LI, Edwin (Lihe Block，140-505 #, Cang Lang DistrictSuzhou, Jiangsu, Jiangsu, CN)
| WHAT IS CLAIMED IS: 1. A cosmetic packaging system (1 ), comprising: a base (10) configured to contain one or more cosmetic products (P); a cover (15) having a first face (20) and a second face (25) opposite the first face; and a hinge system (50) operably connecting the cover to the base, and enabling a first pivoting of the cover around a first axis (Y), and a second pivoting of the cover about a second axis (Z) perpendicular to the first axis enabling either the first face or the second face to face the one or more cosmetic products in a closed configuration. 2. A cosmetic packaging system (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein at least one of the first face (20) and the second face (25) comprises a reflective surface (40). 3. A cosmetic packaging system (1) according to any of the preceding claims, the cover further comprising a peripheral face (30) joining the first (20) and second faces (25), wherein the hinge system (50) projects from the peripheral face. 4. A cosmetic packaging system (1) according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a first magnetic element (70) located at a distal portion of the cover (15) relative to the hinge system (50), and a second magnetic element (72) located at a corresponding portion of the base (10), wherein the first and second magnetic elements are configured to attract one another to restrain the cover from pivoting when the cover is in a closed configuration. 5. A cosmetic packaging system (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cover (15) is configured to frictionally maintain a position following pivoting around either of the first (Y) or second axes (Z). 6. A cosmetic packaging system (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein rotation around at least one of the first (Y) and the second axes (Z) is indexed to provide feedback based on the index, wherein the feedback includes a tactilely and/or audibly perceptible click. 7. A cosmetic packaging system (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cover (15) may be rotated about the second axis (Z) through at least 360 degrees. 8. A cosmetic packaging system (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the cover (15) may be rotated about the first axis (Y) through at least 90 degrees. 9. A cosmetic packaging system (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the column (55) further comprises a resilient flanged portion (58), the resilient flanged portion configured to retain the cover (15) following insertion of the column into the hinge hole (60). 10. A cosmetic packaging system (1) according to claim 9, wherein the resilient flanged portion (58) includes a taper away from a distal end of the column (55) relative to the hinge system (50). 11. A cosmetic packaging (1) system according to the preceding claim, wherein the resilient flanged portion (58) includes a flat top portion (59) so as to form a frustoconical tip. |
TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The present disclosure is related generally to cosmetic product packaging, and more particularly, cosmetic product packaging including a movable lid.
BACKGROUND
[002] Cosmetic packaging design may involve one or more considerations, such as, for example, ergonomics, aesthetics, and functionality. Achieving a multiplicity of desired design elements has not always been possible based on various issues, for example, issues related to fabrication, available components, and functional limitations.
[003] Cosmetic cases, and more particularly cosmetics compacts have been configured with a mirror for observing application of cosmetic, the mirror typically being affixed to an inside surface of a lid associated with the compact. Such a lid is often hinged, thereby enabling a user to open the lid to access the mirror while also accessing the cosmetic products inside. However, upon closing the lid, the user may no longer access either the mirror or the cosmetic products.
[004] In some situations, a user may desire to maintain access to the mirror and/or the cosmetic products inside a packaging, however, desiring to maintain a separation between the two, for example, to prevent interference (e.g., from cosmetic colors reflected in the mirror) and/or contamination, among other things. It may be possible that in some situations, a user may desire access to only the mirror following closure of the lid and would prefer not to open the package, for example, to brush one's hair or pluck one's eyebrows. In such a situation, a user may either open the packaging to use the mirror and risk exposure and/or loss of the cosmetic products, or the user may carry another object providing a mirror. Such solutions are generally undesirable to a user based at least on the added weight and potential inconvenience.
[005] Consequently, there exists a desire to produce a cosmetic packaging enabling a reflective surface to be utilized in multiple configurations, while also provided a desired level of access to products contained within the packaging. Further, it is desirable to provide such a cosmetic packaging while also providing desirable ergonomics and an aesthetic design.
[006] Publication JP 2005-304914 discloses a plurality of mirrors mounted like a triptych on the lid. A similar solution is adopted in publication GB 2 363 712 and
German patent DE 596 137. The use of a plurality of mirrors makes the compact more complex to manufacture and to use, and may result in a package of undesirable thickness.
[007] French patent FR 836 371 describes a compact in which the mirror is mounted in separately hinged manner on an outside surface of the lid. Some users may find such a design undesirable, and the mirror may be exposed to increased risk of damage.
[008] Application JP 2006-288764 discloses a compact in which the lid carrying the mirror is hinged relative to the base about a first axis, and can tilt about an axis that is perpendicular to the first. After tilting, the base conceals a portion of the mirror, thereby limiting its advantage.
[009] US patents Nos. 2 309 544 and 1 626 474 describe respective packagings each including a multi-hinge cover assembly. Such a design may be difficult to manipulate and use based on the multiple hinges and may present an undesirable aesthetic appearance..
[010] Application GB 666 592 describes a box including a lid provided with a mirror and connected to a receptacle by means of an arm, the lid having a circularly symmetrical shape.
[0 1] It is accordingly a primary object of the present disclosure to improve designs for cosmetic packaging.
SUMMARY
[012] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, a cosmetic packaging system is provided. The cosmetic packaging system includes a base configured to contain one or more cosmetic products, a cover having a first face and a second face opposite the first face, and a hinge system operably connecting the cover to the base. The hinge system enables a first pivoting of the cover around a first axis, and a second pivoting of the cover about a second axis perpendicular to the first axis enabling either the first face or the second face to face the one or more cosmetic products when the cosmetic packaging is in a closed configuration.
[013] Using such a system it may be possible to provide a cosmetic packaging enabling a cover to be positioned and utilized as desired by a user while maintaining a desired aesthetic. Further, embodiments of present disclosure enable access to various features of the cover while still providing protection to cosmetic products contained within the packaging. [014] At least one of the first face and the second face of the cosmetic
packaging system may comprise a reflective surface, and the cover may comprise a peripheral face joining the first and second faces, wherein the hinge system is
connected to the peripheral face.
[015] The cosmetic packaging system may include a first magnetic element located at a distal portion of the cover, and a second magnetic element located at a corresponding portion of the base. The first and second magnetic elements can be configured to attract one another to restrain the cover from pivoting when the cover is in a closed configuration.
[016] According to some embodiments, the cover of the cosmetic packaging is configured to frictionally maintain a position following pivoting around either of the first or second axes. Moreover, rotation around at least one of the first and the second axes can be indexed.
[017] The cosmetic packaging may include a feedback system configured to provide feedback based on the index. Such feedback may include a tactilely
perceptible click and/or an audible alert.
[018] Elements of the cosmetic packaging system such as the cover and/or the base can be elongate and present a longitudinal axis, the longitudinal axis of the cover may be perpendicular to the first axis and parallel to (or even coincident with) the second axis.
[019] In a front view (e.g., from a location above the first face or below the base), the cosmetic packaging system may have a shape associated with an outline of the base, which is selected from one of a polygon, a circle, an oval, and a scallop. Further, in the front view the cover may include an outline of substantially the same shape as the base.
[020] The base can comprise a compartment configured to contain one or more applicators. The base may also comprise a sealing member associated with the base configured to cause a seal when the cover is in a closed configuration.
[021] The cover of the packaging system may be rotated about the second axis through at least 360 degrees, and about the first axis through at least 90 degrees.
[022] The cover can comprise a hinge hole configured to receive a column, or alternatively, the cover may comprise the column with the hinge hole present within hinge system. The hinge system can further comprise a hinge pin and a column, the column configured for insertion into the hinge hole. The column can be configured to snap-fasten the cover to the hinge system upon insertion through the hinge hole. In some embodiments, the hinge hole and column can also be serrated. The serrations may be configured to cooperate to produce a force resisting pivoting. The column can include a resilient flanged portion, the resilient flanged portion configured to retain the cover following insertion of the column into the hinge hole, for example after snap fastening. According to some embodiments, the resilient flanged portion can include a taper away from a distal end of the column relative to the hinge system. The resilient flanged portion can include a flat top portion so as to form a frustoconical tip.
[023] The first face may include a first mirror and the second face may include a second mirror. At least one of the first mirror and the second mirror can be concave. Further at least one of the first mirror and the second mirror may be plane.
[024] The cover can share at least one identical aspect with the base, and the at least one aspect can be selected from one of color, texture, and sheen. The identical aspect may result from the use of the same material.
[025] In some embodiments, the cosmetic packaging system is void of any electronic components.
[026] According to some embodiments, the cover may be removably affixed to the hinge system, and in some embodiments, may be removably affixed using permanent magnets.
[027] Embodiments of the present disclosure may further be directed to a method for using a packaging system according to the packaging system described above. The method may include rotating the cover about the first axis of rotation in a direction away from the base to enable access to the section configured to contain one or more cosmetic products, rotating the cover about the second axis of rotation through 180 degrees to change an orientation of the first face, rotating the cover about the first axis of rotation toward the base to disable access to the section configured to contain one or more cosmetic products.
[028] Embodiments of the present disclosure may further be directed to a cosmetic applicator system. The cosmetic applicator system may include a base configured to contain one or more cosmetic products, an applicator having a applicator element on a first face and a second applicator element on a second face, and a hinge system operably connecting the applicator to the base, and enabling a first pivoting of the applicator around a first axis of rotation, and a second pivoting of the applicator about a second axis of rotation parallel to the first and second faces such that either the first applicator element or the second applicator may optionally be exposed for using the exposed applicator element. [029] Additional objects and advantages of the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows.
[030] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the present disclosure, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[031] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate a number of exemplary features of non-limiting embodiments of the disclosure and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. In the drawings,
[032] Figure 1 A is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a packaging in a "cover closed" configuration according to embodiments of the present disclosure;
[033] Figure 1 B is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a packaging following a pivoting of the cover about a first axis according to embodiments of the present disclosure;
[034] Figure 1 C is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a packaging following a pivoting of the cover about a second axis according to embodiments of the present disclosure;
[035] Figure 1D is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a packaging in an alternative "cover closed" configuration according to embodiments of the present disclosure;
[036] Figure 1 E is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary base illustrating a sealing member configured to cooperate with the cover according to embodiments of the present disclosure;
[037] Figure 1 F is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary hinge wing and pin configuration according to embodiments of the present disclosure;
[038] Figure 2A is a cross-sectional illustration of an exemplary hinge system consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure;
[039] Figure 2B is an illustration of an exemplary hinge column consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure;
[040] Figure 2C is an illustration of an exemplary hinge hole consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure; [041] Figure 2D is a cross-sectional illustration of an exemplary column inserted within an exemplary hinge hole of a cover according to embodiments of the present disclosure;
[042] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary closure mechanism consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure;
[043] Figure 4 is a flow chart depicting an exemplary mode of operating embodiments of the present disclosure;
[044] Figure 5 is another embodiment of a cosmetic packaging according to the present disclosure; and
[045] Figures 6A-F illustrate exemplary shapes associated with a packaging according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
MORE DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[046] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the present disclosure, as claimed.
[047] Cosmetic packaging systems 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure include a base 10, a cover 15, and a hinge system 50, among other things. Based on the presence of an operable connection between base 10 and cover 15 via hinge system 50, cover 15 may be enabled to be pivoted about a first axis Y and rotated around a second axis Z such that a first face 20 or a second face 25 of cover 5 may face cosmetic products within base 10 when cosmetic packing system 1 is in a closed configuration. Particularly, hinge system 50 of the present disclosure may be different from a ball and socket type connection.
[048] According to some embodiments, when packaging 1 is in a closed configuration, a longitudinal axis X associated with base 10 may be perpendicular to the first axis Y and parallel to the second axis Z in a closed configuration such that either first face 20, or second face 25 may effect a closure of packaging 1 with, for example, no peripheral part of cover 15 extending greater than 1 cm away from base 10 when seen in a front view.
[049] Figure 1 A is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a packaging 1. As shown, a cover 15 having a first face 20 and a second face 25, may be positioned such that second face 25 is exposed and facing up in a closed configuration with a base 10 resting on a bottom surface 37 (i.e., plane of second face 25 parallel to axis X and cover 15 superposing base 10). In addition to base 10, cover 5, and hinge system 50, packaging 1 may include a closure system 80 (shown in Figure 3), among other things. Packaging 1 may be configured to contain and package any type of cosmetic product and/or associated applicators 47. For example, packaging 1 may be configured to contain one or more liquids, gels, powders, compacted cakes, and/or any combination thereof, among other things. Such cosmetic products may include, for example, care products and/or make-up products configured for application to a user's skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes, as desired.
[050] Figure 1 B is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of packaging 1 following pivoting of cover 15 about the first axis Y relative to base 10, via hinge system 50, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, cover 15 may be pivoted about the first axis Y from a point where a plane of cover 15 is substantially parallel to axis X to a point where a plane of cover 15 is substantially perpendicular to axis X. Moreover, in some embodiments, cover 15 may be pivoted about the first axis Y from a point where a plane of cover 15 is substantially parallel to axis X and covering base 10, to a point where a plane of cover 15 is also substantially parallel to axis X, but where cover 15 does not cover base 10.
[051] Base 10 may present a top surface 35, a bottom surface 37, and side surfaces 39, among other things. Side surfaces 39 may be affixed (e.g., perpendicularly) to top surface 35 and bottom surface 37, thereby forming a container configured to contain one or more cosmetic products P, and/or one or more applicator repositories 45 configured to receive one or more applicators 47 for use with cosmetic products P, (e.g., brushes, pads, flocked elements, etc). At least one of side surfaces 39 may include a recess 33 enabling access to a pull point on cover 15. In some embodiments, recess 33 may be positioned on base 10 opposite to hinge system 10.
[052] According to some embodiments, the container formed may be configured to receive a tray (e.g., a removable tray) containing the one or more cosmetic products Pi. In such embodiments, the tray may be configured to be loaded with cosmetic product and inserted fixedly or removably, into the container of base 10.
[053] As shown in Figure 1 E, top surface 35, or other suitable portion of base 10, may include one or more sealing members 17 (e.g., a flange, a gasket of elastomeric material, etc.) around its periphery configured to sealingly engage either second face 25 or first face 20 of cover 5 upon closure thereof. For example, where desirable to limit exposure to air for the one or more cosmetic products P,, a flexible sealing member 17 (e.g., elastomeric tubing) may extend around a perimeter of top surface 35. A thickness associated with the flexible sealing member may be such that regardless of which face (i.e., first face 20 or second face 25) is oriented to face top surface 35, the flexible sealing member may engage the face and maintain a substantially airtight seal.
[054] Base 10 may be fabricated from any suitable material, for example plastics, metals, paper products, and any desirable combination thereof, and may include portions of a hinge system 50 (e.g., hinge wing 51 ). For example, in some embodiments, base 10 may comprise an injection molded plastic material (e.g., acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polystyrene, etc.) presenting a substantially rigid wall structure (e.g., rigid bottom surface 37 and side surfaces 29), and hinge wing 51 integrally molded therewith. According to some embodiments, hinge wing 51 may not be integrally formed with base 10, and may instead be affixed to base 10, or where desired, cover 15, via any suitable method (e.g., adhesives, fasteners, etc.)
[055] While discussed primarily within the present disclosure in the context of a rectangular shape, base 10 may be fabricated in any desirable shape to provide a desired aesthetic quality, as highlighted at Figures 6A-F. For example, when viewed perpendicularly (e.g., from a location above the top surface 35, along axis Z), base 10 may have an outline shaped as a polygon, a circle, an oval, or a scallop. Further, it may be possible to combine one or more shapes in selecting a desired aesthetic for base 10 (e.g., half rectangle half oval).
[056] Cover 15 may present a first face 20, a second face 25, a peripheral face 30, and a hinge hole 60 (shown in Figures 2A and 2B), among others. First face 20 and second face 25 may be aligned substantially parallel to one another. In some
embodiments, each of first face 20 and second face 25 may have an axis of symmetry parallel with second axis Z contained within at a mid-plane between first face 20 and second face 25. First face and second face 20 and 25 may or may not be substantially flat, and where desired, various surface features (e.g., textures, images, contours, gloss, etc.) may be provided on first face 20 and/or second face 25, for example to provide a desired aesthetic quality. According to some embodiments, cover 15 may share at least one identical aspect with base 10, for example, to maintain a desired aesthetic quality. For example, color, texture, and/or sheen may be substantially identical between cover 5 and base 10, so that when cosmetic packaging 1 is in a closed configuration, a coherent aesthetic for cosmetic packaging 1 is maintained. [057] Further, peripheral face 30 may be affixed (e.g., formed integrally) substantially perpendicularly to first and second faces 20 and 25, and may also provide at least a portion suitable for utilization as an operable mounting point between hinge system 50 and base 10 to enable pivoting of cover 15 about at least two axes. For example, in some embodiments, hinge hole 60 may be provided through peripheral surface 30, thereby enabling hinge column 55 to be inserted and snap-fastened there through. Hinge system 50 will be discussed in greater detail below with reference to Figures 2A-D. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that first, second, and peripheral faces 20, 25, and 30, may be affixed other than perpendicularly, as desired, e.g., to meet a particular design aesthetic, while providing a desired mounting point for hinge system 50.
[058] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, first face 20 and/or second face 25 may include a reflective surface 40 (e.g., a mirror, an electronic display screen, etc.) enabling a user to view a reflection, for example during application of a cosmetic. Reflective surface 40 may be affixed to first face 20 and/or second face 25 via any suitable means, e.g., adhesive, fasteners, bezel, etc. Further, first face 20 and/or second face 25 may include one or more recessed portions corresponding to a profile of reflective surface 40. For example, a recess may be provided in first face 20 and/or second face 25, a periphery of the recess substantially corresponding to a periphery of a reflective surface to be placed within the recess. Thus, the reflective surface may be made flush with an upper portion of the recess, and, for example, a bezel may be placed surrounding a portion of the reflective surface to effect a restraining thereof. This may be desirable, for example, to enable aesthetic design elements.
[059] According to some embodiments, a reflective surface 40 may be present on each of first face 20 and second face 25. For example, one of first face 20 and second face 25 may comprise a concave mirror resulting in magnification of an image, while a second mirror may be plane to provide a substantially unmagnified image.
[060] Further, cosmetic packaging system 1 may include one or more lighting systems (e.g., LED, incandescent, etc.)
[061] According to some embodiments, cosmetic packaging system 1 may be void of any electronic components. Alternatively, according to other embodiments of the present disclosure, it may be desirable to implement an electronic display screen (e.g., an LCD screen) as reflective surface 40 (e.g., via reflective and/or transflective LCD screens, light emitting diode (LED) screens, etc.). Such a screen may provide, for example, tactile functionality, in some embodiments, and may enable integration of, for example, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mobile phone (e.g., smartphone), and/or a media player (e.g., .mp3 and/or video player) with packaging 1 , among other things. In such a configuration, electronics (e.g., one or more of processors, memory, loudspeakers, microphones, circuits, etc.) may be provided, for example, between first face 20 and second face 25, to enable desired functionality (e.g., scheduling, phone calls, games and entertainment, among others). Further, software may be provided (e.g., for execution by the processor) to enhance reflectivity of the screen to improve performance as reflective surface (e.g., for activating/deactivating backlights, for coloring screen pixels, etc). Alternatively, such a screen may include an anti-reflective coating, with reflective surface 40 optionally provided on the other face of cover 15 that does not include the screen.
[062] Cover 15 may be configured to rotate to a point where a plane of first face 20 and a plane of second face 25 are substantially parallel to axis X and superpose base 10, such that first face 20 or second face 25 of cover 15 may engage with components of base 10 (e.g., top surface 35, closure system 80, etc.) to substantially close the container of base 10. Therefore, cover 15 may be shaped to substantially conform to a shape of base 10, such that, upon closure of cover 15, i.e., via pivoting, a covering (with or without sealing) may be formed to prevent access to the contents of base 10.
[063] Figure 1 C is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of packaging 1 following a first pivoting of cover 15 about a first axis Y and a second pivoting of cover 15 about a second axis Z parallel to first and second faces 20 and 25, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments pivoting about the first axis Y may be enabled through at least 90 degrees, through at least 180 degrees, and/or through at least 270 degrees, for example. Further pivoting about the second axis Z may be enabled over at least 180 degrees, and in some embodiments through at least 360 degrees, depending on a pivoted position of cover 15 about first axis Y. In some cases rotation/pivoting of cover 15 about the second axis may be unlimited, i.e., rotation enabled for as many 360 degree rotations as desired by a user, e.g., where cover 15 is first pivoted about first axis Y to between 90 and 270 degrees from top face 35.
[064] Pivoting about the first and second axes may enable cover 15 to be closed with first face 20 or second face 25 in an exposed position above or below base 10. In other words, based on the ability to pivot about the first and second axes, either first face 20 or second face 25 may cover base 10, while the face not covering base 10 may be exposed for use. Figure 1 D is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of packaging 1 in a closed configuration, wherein second face 25 is exposed, while first face 20 superposes base 10.
[065] Pivoting of cover 15 about the first axis Y and/or the second axis Z may be indexed such that, upon pivoting of cover 15, a particular incremental angular distance is covered during pivoting. In other words, cover 15 may be indexed to pivot in a particular angular increment, for example, 3, 5, 10, 14.4, 15, 20, or any suitable number of degrees. Further a user may be made aware of each increment via, for example, feedback that may be provided during pivoting/rotation. Such feedback may take the form of, for example, an audible click, snap, beep, etc. and/or a tactile click or other suitable tactile sensation, among other things.
[066] Moreover, packaging 1 may be configured such that, following pivoting of cover 15 about the first and/or second axes, a position of cover 15 can be maintained. For example, a user may pivot cover 15 about the first axis Y to a position where first and second faces 20 and 25 of cover 15 are parallel to axis X, but where cover 15 is not superposed over base 10 (i.e., 180 degrees from top surface 35). Cover 15 may then remain substantially in this position without application of additional external forces (e.g., user restraining cover 15). Further, the user may then pivot cover 15 through, for example, 60 degrees about the second axis Z parallel to first and second faces 20 and 25, whereupon cover 15 may remain substantially as placed by the user without application of additional external forces.
[067] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, pivoting/rotation, indexing, and position maintenance of cover 15 are enabled by hinge system 50, which operably connects cover 15 to base 10.
[068] Figure 2A is a perspective partial cross-sectional illustration of an exemplary hinge system 50 consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure.
Hinge system 50 may include one or more hinge wings 51 , hinge barrel 53, hinge column 55, and hinge hole 60 (present in cover 15).
[069] Figure 1 F is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary hinge wing 51 and hinge pin 63 configuration according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Hinge wing 51 may be configured to provide support to hinge barrel 53, for example, via one or more hinge pins 63, and to enable a pivoting of cover 15 about the first axis Y. Therefore, hinge pins 63 configured to cooperate with hinge barrel 53 may extend from a surface of hinge wing 51. It may be desirable, in some embodiments, to incorporate hinge pins 63 with hinge barrel 53 to enable cooperation with hinge wing 51 to enable pivoting of cover 15 about the first axis Y, for example.
[070] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, one or more hinge wings 51 may be integrally formed with base 10 (e.g., injection molded), and may, for example, extend away (e.g., perpendicularly) from a distal portion of top surface 35. Depending on desired design criteria, it may be possible to position hinge wing 51 at other locations, and possibly extending away at other angles relative to base 10. For example, hinge wing 51 may be located on a back portion of base 10, a side portion of base 10, or any other suitable location enabling a desired pivoting of cover 15 relative to base 10 about axis Y.
[071] Hinge wing 51 may include one or more holes (e.g., blind holes) configured to receive hinge pins 63 for cooperation with hinge barrel 53. In some embodiments, such holes may be include serrations (e.g., internally splined), as may the hinge pins 63 configured for insertion therein. These serrations may cooperate to provide pivotal indexing as well as tactile sensation to a user performing the rotation. Moreover, the serrations may cooperate to provide resistance to rotation, which may assist in position maintenance associated with cover 15 following a pivoting. One of skill in the art will recognize that other mechanisms may be provided to perform functionality related to indexing of rotation and position maintenance. For example, it may be desired to include a visual indicator of rotation in combination with frictional forces associated with hinge system 50, and/or a ratchet type system. Such
embodiments are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.
[072] Hinge barrel 53 may be configured to interact with hinge wing 51 to enable pivoting of cover 15 about the first axis Y, while also providing support to hinge column 55. For example, hinge barrel 53 may include one or more holes configured to receive hinge pins 63 associated within hinge wing 51 , thereby enabling pivoting relative to hinge wing 51. Depending on a configuration of hinge system 50, such holes may include serrations (e.g., splined), or have other similar features enabling cooperation between hinge wings 51 , hinge barrel 53, and/or any hinge pins 63 present. According to some embodiments, hinge barrel may include hinge pins 63 configured to cooperate with holes located in hinge wings 51 for example.
[073] Figure 2B is an illustration of an exemplary hinge column 55, which may be associated with hinge barrel 53. Hinge column 55 may be configured to cooperate with hinge barrel 53 and hinge hole 60 associated with cover 15, to enable rotation about an axis parallel to first and second faces 20 and 25. Therefore, hinge column 55 may be of any shape suitable for enabling rotation (e.g., cylindrical).
[074] In some embodiments, hinge column 55 may be integral with hinge barrel 53, for example, integrally molded. In other embodiments, hinge column may be assembled with hinge barrel 53. For example, a receiving hole configured to receive a portion of hinge column 55 may be provided in hinge barrel 53, e.g., a threaded receiving hole cooperating with threads present on hinge column 55. Further, in some embodiments a receiving hole in hinge barrel 53 may include serrations 65 configured to cooperate with serrations 66 present on hinge column 55 via, for example, a press fit or spring pin type connection. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other such configurations may be implemented without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, hinge column 55 may be of any shape (triangular, square, etc.) and configured to engage with a sleeve operably inserted within hinge barrel 53, for example, the sleeve rotating in a bearing race.
[075] Hinge column 55 may include features enabling indexing during rotation, and position maintenance following rotation/pivoting of cover 15. For example, in some embodiments, hinge column 55 may have a texture (e.g., splines, scalloping, or undulations of relief portions) about its exterior surface. Such a texture may be configured to cooperate with a corresponding texture within hinge hole 60, present in cover 15 to provide indexing and position maintenance. In some embodiments, for enabling indexing and position maintenance system, it may be possible to include, for example, one or more ratchet mechanisms (e.g., racks, pinions, and pawls) associated with hinge barrel 53, and/or hinge column 55, and/or hinge hole 60.
[076] Hinge column 55 may include a retainer 56 comprising one or more resilient portions 57, resilient portions 57 configured to be inserted through hinge hole 60 to participate in retaining cover 15 with hinge column 55 (e.g., snap-fastening cover 15 to hinge system 50). Each of resilient portions 57 may further include a flanged section 58, having, for example, a greatest radius of curvature (e.g., at a base of flanged section 58) greater than a related radius associated with hinge hole 60 forming a lip around hinge column 55. Each flange section 58 may also present a tapered portion and a flat top portion 59, thereby forming a frustoconical tip for retainer 56, for example. Such a formation may enable a compression of resilient portions 57 upon insertion through hinge hole 60, and corresponding reduction in radius of curvature associated with retainer 56, for example. Following such insertion, and upon retainer 56 reaching an opposite side of hinge hole 60, resilient portions 57 may cause retainer 56 to substantially return to their previous, uncompressed positions. Flange portions 58 may then, act to retain hinge column 55 within hinge hole 60, and thereby cover 15 to hinge system 50. In other words, in some embodiments, cover 15 may be snap- fastened to hinge system 50 and, therefore, to base 10.
[077] Figure 2D is a cross-sectional illustration of an exemplary hinge column 55 inserted within hinge hole 60 of cover 15, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, serrations 66 associated with hinge column 55 may cooperate with serrations 65 of hinge hole 60 to provide, for example, indexing and forces resistive to rotation, among others, while enabling rotation of cover 15 through at least 360 degrees.
[078] According to some embodiments, hinge column 55 and hinge hole 60 may instead be implemented as a protrusion 55' and a hollow 60'. For example, as shown at Figure 2E and 2F, hinge barrel 53 may include an at least partially spherical protrusion 55' in conjunction with a magnet material 94 (e.g., a permanent magnet). In some embodiments, hinge barrel 53 (e.g., a permanent magnet inserted within a recess of hinge barrel 53) may comprise magnetic material 94. Any suitable configuration for magnetic material may be used (e.g., protrusion 55' itself may comprise the magnetic material).
[079] Further, cover 15 may include an at least partially spherical hollow 60' configured to interact with protrusion 55'. In addition, hollow 60' may be associated with magnetic material (e.g., a permanent magnet mounted within cover 15) configured to cause forces of attraction with the magnetic material associated with protrusion 55'. Therefore, cover 15 may be mounted to hinge system 50 via hollow 60' and protrusion 55'. Forces associated with the related magnets may then act to retain protrusion 55' within hollow 60'.
[080] Figure 3 is a perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary closure mechanism 80, consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure. Closure mechanism 80 may be configured to act between cover 15 and base 0 to provide forces resistive to rotation, i.e., forces resisting opening of packaging 1. For example, closure mechanism 80 may include two or more magnetic elements 70 and 72 (e.g., permanent magnets, ferrous materials, etc.) configured to interact with one another to cause such forces (e.g., magnetic attraction).
[081] According to some embodiments, magnetic elements 70 and 72 may be mounted within recessed portions of case 10 and cover 15, particularly where it is desired to maintain a design aesthetic. For example, a ferrous material may be provided in a portion of base 10 in an area not readily visible (e.g., a hollow created from an internal area), close to top surface 35, but not exposed. Further a permanent magnet may be provided in a similarly concealed area (e.g., a hollow formed within cover 15), for example, equidistant between first face 20 and second face 25. In such a configuration, it may be possible for the permanent magnet present in cover 5 to interact with the ferrous material present in base 10, regardless of whether first face 20 or second face 25 is oriented downward to cover base 10. Further, it may be desirable to include the permanent magnet within base 10 and the ferrous material within cover 15, and/or two magnets, etc. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that all such embodiments are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.
[082] Figure 4 is a flow chart 400 depicting an exemplary mode of operating embodiments of the present disclosure. For purposes of discussing the steps of flow chart 400, it is assumed that a packaging 1 is initially provided in a "closed"
configuration as shown in Figures 1A and 1 D. A user may first pivot cover 15 away from base 10 about a first axis Y (step 405). For example, a user may utilize recess 33 to achieve a point for force application on cover 15 (e.g., by insertion of a finger within recess 33). A user may thus apply a force to pivot cover 15 through a desired angle (e.g., 90 degrees). Where a particular embodiment includes an indexing of the rotation about the first axis Y, a predetermined increment may be provided. For example, where an increment about the first axis Y is desired to be 18 degrees, a user may experience 5 audible and/or tactile "clicks" while rotating cover through 90 degrees. Further, the position at which the user places cover 15 may be maintained via hinge system 50 (e.g., through frictional forces and/or additional features).
[083] A user may then rotate cover 15 through a desired angle (e.g., 180 degrees) about a second axis Z, the second axis Z being parallel to first and second faces 20 and 25 (step 407). For example, where a rotational increment of cover 15 about the second axis Z is desired to be 18 degrees, a user may experience 10 audible and/or tactile "clicks" while rotating cover through 180 degrees. Further, upon completion of such a rotation, first face 20 may replace a position previously occupied by second face 25, and vice versa, while the position of cover 15 may be maintained. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that rotational increments described herein are exemplary only. Such increments may be configured as desired, for example, 1 degree, 3 degrees, 10 degrees, 14.4 degrees, 12 degrees, 18 degrees, or any desirable increment. [084] The user may then pivot cover 15 back toward base 10 about the first axis Y, and over the previously pivoted angular distance (e.g., 90 degrees) (step 410).
During such a rotation, when indexed, the user may again experience 5 clicks. Cover 15 may once again be positioned in a "closed" configuration.
[085] In some embodiments, without interaction from the user, closure mechanism 80 may be engaged between cover 15 and base 10, with either first face 20 or second face 25 remaining exposed on the top of packaging 1 (step 415). For example, magnetic elements 70 and 72 of closure mechanism may be mounted in a hidden location within cover 15 and case 10 to cooperate to cause a force resistive to inadvertent pivoting about the first axis Y (e.g., act as a clasp).
[086] The present disclosure is not limited to the examples described above. For example, as shown at Figure 5, first face 20 of cover 15 may comprise a first applicator element 91 (e.g., a foam, brush, and/or pad) while second face 25 of cover 15 may comprise a second applicator element 92 (e.g., a finishing surface). Either first or second face 20 and 25 may comprise no applicator element, even when present on the other face.
[087] Further, packaging 1 may include a handle 90 (e.g., affixed to base 10) or other suitable portion configured to enable a user to manipulate and operate packaging 1 and the applicator element(s) 91 and/or 92 on an exposed face to perform a cosmetic procedure. Handle 90 may be removable, and may provide other functionality (e.g., vibration).
[088] Based on such a configuration, a user may pivot applicator 91 (e.g., an initial applicator) into an exposed position while covering cosmetic product within base 10. Following application of the cosmetic product, a user may pivot applicator element 92 (e.g., a finishing surface) into an exposed position such that applicator element 91 covers base 10. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that such embodiments are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.
[089] Throughout the description, including the claims, the term "comprising a" should be understood as being synonymous with "comprising at least one" unless otherwise stated. In addition, any range set forth in the description, including the claims should be understood as including its end value(s) unless otherwise stated. Specific measurement values for described elements should be understood to be within generally accepted manufacturing or industry tolerances, and any use of the terms substantially and/or approximately should be understood to mean falling within such generally accepted tolerances. [090] Although the present disclosure herein has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the present disclosure. It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative
embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
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