DEVICE FOR APPLYING A LIQUID PRODUCT

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to a device for applying a fluid or paste-like product to keratin fibers or to the epidermis. In particular, the invention relates to a device for applying a cosmetic, makeup, or skincare product to hair, eyelashes, eyebrows, skin, or lips. STATE OF PRIOR ART

[0002] Applicator devices for fluid or paste-like products on keratin fibers, such as mascara brushes, currently exist. These devices comprise an elongated central core extending along a longitudinal axis, and at least one row of elongated bristles, each with one end embedded in the core and the other free. Typically, the bristles and the core are formed from a single molded piece, each made from the same material. For example, document FR 2 937 514 describes such applicator devices. A drawback of this design is that the bristles are monolithic, and their end embedded in the core has a larger cross-section than the bristle's free end, primarily due to molding techniques. Consequently, the bristle, regardless of the material used, is relatively inflexible.Indeed, the bristle will offer some resistance when the applicator device comes into frontal or lateral contact with a keratin fiber (or the epidermis). Consequently, the bristle will prick, for example, the eyelid when applying eyelash makeup, the skin when applying eyebrow makeup, or the lips or scalp.

[0003] A first solution to this comfort issue is provided by document US2012 / 0170965, which describes a spike comprising a conical anchoring end with the same large cross-section as before, and a very flexible free end that can be bent so that the tip does not prick the epidermis. However, this solution has two drawbacks. The first is that the flexibility of the free end, as well as its bend, prevents the keratin fibers from being untangled during application. The other drawback is that, because the base of the spike is rigid, the product between the rigid bases of the spike cannot travel up to the free end of the spikes to be applied to the keratin fibers or the epidermis. An applicator device according to the preamble of claim 1 is described in document WO 2017 / 003506 A1. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0004] One aim of the invention is to provide an applicator device for a fluid or paste product allowing optimal application of the product while providing an improved feeling of comfort to its user.

[0005] To this end, according to the invention, an applicator device according to claim 1 is provided.

[0006] Thus, this spike structure maintains a distal layer sufficiently rigid to disentangle and guide the keratin fibers. The flexible connection formed by the proximal layer and / or the bridge acts as a shock absorber, eliminating the pricking sensation when the free end of the spike comes into contact with the underlying skin. The resulting deformation at the base of the spike allows the product present there to move upwards towards the free end of the spike.

[0007] Advantageously, but optionally, the applicator device according to the invention has at least one of the following technical characteristics: The proximal stage forms the flexible connection between the anchor end and the bridge; the bridge forms the flexible connection between the proximal and distal stages; the proximal stage has a curved shape, specifically an arc; the pin has a flexible foot extending between the bridge and the core and supporting the distal stage; the proximal stage has a flexible arch with two feet, the bridge being located at the midpoint of the arch; two adjacent pins each have a flexible arch, the two adjacent flexible arches having a common foot; the common foot extends at a distance from an external surface of the arch; the distal stage has a primary extension and at least one secondary extension; the secondary extension projects from the primary extension; the secondary extension projects from the bridge; the distal stage has two to four secondary extensions;Each of the secondary extensions projects from an independent associated bridge forming a flexible connection; the core is hollow; the core has a longitudinal slot parallel to the longitudinal axis X; the applicator device has a support, the core is developable so as to be received on the support; the support has a product delivery conduit at one end of the support or through the hollow core; the device further includes means for implementing a path of the product P in the conduit; the pins are distributed on the core in adjacent rows, the pins of the same row being oriented in the same way and the pins of an adjacent row being oriented differently; and, the pins of the adjacent row are oriented at 90° or 180°. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0008] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of an embodiment of the invention. See the attached drawings: there figure 1 presents three-dimensional, front, side and top views of a first embodiment of a stud on an applicator device according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention; figures 2 to 14 are views illustrating different implementations of the picot of the figure 1 only the figures 5a, 5b, 8, 11 and 12 being variants conforming to the invention; the figure 15 is a three-dimensional view of an embodiment of an applicator device according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention comprising a plurality of pins of the figure 1 ; there figure 16 presents three-dimensional, front, side and top views of a second embodiment of a stud on an applicator device according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention; Figures 17 and 18are views illustrating different implementations of the picot of the figure 16 which are not in accordance with the invention; the Figures 19 and 20 are three-dimensional and front views of an embodiment of an applicator device comprising a plurality of pins of the figure 16 not in accordance with invention c; the Figures 21 and 22 are side views of variant embodiments of the applicator device of the figure 19 which are not in accordance with the invention; the Figures 23 and 24 are three-dimensional and front views of an embodiment of an applicator device according to the invention comprising a plurality of pins Figures 25 and 26 ; there figure 25 presents three-dimensional and top views of a third embodiment of a stud for an applicator device according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention; the figures 26 to 36 are views illustrating different implementations of the picot of the figure 25 , the illustrated studs on the figures 27, 29, 32, 33a, 33b, 34a, 34b illustrating possibilities not in accordance with the invention; the Figures 37 and 38 are three-dimensional and front views of an embodiment of an applicator device according to the invention comprising a plurality of pins of the figure 14 according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention; the figure 39 is a three-dimensional view of an embodiment of an applicator device according to the invention comprising a plurality of pins Figures 27 And 34 ; there figure 40 is a three-dimensional view of an embodiment of an applicator device comprising a plurality of pins of the figure 14 according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention; the figure 41 is a three-dimensional view of an embodiment of an applicator device comprising a plurality of pins of the figure 2 according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention; the figure 42presents three-dimensional views of a first embodiment of a developable hollow core comprising pins according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention; the figure 43 presents three-dimensional views of a core assembly of the figure 42 on a first embodiment of a support associated with an applicator device comprising studs according to a possibility not conforming to the invention; the figure 44 presents three-dimensional, front and side views of a second embodiment of a developable hollow core comprising studs according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention; the figure 45 presents three-dimensional views of a core assembly of the figure 44 on a second embodiment of an associated support for an applicator device comprising studs according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention; the figures 46 to 49are views illustrating variant embodiments of the second embodiment of the support associated with the core of the figure 44 including studs according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention. Figures 50 and 51 are top and cross-sectional views according to LI-LI of a variant embodiment of the support associated with the core of the figure 45 including studs according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention; the figure 52 is a three-dimensional view of the support associated with the core of the figure 50 upon which the hollow soul of the figure 44 including protrusions according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention, with a path for the cosmetic product; the Figures 53 and 54 are top and cross-sectional views according to LIV-LIV of a variant embodiment of the support associated with the core of the figure 46 including studs according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention; the Figures 55 and 56 are three-dimensional views of the support associated with the core of the figure 53on which is mounted a hollow core comprising studs according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention, with a path for the cosmetic product; and, The Figures 57 and 58 are side views of two variant embodiments of an applicator device comprising the support associated with the core of the figures 53 to 56 including studs according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention.

[0009] For clarity, identical or similar elements are identified by identical reference symbols across all figures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A METHOD OF IMPLEMENTATION

[0010] With reference to the figure 15We will describe a first embodiment of an applicator device 1 according to a possibility not conforming to the invention. The applicator device 1 is, in this case, a mascara brush. It comprises a core 2 extending longitudinally along a longitudinal axis X. The core 2 may have a constant or variable cross-section over its length. In the most common embodiments, either the cross-section is constant, or it decreases from a proximal end engaged with a tube and / or a gripping handle to a free distal end. Generally, the core 2 is overall cylindrical in shape, preferably of revolution about the longitudinal axis X. Thus, the cross-section of the core 2 may have a circular, polygonal, oval, or other shape. It may be axisymmetric. The core 2 may be solid or hollow.The person in the art will choose the most appropriate soul based on economic and / or technical constraints.

[0011] On the other hand, the applicator device 1 comprises a plurality of pins 10 distributed on the core 2. The pins 10 project from an external peripheral surface of the core 2. The pins 10 are, for example, formed from the material along with the core 2. In particular, the pins 10 are obtained by molding with the core 2. As illustrated here, the pins 10 are arranged in adjacent rows, two by two, extending longitudinally parallel to the longitudinal axis X. The pins 10 in the same row extend in the same way, with the same orientation, parallel to each other, from the core 2. Here, considering two adjacent rows, the pins 10 in one of the adjacent rows are oriented differently from the pins 10 in the other adjacent row, for example, as illustrated in the figure 15, at 180°. Alternatively, the orientation is 90°.

[0012] With reference to the figure 1We will now describe in more detail a first embodiment of a pin 10 for an applicator device 1. The pin 10 comprises an anchoring end 14 and a free end 12. The anchoring end 14 is connected to the core 2 of the applicator device 1 according to the invention. The pin 10 thus extends from the anchoring end 14 to the free end 12, here in a plane P of symmetry. From the anchoring end 14, the pin 10 comprises a proximal stage 13 followed by a bridge 15 and then a distal stage 11 terminating in the free end 12. The bridge 15 serves as a junction between the proximal stage 13 and the distal stage 11. The distal stage 11 here comprises a main extension of frustoconical shape. The proximal cranial fossa 13 is, in this case, curved like a crosier, with its apex located at a distance from the bridge 15, which is thus situated at a lower height than the apex. Alternatively, the bridge 15 is located at the level of the apex of the curved form of the proximal cranial fossa 13.This curved shape of the proximal stage 13 allows to give a certain flexibility to the proximal stage 13. Thus the proximal stage 13 forms a flexible link between the anchoring end 14 (and therefore the core 2 of the applicator device 1 according to the invention) and the bridge 15.

[0013] According to different embodiment variants, with the bridge 15 positioned on a free end of the curved form of the proximal floor 13, this free end of the curved form of the proximal floor 13 forms an apron in a direction which can be parallel to the X axis (i.e. the bridge 15 is located at the level of the apex of the curved form of the proximal floor 13), or in a direction which brings it closer to the X axis (the bridge 15 is located at a height lower than that of the apex of the curved form of the proximal floor 13), or on the contrary in a direction which moves it away from the X axis.

[0014] According to an alternative embodiment of the pin 10 not conforming to the invention, illustrated in the figure 2 , the proximal stage 113 of the pin 110 is in the shape of an arc of a circle of the order of a quarter arc of a circle.

[0015] According to a second embodiment of the pin 10 not conforming to the invention, illustrated in the figure 3, the proximal 213 of the picot 210 is thinned and presents a flat face 201 included in the plane P of symmetry. This flat face 201 continues into the bridge 215, giving the latter a certain flexibility in addition to that of the proximal floor 213. Again, as with the bridge 15, according to different embodiment variants, the bridge 215 being positioned on a free end of the curved form of the proximal floor 213, this free end of the curved form of the proximal floor 213 forms an apron in a direction which can be parallel to the X axis (that is to say that the bridge 215 is located at the level of the apex of the curved form of the proximal floor 213), or in a direction which brings it closer to the X axis (the bridge 215 is located at a lower height than that of the apex of the curved form of the proximal floor 213), or on the contrary in a direction which moves it away from the X axis.

[0016] According to a third embodiment of the pin 10 not conforming to the invention, illustrated in the figure 4The proximal segment 313 of the picot 310 is thinned as before and presents a flat face 301 contained within the plane P of symmetry. Conversely, the distal segment 311 is also thinned and presents a flat face 302 likewise contained within the plane P of symmetry. The arrangement is such that the proximal segment 313 extends on one side of the plane P of symmetry, while the distal segment 311 extends on the other side. Furthermore, the flat face 302 continues into the bridge 315, providing the latter with a degree of flexibility in addition to that of the proximal segment 313.Again, as with bridge 15,215, according to different embodiment variants, bridge 315 being positioned on a free end of the curved form of the proximal floor 313, this free end of the curved form of the proximal floor 313 forms a deck in a direction which can be parallel to the X axis (i.e. that bridge 315 is located at the level of the apex of the curved form of the proximal floor 313), or in a direction which brings it closer to the X axis (bridge 315 is located at a lower height than that of the apex of the curved form of the proximal floor 313), or on the contrary in a direction which moves it away from the X axis.

[0017] In figure 5A fourth embodiment of the pin 10 according to the invention is illustrated. The pin 410 differs from the pin 10 in that it comprises a distal stage 11 whose main extension is oriented so as to form an angle α with the plane P of symmetry. In a variant 411 not according to the invention illustrated in the figure 6 The main extension lies in the plane P of symmetry but forms an angle with a vertical. More generally, in this embodiment, the main extension has an orientation contained within a cone with apex angle 2α, the apex of which is located here at bridge 15.

[0018] In figures 7 to 9 , a fifth variant of the picot 10, as well as variations are illustrated, only the variation according to the figure 8being in accordance with the invention. The pin 101 comprises a distal stage including a main extension 11a and a secondary extension 11b projecting from the bridge 15 and forming an angle with each other. The pin 102 comprises a distal stage including a main extension 11a and a secondary extension 17 projecting from a lateral wall of the main extension 11a. The pin 103 comprises a distal stage including a main extension 11a and a secondary extension 18 projecting from the proximal stage 13.

[0019] A sixth embodiment of the pin 10, not in accordance with the invention, is illustrated in Figure 10The spike 104 further comprises, at its proximal end 13, a flexible foot 16 extending between the bridge 15 and the core 2 and supporting the distal end 11. The flexibility of the flexible foot 16 is such that the proximal end 13 always forms a flexible connection between the bridge 15 and the anchoring end 14 when pressure is applied to the free end 12 of the spike 104. However, the flexible foot 16 retains the spike 104, preventing it from elongating or tilting backward when, during use, the spike 104 comes into contact at its free end 12 with a lip of a wringer on a tube containing the fluid product and in which the applicator device 1 according to the invention is stored. Figures 11 and 12 illustrate variant embodiments 105 and 106 of the pins 102 and 101 respectively comprising the flexible foot 16 and which conform to the invention.

[0020] In figure 13A seventh embodiment of the pin 10, not in accordance with the invention, is illustrated. The pin 510 of this embodiment comprises, from the anchoring end 14 to the free end 12, the proximal stage 513, the bridge 515, and the distal stage 511. Furthermore, the pin 510 has a lateral face 514 extending over the entire height of the pin 510 and bearing against a circle C. The circle C lies in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X, a point of intersection of the longitudinal axis X with the plane of the circle C, and on the circle C. Such a configuration of the circle C supporting a face of the pin is described in detail in document FR 2 937 514, to which reference may be made for further information.

[0021] Again, as with bridge 15,215,315, according to different embodiment variants, bridge 515 being positioned on a free end of the curved form of the proximal floor 513, this free end of the curved form of the proximal floor 513 forms a deck in a direction which can be parallel to the X axis (that is to say that bridge 515 is located at the level of the apex of the curved form of the proximal floor 513), or in a direction which brings it closer to the X axis (bridge 515 is located at a lower height than that of the apex of the curved form of the proximal floor 513), or on the contrary in a direction which moves it away from the X axis.

[0022] An eighth embodiment of the pin 10, not in accordance with the invention, is illustrated in figure 14The pin 610 of this variant embodiment comprises, from the anchoring end 14 to the free end 12, the proximal stage 613, the bridge 615 and the distal stage 611. The main difference is that the anchoring end 14 is here located substantially vertically above the bridge 615, giving the pin 610 a shape close to a deformed "S" in side view ( figure 14a ). Front view ( figure 14b ) the pin 610 is contained in the plane P of symmetry.

[0023] In Figures 37 and 38An arrangement of a plurality of pins 610 in an embodiment of an applicator device 5 is illustrated, according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention. As previously stated, the pins 610 in the same row extend in the same manner along the same orientation, parallel to each other, from the core 2: here, the plane P of symmetry of the pins 610 is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. Again, considering two adjacent rows, the pins 610 in one of the adjacent rows are oriented differently from the pins 610 in the other adjacent row, at 180°, while being longitudinally offset from one adjacent row to the other. Thus, in the front view illustrated in the figure 38 , the applicator device 5 according to the invention has a series of lobes (here five in number) uniformly distributed over a circumference of the core 2.

[0024] In figure 40Another arrangement of a plurality of pins 610 is illustrated in an embodiment of an applicator device 7 according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention. As previously stated, the pins 610 in the same row extend in the same way along the same orientation, parallel to each other, from the core 2: here the plane P of symmetry of the pins 610 passes substantially through the longitudinal axis X. Again, considering two adjacent rows, the pins 610 in one of the adjacent rows are oriented differently from the pins 610 in the other adjacent row, at 180°.

[0025] In figure 41 is illustrated a similar implantation of a plurality of pins 110 in an embodiment of an applicator device 8 according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention.

[0026] We will now describe a second embodiment of a 710 pin for an applicator device according to a possibility not conforming to the invention with reference to figures 16 to 22 The pin 710 differs from the previously described pin 10 in that its proximal segment has an arch formed by two mirror-image curved shapes 713. Here, each of the curved shapes 713 is similar to the proximal segment 13 of the previously described pin 10. The bridge 715 is located at a junction of the two curved shapes 713, each forming an anchor foot extending from the anchor end 14. The distal segment 11 extends from the bridge 715 to the free end 12.

[0027] In the first embodiment not conforming to the invention illustrated in the figure 17The pin 720 has a thinned arch 723 which presents a flat face 726 contained within the plane P of symmetry. This flat face 726 continues into the bridge 725, giving the latter a certain flexibility in addition to that of the proximal level.

[0028] In a second embodiment not conforming to the invention illustrated in the figure 18 The pin 730 comprises an arch formed by two thinned curved shapes 733 and 734, each with a flat face 726 and 736 respectively contained in the plane P of symmetry. The arrangement is such that one 733 of the curved shapes extends from one side of the plane P of symmetry, while the other 734 of the curved shapes extends from the other side of the plane P of symmetry.

[0029] Again, as with bridge 15, 215, 315, according to different embodiments, bridge 715, 725 being positioned on a free end of the curved form of the proximal floor 713, 723, 733, 734, this free end of the curved form of the proximal floor 713, 723, 733, 734 forms a deck in a direction that can be parallel to the X-axis (i.e., bridge 715, 725 is located at the level of the apex of the curved form of the proximal floor 713, 723, 733, 734), or in a direction that brings it closer to the X-axis (bridge 715, 725 is located at a height lower than that of the apex of the curved form of the proximal floor 713, 723, 733, 734), or, on the contrary, in a direction that moves it away from the X-axis

[0030] In Figures 19 and 20We have illustrated an arrangement of a plurality of pins 710 on an applicator device 3 according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention. As previously stated, the pins 710 in the same row extend in the same manner along the same orientation, parallel to each other, from the core 2. For example, the top and bottom rows have pins 710 whose plane P of symmetry is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. Whereas the pins 710 in the rows adjacent to these two top and bottom rows are oriented at 90°, their plane P of symmetry passing substantially through the longitudinal axis X of the core 2. Furthermore, the pins 710 are arranged such that three adjacent pins 710, one from the top row and two from one of the adjacent rows, have a common anchoring foot 713a.In an alternative embodiment, this common anchor foot 713b is shortened so that, at rest, it extends at a distance and opposite a peripheral surface of the web as illustrated in the . figure 21 on an applicator device 3a according to the invention. In this case, the anchor foot 713b serves as a support stop, allowing the flexibility of the pins 716 sharing this common anchor foot 713b to be modified during use of the applicator device 3a according to the invention. In another embodiment of the applicator device 3b according to the invention, illustrated in figure 22 The common anchoring foot 713c is reduced to a simple junction between the pins 718. It is possible to mix the common anchoring feet 713a, 713b and 713c of pins 710, 716, 717 and 718 in the same arrangement. This allows the flexibility of the pins of the applicator device to be modulated.

[0031] Now, we will describe a third embodiment of a pin for an applicator device 4, with reference to figures 23 to 26 only the spikes according to the figure 26 being in accordance with the invention. The pin 1010 comprises, from the anchoring end 14, a proximal stage 1013, a bridge 1015, and a distal stage 11, 1011 extending to the free end 12. The distal end here comprises a main extension 11 extending from the bridge 1015 and a secondary extension 1011 extending from the bridge 1015 along and at a distance from the main extension 11. Here, it is the bridge 1015 that forms the flexible connection between the proximal stage 1013 and the distal stage 11, 1011. The secondary extension 1011 forms an angle in the plane P of symmetry with the main extension 11. As an alternative to the pin 1010b, illustrated in figure 26 , the secondary extension 1011b also forms an angle with the plane P of symmetry.

[0032] In figures 23 et 24 An arrangement of a plurality of pins 1010 and 1010b in an embodiment of an applicator device 4 according to the invention is shown. Here, the pins 1010 form a first longitudinal row, while the pins 1010b form a second longitudinal row adjacent to the first. The pins 1010 are oriented in the same direction, their plane of symmetry P being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X, and the pins 1010b are oriented at 90° to the pins 1010, their plane of symmetry P passing through the longitudinal axis X. Other arrangements are possible, based on those already described above, in relation to other pin embodiments.

[0033] In figures 27 et 28 A variant 1110 of the pin 1010 not according to the invention and a variant 1110b of the pin 1010b according to the invention are illustrated. These variants include a second secondary extension, 1011 and 1011b respectively, symmetrical to the first secondary extension described above.

[0034] In figure 29 , the variant embodiment 1110c not in accordance with the invention differs from the two previous ones, and in particular from the pin 1110, by the fact that the main extension 1111 is not frustoconical, but is curved.

[0035] In figure 30 The 1210 picot is a variant of the 1110 and 1110b picots where the secondary extensions 1011 and 1011b are at 90° to each other. figure 31 The 1310 pin is a variant of the 1210 pin where the secondary extensions 1011 and 1011b are installed on the 1015 bridge in a staggered height: thus each of the secondary extensions 1011, 1001b extends outward from an associated independent flexible 1015 bridge.

[0036] There figure 33 illustrates a version 1410, 1410b of the picot not conforming to the invention, comprising three secondary extensions 1011, 1011b. The figure 34 Figure 1510, 1510b illustrates a version of the spike according to the invention comprising four secondary extensions 1011, 1011b. The various secondary extensions may be uniformly or unevenly distributed around the main extension 11.

[0037] In figure 32 is shown another variant embodiment of the 1010 pin not in accordance with the invention. The pin 1610 of this variant comprises, from the anchoring end 14 to the free end 12, the proximal stage 1613, the bridge 1615, and the distal stages 1611, 1617. The distal stage comprises a main extension 1611 and a secondary extension 1617 extending from the bridge 1615 along and at a distance from the main extension 1611. In addition, the pin 1610 comprises a first lateral face 1612 extending over the entire height of the pin 1610, along the proximal stage 1613, the bridge 1615, and the main extension 1611, and bearing on a circle C. The circle C lies in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X, a point of intersection of the longitudinal axis X with the plane of the circle C, and on the circle C.Such a configuration of the circle C supporting one face of the pin is described in detail in document FR 2 937 514, to which reference may be made for further information. Furthermore, the secondary extension 1617 comprises a second lateral face 1618 oriented in the opposite direction to the first face 1612 and which rests on a circle D.

[0038] An applicator device 6 according to the invention is illustrated in figure 39 comprising an arrangement of a plurality of pins 1110 and 1510. The arrangement comprises longitudinal rows of pins 1510, each of these rows being surrounded on either side by adjacent longitudinal rows comprising pins 1110.

[0039] In figure 35 , is illustrated another variant of the embodiment of a 1710 pin for an applicator device according to the invention. The pin 1710 comprises, from the anchoring end 14, a proximal stage 1713, a bridge 1715, and a distal stage 1711, 1717 extending to the free end 12. The distal stage comprises a main extension 1717 extending to the right of the proximal stage 1713 via the bridge 1715. The main extension 1717 has an internal flat face 1717a located in the plane P of the pin 1710. The distal stage further comprises a secondary extension 1711 which extends along and away from the main extension 1717. The secondary extension 1711 has an internal flat face 1711a which is not concurrent with the plane P and extends opposite and away from it.

[0040] In figure 36 Another embodiment of a pin 1810 for an applicator device according to the invention is illustrated. The pin 1810 comprises, from the anchoring end 14, a proximal stage 1813, a bridge 1815, and a distal stage 1711, 1717 extending to the free end 12. The distal stage comprises a main extension with two branches 1717, mirror-image symmetrical to each other, extending from the proximal stage 1813 via the bridge 1815. The branches 1717 have an internal flat face 1717a located in the plane P of the pin 1810. The distal stage further comprises a secondary extension 1711 that extends along and away from the main extension. The secondary extension 1711 has a flat internal face 1711a which is not concomitant with the plane P and extends opposite and at a distance from the latter.

[0041] Extensions 1717 and / or 1711 extend vertically over the figures either in a straight line, or in a curved manner along a single curve or along several curves.

[0042] Up to this point, we have described applicator devices according to the invention primarily in the form of mascara brushes or similar items. Other shapes are needed for applications directed towards the epidermis (skin, lips).

[0043] With reference to figures 42 et 43 We will describe another embodiment of an applicator device 2020 comprising pins according to a possibility not in accordance with the invention. This applicator device 2020 comprises a hollow core 2000 having a tube 2001 having a longitudinal slot 2002. An external surface of the tube 2001 has an arrangement of pins 2010 which may have the structure of one of the pins described previously. Such a structure of the core 2000 makes it developable so as to become planar as illustrated in the figure 42b This allows such a core with complex studs to be molded in its substantially cylindrical tube form, allowing the demolding of said complex studs, such as those described previously or others, which is very difficult, if not impossible, to do directly in a flat and / or developed form of said core.

[0044] The applicator device 2020 further comprises a support 2021 having a receiving housing 2023 bordered on both sides by slides 2022. The core 2000, once developed, is introduced into the housing 2023 by sliding it along the slides 2022. Ultimately, the applicator device 2020 according to the invention forms a spatula for the application of a fluid or paste product to the epidermis.

[0045] With reference to the figure 44 We will describe a second embodiment of a developable hollow core 3000. In this variant, the core 3000 comprises a tube 3001 having a longitudinal slot 3002. An external surface of the tube 3001 has a set of pins 10 which may have the structure of one of the pins described previously. At one end, the core 3000 has an ogive 3003 of essentially frustoconical shape. At the end on which the ogive 3003 is placed, the tube 3001 has a beveled cut 3004. This cut allows the tube 3001 to develop without being hindered by the ogive 3003. Furthermore, the core 3000 has, as illustrated here, longitudinal orifices 3005 passing through a thickness of the tube 3001 and located between the longitudinal rows of studs 10. In an alternative embodiment, the core 3000 does not have longitudinal orifices.

[0046] With reference to the figure 45 The applicator device 3020 includes a support 3021 for receiving the sliding core 3000. The support includes a sword-shaped body 3023 with two longitudinal reservoirs 3022 open at the top for receiving the liquid or paste product to be applied. The body 3023 terminates in a guard 3024. As illustrated in the figure 45 The hollow, developable core 3000 is slid onto the body 3023 of the support 3021, the shape of the body 3023 being arranged so as to progressively develop the tube 3001 until the core 3000 comes into contact against the guard 3024, the ogive 3003 receiving a point from the body of the support 3021. Once in place, the longitudinal orifices 3005 allow the product stored in the tanks 3022 to reach the pins 10.

[0047] There figure 46 illustrates an early variant of the 3120 support in which the 3123 body is solid and does not have tanks.

[0048] There figure 47 illustrates a second variant of the support 3220 in which the body 3223 has a recess 3222 which acts as a product reservoir, once the core 3000 is placed on the support 3220.

[0049] There figure 48 This illustrates a third variant of the support 3320 in which the body 3323 has a series of bumps 3322 projecting from an upper surface that is covered by the core 3000. Once in place on the support 3320, the spaces between the bumps 3322 form product reservoirs. It should be noted that, in addition, these spaces leave gaps between the upper surface of the support 3320 and an internal surface of the core 3000. These gaps allow the core 3000 to flex during the application of the cosmetic product, making the application process even softer and more tactile (a feeling of comfort). The bumps then push the core 3000, which then "collapses" slightly opposite the gaps in the support 3320.

[0050] In figure 49 , is illustrated a variant embodiment 3420 of one of the previous supports in which the body 3423 has an implantation of pins 10 (which may have the structure of one of the pins described previously) on a face opposite to that covered by the core 3000 once the latter is in place.

[0051] In figures 50 à 52 , is illustrated a variant embodiment 3520 of one of the preceding supports, in particular support 3021. Support 3520 is similar to support 3021 except that it additionally includes a conduit 3025 passing coaxially through a handle 3026 of the guard 3024 so as to open into the two longitudinal reservoirs 3022 open on the top of the body 3023. During an application illustrated in the figure 52 , the cosmetic or care product P follows a path illustrated by the arrows FP by entering through the rear of the handle 3026 into the conduit 3025 then flowing into the reservoirs 3022 and finally exiting through the longitudinal orifices 3005 of the core 3000 placed on the support 3520.

[0052] With reference to figures 53 à 56 We will describe a variant embodiment 3620 of one of the preceding supports, in particular, but not limited to, support 3120. Support 3620 is similar to support 3120 except that it includes a conduit 3125 running longitudinally through support 3620 from one end of the handle 3026 of the guard 3024 to one end 3126 of the body 3123. In an example of use illustrated in the figure 55 or to the figure 56 The cosmetic or care product P follows a path illustrated by the arrows FP, entering through the back of the handle 3026 into the conduit 3125 and then flowing along the conduit 3125 until it exits through the end 3126, in the manner of a lead in a mechanical pencil.

[0053] The support 3620 is mounted here with a hollow core 3009 which is a variant embodiment of the hollow core 3000 previously described adapted for the support 3620 so as to leave the exit end 3126 of the conduit 3125 free. On the other hand, the support 3620 has a face 3624, generally opposite a face of the support 3620 on which the hollow core 3009 is mounted, which has a particular structure: a flocking, or an additional layer of a softer material, such as sponge, having alveoli, or a micro-structuring of said face 3624, or any layer of soft and micro-structured material having the same effect as an area at one end of the fingers which a user naturally uses.

[0054] In variant embodiments of an applicator device illustrated in figures 57 et 58According to a variant not conforming to the invention, the latter comprises a handle 3700 mounted on the grip 3026 of the support 3620 and includes means 3701, 3710 for dispensing the product P, illustrated by arrow FP. The dispensing means 3701 is a pusher 3701 on which a pushing action 3702 causes the product P to dispense. The dispensing means 3710 is a ring 3710 mounted for rotation and arranged so that a rotation 3712 of the ring 3710 causes the product P to dispense. The pusher 3701 or the ring 3710 act, for this purpose, on a product P dispensing system arranged within the handle 3700. This dispensing system is a pump or a mechanical pencil-type device depending on the consistency of the product P used.

[0055] It follows from the foregoing that such a spike structure, as described above, for an applicator device according to the invention, allows for a distal section that is sufficiently rigid to disentangle and guide the keratin fibers. The flexible connection formed by the proximal section and / or the bridge acts as a shock absorber, eliminating the pricking sensation when the free end of the spike comes into contact with the underlying skin. Furthermore, the deformation thus obtained during use at the base of the spike allows the product present at that point to move upwards towards the free end of the spike.

[0056] In short, the applicator device according to the invention makes it possible to improve the load of cosmetic or care product and its application on keratin fibers (while ensuring optimal separation of the latter) or the epidermis while providing a feeling of optimal comfort to its user.

[0057] Of course, it is possible to make many modifications to the invention without going out of its scope.

Claims

1. An applicator device (4) for applying a fluid or pasty product onto keratinous fibers or onto the skin, comprising an elongate core (2) extending along a longitudinal axis X and of longitudinal cylindrical form, a plurality of spikes (102, 105, 106, 410, 1010b, 1110b, 1210, 1310, 1410b, 1510b, 1710, 1810), distributed on said core, each spike extending from an anchoring end (14) in the core to a free end (12) and being made of a piece with said core, characterized in that each spike comprises from the anchoring end to the free end, a proximal stage (13, 1713, 1813), a bridge (15, 1715, 1815) and a distal stage (11, 11a, 11b, 17 ,18, 1011b, 1111, 1711, 1717), at least one out of the proximal stage and the bridge forming a flexible link, and in which the proximal section and the bridge extend in a plane (P) of symmetry defined by said proximal section and bridge, the longitudinal axis extending in said plane (P) of symmetry, The applicator device being characterized in that the distal stage (11, 311, 11a, 11b, 17, 511, 611, 1011b, 1711, 1717) has a main extension (11, 311, 11a, 1111, 1717) oriented so as to form an angle α with the plane (P) of symmetry.

2. The applicator device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the proximal stage forms the flexible link between the anchoring end and the bridge.

3. The applicator device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the bridge forms the flexible link between the proximal and distal stages.

4. The applicator device as claimed in one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the proximal stage (13) has a curved shape.

5. The applicator device as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that the spike comprises a flexible foot (16) extending between the bridge and the core and supporting the distal stage.

6. The applicator device as claimed in one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the proximal stage comprises a flexible arch comprising two feet, the bridge being situated in the middle of the arch.

7. The applicator device as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that two adjacent spikes each comprising a flexible arch, the two adjacent flexible arches comprise a foot common to one another.

8. The applicator device as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that the common foot extends at a distance from an outer surface of the arch.

9. The applicator device as claimed in one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the distal stage comprises a main extension (11, 11a, 1111, 1717) and at least one secondary extension (11b, 17, 1011b, 1711).

10. The applicator device as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that the secondary extension extends protruding from the main extension.

11. The applicator device as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that the secondary extension extends protruding from the bridge.

12. The applicator device as claimed in one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the distal stage comprises two to four secondary extensions.

13. The applicator device as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that each of the secondary extensions extends protruding from a flexible link-forming independent associated bridge.

14. The applicator device as claimed in one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the core is hollow.

15. The device as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that the core comprises a longitudinal slit parallel to the longitudinal axis X.

16. The applicator device as claimed in claim 14 or 15, characterized in that, the applicator device comprising a support (2021, 3021, 3120, 3220, 3320, 3420, 3520, 3620), the core can be developed so as to be received on the support.

17. The applicator device as claimed in claim 16, characterized in that the support (3520,3620) comprises a conduit (3025,3125) for bringing the product to an end (3126) of the support or through the hollow core (3000).

18. The applicator device as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that it further comprises means (3701,3710) for implementing a flow for the product P in the duct.

19. The applicator device as claimed in one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the spikes are distributed on the core in adjacent rows, the spikes of one and the same row being oriented in the same way and the spikes of an adjacent row being oriented differently.

20. The applicator device as claimed in claim 19, characterized in that the spikes of the adjacent row are oriented at 90° or at 180°.