WO1997035499A1

WO1997035499A1 - Liquid dispenser for products utilizing a brush-type applicator

Info

Publication number: WO1997035499A1
Application number: PCT/US1997/004086
Authority: WO
Inventors: Robert J. Sheffler; Charles Chang
Original assignee: Sheffler Robert J; Charles Chang
Priority date: 1996-03-25
Filing date: 1997-03-17
Publication date: 1997-10-02
Also published as: AU2421197A

Abstract

The present invention is a cosmetic dispenser for liquids such as eyeliner or nail enamel. The dispenser includes a container (26) having a neck portion (28), a removable sealing closure (38) carried by the neck portion (28), and an applicator (42) carried by the sealing closure (38). The applicator (42) comprises an elongate stem (42) extending downward into the container (38), and a brush or tip portion (46) is disposed at the lower end of the stem (42). An elongate, tubular depending shroud (74) is pressed into the neck portion (28) of the container (26), the shroud surrounding the stem (42). The shroud (74) has one or more vent openings (60) through which accumulated cosmetic product from the neck can drain back into the interior of the container (26).

Description

LIQUID DISPENSER FOR PRODUCTS UTILIZING A BRUSH-TYPE APPLICATOR

NO CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

STATEMENT AS TO RIGHTS TO INVENTIONS MADE UNDER FEDERALLY- SPONSORED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.

Research and development of the present invention and application have not been Federally-sponsored, and no rights are given under any Federal program.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to cosmetic dispensers for eyeliner, nail enamel, and the like, and more particularly to improvements in container and applicator constructions associated therewith. Its utilization may also be extended to liquid correction fluid.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART INCLUDING INFORMATION DISCLOSED UNDER 37 CFR Sections 1.97-1.99 Existing dispensers for cosmetic substances such as nail enamel or eyeliner consist generally of plastic or glass containers that are fitted with applicators in the form of continuous thread screw caps carrying stem- mounted applicator brushes of varying types, the brushes being normally immersed in the liquid in the container when the cap and applicator are assembled thereto.

In eyeliner package designs which incorporate a wiper disposed in the neck of the container, a poor fit between the wiper and the stem of the applicator typically results in unsatisfactory wiping action, especially when the stem is tapered toward its bottom, where the applicator brush is mounted. Even more objectionable is the fact that the wiper tends to accumulate scraped-off product when the applicator stem is re-inserted into the container, and typically no provision is made for drain-back of such accumulated product. As a consequence, the product tends to become more viscous due to evaporation, eventually drying and causing interference with smooth withdrawal and insertion of the stem. In addition, particles of dried substance can break off and adhere to the stem/brush, after a period of time.

Figs. 1-3 of the drawings of the present application illustrate typical prior cosmetic container constructions, specifically for nail polish or enamel. One noteworthy drawback inherent in such structures involves the choice of a suitable length for the stem that carries the brush. Short stems are desirable from the standpoint of improving the user's ability to control or manipulate the brush per se, during application of product to the nails. Stated differently, longer stems require more dexterity and steadiness of the hand. However, a short stem which does not extend to the bottom of the container suffers the disadvantage of an inability to collect all of the liquid product as the container approaches a depleted condition. Awkward tipping of the container and canting of the applicator are required, as in Fig. 1. With stems of increased length, as in Fig. 2, the tendency for the brush to contact the transverse bottom plate push-up of the container increases. Under some circumstances, the contact is minimal and of little or no detriment. However, with glass containers, inherent defects in the bottom wall, specifically what are known as "slug bottoms", "heel taps", and/or "asymmetrical bottom plates" are encountered. These in turn give rise to a condition wherein the brush can undesirably be forcibly flared out, as in Fig. 3. Serious deformation of the brush can thus occur, as by the bristles taking a "set", rendering the brush unsuitable to obtain a desired, controlled application of the enamel to the nails.

Moreover, use of blender beads as shown in Figs. 1-3, to agitate the liquid and thus maintain the product solids in proper liquid suspension, and to reduce the effects of thixotropic viscosity, can result in damage to the stem/brush from repeated impact; such beads typically take the form of simple stainless steel balls, or polyethylene coated stainless steel balls. Repeated, forceful impact of the balls on the brush/stem often leads to permanent damage thereto.

Finally, in packages of the type shown in Figs. 1- 3, the necks have relatively large openings which provide little resistance to spillage of product in the event of inadvertent upsetting of the container.

The following patents are hereby cited as being indicative of liqui^'d dispensers currently known to exist in the prior art:

U. S. Patents Nos. : 2,210,766 2,271,747 2,344,471

2,681,463 2,990,563 4,525,090

4,850,727 5,097,853 5,121,763

Patent No. 2,210,766 discloses a liquid dispenser comprising an integrally molded applicator cap and stem, with the remote end of the stem having an expanded surface area, thereby to enhance capillarity- type retention of liquid thereon. The particular product with which the applicator is used is not mentioned.

Patent No. 2,681,463 similarly discloses a dispenser comprising an integrally molded screw cap and stem, also featuring improved retention of liquid on the stem as the latter is being withdrawn. Again, the particular product application is not given. Other forms of applicator constructions are shown in U. S. Patents Nos. 2,344,471; 2,271,747; and 2,990,563. All three are concerned with providing improved liquid retention on the stem per se, thereby facilitating an efficient transfer of liquid from the bottle to the application area.

U. S. Patent No. 4,525,090 discloses one prior arrangement for reducing waste otherwise resulting from an inability of a short-stem brush to reach the bottom of the container. In the patented construction, the stem/brush combination is slidable in the closure cap, such that following a partial unscrewing of the cap, the stem/brush can be manually pressed downwardly as in Fig. 3 of the patent, causing the brush to approach the container bottom.

Patent No. 4,850,727 relates to an eyeliner dispenser having an applicator with a rubber tip, and wherein a tapered sleeve (7) is open at the bottom so as to permit the stem tip to penetrate the opening and contact fluid in the container interior. A sealing member (40) in Fig. 4, minimizes the possibility of leakage of fluid into the sleeve.

Patent No. 5,097,853 discloses an eyeliner applicator device incorporating a body and cap, the latter having a quantity of eyeliner liquid and a closure membrane for confining the liquid while still permitting penetration by a pointed tip portion of an applicator tip. When in the storage position, the tip extends through the membrane, and is in physical contact with the liquid in the cap. Upon withdrawal of the tip, the membrane automatically seals off. Finally, Patent No. 5,121,763 discloses a dispenser for eyeliner liquid comprising a liquid reservoir, and a cap having a hollow stem and a plunger therein, the latter carrying at its inner, remote end, a brush. The opposite or outer end of the plunger has a manually engageable knob by which the plunger can be adjusted in the stem, so as to enable the brush to be selectively retracted in the stem. The arrangement is such that the effective length of the applicator brush can be adjustably set to suit the needs of the user, from a relatively long, slender configuration, to a relatively shorter, stubby-like shape; or alternately, completely retracted into the stem. In addition, a wiper (25) is provided, to remove excess product from the brush as it is withdrawn for use. The plunger is always captive in the stem, and thus both are removed from the reservoir together, as a unit, with the brush emerging and having a predetermined amount of eyeliner or mascara adhered to it. It is considered that the various patented devices noted above have, at best, enjoyed little or no commercialization, possibly due to cost and/or functional considerations. Accordingly there has been a long-felt need for a dispenser which is economical to produce, and which features improved ease of use and improved resistance to premature drying-out or clumping/flaking of the product being dispensed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The above disadvantages and drawbacks of prior cosmetic dispensers are largely obviated by the present invention, which has for one object to provide a novel and improved cosmetic dispenser which is simple in structure, and which provides improved resistance against inadvertent solidification or caking of cos- metic product, even over extended periods of use.

A related object of the invention is to provide an improved cosmetic dispenser in accordance with the foregoing, which features improved ease of use by automatically reducing the tendency for the cosmetic product to form globules or large droplets on its applicator brush or tip.

Still another object of the invention is to provide an improved cosmetic dispenser as above set forth, which is rugged and reliable in use, and wherein the applicator brush or tip associated therewith is especially immune to inadvertent damage due to contact by metal blender balls of a type conventionally utilized in such dispensers.

A still further object of the invention is to provide an improved cosmetic dispenser as above characterized, which features an automatic drain-back capability, for returning cosmetic liquid from the neck of the container back into the interior thereof.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide an improved cosmetic dispenser of the kind indicated, which is resistant to spillage of the cosmetic contents in the event of inadvertent tipping of the container.

Still another object of the invention is to provide an improved cosmetic dispenser as above described, featuring improved control of application through use of a shortened applicator stem, and maintaining the ability to utilize most of the residual cosmetic liquid product occupying the container.

In accomplishing the above objects the invention provides a cosmetic dispenser comprising in combination, a bottle-like container for a liquid cosmetic product, the container having a neck portion and a removable sealing closure carried by the neck portion, an applicator carried by the sealing closure, comprising an elongate stem extending downward into the container and having a brush or tip portion at its lower end, and an elongate tubular depending shroud carried by the neck portion of the container, the shroud also surrounding the stem. The lower end portion of the shroud surrounds and protects the brush against impact damage from objects exterior to the shroud, such as blender beads of the type normally carried in the container.

The applicator can preferably be molded integral with a screw cap for the container. An unique combination of wiper means in the shroud interior and vent or drain-back openings in the shroud itself, reduces the tendency for cosmetic product to accumulate in the container neck. There are thus minimized in¬ advertent product coagulation, and/or premature formation of partially-cured product clumps or fragments.

Exposure of the short stem applicator has the additional advantage of reducing product solvent loss through evaporation as the product is being applied, owing to a reduction of less product coating a curtailed stem.

Other features and advantages will hereinafter appear.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figs. 1-3 respectively illustrate several existing cosmetic dispenser designs, known per se, in the prior art. In particular. Figure 1 is an axial section of a nail enamel container, having an applicator arrangement utilizing a short stem and brush, and wherein difficulty is typically encountered in attempting to access the remaining cosmetic liquid as the container approaches an exhausted or depleted condition.

Fig. 2 is a view like Fig. 1, but showing a lengthened stem and brush where poor tolerances of the container dimensions lead to varying degrees of contact of the brush with the bottom wall of the container, providing only marginal results.

Fig. 3 is a view like Figs. 1 and 2, except showing a still longer stem and tip, and wherein the contact of the brush filaments with the bottom of the container causes an undesired flaring out, often giving rise to a permanent "set" to the filaments. The resulting brush remains misshapen after being with¬ drawn, detracting from its usefulness as an applicator for nail enamel or the like.

Fig. 4 is a vertical axial section of an improved cosmetic dispenser made in accordance with the principles of the present invention, particularly showing a container, an applicator cap and stem, a brush at the remote end of the stem, and a vented shroud surrounding the stem and brush, and including a wiper for the stem.

Fig. 5 is a fragmentary section of a modified shroud construction, adapted to be substituted for the shroud of Fig. 4, constituting another embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 6 is an exploded view of the shroud and wiper of Fig. 5.

Fig. 7 is a fragmentary section of a further modified shroud construction, adapted to be substituted for the shroud of Fig. 4, constituting still another embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 8 is a perspective view of the shroud and wiper of Fig. 7. Fig. 9 is a vertical section like Fig. 4, of a further modified dispenser, incorporating a shorter shroud and stem, and longer vent or drain-back openings in the shroud, constituting yet another embodiment of the invention. Fig. 10 is a view like Fig. 9, of a further modified dispenser for nail enamel, the dispenser incorporating a further modified shroud defining a well, and a modified brush configuration.

. Fig. 11 is a fragmentary section, of a further modified dispenser adapted for application of nail enamel, constituting still another embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 12 is a fragmentary axial sectional view, enlarged, of an eyeliner/nail enamel applicator illustrating still another embodiment of the invention. Fig. 13 is a view like that of Fig. 12 but illustrating yet another embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 14 is a bottom plan view of the cap component of the applicator of Fig. 13.

Fig. 15 is a top plan view of the plug component of the applicator of Fig. 13.

Fig. 16 is a fragmentary axial sectional view of an applicator according to the invention, showing a still further embodiment of the invention, and .

Fig. 17 is a fragmentary side elevational view of the plug component of the embodiment of Fig. 16. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PRIOR ART Fig. 1 shows a" conventional cosmetic dispenser generally designated by the numeral 10, suitable for liquid nail enamel or similar material. Such dispensers comprise a container 12 with a threaded neck, a screw cap 14, and a depending stem 16 attached to the screw cap by suitable means (not shown) . The stem 16 in turn carries a brush 18 in the usual manner. Several blender beads 20 are optionally provided, to assist the user in agitating the liquid enamel and mixing the suspended coloring components with the solvent portion of the enamel. Blender beads 20 can be constituted of stainless steel, or polyethylene coated, stainless steel, and usually a plurality of such beads is uti- lized within a single container. In this figure, the stem 16 is relatively short, and in order to reach the residual product in the container as the latter nears depletion, the container must be tilted, and the cap 14 similarly tilted on the container axis, to immerse the brush 18 in the liquid 22.

Fig. 2 shows a similar arrangement with the exception that a somewhat longer stem 16a is employed. This suffers from the disadvantage that the relatively poor tolerances on containers such as glass, result in an undesirable non-uniformity from unit to unit, to the end that the tip of the brush 18 may be either too short and not reach the bottom wall surface, or else slightly too long, whereby the stem 16b causes the brush to be flattened or "flared out" by contact with the surface, as in Fig. 3. Such flattening is detrimental in that the brush filaments become distorted, that is, they tend to take a permanent flare or "set". This often interferes with a proper, controlled brush-on application, because the distorted filaments do not diverge sufficiently uniformly, or "fan out" evenly, as the liquid is being applied to the nails.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Referring first to Fig. 4 there is illustrated a novel dispenser 24 for cosmetic substances, particularly eyeliner liquid. The dispenser 24 comprises a bottle-like container 26, which may be either glass or plastic such as rigid polyvinylchloride, oriented polyester, polyolefins, or polystyrene copolymers. The container 26 has a neck portion 28 and a transverse bottom wall 32. A plurality of blender beads 34 is preferably included in the container 26, to aid in stirring the contents as the container is shaken prior to use. The beads 34 are typically constituted of stainless steel, either with or without a plastic coating, such as polyethylene. The container neck portion 28 is provided with conventional external threads 36, all in the usual manner.

Received on the neck portion 28 is an applicator device 38, comprising an outer shell 50, a threaded insert 40, and an integrally molded or formed, depending tapered stem 42 which joins to the underside of the transverse web 44 of the threaded insert 40 as shown. The stem 42 is elongate, and has a brush 46 or other suitable tip configuration adapted to hold, by capillarity, a quantity of the liquid from the con- tainer 26 as the applicator stem 42 is withdrawn therefrom. The threaded insert 40 is preferably constituted of molded plastic, having an annular side wall 48, and typically a decorative polished cover or shell 50 suitably fastened thereon. Cooperable annular shoulders 52, 54 on the cap 40 and shell 50 effect seating of the latter on the cap.

Referring again to Fig. 4 and in accordance with the present invention there is provided a novel and improved, elongate, tubular depending shroud 56 carried by the neck portion 28 of the container 26, which significantly facilitates operation and use of the dispenser 24 by providing for effective drain-back of excess product that tends to accumulate around the neck portion, and minimizing premature evaporation and undesirable increase in product viscosity in that area. Additionally, the shroud 56 minimizes the tendency for dried product to accumulate in the neck area. In Fig. 4, the product comprises eyeliner liquid, designated 58. In accomplishing the improved functioning of the dispenser 24, the shroud 56 is provided with one or more passages or vents 60 in the side wall of its upper portion, together with an internal, annular wiper or wiper means 62 that is preferably resilient and is fitted into an internal annular groove 64 in the shroud 56. In a preferred form, the vent or vents 60 are disposed just above the wiper 62. The latter is preferably constituted of a material which is characterized by resilience, thus having a memory characteristic; suitable materials include polyester elastomers, which are both flexible and resilient, and which provide an effective sliding seal with the exterior surface of the stem 42, substantially along the entire tapered surface thereof. With such construction, as the applicator stem 42 and threaded insert 40 are initially withdrawn from the shroud 56, the resilient wiper 62 contracts radially an extent so as to "hug" the stem surface, thereby scraping any cosmetic product therefrom in the manner of a tubular squeegee. The brush 46, being of smaller cross dimension than the remote, lower end of the stem 42, experiences minimal contact with the wiper 62 per se, only to the extent that if the latter has a droplet of liquid thereon, the surface tension of the droplet will likely be overcome by contact with the wiper 62. There is thus eliminated the tendency for a globule of liquid to survive intact as the brush 46 passes by the wiper. Accordingly, the user has better control over the amount of liquid carried on the brush, and consequently, application of the liquid to the eye area is facilitated.

Further, by the invention the uppermost interior surface 66 of the shroud 56 has a tapered or conical configuration, which provides a convenient area for the user to "dab" off excess product from the brush 46. The vent or vents 60 are disposed directly below the surface 66, so as to permit such product to drain back into the container interior after the applicator is withdrawn.

Also, by the invention the lower end of the shroud 56 is open, and substantially completely encloses or surrounds the brush 46. As a result, during agitation, the blender beads 34 do not strike the stem/brush unit, but instead impact against the relatively more-rugged shroud 56, thereby eliminating possible damage to the brush. This is considered to be an important feature of the present invention, especially when one considers that the magnitude of the impact from such beads is often high enough to crack a glass container, especially where no plastic coating covers the beads. Further, the open bottom of the shroud 56, in combination with the vent arrangement, permits liquid from the container to enter the shroud 56 and maintain a liquid level therein that is equal to that existing outside the shroud, since the vent or vents 60 eliminate any air-lock effects. The shroud 56 can be molded as a single, integral piece, as in Fig. 4. Preferably the upper portion of the shroud 56 has a radial flange 68 which seats against the lip of the container neck portion 28, and is sandwiched between this lip and the wall 44 of the threaded insert 40. The adjacent outer cylindrical surface of the shroud is preferably sized so as to constitute a press fit in the neck portion 28 of the container 26, such that relative movement between the shroud 56 and container 26 is eliminated. Another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in Figs. 5 and 6, showing a modified shroud construction wherein the shroud 56 of Fig. 4, which was formed as a single integral piece, is replaced by a two-piece shroud, designated 70. The latter has an annular body portion 72 which is fitted into the neck portion 28 of the container 26 of Fig. 4, and an elongate tubular portion 74 which is joined to the annular body portion 72. The shroud 70 is provided with inwardly-exposed wiper means comprising a ring-shaped wiper 76 constituted of elastomer plastic or other material exhibiting good resilience, as in the first embodiment. By the invention, the wiper 76 is disposed at the intersection, fitting or joint between the body portion 72 and tubular portion 74, and the body portion 72 has a plurality of projecting fingers 78, Fig. 6, each terminating in an outwardly extending bead-like arcuate flange 80. The flanges 80 in turn are telescopically received in an annular rim 84 of the tubular portion 74 of the shroud 70. The rim 84 has an internal annular groove 86, Fig. 5, which receives both the wiper 76 and the arcuate flanges 80. The arrangement is such that during assembly, the wiper can be first seated in the groove 86, and the fingers 78 of the body portion 72 telescopically received in the rim 84 so as to snap under the upper wall of the groove 86 and press against the wiper 76, to retain it in position. The wiper thus becomes sandwiched between the lower wall of the groove 86 and the fingers 78, as in Fig. 5. With such arrangement, significantly improved ease of assembly is realized. Referring again to Figs. 5 and 6, as in the previously described construction the stem of the applicator is tapered, and carries a brush 46 or other applicator tip at its lowermost end. In contrast to the construction of Fig. 4, the shroud 70 of Figs. 5 and 6 is closed at the bottom, forming a product reservoir which is periodically filled through the vent or fill openings defined by the spaces between the fingers 78. The product enters the openings during tilting or shaking of the container. The vent or fill openings are shown in dotted outline in Fig. 5, and designated 88. In other respects, the functioning of the shroud of Figs. 5 and 6 is similar to that of Fig. 4, and the advantage noted in connection with protecting the brush 46 or stem 42 from damage due to impact from the blender beads 34 is also realized, with this arrangement.

Still another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in Figs. 7 and 8, showing a one-piece molded plastic shroud 90 having an annular body portion 92 and an elongate tubular portion 94 integrally formed therewith. Disposed at the junction of these two portions is an annular wiper or wiper means 96, con¬ stituted of a washer of elastomer plastic material. By the invention, there is provided, at the location of the wiper 96, a plurality of annularly-disposed, spaced-apart webs 98, defining multiple windows or vents providing communication between the interior and exterior of the shroud 90. As in the previous embod¬ iment, the bottom end of the shroud 90 is closed at 102, to constitute a product-carrying well, and the brush or applicator 104 carried by the stem 106 extends into the well so as to become immersed in the liquid product to be applied. The well is periodically filled by tipping or shaking of the container, as in the case of the prior construction. In the present embodiment, the wiper 96 is received in a plurality of inwardly- facing notches 100, respectively in the webs 98, three of such notches being shown in Fig. 7.

It is to be re-emphasized that the embodiment of Figs. 7 and 8 also enjoys the important advantage of protecting the stem 106 and brush 104 from inadvertent impact by the blender beads 34, shown in the embodiment of Fig. 4.

Yet a further modified cosmetic dispenser 110 is illustrated in Fig. 9, comprising a container 112 having a neck portion 114, and a transverse bottom plate 118. As in the embodiment of Fig. 4, a plurality of blender beads 34 is included in the container, to aid in stirring the contents.

Received on the neck portion 114 is an applicator device 120 comprising a threaded insert 122, and an integrally molded or formed depending stem 124. The stem 124 has a brush 126 or other suitable tip configuration adapted to hold, by capillarity, a quantity of the liquid from the container as the applicator device 120 is withdrawn therefrom. An outer shell similar to that of Fig. 4 and indicated 50 therein, can be provided, but it is not shown in Fig. 9, however, since it forms no part of the invention, per se.

In accordance with the present invention there is provided a novel and improved tubular depending shroud 128 carried by the neck portion 114 of the container, which significantly facilitates operation and use of the dispenser. As in the previous embodiments, the shroud 128 can be molded as a single, integral piece. The upper portion of the shroud 128 has a radial flange 130 which seats against the lip of the container neck portion 114, and is sandwiched between this lip and the undersurface of the threaded insert 122. The adjacent outer cylindrical surface of the shroud is preferably sized so as to constitute a press fit in the neck portion 114 of the container, such that relative move¬ ment between the shroud and container is eliminated.

In the embodiment of Fig. 9, by the invention the shroud 128 is considerably shortened, and is provided with elongate slots or vents 132. The bottom of the shroud is closed, defining a well whose depth is such as to effect a substantially complete immersion of the brush 126 in the liquid contained therein. The well is periodically filled by shaking the container with the applicator in place, as previously noted in connection with the embodiment of Figs. 7 and 8.

The structure of Fig. 9 has the distinct advantage that by utilizing a short stem 124, there is facilitated the application of the product to the eye area, for example, by lessening the need to hold the cap and stem/brush perfectly steady. Improved ease of use is thus realizeable. In other respects, the embodi¬ ment of Fig. 9 is similar to that of Figs. 7 and 8, except that the wiper has been omitted, as an option. Yet another embodiment of the invention is shown in Fig. 10, illustrating a dispenser construction 136 especially adapted for use with nail enamel. As in the immediately preceding constructions, the shroud 138 is provided with a transverse wall 140 constituting a closed bottom, to define a product-carrying well. Access or vent openings 142 are provided adjacent the mid-point of the container neck portion, measured axially of the container, to permit the well to be filled as the container is agitated, prior to use. A conical surface 144 on the shroud provides an area against which the brush can be dabbed. A bead 146 on the stem constitutes a secondary seal of the mouth of the shroud, when the cap is assembled to the container.

In addition, a supplementary bead 148 can be provided on the inner surface of the shroud, disposed axially below the container lip, which functions as a knife-edge type product-wiping ring to further facilitate the user's dabbing of excess liquid from the brush as the latter is being withdrawn from the con¬ tainer neck. This bead is shown partially in dotted line in Fig. 10.

The applicator in this embodiment comprises a cup¬ like outer shell having internal screw threads, into which is fitted the applicator body that carries the stem, as shown in Fig. 10. Yet another embodiment is shown in Fig. 11. By the invention, the shroud 150 has an interior, cylindrical or annular wiping surface 152 inside the container neck, and the applicator stem has an external annular wiping rib or scraper bead 154 engageable with the wiping surface 152. The surface 152 thus provides a convenient area to dab the brush or applicator tip, thereby removing excess product, dispersing a globule, etc. Any residual product which does not in and of itself, drain back into the container, is automatically scraped off by the rib 154 during subsequent re¬ insertion of the applicator. The action is similar to that of a squeegee, and the scraping occurs in a down¬ ward direction in Fig. 11, and toward the vent openings in the shroud 150.

The shroud 150 is preferably press fitted into the container neck, and optionally the lip of the neck can be provided with a small, annular upstanding sealing bead (not shown) , to constitute a seal with the flange of the shroud. In practice, the upstanding bead can project to about 0.015 inches above the surrounding lip surface. In other respects, the operation of the embodiment of Fig. 11 is similar to that of the embodiment of Fig. 10.

A still further embodiment of the invention is illustrated in Fig. 12, wherein a container or bottle 158 mounts an applicator cap 160 comprising a handle and brush assembly 162 threaded onto the bottle neck 164. The cap 160 consists of a metal cup 166 in which there is secured a threaded inner cap or insert 170 having a dome portion 172 that mounts a hub 174 of the brush assembly 162. The hub 174 constitutes the top end of an applicator stem 176 whose lower end 178 carries the brush 180.

Below the hub 174 there is an external mounting flange 182 having in its underside an annular groove 184 in which there is received the top rim 186 of a shroud member 188 which surrounds the stem 176 and brush 180. The shroud member 188 has a transverse bottom wall 190, and has ports or passages 192 which surround the stem 176. At its top portion, the shroud 188 has a mounting flange 194 which underlies the flange 182 of the applicator stem. The shroud 188 is a press fit in the neck 164 of the container 158, and is retained thereby at all times. The stem 176 at its upper conical portion has a wiper bead 196 that slides in the cylindrical inner wall 198 of the shroud 188. An additional embodiment of the invention is illustrated in Figs. 13, 14 and 15. In this embodiment the stem 200 has an annular mounting flange 202 that is provided with a depending skirt portion 204 characterized by a toothed, conical under edge 206. The toothed edge 206 engages ribs 208 disposed around the upper surface of the mounting flange 210 of the shroud 212. Such engagement provides a soft lock that prevents relative turning movement between the stem 200 and the shroud 212, as during screwing movement of the cap.

In still another embodiment of the invention, as shown in Figs. 16 and 17, the stem 216 of the applicator has a depending skirt 218 provided with anti-backoff teeth 220 that can match teeth 222 on the mounting flange 224 of the shroud 226. This provides a similar action to that of the applicator shown in Figs. 13, 14 and 15.

From the above it can be seen that there have been disclosed multiple novel cosmetic dispenser constructions which are simple in structure, rugged and reliable, and which facilitate improved ease of application of the desired cosmetic product. The parts can be economically fabricated in simple mold units, and assembly is readily accomplished through the use of automated equipment, thereby keeping the manufacturing cost as low as possible.

The disclosed devices are thus seen to represent a distinct advance and improvement in the field of cosmetic dispensers. While the invention has been described in a specific form, namely for use with nail enamel and/or eyeliner liquids, the principles are equally applicable to dispensers for other liquids, such as correction fluid of the type utilized to cover or conceal undesired markings in the nature of typographical errors, drawing lines/markings, stray marks or smudges. etc. on paper, drawing board and the like.

Variations and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention.

Each and every one of the appended claims defines an aspect of the invention which is separate and distinct from all others, and accordingly it is intended that each claim be treated in this manner when examined in the light of the prior art devices in any determination of novelty or validity.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A cosmetic dispenser comprising, in combination: a) a bottle-like container for a liquid cosmetic product, said container having a neck portion and a removable sealing closure carried by said neck portion, b) an applicator carried by said sealing closure, comprising an elongate stem extending downward into the container and having a brush at its lower end, and c) an elongate tubular depending shroud carried by the neck portion of the container, said shroud surrounding said stem, d) the lower end portion of said shroud surrounding and protecting said brush against impact damage from objects exterior to the shroud.

2. A cosmetic ^"dispenser as claimed in claim 1, wherein: a) the shroud has a vent in its upper portion, disposed adjacent the neck portion of the container to provide for drain-back of cosmetic liquid into the container .

3. A cosmetic dispenser as claimed in claim 1, wherein: a) wiper means are provided, disposed in the upper interior portion of the shroud, b) said wiper means being engageable with the said stem, thereby to remove excess cosmetic liquid therefrom when the applicator is removed from the container.

4. A cosmetic dispenser as claimed in claim 3, wherein: a) the stem is tapered from a larger diameter adjacent the neck of the container to a smaller diameter at the location of the brush.

5. A cosmetic dispenser as claimed in claim 1, wherein: a) wiper means are provided, disposed in the upper interior portion of the shroud, b) said wiper means being engageable with the said stem when the applicator is inserted in the container, c) said shroud having a vent in its upper interior portion, disposed above said wiper and adjacent the neck portion of the container to provide for drain-back of cosmetic liquid into the container.

6. A cosmetic dispenser as claimed in claim 1, wherein: a) the length of the shroud and the length of the applicator stem are essentially equal, b) said shroud and stem being substantially coextensive.

7. A cosmetic dispenser as claimed in claim 1, wherein: a) the stem of the applicator is spaced inwardly from the walls of the shroud.

8. A cosmetic dispenser as claimed in claim 1, wherein: a) the shroud is frictionally fitted in the neck portion of the container.

9. A cosmetic dispenser as claimed in claim 1, wherein: a) the shroud is sealingly fitted in the neck portion of the container.

10. A cosmetic dispenser as claimed in claim 1, wherein: a) the shroud comprises an annular body portion which is fitted to the neck portion of the container, and an elongate tubular portion which is joined to said annular body portion, b) said shroud having an annular inwardly-exposed wiper means located at the joint of the body and tubular portions of the shroud.

11. A cosmetic dispenser as claimed in claim 10, wherein: a) the body portion of the shroud has a vent providing a passage between its interior and its exterior.

12. A cosmetic dispenser as claimed in claim 10, wherein: a) vent means are provided at the joint of the body and tubular portions of the shroud, and b) said inwardly-exposed wiper means are disposed at the said vent means.

13. A cosmetic dispenser as claimed in claim 10, wherein: a) the joint between the body and tubular portions of the shroud comprises a plurality of annularly- disposed spaced-apart webs, and b) said wiper means comprising an annulus which extends adjacent to the said webs.

14. A cosmetic dispenser as claimed in claim 1, wherein: a) the shroud has elongate venting slots extending from the vicinity of the neck portion of the container for an appreciable distance into the container, and b) wiper means are provided, carried by the shroud and located below the said slots.

15. A cosmetic dispenser as claimed in claim 1, wherein: a) said applicator has sealing means engageable with the interior of the shroud at the location of the neck portion of the container.

16. A cosmetic dispenser as claimed in claim 1, wherein : a) the applicator comprises an upper body portion. b) said sealing closure having a bore in which the body portion of the applicator is fitted and secured.

17. A cosmetic dispenser as claimed in claim 1, wherein: a) said shroud has an interior annular dabbing surface adjacent the neck of the container, b) said applicator has an annular wiping rib engaged with the dabbing surface of the shroud and movable axially thereof to wipe liquid product downward and into the container when the applicator is reinserted therein.

18. A cosmetic dispenser as claimed in claim 1, wherein: a) said shroud has an upper rim and a mouth portion at said rim, and has a cylindrical bore extending downward from said mouth portion to a location approximately half-way into the neck portion of the container, b) said applicator having an annular wiper rib engaged with said cylindrical bore, said rib being movable axially therein to wipe liquid cosmetic product down into the container.

19. A cosmetic dispenser comprising, in combination: a) a bottle-like container for a liquid cosmetic product, said container having a neck portion and a removable sealing closure carried by said neck portion, b) an applicator carried by said sealing closure, comprising an elongate stem extending downward into the container and having an applicator tip at its lower end, and c) a tubular depending shroud carried by the neck portion of the container, said shroud having a substantially cylindrical portion providing an interior cylindrical surface against which the applicator tip can be dabbed, to remove excess product therefrom as the applicator is being withdrawn from the container, and d) a cooperable wiper surface on the applicator, engageable with the cylindrical surface of the shroud when the applicator is inserted into the container, to scrape accumulated liquid cosmetic product from the surface and return it to the container.

20. A cosmetic dispenser as claimed in claim 19, wherein: a) said wiper surface on the applicator comprises a resilient annular scraper bead, slidingly engageable with said cylindrical surface of the shroud.

21. A cosmetic dispenser comprising, in combination: a) a bottle-like container for a liquid cosmetic product, said container having a neck portion and a removable sealing closure carried by said neck portion, b) an applicator carried by said sealing closure, comprising an elongate stem extending downward into the container and having a brush at its lower end, and c) a tubular depending shroud carried by the neck portion of the container, d) said shroud having an internal surface provided with a scraper bead, for selective engagement by the brush as the applicator is being withdrawn from the container, to remove excess product from the brush.

22. A cosmetic dispenser as claimed in claim 21, wherein: a) said internal surface is of conical configuration, and said scraper bead is disposed in said conical configuration.

23. A cosmetic dispenser comprising, in combination: a) a bottle-like container for a liquid cosmetic product, said container having a neck portion and a removable sealing closure carried by said neck portion, b) an applicator carried by said sealing closure, comprising an elongate stem extending downward into the container and having a brush at its lower end, and c) an elongate tubular depending shroud carried by the neck portion of the container, said shroud surrounding said stem, d) the lower end portion of said shroud being closed, to define a product-carrying well into which the brush is immersed, said shroud having an access opening providing communication between the well and the interior of the container, to enable the well to be periodically filled from the container when the latter is tilted or shaken.

24. A cosmetic dispenser as claimed in claim 23, wherein: a) the closed lower end portion of the shroud is disposed approximately midway between the bottom wall of the container and the neck portion thereof.

25. A liquid dispenser comprising, in combination: a) a bottle-like container for a liquid product, said container having a neck portion and a removable sealing closure carried by said neck portion, b) an applicator carried by said sealing closure, comprising an elongate stem extending downward into the container and having a brush at its lower end, and c) an elongate tubular depending shroud carried by the neck portion of the container, said shroud surrounding said stem, d) the lower end portion of said shroud surrounding and protecting said brush against impact damage from objects exterior to the shroud.

26. A liquid dispenser as set forth in claim 1, wherein : a) said sealing closure includes a metal cap and an inner insert member snugly fitted in said cap, b) said insert member carrying the said elongate stem

27. A liquid dispenser as set forth in claim 26, wherein: a) said insert member has a dome portion, b) said elongate stem having a hub which is mounted in the dome portion of the insert member.

28. A liquid dispenser as set forth in claim 27, wherein: a) said hub has a mounting flange with an annular groove in its underside, in which the top rim of the tubular shroud is received.

29. A liquid dispenser as set forth in claim 28, wherein: a) the top rim of the shroud has a flange disposed under the mounting flange of the said hub.

30. A liquid dispenser as set forth in claim 29, wherein: a) said stem has a wiper bead engageable with the inner surface of the depending shroud.

31. A liquid dispenser as set forth in claim 28, wherein: a) the flange of the hub has a toothed edge, b) the top rim of the shroud having ribs which are engageable with said toothed edge.

32. A liquid dispenser as set forth in claim 31, wherein: a) the ribs of the shroud comprise teeth which match the teeth of the toothed edge of the said mounting flange.