EP1726235A2 - Storing and applying device - Google Patents

Abstract

The device has a product applicator comprising an application unit (6) including plastic material branches that rejoin at their ends. The branches of the unit (6) define a cavity between them, where the cavity opens out on a side of the unit (6). The cavity extends along the branches and the branches are rigid for preventing the cavity from deformation between the moment in which the unit (6) dispenses the product and the moment in which the product is applied. An independent claim is also included for a method for make-up of skin or lips by utilizing a cosmetic product packaging and application device.

Description

The present invention relates to the applicators of cosmetic products, including care products.

We know by the patent EP 0 792 602-B1 a product applicator comprising a flexible support forming an applicator part, at least partially covered with at least one layer of spongy material. Such an applicator is used differently from conventional applicators comprising an applicator member disposed at the end of a rod and in which the product loading of the applicator member is carried out by immersion in a container possibly provided with a wringing member.

We know by the patent US 6,120,202 a device for simultaneously producing two decorative patterns on the nails, comprising an applicator having two rods each provided at one end of an applicator member provided with a circular recess.

The patent application EP 0 875 169-A1 discloses an applicator having an applicator member having a flocked foam block at one end. The lateral surface of the applicator member is striated.

The patent European EP 0 824 329-B1 discloses a packaging and application device comprising a wiper member consisting at least partially of a cellular material. In an exemplary embodiment, the applicator member is in the form of a hollow body having a cavity adapted to house a reserve of product.

The patent application French FR 2 771 077 also discloses a packaging device and application comprising a wiper member formed at least in part by a porous material elastically deformable. In an exemplary embodiment, the applicator member has slots that are sufficiently narrow so that the wiper member can hardly reach them, making it possible to preserve a reserve of product inside the applicator member after spinning. .

It is also known from the patent European EP 1 053 695-B1 an applicator comprising an applicator member that can deform on crossing the wiper member. The application surface is relatively narrow and the comfort to the application is not entirely satisfactory.

The patent application EP 0 693 263-A1 discloses an applicator comprising a rod at the end of which is disposed a compound application member a loop whose two ends are connected separately to the rod. Such an applicator is more particularly intended for the application of nail polish and the rod has a flexibility close to that of the applicator member.

It is known from the patent application US 2002/0005209 an applicator for applying a product on the eyelashes or eyebrows having branches joined at their ends and carrying projecting elements that can be flocked.

The patent US 4,974,980 discloses an application element whose cross section fits into that of the rod when the applicator is observed along the longitudinal axis of the rod. In other words, the application element does not protrude laterally from the rod.

The present invention aims to provide a new applicator to achieve a neat makeup, comfortable to use, and able to store a relatively large amount of product.

• un récipient contenant le produit à appliquer,
• un applicateur pour appliquer le produit contenu dans le récipient,

l'applicateur comportant une tige et un élément d'application à une extrémité de la tige, l'élément d'application présentant de préférence une forme générale aplatie, comportant au moins deux branches en matière plastique, de préférence en matière plastique injectée, se rejoignant à leurs extrémités et définissant entre elles une cavité débouchant à l'extérieur, par exemple au moins sur une face de l'élément d'application servant à l'application du produit, l'une au moins des branches étant au moins partiellement floquée, la cavité étant de forme allongée et s'étendant le long des branches, les branches étant suffisamment rigides pour empêcher la cavité de se déformer sensiblement entre le moment où l'élément d'application quitte le produit et le moment où le produit est appliqué. L'absence de déformation sensible de la cavité permet d'éviter de chasser le produit de celle-ci. Les branches de l'élément d'application peuvent ne pas se déformer sensiblement à l'application du produit, le cas échéant.According to one of its aspects, the subject of the invention is a device for packaging and application comprising:

• a container containing the product to be applied,
• an applicator for applying the product contained in the container,

the applicator comprising a rod and an applicator element at one end of the rod, the applicator element preferably having a generally flattened shape, comprising at least two branches of plastic material, preferably injected plastic material, joining at their ends and defining between them a cavity opening outwards, for example at least on one side of the application element for the application of the product, at least one of the branches being at least partially flocked the cavity being of elongated shape and extending along the branches, the branches being sufficiently rigid to prevent the cavity from being deformed substantially between the moment the applicator element leaves the product and the moment when the product is applied . The absence of significant deformation of the cavity makes it possible to avoid driving the product out of it. The branches of the application element may not deform appreciably to the application of the product, if any.

When the applicator element passes through a wiper member between the moment when it leaves the product and the moment when the composition is applied, the absence of deformation of the cavity can result from the use of an organ sufficient spin flexible to not unduly deform the application element, for example a wiper member having a corrugated lip, or may result from a particular setting of an adjustable wiper member. In this case, a different setting of the wiper member may cause a possible deformation of the cavity.

When the applicator element passes through a wiper member between the moment when it leaves the product and that where the product is applied, the absence of deformation of the cavity can result from a wiper member that is sufficiently flexible to not unduly stress the application element, for example a wiper member having a corrugated lip, or a particular setting of the wiper member when it is adjustable. In the latter case, for another adjustment of the wiper member, a possible deformation of the cavity can take place.

At least one of the branches may have a flocking coating on at least half of its length, for example, better along its entire length.

The cavity may be completely or not filled with product before application. The product present in the cavity can come directly into contact with the surface to be treated.

The product may be liquid, being for example intended for application to the lips, skin, or integuments. The product may also be solid or powdery, being for example in the form of a loaf, to moisten or not to allow the removal of the product.

The product can be packaged in a container provided with a wiper member, which is for example made of a non-cellular material, for example an elastomer, which can allow to leave more product in the cavity. The wiper member comprises for example one or more slots.

The cavity can provide a reserve of product providing additional autonomy to the application element or easier to deposit a larger amount of product, to enhance a makeup effect, for example the color or brightness of a product applied to the lips, for example the gloss of a lip gloss. The application can still take place on the integuments, in particular the eyelashes and / or the eyebrows, for the care or makeup of these.

When only a portion of the application element is flocked, this may allow for example the user to select the branch, the end, the side or the face of the application element which is flocked or not depending on the desired makeup result.

At least one of the branches may have, in cross section, an at least partially rounded shape. Such a shape can improve application comfort and reduce the risk that movement of the applicator element over the area to be removed removes previously applied product. At least one of the branches may for example have in cross section a circular, oval or elliptical shape. As a variant, at least one of the branches may have a substantially triangular, square or rectangular cross-sectional shape.

The branches may each have a substantially rectilinear longitudinal axis or curvilinear, possibly corrugated.

At least one of the branches may have a dimension, in cross section, greater than the width of the cavity, for example a width or height greater than the width of the cavity.

The cavity may have a maximum width greater than the diameter of the rod.

The application element, or even the entire applicator, may be devoid of metal, which allows for example its passage in a microwave oven.

The shape of the application element may depend in particular on the region of the body or face on which the product is to be applied.

For lips for example, the cavity may advantageously extend substantially parallel to a plane forming a non-zero angle with the longitudinal axis of a rod to which the applicator element is connected. At least a portion of the applicator element can thus be elongated along a longitudinal axis that forms a non-zero angle with the longitudinal axis of the support rod. The longitudinal axis of the applicator element may be substantially coaxial with that of the rod which carries the applicator element.

The application element may have a symmetrical envelope surface of revolution or not. The applicator element may have a symmetrical shape relative to a median plane, in particular a median plane containing the longitudinal axis of the support rod. The latter can be connected, at the end opposite to that carrying the applicator element, to a closing cap of the container.

Starting from the rod to which the applicator element is connected, the width of the applicator element can grow and then decrease towards the distal end of the applicator element.

The width of the applicator element can thus be greater, at least one point of its length, or even more than a quarter or half of its length, to the diameter of the rod. The applicator element may comprise at least one longitudinal side that is offset laterally outwardly relative to the rod. The applicator element thus protrudes laterally from the rod on at least one side.

The applicator element may protrude laterally from the rod, either because of its width which exceeds that of the rod and / or the direction in which it extends.

The distance from which the applicator element protrudes from the stem may for example correspond to the length of the flocking hairs or be greater.

The thickness of material around the cavity, at least in the distal half of the applicator element, may be non-constant, for example because of a thicker region formed at the junction of the branches.

The application element may have a single tip centered on a medial axis, giving more precision to the makeup.

The applicator element may be devoid of elongated reliefs such as pins or teeth made by molding with the branches of the applicator element and connecting thereto.

The container may comprise, as mentioned above, an attached wiper member, which is for example fixed in the neck of the container. In a variant, the container does not have a wiper member. A smaller cross section of the opening of the container may be circular, whether or not the container has an added wiper.

Fixation of the applicator element on the rod can be carried out in various ways and the application element can include a fastening tip engaged in the rod. The applicator element may comprise a tip crimped into the rod or snapped in or on it. Rather than being attached to the rod, the application element can be made at least partially in one piece with the rod.

The rod may have an outer diameter greater than or equal to 2.5 mm, better than or equal to 3 mm, in particular of the order of about 4 mm, which gives it a certain rigidity and can increase the precision of the makeup.

The cavity may extend over more than half the width of the applicator element.

The cavity can be traversed over more than half the length of the cavity. When the cavity is not through and the application element comprises a diaphragm molded integrally with the branches or attached thereto, the thickness of the membrane may be less than or equal to 1 mm, by example.

The cavity may have a non-constant width and, for example, a generally triangular shape.

The width of the cavity may be less than the width of the two branches together.

The cavity may extend over more than half the length of the applicator element.

The application element may have magnetic properties, in particular magnetic particles.

The application element may comprise proximal and distal portions shaped to facilitate the crossing of the wiper member, when it is present. The distal portion may for example be tapered in a direction opposite to the stem.

The application element may comprise more than two branches, including at least one branch of longitudinal axis not parallel to the longitudinal axis of the application element.

The invention further relates, in another of its aspects, the applicator considered in isolation, independently of the container and the wiper member which is optionally associated. Such an applicator is for example intended to be associated with a reserve of product that is not necessarily contained in a container having a neck through which the applicator must be introduced. The product reserve is for example a mass of product in the form of bread or compacted powder, possibly contained in a cup.

In particular when the product is intended for application to keratin fibers, for example eyelashes or eyebrows, the two branches of the element for example, have different shapes, for example. It may be the same when the product is intended for application to the lips, for the care or makeup thereof.

One of the branches is for example thicker, which may allow to decenter the cavity. The latter can be unique.

The cavity may have a relatively elongated shape, with an m / n ratio for example greater than or equal to 3, or 4, or 5 or 6, where m denotes the length of the cavity and n its widest width. A relatively narrow shape of the cavity may promote retention of the product, for example.

The width of the cavity may pass through an extremum between its two free ends, this extremum being for example a maximum. The cavity may extend along a longitudinal axis that is not coincidental with that of the stem, for example parallel but offset or curvilinear.

The branches may have a longitudinal outer edge convex outwardly, or concave outwards, or substantially rectilinear over a fraction at least of its length, for example about halfway length.

The application element may comprise a first branch having an outer edge at least partially convex towards the outside and a second branch having an outer edge at least partially concave or rectilinear.

The application element may also comprise, in a variant, a first branch having an outer edge at least partially concave outwards and a second branch having an outer edge at least partially concave outwards or rectilinearly.

The outer edge of at least one of the branches may be at least partially grooved.

The branches can be molded together in a thermoplastic material and be flocked at least partially after molding.

The branches meet, on the side of the stem, before reaching the latter, when one moves in the direction of the stem.

The application element may comprise flocking hairs having different lengths and / or diameters, with for example longer hairs in the vicinity. of the distal end of the applicator element, which can make it possible to make up short eyelashes. The bristles can be of different materials.

• un récipient contenant le produit,
• un applicateur pour appliquer le produit sur les cils et/ou les sourcils, cet applicateur comportant :
  • une tige,
  • un élément d'application à l'extrémité de la tige,

l'élément d'application comportant au moins deux branches en matière plastique, de préférence en matière plastique injectée, réunies à leurs extrémités et définissant entre elles une cavité, l'élément d'application étant dépourvu de reliefs de forme allongée tels que des picots ou dents, formant saillie entre les branches.The invention further relates, in another of its aspects, a device for packaging and applying a product on the eyelashes and / or eyebrows, comprising:

• a container containing the product,
• an applicator for applying the product to the eyelashes and / or the eyebrows, this applicator comprising:
  • a rod,
  • an application element at the end of the rod,

the applicator element comprising at least two branches made of plastic material, preferably injected plastic material, joined at their ends and defining a cavity therebetween, the applicator element being devoid of elongated reliefs such as pimples or teeth, protruding between the branches.

Such a device offers several possibilities of makeup or treatment of the eyelashes and / or eyebrows, for example an application of the product on the side using one of the branches of the applicator only or a product application flat using both branches. The branches can be two in number. The branches can be unstriated.

Such an applicator may or may not be flocked, for example with a mixture of bristles, in particular bristles of different diameter and / or lengths. The flocking may in particular extend over at least one of the branches, for example over substantially its entire length. The flocking hairs can still be made of different materials. A distal portion of the applicator element may thus comprise, for example, a flocking with longer hairs and / or a greater density of hair, in order to facilitate the makeup of short eyelashes.

• une tige,
• un élément d'application ayant une première extrémité fixée à la tige et une deuxième extrémité libre,
• au moins trois branches réalisées par moulage de matière plastique et recouvertes au moins partiellement d'un flocage.

Another subject of the invention, according to another of its aspects, is an applicator comprising:

• a rod,
• an application member having a first end attached to the rod and a second free end,
• at least three branches made by plastic molding and at least partially covered with a flocking.

The distance between the first and second ends may be constant. The three branches define between them a cavity which can be filled with product.

Such an applicator is used for example for makeup or care of the skin, mucous membranes or integuments.

According to another of its aspects, the subject of the invention is also a process for making up the skin or the lips by means of a device as defined above, in which a product is applied to the skin or to the lips. means of an applicator comprising a rod and an applicator element at one end of the rod, the applicator element comprising at least two branches made of plastic material, in particular injected plastic material, of which at least one branch at least partially flocked, the branches joining at their ends and defining between them a cavity opening outward at least on one side of the application element for the application of the product, the cavity being of elongated shape and extending along the branches, the branches being sufficiently rigid to prevent the cavity from deforming substantially between the time when the application element leaves the product and the moment when the product is applied. ated.

• la figure 1 est une coupe longitudinale, schématique et partielle, d'un dispositif de conditionnement et d'application réalisé conformément à l'invention,
• la figure 2 représente isolément l'élément d'application de la figure 1,
• la figure 3 est une section transversale selon III-III de la figure 2,
• la figure 4 est une vue de côté dans la direction de la flèche IV de la figure 2,
• la figure 5 est une coupe longitudinale de l'élément d'application, selon V-V de la figure 4,
• la figure 6 représente isolément la partie supérieure d'une variante de réalisation du récipient de la figure 1,
• la figure 7 illustre l'utilisation de l'applicateur pour appliquer un produit sur les lèvres,
• la figure 8 illustre la possibilité d'utiliser un organe d'essorage réalisé au moins partiellement dans un matériau alvéolaire,
• la figure 9 est une section transversale selon IX-IX de la figure 8, de l'organe d'essorage représenté isolément,
• la figure 10 représente partiellement et en vue de face une variante de réalisation de l'organe d'essorage,
• les figures 11 à 13 sont des vues analogues à la figure 5 illustrant différents modes de fixation de l'élément d'application sur la tige,
• les figures 14 à 17 sont des vues analogues à la figure 2 de variantes de réalisation de l'élément d'application,
• les figures 18 à 25 et 27 sont des sections analogues à la figure 3 de variantes de réalisation,
• la figure 26 est une vue analogue à la figure 2 d'une variante de réalisation,
• la figure 28 représente en vue de côté un élément d'application conforme à une variante de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 29 représente l'élément d'application de la figure 28 en vue de dessus,
• les figures 30 à 41 représentent en vue de dessus d'autres exemples d'éléments d'application,
• les figures 42 et 43 représentent de manière schématique, en perspective, des éléments d'application à trois branches,
• les figures 44 et 45 sont des sections transversales respectivement selon XLIV et XLV des figures 42 et 43,
• la figure 46 est une coupe longitudinale d'une variante de réalisation de l'applicateur,
• la figure 47 représente un ensemble réalisé conformément à un aspect de l'invention,
• la figure 48 est une vue de dessus de variante de réalisation d'un élément d'application,
• la figure 49 est une vue de dessous de l'élément d'application de la figure 48,
• la figure 50 représente l'élément d'application en élévation,
• la figure 51 est une coupe selon LI-LI de la figure 48,
• la figure 52 représente, de manière schématique, en coupe longitudinale, une variante de réalisation du récipient, et
• la figure 53 représente, de manière schématique et en coupe longitudinale, une variante de réalisation de l'organe d'essorage.

The invention will be better understood on reading the following detailed description, non-limiting examples of implementation thereof, and on examining the appended drawing, in which:

• FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic and partial longitudinal section of a packaging and application device produced in accordance with the invention;
• FIG. 2 represents in isolation the application element of FIG. 1,
• FIG. 3 is a cross-section along III-III of FIG. 2,
• FIG. 4 is a side view in the direction of the arrow IV of FIG. 2,
• FIG. 5 is a longitudinal section of the application element, according to VV of FIG. 4,
• FIG. 6 represents in isolation the upper part of an alternative embodiment of the container of FIG. 1,
• FIG. 7 illustrates the use of the applicator for applying a product to the lips,
• FIG. 8 illustrates the possibility of using a wiper member made at least partially of a cellular material,
• FIG. 9 is a cross-section along IX-IX of FIG. 8, of the wringing member shown in isolation,
• FIG. 10 partially and in front view shows an alternative embodiment of the wiper member,
• FIGS. 11 to 13 are views similar to FIG. 5 illustrating different modes of attachment of the applicator element on the rod,
• FIGS. 14 to 17 are views similar to FIG. 2 of variant embodiments of the application element,
• FIGS. 18 to 25 and 27 are sections similar to FIG. 3 of variant embodiments,
• FIG. 26 is a view similar to FIG. 2 of an alternative embodiment;
• FIG. 28 shows a side view of an application element according to an alternative embodiment of the invention,
• FIG. 29 represents the applicator element of FIG. 28 in plan view,
• FIGS. 30 to 41 show a top view of other examples of application elements,
• FIGS. 42 and 43 show diagrammatically, in perspective, three-branch application elements,
• FIGS. 44 and 45 are transverse sections respectively according to XLIV and XLV of FIGS. 42 and 43,
• FIG. 46 is a longitudinal section of an alternative embodiment of the applicator,
• FIG. 47 represents an assembly made according to one aspect of the invention,
• FIG. 48 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of an application element,
• FIG. 49 is a view from below of the application element of FIG. 48,
• FIG. 50 represents the elevation application element,
• FIG. 51 is a section along LI-LI of FIG. 48,
• FIG. 52 schematically represents, in longitudinal section, an alternative embodiment of the container, and
• Figure 53 shows schematically and in longitudinal section, an alternative embodiment of the wiper member.

The device 1 for packaging and application shown in Figure 1 comprises a container 2 containing a product P to be applied and an applicator 3 having a rod 4 of longitudinal axis X, provided at one end with a gripping element 5 also constituting a sealing cap of the container 2 and at the other end of an applicator element 6.

In the illustrated example, the axis X of the rod 4 is rectilinear but it could be curved, alternatively.

The container 2 is provided in the upper part with a neck 7 without wiper member reported.

The gripping element 5 is screwed on the neck 7 but could alternatively be fixed differently, for example by snapping.

In the example illustrated, the application element 6 has, as can be seen in FIG. 5, a generally symmetrical shape with respect to a median plane of symmetry M and comprises a cavity 12 which is delimited laterally by two branches. 13 and axially by distal portions 14 and proximal 15 joining the branches 13. The latter are elongated along respective longitudinal axes Y which extend substantially parallel to a plane B, as can be seen in Figure 4, which makes with the axis X of the rod 4 an angle α which is for example between about 20 ° and about 30 °. The angle β between each Y axis and the median plane of symmetry M is for example between 5 and 45 °, as can be seen in FIG.

The branches 13 and the distal 14 and proximal portions 15 are made by plastic injection and covered with a flocking. The distal portion 14 defines a single tip centered on a median axis.

The application element 6 protrudes laterally from the rod 4, when the latter is observed along its axis. The shape of the distal 14 and proximal portions 15 is advantageously chosen so as to facilitate the crossing of the opening 11 of the container 2. The proximal portion 15 may thus comprise edges 60, adjacent to the stem 4, extending obliquely relative to the X axis, and the distal portion 14 may have a generally tapered shape.

In the example considered, the branches 13 converge towards each other towards the distal portion 14 and the cavity 12 has, when the application element 6 is observed in elevation, a substantially triangular shape.

The cavity 12 extends for example, as can be seen in Figures 2 and 5 in particular, over more than a quarter of the width b of the applicator element 6 and more than a quarter of its length l. The dimensions of the cavity 12 may be chosen as a function of the quantity of product that it is desired to possibly retain, particularly by capillarity, in the cavity 12 after removal of the applicator from the container.

In the variant illustrated in FIG. 6, a wiper member 8 is engaged in the neck 7. This wiper member 8 comprises a flange 9 resting on the upper edge of the neck 7 and a wiper lip 10 defining in the example considered a wiper orifice 11 of circular section, of diameter a, for example substantially equal to that of the rod 4. The latter has a diameter generally greater than 2.5 mm, for example of the order of 4 mm.

The wiper member 8 may be sufficiently flexible so that the application element 6 can be extracted without significant deformation of the cavity 12.

The product P present in the cavity 12 increases the autonomy of the applicator and can also improve comfort on application, facilitating the sliding of the applicator on the treated surface.

The product P is for example intended to be applied to the lips and the user can deposit it on them by bringing for example the rear face 20 of the applicator element 6 to their contact, as shown in FIG. In the example considered, the rear face 20 corresponds to that which is situated on the rear side when the application element 6 is observed with the branches 13 extending towards the front.

During the application, depending on the surface of the applicator element 6 in contact with the treated zone, the deposited product thickness may be different, which may allow the user to vary, for example, the brightness of the makeup.

When the application element 6 is applied flat, the product P present in the cavity 12 can be deposited and the product-laden surface P coming into contact with the lips can be relatively large, so that the lips can be made up pretty quickly.

If necessary, the application can be made only with the end of the distal portion 15, to draw an outline for example.

FIG. 8 illustrates the possibility of using an attached wiper member 8 other than that shown in FIG.

In Figure 8, the wiper member 8 is constituted by a block of a cellular material, elastically compressible.

The wiper member 8 may be traversed at its center by a recess 42 defining the opening 11 of the container, as can be seen in Figure 9, with one or more slots.

The diameter of the recess 42 may for example correspond substantially to that of the rod 4.

The wiper member may still, regardless of its nature, alveolar or not, have one or more slots, which may be contiguous edges or not.

FIG. 10 shows an elastomer wiper member 8 having a central opening, for example a circular opening, for the passage of the rod and of the applicator element, and a plurality of slots 100, which may be radial.

Fixing the application element 6 on the rod 4 can be effected by various means.

In the example of FIG. 1, the proximal portion 15 is extended, as can be seen in FIG. 5, by a tip 18 engaged inside the rod 4.

This tip 18 is for example glued, stapled or welded in the rod 4. The latter can still be crimped on the tip, as shown in Figure 11.

Figure 12 illustrates the possibility of securing the applicator element and the rod by snapping. The tip 18 is for example configured to snap onto a head 70 made at the end of the rod 4. The outer diameter of the tip 18 may then, for example, correspond substantially to that of the rod 4.

In a variant not shown, it is the rod 4 which is snapped onto the endpiece 18.

The body of the applicator element can also be made in one piece with the rod 4, as illustrated in FIG. 13.

FIG. 14 illustrates the possibility for at least a portion of the application element 6 to extend along a longitudinal axis Z which forms an angle γ with the longitudinal axis X of the rod 4, the X axes and Z being contained in the same plane and the cavity 12 extending substantially parallel to this plane.

FIG. 15 illustrates the possibility for the applicator element 6 to present a non-symmetrical shape with respect to the axis X of the rod 4. Where appropriate, as illustrated in FIG. application 6 may have an edge 72 extending substantially in alignment with the rod 4. The applicator element 6 protrudes laterally from the rod 4 on the side opposite the edge 72.

The application element 6 may also comprise more than one cavity 12, for example two cavities 12 as shown in FIG. 17.

The two cavities 12 are for example aligned along the longitudinal axis of the applicator element 6. The latter may have, for example, in front view, the general shape of an eight.

In the example of FIG. 1, the application element 6 extends obliquely with respect to the longitudinal axis X of the rod 4.

The applicator element 6 can be further extended, in a non-illustrated variant, along a curvilinear longitudinal axis.

The application element 6 may be made differently and each branch 13 may for example extend with its longitudinal axis Y contained in a plane which is parallel to the longitudinal axis X of the rod 4.

In the example of Figure 1 in particular, the cavity 12 opens at the front and rear of the application element 6, when it is viewed from the front, as in Figure 2.

The branches 13 may have, over at least a portion of their length, a solid cross section, of circular shape for example. Figures 18 to 22 illustrate the possibility for the branches 13 to have a different shape in section. In a variant not shown, the branches 13 are hollow.

The branches 13 may for example have a height h which is greater than the width w of the cavity 12 between the branches, as illustrated in FIG. 22.

In the examples which have just been described, the cavity 12 is filled with air before any contact of the application element 6 with the product contained in the container. It could be otherwise.

Thus, the cavity 12 may for example be at least partially occupied by the flocking extending over the body of the applicator element 6, as is the case in the example illustrated in FIG. flocking covering the body of the application element 6 may for example be long enough for the bristles located on the facing faces of the branches 13 meet.

The applicator element 6 may, as illustrated in FIG. 24, comprise two cavities 12 which are separated by a membrane 80 joining the branches 13 and situated for example at mid-thickness thereof.

The cavity 12 can only lead to one face of the applicator element 6, as illustrated in FIG. 25, the applicator element possibly comprising a membrane 82 defining for example at least partially the application surface by its outer face 83. This membrane 82 may for example be flocked externally. In a variant not shown, at least one orifice allows the product contained in the cavity 12 to gain the outer face 83, through the membrane 82.

This membrane 80 may be flocked or not. The membrane 80 may be replaced by a grid 81, as shown in FIG. 26.

The membranes 80 or 82 may be molded in one piece with the branches 13.

The membrane 82 may be replaced by an attached membrane 34, as shown in FIG. 27. The membrane 34 may for example comprise a woven or a nonwoven, a foam, a perforated film, a grid, a felt, among others, and can be fixed by welding or gluing, for example.

The membrane 34 may be permeable or not to the product P contained in the cavity 12.

The body of the application element 6 is for example made at least partially by injection molding in a thermoplastic material, for example PVC, PU, EVA, SIS-SEB, nitrile, silicone, EPDM, Hytrel ^® , Pebax ^® , Santoprene ^® , or other thermoplastics, for example elastomers.

The applicator element 6 can also be made of non-thermoplastic materials, for example resins, in particular flexible resins, or be produced otherwise than by molding, for example by cutting.

FIGS. 28 and 29 show an application element 6 which has upper and lower faces 131 which converge towards the distal end of the applicator element, at least along a portion of the cavity 12.

The longitudinal axis X of the rod 4 is for example substantially parallel to one of these faces, for example the upper face 130.

In this example, the application element 6 also has, when viewed from above as shown in Figure 29, substantially rectilinear longitudinal edges that converge towards the distal end.

The application elements shown in FIGS. 30 to 45 may advantageously be used for applying a product, makeup or care, to the keratinous fibers, for example the eyelashes or the eyebrows.

In these application elements, the single cavity 12 has an elongated shape, the ratio of the length m of the cavity to the greatest width n thereof being, for example, greater than or equal to 3, or 4, or 5 or 6. For example, there is 3 ≤ m / n ≤ 6.

Figure 30 shows an application member whose cavity 12 has a substantially constant width over at least half of its length. The longitudinal edges of the branches 13 are rectilinear and parallel to each other, on either side of a median portion located mid-length of the cavity.

In the example of FIG. 31, the applicator element 6 is flocked and its distal portion is covered by bristles that are longer than those covering the branches 13. This distal portion serves, for example, to make up the corner of the eye. .

In the example of Figure 32, the branches 13 have unequal widths and the cavity 12 is off-center.

In the example of Figure 33, the longitudinal edges of the branches 13 appear grooved, when the application element is observed from above.

FIG. 34 illustrates the possibility for the branches 13 of the applicator element to have concave longitudinal edges towards the outside. The cavity may then have a width passing through a minimum between its two axial ends.

In the example of Figure 35, the longitudinal edges of the branches are convex outwardly, and the cavity 12 has when viewed from above a lenticular shape.

The applicator element shown in FIG. 36 has a curvilinear longitudinal axis Y and the free end of the applicator element is not situated on the longitudinal axis X of the rod. One of the branches has an outwardly convex outer edge and the other branches an outwardly concave outer edge.

The applicator member of Fig. 37 has a limb having an outwardly convex outer edge and another limb having a straight outer edge. In addition, it can be seen in this figure that the cavity 12 can be relatively narrow and form a capillary slot.

In the embodiment of Figure 38, the cavity 12 is wider than in the example of Figure 37 and has a variable width, passing through an extremum.

FIG. 39 illustrates the possibility for the applicator element to comprise two branches, one of which has a rectilinear outer edge and the other a concave outer edge towards the outside.

In the example of FIG. 40, the applicator element has a curvilinear longitudinal axis, as in the example of FIG. 36, and the free end of the applicator element is located on the same side, relatively to the longitudinal axis X of the rod, that virtually all the rest of the application element.

Figure 41 illustrates the possibility for one of the branches of the application element to have grooves while the other branch is devoid of it. These grooves extend for example transversely to the branch.

Figures 42 and 43 show application members having a third limb 16 which joins the distal and proximal portions of the applicator member.

In the example of Figure 42, the third branch is located on one side of the plane defined by the longitudinal axes of the two branches 13, as can be seen in Figure 44. The branch 16 has for example an arcuate shape.

In the example of FIG. 43, the two branches 13 and the third branch 16 are arranged regularly around the longitudinal axis Y of the applicator element, the proximal portion of the applicator element having a section cross-section generally in the shape of a triangle or three-pointed star, as can be seen in FIG.

FIG. 46 illustrates the possibility of making the body of the applicator element monolithic with the rod and with the gripping member, which can also serve as a closure member for the container.

The application elements of Figures 30 to 45 are for example made at least partially by molding material, including a thermoplastic material.

The application elements of Figs. 30 to 45 can be used to load the eyelashes with a relatively large amount of product. Two branches of the application element can be used simultaneously or successively to apply the product on the eyelashes.

For all the application elements described above, the application of the product may optionally be carried out in various ways depending on the desired result, the application element being for example used flat, on the edge or with various inclinations , the chosen orientation allowing the user to control, for example, the intensity of the makeup and possibly the combing of the eyelashes.

The application element may have shapes other than those illustrated, for example diamond, circle or ellipse when the application element is observed from the front.

The application elements may comprise magnetic particles, in order to be able for example to attract magnetic fibers contained in the product.

When the applicator element is deformable, its deformability can be used to recover product that adheres to the inner surface of the container. An applicator element with a clearly elongated shape, as is the case for example with the application elements of FIGS. 29 to 43, is advantageously designed to allow this deformation.

Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiments which have just been described. In particular, the characteristics of the different exemplary embodiments can be combined with one another.

All the application elements described above, especially those described with reference to the drawing, can be used without deformation of the application element between the product loading and the application, which can be the case for example when these application elements are used in combination with a reserve of product contained elsewhere than in a container provided with a neck.

In such exemplary embodiments of the invention, the rod of the applicator may optionally be devoid of the gripping element 5.

The product P is for example contained, in the form of a paste, a compacted powder or a loose powder or otherwise, in a cup of a housing 110, as illustrated in FIG.

The applicator is for example received in a corresponding housing 112 of the housing.

The application element can be loaded into product by being brought into contact with it. Deformation of the application element may or may not occur at the moment the product is taken.

FIGS. 48 to 51 show an application element according to another alternative embodiment of the invention.

Compared to the embodiment of FIG. 1, the application element of FIGS. 48 to 51 has a more tapered shape when viewed from the side, as in FIG. 50. The angles i ₁ , i ₂ , i ₃ are for example respectively between 6 and 16 °, i ₁ being for example close to 11 °, 17.7 and 27.7, i ₂ being for example close to 20.7 ° and 25.4 and 35.4, i ₃ being for example close to 30.4 °.

The front faces 200 and rear 20 converge towards the distal end 201 of the application element, being for example substantially planar. The sides of the applicator element may be rounded both in section in a plane perpendicular to the Y axis and when viewed from above or below in FIGS. 48 and 49. The height of the cavity 12, measured perpendicular to the Y axis, may vary over at least half the length of the cavity.

The length of the cavity 12, measured along the Y axis, may be less than or equal to 20 mm or greater than 20 mm.

The cavity 12 may have a width that varies over more than half the length of the cavity 12.

When an application element, such as for example one of those described above, is used in combination with a wiper member 8, it may optionally be adjustable as illustrated in FIG. 52. In this case , the container 2 is made with minus two parts 2a and 2b which are movable relative to each other so as to exert a constraint on the wiper member 8 and for example vary the section for the passage of the applicator element.

In the example of Figure 52, the container has an extension 210 under the neck which presses the wiper member so as to expand more or less thereof.

For a given setting of the wiper member, the opening thereof may be sufficiently small to exert a stress on the applicator element, which may be deformed as it passes through the wiper member. For another adjustment of the wiper member 8, the diameter of the opening of the wiper member is sufficiently large so that the applicator element undergoes no stress during the crossing of the wiper member. spin, or even undergoes a stress that does not cause a significant deformation of the cavity 12.

Of course, the invention is not limited to a way of producing the means for varying the opening of the wiper member.

FIG. 53 illustrates the possibility for the wiper member 8 to include a waved wringing lip having corrugations 220 which allows it to expand as the applicator element passes. This may make it possible not to exert on the applicator element a stress causing a substantial deformation of the cavity 12. The corrugations may for example be in the form of an alternation of hollows and bumps in the circumferential direction around the opening of the wiper member.

The expression "having one" shall be understood as being synonymous with the expression "having at least one" unless the contrary is specified.

Claims (43)

Packaging and application device comprising: a container containing the product (P) to be applied, an applicator for applying the product contained in the container, the applicator comprising a rod and an applicator element (6) at one end of the rod, projecting laterally from the latter, the applicator element comprising at least two branches (13) of plastics material, in particular material injected plastic, at least one branch at least partially flocked, the branches joining at their ends and defining therebetween a cavity (12) opening outwardly at least on one side of the application element used for the application of the product, the cavity being of elongated shape and extending along the branches, the branches being sufficiently rigid to prevent the cavity from being deformed substantially between the moment when the application element leaves the product and the moment when the product is applied. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the cavity (12) opens on two opposite faces of the applicator element. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the cavity (12) has, in one plane at least, a closed contour. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cavity (12) extends substantially parallel to a plane forming a non-zero angle (α) with the longitudinal axis (X) of a rod (4). ) to which the application element is connected. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one portion (13) of the application element (6) is elongate along a longitudinal axis (Y) which forms an angle (α) not zero with the longitudinal axis of a rod (4) to which the applicator element (6) connects. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container (2) comprises a wiper member (8), in particular an elastomer wiper member. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the wiper member (8) is fixed in a neck (7) of the container. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the application element (6) has a symmetrical shape relative to a median plane, in particular a median plane (M) containing the longitudinal axis (X) of a rod (4) to which the applicator element is connected. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the applicator comprises a rod (4) carrying the applicator element (6) and connected at the other end to a closure cap (5) for closing the container. Device according to claim 9, characterized in that the applicator element (6) comprises a fastener (18) engaged in the rod (4). Device according to claim 9, characterized in that the rod (4) has an outer diameter greater than or equal to 2.5 mm, better than or equal to 3 mm, in particular of the order of about 4 mm. Device according to claim 9, characterized in that the applicator element is attached to the rod. The device of claim 9, wherein the applicator member is molded with the shaft. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cavity (12) extends over more than half the width (b) of the applicator element. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the width of the cavity is smaller than the width of the two branches together. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cavity (12) extends over more than half the length ( l ) of the applicator element (6). Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that before any contact with the product, the cavity (12) is filled with air. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cavity (12) has a top view in a substantially triangular shape. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one distal end portion (14) of the applicator element is flocked. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the surface of the application element for the application of the product is fully flocked. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the applicator element has a generally flattened shape in cross section. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the product (P) is intended for makeup of mucous membranes, skin or nails. Device according to Claim 22, characterized in that the product is a lipstick. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the product is a mascara. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the surface of the cavity represents, when the application element is observed in a direction substantially perpendicular to the cavity plane, at least 15% of the defined surface area. by the outer contour of the application element, or even between 15 and 50% of the surface delimited by the outer contour of the applicator element. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one of the branches (13) has, in cross section, an at least partially rounded shape. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the branches has in cross section a circular, oval or elliptical shape. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cavity (12) has a maximum width greater than the diameter of the rod. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two branches of the applicator element have different shapes. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cavity (12) has an elongated shape, with a ratio m / n greater than or equal to 3, or 4, or 5, or 6, where m denotes the length of the cavity and n its widest width. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the outer edge of at least one of the branches (13) is at least partially grooved. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the applicator element comprises flocking bristles having different lengths and / or diameters, in particular with longer bristles close to the distal end of the applicator element. the application element. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the applicator element comprises flocking bristles made of different materials. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the application element has magnetic properties, in particular magnetic particles. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cavity is unique. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the limbs are molded together in a thermoplastic material. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, the width of the applicator member increasing from the stem, at least over a portion of the length of the applicator member. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, the width of the applicator member exceeding the diameter of the rod over at least a portion of the length of the applicator member. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, the applicator element having a single tip centered on a median axis. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, the cavity being through more than half of its length. Device according to claim 6, the wiper member comprises a corrugated lip which is arranged to expand to the passage of the applicator element. Device according to claim 6, wherein the wiper member is adjustable. A process for making up the skin or the lips by means of a device as defined in any one of the preceding claims, in which a product is applied to the skin or the lips by means of the applicator, the cavity does not substantially deforming between the time the application element leaves the product and the moment the product is applied.

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