Applicator member for applying product, in particular cosmetic product, and assembly for packaging and applying product comprising said applicator member

Abstract

An applicator member (10) for applying a cosmetic product, in particular a cosmetic product, extends along a general extension axis (Z2-Z2 ') and comprises an applicator portion (20) comprising a base portion (21), a distal end portion (24), and two opposing application arms (22, 23), the application arms extend along curvilinear axes (A1, A2) from the base (21) towards the distal end portion (24) and delimit therebetween a cavity (25) extending laterally along a transverse axis (Y). The two application arms (22, 23) each have a concave shape converging towards the distal end portion (24) in a first plane (XZ) comprising the extension axis (Z2-Z2 ') and the longitudinal axis (X), and each application arm (22, 23) has an elliptical shape in a second plane (YZ) oriented at 90 DEG with respect to the first plane (XZ) and comprising the extension axis (Z2-Z2') and the transverse axis (Y).

Description

[0001] This invention relates to an applicator component for packaging and applying cosmetic products (such as makeup products), specifically for applying the product to curved application surfaces (such as a user's lips).

[0002] "Cosmetic products" should be understood as products as defined in European Parliament and Council Regulation (EC) 1223 / 2009 of 30 November 2009 on cosmetic products.

[0003] Typically, the applicator component includes a fastening portion and an applicating portion. The fastening portion is designed to be mounted at the end of a lever that is fastened to a gripping component, and the applicating portion defines an applicating surface intended to contact the user's lips. The applicator component has a solid, generally elongated shape and is generally covered with an outer coating, for example, by flocking.

[0004] The gripping component is typically designed to seal the opening of a container holding the cosmetic product to be applied.

[0005] Document EP 3 530 141–A1 is also known, which proposes an applicator comprising an opening formed in the body of the applicator. The opening leads to the applicator's application surface and has a complex shape.

[0006] Document EP 2 397 046–B1 describes an applicator in the form of a spatula, the applicator including an orifice leading to the applicator's application surface.

[0007] Document WO 2013 / 99534–A1 discloses an applicator component comprising two opposing convex arms defining a space for storing product between the opposing arms, the space opening onto the applicator surface of the component. The applicator component disclosed in this document has an integral droplet shape.

[0008] However, none of the known applicator components can adapt to the curvature of the application surface, especially the user's lips.

[0009] The purpose of this invention is to provide a novel applicator for carefully applying cosmetics, which is comfortable to use and can hold a relatively large amount of product, while adapting to the curvature of the application surface, especially the user's lips.

[0010] One aspect of the present invention is an applicator component for applying cosmetic products, particularly makeup products, to a curved application surface, such as a user's lips. The applicator component extends along an integral extension axis and includes an applicator portion comprising: - Base; - The remote portion; and - Two opposing applicator arms extend from the base toward the distal portion along a curved axis and define a cavity extending laterally along a transverse axis between the two opposing applicator arms.

[0011] In a first plane including the extension axis and a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the extension axis and the transverse axis, each of the two applicator arms has a concave shape that converges toward the distal portion, and in a second plane oriented at 90° relative to the first plane and including the extension axis and the transverse axis, each applicator arm, in particular its outer applicator surface, has an elliptical shape or a pointed shape.

[0012] In other words, the two smear arms converge toward each other from the base to the distal end.

[0013] Therefore, the two applicator arms are connected to the base through their proximal ends and to the distal portion of the free end forming the applicator component through their distal ends.

[0014] "Concave" should be understood as a shape that curves inward, and is recessed, rather than a convex or dome-shaped shape, which curves outward.

[0015] The applicator's shape allows it to adapt to a wide range of lip shapes, thus giving it a degree of versatility.

[0016] In particular, the elliptical or pointed shape of the application surface of the arm, as observed in the second plane, allows for the creation of a large contact surface on the applicator component, which promotes application comfort and provides a certain intuitive understanding of the use of the applicator component and the movement of the application hand.

[0017] The cavity defined between the two applicator arms allows for both the formation of a product storage area within the applicator component and the creation of space for the applicator arms to bend when pressed against the surface to be made up (especially the surface of the lips), thereby achieving a very comfortable coverage, especially for the lower lip.

[0018] The ability of the application surface to bend upon contact with the surface to be made up allows at least a portion of the product contained in the cavity to be expelled, and also improves the comfort and feel of application.

[0019] Advantageously, the applicator arms are elastically deformable toward each other in the longitudinal direction.

[0020] "Elastically deformable" should be understood as any component that, due to the material used and / or its size, is capable of deforming under load applied by a user during application to a surface (e.g., lips) and is configured to return to its initial position once the load is removed.

[0021] The flexibility of the applicator arms allows them to deform elastically in a reversible manner, and thus adapt to the curvature of the lips for clean and precise application of cosmetic products.

[0022] In other words, the applicator components can store product within the cavity and are deformable in only one plane by bringing the applicator arms closer together. This aggregation allows for the dispensing of the product captured within the cavity.

[0023] Therefore, the applicator portion has an overall shape that is tapered in the first plane in order to further improve the flexibility of the applicator portion in the longitudinal direction.

[0024] Advantageously, each applicator arm is axially defined by an inner surface and an outer applicator surface, and laterally defined by two opposite sides.

[0025] Preferably, at least one of the outer coating surfaces of the coating arm is solid, i.e., there are no openings leading to the cavity.

[0026] Specifically, the presence of any pores leading into the cavity can adversely affect the application of the product to the surface to be coated.

[0027] In other words, the product contained in the cavity will not appear directly on the outer coating surface of the coating arm.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the cavity opens to at least one side of the applicator arm.

[0029] In the variant, the cavity can be configured to be a through cavity that extends to each side of the applicator arm.

[0030] When a user presses the outer application surface of one of the applicator arms against the surface to be covered (especially the lips), the product contained within the cavity is emptied laterally through one or both sides, rather than directly through the outer application surface. Thus, the product is applied by sweeping across the face from right to left.

[0031] For example, the distal portion is a straight line along the extended axis.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the applicator arm has a first thickness that is substantially constant along its curved axis.

[0033] The constant thickness of the application arm allows for uniform bending of the arm in the longitudinal direction.

[0034] The distal portion preferably has a second thickness greater than or equal to 150% of the first thickness of the applicator arm. Thus, the applicator component has a portion at its distal end with a greater mass than in the region of the cavity, which specifically constitutes a support region for the user, allowing the applicator arm to bend toward the interior of the cavity when in contact with the surface to which the product is applied.

[0035] "Thickness" should be understood as the dimension of the wall in the longitudinal direction.

[0036] For example, the applicator portion has a total height, the distal portion has a first height, and the cavity has a second height, wherein the first height of the distal portion is less than or equal to one-third of the total height, and the second height of the cavity is greater than or equal to two-thirds of the total height.

[0037] The ratio between the second height of the cavity and the first thickness of the applicator arm is preferably greater than or equal to 10. In other words, the cavity has a second height that is at least 10 times the first thickness of the applicator arm. This ratio between the second height of the cavity and the first thickness of the applicator arm advantageously allows the applicator arm to have an appropriate level of flexibility, thereby providing optimized applicator comfort.

[0038] For example, the second height of the cavity is approximately 13 times the first thickness of the coating arm.

[0039] Advantageously, the two smearing arms are symmetrical about the extension axis.

[0040] For example, the first curved axis of the first arm forms an arc, the first radius of curvature of which is the same as the second radius of curvature of the arc formed by the second curved axis of the second arm.

[0041] For example, the radius of curvature is between 10 mm and 20 mm.

[0042] Typically, the radius of curvature of the applicator arm is configured to adapt to the radius of curvature of the applicator surface, particularly to the convexity of the user's lips.

[0043] Advantageously, the cavity has a substantially triangular shape in the first plane, which is defined by the inner surface of the applicator arm and the axial surface of the base, particularly on the side opposite to the shoulder.

[0044] The axial surface is, for example, substantially planar and extends in a first plane.

[0045] The inner surfaces of the applicator arms form two opposite sides of the cavity and are slightly curved toward each other due to the curvature of the applicator arms.

[0046] Each inner surface forms a first angle and a second angle with the axial surface, respectively.

[0047] The first angle and the second angle are preferably equal.

[0048] The first inner surface and the second inner surface form a third angle, which is smaller than the first angle and the second angle.

[0049] For example, the axial surface of the cavity has a first width that is greater than or equal to at least 50% of the total width of the applicator portion.

[0050] Width should be understood in the sense of the longitudinal direction.

[0051] Therefore, the cavity has a large internal dimension in the longitudinal direction, which allows the applicator arm to have rigidity while promoting deformation of the applicator arm at the center.

[0052] For example, the base has an overall shape that is symmetrical about the extension axis.

[0053] For example, the base has a conical integral shape, the diameter of which gradually increases from the end of the base extending from the fastening part toward the distal end of the applicator part. In a variation, the base may be provided with some other shape.

[0054] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the applicator is covered with a surface coating, particularly flocking.

[0055] In the variant, the applicator section can be configured to not have flocking.

[0056] Flocking involves covering a surface by spraying or electrostatic deposition.

[0057] To do this, an adhesive is applied to the surface to be flocked, and then the coating material (e.g., a set of fibers) is sprayed toward the surface or transferred onto the surface by applying an electrostatic field. The adhesive holds the fibers in place and, after drying, keeps the fibers on the surface, thus achieving flocking.

[0058] In variations, another surface coating can be provided, such as nonwoven fabric, woven fabric, foam, and embossing.

[0059] Flocking allows for the imparting of softness and also forms a product reservoir, which increases the autonomy of the applicator components.

[0060] Preferably, the cavity has no surface coating, which may reduce the flexibility of the applicator arm, especially due to the presence of adhesive in the cavity.

[0061] Typically, the surface coating may be applied only, and at least partially, to the outer coating surface of the applicator arm.

[0062] The distal portion may, for example, not be coated with flocking or any surface coating.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the applicator component includes an end member or a fastening portion, from which an applicator portion extends, and a base is attached to one end of the fastening portion.

[0064] For example, the outer diameter of the base is larger than the outer diameter of the fastener to form a shoulder that is designed to be axially supported on the free end of the applicator's rod.

[0065] For example, the fastener has an overall shape that is symmetrical about the extension axis.

[0066] For example, the fastener has an integral cylindrical shape. In variations, the fastener can be provided with some other shape, such as a cross-section other than a circular cross-section.

[0067] For example, the fastening part includes a fastening stud at the end opposite to the applicator part, the diameter of which is smaller than the overall diameter of the fastening part. This fastening stud makes it easier to fasten to the rod. In a variation, the fastening part may not have this fastening stud.

[0068] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to an applicator for applying products, particularly cosmetic products, the applicator comprising the applicator components as described above and a gripping component connected directly or, particularly indirectly, via a rod to a fastening portion.

[0069] The fastening parts and rods of the applicator components are secured to each other, for example by adhesive bonding, clamping, force fitting, crimping, or any other fastening method.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the applicator includes a gripping member having a tubular mounting skirt and a transverse wall that extends substantially perpendicular to the extension axis and is attached to the mounting skirt.

[0071] For example, the mounting skirt includes a threaded inner surface designed to screw onto threads on the container neck. In variations, gripping members can be provided to close the container opening and secure to the container neck in any manner.

[0072] The lever advantageously includes a first end fastened to the applicator component and a second end fastened to the gripping component.

[0073] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to an assembly for packaging and applying products, particularly cosmetic products, the assembly comprising a container and an applicator as described above, the container defining at least one internal volume for containing the product, and at least an applicator component of the applicator being disposed within the container for loading the product contained in the container.

[0074] For example, the container extends along an overall extension axis that coincides with the extension axis of the applicator component.

[0075] The container body, for example, has a closed lower end forming a bottom and an upper end opposite the lower end forming a neck with an opening that allows access to the internal volume containing the product. In a variation, the container body may be configured without a neck, and an opening may be formed in the free edge of the container.

[0076] The outer diameter of the neck of the container is, for example, smaller than the outer diameter of the body of the container, and includes threads on its outer surface.

[0077] The body of the container can be made of, for example, a rigid synthetic material.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the product packaging and application assembly further includes a wiping member designed to wipe at least the wiping bar, or even the application device component, during removal of the applicator from the container. In the illustrated example, the wiping member can be any suitable type of tubular body having a substantially cylindrical shape, the outer diameter of which is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the neck of the container.

[0079] The invention will be better understood by studying the detailed description of the embodiments given by way of entirely non-limiting example and illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which: [ Figure 1 ] This is a schematic diagram of a packaging and coating assembly in longitudinal section according to an embodiment of the present invention; [ Figure 2 ] Shown separately Figure 1 A 3D view of the applicator component in the image; [ Figure 3 ] It shows Figure 2 Side view of the applicator component in the first plane; [ Figure 4 ] It shows Figure 2 A front view of the applicator component in a second plane perpendicular to the first plane; and [ Figure 5 ] It shows Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the applicator component in plane VV.

[0080] Figure 1 A component 1 for packaging and applying a product is shown. This component includes a container 2 defining an internal volume 2a that holds a product P to be applied to a user's lips, such as a cosmetic product, like a glossy lipstick, liquid lipstick, or skincare product. The device 1 for packaging and applying the product also includes an applicator or applicator 6 for applying the product.

[0081] Container 2 extends along an integral extension axis Z-Z', which is shown in a position assumed to be vertical. The body of container 2 has a closed lower end 3 forming a bottom and an upper end 4 opposite the lower end 3 forming a neck with an opening 5 allowing access to the internal volume 2a containing the product. In a variant, the body of the container may not include a neck, and an opening may be formed in the free edge of the container.

[0082] The body of container 2 can be made of, for example, rigid synthetic materials.

[0083] In the illustrated embodiment, the neck 4 of container 2 has an outer diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the body of container 2, and includes threads 4a on its outer surface. The body of container 2 may be made of, for example, a rigid composite material.

[0084] The applicator 6 or applicator extends along the overall longitudinal axis Z1-Z1', which is shown in a position assumed to be vertical. Figure 1 The vertical axes Z-Z' in the middle coincide. The applicator 6 includes a gripping member 7, a rod 8, and an applicator member 10.

[0085] Without implying any limitations, the gripping member 7 constitutes a closure for the container 2, which is designed to be fastened to the neck 4 of the container 2 to seal the container in a sealed manner when it is not in use. For this purpose, the gripping member 7 has a tubular mounting skirt 7a and a transverse wall 7b that extends substantially perpendicular to the axis Z1-Z1' and is attached to the mounting skirt 7a.

[0086] The mounting skirt 7a includes a threaded inner surface 7c designed to screw onto the thread 4a on the neck 4 of the container 2. In a variation, the gripping member 7 may be provided to close the opening 5 of the container 2 and be fastened to the neck of the container in any manner.

[0087] The rod 8 includes a first end 8a fastened to the applicator member 10 and a second end 8b fastened to the gripping member 7. In the illustrated example, the rod 8 has a circular cross-section substantially along its entire length. In variations, the cross-section of the rod can be set to other shapes, such as polygonal shapes (e.g., square or rectangular shapes) or even elliptical shapes.

[0088] The lever 8 and the gripping member 7 can be manufactured as a single piece, for example, by injection molding of a plastic material, and then the applicator member 10 is attached to it. The lever can be fastened to the gripping member by any other means, such as by adhesive bonding, threaded connection, etc.

[0089] like Figure 1As illustrated, the product packaging and application assembly 1 also includes a wiping member 9, which is designed to wipe at least the bar 8, or even the application member 10, during the removal of the applicator 6 from the container 2. In the illustrated example, the wiping member 9 can be of any suitable type, having a generally cylindrical tubular body 9a with an outer diameter substantially equal to the inner diameter of the neck 4 of the container 2.

[0090] The body 9a is defined by two opposite ends, one of which is in radial contact with the outer surface of the rod 8. The body 9a includes, for example, a member 9b in the form of an annular protrusion on its outer surface for retention on the container 2. This annular protrusion engages with a complementary shape 4b provided on the inner surface of the neck 4 of the container 2. Alternatively, the retaining member may be provided in the form of a plurality of parallel annular protrusions, or the protrusions may include at least two semicircular portions spaced apart from each other around the circumference of the body of the wiping member 9.

[0091] The wiping member 9 also has an annular flange 9c at the first free end of the body 9a. The outer diameter of the annular flange is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the mounting skirt 7a of the gripping member 7 of the applicator 6 and is axially supported on the neck 4 of the container 2.

[0092] The wiping member 9 includes an annular wiping lip 9d at a second end of the body 9a opposite to the first free end, which defines a wiping orifice 9e with a substantially circular cross-section at its free end.

[0093] The wiping lip 9d extends in the direction of the rod 8, and its dimensions are set to press against the rod 8 at least, or even against the applicator member 10, during the removal of the applicator from the container. In this case, the wiping lip 9d extends obliquely relative to the body 9a toward the axis Z1-Z1'.

[0094] The inner diameter of the orifice 9e is preferably less than or equal to the outer diameter of the rod 8, so as to scrape the outer surface of the rod 8 and prevent the product contained in the container 2 from escaping outward, especially outward, toward the space E defined between the rod 8 and the mounting skirt 7a of the gripping member 7 of the applicator 6.

[0095] The wiping member 9 can be made of, for example, an elastomeric material or polyolefin, particularly polyethylene or any other plastic material. The wiping lip 9c is, for example, more flexible than the body 9a of the wiping member 9.

[0096] As shown in the figure, the wiping member 9 includes a second lip 9f, which is inclined at, for example, 45° toward the first end and supported on the inner surface of the upper end of the container 2. In a variant, the wiping member may be configured without this lip.

[0097] The body 9a of the wiping member 9 also includes a portion 9g extending from the second lip 9f toward the lower end of the wiping member 9. In a variant, the wiping member may be provided without such a portion.

[0098] In the illustrated example, the flexible wiping lip 9 performs the function of guiding the applicator component 10 during its movement relative to the container 2, and wiping the bar and applicator component during the removal of the bar 8 and applicator component 10 from the container 2.

[0099] In variations, other types of wiping components can be used, such as a wiper including a corrugated conical wiping lip, wherein the wiping lip also performs the dual function of guiding and wiping the distal applicator portion, or a wiper having a conical rigid guide portion designed to guide the applicator component 10 and assemble with a deformable portion of the foam pad type to perform the function of wiping the applicator component 10.

[0100] like Figures 2 to 5 As shown in the detailed illustration, the applicator component 10 extends along an integral extension axis Z2-Z2', which is shown in a position assumed to be vertical. Figure 1 The axes Z-Z' in the middle coincide.

[0101] The applicator component 10 includes an end piece or fastening part 11 that can be inserted into the rod 8 of the applicator 6, and an applicator part 20 that protrudes from the end of the fastening part 11 opposite to the end that is fixed to the rod 8.

[0102] In this configuration, the fastener 11 has an overall shape that is symmetrical about the extending axis Z2-Z2'. As shown, the fastener 11 has an overall cylindrical shape. In variations, the fastener 11 can be provided with some other shape, such as a cross-section other than a circular cross-section.

[0103] As shown in the figure, the fastening part 11 includes a fastening stud 12 at the end opposite to the applicator part 20. The diameter of the fastening stud is smaller than the overall diameter of the fastening part 11. This fastening stud 12 makes it easier to fasten to the rod 8. In a variation, the fastening part 11 may not have this fastening stud 12.

[0104] The fastening part 11 and the rod 8 of the applicator component 10 are fixed to each other, for example by adhesive bonding, clamping, force fitting or any other fastening method.

[0105] The applicator component 20 includes a base 21 attached to the fastener 11 at the end opposite to the end fixed to the rod 8, two applicator arms 22, 23 extending from the base 21 toward the distal end of the applicator component 20 along curved axes A1, A2, and a distal portion 24 positioned opposite to the base 21.

[0106] In this case, the base 21 has an overall shape that is symmetrical about the extending axis Z2-Z2'. As shown, the base 21 has a conical overall shape, the diameter of which gradually increases from the end of the base 21 extending from the fastening part 11 toward the distal end of the applicator part 20. In a variation, the base 21 may be provided with some other shape.

[0107] In this case, the outer diameter L2 of the base 21 is larger than the outer diameter L3 of the fastener 11 to form a shoulder 21a, which is intended to be axially supported on the free end of the rod 8 of the applicator 6.

[0108] like Figure 3 and Figure 5 As illustrated, in a first plane XZ including the vertical axis Z and the longitudinal axis X, two applicator arms 22, 23 converge from the base 21 toward each other to the distal portion 24.

[0109] Therefore, the two applicator arms 22, 23 are connected to the base 21 via their proximal ends (unmarked) and to the distal portion 24 forming the free end of the applicator component 20 via their distal ends (unmarked).

[0110] In this case, the distal portion 24 is a straight line along the extension axis Z2-Z2' of the applicator component 20.

[0111] In this case, the vertex 24a of the distal portion 24 has a circular, convex, or outwardly dome shape.

[0112] The distal portion indicates the position closer to the free end of the applicator member 20 than to the fastening portion 11. The distal direction is opposite to the proximal direction.

[0113] A cavity 25 is defined between the two applicator arms 22 and 23, which extends laterally along a transverse axis Y perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X.

[0114] The two applicator arms 22 and 23 are symmetrical about the axis Z2-Z2'.

[0115] The two applicator arms 22 and 23 have concave shapes in the first plane XZ that converge toward the distal portion 24.

[0116] "Concave" should be understood as a shape that curves inward, and is recessed, rather than a convex or dome-shaped shape, which curves outward.

[0117] The curved axis A1 of the first arm 22 forms an arc, the radius of curvature R1 of which is the same as the radius of curvature R2 of the arc formed by the curved axis A2 of the second arm 23.

[0118] For example, the radii of curvature R1 and R2 are between 10 mm and 20 mm.

[0119] Typically, the curvature radius of the applicator arms 22 and 23 is configured to adapt to the curvature radius of the applicator surface, particularly to the convexity of the user's lips.

[0120] Each applicator arm 22, 23 is axially defined by inner surfaces 22a, 23a and outer applicator surfaces 22b, 23b, and laterally defined by two opposite sides 22c, 23c.

[0121] The application arms 22 and 23 are elastically deformable toward each other in the longitudinal direction X.

[0122] "Elastically deformable" should be understood as any component that, due to the material used and / or its size, is capable of deforming under load applied by a user during application to a surface (e.g., lips) and is configured to return to its initial position once the load is removed.

[0123] The flexibility of the applicator arms 22 and 23 allows them to deform elastically in a reversible manner and thus adapt to the curvature of the lips for clean and precise application of cosmetic products.

[0124] The application arms 22 and 23 have a thickness e that is substantially constant along their curved axes A1 and A2.

[0125] The constant thickness of the coating arms 22 and 23 allows the arms to bend uniformly in the longitudinal direction X.

[0126] The thickness e2 of the distal portion 24 is greater than the thickness e of the applicator arms 22 and 23. For example, the thickness e2 of the distal portion 24 is greater than or equal to 150% of the thickness e of the applicator arms 22 and 23.

[0127] "Thickness" should be understood as the dimension in the longitudinal direction X.

[0128] like Figure 5 As shown in the figure, the applicator portion 20 has a total height H, the distal portion 24 has a height H1, and the cavity 25 has a height H2.

[0129] The height H1 of the distal portion 24 is less than or equal to one-third of the total height H, and the height H2 of the cavity 25 is greater than or equal to two-thirds of the total height H.

[0130] The ratio between the height H2 of the cavity 25 and the thickness e of the applicator arms 22, 23 is greater than or equal to 10. In other words, the cavity 25 has a second height H2, which is at least 10 times the first thickness e of the applicator arms 22, 23.

[0131] For example, the second height H2 of cavity 25 is approximately 13 times the first thickness e of coating arms 22, 23.

[0132] Typically, the applicator portion 20 has an overall shape that is tapered in the first plane XZ in order to further improve the flexibility of the applicator portion 20 in the longitudinal direction X.

[0133] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As illustrated, in a second plane YZ that includes a vertical axis Z and a horizontal axis Y and is oriented at 90° relative to the first plane XZ, the outer application surfaces 22b and 23b of each application arm 22 and 23 have an elliptical or pointed shape.

[0134] In this configuration, cavity 25 is either a through cavity or extends to each side 22c, 23c of the applicator arms 22, 23. In a variant, cavity 25 may be configured to extend to only one side of the applicator arms 22, 23.

[0135] In other words, cavity 25 does not connect to the external coating surfaces 22b and 23b of coating arms 22 and 23.

[0136] Typically, at least one of the outer application surfaces 22b and 23b of the application arms 22 and 23 is solid, meaning there are no openings leading to the cavity 25. Specifically, the presence of any openings leading to the cavity 25 could adversely affect the application of the product to the surface to be coated.

[0137] The cavity 25 has a substantially triangular shape in the first plane XZ, which is defined by the inner surfaces 22a, 23a of the applicator arms 22, 23 and the axial surface 25a of the base 21 on the side opposite to the shoulder 21a.

[0138] In this case, the axial surface 25a is substantially planar and extends in the plane XY.

[0139] The inner surfaces 22a and 23a form two opposite sides of the cavity 25 and are slightly curved toward each other due to the curvature of the smear arms 22 and 23.

[0140] Each inner surface 22a, 23a forms a first angle α1 and a second angle α2 with the axial surface 25a, respectively.

[0141] In this case, the first angle α1 and the second angle α2 are equal.

[0142] The first inner surface 22a and the second inner surface 23a form a third angle α3, which is smaller than the first angle α1 and the second angle α2.

[0143] The width L1 of the axial surface 25a of the cavity 25 is less than the total width L of the applicator section 20.

[0144] Width should be understood in the sense of the longitudinal direction X.

[0145] As shown in the figure, in this case, the total width L of the applicator portion 20 is greater than the width L2 of the base portion 21, which is greater than the width L3 of the fastening portion 11.

[0146] The width L1 is at least 50% of the total width L of the applicator section 20. Therefore, the cavity 25 has a large internal dimension in the longitudinal direction X, which allows the applicator arms 22, 23 to have rigidity while promoting deformation of the applicator arms at the center.

[0147] The cavity 25 defined between the two applicator arms 22 and 23 allows for both the formation of a product storage section within the applicator component 10 and the creation of space for the applicator arms to bend when pressed against the surface to be made up (especially the surface of the lips).

[0148] Specifically, when the user presses the outer application surface of one of the application arms 22, 23 against the surface to be covered (especially the lips), the product contained in the cavity 25 is emptied laterally via the sides 22c, 23c, rather than directly via the outer application surface. Thus, the product is applied by sweeping across the face from right to left.

[0149] The ability of the application surfaces 22 and 23 to bend when in contact with the surface to be made up allows at least a portion of the product contained in the cavity 25 to be expelled, and also improves the comfort and feel of application.

[0150] The applicator section 20 is preferably covered with flocking (not shown in the figure). In a variant, the applicator section 20 may be provided without flocking.

[0151] Flocking involves coating a surface by spraying. To do this, an adhesive is applied to the surface to be flocked, and then a coating material, such as a set of fibers, is sprayed in the direction of the surface. The adhesive holds the fibers in place and, after drying, keeps them on the surface, thus achieving the flocking effect.

[0152] In variations, another surface coating can be provided, such as nonwoven fabric, woven fabric, foam, and embossing.

[0153] Flocking allows for the imparting of softness and also forms a product reservoir, which increases the autonomy of the applicator component 10.

[0154] Typically, the surface coating may be applied only, and at least partially, to the outer coating surfaces 22b and 23b of the coating arms 22 and 23.

[0155] The distal portion 24 may not be flocked or coated with any surface coating.

[0156] In addition, the walls 22a, 23a, 25a of the cavity 25 are preferably not coated with flocking or any surface coating, which may reduce the flexibility of the coating arms 22, 23.

[0157] In this case, the applicator component 10 is produced in one piece, for example by injection molding of a plastic material (such as an elastomer), which makes it possible to obtain a flexible applicator part 20, such as a thermoplastic material, such as SEBS (styrene-ethylene / butene-styrene), particularly having a Shore A hardness of 90 or lower, depending on the desired flexibility, or Hytrel®, particularly having a Shore D hardness of 50 or 55 or lower.

[0158] The applicator component 10 is at least partially made of a material with a stiffness less than that of the material of the rod 8.

[0159] The applicator portion 20 of the applicator component 10 can be at least partially made of a material with a stiffness less than that of the material of the fastening portion 11. Therefore, the applicator portion 20 is flexible relative to the rod 8, and particularly relative to the fastening portion 11 fastened in the rod 8. This flexibility of the applicator portion 20 improves the comfort of applying the product to the area to be covered.

[0160] The applicator portion 20 according to the invention is shaped to accommodate a wide range of lip shapes.

[0161] Furthermore, with the packaging and application assembly according to the invention, the applicator section 20 is directly immersed in the container holding the product to be applied. Therefore, loading the product onto the applicator section 20 is automatic and requires no additional manual movement.

[0162] The flexibility of the applicator portion 20 allows it to deform as it passes over the wiping member, which enables the hollow portion of the curved applicator portion 20 to be wiped evenly. Therefore, optimal makeup results are achieved for the user.

Claims

1. An applicator component (10) for applying cosmetic products (P), particularly cosmetic products, the applicator component extending along an integral extension axis (Z2-Z2') and including an applicator portion (20), the applicator portion comprising: - Base (21); - The distal portion (24); as well as - Two opposing applicator arms (22, 23) extending from the base (21) toward the distal portion (24) along curved axes (A1, A2), and defining a cavity (25) extending laterally along a transverse axis (Y) between the two opposing applicator arms, characterized in that: - In a first plane (XZ) including the extended axis (Z2-Z2') and a longitudinal axis (X) perpendicular to the extended axis (Z2-Z2') and the transverse axis (Y), the two applicator arms (22, 23) each have a concave shape converging toward the distal portion (24), and are characterized in that, in a second plane (YZ) oriented at 90° relative to the first plane (XZ) and including the extended axis (Z2-Z2') and the transverse axis (Y), each applicator arm (22, 23) has an elliptical shape.

2. The applicator component (10) according to claim 1, wherein, The applicator arms (22, 23) are elastically deformable toward each other in the longitudinal direction (X).

3. The applicator component (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Each applicator arm (22, 23) is axially defined by an inner surface (22a, 23a) and an outer applicator surface (22b, 23b), and laterally defined by two opposite sides (22c, 23c).

4. The applicator component (10) according to claim 3, wherein, At least one of the outer coating surfaces (22b, 23b) of the coating arms (22, 23) is solid.

5. The applicator component (10) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The cavity (25) opens to at least one side (22c, 23c) of the applicator arm (22, 23).

6. The applicator component (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The distal portion (24) is straight along the extended axis (Z2-Z2').

7. The applicator component (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The applicator arms (22, 23) have a first thickness (e) that is substantially constant along their curved axes (A1, A2).

8. The applicator component (10) according to claim 7, wherein, The distal portion (24) has a second thickness (e2) that is greater than or equal to 150% of the first thickness (e) of the applicator arm (22, 23).

9. The applicator component (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The applicator portion (20) has a total height (H), the distal portion (24) has a first height (H1), and the cavity (25) has a second height (H2). The first height (H1) of the distal portion (24) is less than or equal to one-third of the total height (H), and the second height (H2) of the cavity (25) is greater than or equal to two-thirds of the total height (H).

10. The applicator component (10) according to claim 9 in conjunction with any one of claims 7 and 8, wherein, The ratio between the second height (H2) of the cavity (25) and the first thickness (e) of the applicator arm (22, 23) is greater than or equal to 10.

11. The applicator component (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The two application arms (22, 23) are symmetrical about the extension axis (Z2-Z2').

12. The applicator component (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first curved axis (A1) of the first arm (22) forms an arc, and the first radius of curvature (R1) of the arc is the same as the second radius of curvature (R2) of the arc formed by the second curved axis (A2) of the second arm (23).

13. The applicator component (10) according to claim 3 in conjunction with any of the preceding claims, wherein, The cavity (25) has a substantially triangular shape in the first plane (XZ) defined by the inner surfaces (22a, 23a) of the applicator arms (22, 23) and the axial surface (25a) of the base (21).

14. The applicator component (10) according to claim 13, wherein, The axial surface (25a) of the cavity (25) has a first width (L1) that is greater than or equal to at least 50% of the total width (L) of the applicator portion (20).

15. The applicator component (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least a portion of the applicator section (20) is covered with a surface coating, particularly flocking.

16. The applicator component (10) according to claim 15, wherein, The cavity (25) has no surface coating.

17. An applicator component according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a fastening portion (11), the applicator portion (20) extending from the fastening portion, and the base portion (21) attached to one end of the fastening portion (11).

18. An applicator (6) for applying products, particularly cosmetic products, the applicator comprising an applicator component (10) according to claim 17 and a gripping component (7) specifically connected directly or indirectly via a rod (8) to the fastener (11).

19. A component (1) for packaging and applying products, particularly cosmetic products, the component comprising a container (2) and an applicator (6) according to claim 18, the container defining at least one internal volume (2a) for containing the product (P), and at least the applicator component (10) of the applicator being disposed within the container (2) for loading the product contained in the container.

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