Dispensing device for cosmetic products

Abstract

Dispensing device (10, 110, 210) for cosmetic product, comprising a plate (12, 212) defining at least one opening (14), and at least one tray (16, 116, 216, 316) disposed opposite the opening (14), the tray (16, 116, 216, 316) being mounted on an elastic structure (18) through the opening (14) so ​​that the plate (12) is held between the tray (16, 116, 216, 316) and the end of the elastic structure opposite the tray (18b). A method for dispensing a cosmetic product contained in a receptacle housing such a dispensing device (10, 110, 210), the method comprising applying pressure to at least one tray (16, 116, 216, 316) in the direction of the elastic structure (18), the movement of the tray (16, 116, 216, 316) causing deformation of the elastic structure (18) and passage of the product through the opening (14) in the opposite direction to the pressure applied. Figure for the abstract: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: Dispensing device for cosmetic product Technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a dispensing device, and more particularly to a dispensing device capable of dispensing a product, typically liquid, pasty or powdery. Such a packaging device may in particular find its application in the field of cosmetics. Prior art

[0002] Cosmetic products are generally packaged in tanks. These tanks either hold the product alone, or they have an internal structure which is impregnated with the product and which releases the product as it is used.

[0003] Traditionally, as such an internal structure, an absorbent support of the sponge or textile type is used, in the pores of which the product is stored. More recently, the Applicant has proposed, in its patent application FR 3 082 708 A1, a deformable absorbent support having meshes defined by edges.

[0004] Such an absorbent support, although significantly improving the state of the art in that it has finer and better controlled properties, nevertheless has a common drawback with conventional sponges and textiles, namely that it is difficult to precisely control the distribution of the product, in particular the quantity and homogeneity of the product distributed. There is therefore a need for a new type of dispensing device for cosmetic products. Statement of the invention

[0005] To this end, the present disclosure relates to a dispensing device for a cosmetic product, comprising a plate defining at least one opening, and at least one tray arranged opposite the opening, the tray being mounted on an elastic structure through the opening so that the plate is held between the tray and the end of the elastic structure opposite the tray.

[0006] The device thus defined may be intended to be received in a receptacle forming a reservoir for a cosmetic product, the dispensing device then making it possible to dispense product from the reservoir. The movement of the plate towards the elastic structure, which is permitted by the fact that the elastic structure is elastically deformable, results in a reduction in the volume of the reservoir defined between the receptacle on the one hand and the plate on the other hand, this reduction being possibly accentuated - and distributed - when the movement of the plate results in a deformation of the plate.

[0007] Unless otherwise stated, the dispensing device is described at rest.

[0008] Hereinafter, and unless otherwise indicated, by "a" or "1'" element (for example opening, tray, etc.), we mean "at least one" or "the at least one" or even "each" element. Conversely, the generic use of the plural can include the singular. In the case of a plurality of elements, these may be identical to each other, or differ from each other, possibly by subgroups: in the latter case, certain elements are identical within the same subgroup and differ from elements of another subgroup.

[0009] The plate may define one or more edges of the opening. In particular, the opening may be provided partially or entirely in the plate. The plate may be impermeable to the product, with the exception of said opening. The plate may be generally flat. The plate may be in one piece or formed of several plate portions optionally assembled together.

[0010] The tray may be mounted directly or indirectly (i.e., via at least one other part) on the elastic structure. To say that the tray is mounted on the elastic structure through the opening means that at least one of the elements connecting the tray and the elastic structure, possibly including the tray or the elastic structure themselves, passes through the opening. For example, the tray may be connected to the elastic structure by at least one beam passing through the opening. The element passing through the opening may be more, less, or as elastic as the elastic structure, in particular in a direction parallel to the axis of the opening.

[0011] The plate may extend substantially in the same general direction as the opening. For example, the plate may extend transversely to an axis of the opening. Furthermore, the plate may have, in projection parallel to the axis of the opening, an overlap with the plate; such an overlap then contributes to maintaining the plate.

[0012] The elastic structure may be any structure that is elastically deformable under the effect of pressure from a human user. The elastic structure may further have one or more internal hollows capable of receiving the cosmetic product. The elastic structure may be a sponge, a woven or non-woven textile, or a structure having meshes defined by edges. The elastic structure may be produced by additive manufacturing.

[0013] The elastic structure has, transversely to the plate, two ends: one end on the side of the plate, which is closest to the plate, and one end opposite the plate. The end on the side of the plate can be on the same side of the plate as the plate, or on the opposite side. On the other hand, the end opposite the plate is always on the opposite side of the plate from the plate, since the plate is maintained between the plate and the end of the elastic structure opposite the plate.

[0014] Apart from being maintained between the plate and the end of the elastic structure opposite the plate, the plate may be free to move relative to the plate, it being understood that when the plate and the plate are brought into contact with each other, one is capable of driving the other. Similarly, the plate may be free to move relative to the elastic structure, it being understood that when the elastic structure and the plate are brought into contact with each other, one is capable of driving the other.

[0015] Due to their relative assembly, the elastic structure, the plate and the tray together define a sinuous path, or even a chicane, for the distribution of product from the receptacle receiving the elastic structure, through the opening.

[0016] Thanks to the dispensing device, the product can be dispensed through the opening by deformation of the elastic structure. The plate, being opposite the opening, ensures the regulation of the quantity of product exiting through the opening, and the shearing of the product in the sinuous path formed at least between the plate and the plate that it holds, which homogenizes the product. This also results in better comfort of use.

[0017] In some embodiments, a length of the plate in a direction transverse to the axis of the opening is greater than a length of the opening in said direction. This allows both better holding of the plate and better shearing of the product. Optionally, the plate has dimensions such that it cannot pass through the opening.

[0018] In some embodiments, the tray has a polygonal shape transversely to an axis of the opening. Thus, when the dispensing device comprises several trays, these can be arranged in a paving pattern, which increases the precision of control of the quantity of product dispensed. However, it is clear that the tray can take any other shape transversely to an axis of the opening, in particular a non-polygonal shape.

[0019] In some embodiments, the surface of the tray on the plate side has at least one recess, such as a concavity or a groove. The product can flow in this recess even when the tray is pressed against the plate. This results in a more regular and better controlled distribution of the product.

[0020] In some embodiments, the surface of the tray on the side opposite the plate is convex, i.e., flat or strictly convex.

[0021] In some embodiments, the surface of the tray opposite the plate has a coating. The surface of the tray opposite the plate may, for example, be intended to come into contact with an applicator manipulated by the user. Under these conditions, the coating may promote the passage of the product from the tray to the applicator. Other coatings may be considered, for example for aesthetic purposes, chemical compatibility, etc. The coating may result from a surface treatment or a coating, and may cover not only the surface of the tray opposite the plate but also, optionally, other surfaces of the tray.

[0022] In some embodiments, the tray has a diameter of between 3 mm (millimeters) and 15 mm. The diameter of the tray may correspond to its largest dimension. Alternatively or in addition, the surface area of ​​a tray may be between 1 / 10 and 1 / 100 of the total surface area occupied by the plate, including openings. The surface area of ​​a tray may be measured in projection in the plane in which the tray mainly extends.

[0023] In some embodiments, the dispensing device comprises a plurality of said trays. For example, the device may comprise at least two trays, optionally at least three trays, optionally at least four trays, optionally at least five trays, optionally at least nine trays.

[0024] In some embodiments, the trays are spaced apart from each other. Thus, the product can easily circulate between the trays, which promotes uniform distribution by the distribution device, typically over the entire surface of the plate or over a relatively large portion of this surface (for example at least 50%).

[0025] In some embodiments, the trays are connected to each other by at least one connection. Thus, when pressure is exerted on a tray, one or more adjacent trays are driven by the connection. The pressure which tends to distribute the product is therefore better distributed, and the resulting distribution more homogeneous. In addition, the connection helps to maintain the relative positioning of the trays, thus limiting the risk of tearing the trays by a sudden movement of the applicator. The trays can all be connected to each other, or connected to each other in groups.

[0026] In some embodiments, the connection comprises a material bridge that is more flexible than the plates. In other words, the connection may comprise a strip of material that is more flexible, such as in material, thickness, or width, than the plates it connects. The connections may be the same as each other, or different from each other.

[0027] In certain embodiments, the upper ends of the trays belong to the same plane, optionally parallel to the plate. The dispensing device thus offers a flat surface for the recovery of product by an applicator manipulated by the user.

[0028] In some embodiments, the dispensing device further comprises at least one platform between the tray and the elastic structure, the platform being located on one side of the plate opposite the tray. In these embodiments, the plate is held between the tray and the platform, making the hold more precise. In addition, the platform distributes any tearing force exerted on the trays over the plate, making the dispensing device more resistant. In addition, the platform helps create a winding path for the product to be dispensed, which shears it and therefore homogenizes it even more.

[0029] In some embodiments, a length of the platform in a direction transverse to the axis of the opening is greater than a length of the opening in said direction. This allows both better holding of the plate and better shearing of the product. Optionally, the platform has dimensions such that it cannot pass through the opening.

[0030] In certain embodiments, the tray and the elastic structure are made in one piece. The tray and the elastic structure are therefore formed in a single piece. This results in greater robustness of the dispensing device. For example, the tray and the structure can be produced at least in part by additive manufacturing. Additive manufacturing also offers a great deal of flexibility in design to control the geometric parameters of the elastic structure and the trays, and therefore the product dispensing parameters: quantity, shear. Furthermore, additive manufacturing makes it possible to produce an elastic structure having a very low residual volume, which allows a very high compression rate and therefore almost complete use of the product stock.

[0031] However, the manufacturing of the distribution device, in particular the plate and the elastic structure, can be carried out by methods other than additive manufacturing, in particular conventional manufacturing methods known per se. In this case, the plate and the elastic structure can be provided in several parts in order to allow the holding of the plate described above. Alternatively or in addition, the plate itself can be in several parts which are mounted together around the plate and / or the elastic structure.

[0032] The plate can optionally be produced during the same operation as the tray and the elastic structure, in particular the same additive manufacturing operation. Thus, the plate can be made of the same material as the elastic structure and / or the tray.

[0033] Alternatively, the plate could be attached to the elastic structure, for example by mechanical assembly, gluing, welding, overmolding, etc. Thus, the elastic structure, the plate and the plate can come from different manufacturing operations and be mounted successively on top of each other, typically in this order.

[0034] In some embodiments, the plate forms a grid defining a plurality of said openings. The openings may be arranged in a network, in particular a fixed mesh network, for example a polygonal mesh. Alternatively, the openings may be arranged in strips. Other arrangements are also envisaged.

[0035] In certain embodiments, the plate is more flexible than the tray. Consequently, pressing on the tray which brings the latter into contact with the plate causes a deformation of the plate, therefore a more homogeneous pressure on the product reservoir, therefore a better distribution.

[0036] In some embodiments, the dispensing device further comprises a sealing element at the periphery of the plate. The sealing element may be configured to provide a seal to the product with the receptacle intended to receive the dispensing device. By these arrangements, the product is forced to pass rather through the opening, which is provided for this purpose. In addition, the sealing element makes it possible to overcome leakage problems although the receptacle and the dispensing device are two different members; this latter characteristic makes it possible in particular to fill the receptacle quickly, without being hindered by the dispensing device, and then to position the dispensing device in the receptacle.

[0037] In certain embodiments, the sealing element comprises at least one radially deformable segment, preferably a plurality of such segments arranged circumferentially around the plate, with overlap. The fact that the segment is deformable, in particular radially, makes it possible to accommodate the clearance between the dispensing device and the receptacle in which it is mounted. It is advantageous to accommodate this clearance by a deformable and non-fixed element, insofar as this clearance can change during operation of the dispensing device, vary in contact with the product, and vary from one dispensing device to another taking into account the inevitable manufacturing inaccuracies.

[0038] The segment may be intended to be compressed, for example radially, between the receptacle and the dispensing device, in particular the plate. The fact that several segments, arranged in the circumferential direction, overlap, has the consequence that one segment can be compressed between the receptacle and, at least in part, another segment, which improves the seal.

[0039] The present disclosure also relates to a method for dispensing a cosmetic product contained in a receptacle in which a dispensing device as described above is received, the method comprising exerting pressure on the at least one plate in the direction of the elastic structure, the movement of the plate causing a deformation of the elastic structure and a passage of the product through the opening in the opposite direction to the pressure exerted.

[0040] The dispensing device used in this method may have all or part of the ca- characteristics defined previously. Brief description of the drawings

[0041] Other characteristics and advantages of the subject of the present disclosure will emerge from the following description of embodiments, given as non-limiting examples, with reference to the appended figures.

[0042] [Fig-1] [Fig.l] illustrates, in perspective, a part of a distribution device according to one embodiment, side view.

[0043] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a perspective view of the dispensing device according to the embodiment of [Fig.l].

[0044] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] illustrates, in perspective, a part of a distribution device, in particular its sealing system, according to the embodiment of [Fig.l], seen from below.

[0045] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] represents a part of detail IV of [Fig.2].

[0046] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is a top view of a first variant of the dis tribute.

[0047] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is a top view of a second variant of the dispensing device.

[0048] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is a top view of a variant of a tray. Detailed description

[0049] A dispensing device 10 according to one embodiment is described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0050] As illustrated in [Fig.l], the distribution device 10 comprises a plate 12. The plate 12 may have a reduced dimension along a main direction X and extend mainly transversely to this direction. In this embodiment, the plate 12 is generally planar: for example, the variation in distance of the plate 12 relative to a mean plane, along the main direction X, may be less than one third, or even one fifth, one tenth or one twentieth of its largest dimension transversely to the main direction X.

[0051] A radial direction is a direction perpendicular to the main direction X and intersecting this direction. Similarly, an axial plane is a plane containing the main direction X and a radial plane is a plane perpendicular to this direction. A circumference is understood to be a circle belonging to a radial plane and whose center belongs to the main direction X. A tangential or circumferential direction is a direction tangent to a circumference; it is perpendicular to the main direction X but does not pass through this direction.

[0052] For the sake of clarity, it will be considered hereinafter that the plate 12 separates the space into two sides in the main direction X, which will be called respectively tively, without loss of generality, an upper side and a lower side, in accordance with the direction of illustration of figures 1 and 2.

[0053] The plate 12 defines at least one opening 14. In this case, the plate 12 forms a grid defining a plurality of such openings 14. The openings 14 are here arranged in rows and columns, the rows and columns being optionally perpendicular to each other. However, the openings 14 could be arranged according to a different mesh or in a non-mesh manner.

[0054] Each opening 14 here has an axis parallel to the main direction X. Thus, for the sake of brevity, the axis of the opening 14 and the main direction X will be confused hereinafter. According to variants, the axis of the opening may be inclined relative to the main direction X, for example forming an angle of at most 45°, or even 30°, or even 20°, or even 10° relative to this direction. Furthermore, the axis of the opening could vary from one opening to another.

[0055] The dispensing device 10 further comprises at least one tray 16. As illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, in this embodiment, the dispensing device 10 comprises a set of tray-opening pairs, each tray 16 being associated with an opening 14 within a pair. Thus, the dispensing device may comprise as many trays 16 as openings 14, and the arrangement of the trays 16 may correspond to the arrangement of the openings 14 transversely to the main direction X. As will be seen later, the characteristics of the tray-opening pairs may vary from one pair to another, be identical within a group of pairs and vary from one group to another, or even be identical for the entire dispensing device. Furthermore, according to variants, a pair could comprise a tray 16 associated with several openings 14 or several trays 16 associated with the same opening 14.

[0056] The plate 16 is arranged opposite the opening 14: here, in projection along the main direction X, the plate 16 and the opening 14 overlap at least in part. The plate 16 extends transversely to the main direction X. For example, a length L16 of the plate 16 in a direction transverse Y to the axis of the opening (the main direction X) is greater than a length L14 of the opening 14 in said transverse direction Y. In this case, the length of the plate 16 in any direction transverse to the axis of the opening X may be greater than the length of the opening 14 in this same transverse direction. Other arrangements are however envisaged, for example a plate 16 which may protrude from the opening 14, transversely to the main direction X, in at least certain directions (or even certain directions), optionally to the exclusion of other directions (or even certain directions).

[0057] As can be seen in Figures 1 and 2, the plate 16 may have a polygonal shape transversely to an axis of the opening 14. In this case, the plate 16 has an octahedral shape transversely to the main direction X, more precisely a generally square shape with beveled corners. Other shapes with rounded or beveled corners can be envisaged. The shape of the plate 16 transversely to the main direction X can be determined as a function of the shape of the opening 14 (here square, therefore of the same overall shape as the plate 16), the orientation of the opening 14 (here oriented in the same way as the plate 16 in a plane transverse to the main direction X), the dimensions of the opening 14, etc., in order to obtain the desired effect on the distribution of product, as will be described later.

[0058] [Fig.l] shows that the plate 16 may have a convex surface 16a on the side opposite the plate 12 (its upper side), and independently, at least one recess, such as a concavity (as illustrated) or a groove, on the surface 16b of the plate 16 on the side of the plate 12 (its lower side). In particular, the recess may extend to a lateral flank 16c of the plate 16, in order to facilitate the circulation of product from the underside of the plate 16 to at least one of its edges.

[0059] More generally, in this embodiment, the plate 16 is convex, its concavity being turned towards the plate 12.

[0060] Furthermore, at least the surface 16a of the tray opposite the plate 12 may have a coating. The coating may be a varnish, flocking, etc., for example for the purpose of coloring the tray 16 in order to improve the visual impression rendered by the dispensing of product. Other possible coatings, as an alternative or in addition, include for example an antibacterial coating, a coating improving the sliding of the product on the tray 16, etc. Furthermore, the coating may be applied not only to one or more trays 16, but also to other parts of the dispensing device 10, in particular the plate 12.

[0061] The dispensing device 10 also comprises an elastic structure 18. The elastic structure 18 can be configured to deform elastically under the action of pressure from a user in the main direction X. The elastic structure 18 has, in the main direction X, an end on the side of the tray (upper end) 18a and an end opposite the tray (lower end) 18b.

[0062] The elastic structure 18 here comprises at least one mesh 20 formed by edges 22. The edges 22, connected to each other by joints, define an essentially hollow volume capable of receiving a product. The edges 22 can be shaped to extend substantially in the same plane, in particular transverse to the main direction X, when the elastic structure 18 is compressed by pressure in the main direction X.

[0063] Such an elastic structure 18 is such that the stored product can dissociate into several phases, hence the need to homogenize it before distributing it.

[0064] The elastic structure 18 therefore forms an absorbent support which may have all or part of the properties described in the Applicant's patent application FR 3 082 708 A1. Other types of elastic structures may also be envisaged.

[0065] It is apparent from [Fig.l] that the edges 22 are all connected to each other directly or indirectly, whereby the dispensing device 10 comprises a single, one-piece elastic structure 18. However, according to a variant, the dispensing device 10 could comprise a plurality of elastic structures 18, separated from each other, each elastic structure 18 being associated with one or more plates 16, as described below.

[0066] Indeed, the plate 16 is mounted on the elastic structure 18 through the opening 14. By “mounted”, it is understood that the plate 16 can be made in one piece with the elastic structure 18, or that the plate 16 can be attached to the elastic structure 18, for example assembled, typically by snap-fastening.

[0067] In this case, a beam 24 connects the elastic structure 18 to the plate 16. The beam 24 passes through the opening 14. Here, the beam extends mainly along the axis of the opening 14. The beam 24 can have any desired shape depending on the dimensions of the opening 14, it being understood that the space remaining between the beam 24 and the edges of the opening 14 forms a passage section for dispensing the product. The dimensioning of this passage section can be carried out by a person skilled in the art. In this case, the beam 24 is cylindrical with a polygonal base, more particularly octagonal, but other shapes can be envisaged.

[0068] Alternatively, the plate 16 could be mounted directly on the elastic structure 18, in which case the plate 16 and / or the elastic structure 18 would extend at least partially through the opening 14.

[0069] Optionally, the distribution device 10 may comprise at least one platform 26 between the plate 16 and the elastic structure 18. In this case, the platform 26 is provided at the base of the beam 24, or at the junction of the beam 24 and the elastic structure 18.

[0070] Thus, the platform 26 can be located on one side of the plate 12 opposite the tray 16, that is to say here on the lower side of the plate 12, while the tray 16 is on the upper side of the plate 12. In a way, the platform 26 forms a “lower tray”, that is to say a component of the same type as the tray 16 but on the other side of the plate 12. Consequently, the platform 26 can have all or part of the properties presented with regard to the tray 16, whether the corresponding tray 16 itself has them or not.

[0071] One or more platforms 26 can in fact be associated with one or more trays, as well as for the tray-opening pairs defined previously.

[0072] In particular, just as the plate 16 cannot pass through the opening 14, in this embodiment, the platform 26 cannot pass through the opening 14; the plate 12 is therefore held between the plate 16 and the platform 26. Other holding modes can be envisaged. More generally, the platform 26 being optional, the plate 12 is held between the plate 16 and the end of the elastic structure 18 opposite the plate 16, namely the lower end 18b (or even, a fortiori, between the plate 16 and the upper end 18a if there are other components between them, such as the beam 24, to pass through the opening 14). In this case, in the absence of a platform 26, the plate 12 could rest on edges 22, for example.

[0073] In summary, in the present embodiment, a plate 16 is mounted at the upper end of a beam 24 which extends through an opening 14 of the plate 12. At its lower end, the beam 24 is provided with a platform 26, itself mounted on a mesh 20 of an elastic structure 18. The meshes 20 of the elastic structure 18 are connected to each other, but might not be.

[0074] In the example illustrated in [Fig.l], the platforms 26 have shapes which do not coincide with those of the plates 16, transversely to the main direction X. The dimensioning of the platforms 26 makes it possible to regulate the passage section.

[0075] [Fig. 2] illustrates the dispensing device 10, according to the present embodiment, as a whole. As indicated previously, the dispensing device 10 may be intended to be received in a receptacle 30 forming a reservoir for cosmetic product, the dispensing device 10 then making it possible to dispense product from the reservoir. The cosmetic product, or another type of product, may be a liquid, pasty or powdery product.

[0076] The cosmetic product may in particular be a liquid, semi-liquid or powder foundation, or any other cosmetic or care substance, such as perfume, makeup, etc. The cosmetic product may also be chosen from those which need to be rehomogenized such as a gloss, a self-tanner, a perfume incorporating a powder, mother-of-pearl or particles. The cosmetic product may also be chosen from care formulas, in particular so-called “scrub” formulas which include abrasive elements giving them an exfoliating effect, multi-phase care formulas, in particular of the “water in oil”, “oil in water” or “water in silicone” type, or multi-phase makeup remover formulas. The cosmetic product may also be chosen from formulas incorporating surfactants. The examples indicated above are not exhaustive and do not form a limiting list of products and uses.

[0077] As illustrated in [Fig.2], the receptacle 30 may have a receiving volume, within which the dispensing device 10 is received. The lower end 18b of the elastic structure may bear on the bottom of the receiving volume. Furthermore, a seal may be provided at the periphery of the distribution device 10, as will be detailed later.

[0078] Thus, the receptacle 30 and the dispensing device 10 together define a product reservoir, this reservoir being delimited by the walls of the receptacle 30 and by the plate 12. The product may be present in the hollows of the elastic structure 18.

[0079] To dispense the product contained in the reservoir, a user can, for example by means of a manual applicator of cotton, foam or other type, exert pressure on at least one plate 16 in the direction of the elastic structure 18 (for example downwards, in the main direction X). The elastic structure 18 deforms elastically to allow this movement. This deformation of the elastic structure 18 causes a narrowing of the reservoir and therefore applies pressure to the product, which is expelled so as to pass through the opening 14 in the opposite direction to the pressure exerted, that is to say from the lower side to the upper side. Such narrowing of the reservoir is accentuated when the plate 16 drives the plate 12 in its movement, especially if the plate 12 is more flexible than the plate 16.

[0080] The product thus expelled spreads from the upper side of the plate 12 and onto the tray 16, where it can be transferred onto the applicator used by the user. Then, the user can apply the product to his skin or any other part of his body, or even to an object, using a usual gesture.

[0081] The upper side of the distribution device 10 may have an overall geometry (i.e. not taking into account the particular geometries of the plates 16) which is flat, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, or else non-flat, for example curved, concave or convex.

[0082] In this case, the plate 12 is circular in shape transversely to the main direction X, however other shapes can be envisaged, preferably a shape corresponding to the opening of the receptacle 30.

[0083] Depending on the shape chosen for the plate 12, it may not be possible to provide an integer number of trays 16 without detracting from the overall aesthetics of the dispensing device 10. For this reason, the dispensing device 10 may comprise one or more pseudo-trays 32. The pseudo-trays 32 may be placed at the periphery of the dispensing device 10, transversely to the main direction X, or even elsewhere. More generally, the arrangement of the dispensing device 10 may comprise a succession of trays 16 and pseudo-trays 32 according to a predetermined pattern.

[0084] A pseudo-plate 32 may have the same geometry as a plate 16, possibly truncated, in which it resembles a plate 16 or a part of a plate 16. Nevertheless, the pseudo-plate 32 may be integral with the plate 12, or even made of the same material as the plate 12. For example, the pseudo-plate 32 may be assembled to the plate 12 by a pseudo-beam, a pseudo-beam being of a similar shape to the beam 24 but not passing through any opening. Thus, the pseudo-plate 32 may not be opposite any opening 14. The pseudo-plate 32 may not be mounted on the elastic structure 18, in the sense that it is, with the plate 12, free to move relative to the elastic structure 18 (within the limits of the movement of the plate 12).

[0085] A rim 34 may be provided at the periphery of the plate 12. The rim 34 may take the form of an excess thickness, for example on the upper or lower side of the plate 12. The pseudo-plates 32 may be integral, or even made of one material, with the rim 34. In this example, the rim 34 is circular. The rim 34 may extend, in the main direction, at least from the plate 12 to the plates 16.

[0086] Furthermore, the dispensing device 10 may comprise a sealing element at the periphery of the plate 12. In this embodiment, the sealing element comprises at least one radially deformable segment 36, namely a plurality of such segments 36 arranged circumferentially around the plate 12. In this case, each segment 36 is attached to the rim 34, so as to be positioned radially outside the rim 34. Being radially deformable, the segment 36 is intended to be compressed between the rim 34 (or more generally the plate 12) and the receptacle 30.

[0087] In this embodiment, a segment 36 comprises an elastic arm 38 and a seal portion 40. The elastic arm 38 connects the seal portion 40 to the rim 34. At rest, the seal portion 40 is held at a distance from the rim 34 by the elastic arm 38. When radial compression is exerted on the seal portion 40, the elastic arm 38 deforms inwards, possibly until it is housed in an optional recess provided on the radially outer surface of the rim 34. The seal portion 40 is thus brought radially inwards, if necessary until it bears on the rim 34 itself and / or on the elastic arm 38 of an adjacent segment 36. To do this, an elastic arm 38 may have one of its ends 38a attached to a joint portion 40, and the other of its ends 38b radially opposite another joint portion 40, for example an adjacent joint portion 40.Other examples of overlap, here circumferential, between segments are however possible.

[0088] As illustrated in [Fig. 3], the seal portion 40 may have a generally L-shaped section in an axial plane, the inside of the L facing the rim 34. The lateral portion of the L ensures good contact with the receptacle 30, while the lower portion of the L ensures that the product does not pass to the non-sealed side of the segment 36.

[0089] Furthermore, as shown in [Fig. 3], the seal portions 40 may be circumferentially spaced apart from each other at rest, in order to maintain space for moving closer to each other when they are moved radially.

[0090] Although having been described in connection with the rim 34, the above sealing element could be implemented without the rim 34, the elements being directly connected to the plate 12.

[0091] Furthermore, other sealing elements are envisaged, for example a flexible lip or a compressible element mounted in a groove, in particular a circumferential groove.

[0092] The dispensing device 10 can be manufactured by additive manufacturing, for example by selective powder sintering (known as SLS for “Selective Laser Sintering”), which makes it possible to directly produce the plate 12 held between the plate 16 and the end of the elastic structure opposite the plate 18b. The advantages of additive manufacturing for the elastic structure 18 itself are furthermore the obtaining of a high compressibility rate of the elastic structure 18, the mixture of open or closed meshes, of meshes with different characteristics, the presence of meshes nested within each other, etc., and therefore a very great freedom and precision of dimensioning depending on the product to be dispensed.Several techniques can be implemented, for example direct sintering of the powder using an energy beam (laser or electrons, for example), or sintering by projection of a glue and polymerization of this glue by exposure to an energy beam. Other applicable techniques include stereolithography, wire deposition, etc.

[0093] The materials used to make the dispensing device 10 include PA 11 or any other polyamide, TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane), EPU (Elastomer Polyurethane), EPX (epoxy), SIL (silicone urethane), CE (Cyanate Ester), PUMA (Urethane Methacrylate), PS (polystyrene), PAEK (polyarylethertones). Additive manufacturing can also be carried out from powder of one or more metals among aluminum, cobalt, chromium, nickel, steel, titanium, their alloys, etc.

[0094] Figures 5 to 7 show the dispensing device in other embodiments. In these figures, the elements corresponding or identical to those of the first embodiment will receive the same reference sign, to the nearest hundreds, and will not be described again.

[0095] It has been seen in Figures 1 and 2 that the trays 16 could be spaced apart from each other. The space between two adjacent trays 16 can be sized to allow the passage of the dispensed product. Optionally, the space between the trays 16 can follow a certain shape, such as a design or a logo, so as to print this same shape in mirror image, with the dispensed product, on the applicator handled by the user.

[0096] The embodiment of [Fig.5] illustrates a distribution device 110 in which the trays 116 are always spaced from each other, but connected to each other by at least one connection 140. The connection 140 may be made of the same material as the trays 116 which it connects, or else reported. The connection 140 prevents in particular that the passage of a manual applicator lifts a tray 116 from below and tears it off. In addition, the connection 140 distributes the pressure force exerted on a tray 116 to the neighboring trays.

[0097] In this embodiment, the links 140 are provided so as to secure the plates 116 in rows and columns, but only rows, only columns, possibly diagonals as an alternative or in addition, etc. could be provided.

[0098] Regardless of whether the platforms 116 have them or not, links can be provided to connect platforms together, according to the same principles.

[0099] [Fig.6] illustrates a distribution device 210 according to another variant, in which the trays 216 have a polygonal shape, not square but hexagonal. In order to respect an inter-tray spacing compatible with the distribution of the product considered, the paving of the trays 216 also follows a hexagonal arrangement, or even a staggered arrangement. The corresponding openings of the plate 212 can follow the same arrangement. The shape of the pseudo-trays 232 is adapted.

[0100] According to another variant, certain first plates may have a certain shape (for example circular, oval, polygonal or other) transversely to the axis of the opening X, and second plates or pseudo-plates, adjacent to each of the first plates, may have a complementary shape filling the space left free, transversely to the axis of the opening X, between said first plates. The first and second plates may optionally complement each other in the manner of a puzzle.

[0101] Depending on the ease with which the product is to be distributed, for example its viscosity, it may be advantageous, unlike the embodiments presented so far, to provide that the trays overlap each other. The trays may overlap in several patterns, for example a tiling (a tray overlaps its neighbor on one side and is overlapped by its neighbor on the other side), an alternation (for example a tray is either overlapping or overlapped, and overlapping and overlapped trays follow one another in a certain direction) or a combination of the two in one or more directions. If necessary, the trays may be extended, at at least some of their edges, by fins. The fins may ensure good overlap between the trays. Furthermore, some of these trays may be pseudo-trays.

[0102] [Fig.7] illustrates yet another variation of tray 316, tray 316 having perforations 342. The perforations 342, optional, can be provided with an individual cross-section (size and shape, typically circular, oval, square, rectangular, rectangular) or rectangular. tangular, triangular, etc.) and in a desired number and arrangement in order to calibrate the flow rate (quantity) of product to be dispensed when using the dispensing device. Perforations may also be provided, similarly, in the platforms. The perforations 342 may be, as in [Fig.7], arranged according to the contours of a geometric shape (here a polygon, more particularly a square, but other shapes are envisaged, for example letters or a logo) or not, in one or more rows, etc. The perforations 342 may be oblong and be arranged according to radii around a center, for example so as to represent a star with a number of branches chosen by a person skilled in the art.

[0103] In the examples given, the characteristics of the various elements (trays, openings, platforms, beams, connections, elastic structure, etc.) were identical for the entire dispensing device. However, as indicated above, these elements can be grouped together, and the characteristics can differ from one group to another. For example, it is possible to divide the dispensing device into two zones: in a first zone, said elements can be sized to dispense a relatively small quantity of product under a given pressure exerted by the user (precise application), while in a second zone, said elements can be sized to dispense a relatively large quantity of product under the same given pressure (generous application). The number and arrangement of the zones can be chosen by the person skilled in the art according to his needs.Where appropriate, the different areas can be identified by a change in shape, color, size, texture, etc. of the trays between the different areas.

[0104] Although the present description refers to specific exemplary embodiments, modifications may be made to these examples without departing from the general scope of the invention as defined by the claims. Furthermore, individual features of the various embodiments illustrated or mentioned may be combined in additional embodiments. Therefore, the description and drawings should be considered in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense.

Claims

Claims

1. Dispensing device (10, 110, 210) for cosmetic product, intended to be received in a receptacle (30) forming a reservoir for said cosmetic product, the dispensing device comprising an elastic structure (18) forming an absorbent support for the cosmetic product, a plate (12, 212) defining at least one opening (14), and at least one tray (16, 116, 216, 316) arranged opposite the opening (14), the tray (16, 116, 216, 316) being mounted on the elastic structure (18) through the opening (14) so ​​that the plate (12) is held between the tray (16, 116, 216, 316) and the end of the elastic structure opposite the tray (18b).

2. A dispensing device according to claim 1, wherein a length (L16) of the tray (16, 116, 216, 316) in a direction transverse to the axis of the opening (X) is greater than a length (L14) of the opening (14) in said direction (X).

3. A dispensing device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the tray (16, 116, 216, 316) has a polygonal shape transversely to an axis of the opening (X).

4. A dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the surface (16b) of the tray (16, 116, 216, 316) on the side of the plate (12) has at least one recess, such as a concavity or a groove.

5. Dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the surface (16a) of the tray (16, 116, 216, 316) on the side opposite the plate (12) is convex.

6. Dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least the surface (16a) of the tray (16, 116, 216, 316) opposite the plate (12) has a coating.

7. A dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a plurality of said trays (16, 116, 216, 316), preferably at least four trays, preferably at least five trays, preferably at least nine trays.

8. Dispensing device according to claim 7, the trays (16, 116, 216, 316) being spaced from each other and optionally connected to each other by at least one link (140).

9. A dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising at least one platform (26) between the tray (16, 116, 216, 316) and the elastic structure (18), the platform (26) being located on one side of the plate (12) opposite the tray (16, 116, 216, 316).

10. A dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the tray (16, 116, 216, 316) and the elastic structure (18) are integral.

11. A dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the plate (12) forms a grid defining a plurality of said openings (14).

12. A dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the plate (12) is more flexible than the tray (16, 116, 216, 316).

13. A dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising a sealing element at the periphery of the plate.

14. A dispensing device according to claim 13, wherein the sealing element comprises at least one radially deformable segment (36), preferably a plurality of such segments (36) arranged circumferentially around the plate, with overlap.

15. A method of dispensing a cosmetic product contained in a receptacle in which a dispensing device (10, 110, 210) is received according to any one of claims 1 to 14, the method comprising exerting pressure on the at least one plate (16, 116, 216, 316) in the direction of the elastic structure (18), the movement of the plate (16, 116, 216, 316) causing a deformation of the elastic structure (18) and a passage of the product through the opening (14) in the opposite direction to the pressure exerted.

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