Refill intended to contain a liquid cosmetic product, necessary and associated loading or unloading process

Abstract

Refill for containing a liquid cosmetic product, necessary and associated loading / unloading method. The refill (200) comprises: a bottle (16) having a neck (26) defining an access passage (44) to the internal volume, a connector (18) having a collar disposed against an outer edge (42) of the neck (26), a cap (202) movable between a tight-sealing position of the access passage (44) and a release position of 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) disposed away from the first sealing region (218). Figure for the abbreviation: Figure 6

Description

Title of the invention: Refill for containing 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 hermetic manner with a fluid cosmetic product distribution mechanism, the refill comprising: - a bottle having an internal volume intended to contain a fluid cosmetic product, the bottle having a neck defining an access passage to the internal volume having an axis of elevation; - a connector inserted into the collar, the connector having a collar positioned to rest on an outer edge of the collar; - a movable plug between a watertight closing position of the access passage and a release position of the access passage.

[0002] The cosmetic product is, for example, a hair product, a hygiene product, a face 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 of 30 November 2009 on 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 in order to help meet global challenges.

[0005] It is therefore essential to design products that reduce the amount 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.

[0006] In this context, it is important to develop packaging that generates less waste, in particular optimized for the quantity of products transported, notably 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 eco-responsible reusable containers, in particular refillable or re-filled at home or in stores, in order to reduce the carbon footprint of packaging.

[0008] Consumers who regularly use a cosmetic product must make recurring purchases of packaging containing the same cosmetic product, this packaging being mostly for single use.

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

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

[0011] These complex components, particularly 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 mounted removablely on the bottle containing the cosmetic product. Thus, when the cosmetic product in the bottle is used up, the empty bottle can be disassembled and recycled. The pump is then assembled onto a refill 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] However, such a container is not entirely satisfactory. To ensure a seal with the cap during refill storage, the collar mounted on the bottle has a unique sealing area with an annular relief. The cap is applied to the relief to create a seal, but the relief is susceptible to irreversible deformation over time, for example, through wear.

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

[0016] Consequently, a sealing gasket is interposed between the dispensing mechanism and the collar. Handling this gasket by the user can be cumbersome and may require them 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 some 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 including refills are described in JP6164937B2, JP5578545B2, JP5578545B2, JP6023861B1, FR2927888A1, FR2931462A1, JP5250492B2, EP2409774A2 and EP2105209B1.

[0019] One object of the invention is therefore to offer a refill intended to contain a fluid cosmetic product which allows a user to reuse their pump several times, while while maintaining a good seal during successive user manipulations to mount a refill.

[0020] For this purpose, the invention relates to a refill intended to contain a fluid cosmetic product 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 disposed away from the first sealing region.

[0021] The presence of separate sealing regions for sealing, on the one hand, between the collar and the dispensing mechanism and, on the other hand, between the collar and the cap, allows for a specific sealing region on the collar to establish a reliable and easy-to-implement seal between the refill connector collar and the dispensing mechanism, after removal of the refill cap. This specific region is, for example, provided with an annular relief or is designed to have such an annular relief.

[0022] Thus, even if the stopper affects the first sealing realization region on the collar, causing deformation and / or material thinning, the second sealing realization 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 hermetically seal the refill during its storage and transport.

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

[0025] The annular relief ensures an effective and complete seal between the collar and the dispensing mechanism when the latter is assembled on the bottle. The simple annular shape also reduces manufacturing costs compared to complex sealing systems. Furthermore, the presence of this relief eliminates the need for a sealing gasket between the collar and the dispensing mechanism. Thus, it is not necessary to supply and assemble a separate part that could detach and be omitted during assembly by the user. The risk of contact with the cosmetic product is also 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 achievement of the seal during assembly Recharging the dispensing mechanism is therefore simple and reliable for the user.

[0027] According to one variant, the refill according to the invention comprises the following feature: - the plug defines a groove opposite the annular relief, the annular relief being disposed in the groove preferably totally away from the plug in the watertight closing position of the access passage.

[0028] The groove in 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 position of the access passage. Thus, even if high stress is present on the cap when it is mounted on the bottle, the annular relief, which ensures the seal between the collar and the dispensing mechanism, remains intact and is minimally subjected to wear.

[0029] According to one variant, the refill according to the invention comprises the following feature: - The annular relief is formed of an elastically deformable material.

[0030] The material of the annular relief is elastically deformable, which facilitates the creation of a tight seal between the collar and the dispensing mechanism, even in the absence of a separate annular seal. Furthermore, 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 one variant, the refill according to the invention comprises the following feature: - the annular relief is formed in one piece with the collar.

[0032] The annular relief is a single piece with the collar to increase the robustness, and therefore the reusability, of the second sealing region. Furthermore, manufacturing is simplified, since it is not necessary to reference several parts to assemble the connector onto the bottle.

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

[0034] The protrusion thus simply defines, without the addition of extra 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 collar depending on the materials used for each of these components.

[0035] According to one variant, the refill according to the invention comprises the following feature: - the protrusion or the surface of cooperation with the protrusion is formed of an elastically deformable material.

[0036] The material of the protrusion or the surface of cooperation with the protrusion is elastically deformable, which facilitates the creation of a tight seal between the flange and the plug, even in the absence of a separate annular seal. Furthermore, the elastic deformation absorbs variations in clamping force applied during plug assembly or any flatness defects.

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

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

[0039] The protrusion is preferably a single piece 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. Furthermore, manufacturing is simplified, since it is not necessary to reference several parts to assemble the connector onto the bottle.

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

[0041] The annular shape of the protrusion ensures an effective and complete seal between the collar and the cap when the latter is assembled onto the bottle. This annular shape is also easy to produce, particularly by molding, thus reducing manufacturing costs.

[0042] According to one variant, the refill according to the invention comprises the following feature: - in the sealed closing position, the first sealing realization region is arranged radially closer to the elevation axis than the second sealing realization 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 for the second sealing region to be located axially opposite the outer edge of the neck, especially when this outer edge has a raised rim. This is particularly useful when the distribution mechanism has a flat transverse surface for achieving the seal.

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

[0046] According to one variant, the necessary component comprises the following feature: - the distribution mechanism has a contact surface with the second sealing realization region, the second sealing realization region being in hermetic contact with the contact surface, without interposition of an intermediate sealing joint, when the distribution mechanism is mounted on the connector.

[0047] When replacing the bottle, a sealing gasket could remain attached to the collar of the used bottle and compromise the airtight seal of a new dispensing mechanism on a new bottle. The absence of a sealing gasket therefore facilitates handling when changing the refill. Furthermore, no gasket needs to be replaced or supplied by the user, which simplifies handling and reduces the risk of incorrect positioning or repositioning of such a gasket, which could lead to leaks between the dispensing mechanism and the connector.

[0048] According to one variant, the necessary component comprises the following feature: - the distribution mechanism includes 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 of closing the access passage, the seal between the cap and the bottle being achieved by the contact between the first sealing region and the cap; - passage of the plug into the position for releasing the access passage; - assembly of the dispensing mechanism on the refill, the seal between the dispensing mechanism and the bottle being achieved by the contact between the second sealing region and the dispensing mechanism.

[0050] The invention will be better understood upon reading the following description, given solely by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0051] [Fig-1] [Fig. 1] is a cross-sectional view along a median vertical plane of a cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device according to the invention, equipped with a removable dispensing mechanism,

[0052] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a cross-sectional view 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 cross-section along a median vertical plane, of a conditioning assembly of the conditioning and distribution device or 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 cross-sectional view of the refill's sealing cap,

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

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

[0058] An example of a cosmetic product packaging assembly 11 according to the invention can be seen in figures 1 to 3.

[0059] This packaging assembly 11 is intended to form part of either a cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device 12, visible in [Fig.1], or 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 seen in [Fig.1], the conditioning and dispensing device 12 comprises a conditioning assembly 11 including 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 conditioning 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 permit refilling of the bottle 16 through the connector 18 and the dip tube 20.

[0062] Bottle 16 is preferably made in one piece.

[0063] It includes here 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 internal volume 28 containing a fluid cosmetic product, the reservoir 24 extending along the elevation axis A-A' visible on the [Fig.1].

[0065] The reservoir 24 has 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 internal 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 entire reservoir 24 and neck 26, is / are formed of glass.

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

[0069] As can be seen in [Fig.3], the collar 26 protrudes from the shoulder 34 along the elevation axis A-A'.

[0070] With reference to [Fig.3], the neck 26 has 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 internal volume 28, the access passage 44 extending along the elevation axis A-A'. It opens inwards into the internal volume 28 and outwards to the outside of 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 on [Fig.3], the internal 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 includes at least one undercut part 52, 54.

[0075] Advantageously, the concave intermediate region 48 is annular and comprises a first upper part 52 with undercut, adjacent to the upper region 46 and a second lower part 54 with undercut, adjacent to the region lower 50. The first undercut part 52 and the second undercut part 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 in the upper region 46 closest to the elevation axis A-A' is located above the point in the concave intermediate region 48 furthest from the elevation axis A-A'.

[0078] The external surface 40 has 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 of glass, the outer edge 42 is not flat and includes for example a bead 58 projecting outwards.

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

[0082] As seen in [Fig.4], the connector 18 has an inner barrel 60 and an outer collar 62 projecting radially from 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 protrudes radially in a continuous manner around the barrel 60. It applies 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 shaft 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 dropped edge extending opposite the shaft 26.

[0087] The collar 62 defines an annular sealing relief 64 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 on the [Fig.3].

[0089] With reference in particular to figures 3 and 4, the barrel 60 presents successively, along the elevation axis A-A', an external region 66 for sealing the collar 62 with 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 shaft 60 has along 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 for the distribution mechanism 22.

[0092] The outer region for the realization of a seal 66 is adjacent to the collar 62. It includes a retaining projection 76 of generally annular shape, the retaining projection 76 extending radially away from the elevation axis A-A' from the outer 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 way of 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 on the outer edge 42 of the neck 26, the stress force being directed towards the inner 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 bear against 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 tension 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 has at least one axial notch 78 allowing gas to flow through the projection annular 76, especially 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 internal volume 28 by shape effect between the annular projection 76 and the concave intermediate region 48 ensures that the collar 62 is applied in a sealed manner on the outer edge 42 of the neck 26 over the entire periphery of the neck 26.

[0102] As can be seen in [Fig.4], the outer region for sealing 66 and the intermediate region for mechanical retention 68 define an annular constriction 80 at their junction.

[0103] The intermediate mechanical retaining 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 shimming the distribution mechanism 22, projecting into the central housing 74.

[0104] The protruding H-shaped structure 82 is designed to secure the connector 18 in the collar 26 when the connector 18 is in its inserted position. Each protruding H-shaped structure 82 extends from the outer surface 73 into the intermediate mechanical retention region 68.

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

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

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

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

[0109] The intermediate amount 94 also links the fins 96, 98 within a doublet 90, 92 together.

[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 protruding structures in H 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-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 passage of air between the internal 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 shaft 60 defines a parting line (not shown) passing through the elevation axis A-A' between two H-shaped structures 82. This parting line results from the demolding of the connector 18 during its manufacture. Advantageously, each vent 84 is provided by a shape within the parting line, so that the parting line passes through each vent 84.

[0115] The integration of the vents 84 into the parting line avoids having small diameter pins in the mold which could easily break and generate connectors 18 which would lack vents 84.

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

[0117] Each lower fin 86 is disposed under each vent 84 on the outer surface 73 in the intermediate mechanical retaining region 68. Each lower fin 86 extends axially from each vent 84 to the junction between the intermediate mechanical retaining region 68 and the connection region to the dip tube 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 retaining region 68. The upper internal stop 88 is disposed under the vent 84 along the elevation axis A-A'.

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

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

[0121] The receiving cylinder 100 is adjacent to the intermediate mechanical retaining region 68. It has a lower annular stop 104 for shimming 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 having here a conical end 106.

[0124] The connector 18 is advantageously made of and consisting of an elastically deformable material, in particular a material having a Young's modulus 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 engaging the fixing cylinder 102 in its outer end.

[0127] The dip tube 20 defines an internal conduit 108 connecting the internal 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 inner volume 28. It has a length adapted so that its lower end dips 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 a lower cost by an extrusion process, and made of a material such as polyethylene.

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

[0131] As seen in [Fig.1], the distribution mechanism 22 comprises a base 110, a pump body 112 mounted in the base 110, a distribution actuation member 114 operable by a user and optionally a cap 116.

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

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

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

[0135] The transverse connecting wall 122 protrudes perpendicularly to the axis of the outer fret 118 in the intermediate space between the outer fret 118 and the inner ring 120. It has an annular shape which closes the intermediate space.

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

[0137] In the mounted position, the transverse connecting wall 122 is arranged in tight 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 the seal.

[0138] This sealing is ensured with a minimum number of parts and in particular without the presence of sealing gaskets, 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 re-entry of air into the internal volume 28 during the actuation of the distribution mechanism 22 is carried out exclusively in a controlled manner by the vent or vent 84. This limits the risk of leakage of cosmetic product outside the internal volume 24.

[0140] In addition, the assembly / disassembly of the dispensing mechanism 22 to refill the bottle 16 is simplified and made more reliable by the absence of a sealing gasket, avoiding the need for the user to handle such a gasket (especially one soiled by cosmetic product) and / or to procure one for replacement.

[0141] The external flange 118 defines a receiving volume for the pump body 112, the pump body 112 comprising successively 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 watertight contact with the inner surface 72 of the intermediate mechanical retaining region 68 of the connector 18 by its cooperation with the upper internal stop 88. The second sleeve 128 is in watertight contact with the inner surface of the connection region to the plunger tube of the connector 70 by its cooperation with the lower annular stop 104.

[0143] The two sleeves 126, 128 define a space for a pump motor (not shown) intended to pump the liquid present in the internal volume 28 of the bottle 16 when a moving element of the pump motor is moved by the actuation member 114.

[0144] The actuation member 114 includes a hood 130 and a distribution nozzle 132.

[0145] The actuation member 114 protrudes outwards from the internal support ring 120.

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

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

[0148] The cap 116 is movable between a covering position of the distribution mechanism 22 and a use position of the distribution 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 includes 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 further detail.

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

[0152] The cap 202 is intended to hermetically seal the access passage 44 to the internal volume 28 defined by the neck 26 of the bottle 16 during the storage and transport of the refill 200. For the use of the refill 200, the cap 202 is movable between a hermetically sealed position of the access passage 44 and a position of release of the access passage 44.

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

[0154] Advantageously, the outer skirt 208 is cylindrical and extends around the elevation axis A-A' when the plug 202 is in its sealing position of 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 extends here perpendicularly to the elevation axis A-A' in the closed position. It closes the outer skirt 208.

[0157] The outer wall 206 for sealing purposes includes on its inner surface, a protrusion 214 and a groove 216.

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

[0159] The protrusion 214, in particular formed from 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 recessed in the internal surface of the outer wall 206. It has a ring shape.

[0161] In the sealed closed 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 protrusion 214.

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

[0166] The sealing 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 sealing member 204.

[0167] The height of the obturator 204 is generally less than that of the outer skirt 208. For example, it is between 20% and 95% of the height of the outer skirt 208, in projection on the elevation axis A-A'.

[0168] In the sealed position, the cap 202 is screwed onto the neck 26 of the bottle 16, the internal thread 210 being engaged in the external thread 56. As seen in [Fig.2], the sealing member 204 is positioned opposite the air vent 84, the sealing member 204 sealing the vent 84. The risk of cosmetic product rising through a vent 84 is therefore limited.

[0169] As seen in [Fig.6], in the sealed closed position, the contact between the protrusion 214 protruding from the plug 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 elastically non-deformable material. The sealing nature of the contact between the protrusion 214 and the collar 62 is ensured by the interaction between the rigid material composing the plug 202 and the elastically deformable material composing the connector 18.

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

[0172] Advantageously, the annular relief 64 remains positioned away from the cap 202, which prevents it from being deformed, in particular irreversibly, during the storage and transport of the refill 200. Thus, the annular relief 64 remains intact, and in particular not crushed or 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.1], 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 away 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 sealing position of 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 the seal.

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

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

[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 sealing member 204 of the plug 202 is then inserted into the central receiving housing 74 of the connector 18. It seals each vent 84.

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

[0183] The internal 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 cap 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 internal volume 28.

[0185] The cap 202 is then assembled onto the neck 26 of the bottle 16. In the example shown in the figures, the thread 210 of the outer 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 part 52. This generates, by a shape effect, an axial stress force of the collar 72 against the outer edge 42 of the neck 26, and advantageously a watertight contact between the bead 58 and the collar 62.

[0187] The 200 refill is then hermetically sealed, allowing the 200 refill to be stored, while preventing alteration of the fluid cosmetic product.

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

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

[0190] The user maneuvers the plug 202 to move it into its release position from 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, ensure that the collar 62 of the refill 200 always has an integral annular relief 64 after removal of the cap 202.

[0192] The user then grasps the conditioning and dispensing device 12, and 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 inner volume 28 of the refill 200 can now be distributed 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 conditioning and dispensing device 12 can then be recycled, while the dispensing mechanism 22 is reused.

[0197] Thanks to the invention just 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, reliably ensuring, with a reduced number of parts, a leak-proof 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 handling.

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

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

[0201] Such a recharge 200 therefore allows the distribution mechanism 22 to be reused a large number of times.

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

Claims

Demands

1. Refill (200) intended to contain a fluid cosmetic product, the refill (200) being intended to be hermetically sealed with a fluid cosmetic product dispensing mechanism (22), the refill (200) comprising: - a bottle (16) having an internal volume (28) intended to contain a fluid cosmetic product, the bottle (16) having a neck (26) defining an access passage (44) to the internal volume (28) having an axis of elevation (A-A'), - a connector (18) inserted into the neck (26), the connector (18) having a collar (62) disposed to bear against an outer edge (42) of the neck (26), - a cap (202) movable between a hermetically sealed closing position of the access passage (44) and a release position of 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) disposed away from the first sealing region (218), in that the connector (18) has an inner barrel (60) and an outer collar (62) projecting radially from the barrel (60), and in that the collar (62) is devoid of a folded edge extending opposite the barrel (26).

2. Refill (200) according to claim 1, wherein the second sealing realization region (220) comprises an annular relief (64), the annular relief (64) being intended to create a leak-proof 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, wherein the plug (202) defines a groove (216) opposite the annular relief (64), the annular relief (64) being disposed in the groove (216) preferably totally away from the plug (202) in the watertight closing position of the access passage (44).

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

5. Refill (200) according to claim 4, wherein 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 realization region (218) and the plug (202) has a protrusion (214), the other of the first sealing realization region (218) and the plug (202) having a cooperation surface with the protrusion (214), the protrusion (214) and the cooperation surface having a sealing contact in the sealing closed position of the access passage (44).

7. Refill (200) according to claim 6, wherein the protrusion (214) or the cooperation surface with the protrusion (214) is formed of an elastically deformable material.

8. Refill (200) according to any one of claims 6 or 7, wherein the protrusion (214) is integral with one of the cap (202) and collar (62).

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

10. Refill according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein in the sealed closing position, the first sealing realization region (218) is arranged radially closer to the elevation axis (A-A') than the second sealing realization region (220).

11. Necessary comprising a refill (200) according to any one of the preceding claims and a dispensing mechanism (22) configured to be mounted removablely and leak-proof on the connector (18).

12. Necessary according to claim 11, wherein the distribution mechanism (22) has a contact surface with the second sealing realization region (220), the second sealing realization region (220) being in hermetic contact with the contact surface, without interposition of an intermediate sealing gasket, when the distribution mechanism (22) is mounted on the connector (18).

13. Necessary according to any one of claims 11 or 12, wherein the dispensing mechanism (22) comprises a pump motor hermetically mounted in the connector (18).

14. A method for loading a cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device (12), the method comprising the following steps: - supplying a device according to any one of claims 11 to 13, the stopper (202) being in the closed position of 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 position for releasing the access passage (44), - assembly of the dispensing mechanism (22) on the refill (200), the seal 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