Cosmetic applicator

Abstract

Cosmetic applicator. Applicator (2) comprising: An application element (10) comprising: at least one support portion (12), at least one first structure (30) comprising at least two opposing branches (30a, 30b) connected at one end to the support portion and linked to each other at the opposite end, at least one second structure (20) spanning the gap between said branches of the first structure, at least one internal reinforcing structure connecting a loop of one of the first and second structures to the support portion or connecting to each other at least two distinct locations of one or two branches of one of the first and second structures. 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 to both "dip-in" type conditioning and application devices, i.e. comprising an applicator and a reservoir in 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 wall container, or other. Previous technique

[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 for applying a cosmetic composition, comprising: - An application element extending along a longitudinal axis, comprising: • at least one support portion, • at least one initial structure comprising at least two opposing branches connected at one end to the support part and linked to each other at the opposite end, • at least one second structure spanning the interval between said branches of the first structure, • at least one internal reinforcing structure connecting a loop of one of the first and second structures to the support part or connecting at least two distinct locations of one or two branches of one of the first and second structures, at least one of these locations being situated away from the proximal and distal ends of this or these branches.

[0032] The invention makes it possible to strengthen at least one of the first and second structures, which makes it possible to use a more flexible material to make the application member, and / or to obtain better resistance to radial compression forces when passing through the wringing member, for example.

[0033] In exemplary embodiments, the internal reinforcing structure comprises at least one arch connecting two opposite branches of the first structure between locations distant from their proximal and distal ends. The internal reinforcing structure may, in particular, comprise two arches connecting two identical opposite branches of the first structure between locations distant from their proximal and distal ends, these two arches being connected to each other by a bridge of material distinct from said branches, particularly at their apex. The second structure may comprise a cage spanning a passage at least partially delimited by the branches connected by the arch and the arch itself.

[0034] In exemplary embodiments, the second structure comprises at least one loop formed by two opposing branches, the internal reinforcing structure comprising at least one connection linking a median location of a branch of the loop to the apex of the loop or to the support portion. The internal reinforcing structure may, in particular, comprise at least four connections arranged in a diamond shape, linking two opposing median locations of the loop to its apex and to the support portion.

[0035] In exemplary embodiments, the second structure forms a cage, and the internal reinforcing structure comprises connecting elements radially internal to the arms and linking two locations distant from each arm of the cage of the second structure. The connecting elements may, in particular, include bases extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the application member. The first structure may comprise arms forming a cage, the connecting elements linking at least one arm of the cage of the first structure to at least one adjacent arm of the second structure. The connecting elements may be arranged to abut against each other when the arms are pressed radially inward.

[0036] In exemplary embodiments, the first structure comprises at least one loop connected at its ends to the support part, the second structure comprising at least two loops substantially parallel to that of the first structure, arranged on either side of it, and connected at their apex by an arch, the internal reinforcing structure connecting the apex of said arch to the support part.

[0037] In exemplary embodiments, the first structure comprises at least one loop connected at its ends to the support part, the second structure comprising two loops arranged on either side of the loop of the first structure and connected to each other by an arch passing through the loop of the first structure, the internal reinforcement structure comprising at least one central column connecting said arch to the support part.

[0038] At least one of the first and second structures carrying application elements such as pins.

[0039] The application member may be unflocked.

[0040] The application member can be made by injection molding of a thermoplastic material.

[0041] The second structure, by passing through the gap between the branches of the first structure, allows at least partial occupancy of the space between the branches and thus the formation of capillary traps between the branches and the second structure, between the branches and within the second structure, if the viscosity of the composition allows it.

[0042] A wide variety of application surface configurations can be obtained, suitable for applying makeup to a smooth surface such as skin or lips, or to fibers such as eyelashes, in the presence of raised features such as bristles, carried by the applicator.

[0043] When the application element carries application elements such as bristles or other reliefs and is intended for eyelash and / or eyebrow makeup, the flexibility of the arms facilitates their deformation as they pass through the wiper, which makes it possible on the one hand to constrain the bristles less, and on the other hand to create internal composition movements promoting its renewal, in particular from the inside out.

[0044] The flexibility of the arms provides comfort during application, and their elasticity allows the applicator to retain its shape, facilitating precise makeup application. The proximity between the arms, or between the arms and the second structure, can create capillary traps, as mentioned above, when the viscosity of the composition allows, enabling the absorption of the composition and thus eliminating the need for flocking. This simplifies the manufacture of the applicator and avoids the compatibility and adhesion constraints of flocking in the presence of solvents that may be present in the composition.

[0045] In examples of implementations of the invention, the application element can be produced by injection molding of thermoplastic material in a single piece, which reduces manufacturing costs compared to additive manufacturing techniques. This can also facilitate the use of recyclable plastics or plastics derived from recycled materials.

[0046] The application member can be molded from a thermoplastic material chosen, for example, from thermoplastic elastomers, SEBS, TPE, Hytrel® (thermoplastic elastomer copolyester), TPV, PE, LDPE, HDPE, ...

[0047] The application member can be molded from a thermoplastic material having a Shore hardness ranging from 30 Shore A to 72 Shore D.

[0048] The application element is preferably made by injection molding of thermoplastic material, but it can be made by other means when its shape does not allow it, in which case it may be made, for example, by an additive manufacturing technique. Application element

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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 rather reserved for an application device intended for application on the skin or lips, or hair.

[0051] The application member may include a mounting tip for an applicator rod; this tip may have a circular cross-section, with a diameter that is constant or decreases 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.

[0052] The mounting tip can be filled.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] The tip may also have a central opening to receive the core of a twisted-core brush, when the applicator is hybrid.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] The distal end of the application organ can be defined by the first structure.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] The aforementioned distal part can thus carry such application elements, when the applicator is intended for application on keratin fibers such as eyelashes.

[0066] The length of the distal part can then correspond to more than a quarter of the apparent length of the application organ.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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, particularly by having a non-homogeneous distribution of the branches around the longitudinal axis of the application member, it is possible to enhance the deformability of the first and second structures around certain pivot axes. This can improve the applicator's behavior when applying the composition using specific areas of the application member.Alternatively, the first structure provides the connection between the supporting and distal parts with at least three branches equidistant angularly around the longitudinal axis of the application organ, which ensures homogeneous behavior of the connection in all directions.

[0069] The first and second structures may include branches that connect to the support part along a corresponding radial plane, making a angle with the longitudinal axis of the application element, this angle ranging for example from 0 to 90°, preferably between 0 and 60°. Such a preferential orientation of the branches can facilitate the passage through the wringer.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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

[0075] 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.

[0076] This loop can extend in the axial direction, in particular along a plane, which preferably contains the longitudinal axis of the support part.

[0077] The first structure may also have more than two branches, thus forming for example a cage, the branches being connected at one end to the support part and joining each other at the opposite end, which may define the distal end of the application organ.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] The first structure may have a length that corresponds to more or less half of the apparent length of the application member.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] The length of this distal portion may or may not exceed that of the first structure.

[0084] The distal portion may have a straight longitudinal axis aligned with that of the support portion.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] As mentioned previously, 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 can be the case when passing through the wringer. This allows for a stronger scraping of the surface of the application member by the wringer.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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".

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] The first structure may comprise 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 longest one, may carry a membrane on its inner periphery, this membrane having an opening through which the loop of the second structure passes.

[0094] 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.

[0095] The first structure may include 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

[0096] The second structure can be formed of a single loop, extending for example in a plane containing the longitudinal axis of the application member.

[0097] 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, we have, for example, the loop forming the second structure which extends along a plane making an angle of 45° with that along which the loop forming the first structure extends, and the intermediate cage has two loops which extend along planes perpendicular to each other and one of which is at 45° to the plane of the loop forming the second structure.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] These four branches can form two loops joined at the distal end of the cage, extending along two respective planes perpendicular to each other.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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 one another, the branches of the innermost cage being each located in the same plane as at least one branch of the outermost cage.

[0104] The second structure may include, as mentioned above, 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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. Additional structure

[0107] The application member may include an additional structure, distinct from the first and second structures.

[0108] This additional structure may include at least one loop, connecting at its ends to the support part, and extending or not 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.

[0109] The presence of this additional structure creates an extra surface area for capturing the composition and can carry application elements such as bristles, when the application device is intended for eyelash and / or eyebrow makeup. The additional structure may, where appropriate, be formed by a cage whose arms connect at one end to the support portion and meet at the other end at the apex of the cage, which may be positioned axially between the distal end of the first structure and the distal end 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 are at an angle of 45° to each other.

[0110] 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

[0111] The first and second structures include flexible branches that can form loops or cages.

[0112] 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.

[0113] A cage can be formed of at least three branches, preferably an even number of branches, for example 4 or 6.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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.

[0117] Preferably, two opposite branches of the same structure have, on the same side and 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 removal of the molds used for shaping the application member.

[0118] A branch can have a cross-sectional area of ​​between 0.01 and 20 mm², or more 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.

[0119] The application member can be inscribed in section in a circle with a diameter ranging from 4 to 12 mm for an applicator intended for application on eyelashes or eyebrows, and a circle ranging from 4 to 17 mm for an applicator intended for application on lips.

[0120] 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. 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.

[0121] 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

[0122] The invention also relates to a conditioning and application device comprising: - An applicator according to the invention, • a container containing the composition to be applied, including a wringer through which the application device passes when it is extracted from the container, or • a container on which the applicator is mounted, directly supplying the application device with the composition.

[0123] The orifice defined by the wringer, in particular its diameter, can be dimensioned in such a way that the first and / or second structures deform when 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).

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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

[0126] The invention further relates 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.

[0127] 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

[0128] 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:

[0129] [Fig-1] [Fig. 1] schematically and partially represents an example of a conditioning and application device comprising an applicator according to the invention,

[0130] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a partial perspective view of an example of an application element,

[0131] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a front view of the application member of [Fig.2],

[0132] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.2],

[0133] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is a longitudinal section along VV of [Fig.4],

[0134] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is another side view of the application member of [Fig.2],

[0135] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is another longitudinal section of the application member,

[0136] [Fig.8] [Fig.8] is another side view of the application member,

[0137] [Fig.9] [Fig.9] is a longitudinal section of the application member along IX-IX of the [Fig.8],

[0138] [Fig. 10] [Fig. 10] represents, in partial perspective, another variant of the application element,

[0139] [Fig. 11] [Fig. 11] is a front view of the application member of [Fig. 10],

[0140] [Fig. 12] [Fig. 12] is a side view of the application member of [Fig. 49],

[0141] [Fig. 13] [Fig. 13] is a longitudinal section along XIII-XIII of [Fig. 12],

[0142] [Fig. 14] [Fig. 14] is another longitudinal section,

[0143] [Fig. 15] [Fig. 15] is another side view of the application member,

[0144] [Fig. 16] [Fig. 16] is a longitudinal section along XVILXVI of [Fig. 15],

[0145] [Fig.17] [Fig.17] is another side view of the application member of [Fig.10],

[0146] [Fig.18] [Fig.18] is a longitudinal section along XVII-XVIII of [Fig.17],

[0147] [Fig. 19] [Fig. 19] represents, in perspective, a partial, variant of an application element,

[0148] [Fig.20] [Fig.20] is a rear view of the application member of [Fig.19],

[0149] [Fig.21] [Fig.21] is a side view of the application member of [Fig. 19],

[0150] [Fig.22] [Fig.22] is a longitudinal section along XXILXXII of [Fig.21],

[0151] [Fig. 23] [Fig. 23] is a side view of the application member of [Fig. 19] after rotation of the applying element around its axis,

[0152] [Fig.24] [Fig.24] is a longitudinal section along XXIV-XXIV of [Fig.23],

[0153] [Fig.25] [Fig.25] shows in perspective, partial, a variant embodiment of the implementing body,

[0154] [Fig.26] [Fig.26] is a rear view of the application member of [Fig.25],

[0155] [Fig.27] [Fig.27] is a side view of the application member,

[0156] [Fig.28] [Fig.28] is a longitudinal section along XXVIII-XVIII of [Fig.27],

[0157] [Fig. 29] [Fig. 29] is a side view of the application member after rotation around its longitudinal axis,

[0158] [Fig.30] [Fig.30] is a longitudinal section along XXX-XXX of [Fig.29],

[0159] [Fig.31] [Fig.31] is a partial perspective view with cross-section of the application organ of the [Fig.25],

[0160] [Fig.32] [Fig.32] is a view similar to [Fig.31] from another angle,

[0161] [Fig.33] [Fig.33] represents, in partial perspective, a variant of the application element,

[0162] [Fig.34] [Fig.34] is a rear view of the application member of [Fig.33],

[0163] [Fig.35] [Fig.35] is a longitudinal section of the application member of the [Fig.33],

[0164] [Fig.36] [Fig.36] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.33],

[0165] [Fig.37] [Fig.37] is a longitudinal section along XXXVII-XXXVII of the [Fig.36]

[0166] [Fig.38] [Fig.38] represents in perspective a variant of the application element,

[0167] [Fig.39] [Fig.39] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.38],

[0168] [Fig.40] [Fig.40] is a longitudinal section along LX-LX of [Fig.39],

[0169] [Fig.41] [Fig.41] is a cross-section of the application member of [Fig.39] in a section plane containing the longitudinal axis and perpendicular to that of [Fig.40],

[0170] [Fig.42] [Fig.42] represents in perspective a variant of the application element,

[0171] [Fig.43] [Fig.43] is a front view of the application member of [Fig.42],

[0172] [Fig.44] [Fig.44] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.42],

[0173] [Fig.45] [Fig.45] is a side view of the application member of [Fig.42], in an observation direction perpendicular to that of [Fig.44],

[0174] [Fig.46] [Fig.46] is a longitudinal section along XLVI-XLVI of [Fig.45],

[0175] [Fig.47] [Fig.47] represents in perspective a variant of the application element,

[0176] [Fig.48] [Fig.48] is a longitudinal side section of the application member the [Fig. 47], and

[0177] [Fig.49] [Fig.48] is a longitudinal side section of the application member of the [Fig.47], in a cutting plane perpendicular to that of the [Fig.48].

[0178] 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.

[0179] 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.

[0180] Container 3 can still be made in another way.

[0181] The container 3 may include, as illustrated, a wringing device 6, for example snapped into collar 4.

[0182] 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.

[0183] 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.

[0184] The wringing element 6 can be made of elastomer.

[0185] 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.

[0186] The wringing member 6 may optionally include undulations, allowing the wringing orifice 6a to widen more easily when the application member 10 passes through it.

[0187] The spin-drying unit can still be adjusted, if necessary.

[0188] 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 method 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.

[0189] 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.

[0190] 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.

[0191] 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.

[0192] 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.

[0193] 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 lack these 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.

[0194] Figures 2 to 9 partially represent an example of an application member 10 with longitudinal axis X, made 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.

[0195] The tip 11 extends towards the distal end of the application member 10 by means of a central part 12, forming a shoulder 13.

[0196] The application member 10 has support parts 12 and distal part 15 connected by four branches 30a, 30b, 30c and 30d, of an arched shape convex outwards. The branches 30a and 30b are diametrically opposed and form with the distal part 15 a first loop extending along a plane P2, and the 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.3].

[0197] The application member 10 also includes, in this example, a 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.

[0198] 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 in [Fig.5].

[0199] The application member 10 may include two internal loops 80 and 84 each extending in the plane P2', the loop 84 connecting to the support part 12 and the loop 80 to the distal part 15, as seen in particular in [Fig.7].

[0200] The two loops 84 and 80 are connected at their vertices by a material bridge 81 extending along the longitudinal axis X.

[0201] The application organ of figures 2 to 9 is provided with pins on the distal part 15 and / or the branches 30a to 30d. By way of illustration, some of these pins 61 extending on the branch 30a are schematically represented in dashed lines on [Fig.5].

[0202] The application member shown in figures 10 to 18 differs from that of figures 2 to 9 by the shape of the arms 20a, 20b, 20c and 20d of the cage 20.

[0203] Whereas in the example of Figures 2 to 9 the branches are generally in the shape of an arch concave towards the X axis, in the example of Figures 10 to 18 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.

[0204] The application member of figures 10 to 18 is advantageously provided with pins (not shown) on the branches 30a to 30d, the branches 20a to 20d, and optionally on the distal part 15 and / or the support part 12. The hollow formed by the portions 429 allows for longer pins on them, which are more flexible, and allows for the accumulation of more composition at their level.

[0205] The variant of the application element 10 shown in figures 19 to 24 comprises inner cages 20 and outer cages 30.

[0206] The inner cage 20 has a larger outer diameter close to that of the outer cage 30, as can be seen in [Fig.20].

[0207] 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.

[0208] 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.

[0209] The application member of figures 19 to 24 has pins (not shown) on cages 20 and 30.

[0210] Figures 25 to 32 show another variant with inner cage 20 and outer cage 30 which includes four stops 110 each connecting a branch of the inner cage and an adjacent branch of the outer cage 30.

[0211] Each stop 110 has in cross-section a base 111 of general triangular shape, as seen in [Fig.31] in particular, this base 111 connecting at its longitudinal ends to the corresponding branches by radial uprights 112.

[0212] The length N of each stop 110 is for example between and / 2 of the apparent length L of the application member 10.

[0213] 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.

[0214] We see on [Fig.31] 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.

[0215] We also see that two opposite branches can have parallel segments 31a in section, and the same for segments 31b.

[0216] The application member of figures 25 to 32 has pins (not shown) on cages 20 and 30.

[0217] The embodiment shown in Figures 33 to 37 differs from that shown in Figures 19 to 24 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 to eyelashes and / or eyebrows and the combing of these.

[0218] The application member shown in figures 38 to 41 is intended for application to the skin or lips, and comprises several loops 421, 431, 30, 432 and 422, extending along respective planes parallel to each other.

[0219] The planes of loops 421 and 431 are symmetric to the planes of loops 422 and 432 with respect to the plane P2 of loop 30, which is a median plane of symmetry for the application member.

[0220] Loop 30 is longer than the other loops, and loops 431 and 432 have an intermediate length between that of loop 30 and those of loops 421 and 422 furthest from loop 30.

[0221] The free ends of loops 421, 431, 30, 432 and 422 can tangent to lines making an acute angle with each other and whose intersection coincides substantially with the end of loop 30.

[0222] The application member comprises an arch 420, concave towards the free end 32 of the loop 30, extending along a plane PI perpendicular to the plane of the loop 30.

[0223] This arch 420 connects at its ends to the ends 621 and 622 of the loops 421 and 422, and the assembly formed by one of the branches 421a or 421b of the loop 421, the arch 420 and one of the branches 422a or 422b of the loop 422, constitutes a loop which crosses the plane P2 of the loop 30, between its branches 30a and 30b.

[0224] The application member 10 comprises an additional loop 440 having two opposing branches 441 and 442 connecting at one end to the support part 12 and joining at the other end 443 at the arch 420, the end 443 also constituting the apex of the loop 440.

[0225] The arch 420 and the loop 440 form a general X-shaped structure, connecting the ends 621 and 622 of the loops 421 and 422 on the one hand and the support portion 12 on the other, thus contributing to reducing the flexibility of the loops 421 and 422, while increasing the surface area for capturing the composition and the number of capillary traps. The presence of the loop 440, whose branches 441 and 442 can be located substantially at the same level as the ends 621 and 622, as illustrated, allows for a larger application surface at the upper and lower faces of the application member, the contour of which is delimited by the loops 421 and 422, respectively.

[0226] The apex 443 can be located at a distance / from the distal end of the application member 10, this distance f being for example between 1 / 4 and 2 / 3 of the apparent length L of the application member, measured between its distal end and the shoulder 13.

[0227] The application element 10 of figures 42 to 46 is intended for the application of the composition to the skin or lips.

[0228] 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.

[0229] 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.46], 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.

[0230] The application member also includes a structure 20 in the form of a cage with four branches 220a, 220b, 220c and 220d connecting at one end to the portion 12k of the support part 12. Branches 220a and 220d form a loop on one side of the median plane of symmetry M, as can be seen in [Fig. 43]. The same is true of branches 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. 45].

[0231] 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.

[0232] The vertices 222 are free on the distal side.

[0233] The application member 10 also includes intermediate structures 240 and 250 situated on either side of a median plane of symmetry perpendicular to plane M. Structure 240 has branches 240a and 240b that connect to the distal portion 12j of the support part 12 and meet at the apex 242 of the loop. The same is true of branches 250a and 250b of the intermediate structure 250.

[0234] 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. 43]. The same is true of branches 220b, 250b, 30b, 250a and 220d.

[0235] 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.

[0236] Such an arrangement of the branches allows us to benefit from an application surface all around the X axis.

[0237] 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.

[0238] 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 intermediate structures 240 and 250.

[0239] 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.

[0240] Conversely, the loop 30 is stiffened by the intermediate structures 240 and 250 via the membrane 321.

[0241] 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.

[0242] The membrane 321 is preferably of small thickness e2 compared to the thickness eide of the loop 30, with values ​​of the ratio ei / e2 as defined previously, in particular ei / e2>2.

[0243] The application organ comprises 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.46].

[0244] Portion 331 may have a conical shape whose section decreases towards the arch 221. Portion 332 may have a constant section, as illustrated.

[0245] The presence of the central column 330 makes it possible to further stiffen the application member 10, and to benefit from an additional surface area for capturing the composition. It can also facilitate the flow of thermoplastic material during the injection molding of the application component.

[0246] The strands of material constituting the branches of the different structures in the example of figures 42 to 46 may or may not have the same cross-section.

[0247] 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.

[0248] 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.

[0249] 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.

[0250] For example, we have an apparent length L of the application member between 10 and 20mm, in particular between 13 and 17mm, for example approximately 14.5mm.

[0251] The axial dimension of the support part 12 is for example between 2 and 3mm, in particular on the order of 2.5mm.

[0252] 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.

[0253] 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.

[0254] Figures 47 to 49 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.

[0255] 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.

[0256] Part 12 serves as a support for a set of flexible loops 1030, 1040, 1050, 1040' and 1050', extending along parallel planes. The interior spaces of the loops overlap at least partially in top view.

[0257] Each loop can be formed by a strand of material of substantially constant cross-section, connecting at its ends to the support portion 12. The ends of loop 1030 can connect to the periphery of the support portion 12, those of loops 1050 and 1050' at diametrically opposite locations on the surface radially outside of the support part 12, and those of the loops 1040 and 1040' on a front face of the support part 12, perpendicular to the X axis.

[0258] Other locations of the loop connection ends on the support part 12 are possible.

[0259] The application member 10 in this example has axial symmetry with respect to the longitudinal axis X.

[0260] Loop 1030, the most central, is the longest, its distal end being located at a distance L from shoulder 13, as seen in [Fig.48].

[0261] Loops 1050 and 1050' furthest from the central loop 1030, are the shortest.

[0262] Loops 1040 and 1040' are located respectively between loop 1030 and loops 1050 and 1050'.

[0263] Each loop preferably has an oblong shape, with a length greater than its greatest width.

[0264] For example, we have L / W, where L denotes the apparent length of the application member 10, measured from the shoulder 13, and W the greatest width of the application member 10, which in the example considered corresponds to the greatest width of the central loop 1030, greater than or equal to 1.2, better 1.5, even better 2 or 3

[0265] W is preferably greater than or equal to the diameter of the rod 7, therefore to that of the orifice of the lip of the wringing element 6. For example, W is between 4 and 10mm.

[0266] For example, we have L between 10 and 30mm.

[0267] Preferably, the loops located on the same side as the central loop 1030 have a greater width that decreases outwards, as illustrated in [Fig. 47]. This decrease can be linear, such that the points of greatest width lie on the same straight line. This can facilitate contact between all the loops located on the same side of the central loop and a flat surface to be treated.

[0268] An arch 1420 connects loops 1050 and 1050' through loops 1040, 1030 and 1040', as seen more particularly in [Fig.49].

[0269] The arch 1420 can extend in a plane PI perpendicular to the plane parallel to which the loop 1030 extends, have a concave shape towards the distal end of the application member 10, and connect at its ends to the junction of the branches 1050a and 1050b of the loop 1050 on the one hand, and to the junction of the branches 1050a' and 1050b' of the loop 1050' on the other hand.

[0270] The arch 1420 can be formed by a strand of material of the same shape and section as that of the loops 1050 and 1050', or alternatively by a strand of material of different shape or section.

[0271] The arch 1420 can be symmetrical with respect to the plane of the loop 1030, which is thus a plane of symmetry for the application member in the example considered.

[0272] The presence of the arch 1420 increases the rigidity of the application member 10 in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the loop 1030, thereby reducing the flexibility of the distal end of the loops 1050 and 1050', and improving the retention of the composition by the formation of additional capillary traps between the arch 1420 and the loops 1040, 1030, and 1040' that it passes through. The greater flexural rigidity in the PI plane can be advantageous for limiting the crushing of the loops 1050 or 1050' during application, which can facilitate the transfer of the composition onto the skin or lips, while maintaining good flexibility in the P2 plane, which facilitates passage through the wringing member 6 and the renewal of the composition within the application member 10.

[0273] An additional loop 1440 extends along the median plane of symmetry (perpendicular to the plane of [Fig.48]), comprising two branches 1440a and 1440b connecting at one end to the support part 12, and at the other end to the apex 1422 of the arch 1420, as seen in particular on [Fig.48].

[0274] The apex 1422 can be located at a distance / from the distal end of the application member 10, this distance f being for example between 1 / 4 and 2 / 3 of the apparent length L of the application member, measured between its distal end and the shoulder 13.

[0275] We see on [Fig.49] that the branch 1440a can have a straight portion 1440b coming to tangent the plane resting on the upper edge of the loop 1050, so that the loop 1440 does not protrude out of the loop 1050 outside the application member 10.

[0276] The application member 10 comprises two arches 1070a and 1070b connecting respectively the vertices of loops 1050 and 1050' to the vertex 1032 of loop 1030.

[0277] Arches 1070a and 1070b extend along the same plane as arches 1140 and 1440, and may exhibit substantially the same curvature as the portions of branches 1030a and 1030b which connect to the apex 1032 of loop 1030.

[0278] The loop 1040 may have opposite branches 1040a and 1040b which have near their distal end respective bends 1042a and 1042b, substantially at 90°, extended by straight segments 1043a and 1043b, directed inwards and backwards, which join at the junction of branches 1040a and 1040b.

[0279] The same applies to branch 1040', which is symmetrical to branch 1040 with respect to the median plane along which loop 1030 extends and which corresponds to the cutting plane of [Fig.48].

[0280] The presence of the arches 1070a and 1070b further stiffens the application member in a direction perpendicular to the plane of [Fig. 48], enabling it to better resist a force tending to pull the loops 1050 and 1050' together, exerted during application. Moreover, this further improves the capture of the composition by the application member and allows the tip of the application member to be used for precise application.

[0281] Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples just described.

[0282] 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.

[0283] When produced by injection molding, the application member can be made in one piece by single injection, double injection or multi injection.

[0284] 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.

[0285] The expression "comprising one" should be understood as synonymous with "comprising at least one", unless otherwise specified.

Claims

Demands

1. Applicator (2) for applying a cosmetic composition (P), comprising: - An application member (10) extending along a longitudinal axis (X), comprising: • at least one support portion (12), • at least one first structure (30) comprising at least two opposing branches (30a, 30b) connected at one end to the support portion and linked to each other at the opposite end, • at least one second structure (20) passing through the gap between said branches of the first structure, • at least one internal reinforcing structure (80, 81, 84; 100c, 100d, 101c, 110; 111; 1440; 330) connecting a loop of one of the first and second structures to the support portion or connecting to each other at least two distinct locations of one or two branches of one of the first and second structures, at least one of these locations being situated at a distance from the proximal and distal ends of this branch or these branches.

2. Applicator according to claim 1, the internal reinforcement structure comprising at least one arch (80, 84) connecting two opposite branches of the first structure between locations distant from their proximal and distal ends.

3. Applicator according to the preceding claim, the internal reinforcement structure comprising two arches (80, 84) connecting two identical opposite branches of the first structure between locations distant from their proximal and distal ends, these two arches being connected to each other by a bridge of material (81) distinct from said branches (30c, 30d), in particular at their apex.

4. Applicator according to the preceding claim, the second structure comprising a cage (20) passing through a passage at least partially delimited by the branches (30c, 30d) connected by the arch (80) and the latter.

5. Applicator according to claim 1, the second structure comprising at least one loop formed by two opposing branches, the internal reinforcement structure comprising at least one (100c; lOOd) linking a median location of a branch of the loop to the top of the loop or to the support part.

6. Applicator according to the preceding claim, the internal reinforcement structure comprising at least four links (100c, lOOd, 101c, lOld) arranged in a diamond shape, connecting two opposite median locations of the loop to the top thereof and to the support part.

7. Applicator according to claim 1, the second structure (20) forming a cage, the internal reinforcing structure comprising connecting elements (111) radially internal to the branches and connecting two locations distant from each branch of the cage of the second structure.

8. Applicator according to claim 7, the connecting elements comprising bases (110) extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the application member.

9. Applicator according to any one of claims 6 and 7, the first structure comprising branches forming a cage, the connecting elements (111) linking at least one branch of the cage of the first structure to at least one adjacent branch of the second structure.

10. Applicator according to any one of claims 7 to 9, the connecting elements (111) being arranged to butt against each other when the arms are pressed radially inwards.

11. Applicator according to claim 1, the first structure comprising at least one loop (1030) connected at its ends to the support part (12), the second structure comprising at least two loops (1050, 1050') substantially parallel to that (1030) of the first structure, arranged on either side of it, and connected at their top by an arch (1420), the internal reinforcing structure (1440) connecting the top of said arch to the support part (12).

12. Applicator according to claim 1, the first structure comprising at least one loop (30) connected at its ends to the support portion, the second structure comprising two loops (220a, 220d; 220b, 220c) arranged on either side of the loop of the first structure and connected to each other by an arch (221) passing through the loop (30) of the first structure, the internal structure

13.

14.

15.

16. reinforcement comprising at least one central column (330) connecting said arch (221) to the support part. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, at least one of the first and second structures carrying application elements (61) such as pins. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, the application member (10) being non-flocked. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, the application member (10) being made by injection molding of a thermoplastic material. Conditioning and application device, comprising: - A container (3) containing a cosmetic composition to be applied to human keratinous materials, - An applicator (2) according to any one of the preceding claims.

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