Wringer assembly, packaging device for a cosmetic product including the layout and assembly of the device using a two-stage connector

Abstract

The wringer assembly (1) equips a container with a product conditioning device and allows a hood-type applicator element to be mounted on the sleeve (5a) of a connector (5) of the assembly. The connector (5) includes an annular inner face within the sleeve for the axial insertion of the tubular body (3), which incorporates a wringing element (8). This body is held axially above a lower compartment (Cr2) delimited by another annular inner face (F50) of the connector (5). The connector is attached to the upper part of the container, which is received in the lower compartment, by a locking action using anchoring ridges (36, 37) that cooperate with an external peripheral region of the container. The assembly consisting of the connector and the tubular body has a sealing element (30) which extends into the compartment (Cr2), under the wiping edge (31) of the wringing element (8), to cover and press against the container.Figure for the abbreviation: Figure 2.

Description

Title of the invention: Wringer arrangement, packaging device for a cosmetic product including the arrangement and assembly of the DEVICE USING A TWO-STAGE CONNECTOR technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of packaging devices that ensure proper preservation and application of products, particularly cosmetic, makeup, or perfume products, and more specifically to devices with a container made of a rigid material such as glass, into which a brush / applicator is mounted and must be wiped dry after each use. The product may be liquid or viscous, which typically facilitates its application.

[0002] This disclosure relates to a wringer arrangement that can be fitted to a container / receptacle used to directly hold the product (for example, of the cosmetic or similar type), including a component that incorporates the wringer element and a connector that combines the functions of connecting the container and securing the component with the wringer element, typically allowing the connection of an applicator component that forms a lid to close off access to the container from above. This disclosure also relates to a method of assembling the container using a connector or adapter coupler that allows the inner container to be separated laterally from the outer container.

[0003] For packaging cosmetic products or similar fluids to be applied using an applicator, a wiping function is required. For this purpose, a wiping device is provided at the neck of the bottle that forms the product storage container. US patent 2023 / 0078841 A1 describes an example of a structure for the part forming the wiping device, allowing the device to be mounted in the threaded neck of the container. The wiping element can be incorporated into an annular technical component, one end of which, for example in the form of a collar, rests against the free edge of the neck. This technical component, which has a central recess, is traversed both when the applicator is inserted into and removed from the container. The wiping element includes a wiping or scraping edge at the end of an annular lip, where the cross-section of the central recess is narrowed to a minimum, so as to allow for metering or at least limiting the amount of product remaining on the applicator. The lip can also be used to wipe the applicator stem in order to that the user does not get their hands dirty with the product when handling it outside the container.

[0004] Increasingly, in the cosmetics industry, the product to be applied using an applicator is stored in a container made of an inert material, such as glass, replacing the plastic in the bottle / container that houses this container. This facilitates recycling, on the one hand, and avoids problems of chemical compatibility with the product being packaged, on the other. With the aim of limiting the use of disposable plastic containers, document FR 3005835 describes a product applicator assembly that involves mounting a small tubular part on the neck of a bottle (which may be made of glass). This tubular part includes a wiping / scraping mechanism for removing excess product carried by the applicator. To ensure the part remains airtight within the neck, production difficulties are encountered: - the part typically requires a complex structure (which severely limits the choice of material), - the deformation required for the airtight connection is significant, which creates difficulties or even impossibilities in achieving a correct and quick assembly when the bottle opening is very small.

[0005] There is therefore a need for mounting solutions which remain simple, without altering the visual appearance of the packaging device, and which are compatible with the growing need for miniaturization of packaging containers, in particular to facilitate mobile use.

[0006] In order to improve the situation, a wringer arrangement is proposed for a product container to be applied by means of an applicator, this arrangement comprising: - a tubular body including a wringer element with a circumferential section or lower edge, internal, allowing wiping (therefore able to come into contact with the applicator); - a connector having a lower end and an upper end, the connector comprising a sleeve forming a first annular portion extending longitudinally around a central axis to the upper end, the sleeve delimiting a central passage serving as the first receiving compartment for the axial insertion of the tubular body; and - a second receiving compartment internally delimited by a second annular portion of the connector, being located directly above the first receiving compartment, said second annular portion being able to surround an upper annular end of the container in a locked state, axially, of the connector with respect to the container; with the particularity that the arrangement includes an annular sealing element or means which is: - adapted to make a watertight ring contact on the container, in the locked state; - included in one of the tubular body and the connector; and - placed under the central passage and under the circumferential section or lower wiping edge, knowing that this sealing element or means can, for example, be formed or housed internally in the second compartment.

[0007] With these arrangements, it is possible to achieve two connections via the connector (two-stage / compartment connectors), typically made in one piece, by placing the tubular body with the wringing element in the first compartment. This allows the lower edge, which performs the wiping, to be held offset above the container and concealed by the connector sleeve. In other words, it is advantageously unnecessary to position any wiping element (most often conical in shape) inside the container. The sleeve can form an extension extending entirely above the upper annular end of the connector. The lower edge can form the bottom of a cone / truncated cone-shaped surface narrowing towards the case or a concave crater shape (like the inside of a crater).

[0008] This solution allows for a multi-material assembly, with the connector sleeve forming the applicator's mounting collar (the handle of which can form a cap) while internally housing the wringing / wiping component. The wringer body is an insert assembled by clamping onto the top of the bottle or container, inserted into the sleeve which is offset from the container. This design significantly reduces the width of the container's end that fits into the second receiving compartment. The connector assembly, which may include or be made of plastic, provides an optimal compromise for minimizing the radial footprint of the device combining the container (glass, for example) and the wringer assembly, positioning the wringer in a sealed area, and ensuring a robust attachment of the wiping part. In contrast, with a tubular body with a wiping element mounted on a glass neck, a comparable reduction in diameter would not be possible under mass production conditions.

[0009] The wringer arrangement forms two compartments, each with a cross-section chosen independently of that provided for the other compartment. This allows it to adapt to a wide variety of rigid containers, including those with very narrow necks or small internal diameters, without compromising the robustness of the wringer assembly. The container material is Typically mineral and / or rigid, and may be glass, ceramic, or other inorganic material. The connector may consist of a single piece. Advantageously, a seal is achieved with a simple assembly (using for example only two parts: the connector and the tubular body) to prevent flow of product from the inside of the tubular body to an outside area, for example by preventing such flow to an outer periphery of the upper annular end of the container.

[0010] The annular seal can be achieved synchronously with a clipping or rotational engagement of the connector, which locks into a sufficient / appropriate insertion position of the upper annular end in the second receiving compartment. In some options, a clipping may be preferred to a screw or bayonet-type fastening in the peripheral fastening area provided on the upper annular end of the container, insofar as the axial force on the sealing element can be better controlled, without the possibility, for example, of accidental disconnection or release of the axial pressure to be exerted on the free edge of the container.

[0011] The arrangement allows the part forming the wringer element to be mounted above the neck or upper annular end of the container, without the need to insert a wiping part. Typically, no part of this component penetrates the container, so the wringer assembly remains entirely outside the container. This is advantageous when there are significant constraints on reducing radial dimensions, particularly when the internal diameter of the top opening (which defines access to the inside of the container) is very small, for example, 1 cm or less. The assembly, which can be part of a pre-assembled interface, allows the applicator to be mounted by attaching it to the sleeve, which may have an external screw-on or other external fastening area. This makes it possible to mount a hood-type applicator element onto the connector sleeve of the assembly, for example, with the sleeve forming a male connection to cooperate with a hollow / annular cavity of a female component formed around a stem of the applicator.

[0012] This arrangement can be fitted to containers of any type having an upper end with an external circumferential face featuring gripping ridges. For example, it allows a ring of the container to form a male organ that connects to the female organ formed by the second annular portion, so that this ring (or upper annular end) is housed and held axially in the second upper compartment. In the assembled position, The arrangement can maintain the sealing contact by a pulling effect (downwards) obtained by reliefs or elements engaging under a gripping edge provided on the upper annular end of the container, in particular on a peripheral fixing region of this end, in the locked state.

[0013] In embodiments, the second receiving compartment may have at least one of the following features: - a delimiting face of the second compartment has an elongated internal protrusion along the longitudinal direction (corresponding to the height), which can allow for example a rotational indexing effect relative to a ring / upper annular end of the container. - a boundary face of the second compartment has at least one relief of shorter height than the elongated projecting internal relief and is suitable for fitting into a circumferential groove or hollow provided on the upper ring or annular end of the container. - the second receiving compartment is wider than the first receiving compartment and / or allows to accommodate an end portion (for example in the form of a lower collar) of the tubular body which extends lower than the wringing element. - the second annular portion forms an external skirt of the connector which is made in one piece of plastic, so that the two compartments are two complementary sub-zones which together constitute the central hollow traversing axially the connector. - the annular connector, is formed from a single piece and delimits a hollow internal space (single central hollow), the connector having in the first annular portion a first internal face on which the tubular body is fixed or against which it fits, while the second receiving compartment is delimited by a second internal face on which the upper annular end of the body is fixed, preferably without the possibility of rotation. - the connector surmounts a body, preferably made of glass, of the container by presenting a radial portion which is located in a transition zone between the first receiving compartment and the second receiving compartment, this radial portion being opposite / facing an upper free edge of the container where the axial opening (of this container) formed in the upper annular end is delimited.

[0014] The wringer arrangement provides robust support for the tubular body that performs the wringing function, with a precise fit of the tubular body into the first receiving compartment, without the need for a radially or axially interposed element between the tubular body and the connector (no intermediate part surrounding the tubular body). The assembly process remains simple, with a two-piece design, while still ensuring a watertight seal. an area hidden by the second tubular portion to prevent the product from flowing radially outwards underneath. In some design variations, a third, annular seal can be incorporated by combining with the connecting piece on the container that delineates the compartments, thus forming, for example, a two-piece connector (at least two pieces). Alternatively, a separate or overmolded seal can be used, formed to extend the tubular body downwards, which can provide axial sealing against the container (for example, against the free edge of the container). In this case, the tubular body can be formed from an assembly of at least two pieces.

[0015] In embodiments, one or more of the following features may be used: - the connector has a first internal face formed on the sleeve for friction contact with the tubular body and / or for axial retention of the tubular body, for example by means of one or more retention reliefs formed on this first internal face. - the connector has a second internal, annular face, formed at or near the lower end, to delimit all or part of the second receiving compartment. - the second inner, annular face, which can extend to the lower end of the connector, is formed in the second portion which constitutes an outer skirt of the connector. - the second inner face extends downwards from a radial portion of the connector which is located at the junction between the two compartments / two annular walls. - the second inner face is provided with one or more internal hooking reliefs, preferably projecting radially inwards, to cooperate with a peripheral fixing region provided on a circumferential outer face of the container, at the upper annular end, so that the second inner face achieves the locking to obtain the locked state. - the second inner face allows a fixed connection of the connector relative to the container in the locked state. - the second inner face extends entirely above the tubular wall of the container body, this tubular wall being wider than the neck provided at the upper annular end of the body. - a collar of the tubular body is connected to an external lateral wall of the tubular body whose smallest external diameter (on an external circumference of this lateral wall) is greater than an internal diameter of the axial opening of the container (which is preferably an opening of circular cross-section), formed in the neck or in the upper annular end. - The second internal face is a fixing face that allows axial retention of the assembly relative to the upper annular end of the container. - The wringing element extends into the first receiving compartment to form a constriction that locally defines a minimum of the passage cross-section for the passage of an applicator rod. - the minimum of the passage section, inside the tubular body, is formed by the lower wiping edge. - the minimum can correspond to an inner diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the upper annular end of the container. - the second annular portion, located opposite the upper end, is connected to the sleeve in a transition zone where an internal annular shoulder is formed, the second receiving compartment being underlying the first receiving compartment which has an axial lower outlet at a lower end of the sleeve (this lower end being annular and being able to be located axially at the level of the junction / transition with the external skirt of the connector).

[0016] The lower edge of the wiping element may define an opening at the lower end of the wringing element, which is housed in the connector sleeve, for example, under an external mounting area provided on the sleeve for attaching the applicator. The tubular body may be surrounded by the sleeve and by a mounting skirt provided on the applicator, which is, for example, fixed or locked in position on the sleeve in response to a relative rotation between the female mounting skirt and the male sleeve, inserted into the corresponding hollow mounting area formed around the applicator shaft.

[0017] By way of non-limiting example: - the lower wiping edge can optionally be a free edge of the tubular body, for example provided opposite a collar which opposes a downward (axial) indentation of the tubular body into the first receiving compartment, beyond its final mounting position. - the lower edge is a free edge in relation to the axial opening in the assembled state of the container. - the lower wiping edge can optionally be a hidden edge in the tubular body, which has a lower skirt with a collar that opposes upward (axial) indentation of the tubular body through the first receiving compartment, beyond its final mounting position. - the minimum of the passage section can be located, axially, between two flared portions which are joined by the circumferential section or edge (lower edge of the spin part which descends while narrowing).

[0018] In certain embodiments, the tubular body can achieve sealing by direct axial, annular contact with the container. More generally, the wringer arrangement provides an annular sealing element with a compressible axial contact portion, which is, for example, included in an annular skirt or extension that extends the tubular body below the level of the lower edge or wiping zone with a minimum cross-section of the central passage of this body. The tubular body can perform two functions: wringing the applicator rod / rod and sealing against the container surface.

[0019] When this type of sealing element is provided, the arrangement may include one or more of the following features: - the lower axial opening of the first compartment is delimited by an inner edge of the inner annular shoulder. - an annular collar of the tubular body (collar forming an external edge), or similar edge / lower part of grip is provided to rest axially, from below, against the annular inner shoulder. - the second receiving compartment, wider than the first receiving compartment, houses the collar or lower part of the tubular body. - the collar or lower part of the tubular body (at the lower end of this body) has one or more annular, compressible sealing reliefs, formed axially in projection on an underside of the collar or lower end. - the lower face is located opposite / opposite to an upper face of the collar in axial contact with the connector. - the collar can correspond to the lower end of the tubular body, being formed on an outer skirt which is arranged coaxially around the wringing element by which the narrowing of the passage is obtained for the wiping function (wringing). - the tubular body can rest axially from above against the edge (free edge) of the upper annular end of the container, while being positioned entirely outside the container (above the neck).

[0020] According to one embodiment, the annular sealing element or means is formed in or carried by a lower flange of the tubular body, which is mounted from below the connector. The flange or similar externally rimmed part prevents axial upward movement of the wringer element, which is typically located in the first receiving compartment, preferably by axially abutting against an internal relief or shoulder of the connector. In the assembled state on the container, the seal is achieved by applying pressure to the wringing body (tubular body) against the free edge / top of the container.

[0021] In certain embodiments, the connector can achieve the seal, for example, by clamping onto a neck or upper annular end of the container, thus creating an annular sealing zone on the inside of the container. In this case, the connector has an axial lip or skirt (inner skirt) to make annular contact on an annular portion of the inner face of the annular end. This skirt is offset inwards relative to the second annular portion used for axial locking between the connector and the container. Through a stress effect (resilience of the connector material), the inner skirt is radially pressed against the rigid material of the container by its outer surface.

[0022] When the connector has an inner skirt / lip to achieve this connector-container seal, the lower axial opening can be delimited by an inner rim formed on the top of the inner skirt or axial, annular lip of this connector. The inner skirt or axial lip can form the sealing element by being inserted through an upper axial opening of the container during the placement of the upper annular end in the second receiving compartment.

[0023] The annular sealing element or means, bearing against the container, may comprise or consist of an annular inner skirt of the connector, shaped as an annular insertion portion of the connector for insertion into the container. The inner skirt is adapted to insert into the upper annular end, projecting axially downward into the second receiving compartment. This inner skirt is located lower than the tubular body. Preferably, the annular inner skirt connects radially to a boundary face of one of said receiving compartments. The wringing element defines an axial passage section that narrows as it approaches a shoulder area where the inner annular skirt connects radially to the boundary face of one of the receiving compartments.

[0024] In all cases, regardless of the part that includes the sealed contact portion with the container, an annular seal can be provided in the central recess defined by the first and second annular portions, by means of a sealing device that is concealed by the side wall of the connector and carried under the wringing element.

[0025] In the options for implementing the arrangement, at least one of the following features may be provided: - the lower edge, for example in the form of a free edge facing the top / axial opening of the container, is axially offset from the annular inner skirt of the connector, the tubular body being held axially by the first inner face, preferably having an insertion position in the sleeve which is a predetermined position. - the axial retention of the tubular body is achieved by means of at least one relief provided internally on the first internal face and cooperating with a complementary fixing element, preferably annular, provided on an external periphery of the tubular body. - the second inner face is provided in the second annular portion of the connector which constitutes a skirt connected, preferably directly connected, to a radial portion of the connector (radial portion which may be located under a fixing area, provided on the sleeve, for the connection of an external part of the applicator / gripping handle). - the second inner face extends only under the radial portion. - the second inner face or the second annular portion is provided with at least one elastically deformable flexible portion, delimited by slits or grooves in the thickness of the second annular portion. - each flexible portion is adapted to clip / engage by radial elastic return effect inwards in the peripheral fixing region, which allows the locked state to be obtained.

[0026] According to one aspect, a product conditioning device is proposed which is extracted axially using a hood-type applicator, with a mounting interface allowing the spin-drying and sealing functions to be integrated on top of the product storage container, thus optimizing the robustness of the assembly while avoiding welding or crimping steps. For this purpose, the product packaging device (product to be applied using a dip applicator inside the container) includes: - the wringer arrangement as described above, the central axis of the sleeve of this arrangement forming a longitudinal axis of passage for a rod of the applicator; and - the container which has an upper annular end provided with a fixing region, which extends over a body of the container, to hold the upper annular end internally in the second receiving compartment of the connector.

[0027] In preferred designs, for example when the container is made of glass, the upper annular end has a neck which has the attachment region on its outer periphery, this attachment region including anti-rotation means, placed / housed in the second receiving compartment in the assembled state of the device. The anti-rotation means provided on the container allow the connector to be locked (rotational lock) in a mounting position by cooperating with anti-rotation reliefs provided on the second inner face.

[0028] According to one particular feature, the second annular portion has one or more longitudinal ribs that project radially inwards, preventing the relative rotation of the connector around the neck by engaging in a longitudinal notch or groove formed in the neck. These ribs form the anti-rotation features provided on the second inner face.

[0029] Typically when the container is filled with the product, the device is hermetically sealed, on the one hand due to a container-wringer arrangement seal (made internally in the second receiving compartment), and on the other hand due to a hermetically sealed connection of the applicator which includes a cover in the form of a gripping handle of the applicator, on the sleeve of the wringer arrangement (seal which is made around the first receiving compartment, outside of this first compartment). It is understood that the device, comprising the applicator with its gripping handle and a rod carrying the brush or product application element (contained within the container body), can axially retain the applicator by means of a male connection element in the connector sleeve. For example, the sleeve is a male connection element, preferably cylindrical in shape with a thread or screw-on components, suitable for the fixed mounting of a cap provided in the gripping handle.

[0030] Optionally, a retaining skirt is provided around the stem to form the complementary female part of the sleeve, defining an annular hollow area for sleeve insertion. The retaining skirt can overlap the outer skirt of the connector, which forms the second annular portion, completely surrounding the sleeve.

[0031] In embodiments of the connector, one or more of the following characteristics are provided: - The inner face of the sleeve (delimiting the first compartment) can retain the tubular body / part with a wringing function in its insertion position, by presenting an anchoring relief, preferably in the form of an annular groove which is typically located in an intermediate position along the direction of the central axis of the sleeve. - The connector is surrounded by a piece forming a collar, the collar having an upper opening for the passage of the sleeve which protrudes axially from above relative to the top of the collar. - the fret laterally wraps, preferably selectively, the second annular portion of the connector. - the fret-forming piece tightens the second annular portion, compressing it radially inwards / against the peripheral fixing region. - the fret locks the clamping of the connector on the upper annular end, for example by compressing inwards one or more flexible parts of the second annular portion. - at least one anti-rotation relief is provided externally on the connector and / or on an inner face of the fret, in order to prevent relative rotation around the longitudinal axis between the part forming the fret and the connector.

[0032] The connector can cover a neck of the container by its radial portion and also cooperates with (by covering) the attachment region by its second annular portion, which can extend lower than the radial portion to define the second receiving compartment. In the assembled state, only the body of the container is visible. In all that follows, this container alone forms a reservoir of the device and an external tubular wall of the device, typically without the need for the container body to be covered by an added external wall. Although a single-compartment container without a partition is typically provided, it is understood that the internal structure of the container is not limiting as long as this container functions as a reservoir.

[0033] In various embodiments of the device according to the invention, one may optionally also use one and / or the other of the following provisions: - the external body of the container and / or the container is made from a single piece. - the container has a top opening, the connector playing no role in blocking access to the top opening. - the container has a circular cross-section, at least on the side of the upper annular end. - the inner face of the sleeve extends upwards from the radial portion of the connector. - the glass or inorganic material body is an external body of the device, provided with a neck forming all or part of the upper annular end. - the neck includes the external peripheral / circumferential fixation region in contact with the second internal face. - the fixing region is provided with pairs of fixing elements which form housings or grooves cooperating with inwardly projecting reliefs provided on the second annular portion of the connector (projecting from the second inner face), each pair having for example a pair of gripping edges delimiting between them a housing / groove (into which a respective notch engages), in order to lock the connector in rotation relative to the body. - the upper end of the body delimits at least one annular groove forming all or part of the peripheral attachment region. - the upper end of the body has, in the peripheral region of attachment, radially projecting reliefs which do not exceed by more than 2 mm a nominal surface level which goes around the neck or similar upper end of the body. - the container is a glass bottle made from a single piece and including the peripheral region of attachment on a portion of the lateral surface of a neck adjacent to a shoulder of the bottle. - at least one flexible portion, preferably made in the form of a portion with radial outward movement, is thinned compared to the rest of the outer skirt. - In the peripheral fixing region, two groups of axial stop members are provided to co-act to maintain at least one inwardly projecting member provided in the outer skirt / second annular portion at a predetermined axial level and / or in a predetermined angular position, the axial stop members of one of the two groups being able to push radially outwards at least one flexible portion.

[0034] In various embodiments of the device according to the invention, one of the following arrangements or a combination of several of the following arrangements may be provided: - a locked configuration is obtained when each protruding relief or internal lug of the second annular portion is placed in a corresponding lateral cavity. - an arrangement with anti-rotation means or with a groove of discontinuous depth, and relatively elongated connector lugs, using at least two lateral cavities of the peripheral fixing region, can be used to secure the fixing and prevent accidental disconnection. - when the connector has axial slots, in the same outer skirt which is generally tubular in shape, it is possible to obtain a clearance which facilitates assembly and disassembly operations. - such slots can advantageously be hidden by an annular piece, for example a fret-forming piece, which surrounds the outer skirt or even the entire connector.

[0035] Optionally, the connector may have, in the second annular portion, forming an outer skirt: - at least one flexible portion, preferably in the form of a portion with radial outward movement, which is preferably thinner than the rest of the connector, knowing that all or part of the fastening means enabling axial retention of the container are located in the at least one flexible portion. When the connector has axial slots, in the same outer skirt which is generally tubular in shape (skirt belonging to the connector), each of the slots is preferably designed to separate a flexible portion of the skirt from an adjacent portion of the skirt which is more rigid than said flexible portion.

[0036] According to another aspect, an assembly method is proposed to obtain the aforementioned conditioning device, by mounting the tubular body equipped with the wringing element in the first receiving compartment of the connector and by connecting the upper annular end of the container through an axial opening of the lower end of the connector, the method comprising the following steps: - retaining the tubular body against a gripping edge of an internal shoulder or a groove belonging to the connector in an inserted position of the tubular body in the first receiving compartment; - by means of a sealing element which extends respectively under the grip edge, under the central passage of the sleeve defining the first receiving compartment and under said circumferential section or lower wiping edge, to form an annular sealing contact against the upper annular end of the container, by inserting, in an axial direction parallel to and with a centering along the central axis of the sleeve, the upper annular end into the second receiving compartment of the sleeve underlying the first compartment, until the connection of the upper annular end is locked, which is placed entirely under the tubular body.

[0037] The sealing element belongs to the assembly formed by the connector and the tubular body, which is typically an assembly consisting of only two plastic parts. The assembly is thus achieved without the need to complicate the tubular body, which includes the wringing element, or the upper annular end of the container near the axial opening or internally in the neck, without the need for welding, since axial tightening is possible by the engagement of the top of the container inside the second receiving compartment. A friction-fit insertion can be used to retain the tubular body's insertion portion within the sleeve, resulting in a pre-assembled wringer arrangement. Mounting onto the neck or upper end of the container can then be carried out.

[0038] The container is typically made of a more rigid material than the connector material. The connection made by the second annular portion can be achieved without rotation, at least in a final coupling action resulting in the connection being locked to the container. The second annular portion may optionally be thinner than the rest of the connector and / or thinned and provided with slots to provide flexibility in the part surrounding the peripheral attachment region intended for the container. Optionally, longitudinal ribs stiffening elements are provided internally on the second internal face, being distributed in angular sectors other than axial retaining lugs.

[0039] The connector, which is for example made in one piece, may have some flexibility, at least in the second annular portion, to connect to the peripheral fixing region of the rigid container, without including the sealing element. In this case, the tubular body may: - insert from below the connector to fill the first receiving compartment; and - have a collar or similar end that butts against a transition zone / radial portion (for example in the form of an internal shoulder of the connector) belonging to the connector. The collar can be housed in a bottom of the second receiving compartment and include, on the side opposite the shoulder or transition zone against which it abuts axially, at least one relief, lip or sealing bead which is projecting downwards, so as to be able to bear axially by forming an annular sealing contact against the axial face of the free edge (annular, extending around the axial upper opening of the container) of the container when the latter is connected to the connector and held anchored to axially push back (upwards) the sealing relief(s) of the collar.

[0040] In options with such a collar or end with an axial stop, the tubular body may then have a skirt that surrounds the wringing element and carries the collar as its lower end, located lower than the lower wiping edge of the wringing element. Such a skirt may have external ridges for a friction effect and / or an anti-rotation effect with respect to the first inner face of the connector. This can facilitate handling of the wringer assembly before coupling it with the container, preventing accidental withdrawal of the tubular body from the first receiving compartment, even in the absence of specific internal retaining ridge(s) on the first inner face.

[0041] In some variations, the connector can incorporate the sealing element as a portion or annular skirt projecting downwards from a radial portion of the connector. The radial portion is, for example, interposed between the sleeve and the outer skirt / second annular portion of the connector, allowing them to be separated. Here too, the connector can be made in one piece, while still having some flexibility in certain areas for contact against the upper annular end of the container. The lip or skirt can interact with the ridges or lugs that grip the upper annular end, to tighten the upper annular end and have a self-sealing effect, when this end enters the area of ​​the second compartment which is delimited between the second annular portion bearing these ridges / lugs and the lip or skirt. When a ferrule is provided, the radial clamping is increased to reinforce the sealing contact at the same time (crimpless mounting of the connector on the container, and commonly called "crimpless" mounting in English).

[0042] In this latter case, the tubular body can be: - without extension (without skirt) to form the sealing element; and - equipped with a top collar or upper end. In this case, the inner face of the sleeve may include at least one internal retaining relief to cooperate with a complementary fastening means, for example, radially projecting outwards, formed on the tubular body, preferably in a region offset higher relative to the wringing element.

[0043] Regardless of the mounting direction of the tubular body, a clip-on insertion can be used to retain the insertion portion of the tubular body within the sleeve, thus providing a pre-assembled wringer arrangement. Mounting on the neck or upper end of the container can be carried out subsequently. In the case of bottom insertion, with or without clips, the final position of the tubular body within the connector sleeve can be achieved only when the container compresses the lower flange of the tubular body against the inner shoulder or radial portion of the connector, thereby locking this flange in place by clamping / sandwiching it. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0044] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the description given below, with reference to the accompanying drawings, which represent, by way of non-limiting examples, embodiments and implementations of the object of the invention. In these drawings: Fig. 1 shows, by way of an exploded perspective view, an example of an assembly which allows the wringing element, carried by a part which includes a sealing element, to be fixedly positioned above the free edge of the rigid container and inside a connector which is fixed around the upper end of the container. Fig. 2 illustrates, with axial section, an example of assembly of a wringer arrangement as in Fig. 1, so as to superimpose a lower compartment for fixing on the container and an upper compartment into which the tubular body with the wringing element is inserted. Figure 3 illustrates, by means of a longitudinal sectional view, another embodiment for mounting a tubular body internally equipped with the wringing element on a connector with an internal skirt, allowing the wringer arrangement to achieve, by means of this skirt, a sealing contact between the connector and the container in a more central area than the upper edge of the container. Fig. 4 is an exploded view of a conditioning device, without its applicator, with an example (non-limiting) of a container and the wringer arrangement of Fig. 3. [Fig.5A] is a perspective view from below of a plastic part forming the connector used in the arrangement of [Fig.2]. Fig. 5B shows, by another perspective view, the connector of Fig. 5A whose upper sleeve has a dual function of retaining the tubular body integrating the wringing element and of fixing a gripping handle of the applicator which covers the top of the connector. Fig. 6 is a perspective view illustrating the top of a container, which has a small axial opening forming in a neck; this container is identical to that shown in Figures 3 and 4. Fig. 7A is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connector in Figures 1 and 2, illustrating features of the internal faces of this connector. Fig. 7B is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connector already shown in Figures 3 and 4, illustrating the particularities of the internal faces of this connector and the integration of the internal skirt. Fig. 7C illustrates a variant of the connector which differs from the connector in Fig. 7B, notably by the flexibility of sub-parts of the outer skirt delimiting the lower compartment. Figure 8A illustrates the assembled configuration of the connector, by a cross-sectional view at the level of an upper neck of the container, in a case using a metal collar which radially tightens the engagement of the reliefs distributed on the outer skirt of the connector to cooperate with the peripheral fixing region provided on the neck. [Fig.8B] is a view similar to that of [Fig.8A] but in a case with an annular section fret which is made of plastic material. Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a trim element, which may consist of a metal ring made in one piece, to cover the lower annular portion of the mounting connector, as for example in the case of Figures 8A-8B. Fig. 10 is a longitudinal sectional view of an example of an applicator usable with a wringer arrangement, with the possibility of fixing on the outer face of the connector sleeve delimiting the upper compartment. DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0045] In the different figures, the same numerical references designate analogous elements of the different embodiment examples represented and described.

[0046] With reference to Figures 1-2, 3-4, the wringer arrangement 1 may comprise or consist of two parts fitted one inside the other to form an interface of a conditioning device 100, interposed between the product container 2, on the one hand, and the applicator 40, an example of which is shown in [Fig. 10], on the other hand. The wringer arrangement 1 includes a tubular body 3, 103 including a wringing element 8 with an internal circumferential section or lower edge 31 for wiping. The tubular body 3, 103 has an upper end E3 and defines a central passage 03 accessible from above, the upper axial opening of which is shown in [Fig. 1].

[0047] The arrangement 1 also includes a connector 5, 105, 205, which defines a mounting support for the tubular body 3, 103. The connector 5, 105, 205 can be made in one piece. It is mounted on the top of the container 2 and has a structure of revolution about a central axis A, having a central hollow through which the product can exit the container 2, via a narrowed passage provided in a wringing element 8 which belongs to the tubular body 3, 103. The connector 5, 105, 205 has a sleeve 5a forming a first annular portion which extends longitudinally around a central axis A to the upper end E2 of the connector 5, 105, 205.

[0048] The sleeve 5a can constitute a connecting end, typically male, for attaching the applicator 40, as described later. The sleeve 5a can then be located in an extension of the upper annular end 2c, formed as a neck 25, in the mounted state of the wringer arrangement 1 on the container 2 (see for example [Fig. 3]). As seen in figures 7A to 7C, the sleeve 5a delimits a central passage C5 serving as the first receiving compartment Cri for the axial insertion of the tubular body 3; 103. The connector 5, 10, 205 is further arranged to envelop the upper annular end 2c by an external skirt.

[0049] In practice, the connector 5, 105, 205 has a tiered structure with: - a first annular wall, in the sleeve 5a, which delimits a first receiving compartment Cri for the insertion of the tubular body 3, 103, typically with the complete insertion of an insertion part of this tubular body 3, 103; and - a second annular portion 50, corresponding to the external skirt of the connector 5, 105, 205, which delimits a second receiving compartment Cr2), being located vertically above the first receiving compartment (Cri). The second annular portion 50 can surround and axially retain the upper annular end 2c of the container 2 in a locked state, axially, of the connector 5; 105; 205 relative to the container 2. The first annular portion allows the wringing element 8 to be offset, which inserts with the insertion part of the tubular body 3, 103 into the sleeve 5a.

[0050] In a complete conditioning device, which includes the container 2, the wringer arrangement 1 and an applicator 40 as shown in [Fig. 10] with its gripping handle 41 which forms a hood, it is understood that the applicator 40 can be withdrawn and repositioned with a systematic passage of the rod 40a and the application member 40b along the wringing member 8, in a wiping zone which is located higher than the free edge B2 of the container 2. In [Fig. 3], an example of the final position FP of the tubular body 103 can be seen, here in dotted lines. Examples of integrating the wringing element into the tubular body

[0051] By longitudinally defining the central passage 03, the tubular body 3, 103 locally forms a constriction that defines a minimum cross-section of this central passage 03. It is through this central passage 03 that the rod 40a of the applicator 40 can be moved to reach the inside of the container. Under an upper section of the tubular body 3, 103, a circumferential section or lower edge 31 for wiping is provided internally within this body 3, 103. The wiping function can be performed at the bottom of a conical portion that constitutes or forms part of the wringing element 8. Although a wringing element 8 of conical / truncated conical shape has been illustrated in [Fig. 2] or [Fig. 3], any other suitable shape for the wringing element 8 can be incorporated into the tubular body 3, 103.For example, the tubular body may alternatively have a double-walled structure with an outer wall surrounding a wringing element whose wall has substantially a diabolo shape including two flared / conical annular parts which join to form the circumferential section or wiping edge 31.

[0052] More generally, the wringing element 8 includes an inner face, at which the passage cross-section gradually decreases to a minimum. This wringing element 8 can optionally form a lower (axially lower) section in the tubular body 3, 103, to delimit the bottom of the central passage 03. In some options, several edges or ridges are formed internally to have a scraping effect in the downward (re-entrant) direction of the applicator 40. With reference to [Fig. 2], for example, the wringing element has a crater-shaped (conical) portion, which has a corrugation 3w or a succession of reliefs, on its inner side for the wiping effect. The crater-shaped portion has an annular base corresponding to the lower edge 31.In this case the wiping effect is achieved when the applicator 40 returns to the container 2, by a plurality of annular edges or ridges which are staggered on the conical / flared upwards inner surface of the wringing element 8, with the lower edge 31 being the only one to have the internal diameter D8 corresponding to the minimum of the central passage section 03. This arrangement with reliefs or undulations 3w is applicable in any type of body. tubular 3, 103 suitable to fit into the associated connector 5, 105, 205, and not limited to the case of [Fig.2].

[0053] In embodiments, as clearly shown in Figures 1 to 3, the tubular body 3, 103 comprises an upper section that includes the end E3 and may have a first progressive reduction in cross-section, in the direction of reducing a passage diameter. A flange 30' ([Fig. 3]) may be provided in this upper section, as in the case of Figures 3 and 4, which allows for axial support from above against an upper end E2 of the connector 105, 205 that receives the tubular body 103 in a sleeve 5a (including the upper end E2). Opposite the flange 30' in the tubular body 103, the lower edge 31 may define a free edge of the constituent part of this tubular body.

[0054] Alternatively, the upper end E3 can be provided without a flange, as in the cases of Figures 1 and 2, and the tubular body 3 can be mounted by insertion from below, through the lower opening of the connector 5, upwards inside the sleeve 5a. The arrow Fm in [Fig. 2] illustrates this upward insertion direction. The end E3 can be flush with the end E2, as in the example shown in [Fig. 2]. A flange 30 or equivalent retaining end can then be provided opposite the end E3; this flange 30 can be part of an outer skirt that surrounds the wringing element 8.

[0055] In all cases, the tubular body 3, 103 can reduce the passage cross-section in the upper section first and then a second time (to reduce it further) by the wringing element itself, typically with the wiping effect by the lower edge 31 or similar wiping zone of this element. Grooves R3 or external reliefs can be provided on the tubular body 3, for example, to fit snugly against the inner face Fc of the sleeve 5a. An annular groove 35 can also be provided on an outer circumference of the body 3, in order to limit undesirable effects of friction during the insertion of the body 3 into the sleeve 5a, along the inner face Fc, which is a first inner face of the connector.

[0056] In the cases illustrated, and as clearly visible in [Fig.2], the minimum of the passage section, in the tubular body 3, 103, can correspond to an internal diameter D8 which is less than the internal diameter D2 ([Fig.6]) of the upper annular end 2c of the container 2. The wringer arrangement 1 is compatible with reduced container openings, for example when the diameter D2 does not exceed 10 or 15mm, without requiring a weld-type connection on the container (not permitted for a container made of inorganic material, for example glass).

[0057] The wringer arrangement 1 can be compact and is well suited for removing an applicator 40 without product loss, while being mounted airtight on the container 2. The The diameter D8 obtained in the constricted passage zone, delimited by the lower edge 31 or similar reducing section of the wringing element 8, may be less than or equal to 10 mm. Alternatively, the following may be provided: D8 / D2 > 0.9 or D8 / D7 >0.9 where D7 is the inner diameter of skirt 7 for the case where a seal on the upper annular end 2c is permitted by an annular radial contact exerted by this skirt 7 of the connector 105; 205, as described in more detail below. Connection to the container with axial retention

[0058] The container 2 comprises a body 2 for storing the product, which is, for example, a liquid, viscous, or pasty cosmetic product. The body can be a glass bottle or other rigid inorganic material. In some options, the container may also include plastic. The container 2 has a tubular wall 20 extending longitudinally around a central axis X. In the figures, the respective axes X and A of the container 2 and of the sleeve 5a of the connector 5, 105, 205 are positioned vertically. They can be considered coincident when the wringer arrangement 1 is in place and locked onto the container 2. In the figures, the up and down directions are defined along the directions of the longitudinal axes A and X, such that a direction along the width of the body 2 or of the connector 5, 105, 205 is a radial direction and a direction along the height is a longitudinal direction.

[0059] With reference to Figures 1 to 3, it can be seen that no part of the container 2 penetrates the sleeve 5a; on the contrary, the annular end 2c extends under a radial portion of the connector 5, 105, 205, which defines an internal annular shoulder S5. In other words, the receiving function of the upper annular end 2c can be exclusively / selectively performed by the inner face F50, which delimits the second receiving compartment Cr2, a lower compartment in the connector 5, 105, 205. Furthermore, the tubular body 3, 103 is adjacent to the free edge B2, with or without contact on the axial surface s5 of this free edge B2, without requiring insertion of this body into the upper annular end 2c.

[0060] The second annular portion 50 has means for gripping / gripping the container 2, which are formed on the inner face, called the second inner face F50, by being distributed at two levels (with a difference in height / axial position) so as to delimit a groove area G5 ([Fig.5A]) where a part with a fixing rim(s) 12a, 22 can be anchored, which is for example provided adjacent to the upper opening 24. More generally, the upper annular end 2c can be arranged to butt as close as possible to the inner annular shoulder S5, either by direct contact, or by coming into contact with the tubular body 3. The fixing rim 22, typically adjacent to the upper face of the container 2, may have recesses or notches R25 that facilitate the passage of retaining lugs or tabs 37, 137, 37' during the fitting process, leading to the connection in the second receiving compartment Cr2. This option can facilitate installation when the second annular portion 50 has limited flexibility, for example, without a slot, to improve the visual appearance and / or avoid the use of a trim ring 9, 109 around the second annular portion 50.

[0061] As seen in Figures 1, 3-4 and 6, the RF mounting region may include anti-rotation means 23, which are placed in the second receiver compartment Cr2 to block the rotation of the connector 5, 105, 205 which is thus held in a mounting position by cooperating with anti-rotation reliefs 36, 136 36' provided on the second inner face F50. The RF fixing region can be formed on a collar 25 which extends from an external annular shoulder 26, on which the lower end El, typically annular (for example circular in shape), of the connector 5, 105, 205 can rest. This external annular shoulder 26 can optionally be located above the shoulder 2e which can be selectively covered (hidden) by the annular bottom 41b of the hood of the applicator 40, which is positioned lower than the lower end El in this case. Connection to the container with a sealing contact

[0062] The axial retention achieved using the connector 5, 105, 205 can ensure that a sealing element or means is properly compressed against the container 2, which is typically a non-plastic container (without plastic components, made of glass for example) or has an upper attachment end without plastic components. Optionally, radial clamping can reinforce the coupling between the second annular portion 50 and the RF attachment region of the container 2. The annular sealing contact(s) on the upper annular end 2c can result from simple axial support and / or radial compression in an annular area, for example by holding a contact lip or skirt inserted through the axial opening 24.

[0063] In a first embodiment of a watertight contact on the container 2, and as illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, one or more sealing elements RJ1, RJ2 are included in the tubular body 3 without complicating the delimitation structure of the central passage 03, but by integrating a skirt 33, which extends annularially around the central axis A with a radial spacing d ([Fig. 2]) relative to the wringing element 8. In this case, to ensure the compression of the raised seal RJ1, RJ2 against the surface s5 of the edge B2, a lower flange 30 can be provided, which will abut, with its upward-facing surface S3, against the shoulder. annular interior S5 form in a radial portion 55 of transition provided in the connector 5. The arrangement and precise geometry of at least one relief, lip or sealing bead, which is projecting downwards, can be adjusted according to the structure proposed at the top of the container 2. A square or oval external section can be compatible with a non-circular sealing element for example. In the assembled state on the container 2, with the reliefs 37 engaged on the RF fixing region (which have for example the same engagement position as the reliefs or lugs 137 on the assembly shown in [Fig.3]), the seal is obtained by putting the body (tubular body 3) with wringing function under stress, at the level of its collar 30, on the free edge / top of the container 2.

[0064] With the axial retention provided by the second annular / tubular portion, the edge B2 will press against the underside of this collar 30 where the sealing element(s) are located. Optionally, centering ridges may be provided on the face F50 (possibly ridges joining a portion of the outer margin of the inner annular shoulder D5), to center the collar 30 during or at the end of insertion.

[0065] In the non-limiting case of [Fig. 2], two annular sealing ridges RJ1, RJ2 are formed, for example, on the lower surface S3 of the flange 30, opposite the surface B3. These annular ridges RJ1, RJ2 form two circular contact areas of the sealing element constituted by the flange 30, with a constant spacing between the ridges. The seal can optionally be achieved with a radial spacing, for example greater than or equal to 1 mm, relative to the outer edge of the axial surface s5 of the edge B2. Of course, a variant with a single axial annular contact or variants using a contact that covers part of the axial opening 24 can be provided.

[0066] With reference to [Fig.7A], the connector 5 is adapted for the insertion of the tubular body 3 into the central passage C5 by further forming, lower than the sleeve 5a, means for gripping / gripping the neck 25 or upper annular end 2c of the container 2, taking into account the arrangement of the collar 30 which rests on the bottom of the second receiving compartment Cr2 (see [Fig.2]). The second annular portion 50 is connected to the sleeve 5a forming the first annular portion, such that the second receptor compartment Cr2 is wider than the first receptor compartment Cri by being underlying the first receptor compartment Cri. At its lower end, the first receptor compartment Cri thus has an axial lower opening O' which can be delimited by an inner border 44 of the inner annular shoulder S2.

[0067] The means for gripping / gripping the container 2, distributed at two levels in the face F50, allow anchoring of the upper fixing part 22, for example between The annular inner shoulder S5 and the lugs 37 include a gripping rim designed to engage under the flange segments 12a of the container, which belong to the flanged section(s). An annular border or section 12b delimiting the bottom of the groove g2 may also be optionally provided, corresponding, for example, to a circumferential region with the same external diameter as that including the flange segments 12a. A different geometry for the upper end 2c, for example as in [Fig. 4], may also be suitable to allow locking the axial engagement with annular sealing contact between the container and the tubular body 3.

[0068] In the mounting form shown in [Fig.2], it is understood that the annular collar 30 performs the sealing function on the container 2 by being integrated into the plastic material part that constitutes the tubular body 3, so that the annular sealing relief(s) RJ1, RJ2 are in the end of the body opposite the end E3. The skirt 33 can therefore be in contact with three distinct areas: - the top of the container 2 (from above); - the inner annular shoulder S5 (from below); and - a lower portion of the first internal face Fc of the sleeve 5a (by radial contact, typically made in an area surrounding the wringing element 8).

[0069] With this skirt 33, which surrounds the wringing element 8 and can be arranged coaxially around the wringing element which narrows the passage 03 the most, the tubular body can also well protect the wringing element 8 during manipulations which can be carried out by automata during the assembly of a packaging device 100. The arrangement of the tubular body 3, entirely outside the container 2 (above the neck 25), minimizes the assembly failure rate, in particular when the opening 24 is very narrow.

[0070] Regardless of whether or not the skirt 33 is present, the tubular body 3, 103 can: - be inserted through an axial opening in the connector to fill the first receiving compartment Cri; and - have a collar or similar end that butts against an annular edge of connector 5, 105, 205.

[0071] The collar 30 shown in [Fig. 2] can be adjacent to the external ribs R3 while fitting into the bottom of the second receiving compartment Cr2, being the only part interposed between the shoulder S5 and the container 2. The collar 30 can then bear axially, forming an annular sealing contact against the axial surface s5 of the free edge B2 (annular, extending around the axial upper opening 24) when the container is connected to the connector 5 and held anchored to axially (upwardly) repel the sealing ridge(s) of the collar 30. The annular free edge B2 has, for example, a radial extension e4 greater than or equal to the radial extension of the collar 30. The radial extension e4 is for example greater than or equal to 2 or 2.5 mm, possibly greater than 3 mm. This radial extension e4 is preferably less than or equal to 6 or 7 mm.

[0072] In options with such a collar or end with axial stop (surface B3), the skirt surrounding the wringing element 8 may have external reliefs R3 for a friction effect and / or an anti-rotation effect with respect to the first internal face Fc of the connector 5. This can facilitate the handling of the wringer arrangement 1 before its coupling with the container 2, by avoiding - before fixing on the container for example - an accidental withdrawal of the tubular body 3 from the first receiving compartment Cri, even in the absence of specific internal retention relief(s) on the first internal face Fc.

[0073] In embodiments different from the first embodiment, the tubular body 103 has a structure allowing it to be inserted through the upper end E2 of the connector 105, 205. With reference now to Figures 3-4 and 5A-5B, the wringer arrangement 1 may include a connector 105, 205 provided with a lip or skirt 7, with an annular extension / section around the central axis A of the sleeve, which may extend the sleeve 5a downwards, extending through the second receiving compartment Cr2 (lower compartment). A lip or skirt 7 is then formed which is sufficiently deformable to be able to press from the inside against the inner face of the upper annular end 2c, by which means a seal container 2 -connector 105, 205 (corresponding to a radial annular contact SC', as clearly visible on [Fig.3]) is obtained as soon as the end 2c is kept locked in the second receiving compartment Cr2.The outer face F7 of the skirt 7, intended for contact with the inside of the container 2, can be lengthened to improve the sealing effect. The length of the skirt 7 can optionally be greater than or equal to a radius (half the diameter D2) of the opening 24.

[0074] As the annular seal and axial retention are obtained without contribution from the tubular body 103, it is permissible to make the two connections, permitted by the connector 105, 205, in any order. The tubular body 103 can have a wide range of geometries, optionally with the wringing element 8 which forms the lower end of this body by its lower edge 31' (here in the form of a free edge) for optimal compactness. It may be preferable for the insertion of the tubular body 103, through the sleeve 5a, to occur until an upper flange 30' comes into axial contact with an annular edge B5 of the upper end E2 of the connector 105, 205. This provides an insertion / recess limit, while an annular groove g5 or other internal relief provided on the first inner face Fc can have an anti-retraction function by retaining the insertion portion of the tubular body 103. For this purpose, a fastening element b3 is formed on an outer periphery of the tubular body 103, preferably annular, which constitutes a complementary gripping part of the annular groove g5 or equivalent relief.

[0075] Here too, the wringer arrangement 1 can consist of only two parts, the sealing element being the skirt 7 which forms part of this two-part assembly. The lower edge 31' can be axially offset from the annular inner skirt 7 which provides the seal. Non-limiting examples of the connector's outer skirt

[0076] The outer skirt, forming portion 50, may combine axial retaining ridges or lugs 37, 137, 37', preferably in unstiffened sections of the second annular portion 50, and one or more rotational indexing ridges 36, 136, 36' which may contribute to locally stiffening the second annular portion 50. The second annular portion 50 may optionally include one or more longitudinal ribs 36, 136, 36' which project radially inwards, to prevent the relative rotation of the connector 5, 205 around the neck 25 by engaging in a longitudinal notch or groove 23 formed on the container 2, typically in the neck 25 as in the case visible in [Fig. 6].

[0077] With reference to Figures 1 to 4, the upper annular end 2c and the second annular portion 50 of the connector 5, 105, 205 can be fixed to each other under the location of the tubular body 3, 103. The upper annular end 2c of the body 2 may have a groove g2 ([Fig. 1]) delimited superiorly by an annular edge or flange segments 12a which can serve as a retaining edge for anchoring lugs / lugs 37, 137, 37' of the connector 5, 105, 205. As can be seen for example in Figures 3 and 4, this retaining edge 22, here provided at the top of the neck 25, axially retains a lug, lug or radial portion 37, 137, 37' of the second inner face F50, in the locked state (see [Fig. 3]). While allowing the tubular body 3 to be retained and centered, 103 by maintaining the wringing element 8 in a fixed position / away from the edge D2, with an axial spacing h ([Fig.4]) between the container 2 and the wringing element 8, the connector 5, 105, 205 can contribute to covering the periphery of the upper annular end 2c with a robust mechanical retention. The outer skirt / second annular portion 50, for example, can form a covering section, exposed when the applicator 40 is removed from the device 100. Alternatively, the outer skirt or second annular portion 50 can be covered externally by the outer side wall of a collar 9, 109 or similar tubular covering piece.

[0078] As can be seen in [Fig. 4], the axial spacing h is non-zero in the final position FP of the tubular body. This axial spacing may not exceed a threshold, which is, for example, a spacing on the order of 4 or 6 mm at most. A final position FP of the tubular body 103, illustrated in dashed lines in the non-limiting case of [Fig. 4], is thus a centered and axially spaced position relative to the neck 25 or similar access end of container 2.

[0079] To ensure ease of assembly, certain ridges / lugs 137 on the inner face F50 may be beveled at their lower end (see surface Sb2). With reference to [Fig. 5A], the lower end El may be beveled with a surface Sbl resulting from a progressive thinning, from the inside, of the second annular portion 50 (for example, by having a surface Sbl beveled to the free edge of this lower end El). The lip or skirt 7 may also have a thinned termination with a bevel on its terminal surface Sb, which facilitates its insertion into the axial opening 24 of the container 2. We understand that the beveling of the outer skirt, at the bottom of portion 50, is internal, which is the opposite for the lip or skirt 7, with an external beveling, as clearly visible on [Fig.3] for example. Options with a clamping element and / or peripheral cover

[0080] With reference to [Fig.9], the wringer arrangement 1 may carry a ring-shaped fret or similar part to enclose the second annular portion 50. As seen in Figures 8A and 8B, the fret 9, 109 may be a plastic part or a tubular metal part. Ribs N9 can be formed internally on the inside of the ring 9 to make contact with the second annular portion / skirt 50 and prevent rotation around the connector 5, 105, 205. The ring 9 can externally fit / cover any of the connectors 5, 105, 205 illustrated respectively in [Fig. 7A], 7B, 7C. In options with a plastic ring 109, the ribs N9 can be omitted. An annular upper rim 9b can be provided at one upper end of the ring 9 – as shown, for example, in [Fig. 9] – to provide axial support from above for a portion with the shoulder / transition zone 55 ([Fig. 5B]) of the connector 5, 105, 205.

[0081] In the case where a collar 9, 109 is used, the external side wall extending above the body of the container 2 can be heterogeneous, with for example another rigid material constituting the collar 9, 109, different from the material of the container 2 (for example in the form of a metal, plastic or other material other than glass / inorganic material), and different from the material of the sleeve 5a.

[0082] The retaining part 9, 109 can optionally be attached or overmolded onto the connector 5, 105, 205, around the outer skirt. Optionally, the retaining part 9, 109 has an anti-rotation relief or an internal collar or similar section reducing the upper opening of the part, adapted to engage with at least one relief included in the part constituting the connector 5, 105, 205. It is understood that the connector 205, when surrounded by a fret-forming part 9 or 109, can have at least one anti-rotation relief adapted to butt against a complementary stopper / grip edge, in order to prevent relative rotation around the central axis A between the fret-forming part 9, 109 and the connector 205. The fret 9, 109 can also constrain flexible parts of the second annular portion 50, thus locking the connection on the peripheral RF region.

[0083] More generally, a means of blocking relative rotation can be formed between the connector 5, 105, 205 and the auxiliary part or similar covering element which is positioned intermediately, to cover an axial section of the conditioning device 100 which is located between the sleeve 5a and the body of the container 2. Non-limiting examples of container and applicator structure

[0084] The container 2 may consist of a single piece of glass or other inorganic material. The glass used to form the container 2 is preferably obtained from silica. It may typically be transparent or translucent, at least in a lower part near the bottom of the body. The container may have a body 20 and a neck 25. The wringer arrangement 1 is mounted on this container 2 to form the packaging device, the product access to which, typically a single access point from the top, corresponds to the upper opening O ([Fig. 1]) or O3 ([Fig. 3]) of the wringer arrangement 1, through which the central axis A passes.

[0085] This upper opening of the wringer arrangement can be wider than the axial opening of the container 24, taking into account the reduction(s) in cross-section in the tubular body 3, 103. The outer diameter of the container 2, at its upper annular end 2c, is, for example, less than 20 mm. In this case, it is understood that the inner face F50 can have a corresponding inner diameter, also less than or equal to 20 mm, while the diameter D2 is even smaller.

[0086] The upper annular end 2c may have an external circumferential face provided with at least one anchoring relief or profile to define the peripheral fixing region RF, as clearly visible in [Fig. 1] or 6, for example. A generally circular circumference may be preferred for the end 2c. With reference to figures 4 and 10, a central axis Y, which may be an axis of symmetry, of the applicator 40 can be confused with the central axis X of the tubular wall 20. The container 2 does not enter directly into the hollow fixing zone ZF, annular, formed around the rod 40a.

[0087] The stem portion of the applicator 40 may be a single piece that defines the hollow fixing area ZF, by being fitted or fixed inside an external casing, forming all or part of the outer surface of the applicator cover 40. It is understood that the cover or gripping handle 41 of the applicator 40 may include this casing, which forms the outer wall and the bottom. axial 41a (upper end in the mounted state of the applicator 40 in the device) of the gripping handle 41. Opposite the gripping handle 41 which forms a hood, the brush or application element 40b corresponds to an enlarged lower end carried by the rod 40. The application element 40b can have any suitable shape, where appropriate including a helical part or axial spacing zones between application sections of this application element 40b.

[0088] The lower wiping edge 31,31' can delimit an opening O which is smaller than the axial opening 24 formed by the top of the container 2. The tubular side wall 20 of the container body 2 is possibly cylindrical or tapered with a circular cross-section, but may have a square or different cross-section in alternative embodiments, at least for the outer circumference of this container. More generally, the tubular wall 20 may have any geometry, in particular any type of geometry with a circumference suitable for gripping and which exceeds the maximum circumference of the tubular body 3, 103, and which possibly exceeds the maximum circumference of the wringer arrangement 1, so as to facilitate the integration of an applicator 40 which includes a gripping cover / handle 41 (as seen in [Fig. 10]).

[0089] With reference to Figures 7A, 7B and 7C, the part forming the connector 5, 105, 205 can be produced by injection molding in plastic material. It is permissible, without risk of cracking, to form the connector 5 with thermoplastic materials. This allows for multiple internal reliefs 36, 36', 36a, 36b, 37 on the face F50 which axially retains the container, for example by having thicker / more prominent reliefs 36, 36' (radially inwards) for a stiffening effect and / or rotational indexing, in cooperation with anti-rotation means 23 provided on the RF fixing region. Figures 1-2 and 8A-8B illustrate the possibility of placing, in the second receiver compartment Cr2, these anti-rotation means 23 to block the connector 5, 105, 205 in a mounting position without the possibility of rotation.

[0090] More broadly, as can be seen for example in Figures 1-2, 5A, 6, 7A to 7C and 8A-8b, the second inner face F50 has at least one indexing element rotating relative to the container 2, which is typically hidden, so that the part containing the product, here forming the container 2 in one piece, is blocked from rotation in an inserted state of the upper annular end 2c in the second receiving compartment 2c. On the outer face opposite the second inner face F50, the second portion may optionally be smooth (without protrusions or hollows).

[0091] As can be clearly seen in [Fig. 7C] in particular, the relative rigidity or semi-rigidity of the plastic material constituting the connector 205 does not preclude the formation of locally more flexible parts, for example by thinning the wall in order to reduce The material thickness and / or by providing a hinge effect of parts in the form of tabs L1, L2 or elastically deformable lugs, which are delimited between two slots f or similar recesses. A ring 9, 109 can lock the connector by tightening the second annular portion 50 having such tabs L1, L2.

[0092] In the illustrated cases, the container 2 is narrowed by a neck 25 or narrowing / re-narrowing, possibly being locally enlarged (via a flange, collar, or flange segments 12a) in its coupling zone with the mounting face F50. However, a container 2 can also be provided with a substantially constant cross-section at its upper annular end 2c. In all cases, the opening 24 of the container 2 can typically define a diameter of at least 6 or 8 mm, preferably not exceeding 15 or 20 mm when the capacity of the container 2 is less than or equal to 20 or 25 mL. Such a diameter of the filling opening 24 can correspond to at least 45% of a minimum internal diameter of the body of the container 2 (an internal diameter which can be located in the upper part of the tubular wall 20).The dimension of the opening diameter D2 can be larger, within the limit of the diameter of the body of container 2 (therefore corresponding, where applicable, to 100% of the cross-section of container 2).

[0093] With a wringer arrangement 1 as described above, the retention of the tubular body 3, 103, which enables the wiping function, is robust, and the assembly method remains simple, with a two-piece arrangement design permitted. The connector 5, 105, 205 provides two internal mounting faces Fc, F50, thus allowing the technical component forming the tubular body 3, 103 to be concealed. This component can then be a fairly simple, standard part while remaining compatible with a wide variety of designs for the connector 5, 105, 205 and for the upper annular end 2c of the container 2.

[0094] Although the drawings show a connector with two internal faces Fc, F50 connected by a single shoulder, a more stepped structure can also be provided in variants, for example by modifying the type of junction and / or by being able to decompose the second compartment into two juxtaposed sub-compartments. In the latter case, an additional annular internal face can be provided and interposed axially between the internal face Fc and the internal face F50. An additional seal, an annular lip, or similar part (optionally overmolded or welded) can possibly occupy or be located in one sub-compartment, while the upper annular end 2c occupies the other sub-compartment: the seal or lip can bear against this upper annular end 2c.

[0095] It should be obvious to persons versed in the art that the present invention permits embodiments in many other specific forms without departing from the field of application of the invention as claimed.

[0096] Thus, although the figures show a second annular wall 50 which only covers a neck 25 from a shoulder 2e of the container 2, other embodiments are possible, for example with an extension or prolongation of the connector further downwards to cover an upper portion of the body of the container 2. Also, although the sleeve 5a has been shown with external reliefs 5r, such as threads, allowing the applicator 40 to be screwed on (with stop reliefs or reliefs Rb to mark an end of travel), it should be understood that another type of fastening is permitted, such as for example with a bayonet type connection, a threading method which allows clipping, a fastening including a magnetic lock, the fastening including or not a rotational actuation to disconnect the gripping handle 41 from the applicator 40.

Claims

Demands

1. Wringer arrangement (1) for container (2) for product to be applied by means of an applicator (40), said arrangement (1) comprising: - a tubular body (3; 103) including a wringer element (8) with an internal circumferential section or lower edge (31; 31') allowing wiping; - a connector (5; 105; 205) having a lower end (E1) and an upper end (E2), the connector (5; 105; 205) having a sleeve (5a) forming a first annular portion which extends longitudinally around a central axis (A) to the upper end (E2), the sleeve (5a) delimiting a central passage (C5) serving as a first receiving compartment (Cri) for the axial insertion of the tubular body (3; 103); and - a second receiving compartment (Cr2) internally delimited by a second annular portion (50) of the connector (5; 105;205), being located directly above the first receiving compartment (Cri), said second annular portion (50) being able to surround an upper annular end (2c) of the container (2) in a locked state, axially, of the connector (5; 105; 205) relative to the container (2); characterized in that the arrangement (1) comprises an annular sealing element or means (30; 7), formed or housed internally in the second compartment (Cr2), which is: - adapted to make a leak-proof annular contact on the container (2), in said locked state; - included in one of the tubular body (3; 103) and the connector (5; 105; 205); and - placed under the central passage (C5) and under the circumferential section or lower edge (31; 31') of wiping.

2. A wringer arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the connector (5; 105; 205) has a first internal face (Fc) formed on the sleeve (5a) for frictional contact with said tubular body (3; 103) and / or axial retention of the tubular body (3; 103), wherein the connector (5; 105; 205) has a second internal, annular face (F50) formed at or near the lower end (E1), in the second annular portion (50) which constitutes a skirt of the connector (5; 105; 205), the second inner face (F50) being provided with one or more internal hooking reliefs (37, 137), preferably projecting radially inwards, to cooperate with a peripheral fixing region (RF) provided on a circumferential outer face of the container (2), at the upper annular end (2c), so that the second inner face (F50) achieves the locking to obtain the locked state and allows a fixed connection of the connector (5; 105; 205) to the container (2) in the locked state.

3. Wringer arrangement (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the wringer member (8) extends into the first receiving compartment (Cri) to form a constriction which locally defines a minimum of the passage cross-section for the passage of a rod (40a) of the applicator (40), said minimum of the passage cross-section being formed by said circumferential section or lower wiping edge (31; 31'), and wherein said minimum may correspond to an inside diameter (D8) which is less than an inside diameter (D2) of the upper annular end (2c) of the container (2).

4. Wringer arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second annular portion (50), provided opposite the upper end (E2), is connected to the sleeve (5a) in a transition zone (55) where an internal annular shoulder (S5) is formed, the second receiving compartment (Cr2) being underlying the first receiving compartment (Cri) having an axial lower outlet (O') at a lower end of the sleeve (5a).

5. A wringer arrangement (1) according to claim 4, wherein the lower axial outlet (O') is delimited by an inner edge (44) of the annular inner shoulder (S5), and wherein an annular collar (30) of the tubular body (3) is provided to: - bear axially, from below, against the annular inner shoulder (5), the second receiving compartment (Cr2) being wider than the first receiving compartment (Cri); and - carry one or more annular sealing reliefs (RJ1, RJ2), formed axially projecting on an underside face of the collar (30), opposite an upper face of the collar in axial contact with the connector (5).

6. Wringer arrangement (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the annular sealing element or means is made in or carried by a lower flange (30) of the tubular body (3; 103) which opposes an axial upward movement of the wringer member (8) which extends into the first receiving compartment (Cri), preferably by coming axially against an internal relief or an internal shoulder (S5) of the connector (5; 105; 205).

7. Wringer arrangement (1) according to claim 4, wherein the lower axial outlet (O') is delimited by an inner rim (45) formed on the top of an inner skirt (7) or axial, annular lip of the connector (105; 205), the inner skirt (7) or axial lip being adapted to form the sealing element by inserting through an upper axial opening (24) of the container (2).

8. Wringer arrangement (1) according to claim 1, 2, 3 or 4, wherein the annular sealing element or means comprises an annular inner skirt (7) of the connector (5; 105; 205) adapted to fit into the upper annular end (2c), projecting axially downwards into the second receiving compartment (Cr2), so that the wringer member (8) delimits an axial passage section which narrows as it approaches a shoulder area where the annular inner skirt (7) connects radially to a boundary face of one of said receiving compartments (Cri, Cr2).

9. Wringer arrangement (1) according to claim 8 when it depends on claim 2, wherein the lower edge (31; 31'), preferably which defines a free edge opposite the axial opening in the assembled state of the container, is axially offset from the annular inner skirt (7), the tubular body (103) being held axially by the first inner face (Fc), by at least one relief (g5) provided internally on the first inner face (Fc) and cooperating with a complementary fixing member (b3), preferably annular, provided on an outer periphery of the tubular body (103).

10. Wringer arrangement (1) according to claim 2 or any one of claims 3 to 9 when it depends on claim 2, wherein the second inner face (F50) is; - provided in the second annular portion (50) of the connector (205), which constitutes a skirt connected, preferably directly connected, to a radial portion of the connector (5); and - provided with at least one elastically deformable flexible portion (SP), delimited by slots (f) or recesses in the thickness of the second annular portion (50), which is adapted to engage by elastic return effect radially inwards in said peripheral fixing region (RF) and obtain the locked state.

11. Packaging device (100) for product to be applied by an applicator (40) dipping inside a container (2), the device comprising: - the wringer arrangement (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, the central axis (A) forming a longitudinal axis of the passage for a rod (40a) of the applicator (40); and - the container (2) which has an upper annular end (2c) provided with a fixing region (RF) which extends over a body of the container to retain the upper annular end (2) internally in the second receiving compartment (Cr2).

12. Device according to claim 11, wherein the upper annular end (2c) has a neck (25) which has the fixing region (RF) on its outer periphery, the container (2) being made of glass, and wherein the fixing region (RF) includes anti-rotation means (23), placed in the second receiving compartment (Cr2) to lock the connector (5; 105; 205) in a mounting position by cooperating with anti-rotation reliefs (36; 136; 36') provided on the second inner face (F50).

13. Device according to claim 12, wherein the second annular portion (50) has one or more longitudinal ribs (36; 136; 36') which project radially inwards, forming the anti-rotation reliefs and making it possible to prevent the relative rotation of the connector (5; 205) around the neck (25) by engaging in a longitudinal notch or groove (23) formed in the neck (25).

14. Device according to claim 11, 12 or 13, comprising said applicator (40) which has a gripping handle (41) and a rod (40a) carrying a brush or application element (40b) of the product contained in a body of the container (2), and in which the sleeve (5a) of the connector (5; 105; 205) is a male connection element adapted for the fixed mounting of a cap provided in the gripping handle (41), a fixing skirt (42) being provided around the rod (40a) to form the complementary female element of the sleeve (5a) by delimiting an annular hollow area (ZF) for the insertion of the sleeve (5a).

15. Device according to claim 14, wherein the inner face (Fc) of the sleeve (5a) which delimits the first compartment (Cri) is able to retain said tubular body (3; 103) in said insertion position, by presenting an anchoring relief, preferably in the form of an annular groove (g5).

16. Device according to any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the connector (5; 105; 205) is surrounded by a ring-forming piece (9; 109), laterally enveloping, preferably selectively, the second annular portion (50) of said connector (5; 105; 205), the ring-forming piece (9; 109) tightening the second annular portion (50).

17. Assembly method for obtaining the conditioning device (1) according to claim 11, by mounting the tubular body (3; 103) provided with the wringing member (8) in the first receiving compartment (Cri) of the connector (5; 105; 205) and by connecting the upper annular end (2c) of the container (2) through an axial opening of the lower end (El) of the connector (5; 105; 205), the method comprising the following steps: - retaining the tubular body (3; 103) against a gripping edge of an internal shoulder (S5) or a groove (g5) belonging to the connector (5; 105; 205), in an inserted position of the tubular body in the first receiving compartment (Cri); - by a sealing element (30; 7) which extends respectively under the grip edge, under the central passage (C5) of the sleeve (5a) defining the first receiving compartment (Cri) and under said circumferential section or lower wiping edge (31;31'), form a sealed annular contact against the upper annular end (2c) of the container (2), by inserting, along an axial direction parallel to and with a centering along the central axis of the; sleeve (5a), the upper annular end (2c) in the second receiving compartment (Cr2) of the sleeve underlying the first compartment (Cri), until the connection of the upper annular end (2c) is locked, which is placed entirely under the tubular body (3; 103).

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