KR20250029136A - Packaging and application device for refillable cosmetics - Google Patents

Abstract

According to the present invention, a cosmetic application and packaging device (10) comprises a case (12) defining a housing and providing at least one first snap-fitting relief (54; 72); and a refill (14) of a cosmetic adapted to be at least partially received in the housing defined by the case (12) and providing a second snap-fitting relief (72; 84). One of the at least one first snap-fitting relief (54; 72) and the at least one second snap-fitting relief (72; 54) is metal and comprises at least one clipping tab (56) extending between at least two longitudinal blind slots (58).

Description

Packaging and application device for refillable cosmetics

The present disclosure relates to the field of packaging and application refill devices for cosmetics.

In the cosmetics field, in particular, users are highly sensitive to the aesthetics of application and packaging devices. However, the high cost of cosmetic application and packaging devices further increases the cost of cosmetics sold in this form in the market.

An idea has emerged consisting of providing a cosmetic applicator and packaging device including a separate refill, which may have less aesthetic effect but is less costly to package. Preferably, the refill is removable so that the applicator and packaging device can be refilled by replacing the removable refill.

The dispensing and packaging device can in particular comprise a case formed by a base and a cap, which case can be made at least partly of metal. In fact, such cases are particularly appreciated by users, especially from an aesthetic point of view. In addition, such refillable devices can improve the environmental footprint, since only the refill is thrown away after using the cosmetic product.

However, in this case, problems may arise if the refill is secured to the cap.

Fixing the refill to the case is advantageously accomplished by a snap-fit. However, in this case, it is difficult to make a snap-fitting that is both sturdy enough to secure the refill to the case and also easy to release so that the refill can be removed and replaced.

The present disclosure improves the above situation.

This disclosure:

- a case defining a housing and providing at least one first snap-fitting relief; and

- At least one cosmetic dispensing and packaging device comprising a refill of a cosmetic product, wherein the refill is at least partially accommodated in a housing defined by a case and provides a second snap-fitting relief;

A cosmetic dispensing and packaging device is proposed, wherein at least one first snap-fitting relief and at least one second snap-fitting relief are made of metal and include at least one clipping tab extending between at least two longitudinal blind slots.

Thus, advantageously, it is possible to produce a cosmetic dispensing and packaging device which implements at least one metal snap-fitting relief for securing the refill to the case. The fitting relief as defined permanently secures the refill to the case and allows for easy disassembly, thereby limiting the risk of damage to the refill and the case.

In a preferred embodiment, the cosmetic application and packaging device may comprise one or more of the following features, alone or in combination:

- A clipping tab and two longitudinal blind slots are located on the cylindrical surface of the metal sleeve;

- The clipping tab includes a protruding relief;

- The protruding relief extends across the entire width of the tab;

- at least one first snap-fitting relief and at least one second snap-fitting relief, the other being:

-- grooves, where appropriate, particularly grooves for accommodating the protruding relief (60) of the clipping tab (54);

-- Lizzy; and

- comprising at least one rug, preferably one of a plurality of rugs;

- The case extends mainly along the axis, the two slots are parallel to the axis, and the protruding relief extends along a direction perpendicular to the axis, where appropriate;

- The case comprises an outer shell for receiving a metal sleeve, a clipping tab and two longitudinal blind slots in the metal sleeve;

- The case includes the base;

- The base comprises a shell for receiving a metal sleeve, a clipping tab and two longitudinal blind slots in the metal sleeve of the base;

- The cosmetic application and packaging device further comprises a cap for closing the base, the cap being preferably removably fixed to the case, for example by magnetization, snap-fitting or screwing;

- The cap comprises an outer shell receiving a metal sleeve, the metal sleeve forming a clipping tab, and two longitudinal blind slots in the metal sleeve of the cap to secure the refill to the cap;

- The refill comprises a sleeve forming a clipping tab extending between two longitudinal blind slots, for securing the refill to the base or cap of the case, where appropriate;

- A cosmetic application and packaging device, preferably comprising an applicator device included in a refill;

- The applicator device comprises a means for applying a cosmetic product, in particular a pipette or a pump;

- The application means is a lipstick mechanism that accommodates lipstick pellets;

- The lipstick mechanism comprises a first mesh relief adapted to be rotatably driven by a second mesh relief integral with the base of the case to move a lipstick pellet within the lipstick mechanism between at least one first retracted position and at least one second lipstick application position;

- The first mesh relief is formed by a groove in the front surface of the base plate of the lipstick mechanism which is free to rotate with respect to the lipstick neck;

- Cosmetic refills include containers for storing cosmetics;

- The cosmetic refill comprises a plug integral with an applicator element of the cosmetic, the plug preferably being fixed to the storage container and adapted to close the storage container, the applicator element still preferably being within the storage container when the plug closes the storage container;

- The cap is preferably detachably fixed to the plug;

- The cap is snap-fitted into a metal sleeve secured to the plug, the metal sleeve providing at least one snap-fitting relief including a clipping tab extending between two longitudinal blind slots;

- The applicator element is a plastic tip, possibly a hair-like one, such as a cosmetic brush.

Included in the scope of the present invention.

Other features, details and advantages can be found by reading the detailed specifications below and analyzing the attached drawings:
Figure 1 schematically illustrates a first example of a cosmetic application and packaging device in a perspective view.
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the components forming the cosmetic application and packaging device of FIG. 1, shown separately from each other.
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the case base of the cosmetic application and packaging device of FIG. 1.
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a refill implemented in the cosmetic application and packaging device of FIG. 1.
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a case cap of the cosmetic application and packaging device of FIG. 1.
Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic application and packaging device of Fig. 1.
Figure 7 is a perspective view showing details of securing the refill of Figure 4 to the case base of Figure 3.
FIG. 8 schematically illustrates in cross-section a second example of a cosmetic dispensing and packaging device including a refill secured to a case by a snap-fitting.
Figure 9 illustrates a first detail of Figure 8, labeled IX.
Figure 10 illustrates a second detail of Figure 8, marked with X.

In the remainder of the description, elements that are identical or have the same function are given the same reference numerals. To simplify this description, elements that are identical in several examples are not described in detail in conjunction with the detailed description of each example. Rather, the description below first details the differences between different examples.

Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a first example of a cosmetic application and packaging device (10) in a perspective view. According to this embodiment, the cosmetic is provided in a stick form. In particular, the cosmetic may be a lipstick, a skin or lip care product, in particular a lip balm, or a UV protection product for the lips or skin.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the application and packaging device (10) basically comprises a case (12) and a refill (14). The case (12) is composed of a base (15) and a cap (16) here. As illustrated, the application and packaging device (10), particularly the case (12), is generally cylindrical and extends mainly along the direction of the extension axis (A10) of the application and packaging device (10). Here, the application and packaging device (10) is generally cylindrical with an oval cross-section. Of course, other general shapes of the application and packaging device (10) are also possible. In particular, the application and packaging device (10) may be generally cylindrical with a circular or polygonal cross-section.

The base (15) of the case (12) is illustrated in cross section in Fig. 3. The base (15) of the case (12) first comprises a cylindrical outer shell (18), which here extends mainly along the direction of the extension axis (A15) of the base (15) of the case (12) corresponding to the axis (A10) in the application and packaging device (10). Here, the outer shell (18) has an oval cross section. The outer shell (18) can be made of any material which can be conceived by a person skilled in the art for forming the case of the stick-shaped cosmetic application and packaging device (10), in particular glass, metal, in particular aluminum or an aluminum alloy, in particular Zamak, ceramics, porcelain, crystal and plastics, in particular ionomer resins such as polymethyl methacrylate, polystyrene, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, ethylene vinyl copolymers known under the trade name Surlyn®, wood and urea resins.

The radially inner surface of the outer shell (18) has a ridge (20). Here, the ridge (20) is a straight line parallel to the axis (A15) of the base (15) of the case (12). Here, the ridge (20) extends only a portion of the height of the outer shell (18) along the direction of the axis (A15) of the base (15) of the case (12). For example, the ridge (20) extends over at least 2/3 of the height of the outer shell (18), preferably at least 3/4 of the height of the outer shell (18).

The base (15) of the case (12) also includes a capsule (22) secured to an end of the shell (18) according to the illustrated example. Thus, the capsule (22) closes one longitudinal end of the cylindrical shell (18). The capsule (22) may include a base plate (24) for forming a longitudinal end of the dispensing and packaging device (10), as shown in the drawing. One side of the base plate (24) of the capsule (22) facing the exterior of the shell (18) may be formed directly on the base plate (24) or may include terms or decorations applied to this base plate (24) of the capsule (22).

The capsule (22) further comprises a crown (26) protruding from the base plate (24). Here, the crown (26) is generally cylindrical along the axis (A15) of the base (15) of the case (12), has an elliptical cross-section, and substantially complements the inner cross-section of the shell (18). Thus, the crown (24) can be clamped to the shell (18). The crown (24) provides grooves (28) on its radially outer surface, one of the grooves accommodating a portion of a ridge (20) of the shell (18). The accommodating of a portion of the ridge (20) in a particular groove (28) can have a foolproofing function, which fixes the capsule (22) in a particular direction with respect to the shell (18). Here, the crown (26) also provides grooves (30) on its radially inner surface. The grooves (30) on the radially inner surface of the crown (26) are obliquely offset with respect to the grooves (28) on the radially outer surface of the crown (26), so that each groove (30) on the radially inner surface is obliquely positioned between two grooves (28) on the radially outer surface, and each groove (28) on the radially outer surface is obliquely positioned between two grooves (30) on the radially inner surface. This configuration allows for a capsule (22) that is lighter and easier to manufacture by molding by limiting the thickness of the crown (26).

Alternatively, the capsule (22) may be integral with the shell (18).

The base (15) of the case (12) further comprises an insert (32) accommodated in the shell (18). The insert (32) provides a general shape that substantially complements the shape of the shell (18) for this purpose. In particular, in the illustrated example, the insert (32) provides a cylindrical portion (34) that complements the cross-section of the shell (18). A groove (36) is located on the radially outer surface of the cylindrical portion (34). The groove (36) is a straight line that is substantially parallel to the axis (A15) of the base (15) of the case (12). Here, one of the grooves (36) accommodates a ridge (20) on the radially inner surface of the shell (18). Here again, by accommodating a portion of the ridge (20) in a particular groove (36), an anti-fouling function can be achieved with respect to the orientation of the insert (32) with respect to the shell (18).

Alternatively, a portion of the ridge (20) may be accommodated in the groove (36) to prevent the two portions from rotating relative to each other about the axis (A15) of the base (15) of the case (12). However, in this case, it is preferred that a plurality of ridges (20) are at least partially accommodated in their respective grooves (36).

In addition, the insert (32) here forms two tabs (38) which protrude in relation to the cylindrical portion (34) in the direction of the axis (A15) of the base (15) of the case (12) and extend in the extension direction of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion (34). However, the insert (32), in particular the cylindrical portion (34), forms a flange (35) at the base of the tabs (38). A lug (37) protrudes from the flange (35) in the direction of the axis (A15) of the base (15) of the case (12).

The insert (32) further forms a mesh relief (40). Here, the mesh relief (40) is provided in the form of an outer cylindrical relief along the axis (A15) of the base (15) of the case (12). Here, the mesh relief (40) has a five-pointed star-shaped cross-section. Of course, the person skilled in the art can also utilize other shapes of the mesh relief. In particular, the mesh relief (40) can a priori take any cylindrical shape having a non-circular cross-section, in particular a polygonal cross-section.

The base (15) of the case (12) further comprises a magnet (42) according to the illustrated example. The magnet (42) is received in contact with the flange (35) of the insert (32) between, for example, two tabs (38) of the insert (32). The magnet (42) also comprises a notch (44) which receives, in the illustrated example, a lug (37) of the insert (32). Thus, the orientation of the magnet (42) is ensured in relation to the insert (32), and thus in relation to the base (15) of the case (12), since the orientation of the insert (32) is ensured by the fool proofing formed by the reception of the ridge (20) in the groove (36). This is of particular interest if the magnet (42) is a quadrupole magnet.

Finally, the base (15) of the case (12) comprises a sleeve (46). Here, the sleeve (46) is made of a metal, for example aluminum or an aluminum alloy such as a subframe. The sleeve (46) comprises a cylindrical portion (48) having a circular cross-section, a first annular portion (50) protruding radially outwardly from a first end of the cylindrical portion (48) relative to the cylindrical portion (48), and a second annular portion (52) protruding radially inwardly from a second end of the cylindrical portion (48) relative to the cylindrical portion (48). The second annular portion (52) defines a central opening extending a cylindrical base (41) of a circular cross-section of the mesh relief (40) of the insert (32). The first annular portion (50) defines a housing that accommodates a magnet (42) through the outer shell (18), the insert (32), and in particular the cylindrical portion (34) of the insert (32) and the cylindrical portion (48) of the sleeve (46).

Additionally, as more specifically illustrated in FIG. 7, the cylindrical portion (48) of the sleeve (46) forms two snap-fitting reliefs (or clipping reliefs). Here, the two snap-fitting reliefs (54) are symmetrical with respect to the axis (A15) of the base (15) of the case (12). Each snap-fitting relief (54) includes a clipping tab (56) extending between two slots (58) as illustrated.

The slots (58) are all identical here. Here, a slot is understood to mean an opening that crosses the wall of the cylindrical portion (48) of the sleeve (46) radially with respect to the axis (A15) of the base (15) of the case (12). Thus, each slot (58) crosses the thickness of the sleeve (46), in particular the cylindrical portion of the sleeve (46) in which it is formed. Each slot (58) can be made by removing material from the sleeve (46). Alternatively, however, each slot (58) can be made by cutting the sleeve (46), in particular the cylindrical portion (48) of the sleeve (46), without substantially removing material from the sleeve (46). In all cases, each slot (58) here separates the material of the sleeve (46), in particular two edges of the cylindrical portion (48) of the sleeve (46) along the square direction. Here, each slot (58) extends longitudinally parallel to the axis (A15) of the base (15) of the case (12). Accordingly, each slot (58) is straight in the illustrated example.

As illustrated in FIG. 7, each slot (58) has no outlet in that it extends between two longitudinal ends formed in the sleeve (46), particularly the cylindrical portion (48) of the sleeve (46). The slots (58) make the sleeve (46) substantially more flexible, and particularly make the cylindrical portion (48) of the sleeve (46) more flexible between two adjacent slots (58) where the cylindrical portion (48) of the sleeve (46) forms a clipping tab (56).

Each clipping tab (56) provides a radially inwardly protruding relief (60). Thus, each relief (60) protrudes relative to the other protruding clipping tabs (56). Here, the protruding relief (60) is formed by a boss of the clipping tab (56). This boss is created by deformation of the clipping tab (56). Thus, the clipping tab (56) adds substantially no thickness to the protruding relief (60). Here, the boss (60) is substantially square in that the entire portion extending between the two adjacent slots (58) is domed in the shape of a substantially cylindrical, angular sector. However, alternatively, the protruding relief (60) may be formed as a bead or other shape available to those skilled in the art.

As illustrated in FIG. 7, each tab (56) is integral with the remainder of the sleeve (46) at each end, particularly the cylindrical outer shell of the cylindrical portion (48) of the sleeve (46). Each tab (56) is separated from the remainder of the sleeve (46) along a side of the tab (56) that extends parallel to the axis (A15) of the base (15) of the case (12) by a slot (58) extending along the side of the tab (56).

Each tab (56) may, if appropriate, extend from the extension of the cylindrical outer shell of the cylindrical portion (48) of the sleeve (46) excluding the protruding relief (60). In this case, the extension of the cylindrical outer shell of the cylindrical portion (48) of the sleeve (46) does not include only the protruding relief (60). However, alternatively, each tab (56) does not extend from the extension of the cylindrical outer shell of the cylindrical portion (48) of the sleeve (46).

Each tab (56) and therefore each slot (58) can have a length along the axis (A15) of the base (15) of the case (12) of at least 1 mm, preferably at least 2 mm, and/or at most 10 mm, preferably at most 5 mm.

Each protruding relief (60) extends longitudinally along a direction perpendicular to the axis (A15) of the base (15) of the case (12), here along a direction perpendicular to the axis (A15) of the base (15) of the case (12). Each protruding relief (60) may span the entire width of the corresponding tab (56). However, alternatively, each protruding relief (60) may be positioned only a portion of the width of the tab (56) between two slots (58). In particular, each protruding relief (60) may be positioned at least half of the width of the tab (56), preferably at least ¾ of the width of the tab (56).

Each protruding relief (60) can be formed substantially between 1/3 and 2/3 of the height of the corresponding tab (56), particularly in the middle of the height of the corresponding tab (56). The deformation of the tab (56) occurs more particularly in the middle of the height than at the longitudinal ends of the tab (56).

The protruding relief (60) provides a height measured along the axis (A15) of the base (15) of the case (12), which height is smaller than the height of the slot (58) measured along the same direction of the axis (A15) of the base (15) of the case (12). For example, the height of the protruding relief (60) is 0.1 mm or more, preferably 0.5 mm or more and/or 3 mm or less, preferably 2 mm or less. It is preferred that the height of the protruding relief (60) be limited in relation to the height of the clipping tab (56). For example, the height of the protruding relief (60) represents less than 20%, preferably less than 10%, of the height of the clipping tab (56). The width of the protruding relief (60) measured along the circumferential or orthogonal direction can be 1 mm or more, preferably 2 mm or more and/or 10 mm or less, preferably 5 mm or less. The distance between the top of the protruding relief (60) measured radially with respect to the axis (A15) of the base (15) of the case (12) and the cylindrical outer shell of the cylindrical portion (48) of the sleeve (46) may be less than 2 mm, preferably less than 1 mm. Thus, the tab (56) provides excellent flexibility while preserving satisfactory mechanical strength.

Each tab (56) has a protruding relief (60) extending between the two slots (58), thereby forming a snap-fit relief (54) in the cylindrical portion (48) of the sleeve (46). Preferably, each snap-fit relief (54) comprises a tab (56) extending between the two slots (58) and having a protruding relief (60) mounted thereon. Notably, these snap-fit reliefs (54) are formed by a metal component, in this case the sleeve (46). That is, it is possible to create a snap-fit relief (54) that provides sufficient elasticity to allow it to deform even though it is formed by a metal component, in this case the sleeve (46). Creating a metal snap-fit relief (54) is interesting for several reasons. First, metal is easier to recycle than plastic. Additionally, since metal is stronger than plastic, the risk of brinelling of the metal snap-fit relief (54) is reduced.

The thickness of the sleeve (46) may be, for example, 0.1 mm or more and/or 1 mm or less. Accordingly, the sleeve (46) is also rigid, so that it is difficult or impossible to deform the sleeve (46) with bare hands unless it is at the level of the tab (56).

Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional drawing of the case (12) described above, particularly the refill (14) accommodated in the base (15) of the case (12).

The refill (14) consists of a lipstick mechanism (62) schematically illustrated in Fig. 4. The refill (14) is generally cylindrical and extends primarily along the direction of the axis (A14), which coincides with the axis (A10) of the dispensing and packaging device (10) when assembled.

In a problem known per se, a mechanism (62) accommodates a stick of cosmetic (B). The mechanism (62) comprises, for example, a base plate (64), a cup (66) and a neck (68). The mechanism (62) is adapted to move the cup (66) in which the stick of cosmetic (B) is held relative to the neck (68) between a position shown in FIG. 4 whereby the dispensing and packaging device (10) can be closed by the cap (16) and an unfolded position for applying the cosmetic whereby the stick of cosmetic (B) protrudes from the neck (68). In a lipstick mechanism of this type, the stick of cosmetic (B) is typically moved between the two positions by rotating the neck (68) relative to the base plate (64) of the mechanism (14). The base plate (64) may provide a spiral groove (not shown) for guiding at least one protrusion integral with the cup (66) rotated relative to the base plate (14) through the neck (68).

It can be seen that the base plate (64) has no longitudinal ridge parallel to the axis (A14) of the refill (14) on its outer surface. However, the base plate (64) forms a complementary groove (70) in the cross section of the mesh relief (40). Thus, the base plate (64) is integral with the case (12) when rotating about the axis (A14) of the refill (14) by receiving the mesh relief (40) in the complementary groove (70). Accordingly, the lipstick mechanism (62) can be controlled by causing the neck (68) to rotate relative to the base (15) of the case (12). Other means of rotatably integrating the base plate (64) and the base (15) of the case (12) are also available to those skilled in the art. For example, the base plate (64) may extend parallel to the axis (A14) of the refill (14) and provide a groove on its outer surface that accommodates a complementary ridge formed on the radially inner surface of the insert (32) that is integral with the outer shell (18) of the base (12) when rotated.

Additionally, the base plate (64) provides a circular groove (72) here in its outer contour.

The case (12) of the cosmetic application and packaging device (10) further includes a cap (16) in the form of a cover (16).

The cover (16) is generally cylindrical and, when assembled, is cylindrical in shape extending mainly along the direction of an axis (A16) that coincides with the axis (A10) of the dispensing and packaging device (10).

The cover (16) first includes an outer shell (74). Here, the outer shell (74) is cylindrical along the axis (A16) of the cover (16). Here, the outer shell (74) has an elliptical cross-section that is substantially the same as the cross-section of the outer shell (18) of the case (12).

The outer shell (74) of the cover (16) may be made of any material that can be conceived by a person skilled in the art to form the casing of the stick-shaped cosmetic application and packaging device (10), in particular glass, metal, in particular aluminum or an aluminum alloy such as slate, ceramic, porcelain, crystal and plastic, in particular polymethyl methacrylate, polystyrene, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, ionomer resins such as ethylene vinyl copolymer known under the trade name Surlyn®, wood and urea formaldehyde.

It is preferable that the outer skin (74) of the cover (16) uses the same material as the outer skin (18) of the base (15) of the case (12).

Here, the radial inner surface of the outer shell (74) has a ridge (76). Here, the ridge (76) is a straight line parallel to the axis (A16) of the cover (16). Here, the ridge (76) extends only for a portion of the height of the outer shell (74) oriented along the axis (A16) of the cover (16). For example, the ridge (76) extends for at least 2/3 of the height of the outer shell (74), preferably for at least 3/4 of the height of the outer shell (74).

Additionally, the cover (16) includes a capsule (78) secured to one end of the shell (74). Thus, the capsule (78) closes one longitudinal end of the cylindrical shell (74). The capsule (78) may include a base plate (80) for forming a longitudinal end of the dispensing and packaging device (10), as illustrated. One side of the base plate (80) of the capsule (78) facing the exterior of the shell (74) may include a term or decoration formed directly on the base plate (80) or applied to the base plate (80) of the capsule (78). Here, the capsule (78) is in contact with the shell (74). However, the capsule (78) may also be integral with the shell (74).

The capsule (78) further comprises a crown (82) protruding from the base plate (80). Here, the crown (86) is generally cylindrical along the axis (A16) of the cover (16). The crown (82) has a generally elliptical cross-section. The crown (82) substantially complements the inner cross-section of the shell (74). Thus, the crown (82) can be clamped to the shell (74). Here, the crown (82) provides a groove (84) on its radially outer surface and on its radially inner surface, one of which receives a portion of a ridge (76) of the shell (74). By receiving the ridge (76) of the shell (74) in a specific groove (84), a perfect fixation of the capsule (76) with respect to the shell (74) is possible.

The cover (16) further comprises an insert (86) accommodated in the shell (74). The insert (86) provides a general shape that substantially complements the shape of the shell (74) for this purpose. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the insert (86) provides a cylindrical portion (88) that complements the cross-section of the shell (74). A groove (90) is in the radially outer surface of the cylindrical portion (88) of the insert (86). The groove (90) is substantially straight and parallel to the axis (A16) of the cover (16). Here, one of the grooves (90) accommodates a ridge (76) in the radially inner surface of the shell (74). Accordingly, the ridge (76) and the groove (90) accommodating the ridge (76) form an anti-fouling function for assembling the insert (86) into the outer shell (74) of the cover (16), so that the insert (86) is assembled in a given direction relative to the outer shell (74).

In addition, the insert (86) here forms two tabs (92) which protrude in the direction of the axis (A16) of the cover (16) with respect to the cylindrical portion (88) and extend in the extension direction of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion (88). However, the insert (86), in particular the cylindrical portion (88), forms a flange (91) at the base of the tabs (92). A lug (93) protrudes from the flange (91) in the direction of the axis (A16) of the cover.

The insert (86) accommodates a balancing weight (94) near the base. The balancing weight (94) allows for better distribution of the weight of the dispensing and packaging device (10).

According to the example shown in the drawing, the cover (16) further comprises a magnet (95). The magnet (95) is received in contact with the flange (35) of the insert (91), for example between two tabs (92) of the insert (86). The magnet (95) also comprises a notch receiving lug (93) of the insert (86) in the example shown. This ensures the orientation of the magnet (95) with respect to the insert (86) and thus the orientation of the magnet (95) with respect to the cover (16). If the magnet (95) is a quadrupole magnet, it is therefore ensured that the fixing of the cover (16) to the base (15) of the case (12) can only be performed in a single direction or in several predefined directions of the cover (16) around the axis (A10) of the dispensing and packaging device (10) with respect to the base (15) of the case (12).

Finally, the cover (16) comprises a sleeve (96). Here, the sleeve (96) is made of metal. The sleeve (96) comprises a cylindrical portion (97) having a circular cross-section, a first annular portion (98) which projects radially outwardly in relation to the cylindrical portion (97) at a first end of the cylindrical portion (97), and a second annular portion (99) which projects radially inwardly in relation to the cylindrical portion (97) at a second end of the cylindrical portion (97). The first annular portion (98) defines a housing which accommodates the magnet (95) via the outer shell (74), the insert (86), in particular the cylindrical portion (88) of the insert (86) and the cylindrical portion (97) of the sleeve (96).

The cosmetic application and packaging device (10) can be assembled as follows.

First, the refill (14) is inserted into the base (15) of the case (12) until the protruding relief (60) of each clipping tab (56) of the sleeve (46) of the case (12) abuts against the groove (72) of the base plate (64) of the refill (14), as illustrated in FIG. 7. In other words, the refill (14) is snap-fitted into the sleeve (46) of the base (15) of the case (12). In this way, the refill (14) can be firmly fixed to the case (12), in particular to the base (15) of the case (12), but can be easily detached while limiting the risk of damage to the case (12), in particular to the sleeve (46) of the base (15) of the case (12). At the same time, the groove (70) engages the mesh relief (40).

As illustrated in FIG. 6, in particular, the snap-fitting of the clipping tab (56) and the groove (72) is effected near one end of the shell (18) opposite the end at which the refill (14) is inserted into the base (15) of the case (12), for example at a distance of less than 50%, preferably less than 20%, more preferably less than 10% of the height of the shell (18) from this end of the shell. Thus, any friction that may occur when the refill (14) is inserted into the case (12) occurs only when the insertion of the refill (14) is complete.

Accordingly, the base (15) of the case (12) can be closed by the cover (16), which is fixed to the base (15) of the case (12) by the cooperation of the magnets (42, 95). In this position, the part of the refill (14) protruding from the base (15) of the case (12) is received in the housing defined by the sleeve (96) of the cover (16). Of course, other means of fixing the cover (16) to the base (15) of the case (12) are also available to those skilled in the art. In particular, the cover (16) can be screwed or snap-fitted to the base (15) of the case (12).

Additionally, although the cover (16) here is only secured to the base (15) of the case (12), the cover (16) may alternatively or additionally be secured to the refill (14). The cover (16) may be secured to the refill (14) by any means available to one skilled in the art.

Hereinafter, a second embodiment of a cosmetic application and packaging device (100) will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 to 10.

According to this second embodiment, the cosmetic application and packaging device (100) is more particularly suitable for packaging and applying cosmetics in liquid, paste or powder form using an applicator device such as a cosmetic brush, a brush or preferably a flocked plastic applicator element. Such cosmetics are for example products such as polish, nail polish, mascara or foundation.

The dispensing and packaging device (100) also includes a case (12) and a refill (14) accommodated in the case (12). The case (12) also includes a base (15) and a cap (16) in the form of a cover here.

Here, the base (15) of the case (12) is composed of an outer shell (18) and a capsule (22), and closes one end of the outer shell (18). Alternatively, the outer shell (18) and the capsule (22) are integral.

Here, the cover (16) basically comprises a generally cylindrical outer shell (74). According to the illustrated example, the outer shell (74) is closed at one end by a capsule (78). However, the outer shell (74) and the capsule (78) may be integral.

Here, the refill (14) includes a storage container (102) for cosmetics. Here, the storage container (102) is cylindrical and preferably has a circular cross-section. Here, the storage container (102) forms a collar (104) that receives a spinning ring (106). The collar (104) provides threading on a radial outer surface.

As more specifically illustrated in FIG. 9, the refill (14) here comprises a metal sleeve (46) that is secured to the reservoir (102). For example, the sleeve (46) is received in a recess (108) in the wall of the reservoir (106). Here, the sleeve (46) is secured near one longitudinal end of the reservoir (106) that is initially introduced into the shell (18) during insertion of the refill (14) into the base (15) of the case (12). This assembly is particularly aesthetically pleasing, as the sleeve (46) is not visible or only slightly visible in the dispensing and packaging device (100) once assembled. The sleeve (46) provides a snap-fitting relief (54) identical to the sleeve (46) described in connection with the first example of the dispensing and packaging device (10). Here, the protruding relief (60) on the tab (56) of each snap-fitting relief (54) is received in a groove (72) formed on the radially inner surface of the outer shell (18) of the base (15) of the case (12). Accordingly, the storage container (102) of the refill (14) is fixed to the base (15) of the case (12) by snap-fitting. According to one variation not shown, the groove (72) may be formed in an insert fixed to the interior of the outer shell (18) of the base (15) of the case (12).

Furthermore, according to the illustrated embodiment, the refill (14) comprises a cosmetic applicator device (110) comprising an applicator element (112), a head (114) and a stem (116) connecting the applicator element (112) and the head (114). The applicator device (112) further comprises a sleeve (46) secured in a recess (118) near one longitudinal end of the head (116), in particular near one longitudinal end of the head (114). Here, the sleeve (46) is secured near one longitudinal end of the head (114) and is initially introduced into the shell (74) during insertion of the refill (14) into the cover (16). This assembly is particularly aesthetically pleasing, as the sleeve (46) is not or only slightly visible in the application and packaging device (100) once assembled. The sleeve (46) provides a snap-fitting relief (54) identical to the sleeve (46) described in connection with the first example of the application and packaging device (10). Here, a protruding relief (60) on the tab (54) of each snap-fitting relief (54) is received in a groove (72) formed in the radially inner surface of the outer shell (74) of the cover (16). Thus, the applicator device (110) of the refill (14) is fixed to the cover (16) of the case (12) by snap-fitting. According to a variant not shown, the groove (72) may be formed in an insert fixed in the interior of the outer shell (74).

It is also noted that the head (114) provides an internal thread so that the cover (16) can be fastened to the reservoir (106) of the refill (14) accommodated in the base (15) of the case (12). In particular, according to the illustrated embodiment, the cover (16) is fastened to the head (114) and is itself screwed to the reservoir (106) of the refill (14), which is fastened to the base (15) of the case (12). Alternatively, the internal thread may be provided on the inside of the shell (74) of the cover (16) or in an insert fastened to the shell (74) of the cover (16). According to another alternative, the cover (16), in particular the shell (74) of the applicator device (110) or the head (114) is fastened to the base (15) of the case (12).

Preferably, the head (114) of the applicator device (110) has a plug function adapted to close or block the reservoir (102) particularly when the cover (16) is secured to the reservoir (106) of the refill (14). The stem (116) is adapted to allow the applicator element (112) to be inserted into the reservoir (102) when the cover (16) is secured to the reservoir (102). Thus, in this closed position of the application and packaging device (100), the stem (116) passes through the spinning ring (106) secured to the collar (104) of the reservoir (102). When removing the applicator element (112) from outside the storage container (102), the stem (116) and the applicator element (112) can pass through the rotating ring (106) to remove any excess cosmetic that may be present on the applicator element (112). The cover (16) acts as a gripping device to ensure that the cosmetic can be accurately applied using the applicator element (112).

Additionally, in this second example, the snap-fitting relief (54) enables the reservoir (102) and head (114) of the refill (14) to be firmly fixed to the case (12), particularly to the base (15) and cover (16) of the case (12), respectively. However, the disassembly of this snap-fitting is easily maintained so that the refill (14) can be removed from the case (12) if necessary.

In the example of Fig. 8, the snap-fit relief (54) is formed by a sleeve (46) included in the refill (14). However, the sleeve (46) may also be included in the case (12), particularly in the base (15) and/or cover (16) of the case (12).

The present invention is not limited to the embodiments just described, but on the contrary, numerous modifications may be possible for those skilled in the art.

Thus, in each of the examples illustrated, the tab (56) of the snap-fit relief (54) may be in the case (12) and cooperate with the groove (72) of the refill (14). However, the tab (56) of the snap-fit relief (54) may also be in the refill (14) and cooperate with the groove (72) formed in the case (12).

Additionally, instead of the groove (72), the skilled person may access other snap-fitting reliefs adapted to cooperate with the tab (56) and the protruding relief (60) to form a snap-fit. In particular, mention may be made of one or more lugs or beads, for example in the form of a ridge, a hook.

Additionally, in the described embodiments, the snap-fit relief (54) is formed by a sleeve (46) applied to the case (12) or the refill (14) in each case. However, the snap-fit relief(s) (54) may also be formed directly by the base of the case or the outer shell (18, 74) of the cap (16), especially if this outer shell (18, 74) is made of metal.

Additionally, the application and packaging device may comprise an applicator device other than that already described. In particular, the application and packaging device may comprise a device for applying a cosmetic, such as, for example, a pipette or a pump.

Claims (22)

a case (12) defining a housing and providing at least one first snap-fitting relief (54; 72); and
At least one cosmetic dispensing and packaging device (10; 100) comprising a refill (14) of a cosmetic product, which is at least partially accommodated in a housing defined by a case (12) and which provides a second snap-fitting relief (72; 84),
A cosmetic application and packaging device, wherein at least one of the first snap-fitting relief (54; 72) and at least one second snap-fitting relief (72; 54) is made of metal and comprises at least one clipping tab (56) extending between at least two longitudinal blind slots (58), the clipping tab (56) being elastically deformable. In the first paragraph,
A cosmetic application and packaging device having a clipping tab (54) and two longitudinal blind slots (58) positioned on the cylindrical surface of a metal sleeve (46). In paragraph 1 or 2,
A cosmetic application and packaging device including a clipping tab (54) and a protruding relief (60). In the third paragraph,
A cosmetic application and packaging device having a protruding relief (60) extending across the entire width of the tab (56). In clause 3 or 4,
At least one of the first snap-fitting relief (54) and at least one of the second snap-fitting relief (72) is:
- a groove (72), if appropriate, in particular a groove (72) for accommodating a protruding relief (60) of a clipping tab (54);
- Lizzy; and
- A cosmetic application and packaging device comprising at least one lug, preferably one of a plurality of lugs. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5,
A cosmetic application and packaging device, wherein the case (12) extends primarily along the axis (A10), the two slots (58) are parallel to the axis (A10), and the protruding relief (60) extends along a direction perpendicular to the axis (A10), if appropriate. In any one of claims 1 to 6,
A cosmetic application and packaging device comprising a case (12) having an outer shell (18, 74) accommodating a metal sleeve (46), a clipping tab (56) and two longitudinal blind slots (58) in the metal sleeve (46). In any one of claims 1 to 7,
Case (12) is a cosmetic application and packaging device including a base (15). In clause 7 or 8,
A cosmetic application and packaging device comprising a base (15) further comprising an outer shell (18) for accommodating a metal sleeve (46), a clipping tab (56) and two longitudinal blind slots (58) in the metal sleeve (46) of the base (15). In clause 8 or 9,
A cosmetic dispensing and packaging device further comprising a cap (16) for closing the base (15), the cap (16) preferably being removably fixed to the case (12) by, for example, magnetization, snap-fitting or screws. In Article 10,
A cosmetic dispensing and packaging device, wherein the cap (16) comprises an outer shell (74) accommodating a metal sleeve (46), the metal sleeve (46) forming a clipping tab (56), and the metal sleeve (46) of the cap (16) has two longitudinal blind slots (58) for securing the refill (14) to the cap (10). In any one of claims 1 to 6, 8, and 10,
A cosmetic dispensing and packaging device comprising a sleeve (46) forming a clipping tab (56) extending between two longitudinal blind slots, for securing the refill (14) to the base (15) or cap (16) of the case (12), if appropriate. In any one of claims 1 to 12,
A cosmetic application and packaging device, preferably comprising an applicator device (110) included in a refill (14). In Article 13,
An applicator device is a cosmetic application and packaging device further comprising a means for applying a cosmetic, in particular a pipette or a pump. In Article 14,
A cosmetic application and packaging device wherein the application means is a lipstick mechanism (62) that accommodates lipstick pellets. In Article 15,
A cosmetic dispensing and packaging device comprising a first mesh relief (70) adapted to be rotatably driven by a second mesh relief (40) integral with the base (15) of the case (12) to move a lipstick pellet within the lipstick mechanism (62) between at least one first retracted position and at least one second lipstick application position. In Article 16,
A cosmetic application and packaging device in which the first mesh relief (70) is formed by a groove on the front surface of the base plate (64) of the lipstick mechanism (62) which is free to rotate with respect to the lipstick neck. In any one of claims 1 to 14,
A cosmetic refill (14) is a cosmetic application and packaging device including a cosmetic storage container (102). In Article 18,
A cosmetic refill (14) comprises a plug (114) integrated with an applicator element (112) of the cosmetic, the plug (114) preferably being fixed to the container (102) and adapted to close the container (102), the applicator element (112) still preferably being within the container (102) when the plug (114) closes the container (102). A cosmetic application and packaging device. In clause 10 or 11,
In combination with clause 19, a cosmetic application and packaging device wherein the cap (16) is preferably detachably secured to the plug (114). In Article 20,
A cosmetic dispensing and packaging device, wherein the cap (16) is snap-fitted to a metal sleeve (46) secured to the plug (114), the metal sleeve (46) providing at least one snap-fitting relief (54) including a clipping tab (56) extending between two longitudinal blind slots (58). In one of Articles 19 to 21,
Applicator element (112) is a cosmetic application and packaging device, which is a brush, possibly a plastic tip with a bristle shape, one of a cosmetic brush.