Cosmetic applicator

Abstract

Cosmetic applicator Applicator (2) comprising an application element (10) including: a support portion (12), at least one first structure (30; 30, 240, 250) comprising at least three non-coplanar flexible arms (30a, 30b, 30c, 30d; 30a, 30b, 240a, 240b, 250a, 250b) extending over at least part of their length away from the longitudinal axis, connected at one end to the support portion (12) and connected to each other at the other end to form a first cage, at least one second structure (20) comprising at least three non-coplanar flexible arms (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) extending over at least part of their length away from the longitudinal axis, connected at one end to the support portion (12) and connected at the other end to form a second cage, the distal end (22) of the second cage being closer to the support part than that of the first cage. Figure for the abbreviation: Fig. 2

Description

Title of the invention: Cosmetic applicator technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to applicators for applying a cosmetic, makeup or skincare product to human keratinous materials, in particular skin, lips or keratinous fibers such as eyelashes and / or eyebrows, and packaging and application devices comprising such applicators.

[0002] The invention relates more particularly to applicators comprising an application element made at least partially, or better yet totally, of plastic material, in particular of at least one thermoplastic material by injection molding.

[0003] The invention relates both to "dip-in" type conditioning and application devices, i.e., comprising an applicator and a reservoir into which the applicator is immersed to be loaded with composition, and to "flow-through" type devices in which the application element is supplied with composition by a device to which it is attached during application, such as a dispensing pen equipped with a composition dispensing mechanism, a compressible-walled container, or the like. Prior art

[0004] Dip-in type applicators used for eyelash or eyebrow makeup usually include an application element mounted at the end of a rod, the latter being connected at the other end to a gripping element, which also serves as a closing cap for the container containing the product.

[0005] The application member is conventionally loaded with product by being immersed in the container, which is provided with a wringer which has a lip to wipe the rod when it is extracted from the container and which generally defines an orifice of substantially circular cross-section whose diameter is adapted to that of the rod.

[0006] The behavior of the application member when passing through the wringer depends on many factors such as the shape and nature of the wringer lip as well as its dimensions, the geometry of the application member and the choice of the material or materials which constitute it.

[0007] Excessively vigorous wringing of the application element is likely to cause difficulty in extracting it from the container, and makes the application element very unloading, which forces the user to frequently re-dip the applicator into the container and may hinder the achievement of certain makeup effects.

[0008] Conversely, insufficient wringing leaves an excess of product on the application device which is difficult to distribute on the eyelashes and can lead to the presence of product clumps on the eyelashes, which are thus poorly separated.

[0009] Furthermore, the application member generally carries application elements consisting of pins whose arrangement influences the behavior of the applicator when it is extracted from the container and the resulting load.

[0010] Very flexible bristles will easily deform as they pass through the wiper, thus facilitating its removal, but their flexibility makes it more difficult for them to properly comb the eyelashes during application and to smooth the product on their surface. Furthermore, the wiper will tend to leave less product on the applicator.

[0011] Conversely, more rigid bristles will tend to deform less as they pass through the application device, leading to a greater loading of the application device with product and a better ability to comb and separate the lashes. However, they can make it more difficult for the device to pass through the wiper and result in a loss of sensory sensitivity during application.

[0012] The design of the applicator thus most often results from a compromise that must be found between various, sometimes contradictory, requirements concerning the quantity of product that is left on the application organ for makeup, the desired behavior when removing the application organ and the ability to separate eyelashes.

[0013] Conventionally, the pins are carried by a central core of the application member. However, application members have been developed in which the pins are carried by flexible arms.

[0014] Application FR3039382 describes an applicator comprising an elongated rod carrying an application member extending along a longitudinal axis. This application member has a core having one or more through openings. Branches connect at one end to the core and join through said opening.

[0015] In embodiment examples, the branches form several successive loops which are connected to each other at the level of the opening(s) of the core.

[0016] In another embodiment, the application member comprises a single loop connected at its ends to a support portion adjacent to the rod. The apex of the loop is located in the opening, bearing axially against an adjusting pin that slides longitudinally in a distal portion of the web. Thus, by pushing the adjusting pin in more or less deeply, it is possible to deform the loop and modify the properties of the applicator.

[0017] Application FR2993151 describes an application element for eyelash makeup, having a core with swollen portions extending around cavities.

[0018] Application EP2654490 discloses application elements comprising branches in the form of outwardly convex arches, arranged around a central core.

[0019] Application WO2023 / 233044 describes an application member comprising a plurality of branches having a twisted shape and connected to each other at their distal end.

[0020] US2021 / 0186183A1 describes an application member comprising a core connected at one end to a support portion carried by a mounting end in an applicator shaft. The core comprises a first portion extending forward and a second portion forming a return, the free end of which is located near the support portion. This return has arches through which the first portion of the core passes.

[0021] Such an application element has a relatively complex structure, not suitable for manufacturing by injection of thermoplastic material.

[0022] US patent 6655390 describes an eyelash makeup applicator comprising a perforated support carrying teeth, these connecting either directly to the support or to arches carried by the support.

[0023] Moreover, the application of makeup to the skin, nails or lips generally poses problems of precision of application, autonomy of the applicator and comfort of use, whether the applicator is of the "dip-in" or "flow through" type.

[0024] It is common practice to flock the application element in order to capture the composition and make it easier to spread. However, the flocking operation is relatively complex and involves the use of adhesives, which do not always provide the necessary mechanical strength under certain conditions of use.

[0025] Patent EP1726235B1 describes a flocked application element having several branches.

[0026] Application FR2722381 describes a nail polish applicator comprising an application element formed by a flocked flexible loop. Description of the invention

[0027] There is a need to further improve cosmetic applicators and in particular to remedy all or part of the drawbacks encountered in the prior art.

[0028] In particular, there is an interest in having an application device with satisfactory performance, which, when the applicator is used with a container equipped with a wringer, promotes the renewal of the product during a cycle of extraction and reinsertion of the applicator into the container, and whose mechanical properties can be modified relatively easily during the design phase, to adapt to the rheology of the product and the desired makeup effect.

[0029] There is also an interest in having an application element suitable for manufacturing by injection molding in thermoplastic material, which is less expensive to implement than additive manufacturing.

[0030] There is still a need for an applicator suitable for applying a composition to the skin or lips, which is comfortable to use and allows the presence of flocking to be avoided if desired, while retaining sufficient capacity to capture the composition. Summary of the invention

[0031] The invention aims to meet all or part of these needs, and it achieves this by proposing an applicator comprising an application element including: - a support component, - at least one first structure comprising at least three non-coplanar flexible branches extending over at least part of their length at a distance from the longitudinal axis, connected at one end to the support part and linked together at the other end to form a first cage, - at least one second structure comprising at least three non-coplanar flexible branches extending at least part of their length away from the longitudinal axis, connected at one end to the support part and connected to each other at the other end to form a second cage, the distal end of the second cage being less far from the support part than that of the first cage.

[0032] Such an applicator allows for a relatively large number of branches, which enables the composition to be retained by capillary action between the branches, while also offering great flexibility and ease of manufacture when the application element is produced by injection molding. In other words, the cages allow for the creation of numerous spaces between their branches, thus providing both capillary traps and a relatively large application surface.

[0033] The invention also allows, by varying the configuration of the branches, to obtain a wide variety of configurations of the application surface, which may be suitable for applying makeup to a smooth surface such as skin or lips, or to fibers such as eyelashes, in the presence of reliefs such as bristles, carried by the applicator.

[0034] The first and second structures can be flexible. By "flexible" it is understood that the branches can deform during application and / or when passing through the wringing element, in the presence of such a wringing element.

[0035] When the application device has application elements such as bristles or other raised features and is intended for applying makeup to eyelashes and / or eyebrows, the flexibility branches facilitate their deformation as they pass through the spin dryer, which on the one hand reduces stress on the bristles, and on the other hand creates internal movements of composition that promote its renewal, particularly from the inside out.

[0036] The flexibility of the arms provides comfort during application, and their elasticity allows the applicator to retain its shape, facilitating precise makeup application. The close proximity of the arms can create, as mentioned above, when the viscosity of the composition allows, capillary traps that capture the composition, thus eliminating the need for flocking. This simplifies the manufacture of the applicator and eliminates the compatibility and adhesion constraints of flocking in the presence of solvents that may be present in the composition.

[0037] The arms of the second cage can be angularly interposed between those of the first at their connection to the support part. This allows for a relatively large number of arms around the periphery of the application element, and therefore a larger application surface. This can also promote the capture of the composition by the external surface of the application element.

[0038] Alternatively, the arms of the first cage occupy the same angular position as the arms of the second cage, around the longitudinal axis of the application member. This can promote the retention of the composition within the application member, and can allow for an application member that is more resistant to radial compressive forces, such as those exerted, for example, when passing through the wringing member.

[0039] In examples of implementations of the invention, the application member is produced by injection molding of a single-piece thermoplastic material, which reduces manufacturing costs compared to additive manufacturing. This can also facilitate the use of recyclable or recycled plastics. The application member can be molded from a thermoplastic material selected from thermoplastic elastomers, SEBS, TPE, including Hytrel® (thermoplastic elastomer copolyester), TPV, PE, LDPE, HDPE, among others.

[0040] The application member may in particular be molded from a thermoplastic material having a Shore hardness ranging from 30 Shore A to 72 Shore D or more.

[0041] The application member is preferably made by injection molding of thermoplastic material, but it can be made otherwise when its shape does not allow it, in which case it is made for example by an additive manufacturing technique.

[0042] The number of branches of the first and / or second structures can be between 3 and 6 per structure, preferably equal to 4 or 6.

[0043] The first structure may include branches which are twisted around the longitudinal axis of the application member.

[0044] The arms of the first structure may not be connected to those of the second except by the support portion. Alternatively, the arms of the first structure are connected to those of the second structure, particularly in a median region of the application member, this connection preferably being made by means of connecting elements radially internal to the arms, such connecting elements preferably being arranged to butt against each other when the arms are pressed radially inwards. This can limit the radial deformation of the arms, particularly when passing through a wringing member.

[0045] Preferably, the first structure defines the distal end of the application organ.

[0046] The application element may be non-flocked, in particular due to the flexibility and the number of branches, which allow capillary retention, as mentioned above.

[0047] The application member may include application elements such as pins carried by at least one of the branches of the first and / or second structures.

[0048] The first structure can define an outer cage, having several branches, these connecting together at the distal end of the application member in a cross or a star shape, the branches preferably coming to tangent a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the application member.

[0049] Alternatively, the branches can connect to each other at the distal end of the application organ in a cone converging towards the distal end.

[0050] At least one of the first and second structures may carry a membrane. Such a membrane may be used to connect branches together, in order to increase mechanical strength without unduly stiffening the application member, and may also facilitate the production of the application member by molding thermoplastic material, as explained later.

[0051] Thus, in examples, the applicator may include loops, the branches of each loop connecting to the support part and joining at the top of the loop, a membrane connecting said loops, the second structure comprising branches connecting at one end to the support part and connected to each other at the other end by an arch. Application unit

[0052] The application member can be mounted on the end of a rod to be inserted into a container equipped with a wringer and to be loaded with composition.

[0053] Alternatively, the application element is fed directly from the container via a feed channel. In this case, the device does not include a wringer. This variant is more suited to an application element intended for application to the skin, lips, or hair.

[0054] The application member may include a mounting tip for an applicator rod; this tip may have a circular cross-section, with a constant diameter or a diameter decreasing towards the proximal end of the application member. The tip may form a shoulder with the support portion, the contour of which may be circular, with a diameter corresponding to the outside diameter of the applicator rod. This shoulder may abut against the rod during the mounting of the application member.

[0055] The mounting tip can be filled.

[0056] The tip can also be hollow, in particular in a variant where the application member has a housing and the rod has an extension passing through the tip and engaging in this housing, which allows the rigidity of the application member to be adjusted, as detailed later.

[0057] The nozzle can also be hollow and have a central opening through it when the application member is intended to be fixed in the mouth of a container, so as to form a composition supply channel, as mentioned above.

[0058] The support part may have a length that may be less than a quarter of the length of the apparent portion of the application member, that is to say in the presence of the aforementioned shoulder, of the length extending between the distal end of the application member and this shoulder.

[0059] The support part can also be longer, in particular to occupy the central space of the application member and to allow the formation of capillary traps with branches of the first and / or second structures arranged around it.

[0060] The support portion may bear bristles when the applicator is intended for applying a composition to keratin fibers such as eyelashes. The bristles are, for example, arranged in rows located in line with bristles on branches of the first and / or second structures.

[0061] The distal end of the application organ can be defined by the first structure.

[0062] Alternatively, the distal end of the application organ is defined by a distal part which extends between the distal end of the application organ and the first structure.

[0063] Such a distal part can be solid, and of cross-section for example circular, the distal part being able to have a longitudinal axis coinciding with the longitudinal axis of the support part and that of the tip.

[0064] The application device may be intended for applying the composition to a continuous surface, such as the skin or lips, or a discontinuous surface, such as keratin fibers, in particular eyelashes and / or eyebrows.

[0065] In the case of application to a continuous surface, the application element is advantageously flock-free. The flexibility of the arms, their shape, and their proximity can sufficiently retain the composition by surface tension, making such a flocking coating unnecessary. This simplifies the manufacture of the applicator and improves its reliability, as it is not necessary to ensure the resistance of the adhesive used to bond the flock fibers to the composition and the forces exerted during wringing or use.

[0066] When used to apply a composition to keratin fibers, the application device may have application features such as spikes or other raised features, which may be located on all or only a portion of the application device. "Spot or other raised feature" refers to any identifiable protrusion suitable for applying the composition to eyelashes and / or eyebrows, and in particular, capable of engaging between the eyelashes and / or eyebrows.

[0067] The aforementioned distal part can thus carry such application elements, when the applicator is intended for application on keratin fibers such as eyelashes or eyebrows.

[0068] The length of the distal part can then correspond to more than a quarter of the apparent length of the application organ.

[0069] These studs can be arranged in rows which are for example aligned with rows of studs carried by branches of the first and / or second structures.

[0070] The first and second structures may include branches that connect to the support part along a corresponding radial plane, at an angle with the longitudinal axis of the application member, this angle ranging, for example, from 0 to 90°, preferably between 0 and 60°. Such a preferential orientation of the branches can facilitate passage through the wringer.

[0071] The first and / or second structures may have branches having in cross-section a shape suitable for their demolding in an injection molding manufacturing process, in particular branches which in cross-section have straight sides diverging outwards, joined by a convex rounding outwards.

[0072] The applicator may consist, for defining the application surface of the composition, only of the application element, which may be a single piece. The application surface may thus be unflocked.

[0073] The application element can be made without the possibility of adjusting its configuration, unlike that described in the aforementioned FR3039382 application, and in particular without an element that can be fixed in one of two predefined positions. First structure

[0074] The first structure may exhibit axial symmetry with respect to the longitudinal axis of the application member, or only symmetry with respect to a median plane, or even be without any symmetry.

[0075] The first structure may have a length that corresponds to more or less half of the apparent length of the application member.

[0076] The first structure can define the distal end of the application member or serve to connect the support part to a distal part of the application member, which is for example solid or carrying another application element such as a twisted-core brush.

[0077] The distal part may thus comprise a solid or hollow central body, with or without a circular cross-section, centered on the longitudinal axis of a tip of the application member used for attachment to the applicator stem. The largest diameter of the distal part corresponds, for example, approximately to that of the support part.

[0078] The length of this distal part may or may not exceed that of the first structure.

[0079] The distal part may have a straight longitudinal axis aligned with that of the support part.

[0080] The first structure may include two diametrically opposed branches extending along a first plane, one of which is convex outwards, and the other is substantially parallel to it, as well as two other branches extending along a second plane perpendicular to the first, these two other branches being symmetrical to each other with respect to a median plane.

[0081] The first structure may have branches exhibiting at least one undulation, in particular several identical undulating branches, giving, for example, the first structure a general peanut shape.

[0082] The arms of the first structure can be connected to those of the second structure, particularly in a median region of the application member; this connection is made, for example, by means of connecting elements radially internal to the arms. Such connecting elements can be arranged to butt against each other when the arms are pressed radially inwards, as may be the case when passing through the wringer. This allows for a stronger scraping of the surface of the application member by the wringer.

[0083] The first structure may include branches which are twisted around the longitudinal axis of the application member, these branches being in examples joined at the distal end of the application member.

[0084] The first structure may comprise a cage having several branches defining an envelope surface whose diameter increases from the support part, passes through a maximum near the support part, and decreases to the distal end of the application member. Such a cage may thus have a profile in the general shape of a "teardrop".

[0085] When the first structure defines an outer cage, having several branches, these can connect together at the distal end of the application organ in a cross or a star shape, the branches for example coming to touch a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the application organ; this makes it possible to define a relatively large application surface at the head of the application organ, which can be useful for applying a composition to the skin or lips.

[0086] Alternatively, the branches connect to each other at the distal end of the application organ in a cone converging towards the distal end; this allows for a finer application tip at the distal end of the application organ. This can be useful for drawing a line on the eyelids or the contour of the lips, for example.

[0087] The first structure may comprise a cage having an eccentric head, with for example two opposite angled branches, having proximal portions parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support part and distal portions forming an angle with the proximal portion and directed to one side, and two other branches extending along a median plane of symmetry for the application organ, generally curved to the same side.

[0088] The first structure may comprise branches bearing a membrane, preferably on their inner periphery, this membrane having a free edge along at least a portion of its length. Such a membrane can facilitate the retention of the composition, which can be particularly useful when the composition has low viscosity. Second structure

[0089] The second structure may comprise four branches joined at one end, preferably two by two diametrically opposed.

[0090] These four branches can form two loops joined at the distal end of the cage, extending along two respective planes perpendicular to each other.

[0091] The branches may each have at least one undulation, each loop formed by two opposite branches having for example a general peanut shape when viewed from its plane.

[0092] The second structure may include a loop which is internally stiffened by a lattice-shaped structure, in particular a rhombus, connected both to a median area of ​​the opposite branches of the loop, to the top of the loop and to the support part.

[0093] The second structure may include a cage whose arms define, in a central area, a notch open to the outside. Such a notch may allow, when the application member has pins, for example, longer pins that connect at their base to the bottom of the notch.

[0094] The second structure may comprise a cage whose arms are twisted around the longitudinal axis of the application member. Such a twisted shape may improve the grip of the eyelashes when the arms bear prongs.

[0095] The second structure may include a cage having several branches defining an envelope surface whose diameter increases from the support part, passes through a maximum near the support part, and decreases to the distal end of the application member.

[0096] The second structure may include a cage whose apex is eccentric with respect to the longitudinal axis of the application member.

[0097] The second structure may comprise branches bordered on their inner periphery by a thin radial membrane, this membrane having a free edge along at least part of its length. The presence of such a membrane may improve the ability of the application element to retain the composition by capillary action, and facilitate manufacturing, as detailed later.

[0098] The second structure, just like the first, can have studs or other raised features when the application device is intended for applying a composition to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows. Additional structure

[0099] The application element may include an additional structure, distinct from the first and second structures.

[0100] This additional structure may include at least one loop, connecting at its ends to the support part, and extending in a plane containing the longitudinal axis of the application member, distinct from those in which the branches of the first and second structures extend.

[0101] The presence of this additional structure creates an additional surface for capturing the composition, and can carry application elements such as bristles, when the application organ is intended for eyelash and / or eyebrow makeup. The additional structure may, if necessary, be formed by a cage whose arms connect at one end to the support section and meet at the other end at the apex of the cage, which may be positioned axially between the distal ends of the first structure and the distal ends of the second structure. The cage forming the additional structure may, for example, have four arms. These arms may form two loops extending along planes that form a 45° angle with each other.

[0102] The additional structure may include at least one loop passing through an opening defined by a loop of the first structure. The second structure may include at least one loop passing through both a loop of the additional structure and a loop of the first structure. Branches

[0103] The first and second structures include flexible branches that can form loops or cages.

[0104] A loop may have two ends connected to the support part. These two ends may be connected to a surface which may be a surface of revolution of the support part or the same flat surface, for example a flat surface perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the application member.

[0105] A cage can be formed of at least three branches, preferably an even number of branches, for example 4 or 6.

[0106] The branches may have a circular or other cross-section, and preferably the branches have a cross-section suitable for manufacturing by injection molding of the application member.

[0107] The branches may in particular have a contour of symmetrical shape with respect to a median plane for the section, this contour being formed, on each side of this median plane, by the union of two substantially straight segments starting from a vertex, diverging outwards, and a rounded joining said segments.

[0108] Such a cross-sectional shape can facilitate the extraction of the mold used for injection molding, and thus limit the risk of damage to the application member during its extraction during demolding.

[0109] Preferably, two opposite branches of the same structure have, on the same side in the same plane of section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the application member, segments that are parallel to each other. This can facilitate the release of the shells used for molding the application member.

[0110] A branch can have a cross-sectional area between 0.01 and 20 mm², preferably between 0.2 and 5 mm². Its largest transverse dimension (i.e., the diameter in the case of a branch with a circular cross-section) can range from 0.1 to 4 mm, for example. The length deployed from a branch, between its connecting end to the support part and its opposite end, for example the distal end of the loop or cage to which this branch belongs, goes for example from 3 to 60 mm.

[0111] The application member can be inscribed in section in a circle with a diameter ranging from 4 to 12mm for an applicator intended for application on eyelashes or eyebrows, and a circle ranging from 4 to 17mm for an applicator intended for application on lips.

[0112] The arms may have, on at least part of their inner circumference, a thinner membrane, for example with a ratio ei / e2, where ei denotes the thickness of the arm and e2 that of the membrane, greater than 2, better than 3, and even better than 4. Such a membrane can facilitate the production of the application element by injection molding, by extending into the parting line. In addition to this advantage, the membrane can also increase the surface area available for retaining the composition, without unduly affecting the flexibility of the arms.

[0113] The term "loop" refers to a branch or series of branches that, together with one or more other parts of the application member, define a closed contour surrounding an interior space distinct from the branch(es). The loop may extend along a single plane, which contains the longitudinal axes of the branches. Alternatively, the loop may not extend in a single plane. The loop may be symmetrical or asymmetrical with respect to a median plane. The loop may have the ends of its constituent branch(es) located on the support part at the same axial position along the longitudinal axis of the application member. The branch(es) constituting the loop may extend angularly around a point located in the aforementioned interior space, at an angle of at least 120°, preferably at least 180°. Conditioning and application device

[0114] The invention also relates to a conditioning and application device, comprising: - an applicator according to the invention, - a container containing the mixture to be applied.

[0115] The container may include a wringer through which the application member passes when it is extracted from the container. Alternatively, the applicator is mounted on the container, which directly supplies the application member with the composition.

[0116] The orifice defined by the wringer, in particular its diameter, can be dimensioned such that the first and / or second structures deform upon passing through it. For example, the largest diameter of the application element (i.e., the diameter of the largest circle circumscribed about the cross-section of the application element) is between 1 and 2 times, or even between 1 and 1.5 times, the diameter of the wringing orifice (i.e., the diameter of the smallest circle circumscribed about the inner cross-section of this orifice).

[0117] The composition contained in the container may be a makeup or care product, in particular a makeup or skin or lip care product, or a mascara.

[0118] When the composition is intended for application to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows, the application device carries application elements such as pins or other application reliefs. Makeup process

[0119] The invention also relates, according to another aspect which can be combined with any of the other aspects of the invention detailed above, to a method of making up human keratinous materials, in particular skin, lips, eyelashes or eyebrows, by means of a conditioning and application device as defined above, this method comprising the step of applying the composition to the keratinous materials using the applicator.

[0120] The method may include rotating the application element around its axis, particularly when unscrewing the applicator previously screwed onto a threaded neck of the container, to twist the first and / or second structures upon contact with the wiper and tighten them radially. This can create forced circulation of the composition, thus promoting its renewal and improving wiping. In cases where the composition is relatively viscous, such as with mascara, the application element may tend to twist upon contact with the composition when unscrewing the container's closure, which also serves as the applicator's gripping element. Brief description of the drawings

[0121] The invention will be better understood upon reading the detailed description that follows, the non-limiting examples of its implementation, and upon examination of the accompanying drawing, in which:

[0122] [Fig-1] [Fig. 1] schematically and partially represents an example of a conditioning and application device comprising an applicator according to the invention,

[0123] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a partial perspective view of an example of an organ application according to the invention,

[0124] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a front view of the application member of [Fig.2],

[0125] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] illustrates an example of the implementation of application elements on the application organ of the [Fig.2],

[0126] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] represents, in partial perspective, a variant of the organ application,

[0127] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is a rear view of the application member of [Fig.5],

[0128] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.5],

[0129] [Fig.8] [Fig.8] is a longitudinal section along VIII-VIII of [Fig.7],

[0130] [Fig.9] [Fig.9] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.5] after rotation of the applying element around its axis,

[0131] [Fig.10] [Fig.10] is a longitudinal section along XX of [Fig.9],

[0132] [Fig. 11] [Fig. 11] represents, in perspective, a partial variant of the realization of the implementing body,

[0133] [Fig.12] [Fig.12] is a rear view of the application member of [Fig.11],

[0134] [Fig. 13] is a side view of the application member of [Fig. 11],

[0135] [Fig. 14] [Fig. 14] is a longitudinal section along XIV-XIV of [Fig. 13],

[0136] [Fig. 15] [Fig. 15] is a side view of the application member of [Fig. 11] after rotation around its longitudinal axis,

[0137] [Fig. 16] [Fig. 16] is a longitudinal section along XVI-XVI of [Fig. 15],

[0138] [Fig. 17] [Fig. 17] is a partial perspective view with cross-section of the application organ of the [Fig.11],

[0139] [Fig.18] [Fig.18] is a view similar to [Fig.17] from another angle,

[0140] [Fig. 19] [Fig. 19] represents, in partial perspective, a variant of the application element,

[0141] [Fig.20] [Fig.20] is a longitudinal section of the application member of [Fig.19],

[0142] [Fig.21] [Fig.21] represents in perspective a variant of the application member,

[0143] [Fig.22] [Fig.22] is a rear view of the application member of [Fig.21],

[0144] [Fig.23] [Fig.23] is a longitudinal section of the application member of [Fig. 21], in a cross-sectional plane containing two opposing branches of the inner cage,

[0145] [Fig.24] [Fig.24] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.21],

[0146] [Fig.25] [Fig.25] is a longitudinal section along XXV-XXV of [Fig.24],

[0147] [Fig.26] [Fig.26] represents in partial perspective, a variant of the organ application,

[0148] [Fig.27] [Fig.27] is a view analogous to [Fig.26] from another angle,

[0149] [Fig.28] [Fig.28] is a rear view of the application member of [Fig.26],

[0150] [Fig.29] [Fig.29] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.26],

[0151] [Fig.30] [Fig.30] is a longitudinal section along XXX-XXX of [Fig.29],

[0152] [Fig.31] [Fig.31] is another side view of the application member of [Fig.26],

[0153] [Fig.32] [Fig.32] is a longitudinal section along XXXII-XXXII of [Fig.31],

[0154] [Fig.33] [Fig.33] is a partial perspective view of a variant of an organ application,

[0155] [Fig.34] [Fig.34] is a rear view of the application member of [Fig.33],

[0156] [Fig.35] [Fig.35] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.33],

[0157] [Fig.36] [Fig.36] is a longitudinal section along XXXVI-XXXVI of [Fig.35],

[0158] [Fig.37] [Fig.37] is another side view of the application member of [Fig.33],

[0159] [Fig.38] [Fig.38] is a longitudinal section along XXXVIII-XXXVIII of the [Fig.37]

[0160] [Fig.39] [Fig.39] shows, in perspective, a partial variant embodiment of the application member,

[0161] [Fig.40] [Fig.40] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.39],

[0162] [Fig.41] [Fig.41] is a rear view of the application member of [Fig.39],

[0163] [Fig.42] [Fig.42] is a longitudinal section along XLII-XLII of [Fig.40],

[0164] [Fig.43] [Fig.43] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.39] in an observation direction perpendicular to that of [Fig.40],

[0165] [Fig.44] [Fig.44] is a longitudinal section along XLIV-XLIV of [Fig.43],

[0166] [Fig.45] [Fig.45] represents in perspective a variant of the application element,

[0167] [Fig.46] [Fig.46] is a partial longitudinal section of the application member of the [Fig.45] mounted in the applicator stem,

[0168] [Fig.47] [Fig.47] represents in perspective a variant of the application element,

[0169] [Fig.48] [Fig.48] is a partial longitudinal section of the application member of the [Fig.47] mounted in the applicator stem,

[0170] [Fig.49] [Fig.49] represents in perspective a variant of the application element,

[0171] [Fig.50] [Fig.50] is a front view of the application member of [Fig.49],

[0172] [Fig.51] [Fig.51] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.49],

[0173] [Fig. 52] [Fig. 52] is a side view of the application member of [Fig. 49], in an observation direction perpendicular to that of [Fig.51],

[0174] [Fig.53] [Fig.53] is a longitudinal section along LIII-LIII of [Fig.51],

[0175] [Fig.54] [Fig.54] is a longitudinal section in a cutting plane perpendicular to that of [Fig.53],

[0176] [Fig.55] [Fig.55] is a partial perspective view of a variant of the application element,

[0177] [Fig.56] [Fig.56] is a rear view of the application member of [Fig.55],

[0178] [Fig.57] [Fig.57] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.55]

[0179] [Fig.58] [Fig.58] is a longitudinal section along LVIII-LVIII of [Fig.57],

[0180] [Fig. 59] [Fig. 59] is a side view of the application member after rotation around its axis relative to [Fig.57],

[0181] [Fig.60] [Fig.60] is a longitudinal section along LX-LX of [Fig.59],

[0182] [Fig. 61] [Fig. 61] is a side view of the application member after rotation around its axis relative to [Fig.59],

[0183] [Fig.62] [Fig.62] is a longitudinal section along LXII-LXII of [Fig.61],

[0184] [Fig.63] [Fig.63] is a cross-section of the application member of the [Fig.55]

[0185] [Fig.64] [Fig.64] represents in isolation and partially, in perspective, a variant of the application device according to the invention,

[0186] [Fig.65] [Fig.65] is a rear view of the application member of [Fig.64],

[0187] [Fig.66] [Fig.66] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.64],

[0188] [Fig.67] [Fig.67] is a longitudinal section along LXVII-LXVII of [Fig.66],

[0189] [Fig. 68] [Fig. 68] is a side view of the application member after rotation around its axis relative to [Fig.64],

[0190] [Fig.69] [Fig.69] is a longitudinal section along LXIX-LXIX of [Fig.68],

[0191] [Fig.70] [Fig.70] is a side view of the application member after rotation around its axis relative to [Fig.68],

[0192] [Fig.71] [Fig.71] is a longitudinal section along LXXI-LXXI of [Fig.70],

[0193] [Fig.72] [Fig.72] is a cross-section of the application member of the [Fig.64]

[0194] [Fig.73] [Fig.73] shows in perspective a variant embodiment of the organ application,

[0195] [Fig.74] [Fig.74] is a front view of the application member of [Fig.73],

[0196] [Fig.75] [Fig.75] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.73],

[0197] [Fig.76] [Fig.76] is a longitudinal section along LXXVI-LXXVI of [Fig.75],

[0198] [Fig.77] [Fig.77] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.73] after a rotation around its longitudinal axis

[0199] [Fig.78] [Fig.78] is a longitudinal section along LXXVIII-LXXVIII of the [Fig.77]

[0200] [Fig.79] [Fig.79] is a side view of the application member after rotation around its axis relative to [Fig.77],

[0201] [Fig.80] [Fig.80] is a longitudinal section along LXXX-LXXX of [Fig.79],

[0202] [Fig.81] [Fig.81] represents in partial perspective, a variant of the organ application,

[0203] [Fig.82] [Fig.82] is a front view of the application member of [Fig.81],

[0204] [Fig.83] [Fig.83] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.81],

[0205] [Fig.84] [Fig.84] is a longitudinal section along LXXXIV-LXXXIV of the [Fig.83]

[0206] [Fig.85] [Fig.85] is a longitudinal section in a plane perpendicular to that of the [Fig.84],

[0207] [Fig. 86] [Fig. 86] is a side view of the application member, after rotation around its axis relative to [Fig.83],

[0208] [Fig.87] [Fig.87] is a longitudinal section along LXXXVII-LXXXVII of the [Fig.86]

[0209] [Fig.88] [Fig.88] is a side view of the application member, after rotation around its axis relative to [Fig.86],

[0210] [Fig.89] [Fig.89] is a longitudinal section along LXXXIX-LXXXIX of the [Fig.88]

[0211] [Fig.90] [Fig.90] is a perspective view of a variant of the application element,

[0212] [Fig.91] [Fig.91] is a front view of the application member of [Fig.90],

[0213] [Fig.92] [Fig.92] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.90],

[0214] [Fig.93] [Fig.93] is a longitudinal section along XCIII-XCIII of [Fig.92],

[0215] [Fig.94] [Fig.94] is a cross-section along XCIV-XCIV of [Fig.92],

[0216] [Fig.95] [Fig.95] represents in perspective a variant of the application element,

[0217] [Fig.96] [Fig.96] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.95],

[0218] [Fig.97] [Fig.97] is another side view of the application member of [Fig.95], after rotation of the application element around its axis,

[0219] [Fig.98] [Fig.98] is a longitudinal section along XCVIII-XCVIII of [Fig.96],

[0220] [Fig.99] [Fig.99] is a longitudinal section along XCIX-XCIX of [Fig.97],

[0221] [Fig. 100] [Fig. 100] is a front view of the application member of [Fig. 95],

[0222] [Fig. 101] Figure 148 shows in perspective a variant of the application element,

[0223] [Fig. 102] [Fig. 102] is a side view of the application member of [Fig. 101],

[0224] [Fig. 103] [Fig. 103] is a side view of the application member of [Fig. 101], in an observation direction perpendicular to that of [Fig.102],

[0225] [Fig.104] [Fig.104] is a longitudinal section along CIV-CIV of [Fig.102],

[0226] [Fig. 105] [Fig. 105] is a CV-CV cross-section of [Fig. 103],

[0227] [Fig. 106] [Fig. 106] is a front view of the application member of [Fig. 101],

[0228] [Fig. 107] [Fig. 107] is a partial perspective view, with cross-section, of the application organ of the [Fig. 101],

[0229] [Fig. 108] [Fig. 108] is a view analogous to [Fig. 107] with a section in a plane closer to the distal end,

[0230] [Fig. 109] [Fig. 109] is a view analogous to [Fig. 107] with a section in a plane even closer to the distal end,

[0231] [Fig. 110] [Fig. 110] represents in perspective a variant of the application member,

[0232] [Fig. 111] [Fig. 111] is a side view of the application member of [Fig. 110],

[0233] [Fig.112] [Fig.112] is a longitudinal section along CXII-CXII of [Fig.111],

[0234] [Fig. 113] [Fig. 113] is a cross-section along CXIII-CXIII of [Fig. 111],

[0235] [Fig. 114] [Fig. 114] is a front view of the application member of [Fig. 110],

[0236] [Fig. 115] [Fig. 115] represents in perspective a variant of an application element,

[0237] [Fig. 116] [Fig. 116] is a front view of the application member of [Fig. 115],

[0238] [Fig. 117] [Fig. 117] is a side view of the application member of [Fig. 115],

[0239] [Fig. 118] [Fig. 118] is a side view of the application member of [Fig. 115], after rotating a quarter turn relative to the observation direction of [Fig. 117], and

[0240] [Fig. 119] [Fig. 119] is a longitudinal section along CXIX-CXIX of [Fig. 118]. Detailed description

[0241] Figure 1 shows an example of a conditioning and application device 1 made according to the invention, comprising an applicator 2 and an associated container 3 containing a product P to be applied to human keratinous materials, for example eyelashes or eyebrows, or alternatively skin or lips, depending on how the applicator is made.

[0242] The container 3 has, in the example considered, a threaded neck 4 and the applicator 2 has a closing cap 5 arranged to attach to the neck 4 in order to close the container 3 in a leak-proof manner when not in use, the closing cap 5 also constituting a gripping member for the applicator 2.

[0243] Container 3 can still be made in another way.

[0244] The container 3 may include, as illustrated, a wringing device 6, for example snapped into collar 4.

[0245] The applicator 2 has a rod 7 with longitudinal axis Y, which connects at its upper end to the closing cap 5 and, at its lower end, to an application member 10, shown very schematically in [Fig.1], and which can be any one of those illustrated in the other figures or their variants.

[0246] The wringing member 6 can be any, and in the example considered comprises a lip arranged to wring the rod 7 and the application member 10 when the applicator 2 is removed from the container 3. The lip defines a wringing orifice 6a of diameter adapted to that of the rod 7.

[0247] The wringing element 6 can be made of elastomer.

[0248] The wringing orifice 6a may be circular in shape, possibly with slots. The diameter d of the spin orifice 6a is for example between 2.5 and 8mm.

[0249] The wringing member 6 may optionally have undulations, allowing the wringing orifice 6a to widen more easily when the application member 10 passes through it.

[0250] The spin-drying unit can still be adjusted, if necessary.

[0251] In the illustrated example, the rod 7 has a circular cross-section, but it does not depart from the scope of the present invention if the rod 7 has a different cross-section, the attachment of the cap 5 to the container 3 can then be carried out other than by screwing, if necessary. The wringing member 6 is adapted to the shape of the rod 7 and to that of the application member 10, where applicable.

[0252] Preferably and as in the example illustrated in [Fig. 1], the longitudinal axis Y of the rod 7 is straight and coincides with the longitudinal axis of the container 3 when the applicator 2 is in place on it, but we do not depart from the scope of the present invention when the rod 7 is not straight, forming for example a bend.

[0253] The rod 7 may, where appropriate, include an annular constriction on its portion which is positioned opposite the lip of the wringing element 6, so as not to mechanically stress the latter excessively during storage.

[0254] The rod 7 to which the application member 10 is attached may be rigid or at least partially, in particular entirely, flexible, in particular in the vicinity of the application member 10.

[0255] The application member 10 can be fixed to the rod 7 by any means and in particular by force mounting, snap-fitting, gluing, welding, stapling or crimping, in a corresponding housing 7a provided at the end of the rod 7. Alternatively, the application member 10 is made in one piece by molding material with at least part of the rod 7.

[0256] In the following description, some application elements are intended more specifically for applying eyelash or eyebrow makeup and have raised features such as small bumps. Other embodiments are more specifically intended for applying a composition to the skin or lips and do not have any bumps. These application elements without bumps are preferably unflocked, but alternatively are covered with flocking fibers on at least part of their surface. Some application elements are shown without the bumps intended to cover them, for the sake of clarity.

[0257] The application member 10 shown in figures 2 and 3 comprises an inner cage 20 formed of a first pair of branches 20a and 20b, extending along a plane PI and a second pair of branches 20c and 20d extending along a plane PI' which in this example is perpendicular to the plane PI, the branches 20a to 20d being joined at their distal end 22.

[0258] The application member comprises an outer cage 30 formed of a first pair of branches 30a and 30b, extending along a plane P2 and a second pair of branches 30c and 30d extending along a plane P2' which in this example is perpendicular to the plane P2, the branches 30a to 30d being joined at their distal end 32, which coincides with the distal end of the application member.

[0259] The planes PI and P2 make an angle of 45° with each other in the example considered.

[0260] The axial dimension of the outer cage 30 represents a very large part of the apparent length L of the application member, for example more than 80%, or even more than 90%.

[0261] The outer cage 30 has a general peanut shape, with a decrease in the distance to the X axis of branches 30a to 30d at about mid-length.

[0262] The inner cage 20 may also have a general peanut shape, with a decrease in the distance to the X axis of branches 20a to 20d at about mid-length.

[0263] The loop formed by branches 20a and 20b crosses planes P2 and P2', and the same is true of the loop formed by branches 20c and 20d.

[0264] Figure 4 shows an example of the arrangement of pins 61 on cages 20 and 30. The pins 61 are arranged, for example, as illustrated, in a row of radial pins 61 on each arm. This figure shows that the support portion, together with the mounting end 11, forms a shoulder 13, which is preferably circular and of diameter D substantially equal to that of the rod 7.

[0265] The variant of the application member 10 shown in Figures 5 to 10 comprises inner cages 20 and outer cages 30 as in the example of Figures 1 and 2.

[0266] The inner cage 20 has a larger outer diameter close to that of the outer cage 30, as can be seen in [Fig.6].

[0267] The inner cage 20 includes bridges 100a to lOOd connecting the distal end 22 of the cage 20 to respective mid-zones 27a to 27d of the branches 20a to 20d, as well as bridges 101a to lOld connecting the support part 12 to the mid-zones 27a to 27d.

[0268] These various bridges tend to stiffen the inner cage 20, which can thus stretch the wringing member further, which contributes to wringing the application member more vigorously as it passes through the wringing member.

[0269] The application member of figures 5 to 10 has pins (not shown) on cages 20 and 30, similar to the example in [Fig.4].

[0270] Figures 11 to 18 show another variant with inner cage 20 and outer cage 30 which differs from that described with reference to Figures 1 and 2 by the presence of four stops 110 each connecting a branch of the inner cage and an adjacent branch of the outer cage 30.

[0271] Each stop 110 has in cross-section a base 111 of general triangular shape, as seen in [Fig.96] in particular, this base 111 being connected at its longitudinal ends to the corresponding branches by radial uprights 112.

[0272] The length N of each stop 110 is for example between % and / 2 of the apparent length L of the application member 10.

[0273] The radial dimension of the uprights 112 is chosen such that the apex 113 of the base 111 is relatively close to the X-axis, so that when the arms of the cages 20 and 30 are pressed towards the center during the passage of the wringing element, the stops 110 bear against each other by their apex 113, which prevents the inward deformation of the arms. This results in a more thorough wringing of the application element as it passes through the wringing element.

[0274] We see on [Fig. 17] in particular that the branches of the cages 20 or 30 can present in section a general triangular shape, with two straight segments 31a and 31b which diverge outwards, starting from the same vertex, and joined opposite this vertex by a rounded 31c.

[0275] We also see that two opposite branches can have parallel segments 31a in section, and the same for segments 31b.

[0276] The application member of figures 11 to 18 has pins (not shown) on cages 20 and 30, similar to the example in [Fig.4].

[0277] The embodiment shown in Figures 19 and 20 differs from the previous one in that the branches of the external cage 30 and internal cage 20 are interrupted between the uprights 112, with only the bases 111 of the stops connecting the remaining portions of the branches.

[0278] This allows for greater flexibility in the head of the application member 10.

[0279] The application member of figures 19 and 20 advantageously has pins (not shown) on cages 20 and 30, like the example in [Fig.4].

[0280] The presence of the notches thus formed allows to accommodate longer and more flexible pins, and to benefit from a reserve of composition at their base.

[0281] The example of realization of figures 21 to 25 differs from that of figures 5 to 10 by the presence of reliefs 61 in the form of teeth on each of the branches of the inner cage 20 and outer cage 30. These teeth allow the application of the composition on eyelashes and / or eyebrows and the combing of these.

[0282] Figures 26 to 32 partially represent a variant of an application member with an outer cage 30 and an inner cage 20, the branches of which each have a general twisted shape around the longitudinal axis X of the application member 10.

[0283] The branches 30a to 30d of the outer cage 30 can connect substantially perpendicularly to each other, when viewed in projection in a plane perpendicular to the X axis, at the level of the distal end 32, as seen in particular in [Fig.27].

[0284] The same applies to the branches 20a to 20d of the inner cage 20 at the end 20, the branches 20a to 20d being angularly offset by 45° with those of the outer cage 30.

[0285] The branches 30a to 30d join the end 32 by being oriented along a cone with axis X, as do the branches 20a to 20d. All the branches connect to the support part 12 by being oriented forwards and outwards.

[0286] Each branch has a change in angular orientation around the X axis between its ends by which it connects to the support part 12 and to the other branches of the same cage of approximately 45° for example, in the same direction of rotation for all branches.

[0287] The branches 30a to 30d have undulations with a hollow 121 substantially at mid-length, bordered by bumps 122 and 123 on each side, giving the envelope of the application member 10 a generally peanut-shaped profile.

[0288] Branches 20a to 20d also have a wavy profile, with a hollow 124 substantially at mid-length, and bumps 125 and 126 on each side.

[0289] We can see in [Fig.27] in particular that each loop formed by a pair of opposite branches of the inner cage, for example branches 20a and 20b or branches 20c and 20d, passes through the loops formed by the opposite branches of the outer cage 30, for example branches 30a and 30b or branches 30c and 30d.

[0290] The application member of figures 26 to 32 has pins (not shown) on cages 20 and 30, like the example in [Fig.4].

[0291] The application member 10 shown in Figures 33 to 38 comprises an outer cage 30 and an inner cage 20, these defining a generally teardrop-shaped envelope surface with a maximum radius rmax located at a distance J from the shoulder 13, as illustrated in [Fig. 36]. For example, we have a ratio J / L, where Lest is the length of the application member measured from the shoulder 13, between 1 / 8 and 1 / 3, and rmax <D, D étant le plus grand diamètre de la partie de support 12 (qui correspond aussi sensiblement au diamètre de la tige) ce qui confère à l’organe d’application une forme relativement effilée.

[0292] The distal end 32 of the outer cage 30 may have a rounded shape, as seen in [Fig.35], for example substantially semi-circular in side view, which may allow the tip of the application organ to be used to apply the composition precisely and comfortably.

[0293] The branches 30a to 30d of the outer cage 30 can be straight over most of their length, as seen in [Fig.37], with for example an angle d between the axis of the straight portion and the X axis between 1 and 15°.

[0294] The branches 20a and 20b of the inner cage 20 extend along a plane PI and the branches 20c and 20d along a plane PI', and may exhibit a slight curvature 128 towards the inside, roughly halfway along its length, as can be seen in [Fig.36]. This allows for a slight reduction in wringing in this area, thus providing product reserves at this level.

[0295] The planes PI and PI's are perpendicular to each other in this example. The same is true of the planes P2 and P2' along which formworks 30a and 30b extend respectively on the one hand, and 30c and 30d on the other.

[0296] We see in [Fig.36] in particular that each loop formed by a pair of opposite branches of the inner cage, for example branches 20a and 20b or branches 20c and 20d, crosses the planes P2 and P2' of the loops formed by the opposite branches of the outer cage 30, for example branches 30a and 30b or branches 30c and 30d.

[0297] The application member of figures 33 to 38 has pins (not shown) on cages 20 and 30, similar to the example in [Fig.4].

[0298] The application element partially shown (without the pins) in figures 39 to 44 is intended for application on eyelashes and / or eyebrows.

[0299] It comprises an outer cage 30, comprising four branches 30a to 30d, and an inner cage 20, comprising four branches 20a to 20d.

[0300] Branches 30a to 30d each have a wavy shape, as do branches 20a to 20d.

[0301] The branches 30a to 30d join at an end 32 and connect at the opposite end to the support part 12. The branches 20a to 20d join at an end 22, located behind the end 32, and connect at the opposite end to the support part 12, respectively at the same angular positions, measured around the X axis, as the branches 30a to 30d, as can be seen in particular in [Fig.44].

[0302] Branches 30a to 30d and 20a to 20d are fitted with pins (not shown), like the example in [Fig.4].

[0303] Figures 45 and 46 show an application member 10 in which the structure 30 has the form of an external cage with six branches 30a to 30f, which connect at one end to the base of a distal portion 12m of generally conical shape of the support part 12, and join on the opposite side to the distal end 32 of the cage 30.

[0304] It can be seen in [Fig. 45] that the arms 30a to 30f can project slightly radially from the support part 12 at their ends. They can extend away from the support part 12 by diverging slightly, such that the cross-section with the largest transverse dimension Wmax is located approximately between the first fifth and half of the apparent length L of the application member 10.

[0305] This example also illustrates the possibility for the branches 30a to 30f of the external cage 30 to be oriented substantially parallel to a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X at the level of the end 32.

[0306] The application member 10 also includes an inner cage 20 which may have, as illustrated, the same number of branches as the outer cage 30, the branches 20a to 20f of the inner cage 20 having the same angular orientation around the X axis as the branches 30a to 30f.

[0307] The distal end 22 of the inner cage 20 is located behind the end 32 of the outer cage 30, the cage 20 being free on the distal side.

[0308] The branches 20a to 20f can join at the end 22 by coming to tangent a plane perpendicular to the axis X, as illustrated.

[0309] In the example considered, the mounting end 11 is hollow and traversed by a central housing 211 which extends substantially to the level of the connection zone of branches 20a to 20f to the portion 12m of the support part 12.

[0310] The extension 7b of the rod 7 can extend over substantially the entire length of the housing 211, as can be seen in [Fig.46].

[0311] The ratio Q / L, of the distance over which the extension 7b extends beyond the shoulder 13, relative to the total apparent length L, is relatively low in the example of figures 45 and 46, being for example between 1 / 10 and 1 / 3.

[0312] This Q / L ratio may however be higher, as illustrated in Figures 47 and 48.

[0313] In this embodiment, the support part 12 extends over a length G, measured from the shoulder 13, which represents, for example, more than half of the apparent length L of the application member 10.

[0314] The apparent length L can be substantially the same as in the example in Figures 45 and 46, the outer cage 30 being, for example, identical. However, the arms of the inner cage 20 are shorter. This results in an application member 10 with arms 30a to 30f that can be identical to those in the example in Figures 45 and 46, and therefore have the same flexibility, but whose application behavior may be different due to the greater rigidity of the support portion 12 and the inner cage 20.

[0315] The application member 10 of figures 49 to 54 is intended for the application of the composition to the skin or lips.

[0316] It has a support part 12 having for example a shape of revolution around the longitudinal axis X, and a generally biconical lateral surface, with a proximal portion 12j adjacent to the tip 11 and diverging towards the distal end of the application member 10, and a convergent distal portion 12k.

[0317] The application member 10 comprises a first structure having a loop 30 extending along a median plane of symmetry M, formed by two branches 30a and 30b, visible on [Fig.54] in particular, which meet at the end 32 of the loop 30 and connect at the other end to the portion 12k of the support part 12.

[0318] The first structure also includes loops 240 and 250 located on either side of a median plane of symmetry perpendicular to plane M.

[0319] The loop 240 has branches 240a and 240b which connect to the distal portion 12j of the support part 12 and join at the apex 242 of the loop. The same is true of branches 250a and 250b of the loop 250.

[0320] The loop 30 carries a membrane 321 at the level of the concavity formed at its end 32, and this membrane extends to the vertices 242, 252 of the loops 240 and 250.

[0321] Thus, branches 30a, 30b, 240a, 240b, 250a and 250b have their proximal ends connected to the support part 12 and are connected together on the opposite side to the support part 12 by membrane 321 to form a first cage.

[0322] The application member 10 also includes a structure 20 in the form of a four-pronged cage 220a, 220b, 220c and 220d connecting at one end to the portion 12k of the support part 12. The prongs 220a and 220d form a loop on one side of the median plane of symmetry M, as can be seen in [Fig. 50]. The same is true of the prongs 220b and 220c, on the other side of this plane M. Each of these loops is joined at its apex 222 to the other loop by an arch 221 having a concave shape towards the distal end of the application member 10, as can be seen in particular in [Fig. 53].

[0323] Thus, the diametrically opposed branches 220a and 220b form with the arch 221 a loop which crosses the plane of the loop 30, and the same is true of branches 220c and 220d.

[0324] The vertices 222 are free on the distal side.

[0325] The branches of the different structures 20, 30, 240 and 250 are arranged, for example angularly at 30° to each other for branches 220a, 240a, 30a, 240b and 220c, as seen in [Fig. 50]. The same applies to branches 220b, 250b, 30b, 250a and 220d.

[0326] The branches 220d and 220a are arranged at 60° to each other around the X axis. The same is true of the branches 220c and 220b.

[0327] Such an arrangement of the branches allows us to benefit from an application surface all around the X axis.

[0328] The presence of the arch 221 tends to stiffen the loops formed by branches 220a and 220d on one side, and 220b and 220c on the other.

[0329] The membrane 321 allows both to have an additional surface for capturing the composition, and to stiffen the loops 240 and 250 by making them fixed, via the membrane 321, to the loop 30.

[0330] Conversely, loop 30 is stiffened by loops 240 and 250 via membrane 321.

[0331] In the illustrated example, the membrane 321 does not cut the entire section of the branches of the loops 240 and 250 at their respective vertices 242 and 252, but alternatively the membrane 321 cuts the entire section.

[0332] The membrane 321 is preferably of low thickness e2 compared to eb with e / e2>2, better ei / e2>3, even better ei / e2>4.

[0333] Figures 55 to 63 show an example of an application member 10 with longitudinal axis X, produced for example by injection molding of at least one thermoplastic material, comprising an end piece 11 for fixing to the rod 7, intended to be received in the housing 7a of the latter.

[0334] The tip 11 extends towards the distal end of the application member 10 by means of a part 12, centered on the axis X, forming a shoulder 13.

[0335] Part 12 serves as a support for a first structure 30 having an armature in the form of a cage, composed of four branches 30a to 30d two by two diametrically opposed with respect to the longitudinal axis X of the application member.

[0336] The opposite branches 30a and 30b extend along a plane P2, containing the X axis.

[0337] The opposing branches 30c and 30d extend along a plane P2', perpendicular to the plan P2, as illustrated in [Fig.2].

[0338] The branches 30a to 30d join at an end 32 which is preferably centered on the X axis.

[0339] As can be seen in particular in [Fig.1], the branches 30a to 30d of the first structure 30 have an undulating shape with a proximal portion 34 convex outwards, an intermediate portion 35 concave inwards, and a distal portion 36 convex outwards, giving the cage a peanut shape in side view.

[0340] The branches 20a to 20d of the second structure 20 also have an undulating shape, with a proximal portion 24 convex outwards, an intermediate portion 25 concave outwards, and a distal portion 26 convex outwards, as seen in particular on [Fig.61].

[0341] The opposite branches 20a and 20b extend along a PI plane, containing the X axis.

[0342] The opposing branches 20c and 20d extend along a plane PI', perpendicular to the plan PI, as illustrated in [Fig.56].

[0343] Planes PI and P2 are offset by 45 degrees from each other, allowing branches 20a to 20d of the second structure 20 to extend between branches 30a to 30d of the first structure 30.

[0344] The distal end 22 of the second structure 20 is set back along the X-axis relative to the distal end 32 of the first structure 30, leaving a space free which allows increased deformation and mobility of both structures 20 and 30 during application.

[0345] The opposite branches 20a and 20b of the second structure 20 form with the support part 12 a loop which carries a membrane 27 all around its inner perimeter.

[0346] The opposite branches 20c and 20d also form with the support part 12 a loop which carries a membrane 28 all around its inner perimeter.

[0347] The membranes 27 and 28 are perpendicular to each other, meeting on the X axis. They increase the capacity of the application member 10 to capture the composition. The thickness e2 of the membranes 27 and 28 is less than that ei of the branches 20a to 20d or 30a to 30d, with a ratio ei / e2 greater than or equal to 2, ideally 3 or 4. The small thickness of the membranes 27 and 28 gives them flexibility and suppleness, allowing the application member 10 to deform easily when passing through the wringing member 6.

[0348] The branches 20a to 20d and 30a to 30d each have a generally triangular cross-section, facilitating the demolding of the application member. This cross-section is formed by two substantially straight segments 301, converging towards the X axis, joined by a rounded 302 convex outwards.

[0349] The application member of Figures 55 to 63 may carry pins (not shown) or other reliefs for the application of the cosmetic composition to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows, implanted in various configurations, for example with a row of pins on each of the branches of structures 20 and 30, as in the example of [Fig. 4],

[0350] The application member of figures 64 to 72 differs from that of figures 55 to 63 by the presence of two membranes 37 and 38 carried by the structure 30.

[0351] Membrane 37 occupies the space inside the loop formed by branches 30a and 30b, and membrane 38 that formed by branches 30c and 30d.

[0352] Membranes 37 and 38 are flat and perpendicular.

[0353] The thickness of membranes 37 and 38 is preferably, as illustrated, the same as that e2 of membranes 27 and 28.

[0354] All membranes 27, 28, 37 and 38 intersect along the X axis, as seen in [Fig.72], the set of membranes forming in cross-section, in a plane perpendicular to the X axis, an eight-rayed star.

[0355] The presence of the membranes facilitates the production of the application member by injection molding when each parting line is chosen at mid-thickness of a corresponding membrane. It also allows for a larger surface area for capturing the composition, without unduly stiffening the application member 10, due to their thinness.

[0356] The application member of figures 64 to 72 may carry pins (not shown) for applying the cosmetic composition to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows, implanted in various configurations, for example with a row on each of the branches of structures 20 and 30.

[0357] The application member 10 shown in Figures 73 to 80 has support parts 12 and distal part 15 connected by four branches 30a, 30b, 30c and 30d, of an arched shape convex outwards. Branches 30a and 30b are diametrically opposed and form with the distal part 15 a first loop extending along a plane P2, and branches 30c and 30d likewise form a second loop along a plane P2' making an angle with the first, for example of 90° as can be seen in [Fig. 74],

[0358] The branches 30a to 30d together with the distal part 15 form a first cage 30.

[0359] The application member 10 also includes, in this example, a second cage 20 formed by four branches 20a, 20b, 20c and 20d, branches 20a and 20b forming a first loop extending along a plane PI and branches 20c and 20d a second loop extending along a plane PI', planes PI and PI' being for example arranged at 90° to each other, and plane PI making for example an angle of 45° with plane P2.

[0360] The branches are joined in 22, at the distal end of the cage 20, at a distance from the distal part 15, as can be seen in particular on [Fig.76].

[0361] The application member 10 may include two internal loops 80 and 84 extending each in the plane P3', the loop 84 connecting to the support part 12 and the loop 80 to the distal part 15, as seen in particular in figures 73 and 78.

[0362] The two loops 84 and 80 are connected at their vertices by a bridge of material 81 which extends along the longitudinal axis X.

[0363] The application organ of figures 73 to 80 is advantageously provided with pins (not shown) on the distal part 15 and / or the branches 30a to 30d.

[0364] The application member shown in figures 81 to 89 differs from that of figures 73 to 80 by the shape of the arms 20a, 20b, 20c and 20d of the cage 20.

[0365] Whereas in the example of Figures 73 to 80 the branches are generally in the shape of an arch concave towards the X axis, in the example of Figures 81 to 89 the branches each have a wavy shape, with two end portions 427 and 428 concave towards the X axis and an intermediate portion 429 convex towards the X axis, giving the cage 20 in side view a general peanut shape.

[0366] The application member of Figures 81 to 89 is advantageously provided with prongs (not shown) on the arms 30a to 30d, the arms 20a to 20d, and optionally on the distal part 15 and / or the support part 12. The hollow formed by the Portions 429 allow for longer, more flexible spikes on them, and allow for the accumulation of more composition at their level.

[0367] The number of branches of the multi-branch structures 20 and 30 can vary, and the variant of the application element 10 shown in figures 90 to 94 has inner cages 20 and outer cages 30 with six branches each.

[0368] The inner cage 20 comprises a first pair of branches 20a and 20b, extending along a plane PI, a second pair of branches 20c and 20d, extending along a plane PI' and a third pair of branches 20e and 20f extending along a plane PI”, the planes PI, PI' and PI” forming an angle of 60° between them.

[0369] The outer cage 30 comprises a first pair of branches 30a and 30b, extending along a plane P2, a second pair of branches 30c and 30d, extending along a plane P2' and a third pair of branches 30e and 30f extending along a plane P2”, the planes P2, P2' and P2” forming an angle of 60° between them.

[0370] Planes PI and P2 form an angle of 30° with each other.

[0371] The distal end 32 of the outer cage 30 has a convex surface with a relatively large radius of curvature, for example with a radius of curvature substantially equal to half the diameter of the application member, for example with a radius of curvature between 4 and 6 mm.

[0372] The application element 10 has a form factor L / Dmax which is for example between 2 and 4, or even 2 and 3.

[0373] The relatively high number of branches and their proximity allows for a strong retention capacity of a fluid composition, relatively low viscosity, and a large lateral application surface, as well as at the end.

[0374] We see in [Fig.91] in particular that each loop formed by a pair of opposite branches of the inner cage 20, for example branches 20a and 20b, branches 20c and 20d or branches 20e and 20f, crosses the planes P2, P2' and P2'' of the loops formed by the opposite branches of the outer cage 30, for example branches 30a and 30b, branches 30c and 30d or branches 30e and 30f.

[0375] The applicator shown in Figures 90 to 94 is specifically designed for application to the skin or lips and does not have similar protrusions or raised features. The high number of prongs and the shape of the applicator head allow for good absorption of the composition, even without a flocking coating.

[0376] The application organ variant 10 shown in figures 95 to 100 is intended for applying the composition to the skin or lips, and comprises an inner cage 20 and an outer cage 30, each formed of four branches.

[0377] The application member 10 has symmetry with respect to a median plane M which coincides with the cutting plane of [Fig.99].

[0378] The outer cage 30, viewed from the side, has a curvature that offsets its head. The branches 30a and 30b each have two straight portions joined by a bend 37, as can be seen in [Fig. 96]. The same is true of the branch 30d, as seen in [Fig. 99]. The branches of the inner cage 20 meet at its distal end 22, forming a cross in the front view, and the same is true of those of the outer cage 30, the two crosses being angularly offset by 45° in the front view.

[0379] The branches 20a and 20d are further away from the median plane M than are the opposite branches 20c and 20b, located on the side towards which the head of the application member 10 is eccentric, as can be seen in [Fig. 100].

[0380] It can be seen in [Fig.95] in particular that each of the loops formed by opposite branches of the inner cage 20 passes through the loops formed by opposite branches of the outer cage 30.

[0381] The support part 12 may have, as illustrated, a generally frustoconical projection, centered on the X axis. Such a projection allows a capillary retention of composition to be formed at the rear of the application member.

[0382] The offset of the head of the application element 10 allows for greater wringing on the offset side, thus reducing the surface area loaded with composition. Furthermore, the arms are closer together on the offset side, resulting in a larger contact area with the area to be treated.

[0383] The application members 10 described above with reference to Figures 1 to 100 are intended to be mounted at the end of an applicator rod. It remains within the scope of the present invention when the application member 10 is arranged to be supplied with composition from a reservoir to which it is permanently fixed.

[0384] Such a provision may be suitable when the composition is to be applied to the skin or lips.

[0385] In this case, the application member 10 is made with at least one composition supply channel, communicating with the reservoir. The nozzle 11 is fixed in a sealed manner in an opening communicating with the reservoir (not shown).

[0386] By way of example, figures 101 to 109 show an application member of this type, intended for application on the skin or lips, which differs from that of figures 95 to 100 in particular by the presence of a composition supply channel 371, formed in the center of a central body 373 extending forward the support part 12.

[0387] The supply channel 371 can receive composition from a dispensing device to which the applicator is associated, upstream of the applicator and allowing to supply this channel with composition, such as a dispensing pen equipped with a composition dispensing mechanism, a compressible wall container, or other.

[0388] This figure also illustrates the possibility of making the application member 10 with additional reliefs for capturing the composition, these reliefs comprising for example a set of radial lamellae 375 extending along the body 373, membranes 378 extending along the branches of the inner cage 20 and membranes 377 extending along the branches of the outer cage 30.

[0389] The membranes 378 are directed radially and provide openings 379 with the central body 373.

[0390] The membranes 377 are also directed radially towards the central body 373 and provide openings 381 with it.

[0391] The membranes 377 join the central body 373 from a certain distance from the support part 12, moving towards it, as can be seen in figures 164 to 166.

[0392] Figures 104 and 109 show that the channel 371 opens laterally on the opposite side to the eccentricity of the head of the application member 10 (i.e. upwards on [Fig. 104]) through an opening 372. The latter is preferably, as illustrated, closer to the distal end of the application member 10 than to the shoulder 13 at the base of the support part 12.

[0393] The lamellae 375 extend radially outwards between a branch of the inner cage 20 and a branch of the outer cage 30, substantially in a bisecting plane of the membranes 377 and 378, as can be seen in particular in [Fig.105].

[0394] The lamellae 375 together with the membranes 377 and 378 form capillary traps which retain the composition, and thus tend to make the distribution of the composition within the application organ more homogeneous.

[0395] The membranes 377 and 378 have a reduced thickness e2 compared to that ei of the strands of material constituting the adjacent branches 20a to 20d or 30a to 30d, and do not unduly impair the flexibility of the applicator when used to apply the composition to the skin or lips. For example, ei / e2>2, better ei / e2>3, even better ei / e2>4.

[0396] Openings 379 and 381 ensure the circulation of the composition over almost its entire perimeter.

[0397] As in the previous example, each loop formed by two diametrically opposed branches of the inner cage 20 crosses the plane of the loops formed by two diametrically opposed branches of the outer cage 30.

[0398] The application member shown in Figures 110 to 114 is intended for application to the skin or lips, and comprises outer cages 30 and inner cages 30 20, each comprising several branches, in this case six, connected at one end to the support part 12 and at the other to the vertices 32 and 22, respectively, of the cages.

[0399] The diametrically opposed branches 20a and 20b of the cage 20 extend according In plane P10, branches 20c and 20d extend along plane P10', and branches 20e and 20f extend along plane P10. The diametrically opposed branches 30a and 30b of cage 30 extend along plane P10, branches 30c and 30d along plane P10', and branches 30e and 30f along plane P10. Thus, there is no angular offset between the locations of the branches of cage 20 and those of cage 30.

[0400] The loop formed by branches 20a and 20b passes through that formed by branches 30c and 30d. The same is true for the other pairs of opposite branches of cage 20.

[0401] The variant in Figures 115 to 119 differs from the example in Figures 49 to 54 by the presence of a central column 330 extending along the X axis, having a proximal portion 331 connecting the support part 12 and the arch 221 in its middle, and a distal portion 332 connecting the arch 221 to the membrane 321, as seen more particularly in [Fig. 119].

[0402] Portion 331 may have a conical shape whose section decreases towards the arch 221. Portion 332 may have a constant section, as illustrated.

[0403] The presence of the central column 330 further stiffens the application member 10 and provides an additional surface area for capturing the composition. It can also facilitate the flow of the thermoplastic material during the injection molding of the application member.

[0404] The strands of material constituting the branches of the different structures in the examples of figures 200 to 215 may or may not have the same cross-section.

[0405] The branches may be of circular section, branches 220a to 220d being for example of smaller diameter than branches 240a, 240b, 250a and 250b, itself smaller than that of branches 30a and 30b.

[0406] The diameter of branches 220a to 220d of the examples in figures 50 to 53 and 115 to 119 is for example 0.75mm, that D2 of branches 240a, 240b, 250a and 250b is for example 0.8mm and that D3 of branches 30a and 30b is for example 0.85mm.

[0407] The width of the application member 10 of the examples in Figures 50 to 53 and 115 at 119, measured perpendicular to the median plane M is for example between 5 and 6mm, in particular about 5.5mm, and that measured parallel to the median plane between the radially outermost sides of branches 30a and 30b is preferably greater, and is for example between 6.5 and 7.5mm, in particular about 7mm.

[0408] In the examples in Figures 50 to 53 and 115 to 119, we have, for example, an apparent length L of the application member between 10 and 20mm, in particular between 13 and 17mm, for example approximately 14.5mm.

[0409] The axial dimension of the support part 12 is for example between 2 and 3mm, in particular on the order of 2.5mm.

[0410] The diameter of the support portion 12 at its base is, for example, between 4 and 5 mm, for example approximately 4.5 mm. The largest diameter of the support portion 12, at the junction between portions 12j and 12k, is, for example, approximately 5.3 mm.

[0411] The thickness e2 of the membrane 321 is for example 0.2mm, and the thickness ei of the loop 30 is for example 0.8mm as mentioned above.

[0412] Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples just described.

[0413] In particular, the cross-sectional shape of the branches can be modified to facilitate manufacturing by injection molding. In particular, the branches can be given a substantially triangular shape as illustrated in [Fig. 72].

[0414] When produced by injection molding, the application member can be made in one piece by single injection, double injection or multi injection.

[0415] In variants not illustrated, the application members described above without pins may be provided with pins, or any other application elements, or even any surface structuring.

[0416] The expression "comprising one" should be understood as synonymous with "comprising at least one", unless otherwise specified.

Claims

Demands

1. Applicator (2) comprising an application member (10) including: - a support portion (12), - at least one first structure (30; 30, 240, 250) comprising at least three non-coplanar flexible arms (30a, 30b, 30c, 30d; 30a, 30b, 240a, 240b, 250a, 250b) extending for at least part of their length away from the longitudinal axis, connected at one end to the support portion (12) and connected to each other at the other end to form a first cage, - at least one second structure (20) comprising at least three non-coplanar flexible arms (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) extending for at least part of their length away from the longitudinal axis, connected at one end to the support portion (12), support (12) and connected together at the other end to form a second cage, the distal end (22) of the second cage being less far from the support part than that of the first cage.

2. Applicator according to claim 1, the branches (30a, 30b, 30c, 30d) of the first structure and the branches (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) of the second structure alternating around the longitudinal axis (X) of the application member, in the area of ​​connection to the support part.

3. Applicator according to claim 1, the arms (30a, 30b, 30c, 30d) of the first structure and the arms (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) of the second structure occupying the same angular positions around the longitudinal axis (X) of the application member, in the area of ​​connection to the support part.

4. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, the number of branches of the first and / or second structures being between 3 and 6, preferably equal to 4 or 6.

5. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, the first structure (30) comprising branches which are twisted around the longitudinal axis (X) of the application member (10).

6. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, the branches of the first structure (30) being connected to those of the second structure (20), in particular in a median region of the application element; this connection preferably being using connecting elements (110) radially internal to the branches, such connecting elements preferably being arranged to butt against each other when the branches are pressed radially inwards.

7. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, the first structure (30) defining the distal end (32) of the application member.

8. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, being unflocked.

9. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, the application member comprising application elements such as pins (61) carried by at least one of the branches of the first and / or second structures.

10. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, the first structure (30) defining an outer cage, having several branches, these connecting together at the distal end of the application member in a cross or a star, the branches preferably coming tangent to a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X) of the application member (10).

11. Applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 9, the arms connecting to each other at the distal end of the application member in a cone converging towards the distal end.

12. Applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 9, the application member comprising loops (240, 250), the branches of each loop connecting to the support part (12) and joining at the top (242; 252) of the loop, a membrane (321) connecting said loops, the second structure comprising branches (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) connecting at one end to the support part (12) and connected to each other at the other end by an arch (421).

13. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, at least one of the first and second membrane-bearing structures (27; 28; 37; 38; 321).

14. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, being injection molded in a thermoplastic material, in particular elastomer.

15. Conditioning and application device (1), comprising: - an applicator as defined in any one of the preceding claims, - a container (3) containing the composition to be applied.