Dispenser for cosmetic products

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a device and a product distribution system for selecting one of the products for distribution, as well as methods for using and recharging such a system.

[0002] More specifically, the invention relates to a device and a system for distributing customizable cosmetic products allowing the user to choose different products. STATE OF THE ART

[0003] A wide variety of product dispensers are available. For example, liquid soap dispensers, mascara dispensers, nail polish dispensers, and so on. However, these dispensers only allow for the dispensing of a single product. Therefore, if a user needs several different products, they must purchase as many dispensers as there are products required. Furthermore, these dispensers are single-use, resulting in a significant amount of waste.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need to provide an application device that allows the distribution of several types of products, which is portable and compact while offering satisfactory ergonomics to the user.

[0005] US 2016 / 135567 describes a distribution system for a plurality of products, including cosmetics. SUMMARY

[0006] To this end, the present invention relates to a device for distributing a plurality of products, in particular cosmetics, according to claim 1.

[0007] Indeed, the device according to the invention allows a user to choose a product from a plurality of products contained in a single device.

[0008] Furthermore, the device comprises a reduced number of elements necessary for product selection and distribution. The device according to the invention is therefore compact and easy to use.

[0009] According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, the body has a body axis, the distribution opening is included in a first end of the body and has a distribution axis substantially parallel to the body axis, each location has a location axis, said location axis being, in the distribution position, aligned with the distribution axis, and said location axis being offset from the distribution axis in the storage position.

[0010] According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, each location is positioned around a pivot axis parallel to the body axis, the location axis is parallel to the pivot axis and the selector includes a rotating ring allowing each location to be moved between the dispensing position and the storage position by rotating the product support around the pivot axis.

[0011] Positioning the locations around the pivot axis optimizes the compactness of the device and facilitates the movement of the locations by simple rotation around a single axis parallel to the body axis and therefore parallel to the distribution axis.

[0012] Each location is suitable for accommodating a packaging element containing the product.

[0013] This allows the product to be packaged in a user-friendly container. The user can easily insert or remove the container from the dispenser, thus selecting the products that can be dispensed. Furthermore, this results in a reusable device. Only the container needs to be replaced, reducing waste.

[0014] According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, each conditioning element comprises a conditioning wall, a conditioning axis, an open end substantially perpendicular to the conditioning axis and a conditioning cap cooperating with said conditioning element in order to reversibly close the open end of said conditioning element.

[0015] The packaging cap, by sealing the packaging element, prevents the product from escaping the element when the element is handled outside the device. The same applies when the packaging elements are inside the device: handling the device does not cause the product to spill inside thanks to the packaging cap.

[0016] According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, each packaging cap includes an application device configured to apply the product, a first end of the application device being attached to the packaging cap, and a second end configured to apply the product being placed in the packaging element when the packaging cap closes the open end of said packaging element.

[0017] Indeed, the applicator allows for the easy application of a liquid product, such as lipstick or mascara. The applicator collects the product when the packaging cap closes the open end of the packaging element and transports the collected product out of the device by removing the packaging cap.

[0018] The device further includes a body cap cooperating with the body to reversibly close the dispensing opening, the body cap and the conditioning cap being configured so that a withdrawal of the body cap from the dispensing opening simultaneously results in a withdrawal of the conditioning cap from the open end of the conditioning element in the dispensing position.

[0019] Thus, a single body cap allows the user to independently manipulate different application devices or access the inside of the chosen packaging element. The device's morphology and use are therefore similar to those a user is familiar with for a single-product device.

[0020] According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, the body cap comprises a first reversible fastening element and each packaging cap comprises a second reversible fastening element, the first fastening element being able to cooperate, when the location is in the dispensing position, with the second reversible fastening element so as to fix the packaging cap to the body cap.

[0021] The reversible fastening element allows the packaging cap to be attached to the body cap in such a way that the packaging cap can be removed, thus opening the packaging element, simply by removing the body cap. This reversibility allows, when the body cap closes the dispensing opening (and therefore the packaging cap closes the packaging element), the selection of another packaging element by moving the product support. The two previously attached caps can then separate, and the body cap can be attached to a different packaging cap.

[0022] According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, the first and second reversible fastening elements are respectively first and second magnetic contact surfaces, in particular transverse ones.

[0023] According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, the body cap comprises an extension extending along an extension axis and configured to be aligned with the dispensing opening when the body cap cooperates with the body, the extension carrying the first magnetic contact surface, and a retaining element configured to receive the conditioning cap and mounted on the extension sliding along the extension axis between a retracted position when the body cap is placed on the body, and a locking position when the body cap is moved away from the body, such that in the locking position, the retaining element receives the conditioning cap from the conditioning element accommodated in the location placed in the dispensing position, and in the retracted position,The retaining element must be moved away from the packaging cap of the packaging element in the dispensing position.

[0024] The retaining element secures the connection between the body cap and the packaging cap, preventing the application device from tipping due to shear forces applied during product application. This embodiment also allows for automatic positioning of the retaining element around the body cap and packaging cap when the body cap is removed. This automatic securing mechanism eliminates the need for user intervention, thus facilitating both the device's use and safety.

[0025] According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, the device further comprises a separator configured to apply a shear force on the conditioning cap when moving from the dispensing position to the storage position of the location housing the conditioning element.

[0026] The separator makes it easier to separate the body cap and the packaging cap when selecting another packaging element by moving the product support.

[0027] According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, the body includes a second open end and the device further includes a base capable of reversibly closing said second end, the product support being able to be dislodged from the body by the second open end.

[0028] The removable base makes it easy to change the packaging elements without being hindered by the various elements placed on the other end of the body in the product distribution (cap, dispensing opening, retaining element,...).

[0029] According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, each location comprises a bottom substantially perpendicular to the location axis in opposition to the distribution opening, the conditioning element is movable parallel to the location axis between a low position close to the bottom, a high position away from the bottom, and the device comprises a lifting element configured to strain the conditioning element towards the high position.

[0030] Raising the packaging element when it is in the dispensing position helps maintain the hygiene and cleanliness of the device. Indeed, reinserting the application device inside the packaging element requires greater precision, especially when the dispensing opening is narrow. Therefore, the user might be imprecise and disperse the product around the dispensing opening. Raising the packaging element facilitates reinserting the application device; an inaccurate placement would result in the liquid being dispersed only on the edge of the open end of the packaging element (which is also interchangeable) and not on the device itself.

[0031] According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, the device is a lipstick.

[0032] The plurality of products that can be inserted into the device therefore makes it possible to choose from several shades of lipstick using only one device.

[0033] Furthermore, the invention also relates to a distribution system for a plurality of products, in particular cosmetics, comprising the distribution device and at least two products received respectively in the locations of the product support.

[0034] Furthermore, the invention also relates to a method of using the dispensing system in which at least two products are placed in the slots of the device dispensing a plurality of products, the method comprising a step of selecting a cosmetic product by passing one of the slots into the dispensing position

[0035] Furthermore, the invention also relates to a method for recharging a distribution system for a plurality of products, particularly cosmetics, comprising the steps of: selection of at least one product by a user, for each product chosen, preparation of the product, receipt of the product by the user and placement of each product in one of the locations of the distribution device for a plurality of products.

[0036] The recharging process therefore allows for complete customization of the products inserted into the device in an environmentally friendly way thanks to the reduction of waste. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0037] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the description below, with reference to the accompanying drawings which illustrate non-limiting examples of embodiments. In the figures: Figure 1 is a representation of the body. Figure 2 is a three-dimensional representation of the device in which the body cap closes the distribution opening. Figure 3 is a three-dimensional representation of the device in use including a conditioning element. Figure 4 is a three-dimensional representation of the device comprising three packaging elements in a first embodiment in which the device includes a base allowing the removal of the product support from the body using a push button. Figure 5 is an exploded view of the product support. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the device in use including a conditioning element. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the device in which the body cap closes the dispensing opening. Figure 8 is a representation of a conditioning element according to a particular embodiment. Figure 9is a representation of the body plug including an extension suitable for receiving the retaining element. Figure 10 is a cross-section representing the effect of the separator. Figure 11 is a representation of the system recharging process. Figure 12 is a three-dimensional representation of the device according to a second embodiment comprising three packaging elements in the embodiment in which the device includes a base allowing the removal of the product support from the body using a thread. Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the device according to the second embodiment in use comprising a conditioning element. Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the device according to the second embodiment in which the body cap closes the distribution opening. Figure 15 is a representation of the locking ring. Figure 16is a representation of the recharging process of the system comprising the device according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION First method of implementation

[0038] THE figures 1 to 11 represent a device (100) for distributing a plurality of products according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0039] The products that can be dispensed may be in solid or liquid form. Preferably, the products are cosmetics. For example, and without limitation, the products may be foundation, mascara (in stick or liquid form), lipstick (in tube or liquid form), or nail polish. Different types of products may be included in the device (100). For example, the device (100) may allow the dispensing of liquid mascara, lipstick in tube form, and liquid lipstick. When the products are of the same type, for example, liquid lipsticks, the products may differ from one another in one or more characteristics, including color.

[0040] The device (100) comprises: a body (110) comprising a side wall (112) and a distribution opening (117); and a selector comprising a product holder (140) comprising at least two locations (144).

[0041] The components forming the overall structure of the distribution device (100) are preferably non-ferromagnetic. The components are also preferably watertight, dustproof, and airtight, and resistant to shock and scratches. The materials used may be bio-based, recycled, or recyclable. The body

[0042] The body (110) is represented at figures 1 to 3 The lateral wall (112) can have a substantially longitudinal shape and thus define a body axis (Z) represented at figures 1 to 3The side wall (112) of the body may, for example, be parallelepiped-shaped, ellipsoidal, cylindrical, or any other shape. For example, when the side wall (112) of the body is cylindrical, the body axis (Z) corresponds to the axis of revolution of the cylinder. Preferably, the body (110) is sized to allow the device (100) to fit in a user's hand. The side wall (112) may include an observation opening (119) allowing visual access to the interior of the body (110) as shown in the diagrams. figures 1 to 3 .

[0043] The lateral wall (112) defines two extremities (114, 116) of the body, corresponding to two surfaces delimited by edges of the lateral wall (112) opposite along the body axis. Thus, the volume defined by the lateral wall (112) and the two extremities (114, 116) of the body allows the interior of the body (110) to be separated from the exterior of the body (110).

[0044] In the figures, the distribution opening (117) is formed at a first end (114) of the body. For example, as shown in the figures 1 and 3 The first end (114) of the body may include a sealing wall (118) in which the distribution opening (117) is formed. The sealing wall (118) may advantageously be detachable from the body (110) to allow easy access to the interior of the body (110). For ease of description of the invention, the first end (114) comprising the distribution opening (117) may be defined as the upper end (the top) of the body (110). In contrast, the second end (116) not comprising the distribution opening (117) may be defined as the lower end (the bottom) of the body (110).

[0045] The distribution opening (117) has a distribution axis (D) substantially parallel to the body axis (Z) ( figures 1 and 3). The distribution axis (D) is preferably distinct from the body axis (Z) but contained within the body (110).

[0046] The device (100) may further include a base (120) capable of reversibly closing the second end (116) of the body. In the first embodiment, as shown in figures 4 , 6 , 7 And 11 , the base (120) can close the second end (116) with a clip system (122) comprising at least one push button (121) ( figure 4accessible from outside the body (110). The user can then push at least one push button (121) to detach the base (120) and then replace the base (120) on the second end (116) by applying pressure inwards towards the body (110). The inside of the body wall (110) may include at least one guide groove (123) adapted to cooperate with the clips (122) in order to lock the base (120) onto the second end (116) of the body (see figure 11C(described in more detail below). Advantageously, the guide groove (123) can be present along the entire circumference of the side wall (112) of the body. This allows the base (120) to rotate freely relative to the side wall (112) of the body. The reversible closure of the base (120) is advantageous because the product holder (140) can then be dislodged from the body (110) through the second open end (116). Indeed, the product holder (140) can be fixed to the base (120) such that removing the base (120) results in the removal of the product holder (140) as shown in the figure 4 . The body cap

[0047] The device (100) further includes a body plug (130) cooperating with the body (110) in order to reversibly close the distribution opening (117) as shown in particular in the figure 2 The body cap (130) can also cover the entire first end (114) of the body.

[0048] As depicted in the figure 9 The body plug (130) may include an extension (132) extending along an extension axis (132) and configured to be aligned with the distribution opening (117) when the plug interacts with the body (110). Furthermore, the body plug (130) may include a retaining element (134). For example, the retaining element (134) may be hollow and include an internal section corresponding to the external section of the extension (132).

[0049] Finally, the body cap (130) may include a first reversible fastening element (136a). This first reversible fastening element (136a) may, for example, be carried by the extension (132). The selector

[0050] As described above, the selector includes a product holder (140) comprising at least two slots (144). The product holder (140) is movably housed within the body (110). Thus, the body (110) must be large enough to accommodate the entire product holder (140). The product holder (140) is also removable from the body (110) in that it can be inserted into or removed from it.

[0051] In the embodiment shown, but not limited to it, the product support (140) has a support axis (corresponding to the pivot axis (P) shown in the figure 5 ) and comprises three locations (144) distributed around the support axis. Each location (144) may have a parallelepiped, cubic, ellipsoidal, cylindrical, spherical, or any other shape. Each location (144) may have a location axis (E) ( Figures 4 and 5). For example, when the location (144) has a general cylindrical shape (the location wall (144) being closed or not), the location axis (E) corresponds to the axis of revolution of the cylinder.

[0052] As depicted in the figure 5 The product support (140) can consist of three parts: an internal structure (141), an external structure (142), and a guide element (143). These three parts can be coaxially fitted together so that the internal structure (141) fits within the external structure (142), thus creating, for each location (144), a closed partition (144) delimiting the different locations (144). The guide element (143) can then be fitted onto the external structure (142). This guide element (143) has as many openings as there are locations (144). The openings thus form open ends (145) of the locations (144).

[0053] Each location (144) is suitable for holding a product. The product can, for example, be contained directly in the location (144). Preferably, as shown in the figure 4 Each location (144) is designed to accommodate a packaging element (150) containing a product. This advantageously allows the cosmetic product to be changed simply by changing the packaging element (150) without necessarily emptying and cleaning the corresponding location (144), as is the case when the location (144) directly contains the product. For example, each packaging element (150) can be inserted through the open end (145) of the corresponding location (144), the opening of the guide element allowing the packaging element (150) to be guided parallel to the axis of the location (144).

[0054] The selector is configured to move the product support (140) to move one of the slots (144) between a dispensing position in which said slot (144) is opposite the dispensing opening (117) and a storage position in which said slot (144) is away from the dispensing opening (117). In the dispensing position, the slot axis (E) can be aligned with the dispensing axis (D) ( figures 6 and 7 The location axis (E) is offset from the distribution axis (D) in the storage position. The selector therefore allows a product to be chosen for distribution from among the products that can be placed in the different locations (144).

[0055] The selector may include a rotating ring and each location (144) is positioned around a pivot axis (P) parallel to the body axis (Z). Preferably, the pivot axis (P) coincides with the body axis (Z) ( figure 7The positioning axis (E) is then parallel to the dispensing axis (D) and preferably parallel to the pivoting axis (P) so that, when the rotating ring is actuated, one of the positions (144) can be moved between the dispensing position and the storage position by rotating the product holder (140) around the pivoting axis (P) relative to the side wall (112) of the body. The rotating ring can rotate the product holder (140) in a first direction, in a second direction opposite to the first, or in both directions relative to the side wall (112) of the body. Since the body cap (130) and the dispensing opening (117) are fixed against rotation relative to the side wall (112) of the body, rotating the product holder (140) allows one of the positions (144) to be placed in its dispensing position. Preferably, the rotating ring is accessible from outside the body (110).For example, the rotating ring is superimposed on the side wall (112) of the body. In the first embodiment, the rotating ring is the base (120) of the body, and is free to rotate thanks to the clip system (122) and guide groove (123) explained above. The rotating ring can be operated by the user or can be operated automatically, mechanically, electronically, and / or magnetically. The lifting element

[0056] Each location (144) may include a base substantially perpendicular to the location axis (E) and opposite the dispensing opening (117) (on the lower side of the body). When a conditioning element (150) is placed in a location (144), this conditioning element (150) may be movable parallel to the location axis (E) between a lower position near the base and a higher position away from the base. Each location (144) then includes a lifting element (146) configured to move the conditioning element (150) to the higher position of the body (110). Thus, when said location (144) containing the conditioning element (150) is in the dispensing position, the open end (152) of the conditioning element (150) (and, where applicable, its conditioning cap (154)) is raised through the dispensing opening (117).In contrast, the conditioning element (150) is in the lower position when the location (144) is in its storage position. The return element (146) can, for example, be an elastic return element such as a compression spring (. figures 6 And 11A (described below) or a flexible elastomer. The lift element (146) can also be a pair of magnets, one positioned at the closed end of the conditioning element (150), the other positioned on the bottom of the slot (144). The magnets are then configured to generate a repulsive force. The lift element (146) can also be a magnet positioned at the closed end of the conditioning element (150) and a metallic surface positioned on the bottom of the slot (144), or vice versa. The magnet is then configured to generate a repulsive force with respect to the metallic surface. The conditioning element

[0057] The conditioning element (150) shown in the figure 8 is preferably placed in a movable manner in the location (144). It can preferably move along the location axis (E) but also, as explained above, be removed from or inserted into the location (144) and therefore be removed from or inserted into the device (100).

[0058] In the embodiment shown in the figure 8 The packaging element (150) is in the form of a tank or a cartridge. It comprises a packaging wall, an open end (152), and a packaging cap (154) cooperating with said packaging element (150) to reversibly close the open end (152) of said packaging element (150). This configuration of the packaging element (150) advantageously allows for the packaging of liquid products.

[0059] Each conditioning element (150) can also include a conditioning axis (C) represented at the figure 8 The open end (152) is then substantially perpendicular to the conditioning axis (C). When a conditioning element (150) is accommodated in a location (144), the conditioning axis (C) is preferentially aligned with the location axis (E) and the open end (152) is directed towards the top of the body (110) as shown for example in the figure 4 .

[0060] Each packaging cap (154) may include an application device (156) configured to apply the product. As shown in figures 3 , 6 And 8The application device (156) preferably has a longitudinal shape comprising two ends. One end of the application device (156) cooperates with the conditioning plug (154), and the second end is placed in the corresponding conditioning element (150) when the conditioning plug (154) closes the open end (152) of the conditioning element (150). The length of the application device (156) is therefore preferably configured to reach the bottom of the conditioning element (150) when the conditioning plug (154) closes the open end (152) of the conditioning element (150). Similarly, the width of the application device (156) is configured to fit through the open end (152) of the conditioning element (150), as shown in the figure. figure 8The application device (156) is, for example, a brush for applying mascara or a brush for applying liquid lipstick or nail polish.

[0061] In cases where the packaging cap (154) includes an application device (156), the corresponding packaging element (150) may also include a wringer (158) positioned at its open end (152). The wringer (158) is hollow and has a side wall (112) flaring upwards from a lower edge that has a minimum internal diameter substantially equal to or slightly less than the maximum external diameter of the application device (156). This allows, when the packaging cap (154) is removed, and thus the application device (156) is extracted from the packaging element (150), the excess liquid product located along the application device (156) or at its other end to be removed. The wringer (158) may advantageously include a flexible internal wall, such as one made of elastomer, to increase the efficiency of removing the excess product.

[0062] Finally, the conditioning element (150) may also include a protrusion extending radially along its wall. Each slot (144) then includes a neck configured to cooperate with the protrusion when the conditioning element (150) is inserted into the slot (144). This advantageously serves as a keying feature to ensure correct orientation between the conditioning element (150) and the body plug (130). The distribution position

[0063] As explained above, when one of the slots (144) holds a product, its dispensing position allows the product to be dispensed outside the body (110) via the dispensing opening (117). Therefore, the dispensing opening (117) must be large enough to allow the product to be dispensed. The product can be dispensed by removing the body cap (130), which is configured to allow the removal of the packaging cap (154), as shown in the diagram. figures 3 And 6For example, each packaging cap (154) includes a second reversible fastening element (136b) adapted to cooperate with the first reversible fastening element (136a) of the body cap (130) when the location (144) comprising the packaging element (150) corresponding to said packaging cap (154) is in its dispensing position so as to fix the packaging cap (154) to the body cap (130), the removal of the body cap (130) then simultaneously causing the removal of the packaging cap (154) via the dispensing opening (117). Advantageously, the upward movement of the packaging element (150) to its upper position allows the body cap (130) and the packaging cap (154) to come into contact when passing into the dispensing position so as to facilitate their cooperation.The first and second reversible fastening elements (136a, 136b) can be a magnet-metal or magnet-magnet pair. The fastening elements (136a, 136b) can also be configured to allow hook-and-loop fastening or coupling by suction cup, screw, clamp, or locking pin. Preferably, the reversible fastening elements have substantially flat surfaces, particularly transverse ones. If the reversible fastening elements (136a, 136b) are a magnet-metal or magnet-magnet pair, at least two pairs can be present, as shown in the diagrams. figures 4 , 7 , 8 and 9 This serves advantageously as a keying device and guarantees correct orientation between the body cap (130) and the packaging cap (154) at each fixing.

[0064] Furthermore, the retaining element (134) represented at the figure 9is configured to, when one of the locations (144) is in the dispensing position and includes a conditioning element (150) comprising an application device (156), maintain the application device (156) substantially parallel to the conditioning axis (C). The retaining element (134) is mounted on the extension (132) of the body cap (130) and can slide along the extension axis (132) between a retracted position when the body cap (130) is placed on the body (110) ( figure 7 ), and a locking position when the body plug (130) is moved away from the body (110) ( figure 8Furthermore, the retaining element (134) is configured to receive the conditioning cap (154). Thus, in the locked position, the retaining element (134) receives the conditioning cap (154) from the conditioning element (150) in the aforementioned location (144). This secures the connection between the body cap (130) and the conditioning cap (154). Indeed, the retaining element (134) in its locked position prevents shearing, which would cause the conditioning cap (154) and the body cap (130) to separate. In the retracted position, the retaining element (134) is moved away from the conditioning cap (154). To achieve this, the external diameter of the retaining element (134) can advantageously be larger than the size of the dispensing opening (117).This allows, when the application device (156) is replaced in the packaging element (150) by closing the dispensing opening (117) with the body cap (130), the retaining element (134) to be pressed against the sealing wall (118) so that it slides along the extension (132) into its retracted position. In this embodiment where the retaining element (134) is configured to slide along the extension (132), the passage of the retaining element (134) into the locked position is facilitated by the presence of an elastic return element between the bottom of the body cap (130) and one end of the retaining element (134) as shown in the figure. figure 9 . The separator

[0065] The device (100) may also further include a separator configured to apply a shear force to the conditioning cap (154) when the slot (144) housing the conditioning element (150) comprising said conditioning cap (154) moves from the dispensing position to the storage position. This facilitates the separation between the body cap (130) and said conditioning cap (154). For example, if the attachment between the body cap (130) and the conditioning cap (154) is magnetic, the separator is the sealing wall (118) or comprises a separating ring and a pusher. When the slot (144) and therefore the conditioning element (150) move, or when the separating ring rotates, the edge of the opening or the pusher abuts the conditioning cap (154), thus applying a force to it that is not parallel to the conditioning axis (C) ( Figure 10 ). The ratchet system

[0066] The dispensing device according to the first embodiment may include a ratchet system included in the product holder (140). The ratchet system emits a short sound indicating to the user the correct position of a slot (144) in its dispensing position. The ratchet system may include at least one ball included in the product holder (140) (shown in the figure 11and at least one recess included in the inner surface of the side wall (112) of the body. A portion of the at least one ball and the at least one recess are configured to cooperate when a slot (144) is in its dispensing position. The cooperation between the portion of the at least one ball and the at least one recess may emit, depending on the materials used, a sound indicating to the user the positioning of a slot (144) in its dispensing position. In addition, when the at least one ball and the at least one recess cooperate, the product holder (140) may be slightly blocked so that the slot (144) does not leave its dispensing position during product dispensing. The blockage is configured to allow the user to move the product holder (140) by applying minimal force to the selector. The usage process

[0067] The invention also relates to a method of using the dispensing system in which at least two products are placed in the slots (144) of the device (100) for dispensing a plurality of products. The products are, for example, placed in packaging elements which are positioned in the slots (144).

[0068] The process includes a step of selecting a cosmetic product by moving one of the slots (144) into its dispensing position. For example, this can occur when the user rotates the rotating ring to its dispensing position (optionally indicated by the ratchet system). As explained above, when the slot (144) is in the dispensing position, the packaging cap (154) is attached to the body cap (130).

[0069] The viewing opening (119) advantageously allows verification that the product in the dispensing location (144) is the selected product. For this purpose, the individual locations (144) or packaging elements may have distinguishing markings on their walls. For example, the color of each packaging element (150) corresponds to the color of the product contained within that packaging element (150). In another example, the name of the contained product may be printed on each packaging element (150) or on the wall of the location (144). Advantageously, the walls of the locations (144) and, where applicable, of the packaging elements, may be partially transparent. This allows verification of the quantity of product available through the viewing opening (119) when the location (144) is in the dispensing position.

[0070] The process may also include a step of removing the body cap (130). As explained above, this removal allows the product to be dispensed into the dispensing location (144). For example, removing the body cap (130) results in the removal of the packaging cap (154). Thus, the application device (156) allows the product to be conveyed from inside the packaging element (150) to the outside of the body (110).

[0071] The dispensed product can then be used by the user. For example, in the case of a lipstick, the user holds the body cap (130) between their fingers and can apply the liquid lipstick to their lips using the second end of the applicator (156). The retaining element (134) is advantageous in this case because the contact between the lips and the second end of the applicator (156) produces a force with a component that is not parallel to the extension axis (132). This component of the force can cause the body cap (130) and the packaging cap (154) to separate. Thus, the retaining element (134) prevents the applicator (156) from tipping over.

[0072] The process may also include a step of closing the dispensing opening (117) by replacing the body cap (130) on the body (110). This allows the user to transport the dispensing device (100) while preventing any unintended dispensing of the products. The reloading process

[0073] The invention also relates to a method of recharging a distribution system for a plurality of products, including cosmetics.

[0074] The first step in the refilling process is for the user to choose at least one product. The user can personalize their dispensing system by selecting a variety of products that they can then add or swap with the products already in their system. This allows for complete customization of the dispensing system. The selection can be made via a dedicated website or in a store.

[0075] Next, for each selected product, the product is prepared either remotely, for example in a cosmetics factory, or locally in a store. For example, the product is inserted into a packaging element (150) so that one packaging element (150) contains only one product.

[0076] The product is then received by the user and placed in one of the locations (144) of the product distribution device (100). For example, each packaging element (150) is placed in one of the locations (144) of the distribution device (100). figure 11BPreferably, the open end (152) of each packaging element (150) is directed towards the top of the body (110). The presence of a base (120) detachable from the body (110) at its second end (116) advantageously allows the user to easily place or replace the packaging elements. Indeed, the user only has to detach the base (120) to slide the product support (140) out of the body (110) ( figure 11B ) and insert the packaging elements into the slots (144) before replacing the product holder (140) in the body (110) and closing the second end (116) of the body with the base (120) ( figure 11C ). In the first embodiment represented in figures 6, 7 , 8 And 11The user presses at least one push button (121) to move the clips (122) away from the guide groove (123), then pulls the base (120) down from the body to detach it. To close the second end (116), the user inserts the product holder (140) into the body and pushes the base (120) up the body until the clips (122) engage in the guide groove (123).

[0077] The body cap (130) can then close the first end (114) of the body ( figure 11D ). Installation can also be done by the manufacturer or by the user himself. Second embodiment

[0078] In relation to figures 12 to 16 A distribution device according to a second embodiment is now described. The common numerical references with respect to the figures 1 to 11represent the same elements. Only the components that differ from those of the first embodiment are described in detail. For the other components, identical to those of the first embodiment, reference should be made to the description already provided.

[0079] This second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the base (120) closes the second end (116) of the body by means of a thread (123) present on the product holder (140). Since the base (120) is rotationally fixed to the product holder (140), the user can unscrew the base (120) to detach it from the body (110) and dislodge the product holder (140), then insert the product holder (140) into the body and screw the base (120) back on to close the second end (116). As in the first embodiment, the product holder includes at least two slots (144) comprising an open end (145) through which a packaging element (150) can be inserted.

[0080] The device according to the second embodiment may further include a locking ring (127) comprising at least one locking groove (124). The locking ring (127) is inserted into the base (120) while the product holder (140) is inserted into the locking ring (127) as shown in the exploded view. figure 15 The locking ring is fixed relative to the body (110), while the base (120), fixed to the product support (140), is free to rotate relative to the locking ring (127). At least one lug (126) may be included within the side wall (112) of the body ( figure 16D) so as to cooperate with at least one locking groove (124). Thus, when the product holder (140) is screwed onto the body (110), each lug (126) cooperates with one of the locking grooves (124) at the end of the screwing process so as to prevent the unintentional opening of the base (120). The at least one locking groove (124) may have a design forming a concave curve towards the top of the body. Thus, when the user wants to unlock the base, they can, for example, apply a force to the base upwards on the body and rotate the base to disengage each lug from the locking groove (124). Furthermore, in this example, the locking mechanism can also be secured by the force exerted on the product holder (140) downwards on the body (110) by means of the lifting elements (146) ( figure 16A ).

[0081] Finally, the locking ring (127) may include at least one magnetic attraction element (128b), and the lower portion of the product holder (140) may include at least one magnetic attraction element (128a) capable of cooperating with at least one magnetic attraction element (128b) of the locking ring (127) when at least one slot (144) is in its dispensing position. This advantageously prevents the product holder (140) from rotating unintentionally during product dispensing. Preferably, the locking ring (127) and the lower portion of the product holder (140) each include twice as many magnetic attraction elements (128b) as slots (144), as shown in the figure. figure 15(6 magnetic attraction elements (128a, 128b) for 3 locations (144)). This allows, when the magnetic attraction elements (128b) are correctly configured, for as many dispensing positions as there are locations (144), the transition from one dispensing position to the next being facilitated by the repulsive force exerted between two non-successive magnetic attraction elements of the locking ring (127) and the lower part of the product support (140). These magnetic attraction elements (128a, 128b) therefore play a role similar to the ratchet system described above.

[0082] During the application of the reloading method for the dispensing system according to the second embodiment, the user applies a force to the base (120) upwards and rotates the base (120) to disengage at least one lug (126) from the corresponding locking groove (124), then unscrews the product holder (140) to open the second end (116) and load or change the products ( figure 16B ).

[0083] To close the second end (116), the body cap (130) is mounted on the first end (114) of the body ( figure 16C ), the user screws the product support (140) into the body ( figure 16D ). At least one lug (126) automatically engages in at least one locking groove (124) at the end of the screwing process. The user then continues to aim at the base (120) while applying an upward force with their body to lock at least one lug (126).

Claims

1. A device (100) for dispensing a plurality of products, in particular cosmetic products, comprising: - a body (110) comprising a side wall (112) and a dispensing opening (117); - a selector comprising a product holder (140) comprising at least two compartments (144), each compartment (144) being capable of receiving a packaging element (150) containing a product, the product holder (140) being movably housed in the body (110), each packaging element (150) comprising a packaging wall, a packaging axis (C), an open end (152) substantially perpendicular to the packaging axis (C), and a packaging cap (154) cooperating with said packaging element (150) in order to reversibly close the open end (152) of said packaging element (150); - a body cap (130) cooperating with the body (110) in order to reversibly close the dispensing opening (117); wherein the selector is configured to move the product holder (140) so as to move each compartment (144) between a dispensing position in which said compartment (144) faces the dispensing opening (117) so as to allow dispensing of the product, and a storage position in which said compartment (144) is spaced apart from the dispensing opening (117), characterized in that the body cap (130) and the packaging cap (154) are configured such that removal of the body cap (130) relative to the dispensing opening (117) simultaneously causes removal of the packaging cap (154) relative to the open end (152) of the packaging element (150) in the dispensing position.

2. The device (100) for dispensing a plurality of products according to claim 1, wherein the body (110) has a body axis (Z), the dispensing opening (117) is comprised in a first end (114) of the body and has a dispensing axis (D) substantially parallel to the body axis (Z), each compartment (144) has a compartment axis (E), said compartment axis (E) being, in the dispensing position, aligned with the dispensing axis (D), and said compartment axis (E) being spaced apart from the dispensing axis (D) in the storage position.

3. The device (100) for dispensing a plurality of products according to claim 2, wherein each compartment (144) is positioned around a pivot axis (P) parallel to the body axis (Z), the compartment axis (E) is parallel to the pivot axis (P), and the selector comprises a rotating ring allowing each compartment (144) to be moved between the dispensing position and the storage position by rotation of the product holder (140) around the pivot axis (P).

4. The device (100) for dispensing a plurality of products according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each packaging cap (154) comprises an applicator (156) configured to apply the product, a first end of the applicator (156) being fixed to the packaging cap (154), and a second end configured to apply the product being placed in the packaging element (150) when the packaging cap (154) closes the open end (152) of said packaging element (150).

5. The device (100) for dispensing a plurality of products according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: - the body cap (130) comprises a first reversible fastening element (136a); and - each packaging cap (154) comprises a second reversible fastening element (136b), the first reversible fastening element (136a) being capable of cooperating, when the compartment (144) is in the dispensing position, with the second reversible fastening element (136b) so as to fasten the packaging cap (154) to the body cap (130).

6. The device (100) for dispensing a plurality of products according to claim 5, wherein the first and second reversible fastening elements (136a, 136b) are respectively first and second magnetic contact surfaces, in particular transverse.

7. The device (100) for dispensing a plurality of products according to claim 6, wherein the body cap (130) comprises: - an extension (132) extending along an extension axis (132) and configured to be aligned with the dispensing opening (117) when the body cap (130) cooperates with the body (110), the extension (132) carrying the first magnetic contact surface; and - a retaining element (134) configured to receive the packaging cap (154) and mounted on the extension (132) so as to slide along the extension axis (132) between a retracted position when the body cap (130) is placed on the body (110), and an attachment position when the body cap (130) is spaced apart from the body (110), such that in the attachment position, the retaining element (134) receives the packaging cap (154) of the packaging element (150) received in the compartment (144) placed in the dispensing position, and in the retracted position, the retaining element (134) is spaced apart from the packaging cap (154) of the packaging element (150) in the compartment (144) in the dispensing position.

8. The device (100) for dispensing a plurality of products according to any one of claims 5 to 7, further comprising a separator configured to apply a shear force to the packaging cap (154) during the transition from the dispensing position to the storage position of the compartment (144) receiving the packaging element (150).

9. The device (100) for dispensing a plurality of cosmetic products according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: - each compartment (144) comprises a bottom substantially perpendicular to the compartment axis (E) opposite the dispensing opening (117); - the packaging element (150) is movable parallel to the compartment axis (E) between a lower position near the bottom and an upper position spaced apart from the bottom; - the device (100) comprises a lifting element (146) configured to urge the packaging element (150) toward the upper position.

10. The device (100) for dispensing a plurality of cosmetic products according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the body (130) comprises a second open end (116) and the device (100) further comprises a base (120) capable of reversibly closing said second end (116), the product holder (140) being removable from the body (130) through the open second end (116).

11. The device (100) for dispensing a plurality of cosmetic products according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the device (100) is a lipstick.

12. A system for dispensing a plurality of products, in particular cosmetic products, comprising: - the device (100) for dispensing a plurality of products according to any one of claims 1 to 11; and - at least two products respectively received in the compartments (144) of the product holder (140).

13. A method for using the system for dispensing a plurality of products, in particular cosmetic products, according to claim 12, wherein at least two products are placed in the compartments (144) of the device (100) for dispensing a plurality of products, the method comprising a step of selecting a cosmetic product by moving one of the compartments (144) into the dispensing position.

14. A method for reloading a system for dispensing a plurality of products, in particular cosmetic products, comprising the steps of: - selecting at least one product by a user; - for each selected product, preparing the product; - receiving the product by the user and placing each product in one of the compartments (144) of the device (100) for dispensing a plurality of products according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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