Patent ID: 12239205

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Many cosmetic compositions, including pigmented cosmetics such as foundations and lipsticks, have been formulated in an attempt to possess longwearing properties upon application. Unfortunately, many of these compositions do not generally possess both good long-wear/transfer-resistance properties as well as good application properties, good comfort properties and/or good appearance properties (for example, shine, gloss or matte properties).

For example, with respect to lip products, commercial products containing silicon resins such as MQ resins are known. Such products are known to provide good long wear properties and/or transfer-resistance. However, such products possess poor application properties, poor feel upon application (for example, feel rough) and poor shine or gloss properties owing to the film formed by the MQ resin (for example, a matte appearance). Therefore, a second composition (topcoat) is separately applied to such products to improve poor properties of the compositions to make the products acceptable to consumers. Furthermore, the topcoat composition must be reapplied continually so that the product remains acceptable to consumers, meaning that the products are effectively not “long-wearing” as they require constant maintenance and reapplication.

Also, with respect to foundations, such products can provide good long wear properties and/or transfer-resistance. However, such long-wearing/transfer-resistant products can possess poor application and/or feel upon properties application, as well as poor matte properties.

“Single step” multi-phase cosmetic compositions having improved cosmetic properties, particularly good wear, feel, shine, gloss and/or matte characteristics upon application are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/144,716, entitled “Lip Compositions,” filed on May 2, 2016, with the inventor Rita El-Khouri, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/144,622, entitled “Liquid Lipstick Compositions Capable of Forming a Multilayer Structure After Application to Lips,” filed on May 2, 2016, with the inventor Rita El-Khouri, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/144,698 entitled “Lip Compositions Capable of Forming a Multilayer Structure After Application to Lips,” filed on May 2, 2016, with the inventor Rita El-Khouri, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/316,309, entitled “Cosmetic Compositions Capable of Forming a Multilayer Structure After Application to a Keratinous Material,” filed on Mar. 31, 2016, with the inventor Rita El-Khouri, and Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) Application No. PCT/US2017/025370, titled “Cosmetic Compositions Capable of Forming a Multilayer Structure After Application to Keratinous Material,” filed on Mar. 31, 2017, with the inventor Rita El-Khouri, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

The above-referenced applications disclose, for example, a multi-phase cosmetic composition for keratinous materials (for example, skin, hair, eyelashes, nails, or lips) which has good cosmetic properties such as, for example, good adhesion, transfer-resistance, feel, gloss (or shine), and/or matte upon application, and which can be applied to a keratinous material without having to engage in a multi-step application process. More specifically, the above-referenced applications disclose multi-phase cosmetic compositions that comprise at least two immiscible components prior to application and that are capable of forming a multilayer structure after application to a keratinous material. Such multi-phase cosmetic compositions allow for benefits associated with multi-layer cosmetic products without having to engage in a multi-step application process.

Immiscibility of the immiscible components can result from an incompatibility between the two components when the composition is at rest, an incompatibility between the two components after application to a keratinous material, or both. When the immiscible components result from an incompatibility between the two components when the composition is at rest, i.e., in a cosmetic container, the immiscible components must be appropriately mixed prior to application of the multi-phase cosmetic composition to the keratinous material. Once appropriately mixed, the multi-phase cosmetic composition comprising the temporarily miscible components can be applied to the keratinous material. After application to the keratinous material, the components separate to form a multilayer structure on the keratinous material.

In an aspect, technologies and methodologies include a mixing pack that can be used for mixing a multi-phase cosmetic composition so that the immiscible components are temporarily miscible. For purposes of this detailed description, the term “mixing” (or like versions, such as “mixer”, “mix”, or “mixed”) shall be interpreted to include any suitable mixing, blending, churning, emulsifying, etc., of a multi-phase cosmetic composition so that the immiscible components are temporarily miscible.

A package system for multi-phase cosmetic that requires mixing or re-mixing before application is provided. The subject mix pack enables a user experience which allows consumers to pre-mix a multi-phase formulation, prior to application to deliver maximum performance of the multi-phase formulation. Multi-phase cosmetics contemplated include for non-limiting example, long wear shine lip gloss and lip stick that utilize phase separated film formers providing adhesion and transfer resistant wear of color. However, phase separation requires mixing prior to use to ensure even application of both phases. During application mixing is achieved through use of the mixing pack, and the mixed composition can be applied to the lip surface for even distribution. Once on the lip surface, the composition re-undergoes phase separation on the lip, for example providing long wear color that adheres to the lip surface such as via silicon film formers, with a sealing gloss formed from oil phase.

In a first embodiment, a mechanical stirring assembly is provided which rotates and mixes, stirs, and agitates formula to generate a more homogenized state. This enables a high-performance formula to be delivered, one that has performance level because of its instability which requires mixing into a homogeneous state before applying. Current package solution is heavy, higher material cost, and more challenging to environmental standards/goals. The subject mixing pack engages the consumer to be a part of the product experience, and may include cues like a haptic, sound, that conveys the functionality of the mixing pack. Various mix positions may be provided that allows for an end cap assembly to engage a specified location or mix position.

Turning now toFIGS.1-6, there is shown a first exemplary embodiment of a mixing pack10suitable for mixing a multi-phase cosmetic composition (not shown) so that the immiscible components are temporarily miscible. The mixing pack10generally includes a container11for holding a multi-phase cosmetic composition, a mixing element28for mixing the multi-phase cosmetic composition, and an applicator60for applying the temporarily miscible components of the multi-phase cosmetic composition to a keratinous material.

Container11may be any suitable shape, size, configuration, material, etc., to appropriately hold a desired multi-phase cosmetic composition. In the depicted embodiment, the container11includes a substantially cylinder glass or plastic container body12, having a first end13having a rim14surrounding an opening15forming a top of container11and a second end16that is enclosed to form the bottom of container11. The first end13, or top of the container11, opening15is attached, either removably or fixedly, to an end cap assembly50that may be press-fit or otherwise secured to or within opening15of the first end13of container11in any suitable manner.

In the subject embodiment, the second (or bottom) end16is enclosed, and the first (or top) end13is attached, removably or fixed, to the end cap assembly50at rim14. End cap assembly50encloses and seals opening15of first end13of the container body12and provides an interface between the applicator60and the interior of the container11.

End cap assembly50includes a bottle shoulder51having a shoulder collar53which in turn is attached to a secondary shoulder collar54, in a stacked cylindrical arrangement with an aligned central opening58for pass through of applicator60. Bottle shoulder51includes an internal shoulder tract52that receives rim14of first end13of bottle11for connection to bottle11(preferably fixedly, but alternatively removably). Shoulder collar53includes external threads, grooves, or snap fittings for attachment to applicator top61(applicator cap).

In an embodiment, an inner cap65having a rotating inner stem/drive shaft66and O-ring seal65′ surrounding an inner cap opening for pass-through of the applicator60is received on secondary shoulder collar54. At least a portion of inner cap65is secured within bottle shoulder51and includes rotating inner stem/drive shaft66that forms a channel67with secondary shoulder collar54that provides attachment to collar29of mixing element28. The inner cap65and shoulder51may be formed as a unilateral, single unit. Rotating inner stem/drive shaft66includes grooves or tracts that receive mating grooves or tracks of a drive collar70so that as drive collar70is rotated, rotating inner stem/drive shaft66rotates in unison, in turn rotating mixing element28.

Drive collar70is formed having a drive stem71that includes the mating grooves or tracts, and a drive turn72that is adapted to securely fit within applicator top/cap61for rotation after the applicator top/cap61is unscrewed or unconnected from shoulder collar53and manually rotated by a user to rotate cap61, drive turner72, drive shaft66and mixing element28. Alternatively, cap61may be removed and the user may grasp drive turn72directly to manually rotate the mixing element28to mix the phase-separated liquid or solution within bottle11. As a result, mixing element28is limited to rotational movement along a central axis x-x. Drive collar70may be part of mixing element, and/or cap assembly formed or as separate assembled elements.

In that regard, the end cap assembly50includes central opening58extending from a top surface to a bottom surface of the first end cap assembly50and rotating inner stem/drive shaft66and drive collar70. The central opening58is sized to allow the applicator60to pass there through, which in the depicted embodiment includes a stem62and applicator portion or tip64defined at the distal end thereof. The stem62may pass through the central opening58and extend into the container body12to position the tip64within the interior of the container body12for withdrawing the multi-phase cosmetic composition for application to a keratinous material. The end cap assembly50may include an internal wiping assembly/wiper63that helps wipe excess cosmetic composition from the applicator tip64as it is removed from the container body12. Any suitable internal wiping assembly for the intended application may be used.

The stem62of the applicator60extends from an interior portion of a cap/applicator top61that is removably securable to the shoulder collar53on the container11for sealing and enclosing the cosmetic composition therein. The cap/applicator top61may be removably secured to the top end of the container body12in any suitable manner, such as by threading, a snap-fit, friction fit, or otherwise.

It should be appreciated that the container11may instead be comprised of a container body that is integrally formed with the end cap assembly50. Moreover, the container body12and the end cap assembly50may be formed from any suitable material in any suitable manner. For instance, the container body12and end cap assembly50may be integrally or separately formed by injection molding. In an embodiment, the container body12is molded to molded to have a plug in the bottom end. Furthermore, any other suitable container body12, cap/applicator top61and applicator60may be used for the desired application. For instance, the container may be configured to suit the intended use, for example, lip gloss, foundation, concealer, lacquer, etc.

An exemplary mixing element28suitable for mixing the multi-phase cosmetic composition contained within the container11will now be described. In the embodiment depicted inFIGS.1-6, the mixing element28is embodied as having a plurality of mixing blades or paddles made from a suitable material that is inert in the multi-phase composition. In an embodiments, mixing element28comprise flexibilities ranging from very rigid to flexible enough to bend over Cams/ribbons but rigid enough/material memory enough to snap back into position with enough vigor as to cause shock to additionally agitate and mix composition.

Mixing element28is constructed having a collar29having one or more mixing blades, herein shown as a plurality of mixing blades30a,30b,30c,30d, extending longitudinally therefrom. Collar29is formed as a cylindrical ring or band having a diameter x. Preferably, collar29extends toward a minor collar29′ having a smaller diameter, diameter mc that is ≤than diameter x of collar29. Preferably, diameter mc is <than diameter x so that minor collar29′ is diametrically in-set from collar29.

Collar29provides a larger diameter x “mix axis” that allows great accessibility for all user types and mixing elements. Additionally, a differential gear in the inner cap may be provided that would allow for specifying revolutions per turn/ratios for optimal mixing rate to formula. Visually, the consumer can see the formula transform into a homogeneous uniform formula from a separated two-part formula, through a clear pack, also seeing the mixing paddles, and application of the formula. Due to the modularity, the mixing element blades or paddles, readily incorporate coatings, and material attributes (hydrophilic/hydrophobic) into the mixture for application.

The stem62and tip64of the applicator60may extend through the collar29and minor collar29′ and centrally into the mixing element28positioned within the container11such that the mixing element28at least partially surrounds the applicator stem62and tip64. The mixing element28is appointed to move rotate axially along the side walls of the body12of container11, rotating axially along center line X-X. Mixing blades30a,30b,30c,30dare herein shown as four blades, but notably mixing blades may be 30n+1, and may include for example 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, and/20 mixing blades. Mixing blades30a-30dare formed as elongated blades having a proximal end37a-37d, extending to a blade body38a-38d, in turn extending to a distal end39a-39d, face walls40a-40dand shallow substantially perpendicular side walls41a-41d. Proximal end37a-37dof mixing blades30a-30dmay be attached to, and, extending vertically or longitudinally from a rim32of collar29and from side wall33of minor collar29′, as shown, abutting along a portion of side walls41a-41dso that face walls40a-40dare substantially perpendicular to collar29and minor collar29′. Mixing blades30a-30dare preferably spaced equal distance from one another along collar29and minor collar29′ attached at proximal end37a-37d.

Distal end39of mixing blades30a-30dpreferably terminate at base plate34, attached thereto. Base plate34is adapted to be proximal to bottom or second end16of container11, above and not contacting bottom or second end16of container11to leave a gap34′ there between for liquid flow. Base plate34may include one or more cams or projections37for upward force, preferably molded on second end16in the interior of bottle11, projecting upwardly into gap34′ space for providing enhanced turbulence. Cams or projections37make sliding contact with the bottom of base plate34while mixing element28is rotating to impart reciprocal or variable motion to mixing element28and sound or haptics and/or clicking. Reciprocal or variable motion results as the mixing element28rapidly slides or strikes the one or more cams or projections37causing the rotational movement of the mixing element28to simultaneously bump or bounce upward, causing turbulence. Bottom wall16of container11may have the cams, ridges or projections37integrated or molded therein, or alternatively a thin bottom mix plate with one or more upward extending cams, ridges or projections (not shown) may be fixedly mounted on second end16of container11for providing enhanced turbulence and undercurrent mixing in gap34′ space, as well as haptic sensory to the user, including for force and/or clicking sound. Cams or projections37act to push the blades up and down during rotation or disrupt the rotation for abrupt movement along the rotational path. Alternatively, instead of pushing the blades up it causes deformation of the blades, and haptic or snapping sound. Agitation may be controlled by flexibility of mixing blade material. For example, the mixing blades may be formed of a more rigid material, or more flexible material yet sufficient to sear the multi-phase composition, and/or a combination of materials, bi-injected materials, formed by methods including, for example bi-injection molding. A bottom center point projection34″ may be provided at the bottom center point under base plate34of the mixing element28, which in turn contacts and rests within a mating divot on bottom/second end13of container11to provide rotational stabilization.

Proximal end37a-37d, blade body38a-38dand distal end39a-39dpreferably have varying widths. Preferably, mixing blades30a-30dare alternately arranged with mixing blades30a,30chaving proximal end37a,37cwith a wider width than the distal end39a,39c, gradually lessoning through blade body38a,38c. Alternatingly, mixing blades30b,30dproximal end37b,37dwidth less than the distal end39b,39d, so that the width from the proximal end37b,37dgradually widens through the blade body38b,38dextending toward the wider distal end39b,39d. In this alternating blade width arrangement, the mixing blades30a,30cpropel against the liquid mixed by mixing blades30b,30dcausing enhanced mixing. Blade body38a-38dwidth may be >than both proximal and distal ends37a-d,39a-dto form a wider surface area along the blade body38a-38dfor wiping near the side walls of container11. Alternatively, the one or more mixing blades may have, alone or in conjunction with alternating widths, alternating blade angles extending along the one or more mixing blades. In this manner, shallow side walls41a-41dmay be angled in relation to the central axis.

The container11is suitably sized and shaped to enclose the mixing element28(or the mixing element28is sized to fit within the container11) such that when the mixing element28is actuated (i.e., rotated), the multi-phase cosmetic composition contained within the container11is appropriately mixed. In that regard, the mixing element28has a length that generally extends along a portion of the length of the container body12, such as three-quarters (¾) of the container body length. In that manner, the mixing element28may rotate along the central axis of the bottle/container11moving the multi-phase cosmetic in layer motions setting in motion other adjacent layers to turn and move the liquid to form a mixture for direct application onto the keratinous surface, which composition then separates back out on the surface to provide in depth/layered cosmetic application.

Owing to the alternating angles of the propeller blades, the formula oscillates in a parabolic pattern, not only radially, as shown by way of formula oscillation through propeller or blades as shown at28′. The immiscible components flow around the mixing blades of the mixing element and flows against the walls of the body12of container11, flowing through and centrifugally against the blades, body12and moving and folding and oscillating adjacent layers. In that regard, suitable paddle, or blade geometry, including elongated paddles, helical geometries are contemplated to be used for the intended application. For instance, a low viscosity multi-phase cosmetic composition may be sufficiently mixed with a blade geometry having thinner blades, but more in number, and/or a helix having lower pitch helix design, wherein a higher viscosity multi-phase cosmetic composition may require a blade geometry having wider blades, and/or a helix geometry having a higher pitch helix design to sufficiently mix the immiscible components.

It can be appreciated that the rotational mixing element configuration will be dependent on the intended application of the mixing pack. Accordingly, the descriptions and illustrations provided herein should not be seen as limiting. Additional vertical movement may further be provided with notching and cam arrangement of the mixing blades (as shown inFIGS.7A-7F). Alternating notches move the formula vertically, in addition to rotational movement of the mixing blades. Furthermore, the bottle may be held at an angle, approximately 45 degrees, when engaging the mixing element to further enhance mixing of the multi-phase composition.

Referring toFIG.5, in an embodiment, a multi-phase cosmetic composition container comprises a mechanical blender including a plurality of mixing elements28disposed about an applicator received within a container reservoir that is at least partially filled with a multi-phase cosmetic composition. In an embodiment, the multi-phase cosmetic composition container includes a torque component operably coupled to the mechanical blender, the torque component including a rotational end cap assembly that affixes to the multi-phase cosmetic composition container and engages the mechanical blender so as to rotate or oscillate the plurality of mixing elements responsive to an applied a rotational force. In an embodiment, the multi-phase cosmetic composition container includes the torque component is configured to rotate the mixing element along a central axis for a duration and rate sufficient to mix immiscible components of a multi-phase cosmetic composition such that they are temporarily miscible, elements responsive to an applied a rotational force, without contacting the application portion of the applicator received within a container reservoir. In an embodiment, the plurality of mixing elements28comprises a plurality of blades, each blade having a cross-section having a regular or irregular geometric shape. In an embodiment, each of the plurality of mixing elements28comprises a unique cross-section. In an embodiment, each of the plurality of mixing elements comprises a ribbon or helical structure.

In an embodiment, a multi-phase cosmetic composition container includes a mechanical blender including a plurality of mixing elements disposed about an applicator received within a container reservoir that is at least partially filled with a multi-phase cosmetic composition. In an embodiment, the torque component is operably coupled to the mechanical blender. In an embodiment, the torque component includes a rotational end cap assembly that affixes to the multi-phase cosmetic composition container and engages the mechanical blender so as to rotate or oscillate the plurality of mixing elements responsive to an applied a rotational force.

In an embodiment, the torque component is configured to rotate the mixing element along a central axis for a duration and rate sufficient to mix immiscible components of a multi-phase cosmetic composition such that they are temporarily miscible, elements responsive to an applied a rotational force, without contacting the application portion of the applicator received within a container reservoir.

In an embodiment, the plurality of mixing elements comprises a plurality of blades, each blade having a cross-section having a regular or irregular geometric shape. In an embodiment, each of the plurality of mixing elements comprises a unique cross-section. In an embodiment, each of the plurality of mixing elements comprises a ribbon or helical structure.

In an embodiment, the torque component comprises a planetary gear assembly. In an embodiment, the planetary gear assembly includes at least a sun gear, a plurality of planet gears, and a ring gear. In an embodiment, one or more of the plurality of planet gears is coupled to a mixing element and configured to rotate the mixing element in the presence of an applied force. In an embodiment, each of the plurality of mixing elements independently spins about respective longitudinal axis. In an embodiment, the sun gear is coupled to the applicator and configured to transmits torque to the planet gears in the presence of an applied force.

In an embodiment, the planetary gear assembly forms part of the end cap assembly50and is driven by drive collar70. In an embodiment, the planetary gear assembly is operably coupled the applicator stem62and driven by a rotation motion of the applicator stem. In an embodiment, the planetary gear assembly is operably coupled the applicator stem62via an interlocking geometry coupling.

In one embodiment, the torque component comprises a planetary gear assembly operably coupled to the mechanical blender and configured to rotate each of the plurality of mixing elements in the presence of an applied force.

In an embodiment, the sun gear is located at the center and transmits torque to the planet gears which are typically mounted on a moveable carrier

In an embodiment, during operation the planet gears orbit around the sun gear and mesh with an outer ring gear.

FIGS.7A-7Fillustrate various alternative exemplary embodiments of a mixing element128,228,328,428,528and628suitable for mixing a multi-phase cosmetic composition contained within the container11or any other suitable container. Each mixing element128,228,328,428,528and628is made from a suitable material, such as metal, and is of a suitable length and nominal diameter for mixing a multi-phase cosmetic composition in a desired container. Moreover, the characteristics of each mixing element128,228,328,428,528and628are clearly shown inFIGS.7A-7F, respectively, accordingly, the characteristics of each mixing element will be only briefly described.

Referring toFIG.7A, the mixing element128is formed having a collar129with single mixing blade130extending longitudinally therefrom. Collar129is formed as a cylindrical ring or band and is appointed for attachment in the assembly discussed hereinabove, with rotational end cap assembly150. Mixing blade130is formed as an elongated straight blade having a proximal end137, blade body138and distal end139, face walls140and shallow substantially perpendicular side walls141. Proximal end137is attached along a portion of perpendicular side walls141and extends vertically or longitudinally from collar129with face walls140being substantially perpendicular to collar129. Distal end139terminates at base plate134adapted to be above and proximal to bottom116of container111.

FIG.7Billustrates a dual straight paddle configuration. In this embodiment the mixing element228is formed having a collar229with dual mixing blades230extending longitudinally therefrom. Collar229is formed as a cylindrical ring or band and is appointed for attachment in the assembly discussed hereinabove, with rotational end cap assembly250. Mixing blades230are formed as elongated straight blades arranged as discussed hereinabove, terminating at base plate234.

FIG.7Cillustrates a dual prop paddle. In this embodiment the mixing element328is formed having a collar329with dual mixing blades330extending longitudinally therefrom. Collar329is formed as a cylindrical ring or band and is appointed for attachment in the assembly discussed hereinabove, with rotational end cap assembly350. Mixing blades330are formed as elongated angled blades with alternating angles/blade widths, terminating at base plate334. Mixing blades330have a proximal end337, blade body338and distal end339, face walls340and shallow substantially perpendicular side walls341. Angled/alternating blade widths with proximal end337being wider on one blade330, followed by distal end339being wider on the other blade330providing for oscillating and circular motion of the liquid.

FIG.7Dillustrates a dual notched straight paddle. Mixing element428is formed having a collar429with dual mixing blades430extending longitudinally therefrom. Collar429is formed as a cylindrical ring or band and is appointed for attachment in the assembly discussed hereinabove, with rotational end cap assembly450. Mixing blades430are formed as elongated straight blades with one or more notches430′, terminating at base plate434. Owing to the dual blades430and notches430′ the liquid is moved in a spiral rotational pattern during mixing.

FIG.7Eillustrates a quad (3) prop paddle. Mixing element528is formed having a collar529with three/quad mixing blades530extending longitudinally therefrom. Collar529is formed as a cylindrical ring or band and is appointed for attachment in the assembly discussed hereinabove, with rotational end cap assembly550. Mixing blades530are formed as elongated angled blades with alternating angles/blade widths (alternating proximal/distal end configuration as discussed hereinabove, such as inFIG.1andFIG.7D), terminating at base plate534. Owing to the triple alternating blade width/angles (side wall angles) of blades530the liquid is moved in a circular rotational with oscillation pattern during mixing.

FIG.7Fillustrates a quad notched paddle with cam. Mixing element628is formed having a collar629with three/quad mixing blades630extending longitudinally therefrom. Collar629is formed as a cylindrical ring or band and is appointed for attachment in the assembly discussed hereinabove, with rotational end cap assembly650. Mixing blades630are formed as elongated angled blades with alternating angles/blade widths (alternating proximal/distal end configuration as discussed hereinabove, such as inFIG.1andFIG.7D) with one or more notches630′, terminating at base plate634. Owing to the triple alternating blade width/angles (side wall angles) of blades630and notches630′ the liquid is moved in a spiral rotational oscillation pattern during mixing.

FIG.8illustrates an embodiment of another rotational mixing element, showing mixing at an angle, shown generally at800. As set forth above, the mixing pack800generally includes a container811for holding a multi-phase cosmetic composition, a mixing element828for mixing the multi-phase cosmetic composition, and an applicator860for applying the temporarily miscible components of the multi-phase cosmetic composition to a keratinous material. Container811may be any suitable shape, size, configuration, material, etc., to appropriately hold a desired multi-phase cosmetic composition. In the depicted embodiment, the container811includes a substantially cylinder glass or plastic rounded or curved/bulbous container body812, having a first end813attached to an end cap assembly850structured as discussed hereinabove with rotational inner drive shaft for rotational movement of the mixing element828. The stem of the applicator860extends from an interior portion of a cap/applicator top861that is removably securable to the end cap assembly850on the container811for sealing and enclosing the cosmetic composition therein.

In this embodiment, the mixing element828has a plurality of mixing blades or paddles830a,830b,830n+1, attached to a collar829extending longitudinally therefrom. Mixing blades830a,830bare herein shown as curved or arched to configure to the shape of the curved or bulbous bottle/container811. Further, in this embodiment, the mixing blades830a,830bhave a wider paddle like distal end839as compared to the proximal end837, with arched or curved main body838proximal to the walls of the container811. The mixing blades830a,830bdo not terminate at a base plate but are free ends. In operation, a user angles the bottle811such as represented by angle t for ease of mixing in the natural position. The angle plus profile of the bottle/container811in operation with the curved mixing blades830a,830b(preferably having four mixing blades) keeps the formula together at the base of the bottle/container811to maximize mixing of the formula during rotational mixing.

FIG.9illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a mixing element928suitable for mixing a multi-phase cosmetic composition contained within a container as discussed hereinabove inFIGS.1-5. Mixing element928is formed having a collar929with plurality of mixing blade930(930a,930b,930n+1) extending longitudinally therefrom. Collar929is formed as a cylindrical ring or band and is appointed for attachment in the assembly discussed hereinabove, with the described rotational end cap assembly. Mixing blades930are formed as an elongated blades having a substantially straight proximal end937, blade body938and distal end939, face walls940and shallow substantially perpendicular side walls941. Proximal end937is attached along a portion of perpendicular side walls941and extends vertically or longitudinally from collar929with face walls940being substantially perpendicular to collar929. Distal end939terminates at angle end portions945. During rotation the plurality of angled mixing blades930with angle end portions945rapidly mix the multi-phase cosmetic composition.

FIGS.10A and10Billustrate exemplary embodiments of mixing blades1028,1128, respectively, with blade cams or ribbons1036,1136, respectively. The embodiment rotating structure is similar to that discussed above in relation toFIGS.1-5.

Referring toFIG.10A, a container1011is provided holding a multi-phase cosmetic composition. Container1011includes a container body1012, having a first end1013attached to an end cap assembly1050that removably connects to an applicator top/cap1061of an applicator1060. End cap assembly1050includes a bottle shoulder having a shoulder collar1053and an inner cap (not shown) having a rotating inner stem/drive shaft as discussed hereinabove. Mixing element1028is limited to rotational movement along a central axis of container1011.

In the embodiment shown, mixing element1028is constructed having a collar1029having one or more mixing blades, herein shown as a plurality of mixing blades1030extending longitudinally therefrom with alternating blade widths and/or angled blades1030. Mixing blades are formed terminating at a base plate1034having cams or ribbons1036for upward force, preferably molded therein for providing enhanced turbulence. Bottom wall1016of container1011preferably includes cams or projections1037extending there from to provide haptic sensory to the user, including for force and/or clicking sound.

Referring toFIG.10B, a container1111is provided holding a multi-phase cosmetic composition. Container1111includes a container body1112, having a first end1113attached to an end cap assembly1150that removably connects to an applicator top/cap1161of an applicator1160. End cap assembly1150includes a bottle shoulder having a shoulder collar1153and an inner cap (not shown) having a rotating inner stem/drive shaft as discussed hereinabove. Mixing element1128is limited to rotational movement along a central axis of container1111.

In the embodiment shown, mixing element1128is constructed having a collar1129having one or more mixing blades, herein shown as a plurality of mixing blades1130extending longitudinally therefrom with alternating blade widths and/or angled blades1130. Mixing blades are formed terminating at a base plate1134having cams or ribbons or upward projections1136preferably molded therein for providing enhanced turbulence, as well as haptic sensory to the use, including for force and/or clicking sound. Container1111is provided holding a multi-phase cosmetic composition. Container1111includes a container body1112, having a first end1113attached to an end cap assembly1150that removably connects to an applicator top/cap1160of an applicator1160. End cap assembly1150includes a bottle shoulder1151having a shoulder collar1153and an inner cap (not shown) having a rotating inner stem/drive shaft as discussed hereinabove. Mixing element1128is limited to rotational movement along a central axis of container1111.

Mixing element1128is constructed having a collar1129having one or more mixing blades, herein shown as a plurality of mixing blades1130extending longitudinally therefrom. Mixing blades are angled with alternating proximal and distal end widths and are formed terminating at a base plate1134. One or more ribbons1136extend between neighboring or adjacent mixing blades1130for providing enhanced turbulence. Bottom wall1116of container1111preferably includes cams or projections1137extending there from to provide haptic sensory to the user, including for force and/or clicking sound.

FIGS.11A and11Billustrate exemplary embodiments of a mixing element suitable for mixing a multi-phase cosmetic composition contained within a container as discussed hereinabove.FIG.11Ashows a mixing element1228suitable for mixing a multi-phase cosmetic composition contained within a container as discussed hereinabove inFIGS.1-5. Mixing element1228is formed having a collar1229with a plurality of mixing blades1230having a helical shape, with one or more curved sections1230′ extending longitudinally therefrom. Collar1229is formed as a cylindrical ring or band and is appointed for attachment in the assembly discussed hereinabove, with the described rotational end cap assembly. Mixing blades1230are formed as an elongated helical blades having a proximal end1237, blade body1238and distal end1239, face walls1240and shallow substantially perpendicular side walls1241.

Proximal end1237is attached along a portion of perpendicular side walls1241and extends vertically or longitudinally from collar1229with face walls1240being substantially perpendicular to collar1229. Distal end1239terminates at base plate1234. Alternatively, distal end1239do not terminate at a base plate1234but instead intersect forming a base bottom (not shown). During rotation the plurality of helical mixing blades1230rapidly mix the multi-phase cosmetic composition.FIG.11Bshows a mixing element1230′ as discussed inFIG.11Aincluding helical blades1230′ with a plurality of apertures1231′ integrated therein.

FIG.12illustrates an embodiment of the mixing blade assembly, shown generally at1300. Mixing pack1300is suitable for mixing a multi-phase cosmetic composition (not shown) so that the immiscible components are temporarily miscible. The mixing pack1310generally includes a container1311for holding a multi-phase cosmetic composition, a mixing element1328for mixing the multi-phase cosmetic composition, and an applicator1360for applying the temporarily miscible components of the multi-phase cosmetic composition to a keratinous material.

Container1311may be any suitable shape, size, configuration, material, etc., to appropriately hold a desired multi-phase cosmetic composition. In the depicted embodiment, the container1311includes a substantially cylinder glass or plastic container body, having a first end1313forming a top of container1311and a second end1316that is enclosed to form the bottom of container1311. The first end1313is attached to an end cap assembly1350that may be press-fit or otherwise secured to container1311in any suitable manner.

End cap assembly1350includes structures discussed hereinabove, including a bottle shoulder having a shoulder collar which in turn is attached to a secondary shoulder collar, in a stacked cylindrical arrangement with an aligned central opening for pass through of applicator1360, an inner cap having a rotating inner stem/drive shaft and O-ring seal and includes rotating inner stem/drive shaft rotated by way of drive collar1370rotating mixing element1328.

An exemplary mixing element1328suitable for mixing the multi-phase cosmetic composition is contained within the container1311. Mixing element1328comprises one or more mixing blades1330a,1330cattached to a bottom base plate1334and fanning out therefrom alternately arranged with one or more mixing blades1330b,1330dattached to a top collar1329and the bottom base plate1334. The mixing element1328is in mechanical communication with a drive shaft of the end cap assembly operable to substantially rotate the one or more mixing blades around the central axis, herein shown as A-A.

Mixing element1328is attached to end cap assembly1350. Mixing blades1330fan out and are compressed when placed in bottle/container1311and expand outward within container1311near the top/first end1313. Mixing blades1330a,1330cflex and fan outward during rotational mixing. seeing the mixing paddles, and application of the formula. Bias movement may be provided. What is more, the container/mixing pack assembly may be formed as an oval shaped pack; square shaped, elliptical, etc., wherein the fans creating undulation, bias movement into the shape, i.e., corners, etc., of the container/bottle to move liquid thoroughly within the container.

FIG.13illustrates an embodiment of the mixing blade assembly, shown generally at1400. The mixing pack generally includes a container1411, a mixing element1428for mixing a multi-phase cosmetic composition, and an applicator1460for applying the temporarily miscible components of the multi-phase cosmetic composition to a keratinous material. Container1411may be any suitable shape, size, configuration, material, etc., to appropriately hold a desired multi-phase cosmetic composition. In the depicted embodiment, the container1411includes a substantially cylinder glass or plastic container body, having a first end1413(top) and a second end1416that is enclosed to form the bottom of container1411.

Second end1416includes an aperture with gear grooves extending to a base collar1429with a rotatable base plate1434with mixing blades1430of mixing element1428thereto attached. Mixing blades1430extend from collar1429upward toward the first end1413of container1411. A motor1450(external and/or internal) is provided having power means, such as battery operation, and a top plate1451with a rotatable gear shaft1452adapted to be received within aperture with gear grooves of second end1426. Alternatively, the motor1450may be internally integrated within the collar1429and/or bottle/container1411. Upon activation of the external motor1450mixing element1428rotates to mix the composition. Alternatively, a magnet may be used in place of the gear shaft1452for magnetically propelled movement of a ferrous mixing element.

FIG.14depicts an exemplary embodiment of a mixing pack suitable for mixing a multi-phase cosmetic composition (not shown) wherein the assembly includes a mixing element (end cap assembly1550) which can be compressed causing a deformation of mixing blades1530which springs back into place. The mixing pack1500generally includes a container1511for holding a multi-phase cosmetic composition, a mixing element1528for mixing the multi-phase cosmetic composition, and an applicator having an applicator top1561for applying the temporarily miscible components of the multi-phase cosmetic composition to a keratinous material. The container1524includes a substantially cylindrically shaped container body having a first (or top) open end1513that receives an end cap assembly1550secured by threading, snap-fit, or otherwise, and enclosed bottom end/second end1516. It should be appreciated that the container1511may instead be comprised of a container body that is integrally formed with the end cap assembly1550.

End cap assembly1550encloses and seals the first, top open end of the container and provides an interface between the applicator1560and the interior of the container1511. In that regard, the end cap assembly1550includes a central opening extending from a top surface to a bottom surface of the end cap assembly1550. The central opening is sized to allow the applicator to pass there through. The end cap assembly1550may include an internal wiping assembly that helps wipe excess cosmetic composition from the applicator tip as it is removed from the container. Any suitable internal wiping assembly for the intended application may be used. End cap assembly1550includes a bottle shoulder1551having a shoulder collar1553for removable attachment to applicator top1561. An inner cap (not shown) is provided having a rotating inner stem/drive shaft and O-ring seal surrounding an inner cap opening for pass-through of the applicator.

At least a portion of inner cap is secured within bottle shoulder1551and includes rotating inner stem/drive shaft including grooves or tracts running horizontal along the peripheral that receives mating tabs therein of a drive collar so that the drive collar attached to applicator top1561can be pumped up and down, thereby compressing mix blades as shown at A and depressing mixing blades as shown at B of mixing element1528. Mixing blades1530are preferably composed of a flexible polymeric material or silicon material for compression and elongation/depression attached to a collar (not shown) which in turn is attached to the drive shaft1566to pull mixing blades1530up and down to mix the composition, causing mixing blades1530to expand or fold outward causing the mixing blades themselves to deform, fold and/or rotate along the collar, and/or contract and fold inward causing semi-rotation. In the subject embodiment, the mixing blades deform and/or crush upon neighboring mixing blades and reverse spring when force, i.e., cap assembly applying downward force, is released. When the force is released, the mixing blades fan out via rotation along the collar, causing compression movement, coil and/or rotational movement. Alternative to the driver, the end cap assembly may have a piston configuration, cam or ratchet may be used to move upward and downward force against the mixing element to deform, coil or fold the mixing blades, and to conversely provide release for allowing the mixing blades to spring back into place and move and/or mix the multi-phase liquid.

FIG.15depicts an exemplary embodiment of a mixing pack suitable for mixing a multi-phase cosmetic composition (not shown) wherein the assembly Includes a bi-injected collar assembly integral to the mixing of the contents. In the embodiment shown, the mixing pack1600generally includes a container1611for holding a multi-phase cosmetic composition, a mixing element herein formed as applicator stem1662for mixing the multi-phase cosmetic composition, and an applicator1660having an applicator top1661for applying the temporarily miscible components of the multi-phase cosmetic composition to a keratinous material. The container1611has a first (or top) open end that receives an end cap assembly1650secured by threading, snap-fit, or otherwise, and enclosed bottom end/second end.

Mixing element is formed by way of an applicator stem1662of applicator1660and is sealing received within a top flexible wall1655of end cap assembly1650. End cap assembly1650encloses and seals the first, top open end of the container and provides an interface between the applicator1660and the interior of the container1611. The end cap assembly1650may include an internal wiping assembly that helps wipe excess cosmetic composition from the applicator tip as it is removed from the container. Any suitable internal wiping assembly for the intended application may be used.

End cap assembly1650is preferably composed of bi-injection molding and includes shoulder1651secured on bottle top/first end1613and flexible wall1655. Flexible wall1655includes an aperture1667with a seal that receives stem1662of applicator1660. In this embodiment, applicator top1661is grasped and the bottle/or container1611turned or angled, and the applicator top1661and container1611shaken rapidly back and forth, wherein applicator stem1662and the tip thereof,1664, rapidly move back and forth and rotationally along a centerline z-z preferably contacting side walls of container1611to make a clicking or haptic sound. When the composition has been adequately mixed, the user simply removes the applicator stem1662with applicator top1661from top flexible wall1655and immediately applies the mixed solution.

FIG.16depicts an exemplary embodiment of a mixing pack suitable for mixing a multi-phase cosmetic composition (not shown) wherein the assembly includes a flexible collar assembly integral to the mixing of the contents, shown generally at1700. The mixing pack assembly1700comprise a flexible collar assembly1750for removable attachment to a mixing element1728, which in this embodiment is formed by an applicator stem1762of an applicator1760for applying temporarily miscible components of the multi-phase cosmetic composition to a keratinous material.

Movement is actuated by moving the applicator stem1762rotationally (including rotational degrees “r”; wherein r≤360 degrees; i.e., full rotation about 360 degrees, semi-rotation <360 degrees), and/or laterally back and forth, striking side walls/body1712of bottle1711. Bottle/container1711has a first (or top) open end1713that receives flexible cap assembly1750.

Flexible cap assembly1750is constructed having a connection collar1751, preferably being composed of a rigid material, that is secured by threading, snap-fit, or otherwise, to first open end1713. Connection collar1751may be removable form bottle/container1711, or may be fixedly attached to bottle/container1711. Proximal, adjacent, and stacked-upon connection collar1751is a flexible collar1753. Flexible collar1753may extend downward through connection collar1751forming a seal lip against a top rim of the open end1713for both sealing bottle/container1711, and/or for securement of flexible collar1753. Alternatively, flexible collar1753and connection collar1751may be formed as a single piece, by way of bi-injection molding. Flexible collar1753preferably a smaller diameter than connection collar1751, and provides flexure along both the rotational plan and lateral plan from center axis c as a user moves the applicator top/cap1761back and forth, rotationally, and even pulling for further movement longitudinally. Flexible cap assembly1750further comprises a secondary connection collar1754, preferably rigid, that includes threads or grooves or snap fit for removably attached to applicator top/cap1761. The flexible cap assembly1750may include a wiping assembly. Flexible cap assembly1750is preferably formed by bi-injection molding.

After a user grasps applicator top/cap1761, optionally angling and/or turning bottle/container1711on its side or up in the air, the user can then move the applicator top/cap1761rapidly, and visa via the mixing element/applicator stem1762, at any degree from the center axis c for rotational and/or lateral and some longitudinal movement. The applicator stem1762and the tip thereof,1764, rapidly move back and forth laterally and/or rotationally along centerline c-c preferably contacting side walls of container1711to make a clicking or haptic sound. Omni-directional movement is provided along centerline c-c, which is multi-accessible by the user depending on the movement of the applicator top/cap and visa vie the applicator mixing element1728. When the composition has been adequately mixed, the user simply removes the applicator stem1762with applicator top1761and immediately applies the mixed solution.

The flexible collar assembly may be molded as one part/or as an assembly. The flexible collar assembly may be formed as a universal joint and/or ball and socket arrangement guided by a fixed collar.

It should be appreciated that any other suitable container body, caps, and applicator may be used for the desired application. For instance, the container may be configured to suit the intended use, for example, lip gloss, foundation, concealer, lacquer, etc.

It should also be appreciated that certain features of each embodiment may be eliminated or replaced with other features shown in described in other embodiments. For instance, in some embodiments, the stem and applicator tip may be removed. Such an embodiment may be suitable for applications such as foundation, lotion, etc., where application is done with a user's finger tips, a cotton swab, etc. Thus, the claimed subject matter is not limited to the mixing assemblies, actuator assemblies, applicators, or the precise mixing pack embodiments disclosed herein.

The mixing packs described above may also be comprised of certain materials, surface treatments, surface features, coatings, etc., to improve the interaction of the mixing pack with the multi-phase cosmetic composition. For instance, at least a portion of the mixing elements may be treated with a suitable material that increases wetting of an aqueous phase of the multi-phase cosmetic composition on the surface of the mixing element. In one embodiment, one or more surfaces of the mixing element may be comprised of at least one hydrophilic or a superhydrophilic surface. The mixing element may also be treated to increase wetting of a silicone phase of the multi-phase cosmetic composition on the surface of the mixing element. For instance, in an embodiment, one or more surfaces of the mixing elements may be comprised of at least one hydrophobic or superhydrophobic surface.

The wettability of a region can be determined using various technologies and methodologies including contact angle methods, the Goniometer method, the Whilemy method, or the Sessile drop technique. Wetting is a process by which a liquid interacts with a solid. Wettability (the degree of wetting) is determined by a force balance between adhesive and cohesive force and is often characterized by a contact angle. The contact angle is the angle made by the intersection of the liquid/solid interface and the liquid/air interface. Alternatively, it is the angle between a solid sample's surface and the tangent of a droplet's ovate shape at the edge of the droplet. Contact angle measurements provide a measure of interfacial energies and conveys direct information regarding how hydrophilic or hydrophobic a surface is. For example, superhydrophilic surfaces have contact angles less than about 5°, hydrophilic surfaces have contact angles less than about 90°, hydrophobic surfaces have contact angles greater than about 90°, and superhydrophobic surfaces have contact angles greater than about 150°. (see, e.g., U.S. Publication No 2013/0131575, entitled “Systems, Devices, and Methods Including Infection-Fighting and Monitoring Shunts,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety).

As a specific example, the mixing elements may be treated with one or more hydrophilic coatings, including polyvinylpyrolidone (PVP), polyurethanes, polyacrylic acid (PAA), polyethylene oxide (PEO), and/or polysaccharides. In the alternative or in addition thereto, the mixing elements may be treated to increase the surface energy of the mixing element, such as with a plasma treatment. In another example, the mixing element may be treated with one or more hydrophobic or superhydrophobic coatings such as manganese oxide polystyrene (MnO2/PS) nano-composite, zinc oxide polystyrene (ZnO/PS) nanocomposite, precipitated calcium carbonate, carbon nano-tube structures, and/or silica nano-coating. Additional non-limiting examples of materials that affect wettability of a surface include, but are not limited to, amphoteric surfactants, anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, non-ionic surfactants, and the like.

In the alternative or in addition thereto, the mixing elements may comprise one or more nanostructures, microstructures, hierarchical structures, and the like that affect wettability of a surface. Non-limiting examples of nanostructures, microstructures, hierarchical structures, and the like include nanopatterned, micropatterned, and the like polymeric coatings. Specific examples include patterned silicon surface, perfluorodecyltriethyoxysilane (PFDTES) coatings, poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) patterned structures, polystyrene (PS) (hydrophobic) patterned structures, and the like.

The above-noted treatments may be applied to any suitable portion of the mixing element. For instance, if a mixing element includes more than one surface, the first surface may be treated with a hydrophilic coating or similar, and the second surface may be treated with a hydrophobic coating or similar. In another alternative configuration, the mixing element may be formed from a hydrophilic material or similar, and a hydrophobic material or coating may be overmolded or treated on one surface of the mixing element. In such configurations, the mixing element would have at least two different surface properties.

It should also be appreciated that the surface properties of the mixing element may be defined in any suitable manner. For instance, the mixing element itself may be made from a hydrophilic material or hydrophobic material. In the alternative, the mixing element may be made from any suitable material, and one or more surfaces of the mixing element may be treated with a hydrophilic material or hydrophobic material. Moreover, the mixing element may be treated, coated, sprayed, etc., with a suitable material in any suitable manner. In addition, the mixing element may be textured or patterned in a suitable manner.

The detailed description set forth above in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of exemplary embodiments of mixing packs having mixing elements for use with containers containing a multi-phase cosmetic composition and are not intended to represent the only embodiments. The representative embodiments described in this disclosure are provided merely as an example or illustration and are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the claimed subject matter to the precise forms disclosed.

In the foregoing description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art, however, that the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without some or all of the specific details. In some instances, well-known process steps or features have not been described in detail in order not to unnecessarily obscure various aspects of the present disclosure. Further, it will be appreciated that the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may employ any combination of features described herein.

The present disclosure may also include references to directions, such as “forward,” “rearward,” “front,” “back,” “upward,” “downward,” “lateral,” “medial,” “in,” “out,” “extended,” “advanced,” “retracted,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “proximal,” “distal,” “central,” etc. These references, and other similar references in the present disclosure, are only to assist in helping describe and understand the particular embodiment and are not intended to limit the present disclosure to these directions or locations.

The present disclosure may also reference quantities and numbers. Unless specifically stated, such quantities and numbers are not to be considered restrictive, but exemplary of the possible quantities or numbers associated with the present disclosure. Also, in this regard, the present disclosure may use the term “plurality” to reference a quantity or number. In this regard, the term “plurality” is meant to be any number that is more than one, for example, two, three, four, five, etc. In an embodiment, “about,” “approximately,” etc., means plus or minus 5% of the stated value.

Thus, while illustrative embodiments have been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.