Portable device for replaceable capsules containing solid cosmetic products, capsules and uses thereof

Abstract

The present invention relates to a portable device (1) for receiving a replaceable capsule (2) containing a solid cosmetic or fragrance product, said device (1) comprising a receptacle (3) having a recess (4) complementarily shaped and sized to receive said capsule (2), said device (1) comprising a system (7) for opening and closing said recess (4), said system being provided with means for holding said capsule (2), said means being provided removably and in the form of snap fastening means (5), preferably in the form of a groove (6), shaped to engage with a complementary snap fastening means (26) provided with said capsule (2), preferably in the form of a ball catch. The present invention also relates to capsules (2) containing a solid cosmetic or fragrance product and to the use of said device (1) provided with capsules (2) for skin care, make-up and fragrance applications depending on the corresponding product contained inside said capsules (2).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the fields of cosmetics, fragrances, and body care and beauty products.

[0002] The present invention relates to a portable device having an opening and closing system and intended to receive a replaceable capsule containing a solid product, in particular a solid cosmetic product or a solid fragrance, and which capsule contains a solid product, in particular a solid cosmetic product or a solid fragrance, and which capsule can be positioned and held in a predetermined position within the device having the opening and closing system according to the invention.

[0003] Within the meaning of the present invention, the terms "solid product", "solid composition" or "solid substance" are synonymous and include any type of cosmetic product in solid form, in particular balms or compact powders, as well as any type of perfume product in solid form, most particularly solid perfumes, but also any form of solid deodorant, in particular as compact balms, as well as any type of body care product for external use, for the skin, such as solid soaps, or for the hair, such as solid shampoos, and also for the beard, such as balms, as well as any type of beauty product for aesthetic use, such as compact makeup powders or solid makeup removers.

[0004] Such solid beauty or fragrance products, or body care products, may preferably, but not exclusively, be applied topically, essentially in contact with the skin and hair. [Background technology]

[0005] The existence of solid products in cosmetics and perfumes, such as perfume in solid form, has been known for many years.However, due to the lack of practicality of using solid perfume, the fragrance in liquid form, specifically in vaporized or atomized form such as deodorant, or in gas form that is dispersed by aerosol, has appeared and become popular, but today solid perfume is no longer part of the common habits of consumers.

[0006] However, with recent relaunches, many brands offer solid fragrances, but generally in the form of boxes provided with removable covers, basic containers of low value quality, sometimes produced and developed especially in the luxury sector.

[0007] Several devices have been introduced to attempt to alleviate the lack of practicality in using solid fragrances, however, certain technical problems remain that limit the use and widespread adoption of solid fragrances.

[0008] Most of the devices used to address the lack of practicality in using solid fragrances have valves or sliding systems whose opening and closing are actuated by the user's hand.

[0009] WO 2010 / 85500 discloses a portable device of generally tubular or cuboidal shape with rounded edges, intended to contain, inter alia, two cosmetic substances, especially in solid form, in two different receptacles, one for use and the other for refilling after all have been used. The device is thus provided to be reusable, allowing one of the two receptacles to be refilled by the other refill receptacle, the two receptacles being independent of each other. Additionally, the two receptacles abut against each other by being removably attached to each other.

[0010] French Patent No. 3083449 discloses a portable device in the form of a housing intended to contain several aromatic solid compositions intended to perfume human keratinous material, such as the skin. Such a device comprises a body provided with a recess shaped to receive a removable element incorporating one or more compositions. In addition, the device comprises a system for opening and closing a valve, in particular in the form of a cover articulated via a hinge.

[0011] US Patent No. 10,925,374 also discloses a portable device intended to receive a replaceable capsule containing a beauty product, the device comprising a receptacle having a recess complementarily shaped and dimensioned to receive the removable capsule, the device comprising a system for opening and closing the valve recess.

[0012] Also known is U.S. Pat. No. 7,014,045, which describes a cosmetic housing comprising a base element and a pair of covers having a first cover and a second cover, the first cover and the second cover being pivotally connected to the base element.

[0013] As an example of a known device containing solid fragrances, mention may also be made of the "EAU CAPITALE" collection by the company "DIPTYQUE", which implements a container with a recess for receiving the solid fragrance. This device is equipped with a system for opening and closing by means of a valve, in the same way as a compact. The device is closed by a magnetic system. A removable fastener, in particular with a magnet, is used to hold the refill in place at the bottom of the recess of the case.

[0014] Other devices implemented by ALWIS AND XAVIER ENTERPRISE® under the name "STAG SOLID COLOGNE®" and by JUNIPER RIDGE® under the name "SOLID PERFUME" are in the form of a metal tray with a removable cover that is disposable and is intended to directly contain the solid fragrance material. Once the product is consumed, the consumer must remove the empty tray and purchase a new one.

[0015] The device developed by "Le LABO®" under the name "SOLID PERFUME" is in the form of a cylindrical container, divided into a first part with a recess intended to contain a capsule of solid aromatic substance, and a second part forming a pivotally mounted cover, the closure system of which is provided with a magnetic fastener. The capsule is held in the device by a magnet placed at the bottom of the recess.

[0016] Also known is the "HAVANA TOBACCO FRAGRANCE SOLID COLOGNE®" device developed by "SUAVECITO®", which takes the form of a box intended to contain solid aromatic substances. An opening and closing system corresponds to a pivoting system to ensure the rotation of the cover relative to the rest of the box. The capsules are also held in the device by magnets placed at the bottom of the recess that houses the solid flavor capsules.

[0017] Briefly, existing devices, when compact for their portability, require two hands to open, as offsetting the cover relative to the rest of the housing ensures opening by pivoting or rotating. Additionally, holding the capsule in the recess of known devices is often unstable with a single magnet, and shocks during transport of the device, especially in a bag, and even in a pocket for compact devices, can dislodge the capsule. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0018] Considering the above, the problem that the present invention aims to solve is to develop a portable device capable of improving the use of cosmetic, and in particular perfume, solid compositions by means of a method of perfuming oneself that combines technology, creativity, style and quality.

[0019] The aim is to create a small and extremely lightweight object that offers strength and longevity with minimal weight, but is functional, i.e. fulfills all the use functions of the product it contains, be it a cosmetic or a fragrance. In addition, the invention envisages providing a range of fragrances that are not only easy to use in daily life, but also portable, using a portable and compact device that provides fast and reliable positioning of the solid perfume container.

[0020] To do this, the present invention is directed to a portable device with a system for simultaneously opening and closing both sides with a single motion, the portable device being intended to receive replaceable capsules containing solid products such as solid cosmetics and solid fragrances.

[0021] Additionally, the portable device according to the present invention is equipped with an improved opening and closing system and incorporates all the functions and features of a device that houses capsules provided to be replaceable, whilst protecting compositions such as fragrances and their natural ingredients that are sensitive to external elements such as air and dust.

[0022] The device according to the invention solves the problem of the everyday use of solid, i.e. non-flowable compositions through a compact device, while making it possible to renew one's own perfuming habits and thus create new attitudes and new ways of life.

[0023] The portable device according to the invention provides anyone with easy use of "their" fragrance in any everyday life situation, with a compact device that the user can carry with them. The invention allows one to carry one or more cosmetic and / or fragrance compositions without any associated risks or constraints, especially safety constraints associated with air transport, especially for liquid or aerosol fragrance containers, which further have a high probability of breaking, cracking or being damaged if dropped or impacted during transport. [Means for solving the problem]

[0024] According to the present invention, the solution to the problem posed relates firstly to a portable device for receiving a replaceable capsule containing a solid cosmetic or fragrance product, said device comprising a receptacle having a recess complementarily shaped and sized to receive said capsule, said device comprising a system for opening and closing said recess, said recess including a retaining means provided to be removable from said capsule, said retaining means comprising snap engagement means shaped to engage with complementary snap fastening means provided with said capsule.

[0025] Such an apparatus comprises: - an opening / closing system (7) comprising a right lid (70) and a left lid (71) slidably mounted on said receptacle (3) from an open position to a closed position covering said recess (4) and vice versa; - the opening and closing system (7) a first rack (700) fixed to the right cover (70); a second rack (710) fixed to the left cover (71); a toothed central wheel (72) rotatably mounted within the receptacle (3) and meshing with the first rack (700) and the second rack (710) to provide simultaneous linear drive when opening the right lid (71) and the left lid (70) to separate them, and when closing the lids to bring them closer together.

[0026] According to one non-limiting embodiment, the means for holding the capsule in the recess of the device comprise at least three snap fastening means, preferably four snap fastening means, more preferably eight snap fastening means, in the form of a ball catch, the capsule being mutually provided with complementary snap fastening means for engaging with the ball of the catch, selected from three orifices, preferentially four orifices, more preferably eight orifices, or else at least one groove, the groove being provided on the outer periphery of the capsule.

[0027] According to a preferred embodiment, the means for holding the capsule in the recess of the device may comprise snap fastening means selected from three orifices, preferentially four orifices or more preferentially eight orifices or at least one groove, configured to engage with each of the complementary snap fastening means of the capsule in the form of a ball catch, the capsule being mutually provided with three complementary snap fastening means in the form of a ball catch, preferentially four snap fastening means and more preferentially eight snap fastening means.

[0028] According to one embodiment, said snap fastening means may comprise at least one groove shaped to engage with each of said complementary snap fastening means of the capsule in the form of a ball catch.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the snap fastening means may comprise at least one groove machined upwards or downwards into the inner contour of the recess, said at least one groove serving as an abutment for inserting the capsule.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the recess may include two grooves machined upwards and downwards into the inner contour of the recess, the two grooves acting as stops for inserting the capsule along two positions from the top and bottom respectively.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the opening and closing system comprises: - right and left levers in the form of two right and left pairs of sliding connecting rods, each of which is fitted and which at one end slide around and along the same pin fixed to said right and left lids, respectively, and at the opposite end rotate around a connecting pin fixed to said receptacle; a resilient blade attached and fixed to the receptacle, forming a spring that exerts a restoring force on each end of the lever, moving it away from the right and left lids towards the open position.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the opening and closing system may include an inflection point in each of the right and left connecting rods of the pair of right and left levers, beyond which the restoring force exerted by the elastic blade ensures the convergence of the left and right lids to the closed position.

[0033] According to one embodiment, one or the other of the components of the mobile device may be based on a material selected from titanium or a derivative thereof, preferentially grade 5 titanium, gold or red gold, steel, aluminium, carbon, plastic, poly(methyl methacrylate).

[0034] The present invention also relates to a second subject of an exchangeable capsule containing a solid product, capable of being accommodated, held and fixed via a holding means of a portable device according to the invention, characterized in that said capsule comprises a hollow shell provided on the outside with complementary snap fastening means shaped to engage with said snap fastening means of said portable device.

[0035] According to one embodiment, each of the complementary snap fastening means may be a ball catch which engages with a snap fastening means in the form of at least one groove, the groove being machined upwards or downwards into the inner contour of the recess.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the hollow shell contains inside the solid product selected from a solid fragrance, a solid makeup powder, a solid makeup remover, a solid soap, a solid shampoo, or a solid deodorant.

[0037] A third and further subject of the invention is also the use of a device according to the invention, provided with a capsule according to the invention, for self-cleaning, skin care, make-up applications or fragrance applications, depending on the corresponding product contained inside the hollow shell of said capsule. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0038] The invention and its advantages will be better understood on reading the following description and non-limiting embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0039] [Figure 1] 1 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a portable device according to the invention, particularly showing the device in a closed position; [Diagram 2] 2 shows diagrammatically a view similar to FIG. 1, showing the portable device in particular in the open position, in which a replaceable capsule is held; [Diagram 3] 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view along a longitudinal mid-plane of a portable device in an open position with a capsule held in a recess; [Figure 4] 5 shows diagrammatically a view similar to FIG. 3 of the mobile device in a closed position according to one embodiment, in particular showing the holding means with eight snap fastening means in the form of ball catches in their recesses. [Diagram 5] 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a replaceable capsule according to one embodiment, in particular showing complementary snap fastening means in the form of a ball catch; [Figure 6] 6 shows diagrammatically a view along a transverse central section of FIG. 5, showing in particular said complementary snap fastening means in the form of a ball catch. [Figure 7]3 shows diagrammatically a view along a transverse central section of another embodiment of the replaceable capsule, in particular showing said complementary snap fastening means in the form of grooves. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0040] The present invention relates to a portable device 1 intended to receive an exchangeable capsule 2 (hereinafter "capsule").

[0041] In particular, the capsule 2 contains a solid product of the cosmetic or fragrance type. As mentioned above, the solid product can be any type of cosmetic product in solid form, in particular a balm or compact powder, as well as any type of fragrance product in solid form, most particularly a solid fragrance, but also any type of solid deodorant, in particular as a compact balm, as well as any type of body care product for external use, for the skin, such as a solid soap, or for the hair, such as a solid shampoo, or even for the beard, such as a balm, as well as any type of beauty product for aesthetic use, such as a compact makeup powder or a solid makeup remover.

[0042] Such solid beauty or fragrance products, or body care products, may preferably, but not exclusively, be applied topically, essentially in contact with the skin and hair.

[0043] More specifically, the capsule 2 comprises a hollow shell 20 to contain the solid product.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the inner surface of the shell 20 may be provided with ridges 21, specifically shaped to increase the resistance of a solid product inside the shell 20. Figures 3 and 5 show examples of ridges provided in the bottom 22 of the shell 20.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the bottom 22 may be straight, i.e. parallel or substantially parallel to the lower wall 25 of the shell 2 .

[0046] According to another embodiment, as can be seen in FIGS. 6 and 7, the bottom 22 has a downward slope towards the center of the capsule 2.

[0047] Additionally, the bottom 22 may be concave.

[0048] Furthermore, the shell comprises an inner wall 23 that extends in an annular manner around said base 22. According to one embodiment, said inner wall 23 may be inclined with respect to a plane passing through said base 22. In other words, the inner wall is not parallel to the outer wall 24, but has a slope. Additionally, this slope extends away from said base 22. In short, the inner wall 23 narrows as it approaches the opening of the capsule 2. This slope therefore gives a larger inner diameter at the base 23 than at the opening, increasing the resistance of the solid product contained in said capsule 2.

[0049] Additionally, the capsule 2 is provided to be replaceable, i.e. removably attached to the portable device 1. This replaceable nature not only allows the capsule 2 to be located on the portable device 1 and removed therefrom, in particular when the product is used up, but also allows the product to be changed by inverting a capsule 2 containing a different composition.

[0050] To do this, the mobile device 1 comprises a receptacle 3 having a recess 4 .

[0051] The receptacle 3 may have any shape, in particular a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. This receptacle 3 serves as the base or central body of the mobile device 1.

[0052] In this respect, the portability of the device 1 corresponds to dimensions and mass that allow it to be held and handled by a user, but also to be stored in particular in a bag or in a piece of luggage, for example of the handbag type, or else in a pocket or pouch. The portable device 1 is therefore intended to be compact.

[0053] More specifically, the recess 4 is complementarily shaped and dimensioned to receive the capsule 2. In other words, the inner dimensions of the recess 4 correspond to the outer dimensions of the capsule 2, with a clearance that allows the capsule 2 to be inserted into the recess 4. Additionally, the insertion of the capsule 2 can be performed by slipping or sliding in the recess 4.

[0054] Furthermore, the recess 4 and the capsule 2 may have any shape. According to a preferred embodiment, the recess 4 has a circular cross section, while the capsule 2 has a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0055] The recess 4 is blind, but can alternatively be provided through, allowing the capsule 2 to be inserted in two directions, from the top or from the bottom, by inverting the portable device 1.

[0056] More specifically, according to the invention, the recess 4 is provided with means for holding the capsule 2, which are intended to be removable and thus make it possible to insert the capsule 2 and keep it fixed in the receptacle 3, in particular during transport and handling of the mobile device 1, while ensuring the possibility to extract the capsule 2, in particular to change or replace it.

[0057] Advantageously, the invention proposes that the holding means comprises snap fastening means 5 configured to engage with complementary snap fastening means 26 provided with said capsule 2. Briefly, the capsule 2 is held in the recess 4 by a snap fastening mechanism between said capsule 2 and said recess 4. This snap fastening therefore ensures locking of the capsule 2 in a releasable manner.

[0058] Said snap fastening means 5 can be of any type: for example, the snap fastening means 5 can function by an interlock, in particular male and female parts, a bayonet, etc.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the means for holding the capsule 2 in the recess 4 of the device 1 comprise at least three snap fastening means 5 in the form of ball catches, preferentially four snap fastening means 5, more preferentially eight snap fastening means 5. In addition, the capsule 2 is reciprocally provided with complementary snap fastening means 26 for engaging with the balls of the catches, selected from three orifices, preferentially four orifices or more preferentially eight orifices or at least one groove 6, the groove 6 being provided in the outer periphery of the capsule 2.

[0060] Such an arrangement can be seen in particular in Figure 7, where in cross section one can see a groove 6 arranged on the periphery of the capsule 2, i.e. in a recess along its periphery wall. Additionally, groove 6 is provided on the lower part of this lateral edge opposite the ball catch of device 1, in this case located at the lower part of recess 4.

[0061] According to another preferred embodiment, the means for holding the capsule 2 in the recess 4 of the device 1 comprise snap fastening means 5 selected from three orifices, preferentially four orifices or more preferentially eight orifices or at least one groove 6, configured to engage with each of the complementary snap fastening means 26 of the capsule 2 in the form of a ball catch. Furthermore, the capsule 2 is provided with three complementary snap fastening means 26 in the form of a ball catch, preferentially four snap fastening means 26 and more preferentially eight snap fastening means 26 relative to one another.

[0062] Additionally, a ball catch is integrated around and located on the periphery of the capsule 2. Such an arrangement can be seen in particular in figures 5 and 6, which show complementary snap fastening means 26 in the form of a ball catch.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the recess 4 comprises at least one groove 6 machined upwards or downwards into the inner contour of said recess 4, which groove acts as a support stop for inserting said capsule 2. This single groove then ensures a single insertion direction of the capsule 2 into the recess 4, for example only from one or the other of the surfaces of the mobile device 1, preferentially from the surface located thereon.

[0064] According to a preferred embodiment, the recess 4 comprises two grooves machined upwards and downwards in the contour of the recess 4. The two grooves serve as support stops for inserting the capsule 2 in two positions from the top and bottom respectively. In other words, it is possible to introduce the capsule 2 from either side of the mobile device 1.

[0065] It will be noted that in this case the recess 4 is provided to be a through recess.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the snap fastening means 5 comprises at least one groove 6, preferably two grooves, machined upwards or downwards into the inner contour of the recess 4, which at least one, preferably two grooves 6 act as a stop in the insertion direction of the capsule 2.

[0067] Preferentially, the snap fastening means 5 comprises a groove 6 located at the bottom of the recess 4, enabling a corresponding catch of the capsule 2 to be positioned at the bottom of the opposite periphery of said capsule 2.

[0068] According to another embodiment, the recess 4 comprises two grooves 6 machined upwards and downwards into the inner contour of the recess 4, the two grooves 6 acting as stops when inserting the capsule 2 along two positions from the top and bottom respectively.

[0069] In either case, the ball catch is commonly known and is also called "ball pusher". It comprises a hollow cylindrical flange forming a blind hole, in which a compression spring abuts against the bottom of the flange. At the opening side, a ball is positioned and supports a peripheral edge surface under the effect of the compression of the spring, the opening dimension of which is smaller than the diameter of the ball and prevents the ball from being ejected from the flange. In addition, the inner diameter of the flange is equal or substantially equal to the diameter of the ball, allowing the ball to slip, roll or slide towards the inside of the flange while the support of the ball is performed, and then the ball is pushed inwards until it is flush with the edge surface of the flange. Then, when the support is stopped, the spring pushes the ball back outwards. The ball then projects again.

[0070] The balls are thus inserted by protruding into corresponding orifices or grooves 6 , preferentially into corresponding grooves 6 , ensuring the locking of the capsule 2 in the recess 4 .

[0071] According to an embodiment of the invention, there may be at least three snap fastening means 5. These three snap fastening points distributed around the recess 4 ensure holding the capsule 2 at least in said recess 4 without rotating, tilting or vibrating inside said recess 4. Additionally, the at least three snap fastening means 5 are distributed in a triangular manner at least on both sides of the axis of symmetry of said recess 4.

[0072] Additionally, logically, the capsule 2 may comprise as many complementary snap fastening means 26 as the recesses 4 comprise snap fastening means 5, if said complementary snap fastening means 26 are independent of one another, in particular if they are orifices or ball catches.

[0073] Conversely, in the case of complementary snap fastening means 26 in the form of grooves 6, a single groove 6 can be used to engage with three snap fastening means 5 of the device 1. This arrangement in particular allows the capsule 2 to be rotated at any angle and repositioned in the recess 4, according to the user's preferences.

[0074] According to another embodiment, in order to improve the holding of the capsule 2, the means 5 for holding the capsule 2 in the recess 4 of the mobile device 1 comprise at least four snap fastening means 5. In that case, the capsule 2 is provided with four complementary snap fastening means 26, also if the complementary snap fastening means are independent.

[0075] Conversely, in the case of complementary snap fastening means 26 in the form of grooves 6, a single groove 6 can be used to engage with four snap fastening means 5 of the device 1.

[0076] According to a preferred embodiment, as can be seen in Fig. 4, the means 5 for holding the capsule 2 in the recess 4 of the portable device 1 comprise eight snap fastening means 5, whereas, if the complementary snap fastening means are also independent, the capsule 2 is provided with eight complementary snap fastening means 26. Such an arrangement with eight snap fastening means 5 can be seen in particular in Fig. 4. This arrangement not only ensures an optimal holding of the capsule 2, but also strength when the capsule 2 is pressed by the user during use of the solid composition contained therein.

[0077] Conversely, in the case of complementary snap fastening means 26 in the form of a groove 6, a single groove 6 can be used to engage eight snap fastening means 5 of the device 1.

[0078] Conversely, according to another preferred embodiment, the means for holding the capsule 2 in the recess 4 of the device 1 comprise snap fastening means 5 selected from three orifices, conversely preferentially four orifices or more preferentially eight orifices, or at least one groove 6, preferably at least one groove 6, more preferentially two grooves 6 machined upwards or downwards into the inner contour of the recess 4, configured to engage with each of the complementary snap fastening means 26 of the capsule 2 in the form of a ball catch. In this configuration, the capsule 2 is provided with three complementary snap fastening means 26, preferentially four snap fastening means 26, more preferentially eight snap fastening means 26 in the form of ball catches relative to one another.

[0079] Furthermore, the removable snap fastening of the capsule 2 allows the user to angularly reposition said capsule 2 and rotate it according to the angle between the means 5 and 26, in particular based on irregular use of one side of the product contained in said capsule, this type of irregularity usually resulting from use by a right-handed or left-handed user, in which case the user simply needs to remove the capsule 2 from the recess 4 and rotate and reposition it.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the snap-fastening means 5 are regularly distributed around said recess 5. They can thus be spaced on the inner wall of said recess 4 at regular intervals or else according to one or more symmetries, along one or more axes of symmetry or according to a centre of symmetry.

[0081] In particular, in the case of an even number of snap fastening means 5, two snap fastening means 5 are preferentially diametrically opposed.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the snap fastening means 5 is located above and / or below the recess 4 in the central longitudinal mid-plane of the mobile device 1. In each version, the complementary snap fastening means 26 is located above and / or below the capsule 2 in the central longitudinal mid-plane of the capsule 2. Figures 6 and 7 show the complementary snap fastening means 26 located below the capsule 2.

[0083] More specifically, according to the invention, the mobile device 1 is equipped with a system 7 (hereinafter “system”) for opening and closing the recess 4 .

[0084] More specifically, the system 7 comprises a right lid 70 and a left lid 71. The lids 70, 71 are slidably mounted relative to the receptacle 3 from an open position to a closed position covering the recess 4 and vice versa.

[0085] In particular, in the open position of the lids 70, 71 the entire recess 4 is accessible. In other words, the spacing between the lids 70 and 71 in the open position has a dimension that is at least equal, and preferably larger than the recess 4, and indeed larger than the capsule 2.

[0086] To ensure simultaneous opening and closing of the lids 70 , 71 , the system 7 comprises a first rack 700 fixed to the right lid 70 and a second rack 710 fixed to the left lid 71 .

[0087] In addition, the system 7 comprises a central toothed wheel 72 rotatably mounted within the receptacle 3. In particular, the wheel 72 is rotatably mounted around the recess 4.

[0088] In addition, wheels 72 are mounted in mesh with the first rack 700 and the second rack 710 to provide simultaneous linear drive when opening the right lid 70 and the left lid 71 to separate the right lid 70 and the left lid 71, and when closing the lids to bring the lids closer together.

[0089] Thus, during opening and / or closing, actuation by the user of the right lid 70 (or left lid 71) fixed to its right rack 700 (or, respectively, its left rack 710) makes it possible to rotate the toothed wheel 72 which drives the other left rack 710 (or, respectively, the other right rack 700), itself fixed to the other left lid 71 (reciprocally, the other right lid 70). A synchronous opening of the two lids 70, 71 is thus obtained, offering the possibility of opening and closing the device 1 with one hand.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the system 7 comprises a right lever 701 and a left lever 711 in the form of two pairs of sliding connecting rods, one on the right and one on the left. In addition, each of the right and left connecting rods is mounted to slide at one end around and along the same pin 702, 712 fixed to said right lid 70 and said left lid 71. At the opposite end, each of the two connecting rods of the levers 701, 711 is mounted to rotate around a pin 703, 713 for connecting to said receptacle 3. In particular, the levers 701, 711 have an elongated notch at one end, ensuring that they slide around the respective sliding pin 702, 712, while the opposite end is mounted to rotate on the corresponding pin 703, 713.

[0091] The mechanism obtained by the assembly of the levers 70, 71 respectively is therefore similar to a two-bar mechanism, in particular converting the essentially linear thrust of the resilient blades 704, 714 into a rotational movement combined with the sliding of the levers 70, 71.

[0092] Additionally, according to a preferred embodiment, as can be seen in Figures 3 and 4, the levers 701, 711 are generally L-shaped with right-angled or substantially right-angled branches extending from opposite ends mounted for rotation on pivot pins 703, 713.

[0093] Additionally, the system 7 comprises elastic blades 704, 714 mounted and fixed to the receptacle 3. These blades 704, 714 are located respectively on the right and left sides of the recess 4. Additionally, the elastic blades 704, 714 form springs that exert a restoring force on the respective ends of the levers 701, 711, moving away from the right and left lids 70, 71 towards the open position.

[0094] Thus, in the closed position, as can be seen in Figure 4, the levers 701, 711 compress their respective blades 704, 714, which push back with elastic return to the open position, as can be seen in Figure 3, to facilitate opening. Additionally, the elastic blades 704, 714 are configured to ensure elastic return to said open position following maximum travel of the lids 70, 71.

[0095] Furthermore, the end of the opening stroke may be obtained by any type of abutment. In particular, the travel stop may be obtained by an elongated notch abutting the sliding pins 702, 712 of the levers 701, 711, respectively.

[0096] On the contrary, as can be seen from FIG. 4, in order to ensure locking in the closed position, the particular configuration of the system 7 makes it possible, by means of the mechanism of the levers 701, 711 with the connecting rods, to induce a geometry which ensures that the restoring force of the blades 704, 714 pushes the corresponding branch of the lever 701, 711 towards the bottom of the lids 70, 71.

[0097] In particular, the movement of the levers 701, 711 has an inflection point or equilibrium point beyond which a restoring force causes the connecting rod mechanism to pivot to an open or closed position, i.e., for each of said levers 701, 711, pushing or restoring the connecting rods relative to each other.

[0098] Thus, according to one embodiment, system 7 includes an inflection point on each of the right and left connecting rods of the pair of right and left levers 701, 711, beyond which the restoring force exerted by the resilient blades 704, 714 ensures the convergence of the right and left lids 70, 71 to the closed position. Additionally, this force beyond the inflection point ensures locking of the lids 70, 71 in the closed position.

[0099] As a result, to unlock the lid 70, 71, the user simply exerts a thrust through the inflection point, whereupon the restoring force ensures that said lid 70, 71 slides through said inflection point until it fully opens the mobile device 1. Thus, the invention makes it possible to obtain a semi-automatic movement that is applied after passing through a given inflection point of the mechanism to open or close the mobile device 1.

[0100] As mentioned above, the present invention also relates to a portable device 1 including such a replaceable capsule 2 .

[0101] The invention provides that the materials of the various abovementioned components can be of any type, in particular metal, composite, plastic or ceramic matrix composite.

[0102] According to various embodiments, one or the other of the components of the mobile device 1 is based on a material selected from titanium or a derivative thereof, preferably titanium, gold or red gold, steel, aluminium, carbon, plastic, poly(methyl methacrylate).

[0103] Preferentially, the material chosen is said grade 5 titanium, i.e. an alloy with aluminum-vanadium that offers a compromise between mechanical strength, durability and ductility, and also ensures easy machinability and weldability. Additionally, this grade 5 titanium, used not only for the mechanism but also for the capsule 2, is recognized for its multiple physical and mechanical properties, such as its robustness, its resistance to corrosion and wear, its biocompatibility, its low density, etc. Grade 5 titanium is also compatible with the ingredients of, in particular, cosmetic and fragrance products, without, for example, chemical interactions between these elements.

[0104] The invention also relates to said capsule 2 being intended to be replaceable.

[0105] As mentioned above, the capsule 2 can be received, held and fixed by a holding means 5 of the portable device 1 .

[0106] The capsule 2 comprises a hollow shell 20 .

[0107] Additionally, the shell 20 may be made of the same selection of materials as the above-mentioned components of the mobile device 1 .

[0108] Furthermore, the shell 20 is provided on the outside with complementary snap fastening means 26 adapted to engage with the snap fastening means 5 of the mobile device 1 .

[0109] With reference to a corresponding embodiment, said complementary snap fastening means 26 are each a groove 6 which engages with a snap fastening means 5 in the form of a ball catch. Such an embodiment can be seen in particular in FIG.

[0110] Alternatively, with reference to a corresponding embodiment, each of said complementary snap fastening means 26 is a ball catch which engages with a snap fastening means 5 in the form of a groove 6. One such embodiment can be seen in particular in Figure 6, which shows two ball catches integrated into the capsule 2 in a diametrically opposed manner.

[0111] Moreover, as mentioned above, the capsule 2 contains a solid product, preferably a cosmetic or fragrance product.

[0112] According to various embodiments, the hollow shell of capsule 2 contains inside the solid product selected from a solid fragrance, a solid makeup powder, a solid makeup remover, a solid soap, a solid shampoo, or a solid deodorant.

[0113] Thus, as explained above, the present invention also relates to the use of the portable device 1 when provided with a capsule 2 as explained above. The intended uses are, but are not limited to, for self-cleaning, skin care, make-up applications or fragrance applications, depending on the corresponding product contained inside the hollow shell of said capsule.

[0114] In fact, the invention, through its portable device 1 and its replaceable capsules 2, allows the user to easily change them based on his needs throughout the day. It is possible to transport several cosmetics or fragrances, each in a different capsule 2, by inverting the capsule to accommodate it and keeping it in the device 1, depending on the desired use. This change of capsule 2 is easily and stress-free, without risk of making a mistake in the direction of introduction and opening or closing the lid 70, 71 of the portable device 1, by pressing the opposite side until it releases the snap-fastening and comes out of the recess 4.

[0115] In a related manner, the reliability of the materials envisaged makes it possible to obtain a compact device 1, the portability of which is enhanced, in particular due to its low weight.

[0116] Furthermore, the robust material of the capsules makes it possible to envisage return and recycling services.

[0117] The portable device 1 according to the invention therefore offers a renewed fragrance method, modernising and revolutionising the use of solid cosmetics and in particular solid perfumes, thus generating new habits and awareness.

Claims

1. A portable device (1) for receiving replaceable capsules (2) containing a solid cosmetic or fragrance product, said device (1) comprising a receptacle (3) having a recess (4) complementarily shaped and sized to receive said capsule (2), said device (1) comprising an opening and closing system (7) for opening and closing said recess (4), said recess (4) comprising retaining means provided to be removable from said capsule (2), said retaining means comprising snap fastening means (5) shaped to engage with complementary snap fastening means (26) provided on said capsule (2), - the opening / closing system (7) comprises a right lid (70) and a left lid (71), the right lid (70) and the left lid (71) being slidably mounted on the receptacle (3) from an open position to a closed position covering the recess (4) and vice versa; - said opening and closing system (7) a first rack (700) fixed to said right cover (70); - a second rack (710) fixed to said left cover (71); a toothed central wheel (72) rotatably mounted in the receptacle (3) and meshing with the first rack (700) and the second rack (710) to provide simultaneous linear drives when opening the right lid (70) and the left lid (71) to separate them, and when closing the right lid (70) and the left lid (71) to bring them closer together.

2. 2. The portable device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the holding means for holding the capsule (2) in the recess (4) of the device (1) comprise at least three snap fastening means (5), preferably four snap fastening means (5), more preferably eight snap fastening means (5) in the form of ball catches, and the capsule (2) is reciprocally provided with complementary snap fastening means (26) for engaging with the balls of the catches, selected from three orifices, preferably four orifices, or more preferably eight orifices, or else at least one groove (6), the groove (6) being provided on the outer periphery of the capsule (2).

3. 2. The portable device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the holding means for holding the capsule (2) in the recess (4) of the device (1) comprise snap fastening means (5) configured to engage with each of the complementary snap fastening means (26) of the capsule (2) in the form of a ball catch, the snap fastening means (5) being selected from three orifices, preferably four orifices, or more preferably eight orifices, or at least one groove (6), and the capsule (2) is provided with three complementary snap fastening means (26) in the form of a ball catch, preferably four snap fastening means (26), more preferably eight snap fastening means (26) relative to one another.

4. 4. The portable device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the snap fastening means (5) comprises at least one groove (6) shaped to engage with each of the complementary snap fastening means (26) of the capsule (2) in the form of a ball catch.

5. 5. The portable device (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the snap fastening means (5) comprises at least one groove (6) machined upwards or downwards into the inner contour of the recess (4), said at least one groove (6) serving as an abutment for inserting the capsule (2).

6. 6. The portable device (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the recess (4) comprises two grooves (6) machined upward and downward in the inner contour of the recess (4), the two grooves (6) acting as stops when inserting the capsule (2) along two positions from the top and bottom respectively.

7. The opening and closing system (7) - right (701) and left (711) levers in the form of two right and left pairs of sliding connecting rods, each of which is fitted with a right and left connecting rod that slides at one end around and along the same pin (702, 712) fixed to said right lid (70) and said left lid (71), respectively, and that rotates at the opposite end around a connecting pin (703, 713) fixed to said receptacle (3); - elastic blades (704, 714) attached and fixed to the receptacle (3) and forming springs that exert a restoring force on the ends of the right lever (701) and the left lever (711), respectively, so as to move them away from the right lid (70) and the left lid (70) towards the open position.

8. 8. The portable device (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that the opening and closing system (7) includes an inflection point for each of the right and left connecting rods of the pair of the right lever (701) and the left lever (711), and once the inflection point is exceeded, the restoring force exerted by the elastic blades (704, 714) ensures the convergence of the right cover (70) and the left cover (71) to the closed position.

9. Mobile device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that one or other of the components of said mobile device (1) is based on a material chosen from titanium or a derivative thereof, preferentially grade 5 titanium, gold or red gold, steel, aluminium, carbon, plastic, poly(methyl methacrylate).

10. A replaceable capsule (2) containing a solid product, capable of receiving, holding and fixing said capsule (2) via a holding means of a portable device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that said capsule (2) comprises a hollow shell (20) provided on the outside with complementary snap fastening means (26) configured to engage with said snap fastening means (5) of said portable device (1).

11. 11. The replaceable capsule (2) according to claim 10, characterized in that each of the complementary snap fastening means (26) is a ball catch that engages with the snap fastening means (5) in the form of at least one groove (6), said groove (6) being machined upwards or downwards into the inner contour of the recess (4).

12. 11. The replaceable capsule of claim 10, wherein the hollow shell (20) contains inside the solid product selected from a solid fragrance, a makeup powder, a solid makeup remover, a solid soap, a solid shampoo, or a solid deodorant.

13. Use of the device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, provided with a capsule (2) according to any one of claims 10 to 12 for self-cleaning, skin care, make-up application or fragrance application, depending on the corresponding product contained inside the hollow shell (20) of the capsule (2).

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