A refillable packaging assembly for a cosmetic product, comprising a refill-forming device and an axial retention device for said refill-forming device within a casing assembly.

The refillable cosmetic packaging assembly uses a flexible tab and axial retaining ring with a locking mechanism to address issues of axial play and accidental extraction, ensuring stable and reliable retention of refill containers.

FR3149477A1Active Publication Date: 2024-12-13LOREAL SA
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Patent Information

Application Number
FR2023005676
Authority / Receiving Office
FR · FR
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2023-06-06
Publication Date
2024-12-13
Estimated Expiration
2043-06-06

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing refillable cosmetic product packaging assemblies suffer from issues such as axial play and accidental extraction of refill containers due to inadequate axial retention mechanisms, which affect user perception and reliability.

Method used

A refillable assembly with a flexible tab and complementary latching elements, combined with an axial retaining ring, ensures stable axial retention and prevents unexpected extraction by allowing controlled manual removal through a locking/unlocking mechanism.

Benefits of technology

The solution provides improved stability and reliability in retaining the refill container, enhancing user experience and reducing the risk of accidental extraction.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

Refillable assembly (1) for packaging a product, in particular cosmetic, extending axially along a longitudinal axis (X-X') and comprising at least one refilling device (10) including a container (2, 3) delimiting an internal volume (V) intended to receive the product and a casing assembly (100) delimiting an internal space (E) for receiving the refilling device (10).The refillable assembly includes an axial retention device for the container (2, 3) relative to the casing assembly (100), comprising at least one flexible tab (123) extending axially along the longitudinal axis (X-X') of the refillable packaging assembly (1) and comprising an internal snap-in element (126) and at least one complementary external snap-in element (37) carried by the container (2, 3) and intended to cooperate with an internal snap-in element (126) of the flexible tab (123) of the casing assembly (100) in an axial retention position of the container (2, 3) relative to the casing assembly (100). Figure for the abbreviation: Fig 4.
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Description

Title of the invention: Refillable assembly for packaging a cosmetic product comprising a refill device and a device for axially retaining said refill device in a packaging assembly

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of refillable assemblies for packaging a product, in particular a cosmetic product.

[0002] For the purposes of the present invention, the term “cosmetic product” means in particular a product as defined in Regulation (EC) No. 1223 / 2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2009 relating to cosmetic products.

[0003] More particularly, the invention relates to a refillable assembly for packaging a product comprising a container containing a product and an assembly for covering said container, in which the container is mounted.

[0004] The container forms a refill suitable for replacement when the product it contains is exhausted.

[0005] The proposal of eco-responsible, environmentally friendly solutions, the design and development of which take environmental issues into account, is becoming a major concern to help meet global challenges.

[0006] It is therefore essential to design products that reduce the quantity of materials used and / or replace them with more environmentally friendly materials and / or use recyclable materials in order to reduce the carbon footprint of the product.

[0007] In this context, it is important to develop packaging that generates less waste, in particular optimized for the quantity of products transported, in particular by redesigning and / or resizing them in order to reduce the volume and weight of the quantity of packaging.

[0008] The objective is to offer reusable eco-responsible containers, particularly those that can be refilled at home or in stores, in order to reduce the carbon footprint of packaging.

[0009] The present invention is part of this approach to developing refillable packaging for the field of cosmetic products, and in particular care or makeup products, in particular keratin fibers, in particular eyelashes and / or eyebrows, such as mascara, a lip makeup product, such as lipstick or gloss, or a skin makeup product, such as a complexion correction product, applied to localized areas of the face.

[0010] In a classic manner, whether in the field of product packaging cosmetics or other products, the refill containers come in the form of minimalist sets, suitable for being combined with decorative elements to form a ready-to-use packaging set and offering the user optimal performance, particularly in terms of aesthetics and ergonomics of use.

[0011] Document JP-B2-3638756 is known, which describes a refill container mounted in a covering element and held axially in said covering element by a ring integral in rotation with the covering element. Said ring comprises two projecting portions extending radially inwards and each intended to be placed selectively opposite a shoulder provided on the refill container in an axial holding position and thus prevent its axial extraction from the covering element and opposite a flat provided on the shoulder of the container to allow its axial extraction from the covering element.

[0012] Such a solution makes it easy to replace the refill container.

[0013] However, axial play may remain between the shoulder of the refill-forming container and the axial holding ring when said container is held axially in the covering element, which may impair the perception of quality of the assembly.

[0014] Furthermore, in the event of accidental rotation of the axial retaining ring, there is a significant risk of unexpected axial extraction of the refill container from the covering element.

[0015] Document CN217285031 is also known, which proposes an axial holding ring for a refill container in a covering element comprising a press stud intended to cooperate with a notch provided on the refill container in an axial holding position. In order to separate the refill container from the covering element, the user presses radially on the press stud in order to elastically deform the axial holding ring and to disengage said press stud from the notch of the refill container.

[0016] However, when the refill container is separated from the covering element, the axial retaining ring is also separated, so that there is a risk of loss of said ring.

[0017] Furthermore, in the event of accidental pressing of the pressure button, there is a significant risk of unwanted axial extraction of the refill container from the covering element.

[0018] Although offering a refillability solution for refillable cosmetic product packaging assemblies, the design of the axial holding rings according to these documents is not entirely satisfactory.

[0019] The present invention therefore aims to overcome the above drawbacks and to improve the refillable product packaging assemblies comprising a refill container and a covering element for the purpose of improving the axial retention of said refill container relative to the covering element in a position of use of the product and of facilitating the extraction of the refill container from the covering element in the event of replacement of said refill container.

[0020] Another objective of the invention is to improve the user's perception of quality and to avoid any unexpected extraction of the refill container.

[0021] The subject of the invention is a rechargeable assembly for packaging a product, in particular a cosmetic product, extending axially along a longitudinal axis and comprising at least: - a refill device comprising a container or bottle delimiting an internal volume intended to receive the product, and - a set of coverings delimiting an internal space for receiving the device forming a refill.

[0022] The refillable packaging assembly comprises a device for axially retaining the container relative to the covering assembly comprising: - at least one flexible tab extending axially along the longitudinal axis of the refillable packaging assembly and comprising an internal snap-fastening element; and - at least one external complementary snap-fastening element carried by the container and intended to cooperate with an internal snap-fastening element of the flexible tab of the covering assembly in a position for axially retaining the container relative to the covering assembly.

[0023] The flexible tab is elastically deformable in the radial direction between an initial position in which said flexible tab extends axially along a first axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and a deformed position in which said flexible tab extends along a second axis forming an angle with the longitudinal axis.

[0024] By "flexible" or "elastically deformable" is meant any member capable of deforming under the action of an exerted stress, for example the crossing of the latching elements resulting from an extraction force applied to the device forming a refill and tending to extract the latter from the covering assembly, and of returning to its initial shape after the cessation of said stress.

[0025] The axial retaining device makes it possible to ensure the axial retention of the container of the refill-forming device relative to the covering assembly.

[0026] By “product” is meant a fluid or semi-fluid product, such as for example a care or makeup product, in particular lip makeup, or a care or makeup product for the epidermis of a user.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the device for axially retaining the container relative to the covering assembly comprises at least two flexible tabs circumferentially distributed, for example regularly or not, around the covering assembly.

[0028] Preferably, the two flexible legs are diametrically opposed.

[0029] The axial maintenance of the container of the refill forming device relative to the covering assembly via at least two flexible legs makes it possible to improve the stability of said axial support.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the complementary external snap-fastening element provided on the container may be unique, for example in the form of a circumferential rib or groove and cooperate with a single flexible tab or a plurality of flexible tabs.

[0031] Generally, the complementary external snap-fastening element may be in the form of a rib or groove that is continuous or discontinuous in the circumferential direction. In the latter case, the rib or groove segments are adapted to cooperate with an internal snap-fastening element of a corresponding flexible tab.

[0032] Advantageously, the refillable packaging assembly further comprises a device for locking / unlocking the device for axially retaining the container relative to the covering assembly.

[0033] Alternatively, it could be provided that the rechargeable packaging assembly is devoid of such a locking / unlocking device.

[0034] Advantageously, the locking / unlocking device comprises an axial holding ring, axially secured to the covering assembly and comprising at least one radial projection extending radially inwards.

[0035] The axial retaining ring is rotatable about the longitudinal axis relative to the covering assembly between a locked position, in which the radial projection is located at the rear in the radial direction of the flexible tab provided with an internal latching element to block the bending of said tab in the radial direction and thus prevent the manual extraction of the container from the covering assembly and an unlocked position, in which the radial projection is angularly offset from the flexible tab provided with an internal latching element to allow the bending of said flexible tab in the radial direction and thus allow the manual extraction of the container from the covering assembly by means of an axial extraction force applied to said container, causing the radial separation of the flexible tab provided with an internal latching element.

[0036] The locking / unlocking device makes it possible to guarantee the reliability of the axial retention of the rechargeable device in the cladding assembly.

[0037] The axial retaining device makes it possible to improve the quality of the axial retention of the device forming a refill in the cladding assembly, advantageously without play while limiting the risk of unexpected extraction of the device forming a refill in the event of accidental rotation of the axial retaining ring.

[0038] The axial retaining ring is irremovable, integral in rotation with the covering assembly, in particular the stirrup.

[0039] Alternatively, a different number of radial projections of the axial retaining ring could be provided.

[0040] Generally, the number of radial projections of the axial retaining ring corresponds to the number of flexible tabs provided with an internal snap-fastening element.

[0041] Advantageously, the axial retaining ring is rigid, that is to say it is not elastically deformable.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the covering assembly comprises a closed lower end forming a bottom, an open upper end, opposite the bottom, provided with a neck and allowing access to the internal space for receiving the container and a peripheral side wall extending between the bottom and the open upper end.

[0043] For example, the flexible tab is carried by the neck of the covering assembly. In the case where there are several flexible tabs, each of the flexible tabs is carried by the neck of the covering assembly.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the neck of the covering assembly comprises two groups of three flexible tabs, said flexible tabs of each group being spaced apart by a first circumferential clearance and the two groups being spaced apart from each other by a second circumferential clearance.

[0045] For example, the first circumferential clearance is less than or equal to the second circumferential clearance.

[0046] For example, the second circumferential clearance is between the angular range of a flexible tab and the angular range of a flexible tab plus two first circumferential clearances.

[0047] Alternatively, it could be provided that the neck of the covering assembly comprises at least three circumferentially flexible tabs, preferably regularly, spaced from one another.

[0048] Advantageously, at least one flexible leg of each group of three flexible legs is provided with an internal snap-fastening element.

[0049] Alternatively, at least two flexible legs of each group of three flexible legs are each provided with an internal snap-in element.

[0050] The internal snap-in element is, for example, located at the upper free end of the flexible tab.

[0051] For example, the two flexible legs located at the circumferential ends of each group of three flexible legs are each provided with an element internal snap-in.

[0052] For example, the internal snap-fastening element carried by the flexible tab is an internal bead projecting radially inward, and the complementary snap-fastening element carried by the container is an external bead projecting radially outward or a groove.

[0053] Thus, in the case of a plurality of flexible tabs, the neck of the covering assembly comprises a discontinuous snap-fastening groove in the circumferential direction, i.e. formed from a plurality of snap-fastening beads separated from each other in the circumferential direction and housed axially under a complementary snap-fastening bead or in a complementary snap-fastening groove, carried by the container.

[0054] The complementary snap-on bead or the complementary snap-on groove may be annular or discontinuous in the circumferential direction.

[0055] Advantageously, the internal snap-fastening elements carried by the flexible tabs are circumferentially regularly distributed.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the axial retaining ring comprises at least one radial rib and the neck of the covering assembly comprises at least one external snap-fastening element intended to cooperate with said radial rib to axially secure said ring to the covering assembly.

[0057] According to one embodiment, at least one flexible leg of each group of flexible legs comprises an external snap-fastening element.

[0058] For example, the external snap-fastening element comprises a bead projecting radially outwards and a snap-fastening groove located axially directly under said bead and intended to cooperate with the radial rib provided on the axial retaining ring.

[0059] For example, an external snap-fit ​​element extends into each of the second circumferential clearances.

[0060] Alternatively, it could be provided that the second circumferential clearances are devoid of any flexible tab or internal snap-fastening element.

[0061] For example, the external snap-on elements are carried or not by the same flexible tabs as those carrying the internal snap-on elements.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the axial retaining ring comprises, on its internal wall, at least one axial rib extending axially at least over a portion of the height of the axial retaining ring.

[0063] According to another embodiment, the axial retaining ring comprises, on its internal wall, at least two axial ribs extending axially at least over a portion of the height of the axial retaining ring and each intended to be inserted between two flexible tabs in the locked position of the ring, in particular in the first set. circumferential, thus forming a tactile and / or audible indication device for the positioning of the ring, in particular in the locked position.

[0064] For example, the axial ribs are located circumferentially opposite each other.

[0065] For example, an axial rib is circumferentially located between two radial projections.

[0066] For example, the axial ribs have a semi-circular section so that they can be easily crossed by the flexible tab when the ring rotates.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the axial retaining ring comprises, on its internal wall, at least one circumferential stop extending radially inwards and intended to come into circumferential abutment against the flexible tab in the locked position of the ring, thus forming a circumferential stop device in the locked position.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the axial retaining ring comprises, on its internal wall, at least two circumferential stops extending radially inwards and each intended to come into circumferential support against one of the flexible tabs in the locked position of the ring, in particular to be inserted into the second circumferential clearance.

[0069] For example, the two circumferential stops are located circumferentially opposite each other.

[0070] For example, a circumferential stop is circumferentially located between two radial projections.

[0071] Advantageously, the circumferential stops and the axial ribs are arranged alternately and circumferentially, preferably regularly, spaced from one another.

[0072] For example, the axial retaining ring comprises an external wall, for example of polygonal section, and an internal wall of circular section.

[0073] Alternatively, other cross-sectional shapes of the external wall of the axial retaining ring could be provided, such as a circular, ovoid, oblong, polygonal shape, for example square or rectangular, in particular with rounded corners, or other.

[0074] The cross-section of the outer wall of the axial retaining ring may be identical and of the same dimension as the cross-section of the covering case so as not to form radial protrusions. This limits the risk of unexpected actuation of the axial retaining ring.

[0075] Conversely, the section of the external wall of the axial retaining ring may be different and / or of different dimensions than the section of the covering case, in order to form one or more radial protuberances on the axial retaining ring projecting from the covering case, in order to facilitate gripping and actuation of the ring. axial support.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the container of the refill-forming device comprises a main body extending along the longitudinal axis and an attached element, fixed to the main body and defining a neck and a shoulder of the container.

[0077] Alternatively, it could be provided that the main body and the added element form a single part of the container.

[0078] Generally, the refill device comprises a side wall extending between the bottom and the neck and connected to the latter via the shoulder.

[0079] By "shoulder" is meant any surface substantially normal to the elevation axis of a cylindrical part, here the longitudinal axis of the container, resulting from a sudden variation in diameter, or more generally in dimension in the radial direction, orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.

[0080] Advantageously, the main body of the container is provided with a closed lower end forming a bottom and an open upper end, opposite the lower end, provided with an opening allowing access to the internal volume for receiving the product.

[0081] The open end is, for example, connected to the bottom by a step extending inwardly in the radial direction and a groove located axially between the step and the open end.

[0082] The insert is, for example, fixed at the open end of the main body.

[0083] For example, the insert includes a sealing skirt mounted by the open end in the main body and a fixing skirt extending radially around the sealing skirt. The fixing skirt forms the side wall of the insert.

[0084] The fixing skirt is connected to the neck via the shoulder and defines with the sealing skirt, an annular space for receiving the portion of the main body extending between the recess and the open end.

[0085] The fixing and the securing in translation along and in rotation around the longitudinal axis of the element attached to the main body is preferably ensured by the cooperation of the groove, in particular discontinuous in the circumferential direction, that is to say formed of a plurality of cavities separated from each other in the circumferential direction, and of a godron, in particular discontinuous in the circumferential direction, that is to say formed of a plurality of bosses separated from each other in the circumferential direction and received in the corresponding cavities of the groove.

[0086] The side wall of the bottle is defined by the side wall of the main body located between the bottom and the recess, and by the attachment skirt of the added element. preferably, the step and the fixing skirt are dimensioned so that the outer surface of the side wall of the main body located between the bottom and the step is flush with the outer surface of the fixing skirt, when the insert is fixed to the main body.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the covering assembly comprises a covering case and a mounting support or bracket, fixed to the covering case and defining the neck and in particular the shoulder of the covering assembly.

[0088] Alternatively, it could be provided that the covering case and the mounting bracket form a single piece.

[0089] For example, the dressing case is provided with a closed lower end forming a bottom and an open upper end, opposite the lower end, provided with an opening allowing access to an internal space for receiving the container, the mounting bracket being fixed at the open end of the dressing case.

[0090] Advantageously, the open end is connected to the bottom by a peripheral wall of the covering assembly and in which said peripheral wall comprises, on its internal surface, an axial groove extending axially from the open end and intended to cooperate with a radial collar provided at the lower end of the mounting bracket.

[0091] According to a particular arrangement, the peripheral wall of the covering assembly has at least one circumferential window or opening passing through, allowing the user to view a portion of the container of the refill-forming device through the covering assembly when it is received therein.

[0092] For example, the mounting bracket is fixed to the covering case by any suitable means, for example, by gluing, screwing or snap-fastening.

[0093] For example, the peripheral wall of the mounting bracket is discontinuous and includes at least one flexible tab extending axially from the radial collar.

[0094] The flexible tab extends axially from the radial collar and is flexible in the radial direction, i.e. capable of deforming radially in an elastic manner under the action of an external stress, here the crossing of a complementary snap-fastening element provided on the container, in particular the added element, resulting from an extraction force applied to the refill-forming device and tending to extract the latter outside the covering assembly, and of returning to its initial position after the external stress has stopped.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the container, in particular the added element, further comprises at least one rotation locking element, for example in the form of two axial tabs, intended to be inserted circumferentially between two flexible tabs, or groups of flexible tabs, in particular in said second circumferential clearance, to lock the rotation of the container relative to the covering assembly, especially to the mounting bracket.

[0096] Thus, the fixing and the securing in translation along and in rotation around the longitudinal axis of the element attached to the mounting bracket is, in the illustrated embodiment, ensured by the cooperation of the snap-on beads, and by the cooperation of the axial tabs each with a second circumferential clearance.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the refill-forming device comprises a closure element mounted on the container and closing access to the internal volume.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the closure element belongs to a cosmetic product application subassembly, further comprising an application member extending into the internal volume of the container when the closure element closes the container and a rod connecting the closure element and the application member.

[0099] For example, the neck of the refill device is provided with an external thread in the radial direction cooperating with an internal thread provided on the closure element.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the packaging assembly further comprises a cover for covering and gripping the device forming a refill.

[0101] For example, the closure element has a central axis coinciding with the longitudinal axis of the container when the closure element closes the latter and comprises means for securing in translation along the central axis and means for securing in rotation around the central axis to the covering and gripping cover.

[0102] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a method for recharging a refillable cosmetic product packaging assembly as described above, comprising at least the steps of: - apply an axial extraction force outwards in order to cause the flexible tab provided with an internal snap-fastening element to move away from the covering assembly, in particular from the mounting bracket, under the effect of the complementary external snap-fastening element provided on the container, in order to extract, preferably manually, said container from the used refill-forming device from the covering assembly; - provide a new refill device; and - insert and fix said new refill-forming device in the internal space of the covering assembly, until the axial retaining device formed by the cooperation between the internal snap-fastening element of the covering assembly and the complementary external snap-fastening element provided on the container snaps into place.

[0103] Advantageously, the refillable packaging assembly comprises an axial holding ring axially secured to the covering assembly and comprising at least one radial projection extending radially inwards, said ring being movable in rotation relative to the covering assembly. The refilling method then advantageously comprises, before the step of applying an axial withdrawal force, a step consisting of: - rotating the axial retaining ring in a first direction of rotation until the radial projection of said ring is angularly offset from the flexible tab provided with the internal snap-fastening element of the covering assembly; and, then advantageously comprising, after the step of inserting and fixing a new refill-forming device, a step consisting of: - rotating the axial retaining ring in a second direction of rotation, opposite to the first direction of rotation, until the radial projection of said ring is located radially behind the flexible tab provided with the internal latching element and thus locking the axial retaining device in the axial retaining or latching position.

[0104] According to a particular arrangement, the rechargeable assembly further comprises a covering and gripping cover for the refill-forming device. The refilling method then advantageously comprises, preferably before the step of rotating the axial holding ring in the first direction of rotation, a step consisting of removing a covering and gripping cover from a closure element belonging to the used refill-forming device, and then comprising, preferably after the step of rotating the axial holding ring in the second direction of rotation, a step consisting of repositioning the covering and gripping cover on the new refill-forming device which equipped the used refill-forming device.

[0105] The present invention will be better understood upon studying the detailed description of embodiments, taken as non-limiting examples and illustrated by the appended drawings, in which:

[0106] [Fig.l] is a perspective view of a refillable product packaging assembly according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0107] [Fig.2] is an exploded perspective view of the refillable packaging assembly of [Fig.l];

[0108] [Fig.2A] is a perspective view of the mounting bracket belonging to the dressing assembly of the rechargeable packaging assembly of [Fig.2];

[0109] [Fig.3] represents in an overall front view the refillable cosmetic product packaging assembly of [Fig.l], on which the cover has been cut longitudinally to reveal the elements housed within it;

[0110] [Fig.4], [Fig.5] are views of the refillable packaging assembly of [Fig.3] in longitudinal section respectively along a first section plane IV-IV and along a second section plane VV; [YES] [Fig.6], [Fig.7] are exploded sectional views of [Fig.3] and [Fig.4] respectively, in which the hood has been omitted for clarity;

[0112] [Fig.8A] is a sectional view along section plane 8A-8A of [Fig.7] of the axial retaining ring;

[0113] [Fig.8B] is a bottom view of the axial retaining ring of the refillable packaging assembly of [Fig.l];

[0114] [Fig.9] is a front view of the device forming a refill of the rechargeable packaging assembly of [Fig.l];

[0115] [Fig. 10], [Fig. 11], [Fig. 12] and [Fig. 13] illustrate in front view different successive positions illustrating the screwing of the closure element onto the neck of the refill device, [Fig. 13] corresponding to the position in which the closure element reaches the end of its screwing stroke and closes the neck of the refill device, and in which the tab of the anti-opening device is in the position blocking the rotation of the closure element relative to the neck of the refill device in the unscrewing direction;

[0116] [Fig. 14] is a longitudinal sectional view of the refill device according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0117] [Fig. 15] is a sectional view of a refillable assembly for packaging a product according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0118] [Fig. 16] is an exploded perspective view of the refillable packaging assembly of [Fig. 15];

[0119] [Fig. 17] is a view of the refillable packaging assembly of [Fig. 15] in longitudinal section; and

[0120] [Fig.l8A], [Fig.l8B], [Fig.l8C], [Fig.l8D] and [Fig.l8E] illustrate in front view the successive steps of replacing the device forming a refill.

[0121] In the remainder of the description, we consider an orthonormal basis X, Y, Z, with Z corresponding to an elongation axis representing the vertical direction in which we find:

[0122] - a longitudinal axis X, horizontal and extending from left to right on [Fig.5];

[0123] - a transverse axis Y, horizontal, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X and extending from front to back on [Fig.5]; and

[0124] - a vertical axis Z, orthogonal to the longitudinal axes X and transverse Y and extending from bottom to top on [Fig.5].

[0125] The expressions "upper" and "lower" refer to the upper part and the lower part of the figures, in the assembled position of the rechargeable assembly.

[0126] As illustrated in Figures 1 to 7, a refillable assembly 1 for packaging a product extends axially along an axis X-X' assumed to be vertical in [Fig.l].

[0127] The rechargeable assembly 1 for packaging a product comprises a refill device 10 and a covering assembly 100 delimiting an internal space E for receiving the refill device 10.

[0128] The refill device 10 comprises a container 2, 3 or bottle or reservoir delimiting an internal volume V intended to contain a product, in particular a cosmetic product, and a closure element 4, illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 in the closure position of the container 2, 3.

[0129] By “product” is meant a fluid or semi-fluid product, such as for example a care or makeup product, in particular lip makeup, or a care or makeup product for the epidermis of a user.

[0130] Such a refill device 10 is intended to be associated with the dressing assembly 100 to form the refillable cosmetic product packaging assembly 1 and to be able to be replaced at the end of its life by a new refill device, as will be described in more detail below.

[0131] As illustrated, and in a non-limiting manner, the refillable assembly 1 for packaging a product comprises a cover 8, 9 for covering and gripping the device forming a refill 10.

[0132] In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the refill-forming device 10 comprises a main body 2 extending along the longitudinal axis X-X' and an added element 3, fixed to the main body 2 and defining a neck 30 and a shoulder 31 of the container 2, 3.

[0133] Alternatively, it could be provided that the main body 2 and the added element 3 form a single piece.

[0134] As illustrated in detail in Figures 1 to 7, the main body 2 of the container is provided with a closed lower end forming a bottom 20 and an open upper end 22, opposite the lower end 20, provided with an opening O allowing access to the internal volume V for receiving the product.

[0135] Furthermore, and as can be seen in particular in [Fig.2], the neck 30 of the refill-forming device 10 is provided with an external thread 32 in the radial direction.

[0136] In the illustrated embodiment, the insert 3 is fixed at the open end 22 of the main body 2.

[0137] Generally, the refill device 10 comprises a side wall 21, 33 extending between the bottom 20 and the neck 30 and connected to the latter via the shoulder 31.

[0138] By "shoulder" is meant any surface substantially normal to the elevation axis of a cylindrical part, here the longitudinal axis X-X' of the bottle, resulting from a sudden variation in diameter, or more generally in dimension in the radial direction, orthogonal to the longitudinal axis X-X'.

[0139] The open end 22 is connected to the bottom 20 by a step 23 extending inwardly in the radial direction and a groove 24 located axially between the step 23 and the open end 22.

[0140] The insert 3 comprises a sealing skirt 34 mounted by the open end 22 in the main body 2 and a fixing skirt 36 extending radially around the sealing skirt 34. The fixing skirt 36 forms the side wall 33 of the insert 3.

[0141] The fixing skirt 36 is connected to the neck 30 via the shoulder 31 and defines with the sealing skirt 34, an annular space for receiving the portion of the main body 2 extending between the recess 23 and the open end 22.

[0142] The fixing and the securing in translation along and in rotation around the longitudinal axis X-X' of the added element 3 on the main body 2 are, in the illustrated embodiment, ensured by the cooperation of the groove 24, in particular discontinuous in the circumferential direction, that is to say formed of a plurality of cavities separated from each other in the circumferential direction, and of a godron 35, in particular discontinuous in the circumferential direction, that is to say formed of a plurality of bosses separated from each other in the circumferential direction and received in the corresponding cavities of the groove 24.

[0143] Those skilled in the art may, however, provide other solutions for securing in translation along and in rotation around the longitudinal axis X-X' of the added element 3 on the main body 2, such as the cooperation of a continuous groove in the circumferential direction provided on the main body 2 and a continuous gadroon in the circumferential direction provided on the added element 3 to ensure the axial retention of the added element 3 on the main body 2, combined with the cooperation of at least one and preferably a plurality of axial grooves provided on the main body 2, being regularly distributed around the longitudinal axis X-X', and of at least one and preferably a plurality of axial ribs provided on the added element 3 to ensure the coupling in rotation around the longitudinal axis X-X' of the added element 3 and the main body 2. Such axial grooves and axial ribs may in particular together form a spline system making it possible to ensure rotational coupling around the longitudinal axis X-X' of the added element 3 and the main body 2.

[0144] Furthermore, in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the side wall of the container is defined by the side wall 21 of the main body 2 located between the bottom 20 and the recess 23, and by the fixing skirt 36 of the added element 3. Preferably, the recess 23 and the fixing skirt 36 are dimensioned so that the outer surface of the side wall 21 of the main body 2 located between the bottom 20 and the recess 23 is flush with the outer surface of the fixing skirt 36, when the added element 3 is fixed to the main body 2.

[0145] As illustrated, the attachment skirt 36 includes a bead or rib external snap-fastener 37 projecting radially from the external surface of said skirt 36 towards the outside.

[0146] The external snap-on bead 37 may be continuous or discontinuous and is configured to cooperate with an internal snap-on element 126 of the trim assembly 100.

[0147] The refill device 10 according to the invention further comprises a closure element 4 for the container 2, 3.

[0148] As can be seen in particular in Figures 2 to 7 and 9, the closure element 4 has a plate 40 extending transversely to the opening O of the neck 30 when the closure element 4 closes the container 2, 3, as illustrated in these figures.

[0149] The closure element 4 also has a fixing skirt 41 raised from the plate 40, provided with an internal thread 42 in the radial direction adapted to cooperate with the external thread 32 of the neck 30 when the closure element 4 closes the container 2, 3.

[0150] As appears in particular in Figures 2 to 7, the fixing skirt 41 of the closure element 4 has a front edge 43 facing the shoulder 31 along the longitudinal axis X-X' when the closure element 4 closes the container 2, 3.

[0151] The closure element 4 further has a sealing skirt 46 extending inside the fixing skirt 41 in the radial direction while being coaxial with the latter and adapted to cooperate with the inner wall of the neck 30 of the container 2, 3 to ensure the sealing of the refill-forming device 10 according to the invention when the closure element 4 closes the container 2, 3.

[0152] In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, and in a non-limiting manner, the closure element 4 belongs to a cosmetic product application subassembly, also designated by the terminology of a dipping applicator, further comprising an application member 6 extending into the internal volume V of the container 2, 3 when the closure element 4 closes the container 2, 3 and a rod 5 connecting the closure element 4 and the application member 6. Such an application subassembly is particularly intended for the precise application by means of the application member 6 of a cosmetic product contained in the internal volume V of the container 2, 3 on relatively small body areas of a user, such as the application of a makeup product for keratin fibers, in particular eyelashes and / or eyebrows, such as mascara, a lip makeup product, such as lipstick or gloss, or a skin makeup product, such as a complexion correction product, applied to localized areas of the face.

[0153] In order to benefit from an optimal user experience, particularly in terms of ergonomics and application precision, the application subassembly 4 is connected, in a removable manner, to the covering and gripping cover 8, 9, as will be described in more detail below.

[0154] The closure element 4 has a central axis coinciding with the longitudinal axis X-X' of the container 2, 3 when the closure element 4 closes the latter and comprises means for securing in translation along the central axis and means for securing in rotation around the central axis to a covering and gripping cover 8, 9.

[0155] As can be seen in particular in Figures 2 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, the means for securing in translation along the central axis comprise a groove 44 formed on an outer surface in the radial direction of the fixing skirt 41 of the closure element 4. This groove 44, for example continuous in the circumferential direction, is adapted to receive a gadroon 94, continuous or preferably discontinuous in the circumferential direction, formed on an inner surface in the radial direction of the covering and gripping cover 8, 9.

[0156] Furthermore, and as can be seen in particular in FIGS. 4 to 7, the means for securing in rotation around the central axis comprise a housing 45 of non-circular cross-section formed on the plate 40 of the closure element 4. As seen in these figures 2 to 7, the housing 45 has a flat to define a non-circular cross-section. This housing 45 of non-circular cross-section is adapted to receive a pin 95 of complementary cross-section provided on the covering and gripping cover 8, 9.

[0157] The covering and gripping cover 8, 9 defines a housing L for receiving the closing element 4.

[0158] The covering and gripping cover 8, 9 has a bottom 80, a peripheral wall 81 raised from the bottom 80 and a front edge 93 at least partially facing the shoulder 31 of the container 2, 3 along the longitudinal axis X-X' when the covering and gripping cover 8, 9 receives the element within it sealing 4 sealing the container 2, 3.

[0159] The covering and gripping cover 8, 9 has means for securing in translation along the central axis of the closure element and complementary means for securing in rotation around the central axis of the closure element 4, adapted to cooperate with complementary means provided on the closure element 4 to ensure the securing in rotation and in translation of the closure element 4 and the covering and gripping cover 4 around the central axis.

[0160] In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the covering and gripping cover is made in two parts and comprises an internal element, here forming a rod holder 9, and an external element, here forming a covering tube 8, housing the internal element 9 and secured to it.

[0161] The inner element 9 comprises an outer cylindrical surface 9a in contact with an inner cylindrical surface 8a of the outer element 8.

[0162] The fixing of the internal element 9 inside the external element 8 is, for example, carried out by clamping and / or by means of a layer of glue.

[0163] As illustrated in [Fig. 5], and in a non-limiting manner, the inner cylindrical surface 8a of the outer element 8 comprises a plurality of longitudinal grooves or striations 8b parallel to each other and delimiting between them longitudinal ribs configured to deform during insertion of the inner element 9 into the outer element 8 and ensure the fixing by clamping of the inner element 9 relative to the outer element 8.

[0164] Alternatively, it could be provided that it is the outer cylindrical surface 9a of the inner element 9 which comprises a plurality of longitudinal grooves or striations or that both the inner element 8 and the outer element 9 comprise such grooves.

[0165] As visible in Figures 4 to 7, the internal element 9 of the covering and gripping cover has a ridge 94 formed on its radially inner surface and received inside the groove 44 of the closure element 4 to ensure axial retention along the central axis of the covering and gripping cover 8, 9 on the closure element 4, the groove 44 and the ridge 94 forming the complementary means of securing in translation along the central axis of the covering and gripping cover 8, 9 and the closure element 4.

[0166] Furthermore, and as visible in Figures 4 to 7, the internal element 9 of the covering and gripping cover has a pin 95 of cross section complementary to the housing 45 of non-circular cross section provided on the plate 40 of the closure element 4. When the covering and gripping cover 8, 9 is placed on the closure element 4, the pin 95 is inserted inside the housing 45 and forms with it the complementary means of securing in rotation around the central axis of the covering and gripping cover 8, 9 and of the closing element 4.

[0167] The trim assembly 100 comprises a trim case 101 and a mounting bracket or yoke 102, fixed to the trim case 101 and defining a neck 103 and a shoulder 104 of the trim assembly 100.

[0168] Alternatively, it could be provided that the covering case 101 and the mounting bracket 102 form a single piece.

[0169] As illustrated in detail in Figures 2 to 7, the covering case 101 is provided with a closed lower end forming a bottom 110 and an open upper end 112, opposite the lower end 110, provided with an opening 02 allowing access to an internal space E for receiving the container 2, 3.

[0170] The bottom 20 of the refill-forming device 10 is, here, axially spaced from the bottom 110 of the covering assembly 100.

[0171] In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting bracket 102 is secured at the open end 112 of the trim case 101.

[0172] Generally, the covering assembly 100 comprises a peripheral side wall 111, 121 extending between the bottom 110 and the neck 103 and connected to the latter via the shoulder 104.

[0173] The open end 112 is connected to the bottom 110 by the peripheral wall 111.

[0174] The peripheral wall 111 of the case 101 comprises, on its internal surface, an axial groove 113 extending axially from the open end 112 and intended to cooperate with a radial collar 122 provided at the lower end of the mounting bracket 102.

[0175] The mounting bracket 102 is fixed to the covering case 101 by any suitable means, for example, by gluing, screwing or snap-fastening.

[0176] As seen in detail in Figures 2 to 7, the peripheral wall 121 of the mounting bracket 102 is discontinuous and comprises a plurality of flexible legs 123 extending axially from the radial collar 122 and spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction.

[0177] Alternatively, it could be provided that the peripheral wall 121 of the mounting bracket 102 comprises only one flexible tab 123.

[0178] In the example illustrated in [Fig.2A], the peripheral wall 121 of the mounting bracket 102 comprises two groups of three flexible legs 123a, 123b, the legs 123 of each group 123a, 123b being spaced apart by a first circumferential clearance J1 and the two groups being spaced apart from each other by a second circumferential clearance J2. The first circumferential clearance J1 is less than the second circumferential clearance J2.

[0179] For example, the second circumferential clearance J2 is between the angular range of a flexible tab and the angular range of a flexible tab plus two first circumferential games Jl.

[0180] Alternatively, it could be provided that the peripheral wall 121 comprises at least three circumferentially flexible tabs, preferably regularly, spaced from one another.

[0181] As illustrated, each flexible tab of each group of tabs comprises an external snap-fastening element 124, here a bead projecting radially outwards, delimiting with the radial collar 122, a snap-fastening groove 125 intended to cooperate with a radial rib 151 provided on an axial retaining ring 105.

[0182] Generally, at least one flexible tab 123 of the mounting bracket 102 comprises an external snap-fastening element 124, 125 intended to cooperate with a complementary snap-fastening element 151, here a radial rib, discontinuous or continuous, provided on the axial holding ring 105 to axially secure said ring 105 to the covering assembly 100.

[0183] In the illustrated example, an external snap-fastening element 124 extends into each of the second circumferential sets J2. Alternatively, it could be provided that the second circumferential sets J2 are devoid of any flexible tab or external or internal snap-fastening element.

[0184] As illustrated, two of the flexible legs of each group of legs comprise, at their upper free end, an internal snap-fastening element 126, here an internal bead projecting radially inwards, intended to be housed at the rear of the external complementary snap-fastening bead or rib 37 provided on the added element 3, in particular on the fixing skirt 36.

[0185] The internal snap-fastening elements 126 are circumferentially regularly distributed.

[0186] It could be provided that the internal snap-fastening elements 126 are provided or not on the same flexible tabs as those carrying the external snap-fastening elements 124, 125.

[0187] Generally, at least one flexible tab 123 of the mounting bracket 102 comprises an internal snap-fastening element 126 intended to cooperate with an external complementary snap-fastening element 37 provided on the added element 3 to axially retain said added element 3 on the covering assembly 100.

[0188] In other words, the refillable packaging assembly 1 comprises a device for axially retaining the refill-forming container 2, 3 relative to the covering assembly 100 implementing at least one internal snap-fastening element 126 carried by a flexible tab 123 of the covering assembly 100 and a complementary external snap-fastening element 37 carried by the container 2, 3.

[0189] Preferably, the refillable packaging assembly 1 comprises a device for axially retaining the refill-forming container 2, 3 relative to the assembly cladding assembly 100 implementing at least two internal snap-fastening elements 126 each carried by a flexible tab 123 of the cladding assembly 100 and one or more complementary external snap-fastening elements 37 carried by the container 2, 3.

[0190] The complementary external snap-fastening elements 37 carried by the container 2, 3 are here snap-fastening beads, circumferentially regularly distributed around the covering assembly 100 and separated by circumferential spaces.

[0191] The snap-fastening tabs 123 extend axially from the radial collar 122 and are flexible in the radial direction, i.e. capable of deforming radially in an elastic manner under the action of an external stress, here the crossing of a complementary snap-fastening element 37 provided on the added element 3 resulting from an extraction force applied to the refill-forming device 2, 3 and tending to extract the latter outside the covering assembly 100, and of returning to its initial position after the external stress has stopped.

[0192] The axial retaining device makes it possible to ensure the axial retention of the container 2, 3 relative to the covering assembly 100.

[0193] The added element 3 further comprises a rotation locking element, here two axial tabs 38 extending axially from the shoulder 31 downwards and extending over an angular range less than or equal to the angular range of the second circumferential clearance J2 of the mounting bracket 102 in order to be inserted circumferentially into said second clearance J2 and to lock the rotation of the added element 3 relative to the mounting bracket 102 and thus to the covering assembly 100.

[0194] The fixing and securing in translation along and in rotation around the longitudinal axis X-X' of the added element 3 on the mounting bracket 102 is, in the illustrated embodiment, ensured by the cooperation of the external 37 and internal 126 snap-fastening beads, and by the cooperation of the axial tabs 38 each with the tabs 123 defining the second circumferential clearance J2.

[0195] In the illustrated embodiment, the packaging assembly 1 comprises a device for locking / unlocking the axial retention device of the container 2, 3 relative to the covering assembly 100.

[0196] Alternatively, it could be provided that the rechargeable packaging assembly 1 is devoid of such a locking / unlocking device.

[0197] The locking / unlocking device implements the axial holding ring 105, axially secured to the covering assembly 100 and comprising, here, radial projections 152, here four in number, extending radially inwards, and circumferentially regularly spaced from one another.

[0198] Generally, the axial retaining ring 105 comprises at least one radial projection 152.

[0199] The axial retaining ring 105 is rotatable relative to said assembly 100 between a locked position, in which each radial projection 152 is located at the rear in the radial direction of a flexible tab 126 provided with an internal latching element 126 to block their bending in the radial direction and thus prevent manual extraction of the container 2, 3 from the covering assembly 100 and an unlocked position, in which the radial projections 152 are angularly offset from the flexible tabs 123 provided with an internal latching element 126 to allow their bending in the radial direction and thus allow manual extraction of the container 2, 3 from the covering assembly 100 by means of an axial extraction force applied to said container 2, 3, causing the radial separation of the flexible tabs 123 provided with an internal snap-in element 126.

[0200] Alternatively, a different number of radial projections 152 of the axial retaining ring 105 could be provided. Generally, the number of radial projections 152 of the axial retaining ring 105 corresponds to the number of flexible tabs 123 provided with an internal snap-fastening element 126.

[0201] As illustrated in detail in Figures 8A and 8B, the axial retaining ring 105 comprises an external wall 153, here of polygonal section and an internal wall 154 of circular section.

[0202] Alternatively, other cross-sectional shapes of the external wall 153 of the axial retaining ring 105 could be provided, such as a circular, ovoid, oblong, polygonal shape, for example square or rectangular, in particular with rounded corners, or other.

[0203] The section of the external wall 153 of the axial retaining ring 105 may be identical and of the same dimension as the section of the covering case 101 so as not to form radial protuberances.

[0204] Conversely, and as illustrated, the section of the external wall 153 of the axial holding ring 105 may be different and / or of different dimensions than the section of the covering case 101, in order to form one or more radial protuberances on the axial holding ring 105 projecting from the covering case 101, and this in order to facilitate the gripping and actuation of the axial holding ring 105.

[0205] As illustrated, the axial retaining ring 105 comprises, on its internal wall 154, radial ribs 151, here four in number, extending radially inwards, and circumferentially regularly spaced from each other.

[0206] Generally, the axial retaining ring 105 comprises at least one radial rib 151.

[0207] As illustrated, the axial retaining ring 105 further comprises, on its internal wall 154, two axial ribs 155 extending axially at least over a portion of the height of the axial retaining ring 105.

[0208] The two axial ribs 155 are, here, situated circumferentially opposite each other.

[0209] An axial rib 155 is circumferentially located between two radial projections 152.

[0210] Each axial rib 155 is intended to be inserted into the first circumferential clearance J1 between two flexible tabs 123 and to form a tactile and / or audible indication device for the positioning of the ring 105, in particular in the locked position.

[0211] The axial ribs 155 here have a semi-circular section in order to be easily crossed by the flexible tabs 123 during rotation of the ring 105.

[0212] Generally, the axial retaining ring 105 comprises, on its internal wall 154, at least one axial rib 155 extending axially at least over a portion of the height of the axial retaining ring 105.

[0213] As illustrated, the axial retaining ring 105 comprises, on its internal wall 154, two circumferential stops 156 extending radially inwards.

[0214] The two circumferential stops 156 are, here, situated circumferentially opposite one another.

[0215] A circumferential stop 156 is circumferentially located between two radial projections 152.

[0216] Each circumferential stop 156 is intended to be inserted into the second circumferential clearance J2 and to come into circumferential abutment against a flexible tab 123 and form a circumferential stop device in the locked position.

[0217] The circumferential stops 156 and the axial ribs 155 are arranged alternately and regularly spaced from each other.

[0218] Generally, the axial retaining ring 105 comprises, on its internal wall 154, at least one circumferential stop 156 extending radially inwards.

[0219] A disengageable anti-opening device equipping the refillable cosmetic product packaging assembly according to the invention will now be described, in particular in relation to Figures 10 to 13.

[0220] As can be seen in particular in Figures 10 to 13, the shoulder 31 of the container 2, 3, and here of the added element 3, also has a stop surface 314, and preferably two diametrically opposed stop surfaces 314 having a central symmetry with respect to the longitudinal axis X-X', extending in a plane containing the longitudinal axis X-X'. As will be explained later, this or these stop surfaces 314 are adapted to cooperate with one or more stop surfaces 450 provided on the closure element 4 to define an end of travel for screwing the closure element 4 onto the neck 30 of the container 2, 3, corresponding to the position in which the closure element 4 closes the container 2, 3.

[0221] As visible in these figures, the disengageable anti-opening device is arranged between the neck 30 of the container 2, 3 and the closure element 4 and is adapted to block the rotation of the closure element 4 relative to the neck 30 of the container 2, 3 in an unscrewing direction SD, when the closure element is in the closure position of the container 2, 3.

[0222] More specifically, the disengageable anti-opening device comprises a tab 310, and preferably two diametrically opposed tabs 310 having a central symmetry with respect to the longitudinal axis X-X', each having a first end 311 secured to the shoulder 31 of the container 2, 3 and a second free end 312.

[0223] The tab(s) 310 extend in the circumferential direction, with their second free end 312 located downstream of their first end 311 connected to the shoulder, in the screwing direction SV of the closure element 4 onto the neck 30 of the container 2, 3, and have the ability to flex in the direction defined by the longitudinal axis X-X'; in other words, the tab(s) 310 are flexible in the axial direction.

[0224] The disengageable anti-opening device equipping the cosmetic product packaging assembly forming a refill according to the invention further comprises one and preferably two diametrically opposed anti-unscrewing stop surfaces 440 having a central symmetry with respect to the longitudinal axis X-X', provided on the closure element 4. These anti-unscrewing stop surfaces 440 provided on the closure element 4 are provided to cooperate with the tabs 310 provided on the neck 30 of the container 2, 3 to block the rotation of the closure element 4 with respect to the neck 30 of the container 2, 3 in an unscrewing direction, when the closure element 4 is in the position for closing the container 2, 3, as illustrated in Figures 9 and 13.

[0225] In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the anti-unscrewing stop surface(s) 440 provided on the closure element 4 are defined by a respective notch 44 formed in the front edge 43 of the closure element 4.

[0226] Furthermore, the abutment surface(s) provided on the closure element 4 are defined by a respective cutout 47 formed in the front edge 43 of the closure element 4.

[0227] The rechargeable device 10 forming a refill is intended to be marketed with the closure element 4 being in the position for closing the container 2, 3, as illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 13.

[0228] The installation by screwing the closure element 4 onto the neck 30 of the container 2, 3 to close it, illustrated in figures 10 to 12, is carried out in the factory or in a packaging center, after filling the internal volume V of the container 2, 3 with a cosmetic product.

[0229] More specifically, and as visible in Figures 10 to 12, when screwing the closure element 4 onto the neck 30 of the container 2, 3, carried out by rotating the closure element 4 relative to the neck 30 of the container 2, 3 in a screwing direction SV, the tabs 310 are adapted to flex in the axial direction towards the bottom 20 of the container 2, 3 by contact with the front edge 43 of the closure element 4.

[0230] [Fig. 10] illustrates a first position of the closure element 4, in which the internal thread 42 begins to engage with the external thread 32 of the neck 30 of the container 2, 3.

[0231] Starting from the position illustrated in [Fig.10], a torque is applied for example to the closure element 4 to rotate it relative to the neck 30 of the container 2, 3 in a screwing direction SV.

[0232] During this screwing movement of the closure element 4 onto the neck 30 of the bottle 2, 3 in the screwing direction SV, the front edge 43 of the closure element 4, located opposite in the axial direction the tab 310, comes into contact with the second end 312 of each tab 310 and exerts on them an axial force in the direction of the bottom 20 of the container 2, 3 tending to cause the tabs 310 to flex elastically in this same direction, as illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12. During this screwing movement of the closure element 4 onto the neck 30 of the container 2, 3 in the screwing direction SV, the free ends 312 of the tabs slide against the front edge 43 of the closure element 4 in the circumferential direction.

[0233] By continuing this screwing movement of the closure element 4 onto the neck 30 of the container 2, 3 in the screwing direction SV, the notches 44 defining the anti-unscrewing stop surfaces 440 are gradually brought into view in the circumferential direction of the free end 312 of the tabs 310, having an anti-unscrewing stop surface 313, as visible in [Fig.13].

[0234] When the closure element 4 approaches the end of the screwing stroke on the neck 30 of the container 2, 3, for example when stop surfaces 314, 450 provided respectively on the shoulder 31 of the container 2, 3 and on the closure element 4 are spaced from each other in the circumferential direction by an angle of between 0.5° and 10°, the free end 312 of each tab 310 is placed opposite the respective notch 44 and the contact of the free end 312 of each tab 310 with the front edge 43 of the closure element 4 is broken.The tabs 310 then move into a locking position, by elastic return in the axial direction, so that the anti-unscrewing stop surface 313 provided on the free end 312 of each tab 310 is opposite in the circumferential direction the complementary anti-unscrewing stop surface 440 provided on the closure element 4, in order to block the rotation of the closure element 4 relative to the neck 30 of the container 2, 3 in an unscrewing direction SD when the element . closure reaches the end of the screwing stroke on the neck of the bottle, as illustrated in figures 9 and 13.

[0235] For the aforementioned purposes, a person skilled in the art will be able to adapt the design and in particular to dimension and position, in particular in the circumferential direction, the external thread 32 of the neck 30 of the container 2, 3, the internal thread 42 of the fixing skirt 41 of the closure element 4, the stop surfaces 314, 450 defining the end of the screwing stroke of the closure element 4 onto the neck 30 of the container 2, 3, as well as the anti-unscrewing stop surfaces 313, 440 provided on the shoulder 31 of the container 2, 3 and on the closure element 4.

[0236] The refill device 10 according to the invention is then in the configuration in which it will be marketed, with the closure element 4 being in the position for closing the container 2, 3, and with the tabs 310 being in the locking position preventing rotation of the closure element 4 relative to the neck 30 of the container 2, 3 in an unscrewing direction SD, so as to prevent a user from using the refill device 10 forming a refill alone.

[0237] Thus, it is only when the closure element 4 is associated with a covering and gripping cover 8, 9 that the tabs 310 are placed in the unlocking position and that the unscrewing of the closure element 4 relative to the neck 30 of the container 2, 3 is authorized.

[0238] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 2 to 13, the refill container 10 is in the form of a bottle, typically intended to contain the cosmetic product and the closure element 4 of which is associated with a rod 5 the end of which is provided with an application member 6.

[0239] The embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 14], in which the same elements bear the same references, differs from the previous embodiment only in that the closure element 4 is devoid of an application member 6 and forms a simple plug for closing the opening O of the refill-forming device 10.

[0240] The embodiment illustrated in Figures 15 to 17, in which the same elements bear the same references, differs from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 13 only by the general shape of the packaging assembly 1 in which the refill device 10 here has a hemispherical base 20 and the covering assembly 100 here has a cylindrical shape and by the fact that the covering assembly 100 does not comprise a separate covering case and mounting bracket, but forms, here, a single piece. The closure element 4 here forms a simple cylindrical cap.

[0241] As illustrated, the rechargeable assembly 1 further comprises a covering ring 200 intended to radially surround the axial holding ring 105 to come flush with both the external wall of the closure member 4 and the external wall of the assembly. 100 dressing.

[0242] As illustrated in detail in Figures 15 to 17, the covering assembly 100 is provided with a closed lower end forming a bottom 110 and an open upper end 103, opposite the lower end 110, forming a neck and provided with an opening 02 allowing access to an internal space E for receiving the device forming a refill 10.

[0243] The covering assembly 100 comprises a peripheral side wall 121 extending between the bottom 110 and the neck 103 and connected to the latter via a radial collar 122 forming a shoulder 104.

[0244] The bottom 20 of the refill-forming device 10 is, here, axially spaced from the bottom 110 of the covering assembly 100.

[0245] As seen in detail in [Fig.16], the peripheral wall 121 of the neck 103 is discontinuous and comprises a plurality of flexible legs 123 extending axially from the radial collar 122 and spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction.

[0246] In the example illustrated in [Fig. 16], the peripheral wall 121 of the neck 103 comprises two groups of three flexible tabs 123a, 123b, the tabs 123 of each group 123a, 123b being spaced apart by a first circumferential clearance J1 and the two groups being spaced apart from each other by a second circumferential clearance J2. The first circumferential clearance J1 is less than the second circumferential clearance J2.

[0247] As illustrated, each flexible tab of each group of tabs comprises an external snap-fastening element 124, here a bead projecting radially outwards, delimiting with the radial collar 122, a snap-fastening groove 125 intended to cooperate with a radial rib 151 provided on an axial retaining ring 105.

[0248] As illustrated, two of the flexible legs of each group of legs comprise, at their upper free end, an internal snap-fastening element 126, here an internal bead projecting radially inwards, intended to be housed at the rear of the external complementary snap-fastening bead or rib 37 provided on the added element 3, in particular on the fixing skirt 36.

[0249] As illustrated in Figures 15 and 16 and in a non-limiting manner, the peripheral wall 121 of the covering assembly 100 has two circumferential through windows or openings 127, allowing the user to view a portion of the container of the device 10 forming a refill through the covering assembly 100 when it is received therein.

[0250] The two circumferential windows 127 are, here, located radially opposite each other.

[0251] Alternatively, it could be provided that a single circumferential window 127 extends over an angular range between 10° and 90°, for example equal to 45°.

[0252] The present invention further provides a method for recharging a refillable cosmetic product packaging assembly 1 according to one or other of the embodiments.

[0253] In this recharging method, the user has a rechargeable cosmetic product packaging assembly 1 whose rechargeable refill device 10 is used, i.e. substantially emptied of its contents, and must be replaced by a new refill device 10'.

[0254] Thus, in a first phase of this recharging process, visible in [Fig. 18A], the user removes and detaches the covering and gripping cover 8, 9 from the closure element belonging to the device 10 forming the used refill.

[0255] The removal of the covering and gripping cover 8, 9 from the closure element 4 is carried out by relative separation of these two elements in the axial direction causing the exit of the gadroon 94 carried by the covering and gripping cover 8, 9 outside the groove 44 provided on the closure element 4.

[0256] However, the prior step of removing the covering and gripping cover 8, 9 is not necessary to be able to place the ring 105 in the unlocking position of the device 10 forming a refill.

[0257] The user then rotates the axial holding ring 105 in a first direction of rotation RI, as seen in [Fig. 18B], until the radial projections 152 of said ring 105 are angularly offset from the flexible tabs 123 provided with internal snap-fastening elements 126 of the mounting bracket 102.

[0258] The user then equips himself with the device 10 forming a used refill and applies an axial extraction force towards the outside in order to cause the flexible tabs 123 provided with the internal snap-fastening elements 126 of the mounting bracket 102 to move apart under the effect of the corresponding complementary external snap-fastening elements 37 provided on the container 2, 3, in order to manually extract the container 2, 3 from the device 10 forming a used refill from the covering assembly 100, as visible in [Fig. 18C].

[0259] The user then provides himself with a device 10' forming a new refill, the internal volume V of the container of which is filled with product, and inserts it into the space E of the covering assembly 100, visible in [Fig. 18D], until the axial retaining device formed by the cooperation between the internal snap-fastening elements 126 of the mounting bracket 102 and corresponding complementary external snap-fastening elements 37 provided on the container 2, 3 of the device 10' forming a new refill is snapped into place.

[0260] The user rotates the axial holding ring 105 in a second direction of rotation R2, opposite to the first direction of rotation RI, as visible in [Fig.18E], until the radial projections 152 of said ring 105 are located behind the flexible legs 123 provided with internal snap-in elements 126 of the mounting bracket 102 and thus lock the axial retaining device in the snap-in position.

[0261] The user positions and fixes the covering and gripping cover 8, 9 on the new refill device 10' which equipped the used refill device 10.

[0262] However, this step of replacing the covering and gripping cover 8, 9 after placing the ring 105 in the locking position of the device 10' forming a new refill is not necessarily necessary.

[0263] In all of the embodiments, the covering and gripping cover 8, 9, and the covering assembly 100 are, for example, made of plastic material, in particular of thermoplastic polymer, such as for example polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PET), or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), or even of a recycled plastic material. The covering and gripping cover 8, 9, and the covering assembly 100 are, preferably, made of the same plastic material.

[0264] For example, the main body 2 and the attached element 3 of the refillable container are made of plastic, advantageously of the same material.

[0265] According to another variant, the main body 2 of the refillable container is made of drawn glass.

[0266] The axial retaining ring 105 may be made of plastic material, in particular thermoplastic polymer, such as for example polypropylene (PP) or of metallic material, in particular aluminum.

[0267] In all of the embodiments, the axial holding ring 105 is not removable and remains axially secured to the covering assembly 100 even when the container 2, 3 is removed from the refill-forming device 10.

[0268] Thanks to the various provisions of the invention, the Applicant Company is able to offer its customers a cosmetic product packaging assembly 1 comprising a refill-forming device having improved axial retention functionality and a minimalist structure, thus reducing the environmental impact resulting both from the manufacture of this refillable assembly, in particular via a limitation of the raw materials used, its packaging and its transport, in particular via a limitation of the mass of the refill-forming device, or its end-of-life treatment.

[0269] Furthermore, with a packaging assembly according to the invention, the Applicant Company is also able to preserve and guarantee an optimal user experience by locking or unlocking the axial retention of the refill-forming container on the covering assembly.

Claims

Claims

1. Refillable assembly (1) for packaging a product, in particular a cosmetic product, extending axially along a longitudinal axis (X-X') and comprising at least: - a refill-forming device (10) comprising a container (2, 3) delimiting an internal volume (V) intended to receive the product, and - a covering assembly (100) delimiting an internal space (E) for receiving the refill-forming device (10), characterized in that it comprises a device for axially retaining the container (2, 3) relative to the covering assembly (100) comprising: - at least one flexible tab (123) extending axially along the longitudinal axis (X-X') of the refillable packaging assembly (1) and comprising an internal snap-fastening element (126);and - at least one external complementary snap-fastening element (37) carried by the container (2, 3) and intended to cooperate with the internal snap-fastening element (126) of the flexible tab (123) of the covering assembly (100) in a position of axial retention of the container (2, 3) relative to the covering assembly (100), the flexible tab (123) being elastically deformable in the radial direction between an initial position in which said flexible tab (123) extends axially along a first axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (X-X') and a deformed position in which said flexible tab (123) extends along a second axis forming an angle with the longitudinal axis (XI-XI').;

2. Refillable packaging assembly (1) according to claim 1, in which the device for axially retaining the container (2, 3) relative to the covering assembly (100) comprises at least two flexible tabs (123) circumferentially distributed around the covering assembly (100).

3. Refillable packaging assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a locking / unlocking device for the axial retention device of the container (2, 3) relative to the covering assembly (100).

4. Refillable packaging assembly (1) according to claim 3, in which the locking / unlocking device comprises an axial holding ring (105), axially secured to the covering assembly (100) and comprising at least one radial projection (152) extending radially inwards, the axial holding ring (105) being rotatable about the longitudinal axis (X-X') relative to the covering assembly (100) between a locked position, in which the radial projection (152) is located at the rear in the radial direction of the flexible tab (123) provided with the internal latching element (126) and an unlocked position, in which the radial projection (152) is angularly offset from the flexible tab (123) provided with the internal latching element (126).

5. Refillable packaging assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the covering assembly (100) comprises a closed lower end forming a bottom (110), an open upper end (112), opposite the bottom (110), provided with a neck (103) and allowing access to the internal space (E) for receiving the container (2, 3) and a peripheral side wall (111, 121) extending between the bottom (110) and the open upper end (112).

6. Packaging assembly (1) according to claim 5, in which the flexible tab (123) is carried by the neck (103) of the covering assembly (100).

7. A refillable packaging assembly (1) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the neck (103) of the covering assembly (100) comprises two groups (123a, 123b) of three flexible legs (123), said flexible legs (123a, 123b) of each group being spaced apart by a first circumferential clearance (J 1) and the two groups being spaced apart from each other by a second circumferential clearance (J2).

8. A refillable packaging assembly (1) according to claim 7, wherein the first circumferential clearance (J 1) is less than or equal to the second circumferential clearance (J2).

9. A refillable packaging assembly (1) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein at least one flexible leg (123) of each group (123a, 123b) of three flexible legs (123) is provided with an internal snap-in element (126).

10. A refillable packaging assembly (1) according to claim 9, wherein at least two of the flexible legs (123) of each group (123a, 123b) of three flexible legs (123) are each provided with an internal snap-fastening element (126) intended to be housed at the rear of an external complementary snap-fastening element (37) provided on the container (2, 3).

11. A refillable packaging assembly (1) according to claim 10, wherein the internal snap-fastening element (126) carried by the tab flexible (123) is an internal bead projecting radially inwards, and the external complementary snap-fastening element (37) carried by the container (2, 3) is an external bead projecting radially outwards.

12. Refillable packaging assembly (1) according to claim 4 in combination with any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein the axial retaining ring (105) comprises at least one radial rib (151) and the neck (103) of the covering assembly (100) comprises at least one external snap-fastening element (124, 125) intended to cooperate with said radial rib (151).

13. A refillable packaging assembly (1) according to claim 6 and 11, wherein at least one flexible leg (123) of each group of flexible legs (123a, 123b) comprises an external snap-in element (124, 125).

14. Refillable packaging assembly (1) according to claim 13, in which the external snap-fastening element (124, 125) comprises a bead (124) projecting radially outwards and a snap-fastening groove (125) located axially directly under said bead (124) and intended to cooperate with the radial rib (151) provided on the axial retaining ring (105).

15. Refillable packaging assembly (1) according to claim 4 in combination with any one of the preceding claims, in which the axial holding ring (105) comprises, on its internal wall (154), at least one axial rib (155) extending axially at least over a portion of the height of the axial holding ring (105).

16. Refillable packaging assembly (1) according to claim 15 in combination with claim 2, in which the axial holding ring (105) comprises, on its internal wall (154), at least two axial ribs (155) extending axially at least over a part of the height of the axial holding ring (105) and each intended to be inserted between two flexible tabs (123) in the locked position of the ring (105).

17. Refillable packaging assembly (1) according to claim 4 in combination with any one of the preceding claims, in which the axial holding ring (105) comprises, on its internal wall (154), at least one circumferential stop (156) extending radially inwards and intended to bear circumferentially against the flexible tab (123) in the locked position of the ring. (105).

18. Refillable packaging assembly (1) according to claim 17 in combination with claim 2, in which the axial holding ring (105) comprises, on its internal wall (154), at least two circumferential stops (156) extending radially inwards and each intended to come into circumferential support against one of the flexible tabs (123) in the locked position of the ring (105).

19. Refillable packaging assembly (1) according to claims 16 and 18, in which the circumferential stops (156) and the axial ribs (155) are arranged alternately and circumferentially, preferably regularly, spaced from each other.

20. A refillable assembly (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the container of the refill device (10) comprises a main body (2) extending along the longitudinal axis (X-X') and an insert (3), fixed to the main body (2) and defining a neck (30) and a shoulder (31) of the container (2, 3).

21. A rechargeable assembly (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the dressing assembly (100) comprises a dressing case (101) and a mounting bracket (102), secured to the dressing case (101) and defining the neck (103) of the dressing assembly (100).

22. A rechargeable assembly (1) according to claim 21, wherein the dressing case (101) is provided with a closed lower end forming a bottom (110) and an open upper end (112), opposite the lower end (110), the mounting bracket (102) being fixed at the open end (112) of the dressing case (101).

23. A rechargeable assembly (1) according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the open end (112) is connected to the bottom (110) by a peripheral wall (111) of the covering assembly (100) and wherein said peripheral wall (111) comprises, on its internal surface, an axial groove (113) extending axially from the open end (112) and intended to cooperate with a radial collar (122) provided at the lower end of the mounting bracket (102).

24. A rechargeable assembly (1) according to claim 23, wherein the peripheral wall (121) of the mounting bracket (102) is discontinuous and comprises at least one flexible tab (123) extending axially from the radial collar (122).

25. A refillable assembly (1) according to claim 2 in combination with any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container (2, 3) further comprises at least one rotation-locking element (38) intended to be inserted circumferentially between two flexible tabs (123) to lock the rotation of the container (2, 3) relative to the covering assembly (100).

26. Refillable assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the refill device (10) comprises a closure element (4) mounted on the container (2, 3) and closing access to the internal volume (V).

27. Rechargeable assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a cover (8, 9) for covering and gripping the refill-forming device (10).

28. Method for recharging a refillable cosmetic product packaging assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least the steps of: - applying an axial outward extraction force to the container (2, 3), in order to cause the flexible tab (123) provided with an internal snap-fastening element (126) to move away from the covering assembly (100) under the effect of the complementary external snap-fastening element (37) provided on the container (2, 3), in order to extract said container (2, 3) from the used refill device (10) out of the covering assembly (100); - providing a new refill device (10');and - inserting and fixing said new refill-forming device (10') in the internal space (E) of the covering assembly (100), until the axial retaining device formed by the cooperation between the internal snap-fastening element (126) of the covering assembly (100) and the complementary external snap-fastening element (37) provided on the container (2, 3) snaps into place.;

29. A recharging method according to claim 28, wherein the refillable assembly (1) comprises an axial retaining ring (105) axially secured to the covering assembly (100) and comprising at least one radial projection (151) extending radially inwards, said ring (105) being rotatable relative to the covering assembly (100), and wherein the method comprises, before the step of applying an axial withdrawal force, a step consisting of: - rotating the axial retaining ring (105) according to a first direction of rotation (RI), until the radial projection (151) of said ring (105) is angularly offset from the flexible tab (123) provided with an internal snap-fastening element (126) of the covering assembly (100); and, comprising, after the step of inserting and fixing a new refill-forming device (10'), a step consisting of: - rotating the axial retaining ring (105) in a second direction of rotation (R2), opposite to the first direction of rotation (RI), until the radial projection (151) of said ring (105) is located radially behind the flexible tab (123) provided with an internal snap-fastening element (126) and thus locking the axial retaining device in the axial retaining position.

30. A refilling method according to claim 29, wherein the refillable assembly further comprises a cover (8, 9) for covering and gripping the refill-forming device (10), and wherein the method comprises, preferably before the step of rotating the axial holding ring (105) in the first direction of rotation (RI), a step consisting of removing a covering and gripping cover (8, 9) from a closure element (4) belonging to the used refill-forming device (10), and comprising, preferably after the step of rotating the axial holding ring (105) in the second direction of rotation (R2), a step consisting of repositioning the covering and gripping cover (8, 9) on the new refill-forming device (10') which equipped the used refill-forming device (10).

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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