Closure cap for a cosmetic product packaging container and associated packaging and dispensing device
The closure capsule addresses the challenges of easy distribution and refilling with an airtight seal by using a base, intermediate platform, and top cover design with a sealing skirt, ensuring easy handling and reducing environmental impact.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- FR · FR
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- LOREAL SA
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-13
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-19
AI Technical Summary
Existing cosmetic product containers face challenges in achieving easy product distribution and refilling while ensuring an airtight seal, with previous solutions often leading to leakage or product degradation due to atmospheric humidity and complex handling.
A closure capsule with a base, intermediate platform, and top cover design, featuring a sealing skirt that forms a tight contact with the container neck, along with opposing hinges and gripping means for easy handling and refilling, ensuring an airtight seal and facilitating product distribution and refilling.
The capsule provides easy product distribution and refilling, reduces environmental impact by allowing container reuse, and maintains product integrity through an airtight seal, minimizing leakage and contamination risks.
Smart Images
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Abstract
Description
Title of the invention: Closure cap for a cosmetic product packaging container and associated packaging and dispensing device
[0001] The present invention relates to a capsule intended to be mounted on a neck of a cosmetic product packaging container.
[0002] The cosmetic product is, for example, a hair product, a hygiene product, a face and / or body care product, a makeup product, or even 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] In order to seal a container containing a cosmetic product, it is known to mount a cap on the neck of the container. Such a cap typically comprises a base mounted on the neck of the container and a cap movable relative to the base between an open position, allowing the cosmetic product to be dispensed through a dispensing opening provided on the base, and a closed position sealing the dispensing opening.
[0005] 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.
[0006] It is therefore essential to design more durable products, thereby reducing the amount of materials used.
[0007] In particular, allowing the container to be reused once the cosmetic product has been consumed is a solution that significantly reduces the amount of materials used.
[0008] However, the dispensing orifice is generally not large enough to allow the container to be refilled once the product has been consumed.
[0009] In order to avoid having to remove the capsule to refill the container, which can be complex and is likely to damage the capsule preventing its reuse, capsules allowing the refilling of the container are known.
[0010] Document WO 2018 / 071040 describes, for example, a conditioning device comprising a reservoir and a capsule including several caps mounted movably relative to each other. The capsule includes, in particular, an upper cap designed to seal a product dispensing orifice and an intermediate cap. capable of being opened to reveal an opening larger than the dispensing orifice, so as to allow the container to be filled.
[0011] However, such a solution is not entirely satisfactory. Indeed, such a capsule does not guarantee a sufficiently airtight seal between the capsule and the container. There is therefore a risk of leakage of the cosmetic product or of its degradation, for example due to atmospheric humidity.
[0012] Moreover, handling the capsule is not always easy for the user, who risks inadvertently opening the intermediate cover and thus losing product.
[0013] Other embodiments of capsules comprising several hoods are described in WO2014 / 172419, WO2017 / 201274 and CN218520181.
[0014] An object of the invention is to provide a container closure capsule that is easy to use by allowing on the one hand easy distribution of the product and on the other hand easy refilling of said container with product, while guaranteeing an airtight closure of the container.
[0015] To this end, the invention relates to a closure capsule intended to be mounted on the neck of a cosmetic product packaging container, the capsule comprising:
[0016] - a base configured to be mounted on the neck of the container, the base comprising fastening means suitable for cooperating with neck fastening means, the base comprising a bottom wall in which is provided a through-filling opening suitable for allowing the passage of the cosmetic product;
[0017] - an intermediate platform comprising a sealing skirt projecting from a face of the intermediate tray and defining an internal space, the intermediate tray comprising a product distribution orifice opening into the internal space of the sealing skirt, the intermediate tray being movable relative to the base by means of a lower hinge between an open position, in which the intermediate tray is away from the filling opening, and a closed position, in which the sealing skirt is received through the filling opening;
[0018] - a top cover comprising a shutter cap configured to shutter the distribution orifice, the hood being movable relative to the intermediate plate by means of an upper hinge between an open position, in which the hood is away from the distribution orifice, and a closed position, in which the hood blocks the distribution orifice,
[0019] the capsule being maneuverable between a closed configuration, in which the intermediate tray and the hood are in the closed position, a dispensing configuration, in which the intermediate tray is in the closed position and the hood is in the open position, and a filling configuration, in which at least the intermediate tray is in the open position,
[0020] the sealing skirt being configured to bear against an internal surface of the neck of the container when the capsule is mounted on said neck and the intermediate tray is in the closed position, so as to form a tight contact with said internal surface.
[0021] The sealing skirt ensures an airtight closure of the container by pressing closely against the neck of the container. This limits the risk of product leakage or contamination by external elements, such as humidity in the air.
[0022] In addition, the capsule according to the invention thus allows the user to have a filling opening whose dimensions correspond substantially to those of the neck, facilitating the filling of the container, due to the presence of the sealing skirt on the intermediate tray, free from the filling opening of the base in the open position of the intermediate tray.
[0023] In addition, the development of the container's sealing is simplified, the sealing being directly ensured by the sealing skirt present on the intermediate platform and ensuring the seal with the container in the closed position of the intermediate platform relative to the base, by direct contact with the inner surface of the neck.
[0024] According to one variant, the capsule comprises the following feature:
[0025] - the lower hinge and the upper hinge are arranged on edges opposites of the intermediate plateau.
[0026] The two hinges are thus opposed to each other, so that the opening directions of the intermediate tray and the upper cover are reversed. This arrangement reduces the risk of the user inadvertently opening the intermediate tray or the upper cover. It also facilitates the manufacture of the capsule by molding, as the base, the intermediate tray, and the cover can be molded flat, that is, with the intermediate tray open relative to the base and with the cover open relative to the intermediate tray.
[0027] According to one variant, the capsule comprises the following feature:
[0028] - the capsule includes gripping means configured to maneuver the capsule between the filling configuration, the dispensing configuration and the closed configuration, the gripping means preferably comprising a first impression, allowing the passage of the hood from the closed position to the open position, and a second impression, allowing the passage of the intermediate tray from the closed position to the open position.
[0029] The gripping means, in particular in the form of impressions, also referred to as finger grips, facilitate the handling of the capsule by the user, who can easily open either of the intermediate tray and the upper cover.
[0030] According to one variant, the capsule comprises the following feature:
[0031] - the distribution orifice has an area between 2% and 25% of the area of the filling opening.
[0032] The filling opening, which is wider, allows for easy filling of the container, while the narrower dispensing orifice allows for better control of the quantity of product dispensed.
[0033] According to one variant, the capsule comprises the following feature:
[0034] - the base comprises two shoulders arranged on either side of the opening filling and defining between them a housing intended to receive the intermediate tray and the hood in closed configuration, preferably so that a top face of the hood is flush with a free surface of the shoulders.
[0035] The risks of damage to the intermediate tray and the upper cover are thus reduced, particularly in the event of impacts against the capsule, especially if the container fitted with the capsule is dropped. The risks of unintentional opening of the capsule are also reduced.
[0036] According to one variant, the capsule comprises the following feature:
[0037] - the base includes an internal skirt projecting from the bottom wall, the means fixing base on neck being mounted on said inner skirt, said inner skirt and the sealing skirt of the intermediate tray defining an annular receiving space intended to receive the neck of the container in a hermetic manner when the intermediate tray is in the closed position.
[0038] The internal skirt of the base ensures effective and secure retention of the capsule on the container, while allowing for the largest possible filling opening.
[0039] According to one variant, the capsule comprises the following feature:
[0040] - the inner skirt of the base has at least one notch intended to cooperate with a notch arranged on the neck of the container.
[0041] This contributes to centering and maintaining the position of the cap on the container. In addition, the presence of notches facilitates the deformation of the inner skirt during its assembly onto the neck and reduces the material used.
[0042] According to one variant, the capsule comprises the following feature:
[0043] - the sealing skirt has an annular bulge of material facing outwards said skirt.
[0044] The annular bulge ensures close contact with the neck, further improving the seal between the capsule and the container.
[0045] According to one variant, the capsule comprises the following feature:
[0046] - the base, the intermediate platform and the hood are made of material, preferably are made of plastic material.
[0047] The capsule can thus easily be made in one piece, for example by molding, avoiding the assembly of different elements. The capsule is therefore more economical and faster to manufacture.
[0048] The invention also relates to a device for packaging and dispensing a cosmetic product, the device comprising:
[0049] - a container suitable for receiving the cosmetic product, the container delimiting a inside the tank, the container including a neck, and
[0050] - a capsule of the aforementioned type, said capsule being mounted on the neck.
[0051] The invention will become clearer upon reading the following description, given solely by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the drawings in which:
[0052] [Fig-1] [Fig. 1] is a front and back view of a conditioning and dispensing device according to the invention, comprising a capsule according to the invention in a closed configuration;
[0053] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is an exploded view of the conditioning and conditioning device distribution of the [Fig.1], the capsule being in a filling configuration;
[0054] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a cross-sectional view along plane III of [Fig.2];
[0055] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a perspective view of the capsule in the configuration of distribution ;
[0056] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is a cross-sectional view along plane V of [Fig.4];
[0057] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is a view analogous to [Fig.5], the capsule being mounted on the neck of the container;
[0058] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is a perspective view of the capsule in the configuration of filling;
[0059] [Fig.8] [Fig.8] is a cross-sectional view along plane VII of [Fig.7];
[0060] [Fig.9] [Fig.9] is a view analogous to [Fig.8], the capsule being mounted on the neck of the container.
[0061] A cosmetic product packaging and distribution device 10 according to the invention is illustrated in [Fig.1].
[0062] Fig. 1 thus represents a view of a first face 8 (left view), hereafter referred to as the front face 8 of the device 10; and a view of a second face 9 (right view), hereafter referred to as the rear face 9 of the device 10.
[0063] The conditioning and distribution device 10 is intended for the conditioning and distribution of a fluid cosmetic product.
[0064] The cosmetic product is, for example, a hair product, a hygiene product, a facial and / or body care product, a makeup product, or a product sun protection. The cosmetic product is, for example, a liquid, a gel, or a cream.
[0065] The device 10 comprises a container 12, containing the cosmetic product, and a capsule 14 according to the invention mounted on the container 12 to seal it.
[0066] The container 12 is, for example, made of a plastic material. In an alternative, the container 12 is made of glass or metal.
[0067] Container 12 is for example a bottle or a jar.
[0068] The container 12 comprises a base 16 and a side wall 18 which extends around a central axis A-A'. Container 12 defines an interior of reservoir 20 configured to contain the cosmetic product.
[0069] For example, the container 12 has an elongated shape along the axis A-A'. The container 12 has, for example, a cross-section taken along a plane normal to the central axis A-A' of circular, elliptical or polygonal shape.
[0070] For example, as shown in [Fig.2], the container 12 has substantially the shape of an elliptical cylinder.
[0071] The container 12 also defines an access opening 21 to the inside of the tank 20, opposite the bottom 16 and advantageously located in a plane normal to the central axis A-A', through which the inside of the tank 20 opens.
[0072] In what follows, the terms "external" and "internal" generally refer to the distance from the axis A-A'. Furthermore, the term "radial" refers to the central axis A-A'. In addition, the terms "upper" and "lower" refer to the height of one element, in particular a surface, relative to another along the central axis A-A', when the bottom 16 of the container is placed on a flat surface.
[0073] The container 12 includes a neck 22 extending around the central axis A-A' and defining an access passage to the interior of the tank 20. The neck internally defines the access opening 21.
[0074] The collar 22 defines a shoulder 23 with the lateral wall 18.
[0075] The collar 22 has an external surface 24 and an internal surface 26 and extends from shoulder 23 up to a free edge 27.
[0076] Preferably, the internal surface 26 of the neck 22 is smooth. By "smooth" it is understood that it does not have any relief, such as hollows or bumps.
[0077] The neck 22 includes fastening means disposed on the external surface 24 and intended to cooperate with complementary fastening means of the capsule 14, as will be described later.
[0078] For example, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, the neck 22 of the container 12 includes an annular collar 28 adapted to cooperate with complementary locking means of the cap 14, so as to allow the cap 14 to be snapped onto the neck 12.
[0079] The capsule 14 is intended to selectively close the access opening 21 by engaging on the neck 22 of the container 12, in a position mounted on the container 12, as shown in [Fig.1].
[0080] The capsule 14 includes a base 30 configured to be mounted on the neck 22 of the container 12, an intermediate tray 32 and an upper cap 34.
[0081] The capsule 14 has a filling opening 36, provided on the base 30 and suitable for allowing the filling of the container 12, and a distribution orifice 38, provided on the intermediate tray 32 and through which the product contained in the interior of the reservoir 20 is suitable for being distributed.
[0082] A central axis X-X' is defined for the capsule 14. When the capsule 14 is mounted on the container 12, said axis X-X' is parallel, preferably coincident, with the axis A-A'.
[0083] The base 30, the intermediate platform 32 and the upper cover 34 are movable relative to each other.
[0084] The capsule 14 includes a first hinge 40, called the lower hinge 40, connecting the base 30 to the intermediate plate 32, and a second hinge 42, called the upper hinge 42, connecting the intermediate plate 32 to the hood 34.
[0085] The intermediate plate 32 is movable relative to the base 30 by means of the lower hinge 40 between an open position, illustrated for example in figures 7 to 9, in which the intermediate plate 32 is away from the filling opening 36, and a closed position, illustrated for example in figures 4 to 6, in which the intermediate plate 32 partially obstructs the filling opening 36.
[0086] The upper cover 34 is movable relative to the intermediate plate 32 by means of the upper hinge 42 between an open position, illustrated for example in figures 4 to 6, in which the cover is away from the distribution orifice 38, and a closed position, shown in [Fig.1], in which the upper cover 34 obstructs the distribution orifice 38.
[0087] The capsule 14 according to the invention is thus maneuverable between a closed configuration, as shown in [Fig. 1], a distribution configuration, as shown in Figures 4 to 6, and a filling configuration, as shown in Figures 2, 3 and 7 to 9.
[0088] In the closed configuration, the intermediate tray 32 and the cover 34 are in the closed position. In the dispensing configuration, the intermediate tray 32 is in the closed position and the cover 34 is in the open position. In the filling configuration, at least the intermediate tray 32 is in the open position, with the cover 34 being either in the open or closed position.
[0089] A further unfolded configuration, visible in figures 2 and 3, is defined, which corresponds to the filling configuration in which the hood 34 is in the open position.
[0090] The capsule 14 includes gripping means allowing the opening of the intermediate tray 32 and / or the upper cover 34.
[0091] The capsule 14 includes positioning means suitable for maintaining the intermediate tray 32 and the upper cover 34 in the closed position, as will be described later.
[0092] The elements of capsule 14 will now be described in detail.
[0093] The base 30 of the capsule 14 is configured to be mounted on the neck 22 of the container 12.
[0094] The base 30 includes a bottom wall 50 in which the filling opening 36 is provided. The bottom wall 50 has a lower face 52, intended to be opposite the container 12 when the capsule 14 is mounted on the neck 22, and an opposite upper face 54.
[0095] The base 30 includes an external skirt 56 projecting from the lower face 52 to a free end 57. Preferably, the external skirt 56 is adapted to bear against the side wall 18 of the container 12, the free end 57 being received for example at the level of a groove 58 provided at the level of the shoulder 23.
[0096] The outer skirt 56 has an outer face 46, suitable for being gripped by a user when the capsule 14 is mounted on the container 12, and an opposing inner face 47.
[0097] Preferably, as seen in [Fig.1], the outer face 46 is substantially flush with the side wall 18 of the container 12 when the base 30 is mounted on the container 12. This gives a smooth appearance to the device 10.
[0098] Preferably, the base 30 includes an internal skirt 60 projecting from the bottom wall 50 from the lower face 52 to a free end 61. The internal skirt 60 defines a bore intended to receive the neck 22 of the container 12.
[0099] The outer skirt 56 and the inner skirt 60 form two concentric cylinders around the central axis X-X'.
[0100] The base 30 includes fastening means 62 adapted to cooperate with the fastening means of the neck 22.
[0101] Preferably, as seen in [Fig.3], said means 62 are carried by the inner skirt 60.
[0102] For example, the base 30 is configured to be snapped onto the neck 22 of the container 12.
[0103] For example, the inner skirt 60 includes an annular bead 64 projecting from an inner face 65 of the inner skirt 60 towards the central axis X-X', said bead annular 64 being able to snap under the collar 28 of the neck 22 so as to fix the base 30 on the container 12.
[0104] Preferably, as seen in [Fig.3], the inner skirt 60 further includes reliefs 66 projecting from the inner face 65 of the inner skirt 60 towards the central axis X-X', said reliefs 66 being intended to bear against the outer surface 24 of the neck 22 and to limit the movement of the base 30 relative to the neck 22 by friction.
[0105] Preferably, the inner skirt 60 has at least one notch 68 intended to cooperate with a notch (not shown) arranged on the neck 22 of the container 12. For example, the inner skirt 60 includes two notches 68, advantageously diametrically opposed, intended to cooperate with two notches arranged on the neck 22 of the container 12. Said notches and notches serve as means for centering and holding in position the capsule 14 on the container 12.
[0106] Advantageously, the inner skirt 60 has discontinuities, for example in a crenellated shape as seen in [Fig.3], facilitating the elastic deformation of the inner skirt 60 when it is mounted on the collar 22.
[0107] The filling opening 36 is a through opening provided in the bottom wall 50 of the base 30. The filling opening 36 is configured to allow the container 12 to be filled by a user when the capsule 14 is mounted on the container 12.
[0108] Advantageously, the central axis X-X' passes through the filling opening 36 in its center.
[0109] Preferably, the filling opening 36 has a diameter substantially equal to the external diameter defined by the free edge 27 of the neck 22.
[0110] The filling opening 36 typically has a diameter between 15 mm and 50 mm, advantageously between 18 mm and 24 mm.
[0111] Preferably, when the base 30 is mounted on the collar 22, the free edge 27 of the collar 22 opens onto the upper face 54 of the bottom wall 50. Preferably, the free edge 27 is flush with the upper face 54 of the bottom wall 50.
[0112] Preferably, the base 30 comprises two shoulders 70 arranged on either side of the filling opening 36 and defining between them a housing 72 intended to receive the intermediate tray 32 and the hood 34 in closed configuration.
[0113] The filling opening 36 is provided in the bottom wall 50 at the level of said housing 72.
[0114] Preferably, each shoulder 70 has a height hl, measured along an axis parallel to the central axis X-X', between the upper face 54 at the level of the housing 72 and a free surface 74, between 2 mm and 6 mm.
[0115] Each shoulder 70 preferably has a peripheral wall comprising a portion of the outer face 46 of the outer skirt 56 and an inner edge 76 arranged in view of the filling opening 36 and partially delimiting the housing 72. For example, each shoulder 70 has a truncated ellipse shape.
[0116] The base 30 is connected to the intermediate platform 32 by means of the lower hinge 40.
[0117] The intermediate platform 32, for example, has a substantially rectangular shape. Advantageously, the intermediate platform 32 is suitable for being received in the housing 72 when the latter is present.
[0118] The intermediate tray 32 includes a plate 80 having a lower face 82, intended to be opposite the upper face 54 of the base 30 and the filling opening 36 when the intermediate tray 32 is in the closed position, as shown in Figures 4 to 6, and an opposite upper face 84.
[0119] Preferably, the intermediate tray 32 includes lateral edges 85 forming tabs projecting from the upper face 84.
[0120] The distribution orifice 38 is a through orifice provided in the plate 80 and opening on both sides onto the lower face 82 and onto the upper face 84.
[0121] Preferably, as seen in [Fig.3], the intermediate tray 32 includes a product distribution conduit 86, projecting from the lower face 82 of the intermediate tray 32.
[0122] The distribution conduit 86 extends between a connecting edge 88 to the lower face 82 of the intermediate tray 32 and a free edge 90.
[0123] The distribution conduit 86 defines a distribution passage 92 for the cosmetic product, said passage opening on the one hand onto the distribution orifice 38 at the level of the upper face 84 and on the other hand onto a distribution opening 94 at the level of the free edge 90 allowing the passage of the product.
[0124] Preferably, the distribution passage 92 has a first portion 95 opening at the free edge 90 and a second portion 96 opening at the distribution orifice 38, the two portions 95 and 96 being connected to each other. Advantageously, the second portion 96 has a frustoconical shape narrowing towards the first portion 95. In other words, the diameter of the distribution passage 92 at the distribution orifice 38 is larger than the diameter of the distribution passage 92 at the first portion 95.
[0125] For example, the diameter of the distribution passage 92 measured at the top face 84 is between 7 mm and 15 mm.
[0126] As will be described later, the second portion 96 facilitates the closing of the hood 34, and more particularly the insertion of the cap into the distribution conduit 86.
[0127] Advantageously, the distribution orifice 38 has an area, considered at the level of the upper face 84, of between 2% and 25% of the area of the filling opening 36.
[0128] Preferably, the opening 94 has a diameter between 1 mm and 6 mm.
[0129] Preferably, the distribution orifice 38 has a lateral offset with the center of the intermediate plate 32, so that the distribution orifice 38 is not centered on the intermediate plate 32.
[0130] The intermediate platform 32 includes a sealing skirt 100 projecting from the lower face 82 of the intermediate platform 32.
[0131] Preferably, the sealing skirt 100 is substantially centered on the lower face 82 of the intermediate plate 32.
[0132] The sealing skirt 100 has a substantially cylindrical shape extending around a central axis, corresponding to the central axis X-X' when the intermediate plate 32 is in the closed position, from the lower face 82 to a free edge 104. The skirt 100 has an external surface 106, radially away from the central axis and an internal surface 108, radially opposite to the external surface 106. The internal surface 108 of the skirt 100 delimits an internal space 109.
[0133] The sealing skirt 100 has a height h2, measured between the lower face 82 and the free edge 104, typically between 3 mm and 10 mm.
[0134] Preferably, the height h2 is between 25% and 90% of the height of the collar 22.
[0135] The distribution orifice 38 opens into the internal space 109 of the sealing skirt 100. As can be seen in [Fig. 3], the distribution conduit 86 extends into said internal space 109.
[0136] When the intermediate tray 32 is in the closed position, as shown in Figures 4 to 6, the sealing skirt 100 and the distribution conduit 86 are received through the filling opening 36. The sealing skirt 100 extends into the bore defined by the inner skirt 60 of the base 30, the outer surface 106 of the skirt 100 facing the inner face 65 of the inner skirt 60.
[0137] In the closed position of the intermediate tray 32, the inner skirt 60 of the base 30 and the sealing skirt 100 of the intermediate tray 32 delimit between them an annular receiving space 115, visible on the [Fig.5], intended to receive in a hermetic manner the neck 22 of the container 12 (as shown on the [Fig.6]).
[0138] By "waterproof" we mean here that which does not allow the passage of the cosmetic product and advantageously external elements likely to degrade the product, such as humidity from the air.
[0139] The sealing skirt 100 is configured to extend inside the neck 22 and to bear against the internal surface 26 of said neck 22, so as to form a watertight contact with said surface 26.
[0140] The sealing skirt 100 is capable of elastically deforming when inserted into the collar 22.
[0141] Preferably, as seen in [Fig.8], the sealing skirt 100 has an annular bulge 110 or bead 110 of material on the outside of the skirt 100. Said bulge 110 forms a bead on the external surface 106 of the skirt 100, so as to ensure close sealing contact with the neck 22.
[0142] The upper cover 34, for example, has a substantially rectangular shape. Advantageously, the cover 34 is suitable for being received in the housing 72 when the latter is present.
[0143] The upper cover 34 has a wall 120, for example cup-shaped, intended to cover the intermediate tray 32 when the cover 34 is in the closed position.
[0144] The wall 120 has a lower face 122, intended to be opposite the upper face 84 of the intermediate platform 32 when the cover 34 is in the closed position, as shown in figures 7 to 9, and an opposite upper face 124.
[0145] For example, as seen in [Fig.4], the wall 120 has lateral edges 126 projecting from the lower face 122.
[0146] The hood 34 includes a sealing cap 130 configured to fit tightly into the distribution conduit 86 and to seal the distribution orifice 38.
[0147] The sealing cap 130 protrudes from the lower face 122 of the cover 34 to a free edge 132.
[0148] The shutter cap 130 has a height h3, measured between the lower face 122 of the cap 34 and the free edge 132, typically between 4 mm and 8 mm.
[0149] The sealing cap 130 has a tubular wall 133 with an axis substantially perpendicular to the wall 120 of the cap 34, defining an outside diameter substantially equal to the inside diameter of the first portion 95 of the distribution passage 92.
[0150] When the cover 34 is in the closed position, the sealing cap 130 is received in the distribution conduit 86 and its tubular wall 133 seals tightly the first portion 95 of the distribution passage 92
[0151] Advantageously, the sealing cap 130 has a chamfered surface 134 at its free edge 132, visible in [Fig. 5]. The sealing cap 130 thus has a beveled end, facilitating its insertion into the distribution conduit 86.
[0152] The base 30, the intermediate platform 32 and the upper cover 34 are movable relative to each other by means of the hinges 40, 42.
[0153] The first hinge 40, called the lower hinge 40, connects the base 30 to the intermediate platform 32 and the second hinge 42, called the upper hinge 42, connects the intermediate platform 32 to the cover 34.
[0154] The intermediate plate 32 is adapted to be driven in rotation about an axis Cl passing through the first hinge 40. The upper cover 34 is adapted to be driven in rotation about an axis C2 passing through the second hinge 42. The axes Cl and C2 are preferably parallel.
[0155] Advantageously, as seen in Figures 1 to 9, the lower hinge 40 and upper hinge 42 are arranged on opposite edges of the intermediate plate 32. Thus, in the embodiment of [Fig. 1], the lower hinge 40 is located at the front face 8 of the device 10, and the upper hinge 42 is located at the rear face 9 of the device 10.
[0156] The two hinges 40, 42 are thus opposed to each other, so that the opening directions of the intermediate tray 32 and the cover 34 are reversed. As can be seen in Figures 2 and 3, the base 30, the intermediate tray 32 and the upper cover 34 are thus arranged in a fan shape.
[0157] This configuration helps to limit the risk for the user of inadvertently opening the intermediate tray 32 or the upper cover 34.
[0158] Preferably, as seen in figures 7 to 9, the lower hinge 40 is of the film hinge type.
[0159] Preferably, as seen in Figures 4 to 6, the upper hinge 42 is of the film hinge type. Advantageously, the upper hinge 42 includes reinforcing fins 140, such a hinge then being conventionally designated a butterfly hinge.
[0160] The capsule 14 includes gripping means allowing the opening of the intermediate tray 32 and / or the upper cover 34.
[0161] The capsule 14 includes first gripping means for opening the upper cover 34. The first means include, for example, a first indentation 182 formed on the base 30, on the side opposite the upper hinge 42.
[0162] The first imprint 182 corresponds to a material clearance forming a recess facilitating the lifting of the cover 34 by the user.
[0163] Advantageously, the first gripping means further include a gripping tab facilitating the gripping of the hood 4. For example, as seen in Figures 4 and 5, the gripping tab is formed by a tongue 184 forming an edge of the hood 34.
[0164] The capsule 14 includes second gripping means allowing the opening of the intermediate tray 32. The second means include a second imprint 192 formed on the base 30, on the side opposite the lower hinge 40.
[0165] The second imprint 192 corresponds to a material clearance forming a recess facilitating the lifting of the intermediate plate 32 by the user.
[0166] Advantageously, the second gripping means further include a gripping tab facilitating the gripping of the intermediate plate 32. For example, as seen in Figures 7 and 8, the gripping tab is formed by a tongue 194 forming a rim of the intermediate plate 32.
[0167] The first and second impressions 182, 192 are thus arranged on opposite faces of capsule 14.
[0168] Advantageously, as can be seen in [Fig. 1], the first and second impressions 182, 192 have different shapes and / or dimensions. This allows the user to easily differentiate between the two impressions 182, 192 and limits the risk of confusion for the user.
[0169] Preferably, the first impression 182, which allows the hood 34 to be opened, is larger than the second impression 192. Indeed, the hood 34 is intended to be opened more frequently than the intermediate tray 32.
[0170] Preferably, as shown in Figures 1 to 3, the container 12 also includes an indentation 185, here formed on the front face 8, so that, when the base 30 is mounted on the neck 22 of the container 12, the indentation 185 formed on the container 12 and the first indentation 182 formed on the base 30 of the cap 14 together form a continuous recess. This recess, located straddling the container 12 and the base 30, has, for example, a substantially circular shape. Typically, the recess has a diameter of between 10 mm and 30 mm, allowing easy opening of the cap 34.
[0171] For example, base 30 includes the entirety of the second imprint 192.
[0172] The gripping means are thus easily identifiable and discernible by the user.
[0173] Preferably, the capsule 14 comprises first position-holding means for maintaining the intermediate plate 32 in the closed position and second position-holding means for maintaining the upper cover 34 in the closed position
[0174] For example, as can be seen in Figures 7 and 8, said first means include spikes 202 projecting from the base 30, here more particularly from the inner edge 76 of each shoulder 70, and recesses 204 provided in the lateral edges 85 of the intermediate platform 32. The reliefs 202 are configured to snap into the recesses 204 so as to maintain the intermediate platform 32 in position relative to the base 30.
[0175] For example, as can be seen in Figures 4 and 5, the second means comprise the lateral edges 85 of the intermediate plate 32 and grooves 212 formed in the side edges 126 of the hood 34. The side edges 85 are configured to snap into the grooves 212 so as to hold the hood 34 in position relative to the intermediate plate 32.
[0176] Other means of maintaining in position are conceivable.
[0177] Preferably, the base 30, the intermediate tray 32 and the hood 34 are made of plastic material, for example polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE).
[0178] Advantageously, the base 30, the intermediate platform 32 and the hood 34 were made of material.
[0179] For example, the capsule 14 is formed in one piece by molding in its unfolded configuration, as seen in Figures 2 and 3. The fan-shaped arrangement of the base 30, the intermediate plate 32 and the cap 34 thus facilitates the manufacture of the capsule 14 in a mold, and in particular its demolding.
[0180] The operation of the conditioning and distribution device 10 will now be described.
[0181] With reference to [Fig.1], a device 10 as described above is provided.
[0182] The capsule 14 is mounted on the neck 22 of the container 12 and is located in its closed configuration.
[0183] The base 30 encloses the neck 22 of the container 12, by means of its internal skirt 60, and more particularly of the annular bead 64 which is snapped under the collar 28 of the neck 22 so as to fix the base 30 on the container 12.
[0184] The intermediate plate 32 is in its closed position. The sealing skirt 100 extends through the filling opening 36 and inside the neck 22 and bears against the internal surface 26 of said neck 22 so as to form a sealing contact with said surface 26.
[0185] As can be seen in [Fig.6], the neck 22 of the container 12 is thus received in a sealed manner in the annular receiving space 115 delimited radially by the internal skirt 60 of the base 30 and the sealing skirt 100 of the intermediate tray 32.
[0186] The tight contact between the collar 22 and the sealing skirt 100 keeps the intermediate plate 32 in the closed position. Advantageously, the keeping of the intermediate plate 32 in the closed position is also ensured by the snapping of the reliefs 202 projecting from the base 30 into the recesses 204 of the intermediate plate 32.
[0187] The upper cover 34 is also in its closed position. The sealing cap 130 extends tightly into the distribution channel 86 and seals the distribution orifice 38. The upper cover 34 is held in the closed position, for example, by the snapping of the side edges 85 into the grooves 212.
[0188] The product contained in the container 12 cannot therefore escape from said container, in particular through the opening 94.
[0189] Advantageously, as seen in [Fig.1], the intermediate plate 32 and the upper cover 34 are received in the housing 72 provided between the shoulders 70 of the base 30. Preferably, the upper face 124 of the cover 34 is flush with the free surface 74 of the shoulders 70, so that the capsule 14 has a substantially flat upper face.
[0190] When the user wishes to take some of the product contained in the container 12, he passes the capsule 14 into its dispensing configuration, as shown in figures 4 to 6.
[0191] For this purpose, the user moves the upper cover 34 from its closed position to its open position, in which the cover 34 is away from the distribution port 38.
[0192] For this purpose, the user rotates the cover 34 relative to the intermediate plate 32 which is in the closed position, by rotating it around the axis C2 of the upper hinge 42, for example by lifting the cover 34 by placing a finger at the first indentation 182 and applying pressure to the tab 184.
[0193] The sealing cap 130 is thus removed from the distribution conduit 86 which is then clear.
[0194] The product is then able to exit the container 12, passing through the opening 94 and the distribution conduit 86.
[0195] Then, after its use, the user returns the hood 34 to the closed position by pivoting the hood 34 so as to insert the sealing cap 130 into the distribution conduit 86. The shape of the distribution conduit 86, and more particularly the shape of the second portion 96 of the distribution passage 92, facilitates the insertion of the sealing cap 130 into the conduit.
[0196] When the user wishes to refill the container 12, for example after most or all of the product initially contained in the container 12 has been consumed, he passes the capsule 14 into its refilling configuration, as shown in Figures 7 to 9.
[0197] To do this, the user moves the intermediate plate 32 from its closed position to its open position. The upper cover 34 can be in the closed position, as shown in Figures 7 to 9, or in the open position, as shown in Figures 2 and 3.
[0198] The user rotates the intermediate plate 32 relative to the base 30, by rotating it around the axis Cl of the lower hinge 40, for example by lifting the intermediate plate 32 by placing a finger at the level of the second indentation 192 and by exerting pressure on the tab 194.
[0199] The sealing skirt 100 is then removed from the neck 22 of the container 12 and the filling opening 36 is exposed. The dimensions of the filling opening 36 allow easy filling of container 12. Indeed, as can be seen in [Fig.9], the access opening 21 to the container is thus completely clear.
[0200] Then, the user returns the intermediate plate 32, and possibly the cover 34, to the closed position, so that the sealing skirt 100 is applied closely against the internal surface 26 of the neck 22.
[0201] The use of capsule 14 according to the invention is thus particularly easy.
[0202] The capsule 14 according to the invention allows the container 12 to be reused once the product has been consumed, by refilling the container in a simple and efficient way, reducing the environmental impact of the packaging and distribution device 10.
[0203] The capsule 14 also ensures good preservation of the cosmetic product by creating an airtight seal of the container, notably by means of the sealing skirt 100. This limits the risks of product leakage or degradation.
[0204] The sealing skirt 100 makes it easy to ensure the sealing of the container, while retaining a filling opening 36 allowing easy filling of the container.
[0205] The handling of capsule 14 by the user is facilitated by the presence of well-differentiated gripping means.
[0206] Since capsule 14 is advantageously made in one piece, it is possible to manufacture it by a simple and conventional molding process, minimizing manufacturing costs.
[0207] Variations are possible.
[0208] For example, according to an unrepresented variant, the neck fixing means 22 include an external helical thread projecting from the external surface 24 and intended to cooperate with a complementary thread provided on the capsule 14, for example on the internal face 65 of the internal skirt 60.
[0209] According to an unshown variant, the intermediate tray 32 is without a distribution channel. The sealing cap 130 is configured to directly block the distribution orifice 38, which also acts as a distribution opening 94.
Claims
1. Demands A closure capsule (14) intended to be mounted on a neck (22) of a cosmetic product packaging container (12), the capsule (14) comprising: • a base (30) configured to be mounted on the neck (22) of the container (12), the base (30) comprising fastening means adapted to cooperate with fastening means of the neck (12), the base (30) comprising a bottom wall (50) in which a through-filling opening (36) is provided to allow the passage of the cosmetic product; • an intermediate tray (32) comprising a sealing skirt (100) projecting from a face (82) of the intermediate tray (32) and defining an internal space (109), the intermediate tray (32) comprising a product distribution orifice (38) opening into the internal space (109) of the sealing skirt (100), the intermediate tray (32) being movable relative to the base (30) by means of a lower hinge (40) between an open position, in which the intermediate tray (32) is away from the filling opening (36), and a closed position, in which the sealing skirt (100) is received through the filling opening (36); • an upper cover (34) comprising a sealing cap (130) configured to seal the distribution orifice (38), the cover (34) being movable relative to the intermediate plate (32) by means of an upper hinge (42) between an open position, in which the cover (34) is away from the distribution orifice (38), and a closed position, in which the cover (34) seals the distribution orifice (38), the capsule (14) being maneuverable between a closed configuration, in which the intermediate tray (32) and the hood (34) are in the closed position, a dispensing configuration, in which the intermediate tray (32) is in the closed position and the hood (34) is in the open position, and a filling configuration, in which at least the intermediate tray (32) is in the open position, the sealing skirt (100) being configured to bear against an internal surface (26) of the neck (22) of the container (12) when the cap (14) is mounted on said neck (22) and the intermediate tray (32) is in the closed position, so as to form a leak-proof contact with said internal surface (26).
2. Capsule (14) according to claim 1, wherein the lower hinge (40) and the upper hinge (42) are arranged on opposite edges of the intermediate tray (32).
3. Capsule (14) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the capsule (14) comprises gripping means configured to maneuver the capsule (14) between the filling configuration, the dispensing configuration and the closed configuration, the gripping means preferably comprising a first impression (182), allowing passage of the hood (34) from the closed position to the open position, and a second impression (192), allowing passage of the intermediate tray (32) from the closed position to the open position.
4. Capsule (14) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the dispensing orifice (38) has an area between 2% and 25% of the area of the filling opening (36).
5. Capsule (14) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base (30) comprises two shoulders (70) arranged on either side of the filling opening (36) and defining between them a housing (72) intended to receive the intermediate tray (32) and the hood (34) in closed configuration, preferably so that an upper face (124) of the hood (34) is flush with a free surface (74) of the shoulders (70).
6. Capsule (14) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base (30) comprises an inner skirt (60) projecting from the bottom wall (50), the means for fixing the base (30) to the neck (22) being mounted on said inner skirt (60), said inner skirt (60) and the sealing skirt (100) of the intermediate tray (32) defining an annular receiving space (150) intended to hermetically receive the neck (22) of the container (12) when the intermediate tray (32) is in the closed position.
7. Capsule (14) according to claim 6, wherein the inner skirt (60) of the base (30) has at least one notch (68) intended to cooperate with a notch arranged on the neck (22) of the container (12).
8. Capsule (14) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing skirt (100) has an annular bulge (110) of material towards the outside of said skirt (100).
9. Capsule (14) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base (30), the intermediate tray (32) and the cap (34) are made of material, preferably are made of plastic material.
10. Device (10) for packaging and dispensing a cosmetic product, the device (10) comprising: • a container (12) suitable for receiving the cosmetic product, the container (12) delimiting an interior of a reservoir (20), the container (12) comprising a neck (22), and • a capsule (14) according to any one of the preceding claims, said capsule (14) being mounted on the neck (22).