are pressed toward one another by an individual. Such action causes pressure to be applied to the exterior surface of the inner portions <NUM> and/or the middle portions <NUM> of the opposed arms 502a-b. <FIG> depicts how the arrangement of a set of artificial lash extensions enables all of the lash fusions to be simultaneously grasped by an applicator. More specifically, an individual or a healthcare professional, such as a lash technician or cosmetician, can grasp an entire set of artificial lash extensions using the applicator, and then simultaneously apply the entire set of artificial lash extensions to the individual's natural lashes in a single motion.

<FIG> depicts how the concave shape of an applicator can substantially complement the convex shape of a case. The concave shape of the applicator enables an individual to simultaneously grasp all of the lash fusions in a set of artificial lash extensions housed within the case. After grasping the set of artificial lash extensions, the individual can apply the entire set of artificial lash extensions to the natural lashes in a single motion.

The individual may also exploit the concave shape of the applicator to apply pressure to the multiple lash fusions to ensure that each lash fusion is securely attached to the natural lashes. For example, after applying the set of artificial lash extensions to the underside of the natural lashes, the individual can apply pressure another time to clamp down on the natural lashes and the artificial lash extensions. While the second application of pressure may not be necessarily, the individual may perform such action to ensure adherence of the lash fusions to the natural lashes.

In some embodiments, one or both of the opposed arms include a knurl at the outer end that can be used to aid in grasping. However, the knurl(s) must be offset from one another so that the outer portions of the opposed arms can be pressed against one another. Embodiments may also include a ridge that extends around some or all of the periphery of each opposed arm.

Although the term "individual" is generally used to refer to a person who applies sets of lash extensions to herself, those skilled in the art will recognize the technology described herein can also be used by healthcare professionals, cosmeticians, etc..

<FIG> depicts a flow diagram of a process <NUM> for applying a set of artificial lash extensions to an individual's natural lashes. Multiple lash fusions are initially placed within a case to form a set of artificial lash extensions (step <NUM>). As noted above, the multiple fusions may be positioned in a specific arrangement. For example, the case may include predefined indentations that cause the multiple lash fusions to be arranged in a convex pattern similar to the shape of an eyelid.

The individual can then arrange an applicator over the case that includes the set of artificial lash extensions (step <NUM>). The applicator includes opposed arms having concave outer portions that substantially complement the convex pattern of lash fusions included in the set, as well as the convex outer surface of the case. The individual can then apply pressure to the opposed arms of the applicator to securely grasp the multiple lash fusions (step <NUM>). Application of such pressure causes the outer portions of the opposed arms to engage one another and grasp each lash fusion included in the set.

The individual arranges the multiple lash fusions proximate to the tightline (step <NUM>), and then attaches the multiple lash fusions to the natural lashes (step <NUM>) by pressing the multiple lash fusions upward against the bottom of the natural eyelashes. Thus, the set of lash fusions may become substantially flush with the lash line. The initial application process can then be completed by discontinuing the pressure applied to the opposed arms of the applicator (step <NUM>). In some embodiments, the individual may further secure the multiple lash fusions to the natural lashes by once again applying pressure to the opposed arms of the application (step <NUM>), which causes the outer portions of the opposed arms to clamp down on the multiple lash fusions and the natural lashes.

Unless contrary to physical possibility, it is envisioned that the steps described above may be performed in various sequences and combinations. For instance, the case may already include the multiple lash fusions before coming into the possession of the individual (thus rendering step <NUM> unnecessary in some embodiments).

Other steps could also be included in some embodiments. For example, an adhesive may be applied to the top of each lash fusion in the set of artificial lash extensions. In other embodiments, ad adhesive is applied to the top of each lash fusion in the set of artificial lash extensions during the manufacturing process. The adhesive could be a waterproof glue or mascara. For example, the adhesive may include an oil-soluble polymer that helps to enhance adhesion and substantivity of the artificial lash extensions to the individual's natural lashes. The adhesive may be a waterproof formulation that allows the set of artificial lash extensions to remain affixed to the individual's natural lashes for longer periods of time.

Although latex-based adhesives are generally avoided to avoid irritation of the individual's eyelid (e.g., due to an allergic reaction), adhesives can include various other natural ingredients (e.g., sugar or honey) and/or chemical ingredients. For example, copolymer is often a main ingredient in many adhesive formulations. The adhesive could be a commercially-available adhesive for conventional lash extensions or a specialized composition for use with the set of lash extensions described herein. The adhesive could be clear or colored (e.g., milky white or black to emulate mascara).

<FIG> depicts a flow diagram for a process <NUM> for manufacturing applicators for applying artificial lash extensions. A pair of metal fragments are initially acquired that are to be formed into an applicator for applying artificial lash extensions (step <NUM>). Generally, the metal fragments is comprised of a metal for improved durability, cleanability, etc. Examples of metals include titanium, hardened steel, stainless steel, etc..

Other materials may also be used to form the applicator. For example, the pair of fragments may be comprised of plastic, glass, foam, etc. Moreover, the applicator may be formed from a single piece of material rather than a pair of separate fragments. In such embodiments, the single piece of material can be formed into a v-shaped body having opposed arms and an apex (e.g., through the application of heat to a central point at which the single piece of material is folded).

Each metal fragment can be logically divided into an inner portion designed to be gripped by an individual and an outer portion designed to grasp a set of artificial lash extensions (step <NUM>). For example, the outer portion of each metal fragment may be wide enough to simultaneously grasp <NUM>-<NUM> clusters of artificial lashes. In some embodiments, the metal fragments may be slightly thinner at the proximal end (also referred to as the "gripping end") in order to provide greater flexibility.

The outer portion of each metal fragment is then formed into a concave shape that may substantially match the tightline curvature of an eyelid (step <NUM>). Said another way, the outer portion of each metal fragment may be contoured to match the curvature of the tightline of an eyelid. This can be accomplished, for example, using appropriately shaped die blocks and machine molding. Such a design enables an individual to simultaneously grasp and apply multiple lash fusions without requiring assistance from another individual (e.g., a medical professional or cosmetician).

In some embodiments, a middle portion of each metal fragment is also formed into a concave shape that allows the applicator to rest on the cheek bone, nose bridge, etc. For example, if an individual is holding the applicator in their right hand, then the individual can readily apply a set of artificial lash extensions to the right eye. However, when the individual attempts to apply a set of artificial lash extensions to the left eye, the individual may to balance the middle portion on the bridge of the nose for stabilization.

The pair of metal fragments can then be fixedly secured to one another at the proximal end to form opposed arms having an apex (step <NUM>). For example, an individual may use an induction welder to fuse the pair of metal fragments together at the proximal end. This arrangement of the opposed arms allows an individual to securely grasp lash fusion(s) by applying pressure to the opposed arms. Forming the applicator in such a manner also ensures that the opposed arms naturally revert or "spring" back to their original position when pressure is no longer being applied by the individual.

Claim 1:
An applicator (<NUM>) comprising:
opposed arms (502a, 502b) that are connected to one another at a proximal end,
wherein each opposed arm includes:
an inner portion (<NUM>) configured to be gripped by a user; and
an outer portion (<NUM>) having a concave shape formed between a first end and a second end of the outer portion, the first end being nearer the proximal end and the second end being further from the proximal end, the concave shape configured to become substantially flush with a convex shape of a tightline of an eyelid,
where the outer portions of the opposed arms are arranged to engage one another when the opposed arms are pressed toward one another by the user for grasping one or more lash fusions;
wherein the applicator comprises a middle portion (<NUM>) between the inner portion (<NUM>) and the outer portion (<NUM>) including another concave shape (<NUM>).