Refill intended to contain a fluid cosmetic product, necessary and associated loading or unloading method

Abstract

Refill intended to contain a fluid cosmetic product, necessary and associated loading or unloading method The refill (200) comprises: a bottle (16) having a neck (26) defining an access passage (44) to the interior volume, a connector (18) having a collar arranged to bear on an outer edge (42) of the neck (26), a cap (202) movable between a position for sealing the access passage (44) and a position for releasing the access passage (44), The collar has a first sealing region (218) between the cap (202) and the collar and a second sealing region (220) between the dispensing mechanism and the connector (18) arranged away from the first sealing region (218). Figure for abstract: Figure 6

Description

Title of the invention: Refill intended to contain a fluid cosmetic product, necessary and associated loading or unloading method

[0001] The present invention relates to a refill intended to contain a fluid cosmetic product, the refill being intended to be assembled in a sealed manner with a fluid cosmetic product dispensing mechanism, the refill comprising: - a bottle having an interior volume intended to contain a fluid cosmetic product, the bottle having a neck defining an access passage to the interior volume having an elevation axis; - a connector inserted into the neck, the connector having a collar arranged to rest on an outer edge of the neck; - a plug movable between a position of sealed closure of the access passage and a position of release of the access passage.

[0002] The cosmetic product is, for example, a hair product, a hygiene product, a facial and / or body care product, a makeup product, or a sun protection product.

[0003] More generally, a cosmetic product is a product as defined in Regulation EC No. 1223 / 2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council, dated November 30, 2009, relating to cosmetic products.

[0004] The proposal of eco-responsible, environmentally friendly solutions whose design and development take into account environmental issues is becoming a major concern to help meet global challenges.

[0005] It is therefore essential to design products that allow the quantity of materials used to be reduced and / or replaced with more environmentally friendly materials and / or to use recyclable materials in order to reduce the carbon footprint of the product.

[0006] 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.

[0007] The objective is to offer reusable eco-responsible containers, particularly those that can be refilled or refilled at home or in stores, in order to reduce the carbon footprint of packaging.

[0008] Consumers who habitually use a cosmetic product must make recurring purchases of packaging containing the same product. cosmetics, these packagings being mostly single-use.

[0009] Most cosmetic product packaging that has simple structures is now made from materials that can be recycled after use, in order to reduce the quantity of waste produced.

[0010] However, some packaging has more complex elements, particularly when it is equipped with dispensing mechanisms, such as pumps mounted on the bottle containing the product.

[0011] These complex elements, in particular the pump, are difficult to recycle.

[0012] To limit the amount of waste produced, it is known for example from JP6609515 that the dispensing mechanism is removably mounted on the bottle containing the cosmetic product. Thus, when the cosmetic product contained in the bottle runs out, the used bottle can be dismantled and recycled. The pump is then assembled on a refill full of product.

[0013] The pump, which is relatively expensive and difficult to recycle, is therefore reused several times, which limits the environmental impact and reduces the cost of use.

[0014] Such a container is not, however, entirely satisfactory. To achieve a seal with the cap when storing the refill, the collar mounted on the bottle has a single sealing region provided with an annular relief. The cap is applied to the relief to achieve a seal, but the relief is liable to deform irreversibly over time, for example by fining.

[0015] This relief cannot therefore be used to create a seal with the pump mechanism, because it is likely to have been deformed.

[0016] As a result, a seal is interposed between the dispensing mechanism and the collar. Handling of this seal by the user can be tedious and force him to come into contact with the cosmetic product when replacing the used bottle with a refill.

[0017] Furthermore, the positioning of the seal by the user and its level of wear affect the quality of the seal achieved. In certain cases, the user may fail to replace a seal, which impairs the proper functioning of the pump and / or the seal.

[0018] Other product packagings comprising refills are described in JP6164937B2, JP5578545B2, JP5578545B2, JP6023861B1, FR2927888A1, FR2931462A1, JP5250492B2, EP2409774A2 and EP2105209B1.

[0019] An aim of the invention is therefore to provide a refill intended to contain a fluid cosmetic product which allows a user to reuse its pump several times, while maintaining good sealing during successive manipulations by the user to mount a refill.

[0020] To this end, the invention relates to a refill intended to contain a product fluid cosmetic of the aforementioned type, characterized in that the collar has a first sealing region between the cap and the collar and a second sealing region between the dispensing mechanism and the connector arranged away from the first sealing region.

[0021] The presence of distinct sealing regions for achieving sealing on the one hand, between the collar and the dispensing mechanism and on the other hand, between the collar and the cap makes it possible to have a specific sealing region on the collar to establish a reliable and simple seal to implement between the collar of the refill connector and the dispensing mechanism, after removal of the cap from the refill. This specific region is for example provided with an annular relief or receives such an annular relief.

[0022] Thus, even if the cap affects the first sealing region on the collar, causing deformation and / or material creep, the second sealing region remains available on the collar to ensure sealing with the dispensing mechanism.

[0023] It is thus possible to form a reliable seal directly between the collar and the sealing mechanism, without necessarily having to use an intermediate seal, the second sealing region not being affected by the need to seal the refill during storage and transport.

[0024] According to a variant, the refill according to the invention comprises the following characteristic: - the second sealing region comprises an annular relief, the annular relief being intended to create a sealed contact between the collar and the dispensing mechanism when the dispensing mechanism is assembled on the bottle.

[0025] The annular relief allows for effective and complete sealing between the collar and the dispensing mechanism when the latter is assembled on the bottle, the simple annular shape further reducing manufacturing costs compared to complex sealing systems. In addition, the presence of this relief avoids having to interpose a seal between the collar and the dispensing mechanism. Thus, there is no need to source and fit a separate part that could become detached and be omitted during assembly by the user. The risk of contact with cosmetic product is further reduced.

[0026] Furthermore, the quality of the seal does not depend on the positioning of such an external seal by the user. The assembly and the creation of the seal when mounting a refill on the dispensing mechanism is therefore simple and reliable for the user.

[0027] According to a variant, the refill according to the invention comprises the characteristic next: - the plug defines a groove opposite the annular relief, the annular relief being arranged in the groove preferably completely away from the plug in the sealed closing position of the access passage.

[0028] The groove of the cap opposite the annular relief ensures that the annular relief does not come into contact with the cap, and prevents it from deteriorating in the sealed closure position of the access passage. Thus, even if a strong stress were present on the cap when it is mounted on the bottle, the annular relief, guaranteeing the seal between the collar and the dispensing mechanism, remains intact and is little subject to fining.

[0029] According to a variant, the refill according to the invention comprises the following characteristic: - the annular relief is formed from an elastically deformable material.

[0030] The material of the annular relief is elastically deformable, which facilitates the creation of a sealed contact between the collar and the dispensing mechanism, even in the absence of a separate annular seal. In addition, the elastic deformation absorbs variations in clamping force applied by the user during successive refill assemblies and / or due to different users.

[0031] According to a variant, the refill according to the invention comprises the following characteristic: - the annular relief is formed in one piece with the collar.

[0032] The annular relief is integral with the collar in order to increase the robustness, and therefore the reusability, of the second sealing region. In addition, manufacturing is simplified, since it is not necessary to reference several parts to assemble the connector on the bottle.

[0033] According to a variant, the refill according to the invention comprises the following characteristic: - one of the first sealing region and the plug comprises a protrusion, the other of the first sealing region and the plug having a surface for cooperation with the protrusion, the protrusion and the cooperation surface having a sealing contact in the sealed closing position of the access passage.

[0034] The protrusion thus simply defines, without the addition of additional parts, the first sealing region between the collar and the cap. To simplify manufacturing, the protrusion is advantageously defined on one of the cap and the collar depending on the materials used for one or other of these components.

[0035] According to a variant, the refill according to the invention comprises the characteristic next: - the protuberance or the surface cooperating with the protuberance is formed from an elastically deformable material.

[0036] The material of the protrusion or the surface cooperating with the protrusion is elastically deformable, which facilitates the creation of a sealed contact between the collar and the cap, even in the absence of a separate annular seal. In addition, the elastic deformation absorbs variations in clamping force applied during assembly of the cap or flatness defects.

[0037] This beneficial effect is observed in particular when the connector carrying the surface intended to receive the protuberance is made of elastically deformable material, the plug being entirely made of a less or non-elastically deformable material.

[0038] According to a variant, the refill according to the invention comprises the following characteristic: - the protrusion is in one piece with one of the cap and the collar.

[0039] The protrusion is preferably integral with the cap, made in particular of a relatively rigid material, in order to increase the robustness of the first sealing region formed on the collar, made in particular of a relatively flexible / elastically deformable material. In addition, manufacturing is simplified, since it is not necessary to reference several parts to assemble the connector on the bottle.

[0040] According to a variant, the refill according to the invention comprises the following characteristic: - the protuberance is annular.

[0041] The annular shape of the protuberance allows for effective and complete sealing between the collar and the cap when the latter is assembled on the bottle. This annular shape is also simple to produce, particularly by molding, allowing for a reduction in manufacturing costs.

[0042] According to a variant, the refill according to the invention comprises the following characteristic: - in the sealed closing position, the first sealing region is arranged radially closer to the elevation axis than the second sealing region.

[0043] The arrangement of the second sealing region outside the first region ensures a larger sealing surface between the collar and the dispensing mechanism when the latter is fitted to the bottle.

[0044] It is particularly advantageous if the second sealing region is located axially opposite the outer edge of the neck, in particular when this outer edge has a bead. This is particularly useful when the distribution mechanism has a flat transverse surface for achieving sealing.

[0045] The invention also relates to a kit, the kit comprising: - a refill as defined above and a dispensing mechanism configured to be removably and tightly mounted on the connector.

[0046] According to one variant, the kit comprises the following characteristic: - the dispensing mechanism comprises a contact surface with the second sealing region, the second sealing region being in sealing contact with the contact surface, without the interposition of an intermediate sealing gasket, when the dispensing mechanism is mounted on the connector.

[0047] When replacing the bottle, a seal would be likely to remain attached to the collar of the used bottle and compromise the tight attachment of a new dispensing mechanism to a new bottle. The absence of a seal therefore facilitates handling when changing the refill. In addition, no seal needs to be replaced or supplied by the user, which simplifies handling and limits the risk of positioning defects or repositioning of such a seal likely to cause sealing defects between the dispensing mechanism and the connector.

[0048] According to a variant, the kit comprises the following characteristic: - the distribution mechanism comprises a pump motor mounted in a sealed manner in the connector.

[0049] The invention also relates to a method for loading or unloading such a refill, the method comprising the following steps: - provision of a kit as defined above, the cap being in the position for closing the access passage, the seal between the cap and the bottle being achieved by contact between the first sealing region and the cap; - passage of the plug in the position of release of the access passage; - assembly of the dispensing mechanism on the refill, the seal between the dispensing mechanism and the bottle being achieved by contact between the second sealing region and the dispensing mechanism.

[0050] The invention will be better understood on reading the following description, given solely as a non-limiting example, and made with reference to the appended drawings, in which:

[0051] [Fig.l] [Fig.l] is a view, taken in section along a median vertical plane, of a device for packaging and dispensing cosmetic products according to the invention, provided with a removable dispensing mechanism,

[0052] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a view, taken in section along a median vertical plane, of a cosmetic product refill according to the invention,

[0053] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is an enlarged view, taken in section along a median vertical plane, of a packaging assembly of the packaging and dispensing device or of the refill,

[0054] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a perspective view of a connector extended by a dip tube intended to be mounted in the packaging assembly or in the refill,

[0055] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is a vertical sectional view of the refill closure cap,

[0056] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is an enlarged view of [Fig.2] with respect to the sealing embodiment regions.

[0057] In all that follows, the terms "interior" and "exterior", and "internal" and "external" are understood in a relative manner with respect to the interior volume of the device for packaging and dispensing a cosmetic product or the refill. The term "interior" or "internal" associated with an element means that this element is generally closer to or oriented towards the interior volume, whereas the term "exterior" or "external" generally means that the element is further away from or oriented towards the outside of the interior volume.

[0058] An example of a cosmetic product packaging assembly 11 according to the invention is visible in Figures 1 to 3.

[0059] This packaging assembly 11 is intended to form a part either of a cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device 12, visible in [Fig. 1], or of a refill 200, visible in [Fig. 2], intended to replace a packaging assembly 11 of a packaging and dispensing device 12 in which the cosmetic product is exhausted or expired.

[0060] As visible in [Fig.l], the packaging and dispensing device 12 comprises a packaging assembly 11 comprising a bottle 16, a connector 18 mounted in the bottle 16, and a dip tube 20 mounted at a free end of the connector 18.

[0061] The packaging and dispensing device 12 further comprises a dispensing mechanism 22, which is here removably mounted on the bottle 16 and in the connector 18 to allow access to the bottle 16 and to authorize a new filling of the bottle 16 through the connector 18 and the dip tube 20.

[0062] The bottle 16 is preferably made in one piece.

[0063] Here it comprises a reservoir 24 extending along an elevation axis A-A' which is here vertical, and a neck 26 which extends the reservoir 24 along the elevation axis A-A'.

[0064] The reservoir 24 defines an interior volume 28 containing a cosmetic product fluid, the reservoir 24 extending along the elevation axis A-A' visible in [Fig. 1].

[0065] The reservoir 24 comprises a side wall 30, of polygonal or rounded section, a bottom 32 closing the side wall 30 downwards and a shoulder 34 from which the neck 26 projects upwards.

[0066] The side wall 30, the bottom 32 and the shoulder 34 define the interior volume 28.

[0067] The side wall 30 extends along the elevation axis A-A'. It is for example formed of a rigid material and can receive ornaments. Advantageously, the side wall 30, or even the entirety of the reservoir 24 and the neck 26, is (are) formed of glass.

[0068] The bottom 32 defines a support for the bottle 16 when it is arranged on a surface perpendicular to the elevation axis A-A'. Here it has a curved surface 36 defining a hollow.

[0069] As visible in [Fig.3], the neck 26 projects from the shoulder 34 along the elevation axis A-A'.

[0070] With reference to [Fig. 3], the neck 26 comprises an internal surface 38 directed towards the elevation axis A-A', an external surface 40 opposite the elevation axis A-A' and an external edge 42 (or "drinking") connecting the internal surface 38 to the external surface 40, transversely to the elevation axis A-A'.

[0071] The internal surface 38 defines an access passage 44 to the interior volume 28, the access passage 44 extending along the elevation axis A-A'. It opens inwards, into the interior volume 28 and outwards, outside the bottle 16.

[0072] The minimum diameter of the access passage 44 is for example between 9.5 and 25 mm, and in particular close to 12 mm.

[0073] From top to bottom in [Fig. 3], the inner surface 38 defines at least one upper region 46 adjacent to the outer edge 42, at least one concave intermediate region 48 and at least one lower region 50 adjacent to the shoulder 34, the concave intermediate region 48 being located between the upper region 46 and the lower region 50 moving along the elevation axis A-A'.

[0074] The concave intermediate region 48 comprises at least one undercut portion 52, 54.

[0075] Advantageously, the concave intermediate region 48 is annular and comprises a first upper undercut portion 52, adjacent to the upper region 46 and a second lower undercut portion 54, adjacent to the lower region 50. The first undercut portion 52 and the second undercut portion 54 are annular.

[0076] The maximum depth of the concave intermediate region 48 taken in the same median plane passing through the elevation axis A-A', between the point of the upper region 46 closest to the elevation axis A-A', and between the point of the concave intermediate region 48 furthest from the elevation axis A-A', is greater than 0.1 mm, in particular between 0.1 mm and 0.4 mm, this depth being taken perpendicular to the elevation axis A-A'.

[0077] The point of the upper region 46 closest to the elevation axis A-A' is located above the point of the concave intermediate region 48 furthest from the elevation axis A-A'.

[0078] The external surface 40 comprises an external thread 56 on which the distribution mechanism 22 is intended to be mounted reversibly.

[0079] The outer edge 42 is arranged substantially perpendicular to the elevation axis A-A' at the end of the neck 26 opposite the reservoir 24.

[0080] In particular when the bottle 16 is formed from glass, the outer edge 42 is not flat and comprises, for example, an outwardly projecting bead 58.

[0081] Advantageously, the bead 58 is annular around the elevation axis A-A'.

[0082] As visible in [Fig.4], the connector 18 comprises an inner barrel 60 and an outer collar 62 projecting radially relative to the barrel 60.

[0083] The connector 18 is suitable for being mounted in a position inserted into the bottle 16, from an assembly position away from the bottle 16.

[0084] The collar 62 projects radially continuously around the barrel 60. It is applied in a sealed manner to the outer edge 42 of the neck 26 in the inserted position.

[0085] The collar 62 has a radial extent relative to the barrel 60 of between 50% and 100% of the maximum radial extent of the outer edge 42 of the neck 26.

[0086] In this example, the collar 62 is devoid of a fallen edge extending opposite the barrel 26.

[0087] The collar 62 defines an annular relief 64 for sealing with the distribution mechanism 22, the annular relief 64 projecting outwards opposite the barrel 60.

[0088] The barrel 60 is inserted into the access passage 44 of the neck 26 of the bottle 16 in an inserted position visible in particular in [Fig.3].

[0089] With reference in particular to figures 3 and 4, the barrel 60 successively has, along the elevation axis A-A', an external region 66 for producing a seal between the collar 62 and the external edge 42, an intermediate region 68 for mechanical retention in the neck 26 and an internal region 70 for connection to the dip tube 20.

[0090] The barrel 60 has, along the successive regions 66, 68, 70, an internal surface 72 directed towards the elevation axis A-A' and an external surface 73 placed opposite the internal surface 38 of the neck 26.

[0091] The internal surface 72 defines a central receiving housing 74 of the distribution mechanism 22.

[0092] The outer sealing region 66 is adjacent to the collar 62. It comprises a retaining projection 76 of generally annular shape, the projection of retainer 76 extending radially away from the elevation axis A-A' from the external surface 73.

[0093] The annular projection 76 is applied against the internal surface 38 of the neck 26 in the inserted position.

[0094] In this position, the annular projection 76 is retained in the concave intermediate region 48 by its cooperation with the concave intermediate region 48 under the undercut upper part 52.

[0095] By shape effect, the cooperation between the concave intermediate region 48 of the neck 26 and the annular projection 76 of the connector 18 generates a stress force applying the collar 62 to the outer edge 42 of the neck 26, the stress force being directed towards the interior volume 28 along the elevation axis A-A'.

[0096] For this purpose, the axial distance separating the inner surface of the collar 62 adapted to come to bear on the outer edge 42 of the neck 26 and the portion of the annular projection 76 closest to this surface is advantageously less than the axial distance separating the outer edge 42 of the neck 26 and the portion of the concave intermediate region 48 closest to this outer edge 42.

[0097] Thus, in the assembled position of the connector 18 in the neck 26 of the bottle 16, with the collar 62 resting on the outer edge 42 of the neck 26 and the annular projection 76 constrained in the concave intermediate region 48, the axial portion of the connector 18 located between the inner surface of the collar 62 and the annular projection 76 is elastically stressed in traction along the elevation axis A-A', so that the inner surface of the collar 62 is pressed against the outer edge of the neck, thereby improving the seal at this interface.

[0098] The stress force creates and / or reinforces the seal between the outer edge 42 and the collar 62 over the entire angular extent of the collar 62 around the elevation axis A-A', in particular by pressing the collar 62 against the bead 58 of the outer edge 42.

[0099] The axial stress force in the inserted position is in particular between 0.5 N and 10 N.

[0100] In the example shown in [Fig.4], the annular projection 76 comprises at least one axial notch 78 allowing gas to circulate through the annular projection 76, in particular when the annular projection 76 is applied against the concave intermediate region 48.

[0101] Even if no seal exists between the annular projection 76 and the neck 26, in particular since the axial notch 78 allows gases to pass through, the generation on the collar 62 of an axial stress force directed towards the interior volume 28 by shape effect between the annular projection 76 and the concave intermediate region 48 guarantees that the collar 62 is applied in a sealed manner on the outer edge 42 of the neck 26 on the entire periphery of pass 26.

[0102] As visible in [Fig.4], the external region for producing a seal 66 and the intermediate mechanical holding region 68 define an annular constriction 80 at their junction.

[0103] The intermediate mechanical holding region 68 comprises at least one radially projecting structure, here an H-shaped projecting structure 82, at least one air passage vent 84, at least one lower fin 86 and an upper internal stop 88 for wedging the distribution mechanism 22, projecting into the central housing 74.

[0104] The H-shaped protruding structure 82 is intended to ensure the wedging of the connector 18 in the neck 26 when the connector 18 is in its inserted position. Each H-shaped protruding structure 82 extends from the external surface 73 into the intermediate mechanical holding region 68.

[0105] Each H-shaped protruding structure 82 comprises a first doublet 90 of fins 96, 98, a second doublet 92 of fins 96, 98 and a circumferential intermediate upright 94.

[0106] Each fin 96, 98 of a doublet 90, 92 projects radially from the barrel 60. It extends axially along the intermediate mechanical holding region 68, over the entire length between the external sealing region 66 and the region of connection to the dip tube 70.

[0107] Each pair of fins 90, 92 comprises a first fin 96 and a second fin 98 which are parallel, arranged side by side.

[0108] The first fins 96 of the doublets 90, 92 are adjacent. They are arranged opposite one another, being connected by the circumferential intermediate upright 94.

[0109] The intermediate amount 94 also connects the fins 96, 98 within a doublet 90, 92 between them.

[0110] The distance between two fins 96, 98 within a doublet 90, 92 is generally between 10% and 50%, and in particular 30%, of the distance connecting the first fins 96 opposite each doublet 90, 92.

[0111] In the example shown in [Fig.4], the connector 18 comprises two projecting H-shaped structures 82 diametrically opposed with respect to the elevation axis A-A'.

[0112] The axial notch 78 of the annular projection 76 opens here opposite the H-shaped structure 82.

[0113] Each vent 84 is provided between two H-shaped structures 82 at the level of the annular constriction 80. It defines a through air passage between the interior volume 28 of the bottle 16 and the central receiving housing 74 of the connector 18.

[0114] Advantageously, when the connector 18 is produced by molding, the barrel 60 defines a joint plane (not shown) passing through the elevation axis A-A' between two H-shaped structures 82. This joint plane results from the demolding of the connector 18 during its manufacture. Advantageously, each vent 84 is formed by a shape within the joint plane, so that the joint plane passes through each vent 84.

[0115] The integration of the vents 84 in the joint plane avoids having small diameter pins in the mold which could easily break and generate connectors 18 on which vents 84 would be missing.

[0116] In the example of [Fig.4], the connector 18 defines two opposite vents 84, located on either side of each H-shaped structure 82.

[0117] Each lower fin 86 is disposed below each vent 84 on the outer surface 73 in the intermediate mechanical holding region 68. Each lower fin 86 extends axially from each vent 84 to the junction between the intermediate mechanical holding region 68 and the dip tube connection region 70.

[0118] With reference to [Fig. 3], the internal stop 88 is annular. It extends radially in the central receiving housing 74, from the internal surface 72 in the mechanical holding region 68. The upper internal stop 88 is arranged under the or each vent 84 along the elevation axis A-A'.

[0119] In the inserted position, the fins 96, 98 of each H-shaped protruding structure 82 and the lower fins 86 are applied to the internal surface of the neck 38. The connector 18 is thus kept centered and wedged in the access passage 44.

[0120] The region of connection to the dip tube 70 comprises successively along the elevation axis A-A', from the outside towards the inside, a receiving cylinder 100 and a fixing cylinder 102.

[0121] The receiving cylinder 100 is adjacent to the intermediate mechanical holding region 68. It comprises a lower annular stop 104 for wedging the distribution mechanism 22, which projects radially from the internal surface of the receiving cylinder 100.

[0122] The diameter of the receiving cylinder 100 is greater than the diameter of the fixing cylinder 102.

[0123] The fixing cylinder 102 extends internally to a free end here having a conical end 106.

[0124] The connector 18 is advantageously made of a single material and is made of an elastically deformable material, in particular a material whose Young's modulus is between 1 GPa and 3 GPa. This material is, for example, polyethylene or polypropylene.

[0125] The dip tube 20 is cylindrical. It has an outer end engaged on the fixing cylinder 102 and a free inner end.

[0126] The dip tube 20 extends the barrel 60 of the connector 18. It is assembled with the connector 18 by the engagement of the fixing cylinder 102 in its outer end.

[0127] The dip tube 20 defines an inner conduit 108 connecting the inner volume 28 of the bottle 16 to the central receiving housing 74 in the inserted position.

[0128] In this position, the dip tube 20 is inserted into the interior volume 28. It has a length adapted so that its lower end plunges into the cosmetic product, even when the level of cosmetic product is low in the bottle.

[0129] The dip tube 20 is preferably made of material, advantageously obtained at lower cost by an extrusion process, and made of a material such as polyethylene.

[0130] The dispensing mechanism 22 is reversibly mountable / dismountable between a mounted position on the neck 26 and a dismounted position away from the neck 26.

[0131] As seen in [Fig.l], the dispensing mechanism 22 comprises a base 110, a pump body 112 mounted in the base 110, a dispensing actuating member 114 operable by a user and optionally a cap 116.

[0132] The base 110 of the distribution mechanism 22 comprises an external peripheral hoop 118, an internal support and sealing ring 120 arranged in the external hoop 118 and a transverse connecting wall 122 connecting the external hoop 118 to the internal ring 120.

[0133] The external hoop 118 is cylindrical with an axis corresponding to the elevation axis A-A' in the mounted position.

[0134] The internal support crown 120 is arranged coaxially with the external hoop 118. It projects outwards from an inner edge of the transverse connecting wall 122.

[0135] The transverse connecting wall 122 projects perpendicular to the axis of the external hoop 118 into the intermediate space between the external hoop 118 and the internal crown 120. It has an annular shape which closes the intermediate space.

[0136] The external hoop 118 has, under the transverse connecting wall 122, on the side opposite the internal support crown 120, an internal thread 115 complementary to the external thread 56 arranged on the neck 26 of the bottle 16.

[0137] In the mounted position, the transverse connecting wall 122 is arranged in sealed contact with the collar 62 of the connector 18. The annular relief 64 of the collar 62 rests on the internal support ring 120 over its entire angular extent to ensure sealing.

[0138] This sealing is ensured with a minimal number of parts and in particular without the presence of sealing joints, on the one hand, between the collar 62 and the outer edge 42 of the neck 26 and on the other hand, between the collar 62 and the transverse wall 122.

[0139] Thus, the intake of air into the interior volume 28 when the dispensing mechanism 22 is carried out exclusively in a controlled manner by the or each vent 84. This limits the risk of cosmetic product leaking out of the interior volume 24.

[0140] Furthermore, the assembly / disassembly of the dispensing mechanism 22 to refill the bottle 16 is simplified and made more reliable by the absence of a seal, avoiding the user having to handle such a seal (in particular soiled by cosmetic product) and / or having to supply it to replace it.

[0141] The external hoop 118 defines a volume for receiving the pump body 112, the pump body 112 successively comprising, along the elevation axis A-A', a first sleeve 126 and a second sleeve 128, the first sleeve 126 having a diameter greater than the diameter of the second sleeve 128.

[0142] In the mounted position, the first sleeve 126 is in sealing contact with the inner surface 72 of the intermediate mechanical holding region 68 of the connector 18 by its cooperation with the upper internal stop 88. The second sleeve 128 is in sealing contact with the inner surface of the region of connection to the dip tube of the connector 70 by its cooperation with the lower annular stop 104.

[0143] The two sleeves 126, 128 define a space for receiving a pump motor (not shown) intended to pump the liquid present in the interior volume 28 of the bottle 16 during the movement of a mobile element of the pump motor actuated by the actuating member 114.

[0144] The actuating member 114 comprises a cover 130 and a dispensing nozzle 132.

[0145] The actuating member 114 projects outwardly from the internal support ring 120.

[0146] The cover 130 is engaged on the pump motor. It is movable in translation inwardly by a user to actuate the pump motor and pump fluid cosmetic product from the interior volume 28 through the dip tube 20, the connection region 70, and then into the pump motor to be conveyed to the dispensing nozzle 132.

[0147] The cap 116 defines an interior covering space.

[0148] The cap 116 is maneuverable between a position for covering the dispensing mechanism 22 and a position for using the dispensing mechanism 22.

[0149] [Fig.2] illustrates a refill 200 comprising a packaging assembly 11 intended to replace the packaging assembly 11 of the packaging and dispensing device 12 when the cosmetic product it contains is exhausted or expired.

[0150] The packaging assembly 11 of the refill 200 comprises a bottle 16, a connector 18, and a dip tube 20 mounted at an inner end of the dip tube 20. The bottle 16, the connector 18 and the dip tube 20 of the refill 200 are advantageously identical respectively to the bottle 16, the connector 18 and the dip tube 20 of the packaging and dispensing device 12 and will not be described in more detail.

[0151] With reference to figures 2, 5, and 6, the refill 200 further comprises a stopper 202 removably mounted on the bottle 16 of the packaging assembly 11.

[0152] The stopper 202 is intended to seal the access passage 44 to the interior volume 28 defined by the neck 26 of the bottle 16 during storage and transport of the refill 200. For use of the refill 200, the stopper 202 is movable between a position for sealing the access passage 44 and a position for releasing the access passage 44.

[0153] As visible in [Fig.5], the cap 202 comprises an external skirt 208 intended to be fixed on the neck 26 of the bottle 16, an external wall 206 for providing sealing, and a closure member 204 of the or each vent 84 of the connector 18, projecting from the external wall 206 and extending radially inside the external skirt 208.

[0154] Advantageously, the external skirt 208 is cylindrical and extends around the elevation axis A-A' when the plug 202 is in its position for sealing the access passage 44.

[0155] The outer skirt 208 has an internal thread 210 on its inner surface 212, the internal thread 210 being complementary to the external thread 56 of the neck 26.

[0156] The outer wall 206 here extends perpendicular to the elevation axis A-A' in the closed position. It closes the outer skirt 208.

[0157] The outer sealing wall 206 comprises on its inner surface, a protuberance 214 and a groove 216.

[0158] The protrusion 214 is annular and projects inwardly into the outer skirt 208.

[0159] The protuberance 214, in particular made of a single material with the rest of the cap 202, is advantageously composed of a material such as polypropylene or polyethylene terephthalate.

[0160] The groove 216 is set back in the internal surface of the external wall 206. It has a ring shape.

[0161] In the sealed closing position, the annular relief 64 of the collar 62 is received in the groove 216, as visible in [Fig.6].

[0162] The groove 216 advantageously has a maximum depth greater than the maximum height of the annular relief 64 of the collar 62, in particular between 105% and 110% of the maximum height of the annular relief 64 of the collar 62.

[0163] The depth of the groove 216 and the height of the collar 62 are measured in projection on the elevation axis A-A'.

[0164] Advantageously, the groove 216 is radially further from the center of the outer wall 206 than the protuberance 214.

[0165] The closure member 204 is here formed of an internal skirt projecting from the external wall 206 on the side of the external skirt 208. The internal skirt is cylindrical and solid.

[0166] The closure member 204 is radially closer to the center of the outer wall 206 than the protrusion 214 and the groove 216. The protrusion 214 and the groove 216 are thus arranged in the intermediate space between the outer skirt 208 and the closure member 204.

[0167] The height of the closure member 204 is generally less than that of the external skirt 208. It is for example between 20% and 95% of the height of the external skirt 208, in projection on the elevation axis A-A'.

[0168] In the sealed closing position, the cap 202 is mounted by screwing onto the neck 26 of the bottle 16, the internal thread 210 being engaged in the external thread 56. As visible in [Fig.2], the closure member 204 is arranged opposite the or each air passage vent 84, the closure member 204 closing the or each vent 84. The risk of cosmetic product rising through a vent 84 is therefore limited.

[0169] As seen in [Fig.6], in the sealed closure position, the contact between the protrusion 214 projecting from the cap 202 and an outer surface of the collar 62 of the connector 18 defines a first annular sealing region 218 on the collar 62.

[0170] Advantageously, the plug 202, and therefore the protrusion 214, are made of a relatively rigid and non-elastically deformable material. The watertight nature of the contact between the protrusion 214 and the collar 62 is ensured by the cooperation between the rigid material making up the plug 202 and the elastically deformable material making up the connector 18.

[0171] In this closed position, the annular relief 64 present on the collar 62 is housed in the groove 216 of the cap 202.

[0172] Advantageously, the annular relief 64 remains arranged away from the cap 202, which prevents it from being deformed, in particular irreversibly, during storage and transport of the refill 200. Thus, the annular relief 64 remains intact, and in particular not crushed or not deformed, before the first installation of the dispensing mechanism 22, which facilitates the establishment of a reliable seal after assembly of the dispensing mechanism 22.

[0173] In the mounted position of the distribution mechanism 22, visible in [Fig.l], the cooperation between the annular relief 64 of the collar 62 and the transverse wall 122 of the distribution mechanism 22 defines a second annular sealing region 220 on the collar 62.

[0174] The second annular sealing region 220 is disposed spaced apart from and around the first sealing region 218.

[0175] The first annular sealing region 218 is exclusively intended for creating a seal between the plug 202 and the collar 62 when the plug 202 is in its position for sealing the access passage 44.

[0176] The second annular sealing region 220 is exclusively intended for creating a seal between the distribution mechanism 22 and the collar 62.

[0177] Preferably, the second annular sealing region 220 is located axially opposite the outer edge 42 of the neck 26, in particular when this outer edge 42 has a bead 58. This is particularly useful when the distribution mechanism 22 has a flat transverse surface for achieving sealing.

[0178] An example of a method for manufacturing and assembling a refill 200 will now be described.

[0179] Initially, a pre-assembly of the dip tube 20, the connector 18 and the plug 202 is advantageously carried out to form at least one single-piece movable assembly.

[0180] For this purpose, the dip tube 20 is assembled on the connector 18 by inserting the fixing cylinder 102 of the connection region 70 into the inner conduit 108 of the dip tube 20.

[0181] The closure member 204 of the plug 202 is then inserted into the central receiving housing 74 of the connector 18. It closes each vent 84.

[0182] A bottle 16 having an empty interior volume 28 is provided.

[0183] The interior volume 28 is then filled with fluid cosmetic product, for example by an operator or via an automatic filling nozzle.

[0184] The assembly comprising the stopper 202, the connector 18 and the dip tube 20 is then inserted into the bottle 16, to place the connector 18 in its inserted position, by applying a force along the elevation axis A-A' directed towards the interior volume 28.

[0185] The stopper 202 is then assembled on the neck 26 of the bottle 16. In the example shown in the figures, the thread 210 of the external skirt 208 is engaged on the thread 65 of the neck 26 of the bottle 16.

[0186] The annular projection 76 is inserted into the concave intermediate region 48, under the upper undercut portion 52. This generates, by a shape effect, an axial force of stress of the collar 72 against the outer edge 42 of the neck 26, and before effectively a tight contact between the bead 58 and the collar 62.

[0187] The refill 200 is then hermetically sealed, allowing the storage of the refill 200, while avoiding alteration of the fluid cosmetic product.

[0188] A method of using the refill 200 will now be described.

[0189] Initially, when the packaging and dispensing device 12 has a bottle 16 that needs to be replaced, for example because the interior volume 28 has a low level of fluid cosmetic product or the cosmetic product has expired, the user enters a refill 200.

[0190] The user maneuvers the cap 202 to move it into its position for releasing the access passage 44.

[0191] As indicated above, the separation between the first annular sealing region 218 and the second annular sealing region 220, as well as the groove 216 present on the cap 202, guarantee that the collar 62 of the refill 200 always has an integral annular relief 64 after disassembly of the cap 202.

[0192] The user then grasps the packaging and dispensing device 12, then maneuvers the dispensing mechanism 22 in order to move it into its disassembled position away from the neck 26.

[0193] The user then grasps the bottle 16 of the refill 200. He then moves the dispensing mechanism 22 to mount it on the neck 26 of the refill 200, in order to place the dispensing mechanism 22 in the mounted position on the refill 200.

[0194] In the mounted position, a seal is formed between the distribution mechanism 22 and the connector 18, by contact between the transverse wall 122 of the distribution mechanism 22 and the annular relief 64 of the collar 62.

[0195] The cosmetic product present in the interior volume 28 of the refill 200 can now be dispensed to the user via the dispensing mechanism 22.

[0196] The cap 202 of the refill 200, as well as the bottle 16, the connector 18 and the dip tube 20 of the packaging and dispensing device 12 can then be recycled, while the dispensing mechanism 22 is reused.

[0197] Thanks to the invention which has just been described, a user can reuse the distribution mechanism 22 several times.

[0198] The cosmetic product packaging assembly 11, used both in the initial packaging and dispensing device 12 and in the refill 200, remains simple in design and use, ensuring reliably, and with a reduced number of parts, a sealed connection respectively with the dispensing mechanism 22 and with the cap 202. The use of the refill 200 is therefore easy for the user, while limiting the risk of contact with the cosmetic product during of manipulation.

[0199] Furthermore, the geometry of the neck 26 and the connector 18 ensures robust fixing of the connector 18 in the access passage 44 of the neck 26, including during erroneous handling by a user.

[0200] The reliability of the seal is also promoted by the radial spacing between, on the one hand, the sealing region 218 between the collar 62 and the cap 202 and, on the other hand, the sealing region 220 between the collar 62 and the dispensing mechanism 22.

[0201] Such a refill 200 therefore allows the reuse of the distribution mechanism 22 a large number of times.

[0202] The environmental and economic impact for the packaging and dispensing device 12 is therefore reduced, the dispensing mechanism 22 being one of the most complex parts to recycle. This result is nevertheless obtained while maintaining ease of handling for the user when using a refill.

Claims

Claims

1. Refill (200) intended to contain a fluid cosmetic product, the refill (200) being intended to be assembled in a sealed manner with a dispensing mechanism (22) for a fluid cosmetic product, the refill (200) comprising: - a bottle (16) having an interior volume (28) intended to contain a fluid cosmetic product, the bottle (16) having a neck (26) defining an access passage (44) to the interior volume (28) having an elevation axis (A-A'), - a connector (18) inserted into the neck (26), the connector (18) having a collar (62) arranged to bear on an outer edge (42) of the neck (26), - a cap (202) movable between a position for sealing the access passage (44) and a position for releasing the access passage (44),characterized in that the collar (62) has a first sealing region (218) between the cap (202) and the collar (62) and a second sealing region (220) between the dispensing mechanism (22) and the connector (18) arranged away from the first sealing region (218).,

2. The refill (200) of claim 1, wherein the second sealing region (220) comprises an annular relief (64), the annular relief (64) being intended to create a sealing contact between the collar (62) and the dispensing mechanism (22) when the dispensing mechanism (22) is assembled on the bottle (16).

3. Refill (200) according to claim 2, in which the cap (202) defines a groove (216) opposite the annular relief (64), the annular relief (64) being arranged in the groove (216) preferably completely away from the cap (202) in the sealed closing position of the access passage (44).

4. Refill (200) according to one of claims 2 or 3, in which the annular relief (64) is formed from an elastically deformable material.

5. Refill (200) according to claim 4, in which the annular relief (64) is formed in one piece with the collar (62).

6. Refill (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein one of the first sealing region (218) and the plug (202) comprises a protrusion (214), the other of the first sealing region (218) and the plug (202) having a surface for engagement with the protrusion (214), the protrusion (214) and the engagement surface having a sealing contact in the sealed closed position of the access passage (44).

7. A refill (200) according to claim 6, wherein the protrusion (214) or the surface for engaging the protrusion (214) is formed from an elastically deformable material.

8. A refill (200) according to any preceding claim, wherein the protrusion (214) is integral with one of the cap (202) and the collar (62).

9. A refill (200) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the protrusion (214) is annular.

10. A refill according to any preceding claim, wherein in the sealed position the first sealing region (218) is disposed radially closer to the elevation axis (A-A') than the second sealing region (220).

11. A kit comprising a refill (200) according to any one of the preceding claims and a dispensing mechanism (22) configured to be removably and sealingly mounted on the connector (18).

12. A kit according to claim 11, wherein the dispensing mechanism (22) comprises a contact surface with the second sealing region (220), the second sealing region (220) being in sealing contact with the contact surface, without the interposition of an intermediate sealing gasket, when the dispensing mechanism (22) is mounted on the connector (18).

13. A kit according to either of claims 11 or 12, wherein the dispensing mechanism (22) comprises a pump motor sealingly mounted in the connector (18).

14. A method of loading a cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device (12), the method comprising the following steps: - providing a kit according to any one of claims 11 to 13, the cap (202) being in the position of closing the access passage, the seal between the stopper (202) and the bottle (16) being achieved by the contact between the first sealing region (218) and the stopper (202), passage of the plug (202) into the release position of the access passage (44), assembly of the dispensing mechanism (22) on the refill (200), the sealing between the dispensing mechanism (22) and the bottle (16) being achieved by the contact between the second sealing region (220) and the dispensing mechanism (22).

Images