Patent application title: SYSTEM FOR ORGANIZING, STORING, TRANSPORTING, AND USING COSMETICS AND COSMETICS TOOLS
Inventors:
IPC8 Class: AA45D4024FI
USPC Class:
1 1
Class name:
Publication date: 2017-02-09
Patent application number: 20170035184
Abstract:
An all-inclusive system for organizing, storing, transporting, and using
interchangeable cosmetics and cosmetics tools, comprising a carrying
case, at least one replaceable cosmetic disposed in the carrying case, at
least one cosmetic tool disposed in the carrying case, and instructions
on how to apply the various cosmetics using the various cosmetics tools,
wherein the cosmetics and tools are selected for the beautification of a
particular user's type and color of skin, eyes, and hair, and wherein the
carrying case, the at least one replaceable cosmetic, and the at least
one cosmetic tool define cooperating components, and wherein at least one
of the cooperating components includes either a permanent magnet or a
ferromagnetic material cooperative with a permanent magnet.Claims:
1. An all-inclusive system for organizing, storing, transporting, and
using interchangeable cosmetics and cosmetics tools, comprising: a) at
least one carrying case; b) at least one replaceable cosmetic disposed in
said at least one carrying case; and c) at least one cosmetic tool
disposed in said carrying case; wherein said at least one carrying case,
said at least one replaceable cosmetic, and said at least one cosmetic
tool define cooperating components, and wherein at least one of said
cooperating components is selected from the group consisting of a
permanent magnet and a ferromagnetic material cooperative with a
permanent magnet.
2. A system in accordance with claim 1 comprising a plurality of said cosmetic tools, wherein one of said cosmetic tools includes a pick that cooperates with said carrying case and said at least one replaceable cosmetic disposed in said carrying case for easy removal of said replaceable cosmetics from said carrying case.
3. A system in accordance with claim 2 wherein said carrying case includes a plurality of cells shaped to receive said replacement cosmetics and to cooperate with said pick.
4. A system in accordance with claim 1 wherein said carrying case comprises at least one compartment section attached to a hinged lid.
5. A system in accordance with claim 1 wherein said carrying case comprises first and second compartment sections, wherein said first compartment section is attached to a hinged lid, and wherein each of said first and second compartment sections is divided into a plurality of sub-compartments, each of which is adapted to receive elements selected from the group consisting of cosmetics, cosmetic tools, and combinations thereof.
6. A system in accordance with claim 1 wherein said cosmetics are selected from the group consisting of BB cream with SPF, matte eye shadow, shimmer eye shadow, gel eyeliner, brow filler, blush, bronzer, primer concealer, highlighter, and combinations thereof.
7. A system in accordance with claim 1 wherein said tools are selected from the group consisting of powder brush, eye shadow brush, eye liner brush, lip brush, pick, and combinations thereof.
8. A system in accordance with claim 1 wherein said carrying case includes instructions on how to select and apply the various cosmetics using the cosmetics tools, wherein said cosmetics and tools are selected for the beautification of a particular user's type and color of skin, eyes, hair and attire.
9. A system in accordance with claim 1 where said instructions are provided as a document removable from said carrying case.
10. A system in accordance with claim 1 where said instructions are printed onto an inner surface of said carrying case.
11. A system in accordance with claim 1 further comprising a tool rest wearable by a user of said system.
12. A system in accordance with claim 11 wherein said tool rest comprises a bracelet including a ferromagnetic strip formed to fit around a user's wrist.
13. A system in accordance with claim 11 wherein said tool rest comprises a work belt including a ferromagnetic strip formed to fit around a user's waist.
14. A system in accordance with claim 1 further comprising a tool rest including a ferromagnetic strip formed to be removably mounted to an adjacent wall, counter, or work station for easy access by a user of said system.
15. A system in accordance with claim 1 further comprising a tool rest including a ferromagnetic strip formed to be fixedly mounted to or constructed within or upon an adjacent wall, counter, or work station for easy access by a user of said system.
16. A system in accordance with claim 1 wherein said at least one cosmetic tool includes a permanent magnet and wherein said carrying case includes a sheet of ferromagnetic metal.
17. A system in accordance with claim 16 wherein said permanent magnet is disposed on a handle of said tool and wherein said handle is flat on at least a side thereof comprising said permanent magnet to enhance attraction of said permanent magnet to said sheet of ferromagnetic metal.
18. A system in accordance with claim 1 wherein said carrying case is adapted to additionally define a carrying case for a cellular telephone.
19. A system in accordance with claim 1 comprising a plurality of ferromagnetic carrying cases varying in size and function and cooperating in said system to organize, store, transport, and use said interchangeable cosmetics and cosmetics tools.
20. A system for receiving magnet-containing tools comprising a tool rest in a form selected from the group consisting of a bracelet including a ferromagnetic strip formed to fit around a user's wrist, a work belt including a ferromagnetic strip formed to fit around a user's waist, and including a ferromagnetic strip formed to be mounted to or constructed within or upon an adjacent wall, counter, makeup mirror or work station for easy access by a user of said system.
Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention is directed to cosmetics and cosmetics tools; more particularly, to methods and apparatus for storing, transporting, and presenting cosmetics and cosmetic tools for personal and professional use; and most particularly to an all-inclusive system for organizing, storing, transporting, and using interchangeable cosmetics and cosmetic tools wherein each cosmetic and tool includes a permanent magnet, and each associated storage or carrying case, and cosmetic and tool rest comprises a ferromagnetic material for retaining at least one magnetic cosmetic and/or magnetic tool.
[0002] In the prior art, facial cosmetics (also referred to herein interchangeably as "makeup") may be classified generally as cheek cosmetics, e.g., blush, bronzer, foundation, tinted moisturizer, alphabet cream and face powders, such as highlighter, finishing powders; eye makeup cosmetics, e.g., eyeliner, mascara, eye shadows, eye primer, highlighter, eye brow filler; lip cosmetics, e.g., lip stick, lip liner, and lip gloss, and liquid makeup that is a non-powder cosmetic applied to the face to create an even color to the complexion, to cover flaws or to change the skin tone. Coverage varies from sheer to light, to medium, to full. The names for liquid makeup includes: foundation, tinted moisturizer and "alphabet" creams, e.g. BB, CC, and the like.
These and other types of cosmetics typically are packaged in various shapes and sizes of containers, with or without a carrying case including a makeup mirror, and are sold individually or in sets, known generally in the art as "palettes", that vary only in the hue of the particular type of cosmetic.
[0003] Cosmetics typically are applied via one or more specialized tools, specialty brushes, e.g., foundation brush, concealer brush, powder brush, blush brush, bronzer brush, eye shadow brush, eye liner brush, eye shadow smudge brush, eyebrow brush, eye shadow blending brush, eye shadow crease brush, and lip brush. Each of these different types of brushes is specifically configured for the application of each type of makeup, and each specific configuration is designed to assist the user to achieve different effects. Very few palettes offer full sized-makeup brushes within the makeup kit. Most offer sponge applicators or tiny brushes. It is known to provide one or more such tools in combination with a cosmetic palette.
[0004] It is very common for makeup users to carry cosmetics and tools loosely in a so-called makeup bag, or in a clutch, compact, or closable palette. Many prior art palettes are specifically directed to makeup for use on only specific parts of the face or body (e.g., cheeks, eyelids, lips, body scars, or blemishes) and are provided independent of other types of makeup (e.g., foundation without mascara or eye shadow), and without instructions for use.
[0005] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0241482 (the "0241482 Publication") discloses a multi-function carrying case for easily accessing makeup application tools and cosmetics. However, while the 0241482 Publication does disclose an arrangement that keeps tools and cosmetics separate, it fails to offer a non-strap solution to keeping tools and cosmetics in the carrying case and is specifically limited to pouches, zippers, and straps for doing so.
[0006] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0319724 (the "0319724 Publication") discloses a cosmetics container provided with a casing, pivoting trays, and a housing tray adapted to receive cosmetics and make-up tools. Plural pivoting trays are arranged in a stack between the top plate and bottom plate, and they are drawn in or out through an opening in the casing. At least one of the pivoting trays is a housing tray, in which a housing space is formed for make-up tools. A magnet is installed in at least one of the housing tray and the make-up tools for removably retaining the tools in the housing space.
[0007] While the 0319724 Publication does disclose the use of magnets to removably retain tools in a cosmetics container, it fails to offer a solution to multiple shortcomings in the prior art. Specifically, the cosmetics and tools of the 0319724 Publication are not coordinated for a user by color or function and fail to include or suggest the inclusion of full face coordinated makeup. In addition, the 0319724 Publication's individual cosmetics are not interchangeable or refillable, and do not provide means for protecting the case, user, makeup, and tools from soiling, contamination, or damage. The disclosure is specifically limited to a case for carrying tools and cosmetics in separated spaces wherein optionally tools are removably retained magnetically in one of such spaces. Still further, the 0319724 Publication does not address the need for professional instructions for selection and use of the cosmetics and tools for a particular application.
[0008] Further in the prior art, a system comprising cosmetic tools with a magnetic-base and a cooperating sheet steel tool rest (the "Rae Frame") is available from Rae Morris Pty., Ltd., Australia. The system comprises a sheet steel closed loop, allowing a user to stand magnet-based brushes upright or upside down. The Rae Frame, while providing a user with means for ornamentally displaying its brushes, is functionally flawed in multiple respects. For instance, the Rae Frame does not permit easy access to a particular tool without risking the user's upsetting multiple adjacent tools. In addition, the Rae Frame does not offer means for the user's transportation of the tools away from the home or studio.
[0009] In the prior art, choosing which cosmetics to purchase, for what purpose, and how they are to be applied, to obtain what effect, and what tools are required, are left to the user. Moreover, arranging and organizing the appropriate cosmetics and cosmetic tools for a particular use is time-consuming and often results in a failure to identify each of the requisite items. Traveling, whether from home or a studio, further exacerbates each of these issues and often further frustrates the process by creating opportunities for the user's misplacing, forgetting, damaging, soiling, or spoiling cosmetics, cosmetic tools, the inner surface of the carrying case or user's nails, fingers, or clothing.
[0010] Some significant additional shortcomings in the prior art are that a) the cosmetics and tools are not physically organized and maintained in a readily understandable and accessible way in a single assemblage; b) cosmetics and tools are not retained positively in a specially-constructed carrying case; c) palettes are directed to cosmetics for only parts of faces and typically do not include brushes, foundation, mascara, and the like; d) a novice user may unwittingly spend more money than necessary on cosmetics; e) palettes contain no instructions for use of the cosmetics, and a user may not understand the most effective tools and methods for applying and removing the cosmetics; f) cosmetics are not coordinated for a user by color or function; g) there is no full face coordinated makeup; and h) individual cosmetics in a palette are not refillable. Moreover, the make-up and cosmetic tools typically are either fixed, limiting the scope of use of a particular cosmetic or instrument, or are contained loosely, potentially resulting in damage to the cosmetics and tools, spillage and mess, and wasting of time for locating specific cosmetics and tools and space for transporting the same, as well as limiting the user's options when travelling.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] In accordance with the apparatus of the present invention, an all-inclusive system for organizing, storing, transporting, and using cosmetics and cosmetic tools comprises a clutch, purse, or bag having a plurality of compartment sections and defining a carrying case for the cosmetics and tools.
[0012] In one embodiment, a first case comprises a first compartment section and a second compartment section foldingly arranged like pages in a book. A hinged lid closes the first compartment section, and the first compartment section closes the second compartment section. The case may include a clasp or other means for holding the first and second compartment sections in a closed position.
[0013] In another embodiment, the case includes a makeup mirror that is disposed on at least one of a) the inner surface of the hinged lid in opposition to the first compartment section, and b) the back side of the first compartment section in opposition to the second compartment section.
[0014] In another embodiment, the case has at least three compartment sections stacked on top of each other that are hinged at a common axis and cooperate to close the adjacent compartment section. Consistent with the prior described embodiments the case may include a clasp or other means for holding the first, second, third and so forth compartment sections in a closed position, which in turn ensures protecting the contents within from contamination, spillage, and damage.
[0015] In another embodiment, at least one of the compartment sections comprises a ferromagnetic element, preferably in the form of a resident sheet of iron-containing metal. The ferromagnetic cases are available in multiple sizes. By way of example there is in one embodiment a larger case that provides the user with a magnetic storage case to keep all of the makeup and makeup tools and tool rests that the user owns in one safe, well organized and centralized location. This larger case holds more makeup and makeup tools. The larger case may be sized to store a user's additional, smaller, cases and would likely be considered by those familiar with the art as a storage or wardrobe case.
[0016] In another embodiment there is at least one intermediate sized case. It is envisioned that this case would be more easily transportable than the larger case and large enough to provide the user with sufficient storage options and space to transport sufficient makeup, makeup tools and at least one tool rest to allow the user to multiple options for various cosmetic needs and to support multiple recipients of the makeup or occasions for the user. The intermediate size case provides the makeup, makeup tools and instructions for a full face of coordinated makeup, and may contain a compartment to safely house and transport a smaller magnetic case.
[0017] In another embodiment the smaller magnetic case may be stylized, shaped and sized for use as a purse or clutch in addition to a case for transporting very specific makeup and makeup tools to facilitate a user's touching up or freshening its make during an event or evening out. The smaller magnetic case is complimentary sized and shaped to frictionally fit within a sub-compartment with an intermediate sized case. This smaller magnetic case may have one or more compartments that have ferromagnetic materials integrated or constructed therein to permit the safe storage of makeup and makeup tools, as well as having magnets integral to its external construction that are orientated to cooperate with a portion of the ferromagnetic material of the intermediate case for a more secured fit.
[0018] The special relationship between an intermediate and at least one smaller case of the present invention allows for the secured transport of the smaller case within the intermediate case providing the user with the option for transporting at least one fashionable multipurpose bag along with multiple cosmetic options that will support a user's needs when away from the larger magnetic case.
[0019] The smaller case, whether used alone or in cooperation with intermediate or larger cases, facilitates the user's selection and transportation of a few specific makeup pieces and/or makeup tools for when the user is on the go or carrying a handbag.
[0020] In another currently-preferred embodiment, the ferromagnetic element is disposed in the first compartment section behind the mirror opposed to the second compartment section. Preferably, the cosmetic tools each comprise a fixed magnet element in a handle thereof and are disposed in the first compartment section where they are positively retained by attraction of their individual magnets to the ferromagnetic element. Preferably, the cosmetics are disposed in the second compartment section. The cosmetics may or may not comprise magnets in their individual containers.
[0021] In another embodiment, the smaller case is a clutch or purse that comprises a single compartment section for holding both cosmetics and cosmetics tools. Each cosmetic tool comprises a fixed magnet element, and the base of the single compartment section comprises a ferromagnetic element. The clutch has a folding lid and may include a makeup mirror. Preferably, the cosmetics as well as the tools comprise magnets in their individual containers that cooperate with the compartment's ferromagnetic element to safeguard against shifting, damage and contamination of its contents during transport by the user.
[0022] In another embodiment, the smaller case comprises and is formed in the back side of a cellular telephone or as a carrying case for a cellular telephone. In another embodiment, all the cosmetics and tools are coordinated for a user by full face color and function and may be coordinated by the provider with clothing and/or accessories such as purses, scarves, jewelry, shoes, and perfume.
[0023] While makeup and makeup tool coordination was preferably provided in the prior art personally by an expert in connection with a non-professional user's selection and use of cosmetics and cosmetic tools, in the present invention, written instructions may be provided within or as a part of the intermediate or large magnetic case are included to assist the user with such selections and applications and to obviate or mitigate against the need for individual expert guidance. In another embodiment, at least one of the cosmetics is disposed in at least one individual cell in a palette disposed in one of the first and second compartment sections. At least one of the cosmetics is refillable and interchangeable without regard to the other cosmetics. The refillable and interchangeable cosmetic and cell are shaped to facilitate the removal of said cosmetic from said cell.
[0024] In another embodiment, the individual containers of interchangeable or refillable cosmetics and/or the cell are shaped to cooperate with a pick disposed on the distal end of a cosmetic tool for easy removal of the cosmetics from a palette cell for replacement without damaging or compromising the make-up or the user's finger nails and eliminating soiling or contamination of the compartment and its contents or the user's fingers. In this particular embodiment the cell has at least one notch on its perimeter sized and shaped for receiving the pick and creating fulcrum upon which the user may manipulate the pick for easier removal of the interchangeable or refillable cosmetic from the cell it is currently housed within. The user may then simply place the new desired cosmetic into the cell, which will hold the same in place magnetically and frictionally. The cosmetic removed by the user from the cell may be stored elsewhere in a different case, applied magnetically to a cosmetic and tool rest (described in more detail immediately below), or in the case of spent or otherwise undesirable cosmetics discarded.
[0025] Unlike many prior art makeup palettes which include only sponges or small brushes that are loosely contained within its vessel, the brushes of the present invention are organized, arranged, and held in a fixed position by their associated magnets, and may be larger and more comfortably handled by a user since the system of the present invention provides spatially appropriate compartments and in this embodiment have flat handles and flat ferrules ensuring a flush fit with the case's flat inner surface and providing enhanced magnetic contact between the two.
[0026] In another embodiment, an in-process tool rest for magnet-containing cosmetics tools comprises a ferromagnetic element such as a sheet metal element. The receiver may be formed to stand independently on or be temporarily or permanently fixed to or integrally constructed with a work surface such as a counter or wall mounted receptacle, makeup mirror.
[0027] In another embodiment, the in-process tool rest for magnet-containing cosmetics and makeup tools comprises a flexible ferromagnetic element in the form of a band or other flat flexible or molded surface that would allow the receiving surface of the tool rest to be worn by the user e.g., on the user's wrist, arm, or leg as part of a band or with the assistance of straps or as a piece of ferromagnetic jewelry or on the user's waist as part of or an attachment to a belt.
[0028] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the drawings and detailed description of preferred embodiments below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] The present invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0030] FIG. 1 is an isometric view from above of a first carrying case in accordance with the present invention, shown in closed mode;
[0031] FIG. 2 is an isometric view from above of the first carrying case shown in FIG. 1, shown in a first open mode;
[0032] FIG. 3 is an isometric view from above of the first carrying case shown in FIG. 1, shown in a second open mode;
[0033] FIG. 4 is an isometric view from above of a second carrying case in accordance with the present invention, shown in closed mode;
[0034] FIG. 5 is an elevational cross-sectional view taken along plane 5-5 in FIG. 4;
[0035] FIG. 6 is an isometric view from above of a third carrying case in accordance with the present invention;
[0036] FIG. 7 is an elevational cross-sectional view taken along plane 7-7 in FIG. 6;
[0037] FIG. 8 is an elevational view of a typical magnet-containing brush tool in accordance with the present invention, showing an included pick for removing spent cosmetic units from cells in a cosmetics palette;
[0038] FIG. 9 is an elevational cross-sectional view of a portion of a cosmetics palette in accordance with the present invention, showing the pick shown in FIG. 8 in operation removing a spent cosmetic unit;
[0039] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a first in-process tool rest for receiving magnet-containing cosmetics and cosmetic tools in accordance with the present invention, wearable on a user's wrist; and
[0040] FIG. 11 is an isometric view of a second in-process tool rest for receiving magnet-containing cosmetics and cosmetic tools in accordance with the present invention, wearable around a user's waist.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0041] Referring now to FIGS. 1 through 3 and 8, a first embodiment of an all-inclusive system for organizing, storing, transporting, and using cosmetics and cosmetic tools comprises a carrying case 10 having a plurality of stacked compartment sections. In exemplary carrying case 10 comprising two such compartment sections, first compartment section 12 and a second compartment section 14 are foldingly arranged like pages in a book via hinges 13 and 15. A hinged lid 16 closes first compartment section 12, and first compartment section 12 closes second compartment section 14. Carrying case 10 may include a conventional clasp, cooperating magnets, friction fittings (each not shown) or other conventional means for holding first and second compartment sections 12 and 14 together in a closed position.
[0042] A carrying case in accordance with the present invention may have any convenient number of compartment sections stacked on top of each other that are hinged at a common axis and cooperate to close the adjacent compartment section. Consistent with the prior described embodiments, the case may include a clasp or other means for holding the first, second, third and so forth compartment sections in a closed position, which in turn ensures protecting the contents within from contamination, spillage, and damage.
[0043] A make-up mirror 18 is disposed on at least one of a) the inner surface of hinged lid 16 in opposition to first compartment section 12, and b) the back side of first compartment section 12 in opposition to second compartment 14 section (as shown in FIG. 3). At least one of first and second compartment sections 12, 14 comprises a ferromagnetic element 20, preferably in the form of a sheet of iron-containing metal. In a currently-preferred embodiment, ferromagnetic element 20 is disposed in first compartment section 12 behind mirror 18 opposed to second compartment section 14 (as shown in FIG. 3).
[0044] Preferably, at least one, and preferably all, of cosmetic tools 22 (see FIG. 8) comprise a fixed magnet element 24 and a pick 28, and are disposed in first compartment section 12 (as shown in FIG. 2) where they are positively retained within sub-compartment 12a, 12b of first compartment section 12 by attraction of their individual magnets 24 to ferromagnetic element 20. Magnetic element 24 may be affixed to the exterior surface of or encased within cosmetic tool 22. Preferably, tools 22 in accordance with the present invention have flat handles and flat ferrules ensuring a flush fit with the flat inner surface of a case compartment and providing enhanced magnetic contact between the two.
[0045] Cosmetics 26 are preferably disposed in a palette 27 in second compartment section 14, as shown in FIG. 3, and are individually interchangeable and replaceable, as shown in FIG. 9.
[0046] Pick 28 is preferably constructed on the distal end of at least one of tools 22 and is shaped to cooperate with interchangeable and replaceable cosmetics 26 from a palette 27 to facilitate removal and replacement of cosmetics 26 without damaging the makeup or user's finger nails, and eliminating cross-contamination of the makeup stored within or the soiling of the compartment or the user's fingers. Alternative arrangements of tools 22, cosmetics 26, and mirror 18 within container 10 are fully anticipated by the invention. Further, second compartment 14 may comprise a ferromagnetic sheet (not shown) similar to sheet 20 in first compartment 12.
[0047] Preferably, cosmetics 26 comprise at least alphabet cream, matte eye shadow, shimmer eye shadow, gel eyeliner, brow filler, blush, bronzer, primer concealer, and highlighter.
[0048] Preferably, tools 22 comprise at least various makeup brushes of which brush 22 is merely exemplary, e.g., powder brush, eye shadow brush, eye liner brush, and lip brush.
[0049] Preferably, each carrying case 10 further comprises instructions 32 on how to apply the various cosmetics using the various cosmetics tools. For example, each palette may contain written instructions that give step by step instructions on the selection of and application techniques for the makeup. This embodiment additionally includes a cosmetic map that describes the application and use of each product within a select case. Instructions 32 may be permanently applied to an element of carrying case 10, e.g., the underside of hinged lid 16, or may be provided as a removable document 32a. Preferably, instructions 32 are written by a reputable professional cosmetician. In addition, all the cosmetics and tools in any system in accordance with the present invention are selected in coordination for the beautification of a particular user's type and color of skin, eyes, and hair. Lighting, attire, and event specifics additionally affect makeup selection and application.
[0050] Referring now to FIGS. 4, 5, and 9, a second embodiment of an all-inclusive system for organizing, storing, transporting, and using cosmetics and cosmetic tools in accordance with the present invention comprises a carrying case 110 having a split single compartment section 112 divided into sub-compartments 112a and 112b. A hinged lid 116 closes compartment section 112. Carrying case 110 may include a clasp (not shown) or other conventional means for holding compartment section 112 and hinged lid 116 in a closed position. A makeup mirror 118 is disposed on the inner surface of hinged lid 116 in opposition to compartment section 112.
[0051] Preferably, at least one, and preferably all, of cosmetic tools 22 comprises a fixed magnet element 24, and are disposed in, for example, compartment section 112b where they are positively retained by attraction of their individual magnets 24 to ferromagnetic element 120 in an organized and easily accessible manner facilitating the user's removal and replacement of tools 22 from/to compartment 112b.
[0052] Preferably, cosmetics 26 are disposed in cells of compartment section 112a. Cosmetics 26 are selected and orientated within compartment section 112a to support a user with easy access and application of each desired makeup.
[0053] Cosmetics 26 are sized to friction fit in the palette cells and combine with ferromagnetic sheet 120 to secure cosmetics 26 in place, protecting the same from damage and contamination during transportation of case 110. Cosmetics 26 have lips 26a, each of which is designed to cooperate with pick 28 individually or in combination to facilitate removal of spent cosmetics 26 from a cell in palette 27. In this particular embodiment each cell has at least one notch on its perimeter sized and shaped for receiving the pick and creating a fulcrum upon which the user may manipulate the pick for easier removal of the interchangeable or refillable cosmetic from the cell it is currently housed within. The user may then simply place the new desired cosmetic into the cell, which will hold the same in place magnetically and frictionally. The cosmetic removed by the user from the cell may be stored elsewhere in a different case, applied magnetically to a tool rest (described in more detail immediately below), or, in the case of spent or otherwise undesirable cosmetics, discarded.
[0054] Alternative arrangements of tools 22, cosmetics 26, and mirror 18 within a plurality of carrying cases 10,110 are fully anticipated by the invention; e.g., in accordance with the present invention, ferromagnetic carrying cases may be provided in multiple sizes. By way of example, there is in one embodiment a larger case 10 that provides the user with a ferromagnetic storage case to keep all of the makeup and makeup tools and tool rests that the user owns in one safe, well organized, and centralized location. This larger case holds more makeup and makeup tools than do smaller cases. The larger case may be sized to store a user's additional, smaller cases and would likely be considered by those familiar with the art as a storage or wardrobe case.
[0055] In another embodiment there may be at least one intermediate-sized case more easily transportable than the larger case but large enough to provide the user with sufficient storage options and space to transport sufficient makeup, makeup tools, and at least one tool rest to allow the user to have multiple options for various cosmetic needs and to support multiple recipients of the makeup on occasions for the user. The intermediate size case provides the makeup, makeup tools, and instructions for a full face of coordinated makeup, and may contain a compartment to safely house and transport a smaller ferromagnetic case.
[0056] In another embodiment, a smaller ferromagnetic case may be stylized, shaped, and sized for use as a purse or clutch in addition to a case for transporting very specific makeup and makeup tools to facilitate a user's touching up or freshening makeup during an event or evening out. The smaller magnetic case may be complimentary sized and shaped to frictionally fit within a sub-compartment in an intermediate sized case. Such a smaller ferromagnetic case may have one or more compartments that have ferromagnetic materials integrated or constructed therein to permit the safe storage of makeup and makeup tools, as well as having magnets integral to its external construction that are orientated to cooperate with a portion of the ferromagnetic material of the intermediate case for a more secured fit.
[0057] The special relationship between an intermediate-sized case and at least one smaller-sized case of the present invention allows for the secured transport of the smaller case within the intermediate case, providing the user with the option for transporting at least one fashionable multipurpose handbag along with multiple cosmetic options that will support a user's needs when away from the larger magnetic case.
[0058] The smaller case, whether used alone or in cooperation with intermediate or larger cases, facilitates the user's selection and transportation of a few specific makeup pieces and/or makeup tools for when the user is on the go or carrying a handbag.
[0059] In another currently-preferred embodiment, the ferromagnetic element is disposed in the first compartment section behind the mirror opposed to the second compartment section. Preferably, the cosmetic tools each comprise a fixed magnet element in a handle thereof and are disposed in the first compartment section where they are positively retained by attraction of their individual magnets to the ferromagnetic element. Preferably, the cosmetics are disposed in the second compartment section. The cosmetics may or may not comprise magnets in their individual containers.
[0060] In another embodiment, the smaller case is a clutch or purse that comprises a single compartment section for holding both cosmetics and cosmetics tools. Each cosmetic tool comprises a fixed magnet element, and the base of the single compartment section comprises a ferromagnetic element. The clutch has a folding lid and may include a makeup mirror. Preferably, the cosmetics as well as the tools comprise magnets in their individual containers that cooperate with the compartment's ferromagnetic element to safeguard against shifting, damage and contamination of its contents during transport by the user.
[0061] Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 7, a third embodiment of an all-inclusive system for organizing, storing, transporting, and using cosmetics and cosmetic tools in accordance with the present invention comprises a carrying case 210 having preferably a split single compartment section 212 divided into sub-compartments 212a and 212b similar to compartment section 112 in container 110. A hinged lid 216 closes compartment section 212 via hinge 213. Tools and cosmetics may be similar or identical to those in second embodiment 110.
[0062] Carrying case 210 is configured as an attachable carrying case for a cellular telephone 200. First and second longitudinal flanges 220a, 220b are curved inwards to grip cellular telephone 200 when inserted there between. Referring now to FIG. 8, an exemplary cosmetics brush 22 comprises a handle 36 formed of wood or plastic retaining at a first end a cluster of bristles 38 and at a second and opposite end a pick 28. Permanent magnet 24 may be attached as by glue to the outer surface of or encapsulated within handle 36 as described above.
[0063] In another embodiment, an in-process tool rest is provided for magnet-containing cosmetics and makeup tools, which comprises a flexible ferromagnetic element in the form of a band or other flat flexible or molded surface that would allow the receiving surface of the tool rest to be worn by the user e.g., on the user's wrist, arm, or leg as part of a band or with the assistance of straps or as a piece of ferromagnetic jewelry or on the user's waist as part of or an attachment to a belt.
[0064] Referring now to FIGS. 10 and 11, any of first, second, and third embodiments 10,110 and 210 may further comprise a separable and portable tool rest for holding magnetic tools 22 and/or cosmetics 26 during use thereof by an operator, or the separable tool rest may be provided independently of embodiments 109,110,210. FIG. 10 shows a first tool rest 300 in the form of a bracelet comprising a ferromagnetic strip 310 formed to fit around a user's wrist, secured by first and second strap members 312a, 312b and a clasp or buckle 314. FIG. 11 shows a second tool rest 400 in the form of a work belt comprising a ferromagnetic strip 410 formed to fit around a user's waist, secured by first and second strap members 412a, 412 b and a clasp or buckle 414.
[0065] In addition to tool rests 300 and 400, wall and counter mounted ferromagnetic tool rests (not depicted) may be additionally integrated into the present all-inclusive system for organizing, storing, transporting, and using interchangeable cosmetics and cosmetic tools of the invention. Specifically, in another embodiment, an in-process tool rest for magnet-containing cosmetics tools comprises a ferromagnetic element such as a sheet metal element. The receiver may be formed to stand independently on or be temporarily or permanently fixed to or integrally constructed with a work surface such as a counter or wall mounted receptacle, or as part of a makeup mirror.
[0066] Various changes may be made to the structure embodying the principles of the invention. The foregoing embodiments are set forth in an illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The scope of the invention is defined by the claims appended hereto.
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