Dispensing module for device for applying colorant and device using such module

Abstract

The invention relates to a dispensing module (1) for a device for applying colorants for permanent makeup or tattoo, characterized in that it comprises: a channel (6); at least one needle (2) arranged in the channel; a piston (4); a product reservoir (5) comprising a lumen (11) leading to the channel (6); and an automatic valve.

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of permanent make-up or tattooing.

[0002] More specifically, the present invention relates to a dispensing module for a device intended to apply a colorant, the dispensing module comprising a channel and at least one needle capable of moving longitudinally in the channel between a retracted position and an extended position, in the retracted position, the distal end of the needle being located within the channel, and in the extended position, the distal end of the needle protruding from the channel. The present invention also relates to a device for applying a product, comprising the above-mentioned module. Background Art

[0003] Currently, devices for applying a colorant to a person and for permanent make-up or tattooing are formed by a gun in which a tattoo needle moves longitudinally and a motor for moving the needle. When a colorant (especially ink) is to be applied to or under the skin of a user, the needle is dipped into an ink reservoir and then applied to the skin of the user so that the ink penetrates under the skin of the user. When the ink absorbed by the needle has been consumed, the needle is dipped again into the ink reservoir and then the cycle starts again.

[0004] A problem that can occur with this type of device is that the amount of ink that can be used between each dipping in the reservoir is relatively small because it is a capillary reservoir. Thus, when a person performing a tattoo has to draw, for example, a straight line or a thin line, they have to stop drawing regularly to draw in more ink. It is relatively difficult to resume drawing at the exact point where drawing was stopped and, for this reason, the drawing may not be ideal.

[0005] In addition, due to the need for regular ink refilling, the time required to perform a tattoo can be long. This is all the more important, especially when a large area needs to be colored, such as when shading. This relatively long working time can be unpleasant for the person performing the tattoo or make-up, and especially so for the person being tattooed or made up. In fact, marking under the skin can be relatively painful. Thus, a shorter working time brings more comfort to the person being marked.

[0006] Another problem can be caused by the fact that the reservoir containing the ink is open to allow ink to be drawn. The ink is thus in contact with air. It is then possible to be contaminated by pathogens, which can then be injected under the skin of the person being tattooed or made up, which can cause an infection.

[0007] To overcome some of these drawbacks, there is a tattoo or permanent makeup device that includes a reservoir integrated into a gun. Such a device is described in U.S. Patent US6,345,553. This document describes a tattoo or permanent makeup gun that includes a module in which a tattoo needle moves longitudinally under the impulse of a motor. The tattoo gun includes an ink reservoir. The needle moves in the ink reservoir during its alternating longitudinal displacements, and then its free end projects from the tattoo gun so as to be able to apply, under the skin of the user, the ink drawn by the needle.

[0008] This embodiment largely avoids refilling the ink in an external reservoir. Thus, relatively long lines can be drawn and large areas can be filled without having to refill the ink. In addition, the ink is not exposed to air, thus minimizing the risk of contamination or infection.

[0009] However, this gun has other drawbacks. In fact, during the tattooing action, the presence of the piston (i.e., the part supporting the needle and the flexible sealing part) generates overpressure pulses, which causes the ink to be discharged in an uncontrollable manner.

[0010] In addition, the ink is constantly in contact with the metal needle and chemical integration may occur. In the case of storage for several weeks, the contamination of the ink becomes problematic, and the needle may become dull due to slow micro-corrosion. In addition, it should be noted that the ink consists of a solvent and more or less solid particles. The presence of the needle in the ink, even with only a slight loss of the solvent, can lead to deposits or films on the surface of the needle, thus reducing its effectiveness. Another limitation comes from the shape of the needle. In fact, in order to produce a specific tattoo, the needle consists of several points welded together. Once the needle consists of more than one point, the assembly of such points imposes a non-circular shape. Then, it is very difficult, if not impossible, to form a seal in the front nozzle, making the reservoir sensitive to contamination and leakage without using an additional sealing cap that has to be replaced after each use.

[0011] Another drawback is that the ink is introduced into the reservoir and then the needle moves inside the reservoir. It is not possible to easily empty the ink from the reservoir and replace it with ink of a different color. In fact, this would lead to an uneven mixture of unusable colors. Thus, if the ink contained in the reservoir is not completely consumed, it is wasted.

[0012] In addition, the ink reservoir in which the needle moves is located relatively far from the free end of the needle, that is, away from the end of the needle that is opened to perform the tattoo. In order for the ink to be absorbed by the needle, its free end must completely enter the reservoir. This requires guiding the needle in a particularly rigid manner, which complicates the production of the gun from a mechanical perspective and makes it more expensive. Additionally, due to the construction of the gun, the ink must be available on the side of the reservoir where the needle is opened. This requires the person performing the tattoo to hold the gun in a certain way, where the needle is substantially vertical and pointing downwards, otherwise the needle does not receive the ink. This makes the use of the gun impractical. As a result, the solution is not ideal, especially since the ink does not easily come into contact with the needle. Furthermore, the device described in this document does not allow the use of a removable reservoir.

[0013] Another disadvantage of the device stems from the fact that the needle is constantly immersed in the ink. This means that the only ink that can be used is the ink contained in the reservoir. Therefore, it is not possible to use the ink from the reservoir for one part of the tattoo and then use the device by dipping the needle into the ink of an external reservoir to perform another part of the tattoo.

[0014] Therefore, the solution described in US Patent 6,345,553 is not ideal in practice. In fact, it is not possible to change the ink color while keeping the same gun. The unused ink is lost, and the gun must be handled in some way, otherwise it does not work. Additionally, it is not possible to alternately use the device in the "conventional" mode where the needle is dipped into an external ink reservoir and in the mode where the ink contained in the reservoir integrated into the device is used.

[0015] To solve the technical problems listed above, document WO2021 / 204971 describes a dispensing module for a device intended to apply a colorant for permanent makeup or tattooing. The dispensing module includes a channel and at least one needle that can move longitudinally in the channel between a retracted position and an extended position. In the retracted position, the distal end of the needle is located within the channel, and in the extended position, the distal end of the needle protrudes from the channel. The dispensing module also includes a colorant reservoir that communicates with the channel only in the region located downstream of the needle when the needle is in a certain position.

[0016] This dispensing module does not always allow for satisfactory adjustment of the flow rate of the colorant delivered by the reservoir. This can lead to irregularities in the tattoo and product leakage at the front and / or rear of the dispensing module. These inconveniences are caused by the rapid back-and-forth movement of the piston.

[0017] Accordingly, there is a need for a device that is designed to apply a coloring agent via at least one needle, which is flexible and practical, that is, in particular, which allows continuous use without having to periodically dip the needle into the product, which would alter the product without causing waste, which can be used in the normal use position of such a device, and which allows control of the flow rate of the product. All of these while having a sealed reservoir and no long-term contact between the needle and the coloring agent. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0018] These and other objects, which will become more apparent hereinafter, are achieved by using a dispensing module for a device designed to apply a coloring agent for permanent makeup or tattooing, the dispensing module being characterized in that it comprises:

[0019] - a channel,

[0020] - at least one needle arranged in the channel,

[0021] - a piston arranged upstream of the needle in the channel, the needle being fixed in translation to the piston, the assembly formed by the needle and the piston being able to move longitudinally in the channel between a retracted position and an extended position, in the retracted position, the distal end of the needle being located inside the channel, in the extended position, the distal end of the needle protruding from the channel,

[0022] - a product reservoir, the reservoir comprising a lumen leading to the channel, and

[0023] - an automatic valve formed by the cooperation between at least one slot arranged on the periphery of the piston and the lumen, the at least one slot being arranged to be positioned in alignment with the lumen when the piston is between the retracted position and the extended position in a first intermediate product supply zone, the lumen being closed by the piston outside the first intermediate product supply zone.

[0024] The dispensing module may include a prechamber arranged in the channel, downstream of the lumen, the slot being able to be located in the prechamber when the piston is in a second intermediate product supply zone.

[0025] The dispensing module may include one or more decompression air passages leading to the prechamber.

[0026] The decompression air passage may include a set of grooves to allow the product to rise in the decompression air passage by capillary action.

[0027] The decompression air passage may be integrated into the reservoir.

[0028] The cooperation between the slot and the lumen may further allow air to return to the reservoir.

[0029] Before using the reservoir, the lumen can be closed by a plug.

[0030] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the piston includes at least one slot having a constant shape extending over the entire circumference of the piston.

[0031] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the piston has a cylindrical shape, the piston includes a number of slots of different sizes arranged at different positions on the circumference of the piston, and the piston can be rotationally moved about its axis to allow selection of the slot for product supply.

[0032] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing module includes a number of needles arranged in the same plane, the slots have a substantially rectangular shape and are arranged on the piston so as to be positioned in alignment with the lumen when the piston is in the first intermediate product supply area.

[0033] The reservoir may include a bottom, and the reservoir and / or the bottom is inclined relative to the axis of the channel.

[0034] The inclination angle between the bottom of the reservoir and the axis of the channel includes, for example, between 5° and 55°.

[0035] The bottom of the reservoir may include a set of grooves to allow the product to rise in the bottom of the reservoir by capillary action.

[0036] The reservoir may be removable.

[0037] The removable reservoir may include means for connecting the removable reservoir to the dispensing module, the connecting means including an element for closing the lumen, the element being movable between a closed position and an open position, in the closed position, the baffle element closes the lumen, in the open position, the baffle element releases the lumen, and when the removable reservoir is mounted on the dispensing module, the baffle element moves from the closed position to the open position.

[0038] The removable reservoir may include means for dispensing the product in the reservoir.

[0039] The reservoir may include a plug removably mounted on the filling opening of the reservoir.

[0040] The plug may be a bayonet plug.

[0041] The reservoir may include a lid such that the filling opening of the reservoir can be closed.

[0042] The reservoir may include an air inlet.

[0043] The baffle element can be arranged to close the air inlet hole when it is in the closed position, and the baffle element is arranged to release the air inlet hole when it is in the open position.

[0044] The needle and the piston can be made integral by inserting the proximal end of the needle into the piston along its longitudinal axis.

[0045] The front part of the channel can have the shape of an elongated nozzle.

[0046] The present invention also relates to a device for applying a coloring agent for permanent makeup or tattooing, characterized in that it comprises a dispensing module as described above and a module for actuating the needle of the dispensing module. Description of the Drawings

[0047] The present invention will be better understood by reading the following description of the preferred embodiments given as simple diagrams and non-limiting examples and accompanied by the drawings, in which:

[0048] - Figure 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of a dispensing module of a device for applying a product according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] - Figure 2 is a view similar to Figure 1 , showing the piston of the dispensing module in a first intermediate displacement position;

[0050] - Figure 3 is a view similar to Figure 1 , showing the piston of the dispensing module in a second intermediate displacement position;

[0051] - Figure 4 is a view similar to Figure 1 , showing the piston in the extended position;

[0052] - Figure 5 is a top view of a dispensing module according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] - Figure 6 is Figure 5 a perspective view of the dispensing module of, with a cover arranged on the reservoir of the dispensing module;

[0054] - Figure 7 is a longitudinal sectional view of a dispensing module according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] - Figure 8 is a longitudinal sectional view of a dispensing module according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

[0056] - Figure 9is a perspective view of a dispensing module according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, wherein the dispensing module includes a removable reservoir;

[0057] - Figure 10 is Figure 9 a longitudinal sectional view of the dispensing module;

[0058] - Figure 11 is similar to Figure 9 a view showing the removable reservoir mounted on the dispensing module;

[0059] - Figure 12 is Figure 11 a longitudinal sectional view of the dispensing module;

[0060] - Figure 13 is a longitudinal sectional view of a dispensing module according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention, and

[0061] - Figure 14 is a perspective view of a dispensing module according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0062] The present invention relates to a device for applying a colorant for permanent makeup or tattooing.

[0063] According to the present invention, the term "colorant" refers to any colored, natural or synthetic substance which, when in contact with a carrier, under appropriate conditions, is fixed to the carrier in a permanent manner, imparting a certain color to the carrier. The terms "colorant", "ink", "stain", "pigment", "dye" will be used in an undifferentiated and interchangeable manner in this specification.

[0064] The colorant is for example an ink.

[0065] Available inks are for example Panthera Ink (registered trademark) or Eclipse Black Tattoo Ink (registered trademark).

[0066] The device is essentially formed by two parts, namely a dispensing module 1, particularly including a needle 2, and a module for actuating the needle 2. The needle 2 or the support for the latter allows the release or non-release of the colorant during the movements associated with its use.

[0067] According to a preferred embodiment, the dispensing module 1 is removable, so that the dispensing module 1 can be mounted on the actuating module, disassembled from the actuating module and replaced by another dispensing module 1.

[0068] In fact, the actuation module includes at least one motor and is used to perform a large number of tattoos, while several dispensing modules 1 are usually used for one person. For hygienic reasons, the dispensing module is usually single-use, that is, it is used to tattoo a single person and is discarded after being used on that person.

[0069] The actuation module can be of any conventional type and is therefore neither described in detail nor shown in detail in the drawings. It is simply designed to receive the dispensing module 1 in a removable manner.

[0070] 1. Distribution module

[0071] The dispensing module 1 includes a body 3 to allow it to be placed in the actuation module.

[0072] The length of the module 1 includes, for example, between three centimeters and twenty centimeters.

[0073] The dispensing module 1 further includes at least one needle 2, a piston 4, and a product reservoir 5.

[0074] Except for the needle 2, all the components in contact with the ink are made of a material that is inert with respect to the ink.

[0075] In the case of using a dispensing module supplied with pre-filled ink, the piston 4 can achieve the blocking of its longitudinal movement, for example, by the rotation of the piston. This system enables the dispensing of the ink to be usually ensured during transportation.

[0076] The reservoir 5 can be almost completely pre-filled to limit the presence of air, for the purpose of, for example, limiting the risk of overpressure during an airplane journey and thus limiting the risk of leakage or an increase in the storage temperature.

[0077] The dispensing module 1 further includes a longitudinal channel 6 in which the needle 2 makes alternating back-and-forth movements under the action of the actuation module by means of the piston 4.

[0078] The needle 2 and the piston 4 are integrally fixed in translation. The assembly formed by the needle 2 and the piston 4 can move longitudinally in the channel 6 between a retracted position ( Figure 1 ) and an extended position ( Figure 4 ), in the retracted position, the distal end of the needle 2 is located inside the channel 6, and in the extended position, the distal end of the needle 2 protrudes from the channel 6.

[0079] The channel 6 opens at one end 7 of the dispensing module 1, called the free end, through which the needle 2 can protrude from the channel 6 and contact the skin of the person to be tattooed in order to deposit the product onto the person's skin.

[0080] Channel 6 includes a front chamber 8 that is capable of receiving the product. The term "front chamber" refers to the downstream portion of channel 6 in which the distal end of the needle 2 is located when the needle 2 is in the retracted position. The front chamber 8 is arranged close to the free end 7. Thus, the needle 2 can recover a small amount of product during each return stroke between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0081] The reservoir 5 can be fixed and form an integral part of the dispensing module 1, or it can be removable. In this second case, we will refer below to the removable cartridge 105.

[0082] The dispensing module 1 can also advantageously include a decompression air duct 9.

[0083] 2. Reservoir

[0084] The reservoir 5 includes a sealing wall and a filling opening 10.

[0085] The reservoir 5 further includes a lumen 11 leading to the channel 6 to allow the product to pass from the reservoir 5 to the channel 6.

[0086] Before using the reservoir 5, the lumen 11 can be closed by a plug 28( Figure 1 ). The plug 28 can be made of a fluid that is insoluble in the product, such as a fatty fluid released by a specific movement, or a solid material released by a specific movement. The plug 28 is arranged to be broken by the displacement of the piston 4 at the start of use. Before using the reservoir 5, the plug 28 can prevent leakage via the lumen 11 in the case of a product with high capillary action.

[0087] When the lumen 11 is arranged on the side of the reservoir 5 opposite to the free end 7, the reservoir 5 advantageously includes a bottom 12 that is inclined relative to the axis of the channel 6. The inclination angle between the bottom 12 of the reservoir 5 and the axis of the channel 6 is, for example, between 5° and 55°, preferably between 15° and 35°. This feature has the function of promoting the presence of the product at the lumen 11 even when the module 1 is tilted (which is usually the case during its use). Alternatively, the reservoir 5 itself can be inclined relative to the axis of the channel 6.

[0088] The bottom 12 of the reservoir 5 can also include a set of grooves 13 (visible in Figure 5 ) to allow the product in the bottom 12 of the reservoir 5 to rise towards the lumen 11 by capillary action. This feature makes it possible to further promote the presence of the product at the lumen 11, especially when the module 1 is tilted. The lumen 11 is involved in the management of the product flow rate.

[0089] The reservoir 5 can include a plug that is removably mounted on the filling opening 10 of the reservoir 5. The plug is, for example, a bayonet plug.

[0090] In addition to or instead of a plug, the reservoir 5 may include a cap 14 (visible in Figure 6 ) to hermetically close the filling opening 10 prior to its installation. The cap 14 may conventionally include a tab 15 to allow for its easy removal.

[0091] When the reservoir 5 is intended to be used while remaining hermetically closed by either a plug or the cap 14, it also includes a vent hole to allow the atmospheric pressure to be maintained inside the reservoir 5, even when the quantity of product inside the reservoir 5 changes. The vent hole may be provided, for example, at the plug or may be obtained by just piercing the cap 14 just prior to using the reservoir 5. Depending on the fluidity of the ink, the cap 14 may or may not cover the air passage 9.

[0092] In the case of using a fluid ink, the entire reservoir 5 may remain constantly fully sealed. In this case, when the piston is activated, the pressure is balanced by the rise of air bubbles coming from the air passage 9 and entering the slot 16.

[0093] 3. Needle and piston

[0094] The needle 2 is arranged in the channel 6. The piston 4 is also arranged in the channel 6 upstream of the needle 2. The piston 4 and the needle 2 are integrally fixed in translation. For this purpose, for example, the proximal end of the needle 2 is fixed inside the piston 4.

[0095] The piston 4 is arranged to be driven in translation by the actuation module when the dispensing module 1 is mounted on the actuation module.

[0096] The piston 4 also serves as a guiding member for the needle 2. This has the advantage that the needle 2 is always sufficiently guided.

[0097] The piston 4 includes at least one slot 16 arranged on its periphery. The function of the slot 16 is to allow the product to be supplied from the reservoir 5 to the front chamber 8.

[0098] When the piston 4 is in the first intermediate product supply zone ( Figure 2 and Figure 3 ), the slot 16 is arranged to be aligned with the lumen 11 of the reservoir 5. The first intermediate zone is located between the retracted position and the extended position. When the slot 16 is positioned to be aligned with the lumen 11, the product is transferred from the reservoir 5 to the slot 16 via the lumen 11.

[0099] Outside the first intermediate supply zone, the piston 4 closes the lumen 11. The piston 4 closes the lumen 11 especially in the retracted position. This feature makes it possible to avoid product leakage when the module 1 is not in use.

[0100] According to, for example, in Figures 1 to 4 and Figures 9 to 13In the embodiment of the present invention represented, the piston 4 has a cylindrical shape and includes a cylindrical slot 16 extending over the entire circumference of the piston 4. The length of the slot 16 along the longitudinal axis of the piston is selected according to the desired flow rate of the product. In fact, the longer the slot 16, the greater the amount of product that will be transferred from the reservoir 5 to the slot 16 during the stroke of the piston 4. Therefore, this feature makes it possible to adjust the flow rate of the product. When setting the output of the needle 2, this feature can also automatically increase the amount of ink.

[0101] According to another embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figure 7 , the piston 4 has a cylindrical shape and includes a number of slots 161 to 16 n , where n is a positive integer. The slots 161 to 16 n each have a substantially rectangular shape and have different dimensions. The slots 161 to 16 n are arranged at different positions on the circumference of the piston 4. The number of slots 161 to 16 n is, for example, four. This number is not restrictive.

[0102] When the piston 4 includes a number of slots 161 to 16 n , the piston 4 can be rotated about its axis to allow selection of the slots 161 to 16 n for supplying the product. The rotation of the piston 4 can be carried out manually. The slots 161 to 16 n that will be aligned with the lumen 11 during the stroke of the piston 4 are referred to as "the slots to be used". This feature makes it possible to more precisely adjust the flow rate of the product and to vary this flow rate during the tattooing process.

[0103] According to another embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figure 8 , the module 1 includes a number of needles 21 to 2 m , where m is a positive integer. The piston 4 here includes a slot 16 of substantially rectangular shape, the slot 16 being arranged to be aligned with the lumen 11 in a first intermediate supply area. As described above, the dimensions of the slot 16 are selected according to the desired flow rate of the product.

[0104] The needle 2 can be fixed to the piston 4 by inserting the proximal end of the needle 2 along its longitudinal axis into the piston 4. The proximal end can also be integrated with the piston 4.

[0105] Other means can be used to fix the needle 2 and the piston 4 integrally in translation. For example, in the case where a plurality of needles 21 to 2 m are arranged in the same plane, a fixing member 17 ( Figure 8 ) can be provided to receive the proximal end of each needle 21 to 2 m . The fixing member 17 is then fixed to the piston 4.

[0106] 4. Front chamber

[0107] The front chamber 8 of the passage 6 is located downstream of the lumen 11 and extends near the free end 7 of the passage 6.

[0108] The term "front chamber" means the downstream part of the passage 6 in which the distal end of the needle 2 is located when it is in the retracted position.

[0109] The front chamber 8 extends over a sufficient length of the passage 6 such that when the piston 4 is in the second intermediate product supply area ( Figure 3 and Figure 4 ), the slot 16 of the piston 4 is located in the front chamber 8.

[0110] The front chamber 8 is arranged to allow the product to be transferred from the slot 16 to the front chamber 8 when the piston 4 is in the second intermediate product supply area. To this end, the diameter of the front chamber 8 can be slightly larger than the diameter of the piston 4, or can include, for example, longitudinal capillary grooves.

[0111] The first and second intermediate product supply areas can be different. In this case, the second intermediate product supply area is located downstream of the first intermediate product supply area. In other words, in this case, the reservoir 5 supplies the product to the slot 16, and then, after the piston 4 is displaced, the slot 16 supplies the product to the front chamber 8.

[0112] Alternatively, the first and second intermediate product supply areas can include an overlapping area. In this case, when the piston 4 is in the overlapping area, the reservoir 5 supplies the product to the slot 16, and at the same time, the slot 16 supplies the product to the front chamber 8.

[0113] The body 3 of the module 1 has the shape of an elongated nozzle 18 at the free end 7. Here, a nozzle 18 with a length-to-diameter ratio greater than 4 is considered "elongated". For example, the nozzle 18 has a diameter of approximately 1 mm and a length of approximately 4 mm. The use of the elongated nozzle 18 is made possible by supplying the product via the reservoir 5. The advantage of the elongated nozzle 18 is that it allows better control of the product flow rate and prevents the product from leaking through the free end 7.

[0114] The tube 29 can also be inserted into the passage 6 at the nozzle 18. Depending on the application, the tube 29 can be made of a hydrophilic or hydrophobic material. The tube 29 can be made, for example, of a coating of Kollidon (registered trademark) or a coating of plasma-treated silicone to control the hydrophilicity (or hydrophilic properties). The function of this tube 29 is to participate in controlling the flow rate of the product at the free end 7 and to facilitate priming during the first use.

[0115] All components in contact with the ink can be treated to control the hydrophilicity, with the aim of facilitating priming or accelerating it.

[0116] 5. Pressure relief airway

[0117] Specifically, as Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 14 shown, the module 1 may include one or more decompression airways 9 located downstream of the lumen 11.

[0118] The decompression airway 9 leads to the front chamber 8.

[0119] For example, the section of the said or each airway 9 may have a circular, rectangular or oval shape.

[0120] The decompression airway 9 is arranged to be positioned in alignment with the slot 16 when the piston 4 is in the second intermediate product supply zone.

[0121] The decompression airway 9 enables management of the pressure variations in the front chamber 8 due to the stroke of the piston 4 and / or variations in the quantity of product present in the front chamber 8. The application is to eliminate the leaks caused by the overpressure of the piston 4.

[0122] The decompression airway 9 may include a set of grooves 20 to allow the product to rise in the decompression airway 9 by capillary action. This feature makes it possible to retain and regulate any excess product in the airway 9, thus avoiding leakage of the product at the free end 7 and, if necessary, releasing the product by gravity. The grooves are, for example, oriented substantially along the longitudinal axis of the decompression airway 9.

[0123] As shown, the decompression airway 9 may be integrated into the reservoir 5. In this case, the shape of the cover 14 may be adjusted to close the filling opening 10 while leaving the upper end of the airway 9 open, as visible in Figure 6 .

[0124] The shape of the slot 16 in combination with the lumen 11 must allow the passage 6 to be supplied with ink when the piston 4 is activated, while allowing air to return to the reservoir 5, in the case where the reservoir 5 is hermetically closed. This air return from the airway 9 prevents the reservoir 5 from ceasing to supply ink to the system due to the internal negative pressure therein.

[0125] 6. Removable cartridge

[0126] Referring to the appended Figures 9 to 12 , an embodiment is described below in which the reservoir is removable. Such a reservoir is referred to herein as the removable cartridge 105.

[0127] The function of the cartridge 105 is the same as that of the reservoir 5, i.e., to allow the supply of product.

[0128] The removable cartridge 105 includes a member 121 for fixing the removable cartridge 105 to the dispensing module 1. The fixing member 121 includes, for example, a clamping device 122 designed to be clamped onto the body 3 of the dispensing module 1.

[0129] The removable cartridge 105 further includes a member 123 for connecting the cartridge 105 to the channel 6 so as to allow the product to flow from the lumen 111 of the cartridge 105 to the channel 6 when the cartridge 105 is mounted on the dispensing module 1.

[0130] The connecting member 123 includes a baffle element 124 of the lumen 111 which is movable between a closed position and an open position, in the closed position, it closes the lumen 111, and in the open position, it releases the lumen 111.

[0131] When the removable cartridge 105 is mounted on the dispensing module 1, the baffle element 124 is displaced from the closed position to the open position. This displacement can be performed automatically during installation.

[0132] For this purpose, the baffle element 124 can, for example, have the shape of a rod which is pushed back towards the closed position by a spring 125. Thus, in the absence of an additional force being applied to the spring 125, the baffle element 124 is in the closed position. This position makes it possible, in particular, to prevent product leakage when the cartridge 105 is not in use. Then, when the cartridge 105 is installed, the engagement between the rod 124 and the body 3 of the dispensing module 1 compresses the spring 125, thereby causing the baffle element 124 to be displaced towards the open position.

[0133] The compression of the spring 125 is obtained, for example, by the engagement between a projection provided on the lower part of the rod 124 and a projection of the body 3 of the dispensing module 1, which forces the rod 124 to shift upwards.

[0134] As long as the cartridge 105 is mounted on the module 1, the baffle element 124 remains in the open position because the clamping device 122 holds the entire cartridge 105 in place.

[0135] Similar to the reservoir 5 already described, the removable cartridge 105 can include a plug 127 and / or a cap to open and close its filling opening 110.

[0136] The removable cartridge includes an air inlet hole 126 to maintain the atmospheric pressure inside the removable cartridge 105, even in the case where there is a plug 127 or a cap on the filling opening 110.

[0137] The baffle element 124 can be arranged to close the air inlet hole 126 when it is in the closed position and to release the air inlet hole 126 when it is in the open position. This feature makes it possible to prevent leakage when the cartridge 105 is not in use.

[0138] The baffle element 124 may also include means 132 for distributing the product in the cartridge 105 by capillary action. The distribution means 132 includes fins 133. The distribution means 132 enables improved regulation of the flow rate.

[0139] It should be noted that the removable cartridge 105 can be placed on different dispensing modules 1. More precisely, the dispensing module 1 has needles 2 of different shapes. For example, the same cartridge 105 can first be placed on a dispensing module 1 with needles 2 specific to producing fine lines, and then the same cartridge 105 can be placed on a dispensing module 1 with needles 2 specific to producing large surfaces and / or shading.

[0140] The use of the cartridge 105 also allows for the installation of pre-filled cartridges without the user having to fill them themselves.

[0141] 7. Operation

[0142] The operation of the dispensing module 1 is described below.

[0143] The dispensing module 1 is placed on the actuation module. Then, the motor of the actuation module is started.

[0144] When the dispensing module 1 is used in the normal operating mode, the assembly formed by the piston 4 and the needle 2 longitudinally displaces in the channel 6 and moves back and forth between the retracted position and the extended position under the action of the actuation module.

[0145] This use begins with a priming phase that includes transferring sufficient product into the front chamber 8 so that the needle 2 can then pick up some at each channel and bring it to the person's skin.

[0146] In the retracted position ( Figure 1 ), the slot 16 is upstream of the lumens 11, 111 of the reservoirs 5, 105. When the piston 4 is displaced to the extended position, the slot 16 enters the first intermediate supply zone ( Figure 2 ). As a result, the reservoirs 5, 105 supply the product to the slot 16.

[0147] Then, when the piston 4 continues to displace towards the extended position, the slot 16 enters the second intermediate supply zone ( Figure 3 and Figure 4 ). The product contained in the slot 16 is then released into the front chamber 8.

[0148] After one or more back-and-forth movements, the front chamber 8 contains sufficient product for tattooing to begin.

[0149] To facilitate priming of the dispensing module 1, a small amount of product can be manually placed in the air duct 9. Combinatorially or alternatively, the grooves 30, 34 ( Figure 13) can be provided on the front part of the piston 4 and / or on the inner wall of the front chamber 8 to facilitate the advancement of the product into the front chamber 8.

[0150] At this stage, the assembly formed by the piston 4 and the needle 2 continues to longitudinally displace between a retracted position and an extended position in the channel 6 under the action of the actuation module.

[0151] During each back-and-forth movement, while filling the front chamber 8 via the slot 16, the needle 2 draws a small amount of ink, which can then be deposited under the skin of the tattooed person in a conventional manner.

[0152] Thus, in each cycle, the product is brought into the front chamber 8 and the needle 2 retrieves it.

[0153] The assembly formed by the slot 16 of the piston 4 and the lumens 11, 111 thus forms an automatic valve. The term "automatic" refers to the fact that the valve is automatically actuated by the actuation module between a closed position and an open position, in which the piston 4 closes the lumens 11, 111 of the reservoirs 5, 105 in the closed position, and the product can be conveyed via the slot 16 to the front part of the channel 6 in the open position. The automatic valve makes it possible to control and regulate the flow rate of the product.

[0154] When the module 1 includes a decompression air duct 9, this makes it possible to more precisely regulate the amount of product retrieved by the needle 2. In fact, any excess product is pushed into the air duct 8 instead of towards the front part of the channel 6, which prevents any excess pressure and thus any leakage.

[0155] When the air duct 9 includes a groove 20, the excess ink is further retained in the air duct 9 by capillary action until the force of gravity is greater than the capillary force.

[0156] The position of the slot 16 is adapted such that the product cannot flow towards the rear part of the module 1 during the return stroke of the piston 4. However, in the case where a small amount of product is brought to the rear part of the module 1 via the slot 16, an end 31 can be provided to prevent any leakage towards the rear part of the module 1.

[0157] When the product has to be added to the reservoirs 5, 105, for example because their contents have been used, the product can simply be added through the openings 10, 110 of the reservoirs 5, 105, or by removing the plug 127 and pouring the product into the reservoirs 5, 105, or by removing or piercing the cap 14. The amount of product introduced can be chosen so as to substantially correspond to the amount of the desired product, such as the selected color, which avoids waste.

[0158] In the case of the cartridge 105, this can alternatively be changed, that is to say replaced by a new pre-filled cartridge 105.

[0159] According to a variant of the invention, the stroke of the piston 4 and needle 2 assembly can be adjusted by the actuation module, which makes it possible to manage the quantity of product dispensed.

[0160] Here, in a first use mode of the dispensing module 1, the stroke is between a first position and a second position, in the first position, the slot 16 is upstream of the lumens 11, 111, and in the second position, the slot 16 is in the front chamber 8. The first use mode corresponds to using the reservoirs 5, 105 to convey the product into the channel 6.

[0161] In a second use mode, the stroke is between a first position identical to the above-mentioned first position and a second position where the slot 16 is upstream of the front chamber 8.

[0162] In this case, the front chamber 8 is not supplied with product from the reservoirs 5, 105. Then it is possible to use product from an external reservoir.

[0163] The invention makes it possible to use a tattoo or permanent makeup device without having to stop regularly to add ink to the tattoo needle 2. This makes it possible to easily and quickly mark large areas and simply change the color. It can also be used in two different modes, namely a mode using ink from the reservoirs 5, 105, and another mode using ink from an external reservoir. The mode selection can be carried out quickly and easily.

[0164] This is particularly advantageous in cases where most of a tattoo or makeup is done in one color while another part requires the use of another color or where two colors must be used alternately. In this case, it is not necessary to empty the integrated reservoirs 5, 105, clean it and refill it with another color to make a small part of the tattoo or makeup. It is sufficient to close the reservoirs 5, 105 to activate the second use mode and then use the device in a conventional manner by drawing ink from an external reservoir with the needle 2.

[0165] When that part of the tattoo or makeup is completed, the reservoirs 5, 105 can be reopened, that is to say the first use mode is activated, and ink from the integrated reservoirs 5, 105 can be used again.

[0166] These various features make the device easier and more pleasant to use for applying makeup or tattoos to a person. Compared with devices of the prior art, the same operation can be carried out in a significantly shorter time, which is advantageous for the person applying the tattoo, but especially for the person receiving the tattoo. In fact, since a tattoo can be relatively painful, saving time during the application of the tattoo means that the person receiving the tattoo is more comfortable.

[0167] The dispensing module according to the present invention can be used in various positions restricted by the reservoir being inverted in the air passage, which allows permanent makeup or tattooing to be performed without the person applying or receiving the tattoo being in an uncomfortable position. Increasing the height of the reservoir and the air passage can increase the allowable angle of use.

[0168] In addition, with the device of the present invention, ink can be simply and conveniently added to the reservoirs 5, 105, and the amount of ink added corresponds to the need rather than the capacity of the reservoir.

[0169] The color of the ink can also be simply changed, which allows the same dispensing module 1 to be used for several colors. In addition, pre-filled cartridges can be used, which avoids handling the ink. It also prevents the ink from remaining in the open air for a long time, which avoids the risk of being contaminated by airborne pathogens.

[0170] The shape proposed for the module 1 is suitable for simple and rapid cleaning by immersing all or part of the dispensing system in a cleaning liquid. Therefore, changing the color is very simple.

[0171] The above-mentioned device is intended for permanent makeup or tattooing. However, other applications using similar devices are also possible, such as injecting medical products, cosmetics, hair products, or veterinary products.

[0172] Of course, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments as examples; it extends to other variants. In particular, it is important to note that the various elements described above can be combined with each other differently from the embodiments already shown. For example, the decompression air passage can be combined with slots of any shape.

Claims

1. A dispensing module (1) for a device intended to apply a colorant for permanent make-up or tattooing, characterized in that it comprises: - a channel (6), - at least one needle (2) arranged in the channel, - a piston (4) arranged in the channel (6) upstream of the needle (2), the needle (2) being fixed in translation to the piston (4), the assembly formed by the needle (2) and the piston (4) being able to move longitudinally in the channel (6) between a retracted position and an extended position, in the retracted position, the distal end of the needle (2) being located inside the channel (6), in the extended position, the distal end of the needle (2) protruding from the channel (6), - a product reservoir (5, 105) comprising a lumen (11, 111) leading to the channel (6), and - an automatic valve formed by the cooperation between at least one slot (16) arranged on the periphery of the piston (4) and the lumen (11, 111), the at least one slot (16) being arranged to be positioned in alignment with the lumen when the piston (4) is in a first intermediate product supply zone located between the retracted position and the extended position, the lumen (11, 111) being closed by the piston (4) outside the first intermediate product supply zone.

2. The dispensing module according to claim 1, comprising a front chamber (8) arranged in the channel (6) downstream of the lumen (11, 111), the slot (16) being able to be located in the front chamber (8) when the piston (4) is in a second intermediate product supply zone.

3. The dispensing module according to claim 1 or 2, comprising one or more decompression air ducts (9) leading to the front chamber (8).

4. The dispensing module according to claim 3, wherein, The decompression air duct (9) comprises a set of grooves (20) to allow the product to rise in the decompression air duct by capillary action.

5. The dispensing module according to claim 3 or 4, wherein The decompression air duct (8) is integrated into the reservoir (5).

6. The dispensing module according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein The cooperation between the slot (16) and the lumen (11, 111) also allows air to return to the reservoir (5, 105).

7. The dispensing module according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, Before using the reservoir (5), the lumen (11) is closed by a plug (28).

8. The dispensing module according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The piston (4) comprises at least one slot (16) of constant shape extending over the entire circumference of the piston.

9. The dispensing module according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein The piston (4) has a cylindrical shape and includes a number of slots (161 to 16 n ) of different sizes arranged at different positions around the circumference of the piston. The piston is rotatable about its axis to allow selection of the slot (16) for product supply.

10. The dispensing module according to any one of claims 1 to 7, said dispensing module comprising a plurality of needles (21 to 2 m ), said slot (16) having a substantially rectangular shape and being arranged on said piston (4) so as to be positioned in alignment with said lumen (11, 111) when said piston is in said first intermediate product supply zone.

11. The dispensing module according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The reservoir (5, 105) comprises a bottom (12), the reservoir and / or the bottom being inclined with respect to the axis of the channel (6).

12. The dispensing module according to claim 11, wherein, The angle of inclination between the bottom (12) of the reservoir (5, 105) and the axis of the channel (6) is included between 5° and 55°.

13. The dispensing module according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, The bottom (12) of the reservoir (5, 105) comprises a set of grooves (13) to allow the product to rise by capillary action to the bottom of the reservoir.

14. The dispensing module according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, The reservoir (105) is removable.

15. The dispensing module according to claim 14, wherein, The removable reservoir (105) includes means (123) for connecting the removable reservoir to the dispensing module, the connecting means including a baffle element (124) for the lumen (111), the baffle element (124) being movable between a closed position and an open position, in the closed position, the baffle element (124) closing the opening (111), and in the open position, the baffle element (124) releasing the opening (111), the baffle element being displaced from the closed position to the open position when the removable reservoir (105) is mounted on the dispensing module.

16. The dispensing module according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein, The reservoir (5, 105) includes means (132) for dispensing the product in the reservoir.

17. The dispensing module according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein, The reservoir (5, 105) includes a plug (127) removably mounted on the filling opening (10) of the reservoir (5, 105).

18. The dispensing module according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein, The reservoir (5, 105) includes a cap (14) allowing the filling opening (10) of the reservoir (5, 105) to be closed.

19. The dispensing module according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein, The reservoir (5, 105) includes an air inlet hole (126).

20. The dispensing module according to the combination of claims 15 and 19, wherein, The baffle element (124) is arranged to close the air inlet hole (126) when the baffle element is in the closed position, and the baffle element (124) is arranged to release the air inlet hole (126) when the baffle element is in the open position.

21. The dispensing module according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein, The front part of the channel (6) has the shape of an elongated spout (18).

22. A device for applying a coloring agent for permanent make-up or tattooing, characterized in that the device includes a dispensing module (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 21 and a module for actuating the needle (2) of the dispensing module.

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