CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0Θ01] The present appiication claims the benefit of and priority to US

Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/365,910, filed on July 22, 2016, titled EXPANDABLE MASCARA, and to US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/471 ,701 , filed on March 15, 2017, titled INFLATABLE MASCARA, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNOLOGY FIELD

[0002] The present application relates generally to a mascara applicators, and in particular, to a shape changing mascara applicator,

BACKGROUND

[0003] Devices exist for applying cosmetic or medicinal products to a body. Existing applicators are typically designed to apply mascara to ey elashes in one technique. For example, one applicator may have short, densely arrayed bristles and may be employed for applying mascara to eyelashes to achieve a desired effect (e.g., to volumize eyelashes). Another applicator may have longer, less densely arrayed bristles for applying mascara to eyelashes to achieve an alternative desired effect (e.g., to separate and define eyelashes). Still another applicator may be smaller so as to apply mascara to small areas (e.g., to corners of the eye).

[0Θ04] However, existing applicators have limited functionality, and are not conducive to applying mascara to eyelashes using different techniques and/or to different regions of the eye. Accordingly, there remains a need in the art for improved applicator systems that allow application of mascara using different techniques and/or adjustments to achieve multiple desired effects.

SUMMARY

[0005] This disclosure provides design, material, manufacturing methods, and use alternatives for cosmetic applicators. [Θ006] In a first example, an expandable applicator system for applying a product to a surface may comprise an expandable implement. The expandable implement may comprise a hollow stem, defining a lumen and having a first end and a second end, a tube having a first end and a second end, the tube disposed within the lumen of the hollow stem, an applicator affixed adjacent to the bottom end of the hollow stem and including a brush and an expandable tip, an interior surface of the expandable tip in fluid communication with a lumen of the tube, a cap including a depressible panel, the cap affixed adjacent to the top end of the hollow stem, and a flexible fluid chamber disposed within the cap and adjacent to the depressible panel and in fluid communication with the lumen of the tube. Actuation of the depressible panel may be configured to move the expandable tip of the applicator from a deflated state to an inflated state.

[Θ007] In another example, an expandable applicator system for applying a product to a surface may include an expandable implement having a hollow stem defining a lumen and having a top end and a bottom end and an applicator affixed adjacent to the bottom end of the hollow stem and including a brush and an expandable tip. An interior surface of the expandable tip in fluid communication with the lumen of the hollow stem. A cap including one or more depressible panels may be affixed adjacent to the top end of the hollow stem and a fluid chamber may be disposed within the cap and in fluid communication with the lumen of the hollow- stem. Actuation of the one or more depressible panels may be configured to move the expandable tip of the applicator from a deflated state to an inflated state.

[0008] In another example, an expandable applicator sy stem for applying a product to a surface may comprise an expandable implement. The expandable implement may include a hollow stem defining a lumen and having a top end and a bottom end. A splayed component defining a lumen and having a plurality of movable fingers may be affixed to the bottom end of the hollow stem. A plunger may be slidably disposed in the lumen of the hollow stem and the lumen of the splayed component. An applicator may be affixed adjacent to the bottom end of the hollow- stem and including a brush and an expandable tip. Actuation of the plunger may be configured to move the expandable tip of the applicator from a first state to a second state. [0009] The above summary of some example embodiments is not intended to describe each disclosed embodiment or every implementation of the present disclosure. The Figures, and Detailed Description, which follow, more particularly exemplify these embodiments .

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The foregoing and other aspects of the present invention are best understood from the following detailed description when read in connection with the accompanying drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there is shown in the drawings embodiments that are presently preferred, it being understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the specific instramentaiities disclosed. Included in the drawings are the following Figures:

[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective exploded view of an illustrative applicator system;

[0012] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the inflatable implement of FIG. 1 ;

[0013] FIG. 3 A is side view of the inflatable implement of FIG. 1 in a first configuration;

[0014] FIG. 3B is a side view of the inflatable implement of FIG. 1 is a second configuration;

[0015] FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of the inflatable implement of FIG. 3 A, taken at line A-A;

[0016] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the inflatable implement of FIG . 3B, taken at line B-B;

[0017] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an illustrative applicator system;

[0018] FIG. 6 is a perspective exploded view of the illustrative applicator system of FIG. 5;

[0019] FIG. 7 A is side view of the inflatable implement of FIG. 5 in a first configuration; [Θ020] FIG. 7B is side view of die inflatable implement of FIG. 5 in a second configuration;

[0021] FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view of the inflatable implement of FIG. 7A, taken at line C-C;

[ΘΘ22] FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of the inflatable implement of FIG. 7B, taken at line D-D:

[0023] FIG. 9 is a side view of another illustrative expandable implement;

[0024] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the expandable implement of FIG. 9, taken at line E-E;

[0025] FIG. 11 is a blown up cross-sectional view of a portion of the expandable implement of FIG. 9;

[0026] FIG. 12 is an exploded view of a portion of the of the expandable implement of FIG. 9;

[0027] FIG. 13 is an exploded view- of the of the expandable implement of FIG. 9; and

[0028] FIG. 14 is a partially exploded view of a portion of the expandable implement of FIG. 9.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0029] This application describes applicator systems and inflatable implements comprising an applicator that is selectively expandable or inflatable. By virtue of having an expandable implement, devices according to this disclosure are adaptable to apply various different cosmetic, medicinal, and/or personal care products to a body- utilizing individual portions of the inflatable implement to achieve multiple desired effects. For example, a user may apply mascara to a central region of the eyelashes while the applicator is in an un -expanded configuration, or a user may apply mascara to a corner portion of the eyelashes while the applicator is in an expanded configuration. [ΘΘ30] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an illustrative applicator system 10 in an uncoupled arrangement. The system may include a reservoir assembly 12 with a substantially tube-shaped reservoir 14 for containing a cosmetic, medicinal, personal care, or other product. The applicator system 10 may include a cap 16 configured to releasably couple to the reservoir assembly 12. As will be describe in more detail below, the cap 16 may be affixed to an end of an inflatable implement 20. The cap 16 may include one or more panels 18 configured to move the inflatable implement between a deflated state and an inflated state. In some cases, the cap 16 may include two panels positioned approximately 180° from one another, although this is not required. The panel 18 may be formed from, a material that is more flexible or compliant than the remainder of the cap 16 such that the panel 18 can be squeezed or depressed, as will be described in more detail below.

[ΘΘ31 ] The reservoir assembly 12 and cap 16 may be formed of plastic (e.g., polypropylene (PP), acryionitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyoxymethylene (POM)), glass, or any other suitable material, for containing a cosmetic, medicinal, personal care, or other product. Further, while reservoir assembly 12 and cap 16 are illustrated as a substantially tube-shaped assembly, a variety of receptacle shapes and types are contemplated. For example, the receptacle may be rectangular shaped, triangular shaped or any other suitable receptacle shape.

[0032] The inflatable implement 20 may include a hollow stem 22 having a top end 24 and a bottom end 26, The bottom end 26 of the stem 22 may have an applicator 28 coupled thereto. In some cases, the applicator 28 may be disposed over or otherwise surround the bottom end 26 of the stem 22. The applicator 28 may comprise a brush 30 fixed to the bottom, end 26 of hollow stem 22, and an expandable or inflatable tip 32 distal to the brush 30. In some cases, the inflatable tip 32 may be a unitary structure with the brush 30. In oilier cases, the inflatable tip 32 may be formed as a separate structure from the brash 30 and attached thereto. The applicator 28 may comprise a elastically expandable tip or any other expandable tip 32. Further, while the brush 30 is illustrated in FIG. 1 as being generally a shaft-shaped unit of bristles for application of a product such as mascara, the inflatable applicators according to this disclosure may also be used to apply other products, such as foundation, blush, or other cosmetic products and may take on other shapes, such as having a triangular cross section, a square cross section, a bulb shape, or the like. Likewise, while the tip 32 (see, for example FIG. 3B) is illustrated here as being expandable into a generally bulb-shaped unit of bristles for application of a product such as mascara, foundation, blush, or other cosmetic products, other shapes are also contemplated. For example, the tip 32 may be mohawk-shaped, knife-shaped, rnace- shaped or the like. Various embodiments of the applicator 28 are also contemplated. For example, the applicator 28 may comprise a brush, a sponge, and/or flocking.

[0033] The inflatable implement 20 is further shown to have a cap 16 securely disposed on the top end 24 of stem 22. The cap 16 may include one or more depressible or squeezable panels 18 that are configured to act as an actuation mechanism to move the inflatable tip 32 between a deflated or unexpanded state (FIG. 3 A) and an inflated or expanded state (FIG. 3B). However, alternative actuation mechanisms are conceptualized. For example, the actuation mechanism may be a rolling mechanism, a push button, a lever, a dial, a rotatable portion of cap, or a switch mechanism.

[0034] The inflatable implement 20 may be reieasably coupled to a threaded collar 34 of the reservoir assembly 12. For example, the cap 16 may include internal threads 36 (see, for example, FIGS. 4A and 4B) configured to threadably engage the collar 34. However, other coupling mechanisms, such as, but not limited to, a snap fit, a twist lock mechanism., magnetic force, interference fit, combinations of any of the foregoing, or the like, may also be used.

[0035] Reference will now be made to FIGS. 2-4. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the inflatable implement 20. FIG. 3 A is a side view of the inflatable implement 20 in a first or deflated configuration and FIG. 3B is a side view of the inflatable implement 20 in a second or inflated configuration. FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of the inflatable implement 20 taken at line A- A in FIG. 3A, FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the inflatable implement 20 taken at line B-B in FIG. 3B. The cap 16 may include an outer handle 38 configured to be gripped by the user. The outer handle 38 may have a generally cylindrical body having a closed first end 58 and an open second end 60. An opening 62 may be defined through a side wall of the outer handle 38. The squeezable panel 18 may be positioned within or accessible through the opening 62. An inner cap 40 may be configured to be positioned within the outer handle. The inner cap 40 may include a plurality of internal threads 36 for threadably engaging the reservoir assembly 12. In some embodiments, the inner cap 40 may have a generally u-shaped or channel-like first end 64 and a generally cylindrical second end 66. However, the inner cap 40 may take other shapes and configuration as desired. The first end 64 may define a cavity or recess 68 configured to receive a flexible fluid chamber 42. The outer handle 38 and inner cap 40 may be formed of plastic (e.g., polypropylene (PP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyoxymethylene (POM)), glass, or any other suitable material, for containing a cosmetic, medicinal, personal care, or other product.

[0036] The flexible chamber 42 may define a generally enclosed chamber having a first end 70 and a second end 72. The flexible chamber 42 may include a bellow structure and/or accordion style folds 46 on two or more sides thereof. The bellow stmcture 46 may be configured to facilitate the flexible chamber 42 being reversibly moved between a first expanded configuration and a second collapsed configuration (see, for example, FIGS. 3B and 4B). As the flexible chamber 42 is compressed, air or other fluid may be driven out of the chamber 42 through an opening 44 in the second end 72 and into an interior of the applicator 28, as will be described in more detail below. It is contemplated that the flexible chamber 42 may not include the bellows 46. In some cases, other features that facilitate compression of the chamber 42 may be used. The flexible chamber 42 may be made from a soft, deformable material such as, but not limited to, rubber, low density polyethylene (LDPE), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), silicone, plastic (e.g. polypropylene (PP)), etc.

[0037] The cap 16 may further include a panel or cover 18 configured to be positioned over the flexible chamber 42 when the cap 16 is in the assembled configuration. The panel 18 may have a generally u-shaped configuration and may be sized and shaped to conform to a compression surface 76 of the flexible chamber 42. For example, the inner surface 74 of the panel 18 may be configured to generally mate with the compression surface of the flexible chamber 42 such that a force applied to an outer surface 78 of the panel 18 is translated to the flexible chamber 42. However it is not necessary for the panel 18 to be of a similar size and shape to the flexible chamber 42. It is contemplated that the panel 18 may take any shape which allows a force exerted on the panel 18 to be translated or transmitted to the flexible chamber 42. In some cases, the panel 18 may not be present. When so provided, the panel 18 may be a formed aluminum part to provide a generally rigid push surface. However, the panel 18 may be flexible enough that the panel 18 can return to its original shape upon removal of an applied force. In some embodiments, the panel 18 may include a brand label or other aesthetic feature. For example, the panel 18 may be configured to provide a cooling sensation to the user.

[0038] As described above, the stem 22 may include a top or first end 24 and a bottom or second end 26. The top end 24 may be configured to be secured to the cap 16. In some cases, the top end 24 may be configured to extend through the second end 66 of the inner cap 40 and into the opening 44 at the second end 72 of the flexible chamber 42. The stem 22 may include a ledge or mechanical stop 54 configured to engage a corresponding ledge or stop 80 (see, for example, FIGS. 4A and 4B) within the second end 66 of the inner cap 40. The stem 22 is a hollow member having a lumen 82 (see, for example, FIGS. 4A and 4B) extending from the first end 24 to the second end 26. The stem 22 may have a varying diameter from the first end 24 to the second end 26. The varying diameter may provide for fixation and stop points for affixing the stem 22 to other components of the inflatable implement 20.

[0039] A tube 48 having a first end 50 and a second end 52 may extend through the lumen 82 of the stem 22. In some cases, the stem 22 may be a molded rigid plastic formed over a steel tube 48. However, the stem 22 may be formed from, other suitable materials including, but not limited to, metals, ceramics, or composites, etc. Further, while the tube 48 is described as steel, it is contemplated that the tube 48 may be formed from other materials, as desired. Examples of other suitable materials include, without limitation, metals (e.g., aluminum., titanium, stainless steel, nickel, tin, copper, brass, alloys thereof, etc.), ceramics, high-density plastics, composites, or the like. The first end 50 of the tube may be configured to extend into the opening 44 at the second end 72 of the flexible chamber 42 and into an interior of the flexible chamber 42 (see, for example, FIGS. 4A and 4B). The tube 48 may allow compressed air (or other fluid) to flow from the flexible chamber 42 through a lumen 84 of the tube 48 and to the interior of the applicator 28.

[0040] An end piece 56 may be secured to the second end 52 of the tube 48 and/or the second end 26 of the stem 22. The end piece 56 may have a lumen 86 extending along the length tliereof for fluidly coupling the lumen 84 of the tube 48 to the interior of the applicator 28. In some cases, the fluid may exit the end piece 56 through an opening 90 in a second end 88 thereof. In other words, the fluid may exit the end piece 56 in a direction generally in line with a longitudinal axis of the stem 22. In other embodiments, the fluid may exit the end piece 56 through one or more openings in a side wall of the end piece 56 and oriented at angle to a longitudinal axis of the stem 22 (e.g., generally perpendicular to). In other words, the fluid may exit the end piece 56 at a location proximal to the second end 88. In some embodiments, the end piece 56 may have an outer surface sized and shaped to generally conform to or mate with the inner surface 92 of the applicator 28 when the tip 32 is in the deflated configuration, although this is not required. The end piece 56 may take any size and/or shape desired.

[Θ041 ] Referring now to FIGS. 4A and 4B, when the inflatable implement 20 is assembled, the inner cap 40 is positioned within the outer handle 38. The inner cap 40 is positioned such that the opening of the recess 68 is generally aligned with the opening 62 in the outer handle 38. The flexible chamber 42 is positioned within the recess 68 such that the compression surface 76 extends towards the opening 62 in the outer handle 38. In some embodiments, the compression surface 76 may extend into or sometimes through the opening 62 in the outer handle 38. The panel 18 may be positioned over the flexible chamber 42 such that the inner surface 74 of the u-shaped channel generally aligns with and/or contacts the compression surface 76 of the flexible chamber 42. The outer handle 38, inner cap 40, flexible chamber 42 and/or panel 18 may be secured together using any number of different techniques, including, but not limited to, snap fit, press fit, adhesive, fasteners, threads, over- molding, or any other suitable fastening means, as desired.

[Θ042] The tube 48 may be assembled within the stem 22. In some

embodiments, the stem 22 may be molded over the tube 48. In other embodiments, the tube 48 and the stem 22 may be secured together using any number of different techniques, including, but not limited to, snap fit, press fit, adhesive, fasteners, threads, over-molding, or any other suitable fastening means, as desired. In some embodiments, only one of the tube 48 or stem 22 may be used. In other

embodiments, the tube 48 and stem 22 may be formed as a unitary structure. The first ends 24, 50 of the stern 22 and tube 48 may be inserted into the opening 44 in the flexible chamber 42 to provide a fluid pathway between the interior 94 of the chamber 42 and the interior 96 of the applicator 28. As described above, the stem 22 may include a ledge 54 configured to engage a mating ledge 80 within the inner cap 40. This interaction may provide a mechanical stop to limit advancement of the stem 22 and/or tube 48 within the interior 94 of the flexible chamber 42. It is contemplated that the first end 24 of stem 22 and/or the first end 50 of the tube 48 may be secured to the inner cap 40 and/or flexible chamber 42 and the second end 26 of the stem 22 and/or the second end 52 of the tube 48 may be secured to the end piece 56 using any number of different techniques, including, but not limited to, snap fit, press fit, adhesive, fasteners, threads, over-molding, or any other suitable fastening means, as desired.

[Θ043] In some cases, the applicator 28 may be fixed to the bottom end 26 of stem 22 by a snap fit. However, it is also contemplated that applicator 28 may be fixed to the bottom end 26 of stem 22 by press fit, adhesive, fasteners, threads, over- molding, or any other suitable fastening means, it is contemplated that the tip 32 of the applicator 28 may not be mechanically coupled to the end piece 56 and/or die stem 22 in order to allow the tip to expand away from the end piece 56, as shown in FIGS. 3B and 4B.

[0044] As described above, the applicator 28 may include an expandable or inflatable tip 32. The tip 32 may be moved between the deflated state shown in FIGS. 3 A and 4A and the inflated state shown in FIGS. 3B and 4B through actuation of the depressible panel 18 in the cap 16. The panel 1 may be made of a flexible material that allows the panel 18 and the flexible chamber 42 to be squeezed or depressed, as shown at arrow 98 in FIGS. 3B and 4B. As the panel 1 8 is depressed, the flexible chamber 42 may be compressed causing a volume of fluid to be forced out of the chamber 42 and into the lumen 84 of the tube 48. The fluid may exit the tube 48 through on one or more openings 90 in the end piece 56. The tip 32 of the applicator 28 may be formed from an elastomenc or stretchable material. This may allow the tip 32 to expand as the volume of fluid is displaced from the flexible chamber 42. The remainder (e.g., the brush portion 30) of the applicator 28 may be formed from different and/or a more rigid material to isolate the expansion of the applicator 28 to the tip 32. In other words, the tip 32 may be more compliant that the brush 30. The expansion fluid disposed within the chamber 42 may be a gas or liquid, as desired. Some illustrative expansion fluids may include air or saline.

[0045] In some cases, the user may control the degree of expansion of the tip 32 through the amount of force applied to the panel 18. For example, the greater the force applied to the panel 18, the more compression the chamber 42 may undergo and hence the more the tip 32 may expand. The cap 16 and/or flexible chamber 42 may include a stop mechanism configured to limit the amount of force that can be applied to the panel 18. In some cases, the baffles 46 of the flexible chamber 42 may limit the compression of the chamber 42.

[Θ046] The applicator system 10 may provide for the application of mascara to eyelashes at least utilizing two individual portions of the expandable implement 20 (e.g., with the tip 32 deflated and with the tip 32 inflated). This radial expansion may- enable a user to apply mascara with a single applicator system 10 rather than multiple different applicators. Specifically, the applicator system 10 may enable the user to apply mascara with a single applicator, such as the applicator 28 rather than using two distinctly shaped applicators to apply the mascara to different areas of a body (e.g., using the brush 30 to apply product to a central region of an eyelash and using the tip 32 to apply product to corners of an ey elash).

[0047] In one embodiment, the user may first apply the mascara to the eyelashes using the baish 30 and the tip 32 as a unitary applicator while the applicator 28 is not expanded (shown in FIGS.3 A and 4A). The user can then selectively expand (e.g. inflate) the tip 32 of the applicator 28 to the radially expanded (e.g. inflated) position (shown in FIGS. 3B and 4B) by depressing the panel 18 and apply the product to comers of the eyelashes, or other hard to reach areas using only the tip 32 of the applicator 28.

[0048] The tip 32 may be formed of robber, low density polyethylene (LDPE), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), silicone, plastic (e.g. polypropylene (PP)), fabric mesh, or any other suitable material. Furthermore, the tip 32 may be formed integrally (e.g. as unitary structure) with bristles as an injection molded unit, as a series of installed bristles (e.g., like a toothbrush), as a series of tied bristles (e.g., like a pipe cleaner), or other configuration. Furtliermore, it is contemplated that brush 30 may be formed of rubber, low density polyethylene (LDPE), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), silicone, plastic (e.g. polypropylene (PP)), fabric mesh, or any other suitable material . Similarly, it is also contemplated that the brush 30 may be formed integrally (e.g. as unitary structure) with bristles as an injection molded unit, as a series of installed bristles (e.g., like a toothbrush), as a series of tied bristles (e.g., like a pipe cleaner), or other configuration. Further, the tip 32 may be over-molded to the brash 30 as a single unit. Alternatively, ratlier than over-molding a tip 32 to a bmsh 30, both the tip 32 and the brush 30 comprising bristles, instead, another body comprising bristles may be over-molded to an over-molded brush and tip unit without bristles. Further, tip 32 may not be over-molded to the brush 30, and instead, the tip 32 may be over-molded to the end piece 56 or other stem structure.

[Θ049] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an illustrative applicator system 100. The system may include a reservoir assembly 112 with a substantially tube-shaped reservoir 114 for containing a cosmetic, medicinal, personal care, or other product. The applicator system 100 may include a cap 116 releasably coupled to the reservoir assembly 112. As will be describe in more detail below, the cap 116 may be affixed to an end of an inflatable implement. The cap 116 may include one or more panels 118 configured to move the inflatable implement between a deflated state and an inflated state. In some cases, the cap 116 may include two panels positioned approximately 1180° from one another. The panels 118 may be formed from a material that is more flexible or compliant than the remainder of the cap 116 such that the panels 118 can be squeezed or depressed, as will be described in more detail below.

[0Θ50] The reservoir assembly 112 and cap 116 may be formed of plastic (e.g., polypropylene (PP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyoxymethylene (POM)), glass, or any other suitable material, for containing a cosmetic, medicinal, personal care, or other product. Further, while reservoir assembly 1 12 and cap 1 16 are illustrated as a substantially tube-shaped assembly, a variety of receptacle shapes and types are contemplated. For example, the receptacle may be rectangular shaped, triangular shaped or any other suitable receptacle shape. [0051 ] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the illustrative applicator system 100 of FIG. 5 with the cap 116 and inflatable implement 120 uncoupled from the reservoir assembly 112. The inflatable implement 120 may include a hollow stem 122 having a top end 124 and a bottom end 126. The bottom end 126 of the stem 122 may have an applicator 128 coupled thereto. The applicator 128 may comprise a brush 130 fixed to the bottom end 126 of hollow stem 122, and an expandable or inflatable tip 132 distal to the brash 130. In some cases, the inflatable tip 132 may be a unitary stmcture with the brush 130. In other cases, the inflatable tip 132 may be formed as a separate structure from the brush 130 and attached thereto. The applicator 128 may comprise a stretehably expandable tip or any other expandable tip. Further, while brush 130 is illustrated here as being generally a shaft-shaped unit of bristles for application of a product such as mascara, the inflatable applicators according to this disclosure may also be used to apply other products, such as foundation, blush, or other cosmetic products and may take on other shapes, such as having a triangular cross section, a square cross section, a bulb shape, or the like. Likewise, while tip 132 (see, for example FIG. 7B) is illustrated here as being expandable into a generally bulb-shaped unit of bristles for application of a product such as mascara, foundation, blush, or other cosmetic products, other shapes are also contemplated. For example, tip 132 may be mohawk-shaped, knife-shaped, mace-shaped or the like. Various embodiments of the applicator 128 are also contemplated. For example, the applicator 128 may comprise a brush, a sponge, and/or flocking.

[0052] The inflatable implement 120 is further shown to have a cap 116 securely disposed on the top end 124 of stem 122. The cap 1 16 may include one or more depressible or squeezable panels 118 that are configured to act as an actuation mechanism to move the inflatable tip 132 between a deflated state (FIG. 7A) and an inflated state (FIG. 7B). However, alternative actuation mechanisms are

conceptualized. For example, the actuation mechanism may be a push button, a lever, a dial, a rotatable portion of cap, or a switch mechanism.

[0053] The inflatable implement 120 may be releasably coupled to a threaded collar 134 of the reservoir assembly 112. For example, the cap 116 may include internal threads 136 (see, for example, FIGS. 8 A and 8B) configured to threadably engage the collar 134. However, other coupling mechanisms, such as, but not limited io, a snap fit, a twist lock mechanism, magnetic force, interference fit, combinations of any of the foregoing, or the like, may also be used.

[0054] FIG. 7A is a side view of the inflatable implement 120 in a first or deflated configuration and FIG. 7B is a side view of the inflatable implement 120 in a second or inflated configuration . FIG. 8 A is a cross-sectional view of the inflatable implement 120 taken at line C-C in FIG. 7A. FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of the inflatable implement 120 taken at line D-D in FIG. 7B. As described above, the applicator 128 may include an expandable or inflatable tip 132. The tip 132 may be moved between the deflated state shown in FIGS. 7A and 8A and the inflated state shown in FIGS. 7B and 8B through actuation of the squeezable panels 1 18 in the cap 116. The panels 118 may be made of a flexible material that allows the panels to be squeeze or depressed, as shown at arrows 144 in FIG. 8B. The panels 1 18 may form the wall of a fluid chamber 138. As the panels 118 are squeezed, a volume of fluid may be forced out of the chamber 138 and into the lumen 140 of the hollow stem 122. A distal region 142 of the stem. 122 may be formed from an elastomeric or stretchable material . This may allow the distal region 142 to expand as the volume of fluid is displaced from the cap chamber 138. The remainder (e.g. a proximal region proximal to the distal region 142) of the stem 122 may be formed from different and/or a more rigid material to isolate the expansion of the applicator 128 to the region 142 adjacent to the tip 132. It is contemplated that the stem 122 may be formed as unitary structure (e.g. extrusion molded) or as separate components that are affixed together. The expansion fluid disposed within the chamber 138 may be a gas or liquid, as desired. Some illustrative expansion fluids may include air or saline.

[0055] In some cases, the user may control the degree of expansion of the tip 132 through the amount of force applied to the panels 118. For example, the greater the force applied to the panels 118, the more the tip 132 may expand. The cap 116 and/or fluid cavity 138 may include a stop mechanism (not explicitly shown) configured to limit the amount of force that can be applied to the panels 118.

[0056] The applicator system 100 may provide for the application of mascara to eyelashes at least utilizing two individual portions of the expandable implement 120 (e.g., with the tip 132 deflated and with the tip 132 inflated). This radial expansion may enable a user to apply mascara with a single applicator system 100 rather than multiple different applicators. Specifically, the applicator system 100 may enable the user to apply mascara with a single applicator, such as the applicator 128 rather than using two distinctly shaped applicators to apply the mascara to different areas of a body (e.g., using the brush to apply product to a central region of an eyelash and using the tip to apply product to comers of an eyelash).

[Θ057] In one embodiment, the user may first apply the mascara to the eyelashes using the brush 130 and the tip 132 as a unitary applicator while the applicator 128 is not expanded (shown in FIGS.7A and 8 A). The user can then selectively expand (e.g. inflate) the tip 132 of the applicator 128 to the radially expanded (e.g. inflated) position (shown in FIGS. 7B and 8B) by squeezing 144 the panels 118 and apply the product to corners of the eyelashes, or other hard to reach areas using only the tip 132 of the applicator 128.

[0058] The tip 132 may be formed of rubber, low density polyethylene (LDPE), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), silicone, plastic (e.g. polypropylene (PP)), fabric mesh, or any other suitable material. Furthermore, the tip 132 may be formed integrally (e.g. as unitary structure) with bristles as an injection molded unit, as a series of installed bristles (e.g., like a toothbrush), as a series of tied bristles (e.g., like a pipe cleaner), or other configuration. Furthermore, it is contemplated that brush 130 may be formed of rubber, low density polyethylene (LDPE), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), silicone, plastic (e.g. polypropylene (PP)), fabric mesh, or any other suitable material . Similarly, it is also contemplated that the brush 130 may be formed integrally (e.g. as unitary structure) with bristles as an injection molded unit, as a series of installed bristles (e.g., like a toothbrush), as a series of tied bristles (e.g., like a pipe cleaner), or other configuration. Further, the tip 132 may be over-molded to the brush 130 as a single unit. Alternatively, rather than over-molding a tip 132 to a brush 130, both the tip 132 and the brush 130 comprising bristles, instead, another body comprising bristles may be over-molded to an over-molded brush and tip unit without bristles. Further, tip 132 may not be over-molded to the brush 130, and instead, the tip 132 may be over-molded to the inflation lumen 140 or other stem structure.

[0Θ59] in some cases, the applicator 128 may be fixed to the bottom end 126 of stem 122 by a snap fit. However, it is also contemplated that applicator 128 may be fixed to the bottom end 126 of stem 122 by press fit, adhesive, fasteners, threads, over-molding, or any other suitable fastening means.

[0060] FIG. 9 is a side view of another illustrative expandable implement 200 that may be used as a past of an applicator system, such as the applicator systems 10, 100 described above. The expandable implement 200 may include a hollow stem 202 having a top end 204 and a bottom end 206. The bottom end 206 of the stem 202 may have an applicator 208 coupled thereto. The applicator 208 may comprise a brush 210 fixed to the bottom end 206 of hollow stem 202, and an expandable tip 212 distal to the brush 210. In some cases, the expandable tip 212 may be a unitary structure with the brush 210. In other cases, the expandable tip 212 may be formed as a separate structure from the brash 210 and attached thereto. The applicator 208 may comprise a stretchably expandable tip or any other expandable tip. Further, while brash 210 is illustrated here as being generally a shaft-shaped unit of bristles for application of a product such as mascara, the expandable applicators according to this disclosure may also be used to apply other products, such as foundation, blush, or other cosmetic products and may take on other shapes, such as having a triangular cross section, a square cross section, a bulb shape, or the like. Likewise, while tip 212 is illustrated here as being expandable into a generally bulb-shaped unit of bristles for application of a product such as mascara, foundation, blush, or other cosmetic products, other shapes are also contemplated. For example, tip 212 may be mohawk-shaped, knife- shaped, mace-shaped or the like. Various embodiments of the applicator 208 are also contemplated. For example, the applicator 208 may comprise a brush, a sponge, and/or flocking.

[0061] The expandable implement 200 is further shown to have an insert 214 securely disposed adjacent to the top end 204 of stem 202. The cap 214 may be coupled to a cap, such as the cap 116 described herein, which in turn may releasably couple the expandable implement to a reservoir, although this is not required. A plunger or actuation member 216 may be slidably disposed within a lumen 218 of the stem 202, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 1 1.

[0062] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the expandable implement 200 taken at line E-E of FIG. 9 and FIG. 11 is a close up cross-sectional view of the applicator 208 of the expandable implement 200. As described above, the applicator 208 may include a radially expandable tip 212. The tip 212 may be moved between the unexpanded configuration and the expanded configuration through actuation of the plunger 216. While not explicitly shown, the plunger 216 may be moved through actuation of a push button, a lever, a dial, a rotatable portion of cap, or a switch mechanism. In some cases, the actuation mechanism may be incorporated into or otherwise be associated with the cap (not explicitly shown).

[0063] The plunger 216 may be slidabiy disposed within the lumen 218 of the stem. 202 and include a top end 230 and a bottom end 232. The top end 230 may be coupled to an actuation mechanism to cause longitudinal movement of the plunger 216, as shown at arrow 234. The bottom end 232 may include a rounded distal tip 222. The distal tip 222 may be any shape desired but may be rounded so as to engage an inner surface of the applicator 208 without puncturing or otherwise damaging the applicator 208. The bottom end 232 may also include a bulbous enlarged diameter region 220. As the plunger 216 is retracted upwards, as shown at arrow 236, the enlarged diameter region 220 may be retracted into a lumen 238 of a rolled spiayed component 224.

[0064] Referring additionally to FIG. 12, which illustrates an exploded view of the applicator 208, splayed component 224, and bottom end 232 of the plunger 216, the splayed component 224 may be a substantially tubular component having a proximal end region 240 and a distal end region 242. The distal end region 242 may include a plurality of fingers 226 separated from one another by a gap 228. The enlarged diameter region 220 of the plunger 216 may have a diameter that is larger than a diameter of the lumen 238 of the splayed component 224. As the plunger 216 is retracted upwards 236, the enlarged diameter region 220 may enter the lumen 238 of the splayed component 224 causing the fingers 226 to spread in a radially direction, as shown at arrows 244. The spreading of the fingers 226 may cause the tip 212 of the applicator 208 to expand and spread. In some cases, the enlarged diameter region 220 of the plunger 216 may have a tapered proximal region 246 configured to guide the enlarged diameter region 220 into the lumen 238.

[0065] FIG. 13 illustrates an exploded view of the applicator 208, the plunger 216, the spiayed component 224, and the stem 202. The stem 202 may include a first region of reduced outer diameter 248 adjacent to the bottom end 206 thereof. The applicator 208 may be affixed to the stem 202 at or near the first region of reduced outer diameter 248. The stem 202 may also a second region of reduced outer diameter 250 adjacent to the bottom end 206 thereof. The splayed component 22/4 may be affixed to the stem 202 at or near the second region of reduced outer diameter 250. FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of the applicator end of the expandable implement 200 with the applicator 208 removed. As can be seen, the plunger 216 may be slidably disposed within, at least in part, the stem 202 and the splayed component 224. The splayed component 224 may be affixed to the stem 202. In some cases, the splayed component 224 may have an outer diameter that is similar in size to the first reduced diameter region 248 of the stem 202, although this is not required.

[0066] In some cases, the user may control the degree of expansion of the tip 212 through die amount of upwards retraction of the plunger 216. For example, the greater the upwards retraction of the plunger 216, the more the tip 212 may expand. The cap 214 and/or plunger 216 may include a stop mechanism (not explicitly shown) configured to limit the longitudinal movement of the plunger 216.

[0067] The expandable implement 200 may provide for the application of mascara to eyelashes at least utilizing two individual portions of the expandable implement 200 (e.g., with the tip 212 unexpanded and with the tip 212 expanded). This radial expansion may enable a user to apply mascara with a single applicator system rather than multiple different applicators. Specifically, the applicator system may enable the user to apply mascara with a single applicator, such as the applicator 208 rather than using two distinctly shaped applicators to apply the mascara to different areas of a body (e.g., using the brush to apply product to a central region of an eyelash and using the tip to apply product to comers of an eyelash).

[0068] In one embodiment, the user may first apply the mascara to the eyelashes using the brush 210 and the tip 212 as a unitary applicator while the applicator 208 is not expanded. The user can then selectively expand the tip 212 of the applicator 208 to the radially expanded position through upwards retraction of the plunger 216 and apply the product to comers of the eyelashes, or other hard to reach areas using only the tip 212 of the applicator 208. [Θ069] The tip 212 may be formed of rubber, low density polyethylene (LDPE), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), silicone, plastic (e.g. polypropylene (PP)), fabric mesh, or any other suitable material. Furthermore, the tip 212 may be formed integrally (e.g. as unitary structure) with bristles as an injection molded unit, as a series of installed bristles (e.g., like a toothbrush), as a series of tied bristles (e.g., like a pipe cleaner), or other configuration. Furthermore, it is contemplated that brush 210 may be formed of rubber, low density polyethylene (LDPE), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), silicone, plastic (e.g. polypropylene (PP)), fabric mesh, or any oilier suitable material. Similarly, it is also contemplated that the brash 210 may be formed integrally (e.g. as unitary structure) with bristles as an injection molded unit, as a series of installed bristles (e.g., like a toothbrush), as a series of tied bristles (e.g., like a pipe cleaner), or other configuration. Further, the tip 212 may be over-molded to the brush 210 as a single unit. Alternatively, rather than over-molding a tip 212 to a brush 210, both the tip 212 and the brush 210 comprising bristles, instead, another body comprising bristles may be over-molded to an over-molded brush and tip unit without bristles. Further, tip 212 may not be over-molded to the brush 210, and instead, the tip 212 may be over-molded to the inflation lumen 40 or other stem stracture.

[0070] In some cases, the applicator 208 may be fixed to the bottom end 206 of stem 202 by a snap fit. However, it is also contemplated that applicator 208 may be fixed to the bottom end 206 of stem 202 by press fit, adhesive, fasteners, threads, over-molding, or any other suitable fastening means.

[0071] For each embodiment, the applicator is described in the context of an applicator for applying a mascara product to eyelashes. However, it should be understood that applicators as described herein may be used and adapted to apply other products and may be used to apply product to other portions of the body.

[0072] Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous changes and modifications may be made to the preferred embodiments of the invention and that such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the true spirit of the invention. It is therefore intended that the appended claims be construed to cover all such equivalent variations as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention. Θ073] Examples:

[0074] In a first example, an expandable applicator system for applying a product to a surface may comprise an expandable implement. The expandable implement may comprise a hollow stem defining a lumen and having a first end and a second end, a tube having a first end and a second end, the tube disposed within the lumen of the hollow stem, an applicator affixed adjacent to the bottom end of the hollow stem and including a brash and an expandable tip, an interior surface of the expandable tip in fluid communication with a lumen of the tube, a cap including a depressible panel, the cap affixed adjacent to the top end of the hollow stem, and a flexible fluid chamber disposed within the cap and adjacent to the depressible panel and in fluid communication with the lumen of the tube. Actuation of the depressible panel may be configured to move the expandable tip of the applicator from a deflated state to an inflated state.

[0075] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the depressible panel may comprise a flexible material.

[0Θ76] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the flexible material may comprise aluminum.

[0077] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the flexible fluid chamber may comprise a bellowed structure on two or more sides thereof.

[0078] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the depressible panel may be configured to translate an applied force to a compression surface of the flexible fluid chamber.

[0Θ79] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the expandable tip may be more compliant than the brush.

[0080] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the expandable applicator system may further comprise an end piece affixed adjacent to the bottom end of the hollow stem and in fluid communication with the tube. [0081 ] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, a fluid may be configured to exit an aperture of the end piece in line with a longitudinal axis of the hollow stem.

[0082] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, a fluid may be configured to exit an aperture of the end piece at an angle generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the hollow stem.

[0083] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the expandable applicator system may further comprise a reservoir assembly.

[0084] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, wherein the cap may be configured to be releasably coupled to the reservoir assembly.

[0085] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the cap may comprise an outer handle portion and an inner cap portion.

[0086] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the inner cap portion may have a channel-like first end defining a recess and a generally cylindrical second end.

[0087] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the flexible fluid chamber may be positioned within the channel-like first end of the inner cap portion.

[0088] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples abov e, in another example, the depressible panel may form a generally u-shaped channel.

[0089] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the first end of the tube may extend tlirough an opening in an end of the flexible fluid chamber and into an interior of the flexible fluid chamber.

[0090] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the first end of the hollow stem may extend through an opening in an end of the flexible fluid chamber and into an interior of the flexible fluid chamber. [0091 ] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the tube may comprise a metal tube.

[0092] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the hollow stem may comprise a rigid plastic.

[0093] In another example,an expandable applicator system for applying a product to a surface may comprise an expandable implement and a reservoir assembly. The expandable implement may comprise a hollow stem defining a lumen and having a first end and a second end, a tube having a first end and a second end, the tube disposed witlim the lumen of the hollow stem, an applicator affixed adjacent to the bottom end of the hollow? stem, and including a brush and an expandable tip, an interior surface of the expandable tip in fluid communication with a lumen of the tube, a cap including a depressible panel, the cap affixed adjacent to the top end of the hollow stem and a flexible fluid chamber disposed within the cap and adjacent to the depressible panel and in fluid communication with the lumen of the tube. The cap may be configured to be releasably coupled to the reservoir assembly. Actuation of the depressible panel may translate an applied force to a compression surface of the flexible fluid chamber. The flexible fluid chamber may be configured to collapse under the applied force to move a fluid from the flexible fluid chamber to the expandable tip of the applicator.

[0094] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the depressible panel may form a generally u-shaped channel and the flexible fluid chamber may be disposed within the u-shaped channel.

[0095] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the flexible fluid chamber may comprise a bellowed structure on two or more sides thereof.

[0096] In another example, an expandable applicator system for applying a product to a surface may comprise an expandable implement. The expandable implement may comprise a hollow stem defining a lumen and having a first end and a second end, a tube having a first end and a second end, the tube disposed within the lumen of the hollow stem, an applicator affixed adjacent to the bottom end of the holl ow stem and including a brash and an expandable tip, an interior surface of the expandable tip in fluid communication with a lumen of the tube, a cap including a depressible panel, the cap affixed adjacent to the top end of the hollow stem and a flexible fluid chamber disposed within the cap and adjacent to the depressible panel and in fluid communication with the lumen of the tube, the flexible fluid chamber including a bellowed structure on two or more sides thereof. Hie expandable tip may be more compliant than the brush. Actuation of the depressible panel may translate an applied force to of the flexible fluid chamber. The flexible fluid chamber may be configured to collapse under the applied force to move a fluid from the flexible fluid chamber to the expandable tip of the applicator.

[0097] In another example, an expandable applicator system for applying a product to a surface may include an expandable implement having a hollow stem defining a lumen and having a top end and a bottom end and an applicator affixed adjacent to the bottom end of the hollow stem and including a brush and an expandable tip. An interior surface of the expandable tip in fluid communication with the lumen of the hollow stem. A cap including one or more depressible panels may be affixed adjacent to the top end of the hollow stem and a fluid chamber may be disposed within the cap and in fluid communication with the lumen of the hollow stem. Actuation of the one or more depressible panels may be configured to move the expandable tip of the applicator from a deflated state to an inflated state.

[0098] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the depressible panels may comprise a flexible material.

[0099] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, a distal end region of the hollow stem may comprise a first material.

[0100] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, a proximal region of the hollow stem may comprise a second material.

[0101] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the second material may be different from the first material.

[0102] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the first material may be more compliant than the second material. [0103] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the one or more depressible panels may comprise two depressible panels.

[0104] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the two depressible panels may be positioned approximately 180° from one another,

[0105] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the expandable applicator system may further comprise a reservoir assembly.

[0106] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the cap may be configured to be releasably coupled to the reservoir assembly.

[0107] In another example, an expandable applicator sy stem for applying a product to a surface may comprise an expandable implement. The expandable implement may include a hollow stem defining a lumen and having a top end and a bottom end. A splayed component defining a lumen and having a plurality of movable fingers may be affixed to the bottom end of the hollow stem. A plunger may be slidably disposed in the lumen of the hollow stem and the lumen of the splayed component. An applicator may be affixed adjacent to the bottom end of the hollow stem and including a brush and an expandable tip. Actuation of the plunger may be configured to move the expandable tip of the applicator from a first state to a second state.

[0108] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the second state may be radially expanded relative to the first state.

[0109] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, actuation of the plunger may be configured to radially expand the plurality of movable fingers.

[0110] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, radial expansion of the plurality of movable fingers is configured to expand the expandable tip. [0111 ] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the plunger may comprise an enlarged diameter portion adjacent a distal end thereof.

[0112] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the enlarged diameter portion may have a diameter larger than a diameter of the lumen of the splayed component.

[0113] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the enlarged diameter portion may comprise a tapered proximal region.

[0114] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the expandable applicator system may further comprise a reservoir assembly.

[0115] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in anotlier example, the expandable applicator system, may further comprise a cap coupled to the top end of the hollow stem,

[01 6] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the cap may include an actuation mechanism configured to actuate the plunger.

[0117] Alternatively or additionally to any of the examples above, in another example, the cap may be configured to be releasably coupled to the reservoir assembly.