Cosmetic applicator

Abstract

Cosmetic applicator Applicator (2) comprising: An application element (10) extending along a longitudinal axis (X), comprising: At least one support portion (12), at least one first structure (30; 1030) comprising at least two flexible branches (30a, 30b; 1030a, 1030b) extending at least part of their length away from the longitudinal axis (X), connected at one end to the support portion (12), at least one second structure (20; 1020) comprising at least one branch, this second structure extending at least partially between the two branches of the first structure, at least one of the branches of the first and second structures carrying a membrane (27; 28; 37; 38; 377; 378; 1025; 1035) of lesser thickness (e2) than that (e1) of the branch. Figure for The abridged version: Fig. 25

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] French application FR3039382 describes an applicator comprising an elongated rod carrying an application member extending along a longitudinal axis. This application member has a core with one or more through openings. Branches connect at one end to the core and meet through said opening. In some embodiments, the branches form several successive loops that are connected to each other at the opening(s) in the core. In another embodiment, the application member has 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 adjustment pin that slides longitudinally in a distal portion of the core. Thus, by pushing the adjustment pin in more or less, it is possible to deform the loop and modify the properties of the applicator.

[0015] Application FR2993151 describes an application element for eyelash makeup, having a core with swollen portions extending around cavities.

[0016] Application EP2654490 discloses application elements comprising branches in the form of outwardly convex arches, arranged around a central core.

[0017] 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.

[0018] US2021 / 0186183A1 describes an application member comprising a core connected at one end to a support portion carried by a mounting tip in an applicator rod. 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.

[0019] Such an application element has a relatively complex structure, not suitable for manufacturing by injection of thermoplastic material.

[0020] 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.

[0021] Moreover, makeup for 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.

[0022] 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.

[0023] Patent EP1726235B1 describes a flocked application element having several branches.

[0024] Application FR2722381 describes a nail polish applicator comprising an application element formed by a flocked flexible loop.

[0025] In addition, it may prove useful to make the application gentler by allowing some mobility of the application surface relative to the longitudinal axis of the rod.

[0026] Thus, US patent 9033604 proposed an applicator comprising, between the stem and an application element consisting of a twisted-core mascara brush, an attached flexible portion. The presence of this flexible portion complicates the assembly of the application element.

[0027] It is also known, notably from US9277800 and US8096306, to give the outer surface of an application element provided with pins a shape passing through a minimum cross-section in an intermediate zone, by adjusting the length of the pins and / or the cross-section of the core carrying the pins. The pins located in the zone Smaller brush heads tend to be less tightly wrung and have a higher concentration of coating. However, shorter bristles can reduce effective engagement with the lashes. Furthermore, the core typically has a small diameter, making it difficult to adjust the brush head cross-section simply by changing its size.

[0028] Finally, US patent 8210763 discloses hybrid application elements comprising a body made of elastomer material in which extends a core made of a more rigid plastic material, which may be a molded pin with the rod on which the application element is fixed. The core extends over most of the length of the body of the application element.

[0029] US 7,918,619 discloses an applicator for applying a composition to the skin or lips, comprising a contour loop generally triangular in top view, formed by two flocked branches having a first thickness, extending along a plane and defining an interior space in which extends a membrane having a second thickness less than the first, this membrane being parallel to said plane. Description of the invention

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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, to adapt to the rheology of the product and the desired makeup.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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

[0034] The invention meets all or part of these needs by providing an applicator comprising: - An application element extending along a longitudinal axis, comprising: - At least one support portion, - at least one first structure comprising at least two 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, - at least one second structure comprising at least one branch, this second structure extending at least partially between the two branches of the first structure, - at least one of the branches of the first and second structures bearing a membrane of lesser thickness than that of the branch.

[0035] Such a membrane makes it possible to increase the capacity of the composition to be retained by capillarity by the application organ, without unduly impacting its flexibility, due to the reduced thickness of the membrane.

[0036] The membrane may be of constant or non-constant thickness; the thickness of the membrane is taken, in the case where it is not constant, as being the average thickness of the membrane.

[0037] The branch may be of constant or non-constant thickness; the thickness of the branch is taken, in the case where it is not constant, as being the average thickness of the branch along the portion where it is in contact with the branch.

[0038] Preferably, the application element is produced by injection molding and said membrane extends into a parting line of the mold. "Parting line" is understood to mean the interface between two mold parts which, when the mold is closed, define at least partially a mold cavity used for molding the material. This parting line may be a flat surface or a non-planar surface.

[0039] The fact that the membrane extends into a parting line of the application member facilitates the manufacture of the injection mold used to produce the application member. Indeed, without a membrane, any failure to close the mold at the parting line of a branch leads to a risk of plastic leakage and the creation of a burr on the branch. Here, the presence of the membrane makes the sealing of the mold closure at the branch less critical, since a flow can be provided for the formation of the membrane.

[0040] Said branch may be of thickness ei and the membrane is of thickness e2, with ei / e2 >2, better ei / e2 >3, even better ei / e2 >4.

[0041] Said membrane may be of a thickness less than or equal to 0.5mm, better 0.4mm, even better be of a thickness between 0.1 and 0.3mm, in particular between 0.15 and 0.25mm.

[0042] At least one of the first and second structures may include two branches connecting to the support part and forming a loop, these two branches bearing on at least a part of their periphery said membrane.

[0043] Said membrane can occupy the entire interior space of said loop. In this case, the membrane can be connected at its periphery to the branches forming the loop and to the support part between the branches.

[0044] Alternatively, the membrane occupies only a portion of the internal space of the loop. This allows for one or more openings in the membrane, facilitating the flow of the composition and increasing the flexibility of the application device. It also creates more capillary traps for the composition within the application device. The openings can have various shapes, be arranged in a regular or irregular pattern, in rows or not. The openings can form a grid.

[0045] The first and second structures may include branches whose longitudinal axes are non-coplanar. This gives the application element a three-dimensional configuration capable of storing the composition internally while maintaining the required flexibility. This can also provide a composition retention capacity that eliminates the need for a flocking coating. Thus, the application element can be unflocked, which facilitates its manufacture and recycling.

[0046] The application member may comprise several membranes carried by respective branches or loops, these membranes extending in distinct respective planes. These respective planes may, in particular, be intersecting, notably crossing on the longitudinal axis of the application member.

[0047] At least two membranes can thus intersect, in particular intersecting along the longitudinal axis of the application member. This can provide a certain rigidity against the bending forces experienced by the application member during use, while retaining a radial deformation capacity.

[0048] In exemplary embodiments, the first structure comprises a cage having at least three branches, each connecting at one end to the support portion, and the second structure comprises a cage having at least three branches, each connecting at one end to the support portion, the second structure extending at least partially inside the first, said membrane being supported by at least one of the branches of said cages. Each cage may have four branches, and one of the cages may support two membranes, in particular two membranes perpendicular to each other.

[0049] The application member may, in particular, comprise at least two membranes carried by at least one of said cages, or in particular, comprise at least one membrane carried by each of said cages. Each cage may comprise four arms, and each cage two membranes, in particular two membranes perpendicular to each other.

[0050] In other embodiments, the first structure comprises at least two loops that overlap at least partially, the second structure comprising at least one through branch, extending through at least one of said overlapping loops. The second structure may, in particular, comprise a loop extending along a first plane, and the second structure may comprise at least two overlapping loops extending along planes parallel to a second plane perpendicular to the first.

[0051] The membrane can then be carried by said traversing branch.

[0052] The membrane can also be supported by at least one of said superimposed loops. In this case, the membrane can occupy the entire interior space of the loop, or alternatively have an opening through which the through arm extends. This can allow said through arm to retain greater flexibility, since it then remains free relative to the membrane.

[0053] The application member may also include a first membrane carried by one of said superimposed loops, and a second membrane carried by the traversing arm. These membranes may meet, for example, along the longitudinal axis of the application member.

[0054] Generally speaking, the membrane may be perforated, in particular having several openings. In the case of the examples above, which have at least two loops that are at least partially overlapping and at least one through arm, the membrane carried by the through arm advantageously has openings, which may be in the form of openings with different shapes, for example, circular or in the form of windows with parallel edges. The membrane carried by one of the overlapping loops may also have a perforated membrane.

[0055] As mentioned above, the membrane can occupy the entire interior space of the loop that carries it, and in particular extend between the two opposite arms of this loop, also connecting to the support portion. In some embodiments, the membrane has a free radially inner edge along at least part of its length. The membrane can, in particular, extend along a radial plane, in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the application element.

[0056] In exemplary embodiments, the application member comprises several membranes generally oriented radially inwards, connecting along a portion of their length to a central body of the application member. This central body may be traversed by a channel for supplying the composition.

[0057] In exemplary embodiments, the first structure comprises a loop carrying said membrane, the branches of which connect at one end to the support portion, one or more intermediate structures each comprising a loop whose branches connect to the support portion and meet at the apex of the loop, the second structure comprising branches each connecting at one end to the support section and connected to each other at the other end by an arch, said membrane extending between the distal end of the loop of the first structure and the apex of the loops of the intermediate structures. The membrane thus connects the apex of these intermediate structures to the first structure, which gives it greater rigidity. Application unit

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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 outer diameter of the applicator rod. This shoulder may abut against the rod during the mounting of the application member.

[0061] The mounting tip can be solid.

[0062] 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 makes it possible to act on the rigidity of the application member, as detailed later.

[0063] 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.

[0064] The tip may also have a central opening to receive the core of a twisted-core brush, when the applicator is hybrid, as detailed later.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] The support portion may have bristles when the applicator is intended for applying a composition to keratin fibers such as eyelashes. For example, the spikes are arranged in rows located in line with spikes carried by branches of the first and / or second structures.

[0068] The distal end of the application organ can be defined by the first structure.

[0069] Alternatively, the distal end of the application organ is defined by a distal part that extends between the distal end of the application organ and the first structure.

[0070] Such a distal part may 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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 flocking fibers to the composition and the forces exerted during wringing or use.

[0073] 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.

[0074] The aforementioned distal part can thus carry such application elements, when the applicator is intended for application on keratin fibers such as eyelashes.

[0075] These application elements can be arranged in rows which are for example aligned with rows of pin application elements carried by branches of the first and / or second structures.

[0076] In the presence of a distal portion, the first and second structures can act as a joint, allowing the distal portion to easily change its orientation relative to the axis of the support portion, for example, under pressure exerted during application. By choosing the configuration of the branches of the first and second structures, in particular by having a non-homogeneous distribution of the branches around the longitudinal axis of the application member, it is possible to ensure that the deformability of the first and second structures is Favored around certain pivot axes, this can improve the applicator's behavior when applying the composition by using specific areas of the application organ. Alternatively, the first structure provides the connection between the support and distal parts with at least three branches equidistant angularly around the longitudinal axis of the application organ, ensuring homogeneous connection behavior in all directions.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] Alternatively, the applicator is hybrid, and the application element serves as a support for another element, such as a twisted-core brush. This can provide a compromise between the loading and combing action provided by the brush bristles and the loading and combing action provided by the pins.

[0081] In this case, the loop or cages formed by the first and / or second structures can advantageously help to retain the portion of the brush bearing the bristles, in particular by extending between them.

[0082] 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

[0083] The first structure mentioned above can be formed by a free loop, the two branches joining at the distal end of the application organ, the two ends of the branches opposite the top of the loop being connected to the support part.

[0084] This loop can extend in the axial direction, in particular along a plane, which preferably contains the longitudinal axis of the support part.

[0085] The first structure may also comprise more than two branches, thus forming, for example, a cage, the branches being connected at one end to the support part and joining together at the opposite end, which can define the distal end of the application organ.

[0086] The first structure may have an even number of branches greater than two, for example four or six, two by two diametrically opposed, two opposite branches forming a loop extending preferably in a plane containing the longitudinal axis of the application member.

[0087] 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.

[0088] The first structure may have a length that corresponds to more or less half of the apparent length of the application member.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] The length of this distal part may or may not exceed that of the first structure.

[0092] The distal part may have a straight longitudinal axis aligned with that of the support part.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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".

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] The first structure may comprise several loops parallel to each other. In this case, the loops may decrease in length towards the outside, at least on one side, which can allow for the definition of an application surface that is substantially beveled or dihedral in shape. The presence of closely spaced loops allows for the creation of capillary traps between them, while also providing the capacity to store the composition within the loops.

[0101] With such a configuration of the first structure in particular, the support portion may include a projection extending parallel to the parallel loops, on one side of them. This can provide a more rigid section on the application element, which can be useful, for example, to create an area at the end allowing for precise application of the composition. The loop of the second structure may then have its ends connected, one to the projection, and the other to a rear portion of the support portion from which the parallel loops extend.

[0102] In one embodiment, the first structure comprises several loops arranged symmetrically with respect to a plane of symmetry, parallel to which the loops extend; in this case in particular, at least one of the loops, in particular the longer, can carry a membrane on its inner perimeter, this membrane having an opening through which the loop of the second structure passes.

[0103] Such a membrane can be thinner than the strand of material constituting the loop to which it connects, in particular more than twice as thin, or even more than three or four times thinner, which allows the membrane to retain its flexibility and not to unduly hinder the deformation of the loop.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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

[0106] The second structure can be formed of a single loop, extending for example in a plane containing the longitudinal axis of the application member.

[0107] The second structure may have a single loop that passes through a cage formed by the first structure, or an intermediate cage that itself passes through a loop formed by the first structure. In this case, for example, the loop forming the second structure extends along a plane making a 45° angle with the plane along which the loop forming the first structure extends, and the intermediate cage comprises two loops that extend along planes perpendicular to each other, one of which is positioned at 45° to the plane of the loop forming the second structure.

[0108] The second structure can be formed of a single loop, the first structure also, and the application member can include an intermediate loop passing through the loop forming the first structure, the loop forming the second structure passing through both the loop forming the intermediate structure and that forming the first structure.

[0109] The second structure may have more than two branches, forming, for example, a cage, the branches being joined at one end, in particular four branches, preferably two diametrically opposed. The presence of a cage may provide greater mechanical strength to the branches and the application member.

[0110] These four branches can form two loops joined at the distal end of the cage, extending along two respective planes perpendicular to each other.

[0111] 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.

[0112] The second structure may include a loop having two branches forming, when viewed from the front along the longitudinal axis of the application member, a V.

[0113] Such a shape is advantageously combined with a first structure having at least one outwardly convex arch-shaped branch, the two loop branches of the second structure being located on either side of this outwardly convex arch-shaped branch. This can increase the spacing between the branches on one side of the application member and result in closer-spaced branches on the opposite side, which can be useful for obtaining different application properties with the same application member depending on the face used. In particular, the closer-spaced branches can retain more composition between them by capillary action, and thus have a stronger loading action than the opposite side, where the branches are further apart and less able to retain the composition between them by capillary action.

[0114] When both the first and second structures comprise cages having several branches joined at one end, the two cages are advantageously angularly offset from each other around the longitudinal axis of the application member by an angle equal to 360° / n, where n denotes the total number of branches. Preferably, each cage comprises the same number of branches, in particular four branches.

[0115] Alternatively, when both the first structure and the second structure comprise cages having several branches joined at one end, the cages are not angularly offset from each other, the branches of the innermost cage being each located in the same plane as at least one branch of the outermost cage.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] The second structure may comprise a cage whose branches are twisted around the longitudinal axis of the application member. Such a twisted shape may improve the grip of the eyelashes when the branches bear prongs.

[0119] 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.

[0120] The second structure can be formed by a loop that connects at its ends to a rear portion of the support part, this support part being, for example, generally circular in outline when viewed along the longitudinal axis of the application member, and the other end connects to a generally flattened extension of the support part. Such a form of the second structure combines advantageously with a first structure comprising loops that are generally parallel to each other, and preferably parallel to the extension, and preferably further staggered, as mentioned above.

[0121] The second structure may include a cage whose apex is eccentric with respect to the longitudinal axis of the application member.

[0122] 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.

[0123] The second structure, just like the first, may have studs or other raised features when the application member is intended for the application of a composition to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows. Branches

[0124] The first and second structures include flexible branches that can form loops or cages.

[0125] 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.

[0126] A cage can be formed of at least three branches, preferably an even number of branches, for example 4 or 6.

[0127] 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.

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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.

[0131] A branch can have a cross-sectional area of ​​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 extended length of a branch, between its connection end to the support part and its opposite end, for example the distal end of the loop or cage to which this branch belongs, ranges, for example, from 3 to 60 mm.

[0132] 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.

[0133] The arms may carry, 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, as mentioned previously. 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.

[0134] 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 along 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°. Manufacturing of the application component

[0135] In examples of implementations of the invention, the application member is produced by injection molding of thermoplastic material in a single piece, This reduces manufacturing costs compared to additive manufacturing techniques. It can also facilitate the use of recyclable or recycled plastics. The application component can be molded from a thermoplastic material chosen, for example, from thermoplastic elastomers, SEBS, TPE, including Hytrel® (thermoplastic elastomer copolyester), TPV, PE, including LDPE or HDPE, or others.

[0136] The application member can in particular be made of a relatively flexible material, and the presence of membrane(s) within the application member, when they connect(s) the first and second structures or one of the first and second structures with one or more intermediate structures, makes it possible to increase the rigidity of the application member, or, with comparable rigidity, to use a more flexible thermoplastic material, making it possible to further improve application comfort.

[0137] 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. Brief description of the drawings

[0138] 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, on which:

[0139] [Fig. 1] [Fig. 1] schematically and partially represents an example of a conditioning and application device comprising an applicator according to the invention,

[0140] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] represents in isolation and partially, in perspective, an example of an application device according to the invention,

[0141] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a rear view of the application member of [Fig.2],

[0142] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.2],

[0143] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is a longitudinal section along VV of [Fig.4],

[0144] [Fig. 6] [Fig. 6] is a side view of the application member after rotation around its axis relative to [Fig.4],

[0145] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is a longitudinal section along VILVII of [Fig.6],

[0146] [Fig.8] [Fig.8] is a side view of the application member after rotation around its axis relative to [Fig.6],

[0147] [Fig.9] [Fig.9] is a longitudinal section along IX-IX of [Fig.8],

[0148] [Fig. 10] [Fig. 10] is a cross-section of the application member of [Fig. 2],

[0149] [Fig. 11] [Fig. 11] represents in isolation and partially, in perspective, a variant of the application device according to the invention,

[0150] [Fig.12] [Fig.12] is a rear view of the application member of [Fig.11],

[0151] [Fig. 13] [Fig. 13] is a side view of the application member of [Fig. 11],

[0152] [Fig. 14] [Fig. 14] is a longitudinal section along XIV-XIV of [Fig. 13],

[0153] [Fig. 15] [Fig. 15] is a side view of the application member after rotation around its axis relative to the [Fig. 13],

[0154] [Fig. 16] [Fig. 16] is a longitudinal section along XVI-XVI of [Fig. 15],

[0155] [Fig. 17] [Fig. 17] is a side view of the application member after rotation around its axis relative to the [Fig. 15],

[0156] [Fig.18] [Fig.18] is a longitudinal section along XVIII-XVIII of [Fig.17],

[0157] [Fig. 19] [Fig. 19] is a cross-section of the application member of the [Fig.11]

[0158] [Fig.20] [Fig.20] shows in perspective a variant embodiment of the organ application,

[0159] [Fig.21] [Fig.21] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.20],

[0160] [Fig.22] [Fig.22] is a longitudinal section along XXII-XXII of [Fig.21],

[0161] [Fig.23] [Fig.23] is a front view of the application member of [Fig.20],

[0162] [Fig.24] [Fig.24] is a longitudinal section along XXIV-XXIV of [Fig.23],

[0163] [Fig.25] [Fig.25] represents in perspective a variant of the application element,

[0164] [Fig.26] [Fig.26] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.25],

[0165] [Fig.27] [Fig.27] is a longitudinal section along XXVII-XXVII of [Fig.26],

[0166] [Fig.28] [Fig.28] is a front view of the application member of [Fig.25],

[0167] [Fig.29] [Fig.29] is a longitudinal section along XXIX-XXIX of [Fig.28],

[0168] [Fig.30] [Fig.30] shows in perspective a variant of an application member according to the invention,

[0169] [Fig.31] [Fig.31] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.30],

[0170] [Fig.32] [Fig.32] is a longitudinal section along XXXII-XXXII of [Fig.31],

[0171] [Fig.33] [Fig.33] is a front view of the application member of [Fig.30],

[0172] [Fig.34] [Fig.34] is a longitudinal section along XXXIV-XXXIV of [Fig.33],

[0173] [Fig.35] [Fig.35] shows in perspective a variant of an application element according to the invention,

[0174] [Fig.36] [Fig.36] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.35],

[0175] [Fig.37] [Fig.37] is a longitudinal section along XXXVII-XXXVII of the [Fig.36]

[0176] [Fig.38] [Fig.38] is a front view of the application member of [Fig.35],

[0177] [Fig.39] [Fig.39] is a longitudinal section along XXXIX-XXXIX of [Fig.35],

[0178] [Fig.40] [Fig.40] shows in perspective a variant of the application element according to the invention,

[0179] [Fig.41] [Fig.41] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.40],

[0180] [Fig.42] [Fig.42] is another side view of the application member of [Fig.40],

[0181] [Fig.43] [Fig.43] is a longitudinal section along XLIII-XLIII of [Fig.41],

[0182] [Fig.44] [Fig.44] is a cross-section along XLIV-XLIV of [Fig.42],

[0183] [Fig.45] [Fig.45] is a front view of the application member of [Fig.40],

[0184] [Fig.46] [Fig.46] is a partial perspective view, with cross-section, of the application organ of the [Fig.40].

[0185] [Fig.47] [Fig.47] is a view analogous to [Fig.46] with section in a wider plane near the distal end,

[0186] [Fig.48] [Fig.48] is a view analogous to [Fig.46] with section in a plane even closer to the distal end,

[0187] [Fig.49] [Fig.49] represents in perspective a variant of the application element,

[0188] [Fig.50] [Fig.50] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.49],

[0189] [Fig.51] [Fig.51] is a longitudinal section along LI-LI of [Fig.50],

[0190] [Fig.52] [Fig.52] is a front view of the application member of [Fig.50],

[0191] [Fig.53] [Fig.53] is a longitudinal section along LIII-LIII of [Fig.52],

[0192] [Fig.54] [Fig.54] shows in perspective a variant of the application element according to the invention,

[0193] [Fig.55] [Fig.55] is a front view of the application member of [Fig.54],

[0194] [Fig.56] [Fig.56] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.54],

[0195] [Fig.57] [Fig.57] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.54], observed in a direction perpendicular to that of [Fig.56],

[0196] [Fig.58] [Fig.58] is a longitudinal section along LVIII-LVIII of [Fig.56],

[0197] [Fig.59] [Fig.59] is a longitudinal section in a plane perpendicular to that beyond [Fig.58],

[0198] [Fig.60] [Fig.60] shows in perspective a variant of the application element according to the invention,

[0199] [Fig.61] [Fig.61] is a front view of the application member of [Fig.60],

[0200] [Fig.62] [Fig.62] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.60],

[0201] [Fig.63] [Fig.63] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.60] observed in a direction perpendicular to that of [Fig. 62], and

[0202] [Fig.64] [Fig.64] is a longitudinal section along LXIV-LXIV of [Fig.63]. Detailed description

[0203] 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.

[0204] 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.

[0205] Container 3 can still be made in another way.

[0206] The container 3 may include, as illustrated, a wringing device 6, for example snapped into collar 4.

[0207] 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.

[0208] 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.

[0209] The wringing element 6 can be made of elastomer.

[0210] 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.

[0211] 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.

[0212] The spin-drying unit can still be adjusted, if necessary.

[0213] In the illustrated example, the rod 7 has a circular cross-section, but this does not depart from the scope of the present invention if the rod 7 has a different cross-section, as the cap 5 can then be attached to the container 3 by a means other than screwing, if necessary. The wringing member 6 is adapted to the shape of the rod 7 and, where applicable, to that of the application member 10.

[0214] 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.

[0215] 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.

[0216] 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.

[0217] 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 of material with at least part of the rod 7.

[0218] Figures 2 to 10 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.

[0219] 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.

[0220] 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.

[0221] The opposite branches 30a and 30b extend along a plane P2, containing the X axis.

[0222] The opposing branches 30c and 30d extend along a plane P2', perpendicular to the plan P2, as illustrated in [Fig.2].

[0223] The branches 30a to 30d join at an end 32 which is preferably centered on the X axis.

[0224] As can be seen in particular in [Fig.8], 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.

[0225] 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 in [Fig.8].

[0226] The opposite branches 20a and 20b extend along a PI plane, containing the X axis.

[0227] The opposing branches 20c and 20d extend along a plane PI', perpendicular to the plan PI, as illustrated in [Fig.3].

[0228] 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, as illustrated in [Fig.3].

[0229] 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, providing a free space which allows increased deformation and mobility of both structures 20 and 30 during application.

[0230] The opposite branches 20a and 20b of the second structure 20 form with the support part 12 a loop which carries a membrane 27 on its entire inner perimeter.

[0231] 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.

[0232] 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 (measured perpendicular to their plane) is less than that ei (measured in a direction parallel to e2) 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.

[0233] 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.

[0234] The application member of figures 2 to 10 may carry pins (not shown) or other reliefs for the application of the cosmetic composition to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows, implanted according to various configurations, for example with a row of pins on each of the branches of structures 20 and 30.

[0235] The application member of figures 11 to 19 differs from that of figures 2 to 10 by the presence of two membranes 37 and 38 carried by the structure 30.

[0236] Membrane 37 occupies the space inside the loop formed by branches 30a and 30b, and membrane 38 that formed by branches 30c and 30d.

[0237] Membranes 37 and 38 are flat and perpendicular.

[0238] The thickness of membranes 37 and 38 is preferably, as illustrated, the same as that e2 of membranes 27 and 28.

[0239] All membranes 27, 28, 37 and 38 intersect along the X axis, as seen in [Fig. 19], the set of membranes forming in cross-section, in a plane perpendicular to the X axis, an eight-rayed star.

[0240] 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.

[0241] The application element of Figures 11 to 19 may carry prongs (not shown) for applying the cosmetic composition to implanted eyelashes and / or eyebrows according to various configurations, for example with a row on each of the branches of structures 20 and 30.

[0242] The variant of figures 20 to 24 comprises a central loop 1030 extending along a plane P2, and upper loops 1050 and lower loops 1050' extending along respective planes parallel to the plane P2 and to the longitudinal axis of the application member 10.

[0243] The loop 1030 carries a thin membrane 1035, having a thickness e2 less than that ei of the strand forming the loop, as seen in [Fig. 17].

[0244] The application member 10 also includes a loop 1020 extending along a plane PI perpendicular to the plane P2.

[0245] The loop 1020 has two opposing arched branches 1020a and 1020b, which join via the membrane 1035.

[0246] The loop 1020 carries a thin membrane 1025, the thickness of which is for example the same as that of the membrane 1035. The ratio of the thickness of the strand of material forming the loop 1020 to that of the membrane 1025 is for example the same as for the loop 1030 and the membrane 1035.

[0247] The presence of membranes 1025 and 1035 increases the surface area for capturing the composition by the application element 10. Their thinness prevents the loops from becoming excessively rigid, thus retaining a certain flexibility, and allowing them to deform when passing through the wringing element or when applying the composition to the skin or lips.

[0248] The application member 10 of figures 25 to 29 differs from that of figures 20 to 24 by the presence on the membrane 1025 of openings 1026.

[0249] The arrangement of the openings 1026 can be varied, for example, arranged in two superimposed rows, extending along the longitudinal axis of the application member 10, as seen in [Fig.29].

[0250] The openings 1026 can be of any shape, for example being circular as illustrated.

[0251] The presence of the openings 1026 further improves the retention of the composition on the application organ 10 by capillarity, and can increase the flexibility of the membrane 1025.

[0252] The application member 10 of figures 30 to 34 differs from that of figures 20 to 24 by the presence of openings both in the membrane 1025 carried by the loop 1020 and in the membrane 1035 carried by the loop 1030.

[0253] For the membrane 1025, these openings appear, as seen in particular on [Fig.34], in the form of windows 1027 with parallel edges 1027a, extending between the opposite branches 1020a and 1020b of the loop 1020, these edges 1027a being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the application member 10.

[0254] These openings also appear, for the membrane 1035, in the form of windows 1037 with parallel edges 1037a, extending between the opposite branches 1030a and 1030b of the loop 1030, these edges 1037a being perpendicular to the X axis.

[0255] Windows 1027 and 1037 may have the same width, as illustrated, and occupy the same axial position along the X axis.

[0256] The windows 1027 delimit strips 1029 which extend between branches 1020a and 1020b, and the windows 1037 similarly delimit strips 1039 extending between branches 1030a and 1030b.

[0257] The bands 1029 and 1039 are perpendicular to each other in the illustrated example, and form inside the loops 1020 and 1030 a very open structure, both flexible, capable of retaining the composition by capillarity and allowing good circulation of the composition through the application member when loading the application member with composition and passing through the wringing member.

[0258] The number of bands 1029 present inside the loop 1020 is, for example, between 1 and 20, better 2 and 10, even better 2 and 5, for example 3 or 4 as illustrated in [Fig. 32]. The width of a band 1029 or 1039 ranges, for example, from 0.3 mm to 15 mm, better from 1 mm to 10 mm, even better from 1 to 5 mm.

[0259] At least one window 1037 can be located in front of the loop 1020, as can be seen in [Fig.30], and the branches 1020a and 1020b of the loop 1020 can connect to the strip 1039 adjacent to this window 1037.

[0260] The application member of figures 35 to 39 differs from that of figures 20 to 24 by the absence of the membrane 1025 carried by the loop 1020 and by the presence of an opening 1206 in the membrane 1035, this opening being crossed by the loop 1020.

[0261] Loop 1020 extends along a plane PI which is also a plane of symmetry for the application member 10, and loop 1030 extends along a plane P2 perpendicular to plane PL

[0262] The loops 1050 and 1050' extend along respective planes P6 and P6' parallel to plane P2 and located on either side of it, plane P2 also being a plane of symmetry for the application member 10.

[0263] The loop 1030 is defined by a cord of material of thickness ei measured perpendicular to the plane P2, the flexible membrane 1035 being of thickness e2.

[0264] The opening 1206 can widen forward, as seen in [Fig.30], to allow axial mobility of the loop 1020 during application, until it comes to rest against the rear end 1207 of the opening 1206.

[0265] The opening 1206 also allows some lateral mobility of the loop 1020 when it is away from the end 1207.

[0266] The application members 10 described above with reference to Figures 1 to 39 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.

[0267] Such a provision may be suitable when the composition is to be applied to the skin or lips.

[0268] 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).

[0269] By way of example, figures 41 to 48 show an application member of this type, intended for application to the skin or lips, which has a composition supply channel 371, formed in the center of a central body 373 extending forward the support part 12.

[0270] The application member 10 comprises an inner cage 20 and an outer cage 30, each formed of four branches.

[0271] The application member 10 has symmetry with respect to a median plane M which coincides with the cutting plane of [Fig.43].

[0272] The outer cage 30, viewed from the side, has a curvature that offsets its head, with branches 30a and 30b each having two straight portions joined by a bend 37, as can be seen in [Fig. 42]. The same is true of branch 30d. 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.

[0273] The branches 20a and 20c are further away from the median plane M than are the opposite branches 20b and 20d, located on the side towards which the head of the application member 10 is eccentric, as can be seen in [Fig.42].

[0274] The branches are closer together on the eccentric side, which allows for a larger contact area with the area to be treated.

[0275] The supply channel 371 can receive composition from a dispensing device to which the applicator is associated, and which allows this channel to be supplied with composition, such as a dispensing pen equipped with a composition dispensing mechanism, a compressible wall container, or other.

[0276] The application member 10 includes additional composition-capturing reliefs, 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.

[0277] The membranes 378 are directed radially and provide openings 379 with the central body 373.

[0278] The membranes 377 are also directed radially towards the central body 373 and provide openings 381 with it.

[0279] 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 46 to 48.

[0280] Figures 44 and 48 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.48]) 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.

[0281] 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.46].

[0282] 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.

[0283] The membranes 377 and 378 have a reduced thickness e2 compared to that ei of the material strands 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.

[0284] Openings 379 and 381 ensure the circulation of the composition over almost its entire perimeter.

[0285] 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.

[0286] An example of the implantation of application elements such as pins on an application member, reproducing the configuration of that of the example in Figures 20 to 24, will now be described, with reference to Figures 49 to 53.

[0287] It thus comprises a loop 1020 which extends along a plane PI which is also a plane of symmetry, and a loop 1030 which extends along a plane P2 perpendicular to the plane PL

[0288] Loop 1020 carries pins 68, whose longitudinal axes are contained in plane PL

[0289] Loop 1030 carries pins 65 whose longitudinal axes are contained in plane P2.

[0290] Two other loops 1050 and 1050' extend along respective planes P6 and P6' parallel to plane P2, plane P2 being a plane of symmetry for the application member 10.

[0291] The loop 1050 carries pins 64, each extending obliquely at an angle q with the plane P6, the angle q being for example of the order of 45°.

[0292] Loop 1050' carries pins 66 also making an angle q with plane P6'.

[0293] The rows of pins 68 provided on the opposite branches 1020a and 1020b of the loop 20 start set back from the end 1022, such that the ends of all the pins 68 located on the branch 1020a protrude above the loop 1050, as seen in [Fig.53].

[0294] The application element 10 of figures 54 to 59 is intended for the application of the composition to the skin or lips.

[0295] 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.

[0296] 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 in particular on [Fig.59], 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.

[0297] The loop 30 carries a membrane 321 at the concavity formed at its end 32, and this membrane extends to the apexes 242, 252 of intermediate structures 240 and 250, each having two branches which connect at one end to the portion 12k of the support part 12 and join at the opposite end at their apex.

[0298] The application member 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. 55]. 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. 58].

[0299] 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.

[0300] The vertices 222 are free on the distal side.

[0301] The branches of the different structures 20, 30, 240 and 250 are, for example, arranged angularly at 30° to each other with regard to branches 220a, 240a, 30a, 240b and 220c, as can be seen in [Fig. 55]. The same is true of branches 220b, 250b, 30b, 250a and 220d.

[0302] 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.

[0303] Such an arrangement of the branches allows us to benefit from an application surface all around the X axis.

[0304] The presence of the arch 221 tends to stiffen the loops formed by the branches 220a and 220d on one side, and 220b and 220c on the other.

[0305] The membrane 321 allows both to have an additional surface for capturing the composition, and to stiffen the intermediate structures 240 and 250 by making them fixed, via the membrane 321, to the loop 30.

[0306] Conversely, the loop 30 is stiffened by the intermediate structures 240 and 250 via the membrane 321.

[0307] In the illustrated example, the membrane 321 does not cut the entire section of the intermediate structures 240 and 250 at their respective vertices 242 and 252, but alternatively the membrane 321 cuts the entire section.

[0308] The membrane 321 is preferably of low thickness e2 compared to eb with values ​​of the ratio ei / e2 as defined previously.

[0309] The strands of material constituting the branches of the different structures may or may not have the same cross-section.

[0310] 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.

[0311] The diameter of branches 220a to 220d is for example 0.75mm, that of branches 240a, 240b, 250a and 250b is for example 0.8mm and that of branches 30a and 30b is for example 0.85mm.

[0312] The width of the application member 10 measured perpendicular to the median plane M is for example between 5 and 6 mm, in particular about 5.5 mm, and that measured parallel to the median plane between the radially outermost sides of the arms 30a and 30b is preferably greater, and is for example between 6.5 and 7.5 mm, in particular about 7 mm.

[0313] In the illustrated example, 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.

[0314] The axial dimension of the support part 12 is for example between 2 and 3mm, in particular on the order of 2.5mm.

[0315] 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.

[0316] 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.

[0317] The variant in Figures 60 to 64 differs from the example in Figures 54 to 59 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.64].

[0318] Portion 331 may have a conical shape whose section decreases towards the arch 221. Portion 332 may have a constant section, as illustrated.

[0319] 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.

[0320] Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples just described.

[0321] In particular, the cross-sectional shape of the branches can be modified to facilitate manufacturing by injection molding. Specifically, the branches can be given a substantially triangular shape.

[0322] When produced by injection molding, the application member can be produced in a single piece by single injection, double injection or multi injection.

[0323] 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.

[0324] 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) extending along a longitudinal axis (X), comprising: - At least one support portion (12), - at least one first structure (30; 1030) comprising at least two flexible arms (30a, 30b; 1030a, 1030b) extending at least part of their length away from the longitudinal axis (X), connected at one end to the support portion (12), - at least one second structure (20; 1020) comprising at least one arm, this second structure extending at least partially between the two arms of the first structure, - at least one of the arms of the first and second structures carrying a membrane (27; 28; 37; 38; 377; 378; 1025; 1035) of lesser thickness (e2) than that (ej of the branch.

2. Applicator according to claim 1, wherein said arm is of thickness ei and the membrane is of thickness e2, with ei / e2 >2, better ei / e2 >3, even better ei / e2 >4.

3. Applicator according to any one of claims 1 and 2, the application member (10) being made by injection molding and said membrane extending in a parting plane of the mold.

4. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, said membrane being of a thickness less than or equal to 0.5mm, better 0.4mm, even better being of a thickness between 0.1 and 0.3mm, in particular between 0.15 and 0.25mm.

5. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, at least one of the first and second structures comprising two branches connecting to the support part and forming a loop, these two branches bearing on at least a part of their periphery said membrane.

6. Applicator according to the preceding claim, said membrane occupying the entire interior space of said loop.

7. Applicator according to claim 5, said membrane occupying only a part of the interior space of said loop.

8. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, the first and second structures comprising at least branches whose longitudinal axes are non-coplanar.

9. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising several membranes carried by respective arms or loops, these membranes extending in distinct respective planes.

10. Applicator according to claim 9, comprising at least two intersecting membranes, in particular intersecting along the longitudinal axis (X) of the application member.

11. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, the first structure comprising a cage (30) having at least three branches connecting to the support part and the second structure comprising a cage (20) having at least three branches connecting to the support part, the second structure extending at least partially inside the first, said membrane being carried by at least one of the branches of said cages.

12. Applicator according to the preceding claim, comprising at least two membranes carried by at least one of said cages, in particular comprising at least one membrane (27; 28; 37; 38) carried by each of said cages.

13. Applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the first structure comprising at least two loops superimposed at least partially, the second structure comprising at least one through branch, extending through at least one of said loops.

14. Applicator according to the preceding claim, the membrane (1025) being carried by said through arm.

15. Applicator according to claim 13, the membrane (1035) being carried by at least one (1030) of said loops.

16. Applicator according to claim 15, the membrane (1035) occupying the entire interior space of the loop.

17. Applicator according to claim 15, the membrane having an opening (1026) through which the traversing arm extends.

18. Applicator according to any one of claims 13 to 17, the application member comprising a first membrane (1035) carried by one of said loops and a second membrane (1025) carried by the traversing branch.

19. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, the membrane (1025) being perforated, in particular having several openings.

20. Applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the membrane (377; 378) having over at least a portion of its length a free radially inner edge.

21. Applicator according to the preceding claim, comprising several membranes generally oriented radially inwards, connecting on a portion of their length to a central body of the application member, through which passes a channel (371) for supplying the composition.

22. Applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the first structure comprising a loop carrying said membrane, the arms of which connect to the support part, one or more intermediate structures (240; 250) each comprising a loop whose arms connect to the support part and meet at the apex (242; 252) of the loop, the second structure comprising arms (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), the membrane (321) extending between the distal end (32) of the loop (30) of the first structure and the apex (242; 252) of the loops of the intermediate structures

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