Applicator for applying a cosmetic product to eyelashes or eyebrows

Abstract

Applicator for applying a cosmetic composition to eyelashes or eyebrows. Applicator (2) for applying a cosmetic composition (F) to eyelashes or eyebrows, comprising: - an application member (8) having a proximal end defining a rear face (15) and an opposite distal end, - a guard element (20) disposed at the proximal end of the application member (8) and having a front face (23) provided with at least one first relief (60) adapted to engage with a second relief (50) of corresponding shape provided on the rear face (15) of the application member. Figure for the abbreviation: Fig. 2

Description

Title of the invention: Applicator for applying a cosmetic composition to eyelashes or eyebrows technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to applicators for applying a cosmetic, makeup or skincare product to eyelashes and / or eyebrows, in particular mascara, and packaging and application devices comprising a container holding the product to be applied and the applicator. Previous technique

[0002] The container is conventionally equipped with a wringing element that wipes the applicator stem as it is extracted from the container. The behavior of the application element as it passes through the wringing element depends on numerous factors such as the shape and nature of the wringing element's lip, the shape of the junction between the stem and the application element, and the arrangement of the application elements on the application element.

[0003] A compromise must be found regarding the amount of product left on the applicator. Excessive squeezing of the applicator results in insufficient product loading and requires the user to frequently dip it back into the container. Insufficient squeezing leaves an excess of product that is difficult to manage and can lead to clumps of product on poorly separated eyelashes.

[0004] An applicator comprising a guard element disposed at the proximal end of the core is known from application WO2017 / 102294Al. Such an element allows the opening of the wringing member to be modified during the extraction of the applicator, resulting in less wringing of the distal part of the applicator.

[0005] There is a need to further improve applicators, particularly to enhance their performance, especially in terms of ergonomics, and / or facilitate their manufacture and, where appropriate, enable the achievement of specific makeup effects. Description of the invention

[0006] The invention aims to meet this need and achieves this through an applicator for applying a cosmetic composition to the eyelashes or eyebrows, comprising: - an application member having a proximal end defining a rear face and an opposite distal end, and - a guard element disposed at the proximal end of the application member and having a front face provided with at least one first relief capable of engaging in a second relief of corresponding shape provided on the rear face of the application device.

[0007] The applicator preferably comprises a rod supporting the application member at one end.

[0008] One of the first and second reliefs may be a raised relief and the other relief a recessed relief and, preferably, the first relief is a raised relief and the second relief is a recessed relief.

[0009] The presence of the guard element and its mechanical connection by cooperation of forms with the application element presents several advantages.

[0010] First, this element allows the opening of the wringing organ to be modified during the extraction of the applicator, thus providing less wringing of the distal part of the applicator.

[0011] The guard element can be fixed relative to the applicator rod.

[0012] Depending on the shape given to the complementary reliefs, it is possible to confer more or less freedom of movement to the application member relative to the guard element.

[0013] The cooperation between the guard element and the application member can impose a predefined orientation of the application member with respect to the guard element, and indirectly, with respect to the rod of the applicator.

[0014] The complementary reliefs can also be shaped to allow the application member to pivot relative to the guard element, particularly around a geometric axis of rotation perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the application member. The first and second reliefs can thus be arranged to form a ball joint. This freedom of pivoting may only occur during manufacturing, the applicator subsequently retaining the shape given to it during manufacturing, due, for example, to the clamping force between the application member and the guard element. Alternatively, the applicator remains conformable by the user. Soul

[0015] The application member comprises a core extending along a longitudinal axis.

[0016] In embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the core is straight, and can be confused with the longitudinal axis of the rod supporting the application member.

[0017] As mentioned above, depending on the shape given to the reliefs of the guard element and the application member, the application member can be positioned with a predefined orientation relative to the rod of the applicator.

[0018] Alternatively, the longitudinal axis of the core forms a non-zero angle with the longitudinal axis of the rod. This angle can be between 1° and 30°, for example, and in particular close to 10°.

[0019] In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the core is non-rectilinear.

[0020] By "non-rectilinear", it is understood that the soul exhibits a change of direction between its proximal end and its distal end.

[0021] The longitudinal axis of the core can be bent. The core has, for example, a straight proximal portion, and has at least one bend formed between this proximal portion and the distal end of the core.

[0022] The longitudinal axis of the web may be curved. The longitudinal axis may have one or more curves. The curvature of the web may be constant or not along the application member.

[0023] The fact that the curvature is not constant over the length of the application member means that the radius of curvature is not the same at least at two different points along the application member.

[0024] The core can thus have a greater curvature on the side of its distal end than on the side of the stem for example, or have a straight or substantially straight portion and a curved portion.

[0025] The fact that the longitudinal axis of the core has one or more curvatures makes it possible to obtain an inhomogeneous composition loading of the application elements thanks to the fact that at least some parts of the application member are offset from the axis of the rod and therefore from the axis of the wringer through which the application member passes when it is extracted from the container.

[0026] This allows the user to have a reservoir of product on the application device, enabling them to locally load the eyelashes and / or eyebrows with an additional amount of the product. It also allows the user to have more vigorously wrung-out sections on the application device, which are effective for separating eyelashes, particularly the small eyelashes located at the outer corners of the eyelid.

[0027] The longitudinal axis of the soul may or may not be contained in a plane.

[0028] The longitudinal axis can be curved around at least one axis of curvature.

[0029] The longitudinal axis of the core can be curved around at least two axes of curvature.

[0030] These axes of curvature may be coplanar. These axes of curvature may be parallel or intersecting.

[0031] The axes of curvature may also be non-coplanar. The axes of curvature may or may not be intersecting.

[0032] The free end of the core, opposite the rod, can be eccentric with respect to the axis of the rod.

[0033] If desired, the application member can be made such that the end of the core is eccentric with respect to the axis of the rod, and that when the application member passes through the wringer, it deforms elastically upon passing through the wringer and, once it has passed through the wringer, returns to its initial configuration by performing a movement that can have the effect of shearing any droplet of The product is present at the end of the brush. This reduces the risk of a drop of product being present at the free end of the applicator, which could be problematic during application.

[0034] The core can be formed of one or more metallic strands, preferably two strands, which can belong to a U-shaped pin whose arms are inserted at their free end into at least one corresponding housing of the stem.

[0035] The core can be twisted, in particular made with two strands which are twisted together. Guard element

[0036] The guard element is preferably attached to the stem, but alternatively can be made by molding with it.

[0037] When the guard element is attached, it is preferably fixed relative to the rod. The guard element is, for example, axially supported against the adjacent end of the rod and held in this position by the metal core of the applying member, which passes through the guard element.

[0038] The guard element may have one or two openings for the passage of the core or its strands. The strands may pass through the guard element in a twisted or untwisted state.

[0039] By "front face" is meant the face of the guard element directed towards the distal end of the application member, that is to say towards the end opposite to the rod.

[0040] The guard element may include a peripheral part surrounding a central part, the central part preferably having on its face the first relief mentioned above.

[0041] The peripheral part may be contoured, in front view, of a generally circular shape.

[0042] The guard element may have an external shape having axial and / or revolution symmetry.

[0043] The peripheral part can be of a generally flattened shape, with for example a radially external cylindrical surface of revolution.

[0044] The front face of the guard element may have an annular surface at the peripheral part which, in axial section, has a slope of a non-zero angle with respect to a plane perpendicular to a central axis of the element. Said face may be slightly conical around the central part.

[0045] The peripheral part can have a thickness, preferably constant, of between 0.5 mm and 20 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 10 mm, and in particular between 2 mm and 5 mm.

[0046] The guard element may have a smooth radially external surface or one provided with reliefs.

[0047] The guard element can play a decorative role thanks to a radially ex exterior bearing a decorative pattern, for example printed or engraved, and / or of a particular appearance, for example reflective, especially gold or silver.

[0048] The radially outer surface of the guard element, which is visible, can be metallized.

[0049] The guard element may be made of plastic, metallized or not, metal, ceramic, or other materials. The guard element may be made of the same plastic material as the stem or application member, or a plastic material from the same chemical family, capable of being recycled together.

[0050] The guard element may or may not be the same color as the rod and / or the application member.

[0051] The outside diameter of the guard element may be greater than that of the adjacent part of the rod, for example by at least 10%, better by at least 20%.

[0052] The outer diameter of the guard element may be less than or equal to the largest diameter of the application member.

[0053] By "diameter" is meant that of the smallest circle in which the contour is inscribed. For example, in the case of a square section, the diameter is that of the circle circumscribed at the vertices of the square.

[0054] The rod may be in contact with the guard element without engaging with it; alternatively, the rod fits into the guard element, the latter having a recess on its rear face to receive the rod, the rod having, for example, a conical distal end; alternatively, the guard element fits into the rod, the guard element being configured to partially engage in a recess in the rod.

[0055] The guard element can be monolithic in a single material or be multi-material, and for example formed by the assembly of the central part and the peripheral part.

[0056] The guard element may have a chamfer on the side of the adjacent end of the rod. This prevents the presence of a shoulder formed between the rod and the outermost radial surface of the guard element, which could catch the wringing member.

[0057] Relief

[0058] The first relief of the guard element can occupy at least 10% of the corresponding face, better at least 20%, even better at least 30%, for example about 50% of the corresponding face.

[0059] The first relief is preferably a projecting relief, extending towards the application member.

[0060] The projecting relief advantageously comprises at least one outwardly convex portion, preferably rounded, in particular with a symmetrically shaped envelope of re- evolution around the axis of the element.

[0061] Thus this relief can present, in side view, a profile in the shape of an arc of a circle or an ellipse, as well as in longitudinal section.

[0062] Preferably, the longitudinal section of the relief has a constant radius of curvature. This radius of curvature can be between 0.8 mm and 1.5 mm, for example, approximately 1.2 mm. Alternatively, this radius of curvature is variable, notably larger at the apex of the corresponding face.

[0063] The outwardly convex rounded portion may have an external surface in the shape of a spherical, ellipsoidal, or parabolic cap, preferably in the shape of a spherical cap. The outwardly convex portion can thus have a general dome shape.

[0064] The apex of the outwardly convex area can be located in a median plane of the guard element.

[0065] The projecting relief may be discontinuous. The projecting relief may comprise at least two outwardly convex portions, in particular each of rounded shape, with a gap between them.

[0066] The protruding relief may, for example, comprise a plurality of sectors, these sectors being, for example, inscribed within a dome-shaped envelope surface, in particular spherical, ellipsoidal, or parabolic. Providing sectors can confer greater axial deformability to the guard element, as the sectors can, for example, deform by flexing and moving closer together when the application member is axially clamped against the guard element.

[0067] When the relief comprises a plurality of sectors, these can each have the shape of a portion of a dome or even the shape of an orange segment.

[0068] The relief may include one or more openings for the passage of the core of the application member, in particular having only two openings, preferably with axes parallel to each other and to the central axis of the guard element, for example arranged symmetrically to each other with respect to the central axis of the guard element.

[0069] The fact of preserving the openings at the level of the relief when it is protruding, in the case of a twisted core, makes it possible to limit the shear effects that these openings are likely to undergo during the twisting of the core. Application unit

[0070] By "rear face", we mean the face of the application member oriented towards the rod.

[0071] The second relief, namely that of the application member, preferably has a form complementary to that of the first relief of the guard element.

[0072] Preferably, the relief of the application member is recessed.

[0073] The recessed relief may have at least one rounded portion concave towards the outside.

[0074] Preferably, the outwardly concave portion is rounded. The outwardly concave portion may thus have a longitudinal section in the shape of a portion of a circle or an ellipse.

[0075] The contour of the longitudinal section of the housing may have a constant or variable radius of curvature, in particular larger at the top of the corresponding face.

[0076] The apex of the outwardly concave portion can be located in a median plane of the core.

[0077] The recessed relief, in particular the portion convex outwards, can occupy at least 10% of the rear face of the application member, better at least 20%, even better at least 30%, for example about 50% of the rear face of the application member. Ball joint

[0078] The outwardly convex, rounded portion of the guard element may have a shape complementary to that of the outwardly concave, rounded portion of the rear face of the application member. Preferably, the convex and concave rounded portions have a substantially identical radius of curvature.

[0079] Preferably, the convex rounded portion of the guard element and the concave rounded portion of the application member form a ball joint.

[0080] The ball joint can allow rotation about two axes of rotation perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the web. In some embodiments, before web assembly and / or web twisting, the two elements of the ball joint can allow rotation about the longitudinal axis of the assembly.

[0081] The presence of such a ball joint provides a large number of possibilities for shaping the application member, particularly in manufacturing, which makes it easier to obtain an application member adapted to the makeup one seeks to obtain.

[0082] Preferably, the ball joint allows an angular deflection of between 0.5° and 30° around at least one of its axes of rotation, in particular an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the web.

[0083] In embodiments, the application member comprises application elements, preferably made by molding of material, carried by the core and arranged in at least one longitudinal row.

[0084] In embodiments, the application member comprises a plurality of individual elements attached to the core, each individual element comprising a core engaged on the core and at least one application element carried by the core.

[0085] The core of the proximal individual element may have a relief on its rear face of complementary shape to that of the relief of the guard element, constituting the second aforementioned relief of the application device.

[0086] In some embodiments, the core of each individual element has, on at least one face, a projecting relief adapted to engage in a correspondingly shaped recess provided on the face opposite the core of the adjacent individual element. Individual elements

[0087] The applicator may comprise a number of individual elements between 2 and 50, preferably between 10 and 40.

[0088] Preferably, the core of at least one individual element, preferably of each individual element, has on one of its faces the protruding relief, and on the other, opposite face, the correspondingly shaped housing.

[0089] The face with the raised relief may correspond to the front face of the individual element. By "front face of an individual element", we mean the face of the individual element directed towards the distal end of the application member, that is to say towards the end opposite to the stem.

[0090] The face presenting the housing may correspond to the rear face of the individual element.

[0091] By "rear face of an individual element", we mean the face of the individual element oriented towards the proximal end of the application organ, i.e. towards the stem.

[0092] The core of each individual element may comprise a peripheral portion surrounding a central portion, the central portion preferably having the raised relief on one of its faces. Preferably, the central portion has the aforementioned raised relief on one of its faces and the correspondingly shaped housing on the opposite face.

[0093] The peripheral part may be contoured, in front view, of general circular shape.

[0094] The peripheral part can be flat, in particular in the form of a flattened ring.

[0095] Alternatively, the peripheral part may be contoured, in front view, of general polygonal shape, and for example hexagonal.

[0096] The face of the core exhibiting the protruding relief may include an annular surface at the peripheral part which has a slope in cross-section at a non-zero angle with respect to a plane perpendicular to a central axis of the element. Said face may be slightly conical around the central part.

[0097] The peripheral part can have a thickness, preferably constant, of between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 3 mm, for example of the order of about 1.2 mm. Projecting relief of the individual element

[0098] The projecting relief of the individual element may include one or more openings for the passage of the core, in particular having only two openings, preferably with axes parallel to each other and to the central axis of the element, for example arranged symmetrically with respect to the central axis of the element. Providing openings in the projecting relief, in the case of a twisted core, limits the shearing effects that these openings are likely to undergo during the twisting of the core.

[0099] The protruding relief can occupy at least 10% of the corresponding face, better at least 20%, even better at least 30%, for example in the order of about 50%.

[0100] The projecting relief may include at least one portion convex outwards, preferably rounded, in particular an envelope of symmetrical shape of revolution around the axis of the element.

[0101] Thus the relief can present, in side view, a profile in the shape of an arc of a circle or an ellipse, as well as in longitudinal section.

[0102] Preferably, the longitudinal section of the relief has a constant radius of curvature. This radius of curvature may be between 0.8 mm and 1.5 mm, for example, approximately 1.2 mm. Alternatively, this radius of curvature is variable, notably larger at the apex of the corresponding face.

[0103] The outwardly convex rounded portion may have an external surface in the shape of a spherical, ellipsoidal, or parabolic cap, preferably in the shape of a spherical cap. The outwardly convex portion may thus have a general dome shape.

[0104] The apex of the outwardly convex area can be located in a median plane of the core.

[0105] The projecting relief may be solid. The projecting relief may thus have no discontinuity in material other than any openings necessary for the passage of the core.

[0106] The projecting relief may also be discontinuous. The projecting relief may include at least two outwardly convex portions, in particular each of rounded shape, with a gap between them.

[0107] The projecting relief may, for example, comprise a plurality of sectors, these sectors being, for example, inscribed within a dome-shaped envelope surface, in particular spherical, ellipsoidal, or parabolic. The inclusion of sectors may confer greater axial deformability to the individual element, as the sectors may, for example, deform by flexing and moving closer together when the individual elements are axially pressed against one another.

[0108] When the relief comprises a plurality of sectors, these can each have the shape of a portion of a dome or even the shape of an orange segment. The accommodation

[0109] The housing preferably has a shape complementary to that of the projecting relief.

[0110] The housing may have at least one rounded portion concave outwards.

[0111] Preferably, the portion concave outwards is rounded. The portion concave outwards can thus present a longitudinal section in the shape of a portion of a circle or ellipse.

[0112] The contour of the longitudinal section of the housing may have a constant or variable radius of curvature, in particular larger at the top of the corresponding face.

[0113] The apex of the outwardly concave portion can be located in a median plane of the core.

[0114] The housing, in particular the outwardly convex portion, can occupy at least 10% of the corresponding core face, better at least 20%, even better at least 30%, for example about 50% of the corresponding core face. Ball joint

[0115] The outwardly convex, rounded portion of the individual element may have a shape complementary to that of the outwardly convex, rounded portion of the adjacent individual element. Preferably, the convex and concave rounded portions have a substantially identical radius of curvature.

[0116] Preferably, the convex rounded portion and the concave rounded portion of two successive individual elements form a ball joint.

[0117] By "ball joint" between two successive individual elements, it is understood that the only permitted degrees of kinematic freedom between the two individual elements are rotations of one of the elements relative to the other element about at least one axis of rotation, preferably about two orthogonal axes of rotation. In particular, the ball joint may allow rotation about two axes of rotation perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the web. Before web assembly and / or web twisting, the two elements of the ball joint may allow rotation about the longitudinal axis of the assembly.

[0118] The presence of such a ball joint between the successive individual elements gives a large number of possibilities for shaping the application member, particularly in manufacturing, which makes it easier to obtain an application member adapted to the makeup one seeks to obtain.

[0119] Preferably, the ball joint allows an angular deflection of between 0.5° and 5° around at least one of its axes of rotation, in particular an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the web. Application elements

[0120] Each individual element preferably comprises a plurality of application elements extending radially from the periphery of the core.

[0121] The application elements are preferably distributed over substantially the entire perimeter of the core, in particular according to a regular angular distribution.

[0122] The application elements may have a circular or polygonal cross-section, among other possibilities.

[0123] Preferably, the application elements are bristles. For example, they have a cross-section that decreases towards their free end. This allows for good separation of the eyelashes.

[0124] Each individual element may comprise a number of application elements between 4 and 24.

[0125] Preferably, the core and the application elements of an individual element are made in one piece by molding of thermoplastic material, in particular in the same material.

[0126] The applicator may comprise individual elements of different kinds, for example made of different materials, in particular of different hardnesses.

[0127] The applicator may include individual elements of different geometries, in particular with regard to the shape and / or dimensions of their peripheral part and / or the shape and / or arrangement of their application elements. Cosmetic composition

[0128] Advantageously, the cosmetic composition intended to be applied to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows is a mascara composition. A mascara composition typically has a viscosity at 25°C greater than 5 Pa.s, in particular between 5 Pa.s and 50 Pa.s, especially when measured using a Rhéomat RM100® device.

[0129] Such a mascara composition typically comprises a dry extract, generally in an amount greater than or equal to 35% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition, a powdered coloring material, in particular one or more pigments, notably one or more metal oxides, for example one or more iron oxides, and advantageously a film-forming polymer. A mascara composition may also typically comprise one or more waxes, in a total amount in particular between 5 and 40% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition. Manufacturing process

[0130] The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing an applicator according to the invention, comprising the following steps:

[0131] a) thread the guard element and the individual elements onto a straight core along of its longitudinal axis, the web being mechanically linked to the guard element and each individual element to prevent said elements from pivoting freely on the web,

[0132] b) optionally, twist the web,

[0133] c) optionally, bend the web around at least one axis of curvature, in particular around an axis of curvature perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the web.

[0134] In step a), the mechanical connection without possibility of relative rotation of the core and of each element before twisting can be obtained by means of a core, made in the form of an elongated element of plastically deformable material (for example a metal wire) and having a non-circular cross-section (for example polygonal, such as square, rectangular, triangular, etc..., oval, multilobed, ...) in the untwisted state, threaded through an orifice of complementary cross-section provided in the guard element and in the core of each of the individual elements.

[0135] Alternatively, the core comprises two branches made of plastically deformable material, for example metal strands, optionally connected to each other at one of their ends by being made from a single wire folded into a pin, and the mechanical connection without possibility of relative rotation of the core and the elements threaded onto it before twisting is obtained by threading the branches of the core in the untwisted state into two orifices, preferably of complementary shapes, provided in the elements.

[0136] The method may include selecting the guard element from several that differ from each other in at least one of their appearance, dimensions, or material, for example, guard elements bearing different patterns. These guard elements may have the same central part, so as to be interchangeable and can be used interchangeably with the same application member and the same rod, as well as the same wringing member in the container; this makes it easy to customize an applicator, while keeping the same rod and the same application member; by changing the shape of the guard element, for example its outer diameter, the wringing characteristics can be modified and, in particular, different composition distributions can be obtained on the application member, especially near the guard element.Guard elements with different appearances can also be used to help the user distinguish between two applicators with different application components.

[0137] Step b) may involve subjecting the core to a torsion so as to impart a plastic deformation to the core, so that the latter adopts its twisted shape in a stable and definitive manner once this torsional force ceases to be exerted on it.

[0138] In step c), the core can be curved around an axis of curvature.

[0139] Alternatively, in step c), the web can be bent so that the longitudinal axis of the web forms a non-zero angle with the axis of the rod. This angle can be between 1° and 30° for example, and in particular close to 10°. Preferably, at the end of step c), the web has a bend formed at the junction between the guard element and the application member.

[0140] In step c), the core can be curved about at least two axes of curvature. Step c) can thus include: i. To bend the soul around a first axis, ii. To curve the soul around a second axis.

[0141] Steps i) and ii) can be carried out simultaneously or successively.

[0142] The applicator may have a non-constant curvature along its length at the end of step i) and before step ii), and in particular may comprise a straight portion and a curved portion or two straight portions connected by a bend. Step ii) may thus consist of curving a straight portion around the second axis of curvature.

[0143] The method may include selecting the guard element from among several which differ from each other in at least one of their appearance, dimensions or material.

[0144] The invention also relates to a conditioning and application device comprising: - a container containing the composition to be applied, - an applicator according to the invention.

[0145] The invention further relates to a cosmetic treatment method for eyelashes and / or eyebrows, in particular for applying makeup to them, comprising the step of applying a cosmetic composition to the eyelashes or eyebrows using an applicator according to the invention. Brief description of the drawings

[0146] The invention will be better understood upon reading the detailed description that follows, the non-limiting examples of its implementation, and upon examination of the accompanying drawing, in which:

[0147] [Fig-1] Fig. 1 represents schematically and partially an example of conditioning and application device according to the invention,

[0148] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] shows in isolation an example of an applicator made in accordance with the invention,

[0149] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is an exploded view of the applicator of [Fig.2] in the stem,

[0150] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] represents a longitudinal section of the guard element of the applicator of the [Fig.2],

[0151] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is a longitudinal section of the applicator of [Fig.2],

[0152] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is a first detail of [Fig.5],

[0153] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is a second detail of [Fig.6],

[0154] [Fig.8]a, [Fig.8]b, [Fig.8]c Figures 8a, 8b and 8c represent an element in isolation individual used to create the application element of [Fig.3],

[0155] [Fig.9] [Fig.9] represents a longitudinal section of the individual element of figures 8a to 8c,

[0156] [Fig. 10] is a view analogous to [Fig. 2], of a variant of the applicator,

[0157] [Fig.11], [Fig.12], [Fig.13] are views analogous to [Fig.2] of a variant of the applicator,

[0158] [Fig. 14] is a variant of the core on which the elements can be mounted, the core being shown before assembly of the elements,

[0159] [Fig. 15] is a variant of a guard element,

[0160] [Fig. 16] is a variant of an individual element,

[0161] [Fig. 17] illustrates an example of mounting the individual elements on the core, and

[0162] [Fig. 18] is a variant of an applicator according to the invention. Detailed description

[0163] The conditioning and application device 1 schematically and partially represented in [Fig.1] comprises a container 3 containing the composition F to be applied, and an applicator 2 for applying this composition.

[0164] The container 3 includes, in the example considered, a threaded neck 4 and the applicator 2 includes a gripping member 5 which also constitutes a closing cap for the container 3. This is arranged to attach to the neck 4 in order to close the container 3 in a leak-proof manner when not in use.

[0165] Container 3 can still be made in another way.

[0166] The applicator 2 has a rod 7 with a longitudinal axis Xt, which connects at its upper end, or proximal end, to the closing cap 5 and, at its lower end, or distal end, to an application member 8 via a guard element 20.

[0167] The container 3 also includes a wringer 6, for example inserted in the neck 4.

[0168] The wringer 6, which can be any type, includes in the example considered a lip arranged to wring the rod 7 and the application member 8 when the applicator 2 is removed from the container 3. The lip defines a wringing orifice 6a of diameter adapted to that of the rod.

[0169] The wringer 6 can be made of elastomer.

[0170] The wringer 6 may include a circular wringing orifice 6a, even slit-like.

[0171] The diameter of the spin orifice 6a of the spin element 6 is for example between 2.5 and 6 mm.

[0172] The wringer 6 may optionally include undulations, allowing the wringing orifice to widen more easily when the application member 8 passes through.

[0173] The spin-drying unit can still be adjusted, if necessary.

[0174] In the illustrated example, the rod 7 has a circular cross-section, but this does not depart from the scope of the present invention if the rod 7 has a different cross-section, as the cap 5 can then be attached to the container 3 by a means other than screwing. The wringer 6 is adapted to the shape of the rod 7 and to that of the application member 8.

[0175] In the example considered, the longitudinal axis Xt of the rod 7 is straight and coincides with the longitudinal axis of the container 3 when the applicator 2 is in place on it, but we do not depart from the scope of the present invention when the rod 7 is not straight, forming for example a bend.

[0176] The rod 7 may, where appropriate, include an annular constriction on its portion which is positioned opposite the lip of the wringer 6, so as not to mechanically stress the latter excessively during storage.

[0177] The rod 7 to which the application member 8 is attached may be at least partially, in particular entirely, flexible, particularly in the vicinity of the application member.

[0178] The attachment of the guard element 20 to the rod 7 is done by any means and in particular by force mounting, snap-fitting, gluing, welding, stapling or crimping, in a corresponding housing provided at the end of the rod 7.

[0179] The composition F that is applied may consist of any cosmetic product intended for makeup or the care of eyelashes and / or eyebrows. Preferably, it is mascara. Composition F may, in particular, include pigments, such as iron oxides, dispersed in an aqueous or anhydrous medium. The container capacity is preferably between 5 and 30 mL.

[0180] Figures 2 and 3 show an example of an applicator 3 with a guard element 20 according to the invention. In the illustrated example, the application member 8 is made up of individual elements 10, the guard element 20 being engaged in the proximal individual element 10a.

[0181] As illustrated, the guard element 20 and the individual elements 10 are mounted on a core 9 which holds them stacked. This core 9 is, for example, made from a metal wire bent into a hairpin shape, as in the illustrated example. For this purpose, the individual elements 10 and the guard element 20 have openings 11 and 21 respectively for the passage of the arms 9a and 9b of the core. It is not outside the scope of the invention if the core is made differently, in particular in the form of an elongated element made of a plastically deformable material and having a non-circular cross-section, and if the guard element 20 as well as each individual element 10 are threaded onto the core by means of a single opening with a cross-section chosen so as not to rotate on the core, for example of a complementary shape, as shown in [Fig. 14].

[0182] As illustrated in figures 3 and 4, the guard element 20 comprises a peripheral part 24 surrounding a central part 26. The latter has on its front face 23 a raised relief 60.

[0183] The front face 23 has at the level of the peripheral part 24, an annular surface 23a which has in section a slope of angle c with respect to a plane K perpendicular to the central axis Y of the guard element, as illustrated in [Fig.4].

[0184] In other words, the front face 23 is slightly conical around the protruding relief 60.

[0185] The peripheral part 24 has a contour, in front view, of generally circular shape. The peripheral portion 24 may, where applicable, have a diameter D of between 2 and 20 mm, preferably between 3 and 15 mm, for example, approximately 10 mm.

[0186] In the illustrated example, the peripheral portion 24 is in the form of a ring flattened in a plane perpendicular to a central axis Y of the guard element, which may be an axis of symmetry for the guard element 20. The peripheral portion 24 has a thickness of between 1 and 5 mm, preferably between 1 and 3 mm, for example, approximately 1.8 mm.

[0187] The projecting relief 60 has a rounded portion convex outwards. The projecting relief has a dome shape, as is particularly visible in [Fig. 3]. As illustrated, the dome can correspond substantially to a hemispherical cap, and can occupy, in projection, approximately between 40 and 60% of the front face of the guard element 20.

[0188] The protruding relief 60 has a maximum thickness H, relative to the edge of the core 12, of between 0.5 and 3 mm, for example on the order of 1 mm.

[0189] The openings 21 for the passage of the branches 9a, 9b of the core 9 are arranged in the central part 26 symmetrically relative to the Y axis of the guard element 20. The openings 21 pass through the projecting relief 60.

[0190] In the example considered, the projecting relief 60 is solid. Alternatively, the projecting relief 60 comprises a plurality of sectors 65, as illustrated in [Fig. 15]. The sectors 65 are inscribed within a spherical dome-shaped envelope surface.

[0191] As can be seen in figures 2 and 6, the projecting relief 60 of the guard element 20 engages in a recessed relief 50a provided on the rear face 15 of the proximal individual element 10a of the application member 8. The arrangement of the projecting reliefs 60 and recessed reliefs 50a allows the creation of an annular gap 70 between the facing faces 15 and 23 at the level of the peripheral parts 14 and 24, this gap being of maximum width j.

[0192] The maximum width j is, for example, between 0.1 mm and 2 mm, preferably between 0.1 mm and 1 mm, and for example close to 0.2 mm. In the illustrated embodiment, this annular gap 70 results from the fact that the front face 23 has, at the level of the peripheral part 24, an annular surface 23a which has a slope in cross-section angle c with respect to a plane K perpendicular to the central axis Y of the guard element 20, as illustrated.

[0193] Alternatively, the front face 23 is flat and the gap 70 results from the spacing of the guard element 20 and the individual element 10 due to the fact that these elements are less tightly packed. In this case, the top of the protruding relief 60 does not come into contact with the bottom of the recessed relief 50a.

[0194] The presence of the play 70 allows an angular displacement of amplitude d which can be substantially equal to the angle c, because in the position of maximum displacement the surface 23a comes against the surface 15a of the front face 15 at the level of the peripheral part 14, the two surfaces 23a and 15a being preferably substantially parallel at the level of the line of contact.

[0195] As illustrated, the recessed relief 50a has a complementary shape to that of the projecting relief 60. In the illustrated example, it includes a rounded portion concave outwards, in the form of a spherical cavity of revolution around the X axis of the element 10.

[0196] The concave rounded portions 50a and convex rounded portions 60 have radii of curvature r'c ; rB substantially equal. This radius of curvature is for example between 0.8 mm and 1.5 mm, for example on the order of approximately 1.2 mm.

[0197] As illustrated in particular in figures 5 and 6, the rounded convex portions 60 and concave portions 50a outwards form a ball joint.

[0198] Preferably, the ball joint has an angular deflection of amplitude d between 0.5° and 30° around at least one axis of rotation perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the web (and to the plane of the [Fig.6]).

[0199] As mentioned above, the application member comprises a plurality of individual elements 10, as illustrated in particular in [Fig. 5]. In the illustrated example, the individual elements 10 are identical.

[0200] An individual element 10 of the application member 8 is shown in isolation in figures 8a to 8c and 9.

[0201] Each individual element 10 comprises, as can be seen in Figures 8a to 8c, a core 12 having on its front face 13 a projecting relief 40 and on its rear face 15 a recess 50 similar to the aforementioned recessed relief 50a. The core 12 comprises a peripheral portion 14 surrounding a central portion 16.

[0202] As can be seen in Figures 5 and 7, the projecting relief 40 of an individual element 10 engages in the housing 50 of the adjacent individual element. The arrangement of the projecting reliefs 40 and the corresponding housings 50 allows the creation of an annular gap 80 between the facing faces 13 and 15 at the level of the peripheral parts 14, this gap being of maximum width j'.

[0203] The maximum width j' is, for example, between 0.1 mm and 2 mm, of Preference between 0.1 mm and 1 mm, and for example close to 0.2 mm. In the illustrated embodiment, this annular gap 20 results from the fact that the front face 13 has at the level of the peripheral part 14, an annular surface 13a which has in section a slope of angle c' with respect to a plane K' perpendicular to the central axis Y' of the element, as illustrated.

[0204] The front face 13 of the core of the individual element is slightly conical around the protruding relief 16.

[0205] Alternatively, the front face 13 is flat and the gap 20 results from the spacing of the individual elements due to the fact that the individual elements 10 are less tightly packed. In this case, the top of the protruding relief 40 does not come into contact with the bottom of the housing 50.

[0206] The set 80 allows the formation of composition F reserves at a certain radial distance from the core, namely in the illustrated example from junction 38 between the relief 40 and the peripheral part 14.

[0207] As described previously, the presence of the play 80 allows an angular displacement of amplitude d' which can be substantially equal to the angle c', because in the position of maximum displacement the surface 13a comes against the surface 15a of the front face 15 at the level of the peripheral part 14, the two surfaces 13a and 15a being preferably substantially parallel at the level of the line of contact.

[0208] It can also be seen that the protruding reliefs 40 form an obstacle preventing the composition from being trapped in interstitial areas close to the core.

[0209] The peripheral part 14 has a contour, in front view, of generally circular shape. The peripheral part may, where appropriate, have a diameter D' of between 2 and 10 mm, preferably between 3 and 6 mm, for example of approximately 4.5 mm.

[0210] In the illustrated example, the peripheral part 14 is in the form of a flattened ring in a plane perpendicular to a central axis Y' of the individual element, which can be an axis of symmetry for the core 12. The peripheral part 14 has a thickness between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 1 and 3 mm, for example on the order of about 1.2 mm.

[0211] The central part 16 has on its front face the protruding relief 40 and on its rear face the housing 50.

[0212] The projecting relief 40 has a shape similar to the projecting relief 60 of the guard element 20. It also has a rounded portion convex outwards. The projecting relief has a dome shape, as is particularly visible in Figures 8a and 8c and [Fig. 7]. As illustrated, the dome can be substantially hemispherical and can occupy, in projection, approximately 40 to 60% of the front face of the core 12.

[0213] The projecting relief 40 has a maximum thickness H', relative to the edge of the core 12, between 0.5 and 3 mm, for example on the order of 1mm.

[0214] The openings 11 for the passage of the branches 9a, 9b of the core 9 are arranged in the central part 16 symmetrically with respect to the axis Y' of the element 10. The openings 11 pass through the protruding relief 40.

[0215] The housing 50 has a shape complementary to that of the projecting relief 40. In the illustrated example, it includes a rounded portion concave outwards, in the form of a spherical cavity of revolution around the X axis of the element 10.

[0216] The convex rounded portions 40 and concave rounded portions 50 have radii of curvature r'c; r'b substantially equal. This radius of curvature is, for example, between 0.8 mm and 1.5 mm, for example on the order of approximately 1.2 mm.

[0217] As illustrated in [Fig.7], the outwardly convex and concave rounded portions of two successive application elements form a ball joint.

[0218] Preferably, the ball joint has an angular deflection of between 0.5° and 5° around at least one axis of rotation perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the web (and to the plane of the [Fig.7]).

[0219] In the example considered, the projecting relief 40 is solid. Alternatively, the projecting relief 40 comprises a plurality of sectors 45, as illustrated in [Fig. 16]. The sectors 45 are inscribed within a spherical dome-shaped envelope surface.

[0220] Each individual element 10 comprises application elements 30 carried by the core 12. These engage with the eyelashes or eyebrows when using the applicator 3. The application elements 30 in this example have the same pin shape.

[0221] The surface of the core 12 on which the elements are connected is cylindrical in shape and of revolution around the axis Y'.

[0222] In the illustrated example, the longitudinal axis X is straight and coincides with the axis Xt of the rod 7.

[0223] The longitudinal axis X of the core can be curved, as in the example illustrated in figures 11 to 13.

[0224] In the example of [Fig. 11], the longitudinal axis X of the web 9 is curved about an axis of curvature CL

[0225] This axis Cl is contained in the example described in a median plane of the soul 9.

[0226] The longitudinal axis X has a radius of curvature of, for example, between 100 mm and 200 mm, preferably between 150 mm and 170 mm. In the illustrated example, the radius of curvature rl is constant, but it does not depart from the scope of the invention if the radius of curvature rl of the web 9 is variable along its length.

[0227] As can be seen in [Fig. 11], the distal end 9c of the core 9 is eccentric with respect to the X axis of the rod 7.

[0228] The distal end 9c of the core 9 can be eccentric by a distance l between 1 mm and 5 mm mm from the Xt axis of the rod.

[0229] The shape of the application organ 8 results in it being wrung out in an inhomogeneous manner.

[0230] More specifically, the eccentric region 9f of the furthest from the axis Xt will be spun relatively vigorously while the axially opposite region 9d will be spun less vigorously because it is very close to the axis Xt.

[0231] The user thus has on the same applicator both a large reserve of product, useful for making local applications of product on the eyelashes, and a well-wrung part allowing for combing and separating the eyelashes.

[0232] It should also be noted that when the product is applied to the eyelashes by imparting a rotational movement to the application member around the axis Xt of the rod 7, an oscillation occurs in the application elements of the eccentric region 9f, transverse to the axis Xt, which can facilitate their penetration between the eyelashes and improve the support of the latter.

[0233] In the example illustrated in [Fig. 12], the longitudinal axis X of the web 9 is curved about two axes C'1 and C2. As illustrated, the web 9 is curved in an S-shape about these two parallel axes. In the example considered, the web 9 has two curves with different orientations f1 and f2. The two curves have substantially the same radius of curvature, but the invention remains valid even if the radii of curvature are different.

[0234] Due to the curvature of the core, the application member according to the invention, when observed in a direction perpendicular to the axis Xt of the rod 7, has a profile which varies, so that the application member has regions capable of performing different actions on the eyelashes.

[0235] In the illustrated example, the longitudinal axis of the core is contained in a plane, but we do not depart from the scope of the invention if the axis of the core comprises two portions not contained in the same plane.

[0236] To produce the applicators described above, the elements are first threaded onto the straight core 9, as illustrated in [Fig. 17]. The resulting elements have no possibility of rotation, as can be seen in [Fig. 3]. An applicator is thus obtained as illustrated in [Fig. 2].

[0237] To obtain the applicator of [Fig.1 1], the core 9 of the application member of [Fig.3] is subjected to a torsion around the axis Cl which is here oriented perpendicularly to the plane of the figure.

[0238] To obtain the applicator of [Fig.12], the straight web 9 is subjected to a torsion around the two axes C'i and C2.

[0239] The invention is not limited to an applicator having a non-twisted core.

[0240] Figures 10 and 13 show application elements conforming to examples of implementation of the invention, of which the core 9 is twisted.

[0241] Fig. 10 illustrates an example of an application member 8 having a straight twisted core.

[0242] In comparison with [Fig.2], we see that the twisting gives the application member a helical expansion of the application members 30 along the longitudinal axis of the core 9.

[0243] The application member illustrated in [Fig. 13] is similar to that of [Fig. 11] with a twisted core.

[0244] To produce the applicators described in figures 10 and 13, before applying the torsion around the aforementioned axes, the core 9 is twisted.

[0245] The invention is not limited to an application member 8 comprising a plurality of individual elements. An example of a molded application member is illustrated in [Fig. 18].

[0246] Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples just described.

[0247] For example, the number of application elements may be different.

[0248] Individual elements 10 which are not identical can also be stacked on the core, for example being made of different materials, in particular of different hardnesses, and / or with different shapes.

[0249] The geometry of the individual elements may be different, in particular with regard to the shape and / or dimensions of their peripheral part, and / or the shape or arrangement of their application elements.

[0250] The core can be given curvatures different from those described above.

[0251] Protruding reliefs can also be provided on the rear face of the elements in individual units and the housing units on the front of them.

[0252] The projecting reliefs may have an external surface in the shape of a spherical cap, less than a hemisphere for example between R and R / 2 in height, R being the radius of the sphere.

[0253] The relief can also be provided in recess on the guard element and in projection on the application member.

Claims

Demands

1. Applicator (2) for applying a cosmetic composition (F) to eyelashes or eyebrows, comprising: - an application member (8) having a proximal end defining a rear face (15) and an opposite distal end, the application member comprising: - a metal core (9), and - a plurality of individual elements (10) attached to the core, each individual element comprising a core (12) engaged on the core and at least one application element (30) carried by the core, - a guard element (20) attached to a rod (7) of the applicator and disposed at the proximal end of the application member (8), the guard element being axially supported against the adjacent end of the rod and held in this position by the metal core,and having a front face (23) provided with at least one first relief (60) capable of engaging in a second relief (50) of corresponding shape provided on the rear face (15) of the application member, one of the first and second reliefs being a protruding relief and the other a recessed relief, the protruding relief having at least one rounded portion convex outwards, in the shape of a cap, and the recessed relief having at least one rounded portion concave outwards.

2. Applicator (2) according to claim 1, the first and second reliefs (60; 50) being arranged to form a ball joint.

3. Applicator (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, the first relief (60) being a raised relief and the second relief (50) is a recessed relief.

4. Applicator (2) according to claim 3, the convex rounded portion being substantially spherical, the convex and concave rounded portions preferably having a substantially identical radius of curvature.

5. Applicator (2) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, the ball joint allowing an angular deflection (d) between 0.5° and 30°.

6. Applicator (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, the guard element (20) comprising a peripheral part (24) surrounding a central part (26), the central part (26) having the first relief (60).

7. Applicator (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, the front face (23) of the guard element (20) having an annular surface (23a) at the level of the peripheral part (24), said annular surface (23a) having in section a slope of angle (c) non-zero with respect to a plane perpendicular (K) to a central axis (Y) of the guard element (20).

8. Applicator (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, the one of the first and second reliefs which is projecting (60) comprising a plurality of sectors (65), in particular at least two portions convex outwards, preferably of rounded shape.

9. Applicator (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, the core (12) of each individual element (10) having on one face (13) at least one projecting relief (40) capable of engaging in a correspondingly shaped housing (50) provided on the opposite face (15) of the core of the adjacent individual element.

10. Applicator (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, the application member (8) comprising application elements (30) carried by the core (9) and arranged in at least one longitudinal row.

11. Applicator (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, the guard element being fixed relative to the stem.

12. Applicator (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, the guard element (20) having a radially outer surface bearing a decorative pattern, in particular printed or engraved, and / or a special appearance, for example reflective, in particular gold or silver.

13. 3 Method of manufacturing an applicator (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the following steps: a) threading the guard element (20) and the individual elements (10) onto a straight web (9) along its longitudinal axis, the web being mechanically linked to the guard element and the application member (8) to prevent the guard element and the application member from pivoting freely on the web, b) optionally, twisting the web, c) optionally, bending the web about at least one axis of curvature, in particular about an axis of curvature perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the web.

14. A manufacturing method according to the preceding claim, comprising the selection of the guard element (20) from several which differ from each other by at least one of their appearance or material.

15. 5 Conditioning and application device (1) comprising: - a container (3) containing the composition (F) to be applied, in particular equipped with a wringing device (6), - an applicator (2) as defined in any one of claims 1 to 12.

Images