MULTI-SIDED INTEGRATED COSMETIC APPLICATOR

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application No. 63/736,694 filed on 20 Dec. 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a multi sided, modular, integrated cosmetic, applicator, having internal components that are customizable by a user. The consumer is able to choose the type of cosmetic product contained in each segment, such that each segment is distinct and personalized to the consumer choice. The three product-containing components are assembled and secured to create one permanent applicator, with the completed unit containing three customizable products, each containing cosmetics connected by a secure mechanism.

BACKGROUND

Consumers increasingly seek streamlined solutions for their personal care routines, valuing portability, efficiency, and simplicity. Conventional multi-purpose cosmetic products and applicators do not adequately address these demands, often sacrificing functionality, customizability, or product performance.

Conventional cosmetic applicators contain rigid pre-selected product choices. If a user would like multiple products or multiple shades of multiple products, then the user would need to purchase that many different products. A need for an efficient, cost-effective, and integrated cosmetic applicator is desired. Specifically, an improved cosmetic applicator is desired that integrates multiple cosmetic products into a single applicator.

SUMMARY

Disclosed herein is a modular three-in-one cosmetic applicator configured to simplify beauty routines, enhance portability, and amplify functionality of cosmetic products. The disclosure provides a multifunctional cosmetic applicator combining three distinct products into a single compact device. Various products customizable by the user are integrated into a single, compact, modular device.

A multi-sided integrated cosmetic applicator is disclosed, the cosmetic applicator comprising a first segment containing a first cosmetic product at a first end and a second end having a first segment opening; a second segment adjacent the first segment, the second segment containing a second cosmetic product adjacent the first segment opening, and the second segment containing a third cosmetic product disposed opposite the second cosmetic product; and first and second end caps disposed at outermost ends of the cosmetic applicator configured to cover the first segment and the second segment.

A multi-sided integrated cosmetic applicator is disclosed, the cosmetic applicator comprising a first segment containing a first cosmetic product and being covered by a first end cap at a first side and the first segment end being opposite a second side, the second side having an opening disposed opposite the first cosmetic product; a second segment containing a second cosmetic product of the consumer's choice and a third cosmetic product also of the consumer's choice, the second segment being detachably connected to the first segment; and first and second end caps disposed at outermost ends of the cosmetic applicator, wherein the first end cap is configured to cover the first cosmetic product and the second end cap is configured to cover the third cosmetic product. The second segment is configurable to be received in the second side of the first segment such that the opening connects to and surrounds the second cosmetic product.

A multi-sided integrated cosmetic applicator is disclosed having a first segment containing a first cosmetic product at a first end and a second end having a first segment opening; a second segment adjacent the first segment, the second segment containing a second cosmetic product adjacent the first segment opening, and the second segment containing a third cosmetic product disposed opposite the second cosmetic product; and first and second end caps disposed at outermost ends of the cosmetic applicator configured to cover the first segment and the second segment. The first segment opening has a first diameter that is larger than the end of the second segment and configured to receive at least part of second segment therein. The first end cap is configured to cover the first cosmetic product, the first segment is configured to cover a first end of the second segment and the second cosmetic product, and the second end cap is configured to cover a second end of the second segment and the third cosmetic product

A method of applying cosmetics with a cosmetic applicator wherein the cosmetic applicator has a housing containing a plurality of modular, stackable components, including first and second end caps and first and second segments. The method includes the following steps: selecting a first cosmetic product to be contained in the first segment and detachably connecting the first segment at a first end with the first end cap; selecting a second cosmetic product to be contained in the second segment and detachably connecting an open end of the first segment to the second segment; selecting a third cosmetic product to be contained in the second segment and detachably connecting the third cosmetic product with the second end cap, whereby the first segment is detachably connected to the second segment.

A method of manufacturing a multi-sided integrated cosmetic applicator, the method including the following steps: providing a cylindrical housing having a plurality of modular, stackable components, including first and second end caps and first and second segments; filling a first pod with a first cosmetic product and placing the first pod in the first segment and covering the first segment at a first end with the first end cap; filling a second pod with a second cosmetic product and placing the second pod in the second segment and detachably connecting an open end of the first segment to the second segment; and filling a third pod with a third cosmetic product and placing the third pod in the second segment and covering the third cosmetic product with the second end cap, whereby the first segment is detachably connected to the second segment.

A modular design allows for seamless integration of multiple cosmetic components, such as blush, bronzer, and highlighter, into one convenient unit. The flexible connection system permits adaptability for various configurations, supporting expansions into lip care, skincare, and therapeutic applications. Designed with scalability, convenience, and ease of use in mind, this innovative device provides a versatile solution to streamline personal care routines.

Disclosed herein is a three-in-one cosmetic applicator that resolves the challenges set forth in conventional cosmetic applicators by allowing the consumer to choose their desired shade or color, for example, of each of the three cosmetic products in the applicator. Each of the cosmetic containers includes at least one cosmetic selected by a consumer based on a variety of factors, for example, but not limited to, shade, formula, tone, intensity, strength. For example, if the cosmetic applicator includes three different cosmetics, and each cosmetic is offered in six different shades, then there would be 5,832 different possibilities of cosmetic shade combinations available to a user. Advantageously, the cosmetic applicator integrates three cosmetic products into a single modular system, resulting in a versatile platform that simplifies use without compromising quality.

A cosmetic applicator customizable in a stacked configuration is provided wherein core cosmetic products, such as blush, bronzer, and highlighter are advantageously consolidated into one modular device. The cosmetic device features an adaptable connection system that supports multiple assembly methods to connect modular components into a compact device. The configuration is such that additional personal care products, such as lip care, skincare, and beyond, may be incorporated into the modular, stackable device, while minimizing bulk and maximizing convenience for the user in a compact, ergonomic package.

The above described and other features are exemplified by the following figures and detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Refer now to the figures, which are exemplary embodiments, and wherein the like elements are numbered alike. The details of one or more aspects of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description. Other features, objects, and advantages of the cosmetic applicator described in the accompanying disclosure.

FIG. 1 is an overall view of the cosmetic applicator according to an exemplary embodiment with the endcaps attached;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the internal components of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 1 with the endcaps removed;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic applicator of FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIG. 3a is a perspective view of an end cap of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 1 showing the modular segments and their configurations, prior to adding cosmetics;

FIGS. 5 and 6 are exploded views of the modular components of the first and second stackable containers of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 1 prior to filling the segments with cosmetics;

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of a pod holder assembly of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 1 prior to loading cosmetics into the segments;

FIGS. 7a-7d are perspective view of individual components of FIG. 7; and

FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the pod holder assembly, makeup pod, and end cap of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference will be made in detail to the exemplary embodiments as illustrated in the attached drawings, in which like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the drawings. It should be noted, however, that the disclosure is not limited to the specific details.

As shown in FIG. 1, a cosmetic applicator or cosmetic stick 10 is a modular device including a plurality of segments that allow for a user to customize the various cosmetics that form the modular device. For assemblers, each cosmetic segment of the applicator is independently detachable and replaceable, allowing flexibility in product configuration that will ultimately be permanent for consumers. For consumers, each segment of the applicator is customizable and will arrive to them permanently constructed. The applicator 10 housing is constructed from lightweight, durable materials suitable to contain cosmetics therein. Appropriate applicator tips for the user to apply each of the cosmetic products may also be included.

Examples of cosmetic products that could be stored in the segments include but are not limited to, blush, bronzer, and highlighter. Additional cosmetic products that could be stored in the segments include lipstick, eyeshadow, deodorant, and other stick-based cosmetic products. The cosmetic applicator may also be used to contain skincare products, such as serums, moisturizers, or sunscreen. The segments could also be used to store therapeutic products, including but not limited to medicated ointments or CBD-infused skincare.

As seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, the cosmetic applicator 10 includes a plurality of modular, stackable segments, each configured to contain or cover cosmetic products disposed in a cylindrical housing. The independent segments are each configured to contain a distinct cosmetic product, and the independent segments are configured to be securely connected and detached, as needed. All of the primary segments are cylindrical, but could be represented by alternative geometric shapes, such as square, triangular, or oval, provided the resulting configuration is modular and the segments are stackable.

The primary segments include first and second endcaps 12, 14 to protect and cover the cosmetics contained in the cosmetic applicator 10; a first stackable cosmetic container 16; and a second stackable cosmetic container 18. Each of the stackable cosmetic containers 16, 18 is configured to securely contain cosmetics, the cosmetics being selected by a consumer based on a variety of factors, for example, but not limited to, shade, tone, intensity, strength. Each of the stackable cosmetic containers 16, 18 is covered by an endcap 12, 14 as seen in FIG. 1. The components are securely stacked and attached such that users are not required to manipulate complex mechanisms when accessing the various cosmetics selected for use in the cosmetic stick 10.

As seen in FIG. 3, each stackable cosmetic container 16, 18 is covered by an end cap 12, 14. The first segment or first stackable cosmetic container 16 is covered or connected at a first end 19 of the applicator by a first end cap 12. The second segment or second stackable cosmetic container 18 is covered or connected at a second end 17 of the applicator by a second end cap 14. The outward facing side 21 or first end of the first stackable cosmetic container 16 is covered by the end cap 12 with a friction fit or screw-based connection. The stackable cosmetic container 16 includes a cosmetic product 30 that the user is able to access and apply once the end cap 12 is removed. The first end 21 of the stackable cosmetic container 16 includes a first cosmetic product 30 filled therein. The second opposing end 27 of the stackable cosmetic container 16 is open and configured to receive an adjacent stackable cosmetic container 18. Thus, the first stackable cosmetic container 16 acts as a cap or cover for the second stackable cosmetic container 18. The second opposing end 27 of the first stackable cosmetic container 16 has a larger radius than the applicator end 21 of the first stackable cosmetic container 16 in order to receive a similarly configured and shaped applicator end 31 of the adjacent second stackable cosmetic container 18.

As seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, the second stackable cosmetic container 18 has an outer portion configured to be held by a user. Both ends 31, 39 of the second stackable cosmetic container 18 are configured to hold cosmetics to be applied by a user. The first cosmetic 30 is secured to the body or base 23 of the first stackable cosmetic container 16 via a screw fit and retractable applicator 25. A first end 31 of the second stackable cosmetic container 18 includes a second cosmetic 32 product filled therein, the second cosmetic 32 being selected by the user. The second cosmetic 32 is secured to the body or base 33 of the second stackable cosmetic container 18 via a screw fit and retractable applicator 35. A second end 39 of the second stackable cosmetic container 18 includes a third cosmetic 34 secured to the body 33 of the second stackable cosmetic container 18 via a screw fit and retractable applicator 37. Within the second segment or second cosmetic container 18, the second cosmetic 32 is facing a first direction and the third cosmetic 34 is facing a second direction, the second direction being opposite the first direction such that both the second and third cosmetics 32, 34 are outwardly facing with respect to the outer ends of the cosmetic stick 10.

As seen in FIG. 1, while the first end 31 of the second stackable cosmetic container 18 containing the second cosmetic 32 is received in the second opposing end of the first stackable container 16, the open end 27 of the first stackable container 16, the opposing second end 39 or applicator end of the second stackable cosmetic container 18 containing the third cosmetic product 34 is covered by the second end cap 14. With this configuration, the first end cap 12 covers the first cosmetic product 30, the first cosmetic container 16 covers the second cosmetic product 32, and the second end cap 14 covers the third cosmetic product 34. The connection between the end caps 12 and 14 and the stackable cosmetic containers is typically friction fit, but may be alternately connected, such that the caps are tightly connected to the first and second segments or stackable cosmetic containers 16, 18 and cover the cosmetic products 30, 34 contained therein to protect the cosmetics 30, 34 from being exposed in their respective compartment when the respective cosmetic is not in use. The bottom, open end of the first stackable cosmetic container 16 is configured to cover and secure the second cosmetic 32 when the second cosmetic 32 is not in use.

When in use, the first and second stackable containers 16, 18 may be held separately or jointly. The first stackable container 16 can be held by the user either on its own or in combination with the second stackable container 18 in order to apply the first cosmetic 30. Similarly, the second stackable container 18 can be held by the user either on its own or in combination with the first stackable container 16 in order to apply the second cosmetic 32, the third cosmetic 34, or both cosmetics 32, 34. The first stackable container 16 has an applicator end 21 for applying a first cosmetic 30 to a user. The second stackable container 18 has an applicator end 31 for applying a second cosmetic 32 to a user and an oppositely disposed applicator end 39 for applying a third cosmetic 34 to a user.

The second stackable cosmetic container 18 is identical in that the opposing ends each include a retractable cosmetic that is inserted based on a selection made by the user. Each cosmetic 32, 34 is secured in the second stackable cosmetic container 18 by a retractable base 35, 37. Retractable bases 35, 36 are secured at opposite ends of the base 33. One end of the second stackable cosmetic container 18 is secured and received via snap fit, friction fit, or a screw-fit by the open end of the first stackable cosmetic container 16 and the other opposite end of the second stackable cosmetic container 18 is secured and received via a snap fit, friction fit, or a screw-fit by the end cap 14, provided the cosmetics contained in the container 10 are covered and secured when not in use. The second stackable cosmetic container 18 is configured to be rotatable such that either end of the segment could be received in the opening end of the first segment. In this regard, the first applicator end 31 adjacent the second cosmetic 32 could be received in the first stackable container 16 and thereby adjacent to the first cosmetic 30 or the second applicator end 39 adjacent the third cosmetic 34 could be received in the first stackable container 16 and thereby adjacent the first cosmetic 30. With the latter arrangement, the second stackable cosmetic container 18 would be covered by the second end cap 14 at the first end 31 and by the first stackable container 16 at the second end 39 such that the third cosmetic 34 is disposed between the first cosmetic 30 and the second cosmetic 32. Accordingly, the second stackable cosmetic container 18 is configured to be rotatable and connected to the first cosmetic container 14 with either end of the second stackable container 18 being received in the second opposing end 27 of the first stackable cosmetic container 16.

The cosmetics are attached to the first and second segments in their respective bases as pods held securely to their respective bases with glue or adhesive. The pods may also be connected with a click fit or similar mechanical fit that does not involve adhesive. The cosmetics are each contained within an elevator mechanism and are retractable such that the user is able to move the cosmetics inwardly or outwardly with respect to the internal housing of the applicator with a swivel or rotational movement in order to move the cosmetics inward and outward with respect to the internal housing of the applicator in order to advance from the body of the containers 16, 18. The elevator mechanism, represented in an expanded view in FIG. 4, shows the internal components of an exemplary cosmetic container 18. As seen in FIG. 4, each cosmetic, selected and customized by user, is hotmelt or similar into the container 18. With container 18, for example, two customizable cosmetics are securely attached to both ends of the container 18. The cosmetics are securely attached to the housing and are retractable as explained below.

The elevator mechanism 40, as seen in use in FIG. 3 and further in FIGS. 7-7d, includes a base 42 represented in FIG. 7a, a shuttle guide 44 represented in FIG. 7b, a shuttle 46 represented in FIG. 7c, a shuttle actuator 48 represented in FIG. 7d, and a sleeve 50. The shuttle 46 has integral posts on two sides. The integral posts pass through the guide 44 and into helical channels of the actuator 48. The guide 44 is equipped with straight slots configured to receive the shuttle 46. As the actuator 48 rotates, the integral posts are forced along the helical path, pushing the shuttle 46 inwardly or outwardly depending on the rotational direction, the inward or outward direction with respect to the interior of the applicator 10. The shuttle 46 is unable to rotate because the integral posts also pass through the linear slots in the guide 44. The sleeve is cylindrical and configured to attach to the shuttle actuator. With this configuration, all of the rotational motion that the actuator 48 imparts on the shuttle 46 is converted into a linear motion.

As seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, each cosmetic applicator or stick 10 includes three primary segments: end caps, a first stackable cosmetic container, and a second stackable cosmetic container. One of the stackable containers 16, 18 preferably includes two cosmetics that are outwardly or oppositely facing, as seen in FIGS. 2 and 3. The first stackable cosmetic container 16 includes a first cosmetic 30 and is covered by the first end cap 12. The second stackable cosmetic container 18 is covered at a first end 31 by the first stackable cosmetic container 16 and contains a second cosmetic 32 and is covered at a second end 33 containing a third cosmetic 34 by the second end cap 14. The first and second stackable containers 16, 18 are centrally disposed such that they are stackable with each other and covered at their outer ends by the end caps 12, 14. If the overall shape of the cosmetic applicator 10 or stick is not circular, but is instead any other geometric shape, then the stackable containers 16, 18 and parts contained therein would still be disposed such that they are stackable and the entire cosmetic applicator 10 is modular.

At least one of the centrally disposed segments, the first stackable cosmetic container 16 or the second stackable cosmetic container 18 in addition to containing a cosmetic product 30, 32, 34 may also include an accessory such as a brush. It is also possible for one or both of the stackable cosmetic containers 16, 18 to include applicator tips for the cosmetic products 30, 32, 34 to be applied by and/or onto the user.

The components of the cosmetic stick or cosmetic applicator 10 are assembled in a stackable configuration, such that the first end cap 12 is immediately adjacent the central segments, which include a first stackable cosmetic container 16 and a second stackable cosmetic container 18, and the outermost stackable cosmetic container is immediately adjacent to the second end cap 14. With this configuration, the first stackable cosmetic container 16 is securely covered by a removable first end cap 12, represented in FIGS. 3a and 6, and contains a first cosmetic product 30 therein. The cosmetic product 30 is contained in the first stackable cosmetic container 16 by a screw-based connection 25 permitting the first cosmetic product 30 to be retractable in the first end segment 12. The second stackable cosmetic container 18, also represented in FIG. 5, is securely covered by the first stackable cosmetic container 16 at a first end and the removable second end cap 14 at the opposing, second end. The second stackable cosmetic container 18 contains two cosmetic products 32, 34, whereby each product 32, 34 is contained in the second stackable cosmetic container 18 by a screw-based connection 35, 37 permitting the two cosmetic products 32, 34 to be retractable into the central segment.

In order to access the cosmetics, the user removes at least one of the end caps 12, 14 to uncover the cosmetic product contained in one of the stackable cosmetic containers 16, 18. Each of the cosmetic products 30, 32, 34 are covered by a tightly fit cap, such as a snap fit cap, whether it be the end caps 12, 14 at the outermost ends of the container 10 or the open housing and receiving well 27 of the adjacent stackable cosmetic container 16. Once the desired cosmetic product 30, 32, 34 is exposed, then the user may twist the container 10 to move the product in a first or outward direction to access the product and apply the product to the user. Once the user has applied the cosmetic 30, 32, 34 and no longer needs to access the product contained therein, then the user is able to twist one or both of the stackable cosmetic containers 16, 18 and the base moves the cosmetic in a second or inward direction and covers the cosmetic by the friction fit or snap fit cap, either one of the end caps 12, 14 or the open housing of the stackable cosmetic container 16.

As seen in FIG. 8, as with FIGS. 7-7d, an elevator mechanism is also used to secure the makeup pod or cosmetic product 30 in the first stackable container 16. The pod holder assembly or rotational screw-based connection 25 is configured to contain the makeup pod 30. The removable first end cap 12 is configured with a screw fit, friction fit, or snap fit 52 (seen in FIG. 3a) to securely fit over the pod holder assembly 25. As with the elevator mechanism 40 explained in the foregoing, the cosmetic product is secured within the pod holder assembly 25 and configured to retract and rotatably move outwardly and inwardly in order for a user to access the selected product 30. As seen in FIG. 8, the mechanism 25 represents the elevator configuration having a base 42, a shuttle guide 44, a shuttle, a shuttle actuator, and a sleeve. Similarly, the rotational motion that the actuator 48 imparts on the shuttle is converted into a vertical linear motion to allow the first cosmetic product 30 to retract in order for the user to apply the cosmetic.

With this configuration, the first stackable cosmetic container 16 is securely covered by a removable first end cap 12, represented in FIG. 3a, and contains a first cosmetic product 30 therein. The cosmetic product 30 is contained in the first stackable cosmetic container 16 by a screw-based connection 25 permitting the first cosmetic product 30 to be retractable in the first end segment 12. The second stackable cosmetic container 18 is securely covered by the first stackable cosmetic container 16 at a first end and the removable second end cap 14 at the opposing, second end. The second stackable cosmetic container 18 contains two cosmetic products 32, 34, whereby each product 32, 34 is contained in the second stackable cosmetic container 18 by a screw-based connection 35, 37 permitting the two cosmetic products 32, 34 to be retractable into the central segment.

Advantageously, the cosmetic applicator 10 provides users a device for creating their own personalized configurations tailored to their routines. The applicator is a customizable stick-based device containing three cosmetic products. The three products may be three different products or a combination of products, including, but not limited to blush, bronzer, highlighter, lipstick, eyeshadow, deodorant, serums, moisturizers, sunscreen, medicated ointments, and CBD-infused skincare. By having three different products, such as blush, bronzer, and highlighter, a single applicator or makeup stick would provide a full makeup routine to the user. For example, a stick could contain bronzer/blush/highlighter in any shade offered, or blush/blush/highlighter in the consumers chosen shades, or any combination of product and shades desired, resulting in 5,832 unique stick combinations. The stick could also contain all three of the same products such that one stick includes a blush/blush/blush, for example.

Using the example of blush, bronzer, and highlighter, each of the selected cosmetic products is offered in a variety of shades. Each of the cosmetic products is selected from a group having at least four different colors or shades to complement a user. The three-in-one makeup stick offers a variety of options to suit individual skin tones. For example, seven shades for a first product, seven shades for a second product, and four shades for a third product provides 5,832 different combinations for a user to create in the single three-in-one stick. The customizable products and shades guarantee that the consumer is able to select the exact combination for their own use, resulting in a unique stick for each user. Moreover, the customizable stick results in less or no waste compared to conventional products that do not permit a consumer to choose their shade in each product offered in a conventional cosmetic stick. The disclosed cosmetic stick allows the consumer to select shades or variations of each offered product in order to be tailored to suited to individual skin tones and consumer style.

A method of making a customizable cosmetic stick includes providing a plurality of molds that connect to form the base container; filling each container with a cosmetic product selected by a user; and assembling the cosmetic stick into a friction-fit configuration whereby the cosmetics disposed in each container are stacked on top of each other.

A process for making a customizable cosmetic stick includes providing a plurality of pods; filling each of the cosmetic delivery pods with makeup; separating the pods into bins, such that like pods are stored in like bins; and compiling the cosmetic stick based on the customizable selections made by each user. For example, three different products offered in six different shades results in eighteen unique bins, wherein like pods are stored in their own bin. As explained above, a possible selection menu would include seven blush shades or seven shades of a first cosmetic, seven bronzer shades or seven shades of a second cosmetic, and four highlighter shades or four shades of a third cosmetic. The entire stick is assembled with hot glue or a similar adhesive. The stick may also be assembled such that the pods are connected with a click fit or similar mechanical fit that does not involve adhesive. Once the user selects their desired shades and customizes the three products that they have selected, the entire stick 10 is assembled. The pods containing the cosmetics are similar in that an adhesive combines the retractable base to the housing and the cosmetic pods are connected to the retractable base.

Advantageously, a user is able to combine individual components of the cosmetic stick 10 based on the preference of the user. Each cosmetic product is preloaded, thereby reducing clutter and enhancing convenience. The compact configuration of the three-in-one stick results in a compact design that fits easily into handbags, travel kits, thereby catering to modern, on-the-go lifestyles. Overall, the modular design of the cosmetic still provides a versatile platform.

The three segments shown in the exemplary embodiment are securely fitted to each other. Each segment is securely joined to an immediately adjacent segment, thereby allowing smooth transitions during. Other types of connection methods may be utilized, provided the cosmetic product contained in each segment is easily accessible to the user and kept clean and sanitary when the entire applicator is closed.

Each of the segments is constructed from lightweight, durable materials suitable for cosmetics. For example, high-grade polymers or bioplastics may be used to form the segments. The materials and manufacturing is compatible with mass manufacturing process, ensuring scalability and cost-efficiency of the cosmetic applicator 10.

In general, the invention may alternately comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, any appropriate components herein disclosed. The invention may additionally, or alternatively, be formulated so as to be devoid, or substantially free, of any components, materials, ingredients, adjuvants or species used in the prior art compositions or that are otherwise not necessary to the achievement of the function and/or objectives of the present invention.

The terms “first,” “second,” and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to denote one element from another. The terms “a” and “an” and “the” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, and are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The suffix “(s)” as used herein is intended to include both the singular and the plural of the term that it modifies, thereby including one or more of that term (e.g., the film(s) includes one or more films). Reference throughout the specification to “one embodiment”, “another embodiment”, “an embodiment”, and so forth, means that a particular element (e.g., feature, structure, and/or characteristic) described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment described herein, and may or may not be present in other embodiments. In addition, it is to be understood that the described elements may be combined in any suitable manner in the various embodiments.

With respect to the figures, it is noted that these figures (also referred to herein as “FIG.”) are merely schematic representations based on convenience and the ease of demonstrating the present disclosure, and are, therefore, not intended to indicate relative size and dimensions of the devices or components thereof and/or to define or limit the scope of the exemplary embodiments. Although specific terms are used in the description for the sake of clarity, these terms are intended to refer only to the particular structure of the embodiments selected for illustration in the drawings, and are not intended to define or limit the scope of the disclosure. In the drawings and the description herein, it is to be understood that like numeric designations refer to components of like function.

While particular embodiments have been described, alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and substantial equivalents that are or may be presently unforeseen may arise to applicants or others skilled in the art. Accordingly, the appended claims as filed and as they may be amended are intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications variations, improvements, and substantial equivalents.