Cosmetic product dispensing head, packaging and dispensing device, and associated process

Abstract

Cosmetic product dispensing head, packaging and dispensing device, and associated method. This head comprises a cap (95) covering a base (90), at least one of the cap (95) and the base (90) having a region (123) deformable relative to the other of the cap (95) and the base (90). The deformable region (123) is disposed adjacent to a dispensing orifice (104), the deformable region (123) being able to transition from a resting configuration in which it rests on the other of the cap (95) and the base (90) at the periphery of the orifice (104), and a product dispensing configuration, in which the deformable region (123) is deformed by the product exiting the orifice (104). At least one leakage path (130) is then formed between the other end of the cap (95) and the base (90) and the deformable region (123) leading to a product outlet (125) from the head. Figure for the abbreviation: Figure 7

Description

Title of the invention: Cosmetic product dispensing head, packaging and dispensing device, and associated method

[0001] The present invention relates to a cosmetic product dispensing head, intended to be mounted on at least one cosmetic product reservoir, the dispensing head comprising:

[0002] - a base defining at least one through-hole for product distribution coming from the reservoir,

[0003] - a headdress, having at least one region fixed on the base.

[0004] The distribution head is intended in particular to be mounted on a cosmetic product reservoir to form a cosmetic product conditioning and distribution device intended for use by a user.

[0005] The cosmetic product is, for example, a cosmetic skincare product, a cosmetic coloring product or a cosmetic makeup product.

[0006] More generally, a “cosmetic product” is a product as defined in Regulation CEN-1223 / 2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council dated 30 November 2009, relating to cosmetic products.

[0007] To distribute cosmetic products from a reservoir containing them, it is known for example to have a pump mechanism operated by a movable pusher on the reservoir.

[0008] The pump mechanism includes a dip tube that is immersed in the product at the bottom of the tank. To dispense the product, the user presses the movable plunger, which causes the product to be dispensed from the tank by means of the movement of a piston inside the pump. During this movement, the product flows through a dispensing conduit to an outlet generally located in a spout projecting transversely from the plunger.

[0009] Such a dispensing head is simple to use. However, it does not give complete satisfaction, particularly in the case where the dispensed product is viscous enough that it is not fully distributed to the user.

[0010] In this case, it is known that some product stagnates in the distribution conduit once its dispensing is complete, the plunger having returned to its rest position. The remaining product that is then in the distribution conduit, or possibly at its outlet, is subject to oxidation and drying.

[0011] This creates a risk of partial or total blockage of the distribution conduit, particularly when the product is likely to dry and solidify. Furthermore, the residual product is likely to contaminate the product dispensed subsequently. particularly during the next actuation of the push button, which impairs user comfort, who may feel that the dispensing head is dirty and / or contaminated.

[0012] To overcome this problem, the user usually disposes of the first dose of product redistributed, which causes product waste.

[0013] An object of the invention is therefore to provide a product distribution head which allows simple distribution of cosmetic product, in particular through a pusher mechanism or by simple application of overpressure in a cosmetic product reservoir, while avoiding or significantly limiting the formation of a product residue after distribution.

[0014] To this end, the invention relates to a distribution head of the aforementioned type, characterized in that the cap covers the base, at least one of the cap and the base having at least one deformable region relative to the other of the cap and the base, the deformable region being arranged opposite or adjacent to the distribution orifice, the deformable region being able to pass from a rest configuration in which the deformable region is in support on the other of the cap and the base at least at the periphery of the distribution orifice, and a product distribution configuration, in which the deformable region is deformed by the product exiting the distribution orifice, at least one leakage path being formed between the other of the cap and the base and the deformable region up to a product exit orifice out of the distribution head.

[0015] Thanks to the presence of the deformable region, it is possible to create, reversibly between the base and the cap, a sealed leakage path for the product, this sealed path closing once the product has been dispensed. In this way, the dead volume in which product could stagnate is minimized, or even eliminated. This generally leads to the elimination of solid residue formation, which prevents clogging of the dispensing channel and also avoids contamination of the dispensed product during subsequent dispensing.

[0016] In one embodiment, the cap has an inner face, intended to be placed opposite the base, and an outer face, the base having a bearing surface through which the distribution orifice opens, the inner face of the cap being applied to the bearing surface in the rest configuration.

[0017] Thanks to the close association between the cap and the base, with the application of the inner face of the cap on the base, the distribution head has a compact appearance and does not generate an over-volume for the conditioning and distribution device.

[0018] In one embodiment, the outlet orifice is delimited between the deformable region and the other of the cap and the base in the distribution configuration.

[0019] Thanks to this feature, it is possible to create a transverse outlet orifice, so as to adapt to the particular geometry of a pusher.

[0020] In one embodiment the outlet orifice is defined through the cap, in the deformable region.

[0021] When the outlet orifice is thus defined, it is possible to dispense the cosmetic product directly onto the outer face of the cap, which allows the cap to be used as an applicator on a body surface of the user.

[0022] In one embodiment at least one fixed region of the cap or base extends in relation to at least one internal peripheral fixing line defining the periphery of the leakage path, located around and away from the distribution orifice, the deformable region being defined inside the internal peripheral fixing line.

[0023] The presence of a peripheral fixing line at the periphery of the deformable region ensures a robust fixing and sealing of the cap around the deformable region, which guarantees a simple and reproducible deformation of the deformable region.

[0024] In one embodiment the internal peripheral fixing line has a teardrop shape.

[0025] The droplet shape of the peripheral fixing line in turn defines a deformable region which converges towards the outlet orifice, ensuring reproducible guidance of the product during its distribution.

[0026] In one embodiment the base or the cap has, at the level of the internal peripheral line of attachment, a plurality of through holes provided through the base or through the cap, the fixed region of the cap or the base comprising parts of the cap overmolded through the through holes.

[0027] The creation of an internal fixing line by means of holes made in the base, in which overmolded regions of the headpiece are placed, makes the manufacture of the head simple and reduces its manufacturing cost, while ensuring an extremely robust fixing of the headpiece on the base.

[0028] In one embodiment:

[0029] - at least one fixed region of the cap or base extends opposite a line external fixation device, located around and away from the internal fixation device line;

[0030] - the base or the cap has a bearing surface on which the deformable region is applied, and a protruding rim relative to the bearing surface, the internal peripheral fixing line being located on the bearing surface, the external peripheral fixing line being located on the rim.

[0031] The presence of an external peripheral line, around the internal peripheral line, ensures enhanced cooperation between the headdress and the base, which improves the aesthetic appearance of the head and ensures the concordance of shape between the base and the headdress, especially when the base has a protruding external rim.

[0032] In one variant, the base defines at least two distribution ports, the cap or the base having a region fixed on the base or on the cap for each distribution port, each region fixed on the base or on the cap extending opposite an internal peripheral fixing line disposed around each distribution port, the internal peripheral fixing lines defining disjoint leakage paths, each connected to a separate distribution port and each exiting through a separate outlet port.

[0033] The presence of two separate leakage paths connected to two separate product passage orifices allows two cosmetic products stored separately in one or more tanks to be distributed in a completely separate manner and ensures their extemporaneous mixing only after distribution.

[0034] In one embodiment, the base or cap has a boss disposed at the periphery of the distribution orifice, the deformable region in the rest configuration being applied to the boss.

[0035] The presence of the boss prevents the product dispensing orifice from becoming obstructed if the cap is pressed down. The opening defined by the boss also guides the product towards the outlet orifice.

[0036] In one embodiment, the dispensing head comprises a pump having a fixed part intended to be mounted on the neck of a container, the base and the cap forming a plunger mounted movable in the fixed part.

[0037] The distribution head according to the invention thus advantageously forms a pump that can be easily mounted on a container, and that can be used by a user with natural gestures.

[0038] In one variant, the base and the cap form a product applicator, the base being intended to be fixedly mounted on the container or each container.

[0039] In one variant, the outlet orifice has an oblong or rectangular shape.

[0040] Alternatively, the dispensing head can directly form an applicator which receives the dispensed cosmetic product, allowing its direct application to a body surface.

[0041] The invention also relates to a cosmetic product conditioning and distribution device comprising at least one reservoir, and at least one distribution head as defined above, mounted on the reservoir or each reservoir, the distribution orifice being in fluidic communication with the reservoir or each reservoir.

[0042] The invention also relates to a method for distributing cosmetic products, comprising the following steps:

[0043] - supply of a conditioning and dispensing device as defined above at the top, the deformable region occupying its rest configuration;

[0044] - creation of overpressure in the tank, causing the product to move cosmetics through the dispensing orifice;

[0045] - under the effect of overpressure, elastic deformation of the deformable region towards its dispensing configuration to create a leakage path from the dispensing orifice to a product outlet orifice, with the cosmetic product being dispensed through the outlet orifice;

[0046] - elastic return of the deformable region to its rest configuration.

[0047] The invention will be better understood upon reading the following description, given solely by way of example, and made with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0048] - [Fig. 1] [Fig. 1] is an exploded perspective view of a conditioning device operation and distribution according to the invention;

[0049] - [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a cross-sectional view of the conditioning and dis contribution of the [Fig.l];

[0050] - [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a sectional view, along the same sectional plane as [Fig.2], of an applicator of the conditioning and distribution device shown in Figures 1 and 2;

[0051] - [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a perspective view of the base of the device applicator conditioning and distribution of the [Fig.1];

[0052] - [Fig. 5] [Fig. 5] is a top view of the cosmetic product applicator of the [Fig.3];

[0053] - [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is a cross-sectional view, taken analogously to [Fig.2] of a second conditioning and distribution device according to the invention;

[0054] - [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is an exploded perspective view of the distribution head of the conditioning and distribution device of the [Fig.6];

[0055] - [Fig.8] [Fig.8] is a top view of the distribution head of the device [Fig.6].

[0056] A first example of a distribution head according to the invention, in a product conditioning and distribution device 10, is illustrated by figures 1 to 4.

[0057] In this example, the conditioning and distribution device 10 comprises two separate product storage tanks 15, two separate product distribution intermediate chambers 20, a pressurization member 30, a product distribution head which here forms an applicator 35 and optionally a cover 37.

[0058] The reservoirs 15 have, for example, respectively a bottle shape comprising a body 40 and a neck 45.

[0059] Each reservoir 15 defines an internal volume 50 suitable for storing a respective cosmetic product.

[0060] Cosmetic products are, for example, two products intended to be stored separately and to be dispensed simultaneously from the packaging and dispensing device 10 to be applied jointly or as a mixture formed outside the packaging and dispensing device 10 onto a body surface of a user.

[0061] For example, cosmetic products are cosmetic products for coloring, makeup, hygiene or care of a body surface of the user.

[0062] These products are, for example, liquid products capable of forming an antiperspirant when brought into contact. Thus, the two cosmetic products are capable of reacting to form a solid compound capable of blocking the sweat pores of a user of the conditioning and dispensing device 10.

[0063] The reservoirs 15 here came from material.

[0064] The tanks 15 are, for example, made of a flexible material suitable for deformation under manual action. Advantageously, the 15 reservoirs are formed of polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE) or in several layers of several materials if an increased barrier is required for sensitive formulas.

[0065] In the example shown in [Fig.1], each reservoir 15 defines at its periphery at least one bulge 55. Preferably, each reservoir 15 defines two bulges 55 opposite to each other with respect to the body 40. Each bulge 55 is a preferred area allowing, when it is supported, the associated reservoir 15 to be reliably and reproducibly deformed and compressed.

[0066] Each neck 45 advantageously defines an annular boss 60 (see [Fig.2]) suitable for cooperating with the pressurizing member 30 as will be described below.

[0067] As can be seen in [Fig. 2], each intermediate chamber 20 is arranged within the internal volume 50 of the respective reservoir 15. The intermediate chambers 20 preferentially extend over a height less than the height of each body 40.

[0068] Each intermediate chamber 20 preferably has the shape of a cup. The two intermediate chambers 20 are, for example, identical to each other.

[0069] Each intermediate chamber 20 defines an intermediate volume 62 that is substantially smaller than the internal volume 50. For example, the intermediate volume 62 is less than 10% of the internal volume 50 and is in particular between 1% and 5%, and in particular close to 2% of the internal volume 50.

[0070] Each intermediate chamber 20 is in fluidic communication with the corresponding internal volume 50. Preferably, through each intermediate chamber 20, at least one window 65 is provided, ensuring fluidic communication between the intermediate chamber 20 and the internal volume 50 in which the intermediate chamber 20 is located. For example, a plurality of windows 65, for example between two and six windows 65, in particular four windows 65, are provided in each chamber. termedial 20. The windows 65 are distributed around each intermediate chamber 20. Bridges of material 70 separate two contiguous windows 65.

[0071] Preferably, the quantity of cosmetic product stored in each internal volume 50 is such that the corresponding intermediate chamber 20 is not immersed in the cosmetic product. However, thanks to the windows 65, the cosmetic product is able to move between the internal volume 50 and the intermediate volume 62.

[0072] The pressurizing device 30 is configured to pressurize each of the tanks 15, this pressure being transmitted to the intermediate chambers 20 via the windows 65.

[0073] The pressurization device 30 is for example a ring enveloping at least partially the two tanks 15.

[0074] The ferrule 30 comprises, for example, two opposing flexible flanges 75. Each flange 75 has two internal projections (not shown) forming support elements. Each projection bears against the reservoirs 15, more particularly against the bulges 55 of the reservoirs 15. The projections are designed to bear against the reservoirs 15 in order to compress them during the mutual coming together of the flanges 75.

[0075] The fret 30 is for example suitable for moving from a rest position in which the fret 30 and the reservoirs 15 are at rest, to a distribution position in which the fret 30 is pressed against the reservoirs 15 to compress the reservoirs.

[0076] In the distribution position, the sides 75 of the fret 30 are brought closer together, in particular by being gripped between the fingers of a user.

[0077] The fret 30 and the intermediate chambers 20 are preferably made from a single piece of material.

[0078] The fret 30 defines for example an end plate 79 connecting the upper edges of the sides 75 and, for each tank 15, a neck 80A defining an annular groove 80 suitable for receiving the boss 60 of each neck 45 in order to be snapped onto the tanks.

[0079] The collar 80A protrudes away from the body 40 on the terminal plate 79.

[0080] The ferrule 30 is preferably hermetically snapped onto the reservoirs 15. In other words, the interlocking is such that no fluid can substantially circulate in the annular grooves 80, between the neck 80A and the bosses 60.

[0081] With reference to [Fig.3], the applicator 35 here comprises two dip tubes 85. It further comprises in this example a base 90 and a cap 95 at least partially deformable covering the base 90.

[0082] Each dip tube 85 is associated respectively with a reservoir 15 to dip exclusively into the chamber 20 received in this reservoir.

[0083] Each dip tube 85 extends between a distal end 100 and a proximal end 105. The distal end 100 opens into an intermediate chamber 20 respective. The proximal end 105 opens outside the associated reservoir 15.

[0084] Each dip tube 85 is designed to circulate the cosmetic product from the intermediate chamber 20 to an exterior of the reservoir 15. Thus, the only fluidic communication between the internal volumes 50 and the exterior of the conditioning and distribution device 10 passes through the dip tubes 85.

[0085] As seen in [Fig.4], the base 90 has a bearing surface 106 of the cap 95, an internal surface opposite the bearing surface 106 and a rim 107 projecting from the bearing surface 106 at its periphery, in the same direction as the plunger tubes 85, around them.

[0086] The dip tubes 85 open at their proximal end 105 through a product distribution orifice 104 extending through the support surface 106.

[0087] The base 90 preferentially delimits a plurality of holes 110 passing through it.

[0088] The holes 110 extend over at least one internal fixing line 108 of the cap 95 located respectively around each outlet orifice 104 opening at the proximal end of a dip tube 85.

[0089] The holes 110 further define at least one external fixing line 109, of the cap 95 extending outside the internal fixing lines 108.

[0090] In the example shown in [Fig.4], at least one external fixing line 109 advantageously extends through the rim 107 to ensure peripheral fixing of the cap 95 on the rim 107.

[0091] Each internal fixing line 108 here has a closed contour, advantageously in the shape of a teardrop, with a rounded body 109A surrounding the orifice 104, and a tip 109B.

[0092] In the example of [Fig.4], the points 109B of the internal lines 108 are arranged in a staggered pattern.

[0093] The internal fixing lines 108 are here without overlap so that the internal regions they delimit are totally disjoint.

[0094] The base 90 is for example made of a rigid material less deformable than the cap 95, such as metal or a plastic material, in particular polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), or polyamide (PA), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyketone (PK), for example POKETONE ™ material marketed by the HYOSUNG Company, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), or a mixture of these materials.

[0095] The cap 95 has a shape substantially complementary to the bearing surface 106 and the rim 107 so as to apply itself at rest on the bearing surface 106 and on the rim 107. It thus comprises a central part 121A applied on the bearing surface 106, and a peripheral dropped edge 121B applied on the rim 107.

[0096] The cap 95 defines an inner face 115 oriented towards the base 90 and an outer face 120 oriented towards the outside of the conditioning and distribution device 10. The inner face 115 and outer face 120 are opposite each other with respect to the cap 95.

[0097] The cap 95 is overmolded onto the base 90. More particularly, each hole 110 of the base 90 is overmolded by the cap 95. Material from the cap 95 extends through each hole 110 and forms a material bridge outside the hole 110, on the surface opposite the bearing surface 106, to clamp the base 90 between the inner face 115 and the material bridge.

[0098] There is therefore a continuity of material between an external part of the cap 95 applied to the bearing surface 106 of the base 90 and an internal part of the cap 95 formed by the material bridges through each hole 110 and by locking stops extending in projection on the internal surface of the base 90.

[0099] The base 90 is thus sandwiched between the internal and external parts of the cap 95.

[0100] This arrangement of the cap 95 on the base 90 reinforces the attachment of the cap 95 to the base 90 and limits the risk of product escape.

[0101] The cap 95 thus defines, opposite each internal fixing line 108, and each external fixing line 109, a region 122 fixed on the base 90. Inside each region 122 fixed on the base 90 located opposite an internal fixing line 108, the cap defines a deformable region 123 during the distribution of the product, freely deformable with respect to the support surface 106. The deformable region 123 extends in particular opposite the product distribution orifice 104.

[0102] The cap 95 is for example made of an elastically deformable plastic material such as polyethylene (PE), poly(styrene-ethyl-butyl-styrene) (SEBS), polyethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) or other.

[0103] Preferably, the proximal end 105 of each dip tube 85 opens onto the inner face 115. The cap 95 includes, for each dip tube 85, an outlet orifice 125 passing through it from the inner face 115 to the outer face 120.

[0104] The outer surface 120 is suitable for direct application to a part of the user's body, such as their armpits. When cosmetic products exit through the outlet orifices 125, they are suitable for mixing on the outer surface 120.

[0105] The cap 95 is elastically deformable between a rest configuration and a distribution configuration.

[0106] In the resting configuration, the deformable region 123 of the cap 95 is in a tight seal against the bearing surface 106. It covers the proximal end 105 of each dip tube 85, opposite the passage orifice 104, by its inner face 115, to prevent product from being distributed outside the dip tube 85.

[0107] In the distribution configuration, the deformable region 123 of the cap 95 is elastically deformed by the cosmetic product exiting the proximal end 105 and passing through the distribution orifice 104.

[0108] The deformable region 123 moves locally away from the support surface 106. It thus forms a leakage path 130 between the base 90 and the cap 95.

[0109] The escape path 130 is delimited between the bearing surface 106 of the base 90 and the inner face 115 of the cap 95. The escape path is delimited at its periphery by the internal fixing line 108 defined by the holes 110 of the base 90 overmolded by the cap 95.

[0110] Each leakage path 130 is configured to conduct the cosmetic product from the dispensing port 104 to the associated outlet port 125.

[0111] Since the internal fixing lines 108 are without overlap, each escape path 130 is hermetically separated from the other.

[0112] For example, each leakage path 130 takes the form of a drop in which the associated outlet orifice 125 is located at the level of a peak of the drop.

[0113] The cover 37 is removably mounted on the cap 95. The cover 37 prevents the outlet ports 125 from being visible when the conditioning and dispensing device is not in use.

[0114] A method for distributing cosmetic products stored in the packaging and distribution device 10 will now be described.

[0115] Initially, the packaging and dispensing device 10 stores two cosmetic products in the internal volumes 50. The intermediate chambers 20 are at least partially empty. The fret 30 is in the rest position and each deformable region 123 of the cap 95 is in the rest configuration, applied in a complementary manner against the bearing surface of the base 90.

[0116] The cosmetic products are thus kept in a sealed manner and separated from each other in each reservoir 15.

[0117] To use the conditioning and dispensing device 10, the user removes the cover 37.

[0118] During a filling step, each intermediate chamber 20 is filled with the cosmetic product stored in the reservoir 15 associated with the intermediate chamber 20. For example, the user turns over and / or shakes the conditioning and dispensing device 10. The cosmetic product stored in the internal volume 50 is then stirred and enters the intermediate chamber 20 through the windows 65.

[0119] At the end of the filling step, each intermediate chamber 20 contains cosmetic product, preferably is filled with cosmetic product.

[0120] Then, during a pressurization step, the user actuates the pressurization device under pressure 30. To do this, the user presses the fret 30 between their fingers to move it from its rest position to its distribution position. This brings the sides 75 closer together, deforming them.

[0121] The ferrule 30 then presses, advantageously via its internal projections (not shown), on the reservoirs 15, advantageously via the bulges 55. The reservoirs 15 are compressed and the pressure in the internal volumes 50 increases. The increase in pressure in the internal volumes 50 induces pressurization of the intermediate chambers 20.

[0122] During a distribution step concomitant with the pressurization step, the cosmetic products circulate simultaneously, from their intermediate chamber 20 in the associated dip tube 85, to the proximal end 105 of the tube 85.

[0123] Under the pressure of the cosmetic product through the distribution orifice 104 at the proximal end 105, each deformable region 123 of the cap 95 deforms from its resting configuration to its distribution configuration. The leakage path 130 is formed between the deformable region 123 and the base 90, through which the cosmetic product flows until it reaches the outlet orifice 125.

[0124] Each cosmetic product then flows onto the outer face 120 of the cap 95. The user applies the outer face 120 against a body surface.

[0125] This application ensures the immediate mixing of the two cosmetic products upon contact with the user's body. The two cosmetic products react when mixed, forming, for example, a solid compound in the user's sweat pores, thus preventing perspiration.

[0126] When the intermediate chambers 20 are empty or when the user stops pressing the fret 30, each deformable region 123 of the cap 95 returns to its rest configuration.

[0127] The inner face 115 returns to contact against the bearing surface 106 and seals tightly the distribution orifice 104 at each proximal end 105 of a dip tube 85. Each leakage path 130 is therefore sealed tightly by the spontaneous elastic return of the deformable part 123 against the bearing surface 106.

[0128] The excess cosmetic product possibly present in each leakage path 130 is therefore advantageously expelled through the outlet ports 125 and / or returns partly into the dip tubes 85.

[0129] In this way, no cosmetic product remains stored in a part in contact with the outside air of the conditioning and distribution device 10, upstream of the outlet 125. The formation of a residue of solidified and / or degraded product after distribution is therefore totally prevented or very limited, which increases user comfort.

[0130] When the user stops pressing fret 30, fret 30 returns to the configuration resting position.

[0131] Optionally, the user repositions the cover 37 on the cap 95.

[0132] The packaging and dispensing device 10 according to the invention is very practical to use. A single press is required to dispense at least two cosmetic products simultaneously.

[0133] Furthermore, in the particular case where the volume displaced in each reservoir 15 by the pressure on the fret 30 is much greater than the volume of the intermediate chambers 20, the quantity of cosmetic product distributed from each reservoir 15 depends on the dimension of each intermediate chamber 20. Thus, when the intermediate chambers 20 are identical, the same quantity of each of the cosmetic products is distributed, without the user needing to control this quantity.

[0134] In this particular case, a different proportion between each of the two cosmetic products is likely to be obtained if the intermediate chambers are of different dimensions.

[0135] In a more general case, the volume displaced in each reservoir 15 by the pressure on the fret 30 is less than the volume of the intermediate chambers 20 (corresponding to a partial emptying of the intermediate chambers 20 under the effect of the pressure on the fret 30).

[0136] In this case, the dosage of the quantity of product exiting each of the reservoirs 15 is substantially identical.

[0137] If we want to vary the proportion of one product relative to the other, we can, for example, adjust the dimensions of the support areas 55 to generate a different deformation of the reservoirs 15. This can be achieved by creating a delay or by favoring the support on one reservoir 15 over the other to obtain a different dose.

[0138] Thus, the conditioning and distribution device 10 is adaptable to the desired composition of the mixture of the two cosmetic products.

[0139] In all cases, air is drawn back into the reservoirs 15 after dispensing by pressing on the collar 30. This air is drawn back in, for example, via the dispensing ports 125, along the same path by which the products are dispensed. Alternatively, the reservoirs 15 are reservoirs without air refill, such as "bag-in-bottle" reservoirs formed, for example, by a flexible bag containing the product, the flexible bag being received inside a more rigid bottle. The flexible bag compresses as the product it contains is dispensed.

[0140] A second conditioning and distribution device 210 according to the invention will now be described, with reference to [Fig.6].

[0141] The device 210 comprises a reservoir 15, for example formed from a bottle, or a flask, and a dispensing head 212 according to the invention, forming a pump mechanism, mounted on the reservoir 15.

[0142] The head 212 includes a movable pusher 214, a pump 216 activated by the movement of the movable pusher 214, and a collar 218 for fixing to the reservoir 15.

[0143] The head 212 advantageously comprises a dip tube 220, fixed to a distal end of the pump 216 to dip towards the bottom of the reservoir 15.

[0144] The pusher 214 is mounted movable relative to the pump 216 along a displacement axis A-A' (here vertical), between a proximal rest position and a distal actuation position.

[0145] The pusher 214 here has a structure according to the invention, analogous to that of the applicator 35 described above. As illustrated by [Fig. 7], it thus comprises a base 90, and a deformable cap 95, applied to the base 90.

[0146] In this example, the base 90 has a beak-like shape. As before, it has a bearing surface 106, which is concave in this example. It also has a rim 107 projecting towards the reservoir 15 from the bearing surface 106.

[0147] The base 90 has a tip 222 for dispensing the product. With reference to [Fig. 7], the base 90 has a single product dispensing orifice 104 passing through it, and an internal fixing line 108 formed of holes 110 passing through it surrounding the dispensing orifice 104. Unlike the lines 108 described previously, this internal fixing line 108 has a C-shape opening opposite the tip 222.

[0148] Furthermore, the bearing surface 106 has, around the distribution orifice 104, a peripheral boss 224 which also has a C-shape.

[0149] As will be seen below, the boss 224 prevents obstruction of the distribution orifice 104, when a user's finger presses on the cap 95 to move the pusher 214.

[0150] The C-shaped boss 224 opens towards the tip 222, also allowing guidance of the product exiting through the orifice 104 towards the tip 222 through the opening provided in the internal fixing line 108.

[0151] As before, the base 90 has an external fixing line 109 which is formed by through holes 110 made on the periphery of the rim 107.

[0152] The cap 95 has a central part 121A applied to the bearing surface 106, and a dropped edge 121B applied to the rim 107. It defines a product outlet orifice 125, provided in the dropped edge 121B, opposite the tip 222.

[0153] As before, the cap 95 is overmolded onto the base 90, and bridges of material are formed in the holes 110, and through these, opposite the bearing surface 106.

[0154] Material from the cap 95 extends through each hole 110 and forms a bridge of material outside the hole 110, on the surface opposite the bearing surface 106, to sandwich the base 90 between the inner face 115 and the material bridge.

[0155] There is therefore a continuity of material between an external part of the cap 95 applied to the bearing surface 106 of the base 90 and an internal part of the cap 95 formed by the material bridges through each hole 110 and by locking stops extending in projection on the internal surface of the base 90.

[0156] The base 90 is thus sandwiched between the internal and external parts of the cap 95.

[0157] Thus, the cap 95 has a peripheral region 122 fixed on the bearing surface 106 opposite the internal fixing line 108, and a deformable region 123, freely deformable with respect to the bearing surface 106, formed in the center of the fixing region 122 up to the outlet orifice 125. The deformable region 123 extends in particular opposite the distribution orifice 104.

[0158] With reference to [Fig.5], the pusher 214, comprises, in addition to the base 90 and the cap 95, an external guide skirt 226, and an internal guide skirt 228 which protrude towards the reservoir 15 along the axis of movement AA' of the pusher 214.

[0159] The skirts 226, 228 delimit between them an intermediate annular space 229 for guiding the movement of the pusher 214.

[0160] As illustrated by [Fig.5], the pump 216 comprises a fixed part formed of a hollow pump body 230, defining an internal product receiving chamber 232, and advantageously, of an internal guide 234 fixedly mounted in the pump body 230. The fixed part of the pump 216 further comprises a non-return valve 236 mounted at the distal end of the internal chamber 232.

[0161] The internal guide 234 defines an internal guide sleeve 238, having an upper part adapted to fit into the intermediate space 229 to guide the translation of the pusher 214 along the axis A-A'.

[0162] The non-return valve 236 in this example comprises a lower seat 239 of revolution about the axis A-A', an open upper seat 240 and a movable element 242 formed here by a ball, adapted to evolve between a distal position of tight support on the lower seat 239 and a proximal position of product passage through the upper seat 240.

[0163] In the distal position resting on the lower seat 239, the movable member 242 seals the lower seat 239 tightly and prevents the passage of fluid from outside the container 20 into the inside of the container 20.

[0164] In the proximal product passage position, the movable member 242 rests on the upper seat 240 and allows the passage of fluid from the inside of the container 20 to the outside of the container 20.

[0165] The pump 216 further comprises a moving part jointly with the pusher 214 including an actuating rod 244, a pumping piston 246, circulating in chamber 232 and a piston stop 248

[0166] It further includes an elastic excitation member 249 of the actuating rod 244 and of the pusher 214 towards the proximal rest position.

[0167] The actuating rod 244 extends through the sleeve 238 to be moved longitudinally by the movable pusher 214 along the sleeve 238. It has an external movable proximal stop 250 on which the internal skirt 228 of the movable pusher 214 is engaged.

[0168] The actuating rod 244 internally defines a product circulation conduit 252 which opens proximally by being fluidly connected to the product distribution orifice 104 through the internal skirt 228.

[0169] The elastic stress member 249 is interposed between the external stop 250 and a fixed distal stop 253 projecting towards the axis A-A' from the internal guide 234. It is formed for example by a helical spring.

[0170] The piston 246 seals the internal product receiving chamber 232 upwards and against the walls of the body 230. The piston 246 is wedged between the end of the actuating rod 244 and the piston stop 248 to be moved together with it.

[0171] In the example shown in [Fig.5], the air intake downstream of the piston 246 is provided by a lateral orifice 256 formed through the pump body 230 and / or through the guide sleeve 238.

[0172] The piston stop 248 is mounted at the distal end of the rod 242. It defines at least one product passage window 254 connecting the internal chamber 232 and the circulation conduit 252.

[0173] The assembly formed by the pusher 214, the rod 244, the piston 246, the piston stop 248 is thus mobile along the axis A-A', under the effect of the displacement of the mobile pusher 214 between the proximal rest position and the distal actuation position.

[0174] The operation of the head 212 will now be described.

[0175] Initially, before first use, the movable pusher 214, the actuating rod 244, the piston 246, and the piston stop 248 are in their proximal rest position. They are held in this position by the elastic force of the actuating member 249 which is applied between the stops 250, 253.

[0176] When the user wishes to dispense the product, he presses on the movable pusher 214, for example by placing his finger on the cap 95, opposite the bearing surface 106, to move it along the axis A-A' towards the distal actuation position.

[0177] During this movement, the movable pusher 214 moves towards the reservoir 15 in translation along the axis A-A', being guided by sliding on the sleeve 238. The stops 250, 253 move closer to each other, compressing the soli- elastic quote 249.

[0178] The movement of the movable pusher 214 causes that of the actuating rod 244, which in turn pushes the piston 246 towards the non-return valve 236.

[0179] The movable member 242 presses against the lower seat 239 and prevents fluid from flowing into the reservoir. The fluid in the chamber 232 flows through the window 254, then rises in the circulation conduit 232 to the orifice 104. The deformable region 123 deforms to allow the passage of this pressurized fluid by creating a leakage path 130 to the outlet orifice 125.

[0180] Then, when the movable pusher 214 reaches its distal actuation position, the user releases the movable pusher 214.

[0181] The elastic stimulus member 249 redeploys to move the movable stop 250 away from the fixed stop 253, and causes the movable pusher 214 to return to the proximal rest position.

[0182] During this return, the piston stop 248 moves the piston 246 away from the reservoir 12 along the axis A-A'. This results in product being drawn into the chamber 232 via the plunger tube 220, and the movement of the moving part 242 towards the upper seat 240.

[0183] During a further push by the user on the movable pusher 214 towards the distal actuation position, the movable member 242 moves back over the lower seat 239, sealing the chamber 232, and causing, as described previously, the expulsion of the product contained in the chamber 232 through the window 254, the circulation conduit 252, and the distribution orifice 104.

[0184] The pressure of the product elastically deforms the deformable region 123 into its distribution configuration to create a leakage path 130 to the outlet orifice 125.

[0185] The product is then distributed outwards through the outlet orifice 125.

[0186] Then, during the upward movement of the mobile pusher 214, the deformable region 123 spontaneously returns by elastic recoil to its rest configuration, closing the leakage path 130.

[0187] The residual product present in the leakage path 130 is returned to the circulation conduit 252, which is sealed by the application of the deformable region of the cap 95 onto the base 90. Thus, no product stagnates near the outlet orifice 125, preventing the formation of a residue and its solidification. Product dispensing therefore remains just as efficient, but the risk of contamination and / or obtaining a product residue during the first dispensing is avoided, thereby increasing user comfort while limiting the risk of product loss.

[0188] In an unshown variant, the head 212 is simply formed by a fixed, push-button-shaped nozzle analogous to the push-button 214, without the presence of a pump 216. The container 12 is deformable, and the deformation of container 12 causes the product to pass to the distribution orifice 104, then the reversible deformation of the deformable region 123 to establish a leakage path 130 to the outlet orifice 125.

[0189] Air return to the container is also ensured either through the outlet orifice 25, or by slow leakage between the deformable region 123 and the bearing surface 106 of the base 90.

[0190] In a variant (not shown) of each of the preceding embodiments, the outlet orifice 125 is delimited between the deformable region 123 of the cap 95 and the base 90 in the distribution configuration, without being provided through the cap 95.

[0191] In an unshown variant of each of the preceding embodiments, the deformable region 123 is located on the base 90 and not on the cap 95. At least one region of the cap 95 opposite the deformable region 123 located on the base 90 is then rigid. As before, in the rest configuration, the deformable region 123 is disposed in support of the opposite region of the cap 95 at least at the periphery of the distribution orifice 104. In the product distribution configuration, the deformable region 123 is deformed by the product exiting the distribution orifice 104, at least one leakage path 130 being formed between the cap 95 and the deformable region 123 up to the outlet orifice 125.

[0192] In a further alternative, each of the base 90 and the cap 95 has a deformable region 123, the deformable regions 123 being applied against each other in the rest configuration, the deformable regions 123 being deformed by the product exiting the distribution orifice to form a leakage path 130 between the deformable regions 123 up to the outlet orifice 125.

Claims

Demands

1. A cosmetic product dispensing head, intended to be mounted on at least one cosmetic product reservoir (15), the dispensing head comprising: - a base (90) defining at least one through orifice (104) for dispensing product from the reservoir (15), - a cap (95), having at least one region fixed (122) to the base (90), characterized in that the cap (95) covers the base (90), at least one of the cap (95) and the base (90) having at least one region (123) deformable relative to the other of the cap (95) and the base (90), the deformable region (123) being disposed opposite or adjacent to the dispensing orifice (104), the deformable region (123) being capable of moving from a rest configuration in which the deformable region (123) is supported by the other of the cap (95) and the base (90) at least at the periphery of the dispensing orifice (104), and a product dispensing configuration,in which the deformable region (123) is deformed by the product exiting the distribution orifice (104), at least one leakage path (130) being formed between the other of the cap (95) and the base (90) and the deformable region (123) to a product outlet orifice (125) out of the distribution head, and in that the base (90) or the cap (95) has a boss (224) disposed at the periphery of the distribution orifice (104), the deformable region (123) in the rest configuration being applied to the boss (224).

2. Distribution head according to claim 1, in which the cap (95) has an inner face (115), intended to be placed opposite the base (90), and an outer face (120), the base (90) having a bearing surface (106) through which the distribution orifice (104) opens, the inner face (115) of the cap (95) being applied to the bearing surface (106) in the rest configuration.

3. Distribution head according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outlet orifice (125) is delimited between the deformable region (123) and the other of the cap (95) and the base (90) in the distribution configuration.

4. Distribution head according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the outlet orifice (125) is defined through the cap (95), in the deformable region (123).

5. Distribution head according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one fixed region (122) of the cap (95) or base (90) extends opposite at least one internal peripheral line (108) of attachment defining the periphery of the leakage path (130), situated around and away from the distribution orifice (104), the deformable region (123) being defined inside the internal peripheral line (108) of attachment.

6. Distribution head according to claim 5, wherein the internal peripheral fixing line (108) has a teardrop shape.

7. Distribution head according to any one of claims 5 or 6, wherein the base (90) or the cap (95) has, at the level of the internal peripheral line (108) of attachment, a plurality of through holes (110) provided through the base (90) or through the cap (95), the fixed region (122) of the cap (95) or of the base (90) comprising parts of the cap (95) overmolded through the through holes (110).

8. Distribution head according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein at least one fixed region (122) of the cap (95) or base (90) extends in relation to an external peripheral line (109) of attachment, situated around and away from the internal peripheral line (108) of attachment.

9. Distribution head according to claim 8, wherein the base (90) or the cap (95) has a bearing surface (106) on which the deformable region (123) is applied, and a rim (107) projecting from the bearing surface (106), the internal peripheral line (108) of attachment being located on the bearing surface (106), the external peripheral line (109) of attachment being located on the rim (107).

10. Distribution head according to any one of claims 5 to 9, wherein the base (90) defines at least two distribution ports (104), the cap (95) or the base (90) having a region fixed (122) on the base (90) or on the cap (95) for each distribution port (104), each region fixed (122) on the base (90) or on the cap (95) extending opposite an internal peripheral line (108) of fixing disposed around each distribution port (104), the internal peripheral lines (108) of fixing defining disjoint creepage paths (130), each connected to a separate distribution port (104) and each opening out through a separate outlet port (125).

11. Dispensing head according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a pump (216) having a fixed part intended to be mounted on the neck of a container (15), the base (90) and the cap (95) forming a pusher (214) movably mounted in the fixed part.

12. Dispensing head according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the base (90) and the cap (95) forming a product applicator (35), the base (90) being intended to be fixedly mounted on the container or each container (15).

13. Cosmetic product conditioning and dispensing device (10) comprising at least one reservoir (15), and at least one dispensing head according to any one of the preceding claims, mounted on the reservoir or each reservoir (15), the dispensing orifice (104) being in fluidic communication with the reservoir or each reservoir (15).

14. A method for distributing cosmetic products, comprising the following steps: - providing a conditioning and dispensing device according to claim 13, the deformable region (123) occupying its rest configuration; - creating overpressure in the reservoir (15), causing the cosmetic product to move through the dispensing orifice (104); - under the effect of the overpressure, elastic deformation of the deformable region (123) towards its dispensing configuration to create a leakage path (130) from the dispensing orifice (104) to a product outlet orifice (125), the cosmetic product being dispensed through the outlet orifice (125); - elastic return of the deformable region (123) to its rest configuration.

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