FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to cleaning implements, and more particularly to specially
textured cleaning devices.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Users of cosmetic brushes are advised to clean their brushes frequently, both to
enhance subsequent applications of makeup and extend the useful lives of the brushes.
Frequent and proper cleaning avoids the accumulation of old makeup, skin oils and
bacteria. These accumulations can undesirably affect the color of later applied makeup
due to oxidation or binding with skin oils, and they may lead to skin problems or
eye infections.
[0003] Cosmetic brushes frequently are cleaned by hand, applying a mixture of water and
mild soap or shampoo to the bristles as the bristles are worked against the palm of
the hand to expose as much bristle surface area as possible to the liquid mixture.
This is followed by rinsing, typically working the bristles with the fingers while
holding the bristles under running water. Typically, several repetitions of the washing
and rinsing steps are necessary before clear water at the rinsing stage indicates
sufficient cleaning.
[0004] Efforts to improve upon the results afforded by hand washing have led to products
with textured surfaces intended to enhance wiping action along the bristles as a cosmetic
brush is washed. Although these products may enhance brush cleaning through improved
wiping action against the bristles, they must be held or gripped by hand, or maintained
by hand against a flat surface, while the user manipulates the brush relative to the
textured surface of the grid. These products feature a single grid with a single texture.
There is no tailoring of the texture to suit larger brushes as opposed to smaller
brushes, or to individually address the disparate needs of the washing stage and the
rinsing stages. These products, whether considered alone or in combination with hand
washing and rinsing, fail to address the need to remove excess moisture following
cleaning.
SUMMARY
[0005] Accordingly the present invention has several aspects, each directed to one or more
of the following objects:
[0006] to provide a cosmetic brush cleaning device with a variety of surface textures tailored
for washing and rinsing both larger and smaller brushes;
[0007] to provide a cosmetic brush cleaning device usable in a manner that replicates natural
movement when a cosmetic brush is washed directly by hand;
[0008] to provide a cosmetic brush cleaning device that does not require the user's attention
in terms of gripping the device or maintaining the device against a tabletop or other
support surface during use; and
[0009] to provide a cosmetic brush cleaning device that provides for post rinsing removal
of residue and excess moisture from the bristles.
[0010] To achieve these and other objects, there is provided a device for washing and rinsing
cosmetic brushes. In various examples and embodiments, the device may comprise a flexible
body having alternate, reversible orientations defined with respect to the interior
and exterior of the device. A first brush treatment texture is defined in a first
surface region of the flexible body, and a second brush treatment texture is defined
in a second surface region. The reversible orientations of the flexible body alternately
present the first and second surface regions on the exterior and interior of the flexible
body, respectively. The first and second brush treatment textures are differently
configured, in order to provide for alternate brush treatments when each is presented
on the exterior of the device, in each of the reversible orientations of the flexible
body.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] For a further understanding of the above and other features and advantages, reference
is made to the following detailed description and to the drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 is a frontal elevation of a device for cleaning cosmetic brushes, constructed
in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a rear elevation of the device;
FIG. 3 is an elevation of a cosmetic brush typically used in facial applications;
FIG. 4 is an elevation of a cosmetic brush typically used to apply eye makeup;
FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a brush washing texture formed along a frontal exterior
surface of the device;
FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic frontal view of the device with broken lines indicating several
different functional sections of the device;
FIGS. 7 and 8 schematically illustrate rinsing and post-rinse textures formed along
the frontal exterior surface of the device;
FIGS. 9 and 10 schematically illustrate washing and rinsing textures formed along
a rear exterior surface of the device;
FIG. 11 is a frontal elevation of an alternative embodiment cosmetic brush cleaning
device;
FIG. 12 is a rear elevation of the device shown in FIG. 11;
FIGS. 13A and 13B are frontal and rear elevations, respectively, of a brush cleaning
device in a reversible configuration;
FIGS. 14A and 14B are front and rear elevations, respectively, of the reversible device;
FIGS. 15A and 15B are front and rear views, respectively, of the reversible device
worn on a hand;
FIGS. 16A and 16B are front and rear views, respectively, of the reversible device
being worn on a hand in the reversed orientation;
FIG. 17A is a rear view of the reversible device, in an embodiment with symmetric
thumb slots;
FIGS. 17B and 17C are side and rear views of the device in FIG. 17A, respectively,
being worn on a hand;
FIG. 18 is a rear view of the device shown in FIG. 17A, in a reversed orientation;
FIG. 19 is a detail view of a drainage hole for the reversible device.
FIGS. 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E and 20F are schematic cross-sectional views of various
brush treatment textures;
FIG. 21 is a rear view of the reversible device showing the symmetric thumb slots;
FIG. 22 is a rear view of the device in FIG. 21;
FIG. 23 is a front view of the device in FIG. 21, in a reversed orientation;
FIG. 24 is a top view of the brush cleaning device in a mat embodiment; and
FIG. 25 is a bottom view of the device in FIG. 24.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0012] There is provided a device for washing and rinsing cosmetic brushes. A plurality
of first texturing features are formed along a first surface region of the first exterior
surface to provide a directionally neutral first texture to accommodate movement of
a brush head substantially equally in all directions along the first exterior surface.
A plurality of second texturing features are formed along a second surface region
of the first exterior surface to provide a directionally oriented second texture adapted
for movement of a brush head in a first predetermined direction along the first exterior
surface.
[0013] The first texture, being directionally neutral or balanced, accommodates a circular
or swirling motion of a brush head over the first surface region. Accordingly, this
texture is particularly well suited to the washing stage, where the user is attempting
to work a liquid cleaning solution into the bristles and expose as much bristle surface
area as possible to contact with the solution.
[0014] In contrast, the second texture is directionally oriented, e.g. comprised of parallel
elongate ridges or other features that promote movement of the brush head back and
forth in a predetermined direction. The back and forth motion correspond to the rinsing
stage, where wiping action over a maximum bristle surface area remains important,
yet the need for preliminary shaping of the brush head also is taken into account.
[0015] Preferably, the first layer overlies the palmar side of the hand when the device
is worn, with the first texturing features formed along the medial section and the
second texturing features formed along the distal section of the enclosure. This locates
the first texture over the palm. The palm is naturally preferred by the user when
pushing and moving the brush head against the hand during the washing stage. The second
texture is positioned along the fingers, corresponding to the user's natural tendency
to work the brush head with the fingers when rinsing the brush head under running
water.
[0016] In a preferred version of the device, texturing features are formed over the second
layer to provide third and fourth textures overlying the dorsal side of the hand.
The third and fourth textures are advantageously configured for washing and rinsing
cosmetic brushes. More particularly, the first and second textures can be configured
for larger brushes while the third and fourth textures are configured for smaller
brushes.
[0017] Another aspect of the present invention is a device for cleaning and removing excess
moisture from cosmetic brushes. A first textured surface arrangement is formed along
the first exterior surface to facilitate a washing and rinsing of a cosmetic brush
head by selective movement of the brush along the first textured surface arrangement.
[0018] A further aspect of the invention is a device for washing and rinsing cosmetic brushes
of different types and sizes. A plurality of first texturing features are substantially
evenly distributed over the first frontal surface region to provide a directionally
neutral first texture to accommodate movement of a brush head substantially equally
in all directions along the first frontal surface region for washing cosmetic brushes.
A plurality of elongate second texturing features extends along the second frontal
surface region in substantially parallel fashion. These features are substantially
uniformly spaced apart to provide a directionally oriented second texture for movement
of a brush head in a predetermined direction along the second frontal surface region
for rinsing cosmetic brushes. A plurality of elongate third texturing features extend
over the first back surface region and are oriented in different directions to provide
a directionally neutral third texture for washing cosmetic brushes. A plurality of
elongate fourth texturing features extend along the second back surface region in
substantially parallel fashion and are substantially uniformly spaced part, to provide
a directionally oriented fourth texture for rinsing cosmetic brushes.
[0019] In one preferred version of the device, the first texturing features comprise rounded
nodules. Each nodule has a radius, taken at the first frontal surface region, at least
as great as a nodule height taken in a direction away from the first frontal surface
region. In addition, each of the second, third, and fourth texturing features has
a width (taken at its associated one of the second frontal surface region, first back
surface region and second back surface region) at least as great as its height in
the direction away from its associated surface region. The relationship of feature
radius or width to feature height results in stable features that produce effective
wiping action against the bristles as the brush head is moved across the associated
surface region.
[0020] In further preferred versions of the device, fifth texturing features can be formed
over a third frontal surface region of the first layer, and a third back surface region
of the second layer. The fifth texturing feature can comprise substantially uniformly
arranged bristles, each elongate in a height direction and having a height greater
than the diameter taken at its associated surface region. The bristles are laterally
spaced apart adjacent bristle by a distance less than the diameter.
[0021] The structure of the bristles and their density cooperate to allow substantial penetration
into the bristles of the brush head, along with effective wiping action along the
bristles of the brush to remove any residue remaining after the washing and rinsing
steps. The bristles are effective in cleaning residues that are difficult to remove
in the washing and rinsing stages, such as liquid foundation and gel eyeliner typically
applied with large and small synthetic brushes, respectively.
[0022] Nodules and ridges along the frontal and back surfaces form textures that enhance
both washing and rinsing of the brush head. The bristles effectively penetrate and
wipe the brush head for removal of residue remaining after washing and rinsing.
[0023] Selective shaping and arranging of the texturing features allows the device to support
different washing and rinsing regions tailored to suit both larger brushes and smaller
brushes, respectively. With the device worn on the hand like a mitten or glove, it
does not require any attention for gripping, balancing, or otherwise maintaining the
device. The user's attention can be devoted entirely to manipulating the brush head
against the selected texture. Further, the textured areas can be selectively positioned
on the device such that the user replicates natural hand movement and placement when
a cosmetic brush is washed and rinsed directly by hand.
[0024] Yet another aspect of the invention is a device for washing and rinsing cosmetic
brushes. The device includes a flexible enclosure having first and second opposed
layers cooperating to define an interior space between the layers to accommodate a
user's hand when inserted into the enclosure through an opening at a proximal end
of the enclosure. A first textured surface arrangement is formed along the frontal
surface to facilitate washing and rinsing of a cosmetic brush head by selective movement
of the brush head along the first textured surface arrangement. A second textured
surface arrangement is formed along the back surface to facilitate washing and rinsing
a cosmetic brush head by selective movement of the brush head along the second textured
surface arrangement.
EXAMPLES - ENCLOSED EMBODIMENTS
[0025] Turning now to the drawings, there is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 a device 16 for cleaning
cosmetic brushes. The device is intended to be worn on the hand during use, and to
that end is formed as a mitten-shaped enclosure. A main body section 18 of the device
accommodates the palm and fingers (other than the thumb) and a thumb section 20 offset
from the main body section accommodates the thumb. Device 16 preferably is formed
of silicone rubber or another suitable elastomer to provide a favorable combination
of structural integrity and flexibility, while being nonreactive and water impermeable.
Another suitable material is latex.
[0026] Device 16 is homogeneous and formed as a single piece. However, in functional terms
it can be considered to consist of two complementary opposed layers or panels: a frontal
panel 22 and a rear panel 24. Panels 22 and 24 are joined along the periphery of device
16, except along a proximal end 26 where an opening accommodates insertion of the
hand into the enclosure interior.
[0027] Device 16 can be worn on either hand, although it is designed primarily for the left
hand. More particularly, frontal panel 22 is a palmar layer overlying the palm and
fingers of the left hand, while rear panel 24 overlies the back of the hand and fingers.
[0028] The exterior surface of device 16 is formed with a variety of textures for cleaning
different sizes of cosmetic brushes, more particularly larger brushes such as a brush
28 shown in FIG. 3 designed to apply blush and other cosmetics to the face, and smaller
brushes such as brush 30 shown in FIG. 4 used to apply eye makeup. With reference
to FIG. 3, facial brush 28 includes an elongate handle 32 having a proximal end region
34 and a distal end region 36, multiple natural or synthetic bristles arranged in
a bundle or head 38, and a ferrule 40 surrounding the handle and the proximal ends
of the bristles. The ferrule compacts the bristles, and supports head 38 with respect
to the handle. Head 38 is flared in the sense that the more centrally located bristles
extend in the lengthwise direction of the handle, and the more peripheral bristles
are slightly outwardly inclined while still extending generally lengthwise. The head
has a circular profile in planes perpendicular to the length of the brush.
[0029] FIG. 4 illustrates brush 30 with an elongate handle 42 having a proximal end region
44 and a distal region 46, multiple natural or synthetic bristles arranged in a head
48 and a ferrule 50 compacting and supporting the bristles with respect to the handle.
Again, the bristles extend at least generally in the longitudinal direction. Head
48, in contrast to head 38 of brush 28, frequently is flattened to have a linear,
elliptical or other noncircular profile in planes perpendicular to the length of the
brush.
[0030] The exterior surface of device 16 is formed with textures tailored to cleaning brushes
28 and 30. More particularly, the exterior surface of frontal layer panel 22 includes
a textured surface region 52 for washing brush 28, a textured surface region 54 for
rinsing, and a textured surface region 56 for a refining, i.e. a post-rinse removal
of any residue remaining after rinsing. Similarly, the exterior surface of rear panel
24 includes a textured surface region 58 for washing brush 30, a textured surface
region 60 for rinsing, and a textured surface region 62 for post-rinse residue removal.
[0031] In addition, a smooth surface region 64 is formed along adjacent portions of panels
22 and 24, extending along an index-finger side of main body section 18 and along
thumb section 20. The portions of smooth surface region 64 along the main body section
and thumb section confront one another. Preferably, panels 22 and 24 have an increased
thickness over region 64.
[0032] Preferably, device 16 is formed by injection molding of the silicone or other elastomer
to integrally form the textured surface regions via the molding process.
[0033] As noted above, the textured regions are tailored to cosmetic brushes of different
sizes, with textured regions on the frontal panel suited to facial brushes and the
rear panel textures suited to smaller brushes to apply eye makeup. In addition, the
textured regions of each panel are individually tailored to the stages of cosmetic
brush cleaning: washing, rinsing, and post-rinsing residue removal.
[0034] With reference to FIGS. 1 and 5, the texture of surface region 52 is formed by multiple
rounded nodules of two sizes: larger nodules 66 and smaller nodules 68. Nodules 66
and 68 are intermingled, and each of the nodule sizes is evenly distributed over surface
region 52.
[0035] The nodules of each size are segmented spherical in shape, defined by a segment that
encompasses at most a hemispherical shape and always encompasses an outer surface
of the sphere to provide rounded crown shape. In one version of device 16, larger
nodules 66 extend away from a nominal surface or base 70 of the panel exterior surface,
have a diameter of 8 mm (i.e. 4 mm radius) at the base, and a height of 2.5 mm in
a height direction away from and normal to the base. Smaller nodules 68 have a 1 mm
radius and a 1 mm height. The distribution of nodules 66 is dense such that adjacent
nodules 66 are spaced apart by a distance less than their diameter. The number of
small nodules formed over surface region 52 is substantially the same as the number
of nodules. The nodules are arranged in a symmetrical pattern, with each large nodule
surrounded by four smaller nodules, and each smaller nodule similarly surrounded symmetrically
by four of the larger nodules. As a result, the texture of surface region 52 is directionally
balanced or directionally neutral, in the sense that the texture provides the same
resistance to the movement of a cosmetic brush head over surface region 52, regardless
of the direction of brush movement along the surface.
[0036] The size, shape, density, and distribution of nodules 66 and 68 provide a favorable
texture for washing brush 28 and other larger cosmetic brushes. The purpose of the
washing stage is to penetrate brush head 48 with the cleaning solution, e.g. water
combined with soap or shampoo, to separate adjacent bristles and expose as much bristle
surface area as possible to the solution. This entails broad, vigorous circular motion
and rotation of head 48 against surface region 52, while applying intense pressure
to the head. The absence of an orientation, i.e. the directional neutrality of the
texture, facilitates the desired circular motion and rotation. The shape of nodules
66 and 68 results in a stable texture and minimizes the potential for damage to the
bristles during the washing stage. The intermingling of nodules 66 and 68 increases
the area of contact with the bristles and improves the wiping action, resulting in
more efficient removal of makeup from the bristles.
[0037] A salient feature of the present invention is the location of the textures on device
16 in a manner that encourages an individual to replicate hand movements and positioning
that occur naturally when cleaning a brush directly by hand.
[0038] With reference to FIG. 6, with main body section 18 disposed on a longitudinal axis
72, device 16 includes a proximal section 74 that surrounds the wrist of a user wearing
the device. A distal section 76, spaced apart longitudinally from the proximal section,
surrounds the fingers other than the thumb. A medial section 78 between the proximal
and distal sections is disposed about the palm and back of the hand. Finally, thumb
section 20 is laterally offset from medial section 78.
[0039] With reference to FIG. 1, surface region 52 corresponds substantially to that portion
of medial section 78 provided by frontal panel 22. As the user presses brush head
38 against surface region 52 while moving the brush head typically in circular fashion,
the surface region is backed and supported by the palm of the hand. The hand not holding
the brush is positioned as if the user was cleaning the brush directly by hand. Thus,
the user of the device obtains the benefits afforded by textured surface region 52
without the need for new or unusual hand positions or movements.
[0040] The texture of surface region 54 is formed by elongate transversely extending ridges
or bars 80 and 82. In one version of device 16, ridges 80 are slightly over 40 mm
in length and 3.25 mm wide at base 70, and have a height of 1.25 mm. Ridges 82 extend
along the complete transverse width of surface region 54, with a longitudinal width
of 1 mm and a height of 1 mm. Ridges 80 and 82 are intermingled or alternating, to
distribute each type of ridge evenly over the surface region.
[0041] The parallel ridges form a texture particularly well suited for the rinsing stage.
The movement and applied pressure of brush head 38 against the surface are not as
vigorous as required in the washing stage. Nonetheless, the need remains for maximum
surface contact with and good wiping action against the bristles. Also, a back and
forth movement of the brush head is preferred (in lieu of the circular motion) at
the rinsing stage. The reciprocal motion provides sufficient surface contact and wiping
action while being less disruptive to the shape of the bristles.
[0042] In each of ridges 80 and 82, the ridge width preferably is equal to or greater than
the ridge height. Further, the ridges are preferably rounded, at least over the crown
or surface of each ridge remote from base 70 of the frontal exterior surface. This
provides for a stable texture and minimizes the potential for damage to the bristles.
Further, as brush head 38 is moved longitudinally over the ridges, the alternating
size arrangement improves surface contact and wiping action, to more efficiently remove
makeup residue and soap from the bristles.
[0043] With reference to FIGS. 1 and 6, surface region 54 corresponds to distal section
76, placing the rinse texture over the fingers when device 16 is worn by hand. This
corresponds to the natural tendency to use the fingers when a brush is rinsed directly
by hand under running water. The fingers back and support frontal panel 22 as the
brush head is moved back and forth over the ridges.
[0044] Textured surface region 56 is formed with multiple bristles 84 of uniform size, uniformly
and densely distributed throughout the surface region. In one version of device 16,
the bristles have a diameter of 0.9 mm and a height in the direction away from base
70 of 2 mm. Adjacent bristles 84 are spaced apart by a distance of 0.6 mm to provide
a high bristle density. The bristles are arranged with no selected orientation, i.e.
directionally balanced or neutral. As seen in FIG. 1, surface region 56 extends along
frontal panel 22 adjacent the wrist, and upwardly along thumb section 20.
[0045] The shape and density of bristles 84 provide a texture suited to removing any makeup
or soap residue remaining after brush head 38 has been washed and rinsed. The need
for textured surface region 56 can arise for example when liquid foundation is applied,
particularly when brush head 38 is formed of synthetic bristles. Liquid foundation
stains are difficult to remove from synthetic brushes, and usually are not eliminated
after the washing and rinsing steps. The high density and shape of bristles 84 provides
improved penetration into brush head 38 as the head is moved over the surface region,
typically in back and forth fashion. The density of bristles 84 also provides greater
friction for improved wiping action against the bristles of the brush head, resulting
in a complete cleaning of the bristles.
[0046] After the stages of washing, rinsing, and post-rinse removal or refining, device
16 can be used to remove excess moisture from brush head 38 to substantially reduce
the time required for drying the bristles. Moisture removal is accomplished by placing
brush 28 between thumb section 20 and the index finger side of main body section 18,
thus to position brush head 38 between confronting portions of surface region 64,
particularly the base of head 38 adjacent ferrule 40. Then, with the thumb moved toward
the index finger to compress surface region 64 about brush head 38, device 16 is moved
relative to the brush in the direction toward the free ends of the bristles. This
tends to shape brush head 38 as it removes excess moisture.
[0047] With reference to FIGS. 2 and 9, the texture of surface region 58 is formed with
multiple, somewhat elongate ridges or bars 86. Ridges 86 are uniform in size and shape,
but are oriented in two different directions perpendicular to each other, as indicated
at 86a and 86b. In one version of device 16, ridges 86 are 5.5 mm long, 2.5 mm wide
at a base 88 of the exterior surface of panel 24, and have a height of 1.25 mm in
the direction away from the base.
[0048] The washing of brush head 48 is similar to the washing of brush head 38 in that strong
pressure is applied to the brush head as it is moved along the textured surface region,
and further in that movement of the brush head is preferably broadly circular and
rotational. At the same time, brush head 48 is distinguished from brush head 38 by
its smaller size and the fact that the smaller brush heads frequently are flat rather
than round in transverse profile. Ridges 86, due to their width, length, and height
have been found to be more efficient for washing the smaller brush heads. The desired
circular and rotational motions are facilitated by the directionally balanced arrangement
of ridges 86.
[0049] With reference to FIGS. 2 and 10, the texture of surface region 60 is formed with
parallel ridges 90 that extend generally transversely yet are undulating or somewhat
sinusoidal. The arrangement of the ridges is directional, to facilitate a back and
forth movement of brush head 48 in the longitudinal direction over surface region
60. Brush head 48, like brush head 38 is preferably moved in back and forth or reciprocal
fashion for rinsing.
[0050] The undulating or wavy ridges have been found to be more efficient than linear ridges
for removal of makeup residue and soap from smaller brushes. In particular, eye brushes
as compared to facial brushes are used to apply more intensely pigmented products,
e.g. eye shadows, eye shadow bases, and eye liners. The undulating nature of ridges
90 has been found to better remove the residues of these products after the washing
step.
[0051] As best seen in FIG. 2, the placement of textured surface region 58 on rear panel
24 corresponds to the placement of surface region 52 on frontal panel 22, in that
both correspond to medial region 78. Similarly, textured surface region 60, like textured
surface region 54, corresponds to distal region 76 of the device. Accordingly, when
device 16 is worn on the left hand, surface region 58 overlies the back of a hand
and surface region 60 overlies the dorsal side of the fingers.
[0052] The texture of surface region 62 is formed by multiple bristles 92, substantially
identical in size and shape to bristles 84 and having substantially the same density.
Accordingly, the texture of surface region 62 is substantially identical to the texture
of surface region 56. Like surface region 56, surface region 62 extends along proximal
section 74 overlying the wrist, then upwardly along thumb section 20.
[0053] For increased user comfort, device 16 can include a liner 93 (FIG. 6). The liner
is formed in the shape of a mitten, to be worn by hand and disposed between the hand
and the mitten-shaped enclosure when the device is in use. The liner preferably is
made of cotton or another water absorbent material.
[0054] Device 16 fits either hand, but is designed primarily for wearing on the left hand
while the brush being cleaned is held in the right hand to effect the desired movement
of the brush head along a given surface region.
[0055] For large brushes, the washing stage typically involves applying a liquid cleaning
solution to surface region 52 with the palm facing upward, then manipulating the brush
head against that surface region to maximize contact of the bristles with the cleaning
solution. In the rinsing stage, surface region 54 is placed under a faucet or other
source of running water while the brush is manipulated with the right hand to move
the brush head longitudinally back and forth over ridges 80 and 82.
[0056] In the post-rinsing stage, the brush head is moved in either circular or reciprocal
fashion for the desired wiping action of the surface texture bristles against the
bristles of the brush. Finally, the brush head is drawn between opposing portions
of surface region 64 while the thumb and index finger cooperate to compress the brush
head, thus to remove excess moisture.
[0057] The procedure for cleaning smaller brushes is substantially similar, depending on
the hand used to support device 16.
[0058] It is believed that most users will prefer to keep device 16 on the left hand when
cleaning a smaller brush. Thus, in the washing stage the cleaning solution is applied
to back panel 24 overlying the back of the hand, rather than to the frontal panel
overlying the palm. During the rinsing stage, the brush head is moved along ridges
that overly the dorsal side rather than the palmar side of the fingers. In the post-rinsing
stage, the user may select either surface region 56 or surface region 62, thus to
support the bristles with the palm of the hand or back of the hand, as desired. Finally,
the moisture removal stage for the small brush is identical to that for the large
brush.
[0059] As an alternative, the user may switch device 16 to the right hand for cleaning smaller
brushes, in which case surface regions 58 and 60 overlie and are supported by the
palm and palmar side of the fingers, respectively.
[0060] FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate an alternative embodiment brush cleaning device 94 including
a main body section 96 to accommodate the palm and fingers and a thumb section 98.
A frontal panel100 (FIG. 11) incorporates a textured surface region 102 for washing
brush 28, a region 104 for rinsing, and a region 106 for post-rinsing residue removal.
The exterior surface of a rear panel 108 (FIG. 12) includes a textured surface region
110 for washing brush 30, a textured region 112 for rinsing, and a textured region
114 for post- rinsing residue removal. Device 94 further incorporates a smooth surface
region 116 similar to region 64 of device 16.
[0061] Device 94 differs from device 16 in that the washing regions, surface regions 102
and 110, are placed along the distal region of the device. Accordingly, these surface
regions are supported by the fingers, either along the palmar or dorsal side. Rinsing
surface regions 104 and 112 are supported by the palm and the back of the hand, respectively.
[0062] The brush washing and rinsing textures, while located over the fingers rather than
the palm and back of the hand (and vice versa), are substantially the same. The post-rinsing
surface regions likewise are substantially identical. Accordingly, device 94 is used
in much the same manner as described above for device 16. Device 94 is a suitable
alternative to device 16, particularly for users inclined toward more active use of
the fingers in the washing stage. Nonetheless, device 16 is likely to be favored by
most users, due to its preferred placement of the washing textures.
[0063] Either of devices 16 and 94 may be modified to incorporate modified textured surface
regions (not shown). For example, the surface region corresponding to rinsing large
brushes may incorporate transversely extending ridges of only one size. The surface
region for rinsing smaller brushes may be formed with pluralities of short, spaced
part transversely extending ridges in lieu of single ridges extending across the complete
width of the surface region. The shorter ridges may incorporate curvature in corresponding
to the undulating longer ridges. Further in alternative versions of the device, the
sizes and shapes of the texturing regions can be varied, e.g. to provide a larger
post-rinsing textured surface region or purely for aesthetics.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
[0064] Some additional distinctions and advantages with respect to the prior art include,
but are not limited to: lower cost, smaller size, ease of transport, and reversibility,
with differently configured textures on both sides. Additional textures are also included,
in both reversible devices and in additional mat embodiments, for refining, shaping
and finishing brushes, including larger and smaller brushes with bristles adapted
for face and eye cosmetics.
[0065] As compared to the full size brush cleaning glove enclosure embodiments, the SIGMA
SPA BRUSH CLEANSING GLOVE EXPRESS and mat designs described herein provide efficient,
cost effective products that can easily be carried in a user's makeup bag or for travelling
purposes, or used in a sink or basin. These designs may be provided in smaller or
larger versions than full size gloves, but are designed to be equally or more functional,
with additional advantages and features. The "express" or reversible and mat versions
of the brush cleaning device may also include all the textures of the full version,
with the addition of two or more additional, extra textures. In order to reduce the
size and weight of the device, these textures may be distributed on one or both sides
of the device, with a reversible or mat design to maximize the use of the available
surfaces.
[0066] The mat device is configured for placement or attachment to the bottom surface of
a sink, tub or wash basin. The reversible device has three possible points of attachment
to the hand and wrist, engineered to maintain stability even during vigorous washing,
rinsing and other brush treatments using rotating and back and forth (e.g., oscillating)
movements of differently sized bristles across the different brush treatment textures.
These attachment points or features include (1) an upper pouch or pocket, which can
cover any of the user's fingers including one or more of the index, middle, ring,
and small (pinkie) fingers, (2) one or two lateral thumb openings, designed to secure
the glove to the thumb, and (3) a lower wrist opening, designed to position the device
with respect to the user's wrist.
[0067] Upper Pocket. The first point of attachment of the device to the hand comprises a pouch or pocket
that covers and secures the device to one or more of the index, middle, ring, and
small fingers. The pocket is reversible, and may have brush treatment textures on
both the inner and outer sides. The dimensions of the pocket were designed and selected
to provide the necessary surface to rinse brushes configured for face (side 1) and
eye (reversible side 2) applications, for example by moving the bristles of the brushes
back and forth or from side to side under rinsing water.
[0068] When the reversible device is used, the WASH and RINSE textures (for washing and
rinsing eye and face brushes) can be located on the palm or ventral side of the hand
and fingers, and the RINSE PLUS or REFINE PLUS textures (for post-rinse refining,
shaping and finishing eye and face brushes) can be located on the back (dorsal) side
of the hand or fingers. The rinse plus or refine plus textures for eye and face brushes
cover the distal surfaces of the device corresponding to the upper pocket, and are
alternately presented on the interior and exterior of depending upon the reversible
orientation of the flexible body. When the mat device is used, these textures can
be variously located, as described below.
[0069] A drain, which can be in the form of one, two or more draining holes, can be added
to the rinse plus or refine plus portions of the device, for example at the distal
end, in order to drain any water that may collect in the upper pocket during brush
washing, rinsing and other bristle treatment processes. The holes can be positioned
specifically at the rinse, refine, or refine plus areas to allow drainage and avoid
water entering the pocket or remaining on the mat during the washing process, considering
that the rinse plus or refine plus textures can also be positioned at the back of
the hand when any of the alternate wash, rinse and refine textures are being used.
[0070] Lateral Thumb Opening. The reversible device can have two laterally spaced thumb openings. These openings
are configured to secure the glove in place with respect to the hand, as the several
brush treatment textures are used. The lateral thumb openings or attachments are relevant
when the wash textures are being used with circular motions, in which a thumb attachment
can keep the glove in place even when vigorous rotating movements are being performed
with brushes of various sizes being applied to the wash textures of the device. There
can be two symmetrically placed thumb openings, one in each opposing side of the device.
This configuration allows both right-handed and left-handed persons to use both sides
of the device, in to treat brushes of different sizes.
[0071] Lower Wrist Opening. The lower wrist opening was designed to secure the lower or proximal section of
the device to the wrist, and avoid extensive movement of the device as brushes are
being washed on the wash, rinse and refine or rinse plus textures or sections. Neither
the thumb nor the wrist openings need add any volume or mass to the device, as the
openings themselves may define a corresponding strap or loop feature configured to
couple to the wrist and/or thumb (or other finger), while allowing the device to be
vigorously used with minimum displacement from the hand.
[0072] Textures. Some of the textures used in the reversible and mat devices may be substantially
the same or similar to those described herein, and their locations and size may be
selected to take advantage of ergonomic features. Two new textures may also be added
to the reversible or "express" and mat devices: REFINE PLUS for EYES and other relatively
smaller brush applications, and REFINE PLUS for FACE and other relatively larger brush
applications.
[0073] The REFINE PLUS EYES texture may include a series or plurality of concentrically
distributed circles, ridges or other features extending about a perimeter, that allow
eye brushes to be further washed and rinsed in concentric movements. The dimensions
of the circles and height of these textures are designed and selected to effectively
separate the bristles of eye (smaller) brushes, allowing soap and water to deeply
penetrate the bristles and remove makeup residues.
[0074] The REFINE PLUS FACE texture may include a series or plurality of closely distributed
horizontal or vertical bars, for example in a substantially parallel configuration.
The spacing and height of these textures are designed and selected to function as
an aid to further clean face or large brushes.
[0075] The refine plus textures can be located on the back side of the upper pocket, or
anywhere on the mat. These locations are selected based on the strength and support
needed to further refine the bristles of differently sized brushes, for example toward
the end of the washing process.
[0076] The process of washing brushes with the devices described herein typically starts
in the WASH texture areas - these are areas that can be intensively and repeatedly
used, until most of the makeup residues are eliminated. Due to the intensity of brush
and bristle movements in these areas, the wash surfaces or textured sections can be
placed at the palm of the hand, or supported against a sink or basin, where the user
has more support for vigorous washing movements of the bristles against the corresponding
wash textures.
[0077] Washing is typically followed by use of the RINSE textures. The rinse textures can
be supported in a sink or basin or located over the fingers of the user, for example
on the inside of the upper pocket, and on the front and back sides of the flexible
body in the alternate configurations. These are areas of that can be innately or naturally
used to rinse brushes of different sizes. These may also be areas with easy access
to a water stream, for example from a faucet.
[0078] If residues are still present after rinsing, the user can move the brush to the REFINE
textures. These textures are designed and selected to further remove any leftover
makeup residues from the bristles. From the REFINE textures, the user may move the
brush to a rinse area or a REFINE PLUS area. The refine plus textures can be designed
and selected to be used as a last step for complete and fine cleansing, rinsing, shaping
and finishing of the bristles. Considering that the REFINE PLUS textures may be the
last areas used in the brush treatment process, the bristles may be fairly clean at
this point, and the strength or force used to clean the brushes may be relatively
less. Based on this rationale, the REFINE PLUS areas may be located on a periphery
of the mat or on a portion of the reversible device corresponding to the back of the
hand. These are areas that ergonomically may provide relatively less support than
other areas of the hand (e.g. the palm or ventral side of the fingers), or in the
sink or basin (e.g., in a central region near the drain hole), as used for more vigorous
washing and rinsing movements of the brush and bristles against the correspondingly
placed brush treatment textures.
EXAMPLES - REVERSIBLE DEVICES
[0079] FIG. 13A illustrates an embodiment of reversible brush treatment or cleaning device
216 having a front side or portion 246, a back side or rear portion 242, and an upper
pouch or pocket 201 defined between a flexible, reversible panel 241 and flexible
body 243. Reversible panel 241 and flexible body 243 may be joined along the periphery
of reversible panel 241, with an opening 226 along the proximal end of pocket 201.
Opening 226 defines the outer and inner portions of flexible body 243, and the exterior
and interior of device 216. The inner portion may accommodate the insertion of fingers
into pocket 201 for various purposes including stabilizing or controlling device 216.
Reversible panel 241 may be defined by first side or surface region 240 and second
side or surface region 244 with alternate post-rinsing or refining brush treatment
textures 136 and 146, formed on the opposite sides of reversible panel 241. Flexible
body 243 may similarly be defined by a first portion or front surface region on first
side 246 and a second portion or rear surface region on second side 242, e.g., formed
as opposite front and back sides 246 and 242 of flexible body 243 in combination with
reversible panel 241.
[0080] FIGS. 13A and 13B show front and rear views, respectively, of device 216 in a first
orientation. Device 216 may be configured to be reversible between a first and second
orientation (or between corresponding first and second configurations). For example,
in a first orientation, first side 240 of reversible panel 241 may be presented on
the front exterior of device 216 and face away from back side 242 of flexible body
243 (on the opposite exterior side), while second side 244 of reversible panel 241
may be presented on the interior of device 216, inside pocket 201 and facing front
side 246 of flexible body 243. In this configuration front side 246 of flexible body
243 is partially within the interior of device 216 defined by pocket 201, and partially
exposed to the exterior.
[0081] Device 216 may be reversed from the first orientation to a second orientation, or
between alternate, reversible orientations, as defined with respect to the interior
and exterior of flexible body 243. This may be accomplished, for example, pushing
or pulling distal end 228 of flexible body 243 through the interior of pocket 201
until device 216 inverts or alternates between the first and second orientations.
[0082] FIGS. 14A and 14B illustrate the second orientation of device 216. For example, in
this configuration, the first side 240 of reversible panel 241 may be presented on
the interior of device 216, and face generally toward second or back side 242 of flexible
body 243. In this configuration, first side 240 of reversible panel 241 is inside
pocket 201, with back side 242 partially inside pocket 201 and partially exposed to
the exterior of device 216. Additionally, second side 244 of reversible panel 241
and front side 246 of flexible body 243 generally face away from each other, with
second side 244 of reversible panel 241 exposed outside pocket 201 and front side
246 of flexible body 243 exposed on the opposite exterior of device 216.
[0083] The reversibility of device 216 from a first orientation to a second orientation
presents several advantages. Typically cleaning surfaces would not be placed on the
inside of a cleaning device because the surfaces would not be easy to access for use.
Making device 216 reversible allows a user to utilize otherwise inconvenient areas
of device 216, for example, textures located on an inside face of pocket 201. In addition,
reversibility allows more surface area of device 216 to have easily accessible cleaning
textures, allowing for device 216 to be created with, for example, a less-encompassing
enclosure, which can result in a smaller overall size of device 216. This configuration
may be less costly to manufacture, weigh less, and be easier for a user to carry or
operate. This configuration also allows for more or different cleaning textures to
be available for use even on a relatively small device. In addition, the presence
of a textured surface on the interior of pocket 201 can allow for the user's fingers
to better grip the interior surface of pocket 201, which may be beneficial when using
device 216 with soapy water or other slippery substances.
[0084] In these embodiments, reversible brush treatment device 216 may be formed of a flexible
body 243 with front and back surfaces or sides 246 and 242 extending from a proximal
portion at opening 203 through a medial portion to distal end 228, with interior or
pocket 201 formed by reversible panel 241. Flexible body 243 has first and second
alternate, reversible orientations, as defined with respect to the interior and exterior
of device 216 defined by pocket 210, and with respect to the front and back surfaces
on opposite sides 246 and 242.
[0085] Different brush treatment textures are defined in different surface regions of flexible
body 243, for example two-dimensional arrays of symmetrically arranged brush washing
features such as bumps or nodules 66 and 68 with various round, circular, oval, oblate,
lobed or other features defined in medial surface region 52 on front side 246 of flexible
body 243, or a symmetrical grid of intersecting, interrupted ridges or bars 86a and
86b defined in the opposite medial surface region 58, on back side 242 of flexible
body 243. Additional brush treatment textures include elongated brush rinsing features
such as generally parallel ridges or bars 80, 82 and 90 in distal surface regions
54 and 60 on front and back sides 246 and 242 of flexible body 243, respectively,
and elongate bars or ridges 150 and 152 configured for additional rinsing or post-rinse
refining and shaping in distal surface regions 136 and 146 on opposite sides 244 and
240 of reversible panel 241, defining the alternate interior and exterior surfaces
of pocket 201 in the distal portion of flexible body 243, as described above. In some
embodiments, additional patterns such as stippling or bristles 84 may be provided
proximal region 56 of flexible body 243, on one or both of front and back sides 246
and 242.
[0086] For example, a first brush treatment texture or pattern of generally parallel or
concentric ridges or other elongated features 90 or 152 may be defined in a first
(e.g., distal) surface region 60 or 146 of flexible body 243, and a second brush treatment
texture or pattern of generally parallel ridges or bars 80, 82 or 150 may be defined
in a second (e.g., distal) surface region 54 or 136 of the flexible body.
[0087] These patterns may be provided on distal regions 54, 60, 136 and 146 on front side
246 or back side 242 of flexible body, or on the first or second alternate surfaces
240 and 244 of reversible panel 241 defining pocket 201 in distal portion 228 of device
218. Thus, the reversible orientations of device 216 and flexible body 243 alternately
present the first and second surface regions 54/60 and 136/146 on the exterior and
interior of flexible body 243, respectively, with the various first and second brush
treatment textures 80, 82, 90, 150 and 152 being different configured to provide for
alternate brush treatments in each of the reversible orientations. For example, the
various first and second brush treatment textures 80, 82, 90, 150 and 152 may be configured
with relatively smaller and relatively larger scale, features, or spacing, as selected
for treating relatively smaller and relatively larger brushes in each of the reversible
orientations.
[0088] A loop or strap 204 may be presented on flexible body 243, e.g., in proximal portion
56, and configured to retain flexible body 243 on a user's hand. For example, the
user's hand may be inserted through opening 203, as defined by a continuous strap
243 attached to proximal portion 56 of flexible body 243 on opposing ends, with the
user's fingers inserted into the interior of device 216 at distal end portion 228
of flexible body 243 as shown in FIGS. 15A-B and 16A-B, below. In additional examples,
opening 203 may be formed in flexible body 243 to define a corresponding loop or strap
structure 204, and configured to retain the user's wrist with respect to proximal
portion 56 with the user's fingers inserted into the interior of pocket 21 in distal
portion 228 of flexible body 243.
[0089] As shown in FIGS. 13A-B and 14A-B, distal end 218 of flexible body 243 is defined
opposite proximal portion or end 56, along the vertical axis or longitudinal dimension
of device 216. Medial portions 52 and 58 of flexible body 243 are defined between
proximal portion 56 and distal portions 54 and 60, on opposite sides 246 and 242 of
device 216, respectively.
[0090] Loop 204 and opening 203 are reversibly defined between the alternate orientations
of flexible body 243, with the user's wrist inserted through opening 203 and the fingers
positioned within pocket 201. Pocket 201 defines the interior of flexible body 243,
for example between second side 244 of reversible panel 241 and first (front) side
246 of flexible body 243. In this (first) configuration, brush refining texture 152
is presented on the exterior of device 216, in region 146 on first side 240 of reversible
panel 241 as shown in FIG. 13A. In the second (alternate or reversed) configuration,
the interior of flexible body 243 is defined between first side 240 of reversible
panel 241 and second (back) side 242 of flexible body 243, and alternate brush refining
texture 150 is presented on the exterior of device 216, in region 136 on second side
244 of reversible panel 241 as shown in FIG. 14A. Reversible device 216 may also include
a pair of lateral thumb openings (e.g., slits, slots or other apertures) 205 defined
in flexible body 243, configured to retain the user's thumb in each of the alternate
orientations of device 216 as shown in FIGS. 17A-17C (below).
[0091] Proximal portion 56 of flexible body 243 is thus configured for positioning device
216 with respect to the user's wrist. Medial portions 52 and 58 are configured for
positioning device 216 with respect to the front (palm) or back of the user's hand,
and distal portion 228 is configured for retaining one or more of the user's fingers
(either including or excluding the thumb), for example in pocket 201.
[0092] Distal portion 228 of flexible body 243 includes pocket 201 configured for retaining
the user's fingers, with brush and bristle refining, shaping and finishing surface
regions 146 and 136 (textures 152 and 150) on first and second surface regions (or
sides) 240 and 244 of reversible panel 241, respectively. Distal portion 228 also
includes brush and bristle rinsing surfaces 54 and 60 (textures 80, 82 and 90) on
front and back sides 346 and 242 of flexible body 243, respectively. Texture patterns
152 and 150 on surface regions 146 and 136 are reversible between the exterior and
interior of device 216, according to the reversible configurations of flexible body
243 with first and second sides 240 and 244 of flexible panel 201 presented on the
outside and inside of pocket 201, respectively.
[0093] Similarly, brush and bristle rinsing texture patterns 80/82 and 90 on front and back
distal surface regions 54 and 60 are also reversible between the exterior and the
interior of device 216. Brush and bristle washing texture patterns 66/68 and 86a/86b
are reversibly presented on medial front and back surface regions 52 and 58, respectively,
again according to the alternate, reversible configurations of flexible body 243 and
pocket 201 as defined by reversible panel 241.
[0094] In this particular embodiment, brush and bristle washing texture regions 52 and 58
each comprise a plurality of symmetrically arranged features 66/68 and 86a/86b, with
feature size, scale, and/or spacing configured for washing bristles of differently
sized brushes in the alternate orientations of the flexible body. For example, washing
features 66/68 and 86a/86b may be symmetrically arranged in a two-dimensional grid
pattern or array on front and back medial portions 52 and 58 of flexible body 243,
and configured for washing brushes by pushing the bristles against the pattern features
in a circular motion.
[0095] Conversely, the textured patterns on surfaces 54, 60, 136 and 146 each comprise a
plurality of elongate ridge structures 60, 80/82, 150 and 152, with various scales,
feature sizes, and feature spacing configured for rinsing, finishing, refining and/or
shaping bristles of differently sized brushes, in the alternate (reversed) orientations
of the flexible body. For example, ridge structures 60, 80/82 and 150 may be arranged
in a generally parallel pattern on each of surface regions 54, 60 and 136, with relatively
larger or smaller spacing selected for rinsing or finishing brushes with relatively
larger or smaller bristles by moving the bristles back and forth across (or between)
the ridge features. Alternatively, ridge structures 152 may be arranged in a generally
circular or concentric pattern on surface region 146, with spacing selected for refining,
finishing and/or shaping brushes with relatively larger or smaller bristles.
[0096] FIGS. 15A and 15B show reversible device 216 being worn on hand 210 in a first orientation.
In this example, the fingers of hand 210 are placed within the pocket 201, and hand
210 is inserted through lower wrist opening 203 defined by a loop or strap 204 so
lower wrist opening 203 is engaged with wrist 214. Lower wrist opening 203 may be
included towards the proximal end of device 216 and can take the form of a slit cut
into flexible body (or body panel) 243 or be defined by a wrist strap protruding from
flexible body 243. A slit cut into flexible body 243 may be preferable because it
would allow lower wrist opening 203 be flush with flexible body 243 when device 216
is not in use for a more compact device 216. The properties of lower wrist opening
203 and its surrounding area such as size, shape, and exact location and material
of lower wrist opening 203 may vary depending on various design considerations such
as overall size of device 216 or desired tightness of engagement between lower wrist
opening 203 and wrist 214. Device 216 may be worn such that attachment points such
as pocket 201 and wrist opening 203 may be helpful in maintaining the stability of
device 216 during vigorous washing of brushes using rotating and back and forth movements.
[0097] FIGS. 16A and 16B show device 216 being worn on hand 210 in a second orientation.
After being reversed from a first to a second orientation, as can be seen by comparing
FIGS. 16A and 16B with FIGS 15A and 15B, some textured surface regions that would
have been covered up by hand 210 are now exposed and available for use. As a specific
example, in a first orientation, post-rinsing region 136 may have been facing hand
210 within pocket 201 and surface region 146 faces away from hand 210; however, after
reversing device 216, post-rinsing region 136 arrives on the outside of pocket 201
and may be more accessible for washing, while surface region 146 faces hand 210 within
pocket 201.
[0098] FIG. 17A demonstrates an embodiment of device 216 that includes lateral thumb opening
205 in two different locations on device 216. Lateral thumb opening 205 may be especially
useful to maintain stability of device 216 during vigorous washing of brushes using
rotating or back and forth movements. Lateral thumb opening 205 may accommodate insertion
of thumb 212 and engagement between thumb 212 and device 216 for various purposes
including stabilizing or controlling device 216. Having two lateral thumb openings
205 located in two different locations on device 216 may allow for the device to be
used by both right- and left-handed users, as well as both configurations of device
216 to be used. A pair of opposing lateral thumb openings 205 may be included towards
the medial portion of device 216 and can take the form of a slit cut into the media
portion of flexible body 243 or be defined by loops or straps 207 defined along or
protruding from flexible body 243. It may be preferable for lateral thumb opening
205 to be defined by a slit cut into flexible body 243 and/or a loop 207 presented
on flexible body 243, allowing lateral thumb opening 205 to lie flush with flexible
body 243 when device 216 is not in use, allowing for a more compact sized device 216.
The properties of lateral thumb opening 205 and its surrounding area such as size,
shape, and exact location and material of lateral thumb opening 205 may vary depending
on various design considerations such as overall size of device 216 and desired tightness
of engagement between lateral thumb opening 205 and thumb 212.
[0099] FIGS. 17B and 17C show device 216 being worn on hand 210 in a first orientation.
In this example, hand 210 is attached to device 216 by pocket 201, lower wrist opening
203, and lateral thumb opening 205. Specifically, the fingers of hand 210 are placed
within pocket 201, hand 210 is inserted through lower wrist opening 203 so the lower
wrist opening 203 is engaged with wrist 214, and thumb 212 is inserted through lateral
thumb opening 205.
[0100] FIG. 18 shows device 216 with an alternate configuration of textures and attachment
points. For example, texture does not extend past lower wrist opening 203 or lateral
thumb opening 205.
[0101] FIG. 19 shows an example configuration of drainage hole 299. Drainage hole 299 may
be placed at various locations in device 216 to drain water that may collect in pocket
201 during the brush washing process. For example, drainage hole 299 may be positioned
in the material that forms the first and second sides 240 and 244 of reversible panel
241. The exact placements of drainage hole 299 and the other features, sizes and dimensions
of device 216 are merely representative, and provided for exemplary purposes only.
[0102] FIG. 20A shows a schematic view of larger nodules 66 and smaller nodules 68. Larger
nodules 66 may extend 4.2 mm away from base 70 and have a 4.2 mm radius. Smaller nodules
68 may extend 2 mm away from base 70 and have a 2 mm radius. These numbers are for
example purposes only, nodules 66 and 68 may come in various shapes and sizes as would
be understood by one skilled in the art. This arrangement of nodules may be formed
within surface region 52 and may preferentially be used to intensely and repeatedly
cleanse residue from brushes. Due to the intensity of the movements in this area,
surface region 52 may be placed toward a region of device 216 that would receive substantial
support, for example, by a medial region of flexible body 243 supported by the palm
of hand 210.
[0103] FIG. 20B illustrates an embodiment where ridges 80 and 82 take the form of a portion
of a sphere extending above a cylinder. In this and other embodiments, the bar and
ridges may extend 3.2 mm above the base 70. This measurement, however, is for example
purposes only and the actual height and shape of ridges 80 and 82 may vary. Ridges
80 and 82 may be placed in surface region 54 of device 216 and may be used to provide
surface contact with a brush moving in a back and forth motion at the rinsing stage.
Surface region 54 may be preferentially placed in a region of device 216 near the
fingers of hand 210 to provide sufficient levels of support and dexterous control
to support this kind of motion.
[0104] FIG. 20C is a cross-sectional view of circular ridges 152 that may take the form
of substantially concentric circles arranged in, for example, surface region 146.
Circular ridges 152 may have a height of 3.9 mm; however, other sizes may be used
as desired. Surface region 146 may be arranged to facilitate the separation of small
brushes to allow a cleansing solution to deeply penetrate the bristles to remove residue.
Because this kind of cleansing action may most effectively come toward the end of
the cleansing process and require a particular amount of strength and support, surface
region 146 may preferentially be placed on first or second side 240 or 244 of reversible
panel 241, for example so as to be supported by the back of the fingers of hand 210,
when inserted into pocket 201.
[0105] FIG. 20D is a cross-sectional view of elongate ridges or bars 150 that may take the
form of substantially parallel lines arranged in, for example, post-rinsing region
136. Elongate ridges or bars 150 may have a height of 3 mm, but may be of different
sizes as necessary. Post-rinsing region 136 may be arranged with a spacing and height
to function as an aid to further clean large brushes. The particular amount of strength
and support needed to facilitate this kind of cleaning action may be found at first
or second front surface region 242 and 244 so as to be supported by, for example,
the back of the fingers of hand 210.
[0106] FIG. 20E shows a schematic view of bristles 84, which may be have a radius of 2 mm
and a height in the direction away from base 70 of 2 mm. Bristles 84 may facilitate
separation of adjacent bristles of brush 30, allowing a cleaning solution to penetrate
the bristles more deeply. For this purpose, bristles 84 may be placed in proximal
surface region 56 located at, for example, a portion of device 216 located near wrist
214 to provide strong support, but less dexterous control than a region, for example,
located at a portion of device 216 near fingers of hand 210.
[0107] FIG. 20F shows an embodiment of ridges 86 that may be placed at, for example, surface
region 58. In this embodiment, ridges 86a that are oriented in one direction are of
a different size than ridges 86b oriented in a different direction. The configuration
of ridges 86 may facilitate washing small brushes. The size, shape, density, and distribution
of ridges 86 may provide a favorable texture for penetrating relatively small brush
heads with a cleaning solution and to separate adjacent bristles and expose as much
bristle surface area as possible to the solution. This region may be used with broad,
vigorous circular motion and rotation of head 48 against surface region 58, while
applying intense pressure to the head. The intermingling of nodules 86a and 86b increases
the area of contact with the bristles and improves the wiping action, resulting in
more efficient removal of makeup from the bristles. Due to the nature of the movements
in surface region 58, it may be placed near an area of device 216 that would receive
substantial support, for example, by a medial or palmar region of flexible body 243
supported by the palm of hand 210.
[0108] FIG. 21 shows a rear view of an embodiment of device 216 in a second orientation.
The lateral portions of this embodiment of device 216 contain ridges 158 formed along
shaping surface 154 extending generally parallel to frontal and rear panels. Shaping
surface 154 may be used to remove excess moisture while also shaping the brush head
by wiping brush 28 (or brush 30) against the ridges of shaping surface 154. The location
of ridges 158 gives shaping surface 154 certain properties which may be beneficial.
First, because ridges 158 may be formed by cutting laterally into to flexible body
243, their size and depth can be increased while maintaining the flatness of device
216, as opposed to having ridges 158 extending out of the front or rear faces of device
216, which may add to the overall thickness of the device. Additionally, because ridges
158 may extend generally parallel to the placement of hand 210, they can be of a size
or shape that would otherwise have been uncomfortable or un-ergonomic. Further, this
placement of ridges 158 enables them to maintain their relative location and access
even after reversing device 216 from a first to a second orientation, which may allow
device 216 to be designed without certain redundant duplicate portions that would
otherwise be needed to access similar texture patterns in both the first and second
orientations. This capability can be seen, for example by comparing FIG. 21 with FIG.
22.
[0109] FIG. 22 illustrates a rear view of device 216 as shown in FIG. 21. In this view,
it can be seen that ridges 158 formed along shaping surface 154 are still present
even after reversing device 216 from a first to a second orientation.
[0110] FIG. 23 illustrates a front view of device 216 in a second orientation. This view
demonstrates how, like devices 16, 94, and 120, device 216 may incorporates various
combinations textured surfaces. In addition, FIG 25 shows the availability of ridges
158 from the front view of device 216.
[0111] In addition to the configurations of embodiments disclosed above, first rear surface
region 242 may include various other regions such as surface region 60 defined by
parallel ridges 90, surface region 58 defined by bars 86a and 86b, surface region
56 defined by bristles 84, and other regions as desired. Second rear surface region
246 may include various other regions such as surface region 54 defined by ridges
or bars 80 and 82, surface region 52 defined by larger nodules 66 and smaller nodules
68, surface region 56 and defined by bristles 84, and other regions as desired. The
exact placement of the regions may vary depending on the desired purpose for the region.
For example, regions used for particularly vigorous scrubbing may preferentially be
placed towards the areas of device 216 where they may receive the most support by
hand 210, for example the palmar region of device 216. Regions where a greater degree
of control is desired may be placed in locations on device 216 most easily manipulated
by the fingers of hand 210.
EXAMPLES - MAT EMBODIMENTS
[0112] FIG. 24 illustrates a mat embodiment of brush cleaning device 416, which takes the
form of a substantially flat surface or mat having a first (e.g., front) side 418,
a second (e.g., rear or back) side 420, a concave region 442, and a drainage hole
440. This configuration may allow for easier cleaning of brushes in, for example,
a sink, tub or basin. In one embodiment, device 416 may, when laid flat, be substantially
oval or oblate in shape. Concave region 442 may help prevent device 416 from substantially
bubbling, distorting, or warping when placed, for example, in a basin or sink with
a curved bottom
[0113] Front side 418 may include various textured regions for cleaning brushes such as,
for example, surface region 60 defined by parallel ridges 90, surface region 58 defined
by bars 86a and 86b, surface region 56 defined by bristles 84, surface region 54 defined
by ridges or bars 80 and 82, surface region 52 defined by larger nodules 66 and smaller
nodules 68, surface region 56 defined by bristles 84, and other regions as desired.
The exact placement of the regions may vary depending on the desired purpose for the
region. For example, regions designed to aid in the rinsing of brushes may preferentially
be located near drainage hole 440 or close to where water is running; alternatively,
regions designed to aid in the scrubbing of brushes may preferentially be located
away from running water so the cleansing solution will not as easily be washed away.
[0114] FIG. 25 illustrates back or bottom side 420 of device 416, which may include a different
pattern of textures from front side 418 or may be substantially smooth. Back side
420 may also include fixation or positioning elements (or feet) 422 to prevent device
416 from slipping for sliding during use. Fixation elements 422 may include suction
cups placed, for example, around the perimeter of device 416. Fixation elements 422
may also include textured surfaces, rubber, polymer, or other stiction ("grippy")
elements, glue or removable adhesive, VELCRO fasteners, or other mechanical adhesion
or fixing elements configured to maintain the position of mat device 416 with respect
to the surface of a sink, basin or other work environment during vigorous brush cleaning
and treatment steps.
[0115] Depending on embodiment, the mat device may include or be formed of a flexible body
416 having first (top/front) and second (bottom/back) sides or surfaces 418 and 420,
respectively. A plurality of different brush treatment textures (or pattern areas)
52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 136 and 146 can provided on top surface 418, and variously configured
for each of washing, rinsing and refining bristles of brushes with different sizes
(that is, relatively larger and relatively smaller sizes, with respect to one another;
e.g., eye and face brushes).
[0116] Bottom surface 420 includes one or more feet or other positioning elements 422, configured
to maintain the position of device 416 with respect to the bottom of the skin, wash
basin, or other work area. Drain hole 440 is configured to drain water from top surface
418. In this embodiment, drain hole 440 extends through flexible body 416, and drains
water through bottom surface 420 to the corresponding drain opening of the sink or
basin. Other embodiments could include different drainage arrangements.
[0117] A concave stress relief feature 442 is provided in the perimeter of flexible body
416, and configured to accommodate flexing of the device when the bottom surface positioned
on the curved or angled (non-planar) bottom surface of the sink or basin. For example,
drain hole 440 and stress relief feature 442 can be positioned along a medial line
of the device, dividing the top surface into generally symmetric and opposing sides
(e.g., on the left and right, as shown in FIGS. 24 and 25).
[0118] The different brush treatment surfaces 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 136 and 146 include textures
variously configured for rinsing and washing the bristles of relatively smaller brushes
on the first side of the top surface, and for rinsing and washing bristles of relatively
larger brushes the second side. The two sides can be defined, for example, by the
substantially symmetric left and right portions of top surface 418, opposing one another
across drain hole 440.
[0119] In specific embodiments, the different brush treatment surfaces include texture configured
for refining the bristles of both larger smaller brushes, for example in medial portion
56 of top surface 418, where medial portion 56 extends at least partially onto each
of the opposing sides. The different brush treatment surfaces can also include different
textures configured for treating the bristles of relatively smaller and relatively
larger brushes in a post-refining step, which is performed on the first and second
opposing sides of top surface 418, respectively. These different textures may include
generally concentric ridges arranged on the first side of top surface 418 to treat
the bristles of relatively smaller brushes (textured surface 146), and generally parallel
ridges arranged on the second side of the top surface to treat the bristles of relatively
larger brushes (textured surface 136).
[0120] Textures configured for washing the bristles can include symmetric grid patterns
52 and 58 of different features selected for washing bristles of relatively smaller
brushes on the first side of top surface 418 and relatively larger brushes on the
second side of top surface 418, respectively. For example, some features selected
for washing relatively smaller brushes include intersecting oblong ridge or bar features
(e.g., 86a, 86b) arranged in a grid pattern 58 on the first side of top surface 418,
and other features selected for washing relatively larger brushes include generally
round (e.g., 66, 68), oval or lobed features arranged in a grid pattern 52 on the
second side. Textures configured for rinsing bristles can include patterns of generally
parallel ridges with different scales selected for relatively smaller brushes on the
first side of top surface 418, and for relatively larger brushes on the second side
of top surface 418.
[0121] In other embodiments the mat device can be configured for treating bristles of relatively
smaller and relatively larger brushes with a flexible body 416 having a top surface
418, a bottom surface 420 and a drain hole 440. The drain hole is configured to drain
water from top 418. The water can be drained through bottom 420 of the flexible body
or mat 416, for example into the corresponding drain of a sink, tub or basin.
[0122] A stress relief feature 442 can be provided in the perimeter of flexible body 416,
and configured to accommodate flexing of top and bottom surfaces 418 and 420 with
respect to the work area (e.g., on a curved or non-planar surface). First and second
pluralities of different brush treatment textures can be provided on first and second
sides of the drain hole. The different textures 58, 60 and 52, 54 are variously configured
for washing and rinsing the bristles of relatively smaller and relatively larger brushes
on the first and second sides of the device, respectively. Drain hole 440 can be positioned
between textures 54 and 60 configured for rinsing the relatively larger and relatively
smaller brushes, for example between the generally symmetric and opposed left and
right sides of the mat or positioned at a different locations.
[0123] An additional brush treatment texture can be provided for refining the bristles of
both larger and smaller brushes, for example in medial portion 56 of top surface 418.
Different brush treatment textures can also be configured for treating the bristles
of relatively smaller and larger brushes in a post-refining step performed on the
first and second sides, respectively. For example, a plurality of generally concentric
ridges can be arranged on the first side (e.g., textured region 146), and a plurality
of generally parallel ridges can be arranged on the second side (e.g., textured region
136).
[0124] In particular embodiments, textures configured for washing the bristles include symmetrically
arranged grid patterns of different oblong, round, ridge, bar or lobed features (e.g.,
66, 68, 86A, 86B, or other variations), which are selected for washing the bristles
of relatively smaller and larger brushes on the first and second sides of the mat,
respectively. The textures configured for rinsing the bristles can include patterns
of ridges, for example with different spacing selected for rinsing relatively smaller
and larger brushes on the first and second sides.
[0125] In use of the mat device, flexible body 416 can be placed in a wash basin, sink or
other work area, with drain hole 440 positioned to drain water from top surface 418
and into the sink or basin. The bristles of relatively smaller brushes are treated
on one side of top surface 418 (e.g., the left or right side), and the bristles of
relatively larger brushes are treated on the other side (e.g., the right or left side).
The different sides have different brush treatment textures 52, 54, 58 and 60 configured
for washing and rinsing the bristles of relatively smaller and larger brushes, respectively.
[0126] The bristles can be refined in a common or medial area 56, which is configured for
both smaller and larger brushes. Post-refining treatments can be performed on the
different sides of the device, for example using different brush treatment textures
136 and 146 for shaping and finishing the bristles of relatively smaller and relatively
larger brushes, respectively
[0127] In one particular example, the textures for washing bristles are formed of different
symmetric grid patterns 58 and 52, and the textures for rinsing bristles are formed
of different ridge patterns 60 and 54. Similarly, the textures for post-refining treatment
may include different patterns of generally concentric and generally parallel ridges
146 and 136. Each of these washing, rinsing, and post-refining textures can also be
selected for treating the bristles of relatively smaller and relatively larger brushes
separately, on the first and second sides of top surface 418, respectively.
[0128] Generally, the various regions of the various embodiments of the disclosed devices
may have different washing characteristics depending on their location on the device.
For example, an area of a device near the front of fingers of a hand may have increased
dexterous control and support compared to an area of a device near the back of the
fingers of a hand which may have lower dexterous control and lower support. As another
example, a device placed in the basin of a sink may have regions with differing drainage
capabilities depending on the slope of the basin in the particular region. These washing
characteristics may include ability to receive and provide support, ability to be
used dexterously, ability to be used ergonomically, proximity to a water source, proximity
to a drain, instinctual use and other characteristics relating to how and why the
particular region may be a useful aid in cleaning, rinsing, refining, drying, or otherwise
washing.
[0129] Similarly, the various textures or patterns formed in the various embodiments of
the various devices may confer various cleaning characteristics. For example, a pattern
with long trenches or grooves may encourage drainage of water or residue while other
patterns may be configured to encourage a cleaning solution to stay in a particular
region. Cleaning characteristics may include depth, height, displacement, spacing,
thickness, durability, ability to generate lather, ability to generate suds, ability
to encourage a cleaning solution to penetrate a brush's bristles, ability to separate
a brush's bristles, ability to remove residue, ability to remove water from bristles,
ability to drain water from a region, ability to encourage or facilitate a particular
hand movement, and other characteristics relating to how and why the particular texture
may be a useful aid in cleaning, rinsing, refining, drying, or otherwise washing.
These texture patterns may include the various patterns disclosed above and other
patterns of structures having varying levels of homogeneity, isotropy, and displacement.
A given texture pattern may lend itself to a particular style of use ranging from
rough, vigorous, and imprecise to light, weak, and precise.
[0130] The usefulness of such a device as described herein may be improved by forming particular
textures in particular regions on the device based on synergy between the washing
characteristics of a region and cleaning characteristics of a particular texture.
As a general example, a texture designed for use with vigorous movements and gestures,
may be preferentially placed in a region near the palm for maximum support. As a specific
example, the first side region 240 of reversible panel 241 may include surface region
146 formed by circular ridges 152. A user may wear device 216 such that first side
240 of reversible panel 241 is located near the back of hand 210, an area that may
provide less ergonomic support for vigorous washing movements and may be better suited
to fine cleansing and rinsing. Similarly, second front surface region 244 may include
post-rinsing region 136 formed by elongate bars 150. As another example, textures
that are best combined with fine movements may be placed in a region near the fingers
or even near the fingertips for maximum control.
[0131] While this disclosure describes exemplary embodiments of the invention, various changes
can be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the spirit and
scope thereof. As understood by those skilled in the art, modifications can also be
made to adapt these teachings to different situations and applications, and to the
use of other materials and methods, without departing from the essential scope of
the invention. The invention is thus not limited to the particular examples that are
disclosed, and encompasses all of the embodiments falling within the subject matter
of the appended claims.