Refillable device for packaging and applying cosmetics

Abstract

An apparatus (10) for applying and packaging cosmetics includes a case (12) defining a housing and having at least one first snap-fit relief (54; 72), and a refill (14) of cosmetics at least partially received in the housing defined by the case (12), the refill (14) having a second snap-fit relief (72; 84). One of the at least one first snap-fit relief (54; 72) and the at least one second snap-fit relief (72; 54) is made of metal and includes at least one retaining claw (56) extending between at least two longitudinal blind slots (58).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of refillable devices for packaging and applying cosmetics.

Background Art

[0002] In the field of cosmetics, in particular, users are particularly sensitive to the aesthetics of the devices for application and packaging. However, the cost of aesthetically pleasing application and packaging devices is high, which further increases the cost of cosmetics sold in this form commercially.

[0003] The idea has emerged of providing an aesthetically pleasing application and packaging device, including a separate refill that may be less aesthetically pleasing but less expensive to package. Preferably, the refill is removable, whereby the application and packaging device can be refilled with a removable refill.

[0004] The application and packaging device specifically comprises a case formed by a base and a cap, and the case can be made at least partially from metal. Such a case is actually particularly appreciated by users and is particularly well - evaluated from an aesthetic point of view. Also, such a refillable device can result in an improved environmental footprint since only the refill is discarded after the cosmetic has been used.

[0005] However, in this case, fixing the refill to the cap can pose problems.

[0006] In fact, the fixing of the refill to the case is preferably done by a snap - fit. However, in this case, it is difficult to achieve a snap - fit that is robust enough to ensure that the refill is held in the case and yet can be easily removed to allow the refill to be removed and replaced.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] This disclosure improves this situation.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0008] This disclosure is an apparatus for applying and packaging refillable cosmetics, - a case that defines a housing and has at least one first snap-fit relief, - a refill of cosmetics intended to be at least partially received in the housing defined by the case, the refill having a second snap-fit relief, comprising Proposed is an apparatus for applying and packaging refillable cosmetics, wherein one of the at least one first snap-fit relief and the at least one second snap-fit relief is made of metal and comprises at least one retaining claw extending between at least two longitudinal blind slots.

[0009] Thus, advantageously, it is possible to make an apparatus for applying and packaging cosmetics that implements at least one snap-fit relief made of metal for fixing the refill to the case. The defined retaining relief ensures both permanent fixing of the refill in the case and easy disassembly, limiting the risk of damage to the refill and the case.

[0010] According to a preferred embodiment, the apparatus for applying and packaging cosmetics can present one or more of the following features, used alone or in combination. - The retaining claw and the two longitudinal blind slots are on the cylindrical surface of a metal sleeve. - The retaining claw has a protruding relief. - The protruding relief extends across the entire width of the claw. - The other of the at least one first snap-fit relief and the at least one second snap-fit relief -- a groove, and, if necessary, in particular a groove for receiving the protruding relief of the retaining claw -- a ribbed part, and -- at least one, preferably a plurality of protrusions comprises one of them. - The case mainly extends along the axis, the two slots are parallel to the axis, and the protruding relief extends along a direction perpendicular to the axis if necessary. - The case comprises an outer shell for receiving a metal sleeve, and the retaining claw and the two longitudinal blind slots are in the metal sleeve. - The case comprises a base. - The base comprises an outer shell for receiving a metal sleeve, and the retaining claw and the two longitudinal blind slots are in the metal sleeve at the base. - The device for applying and packaging cosmetics further comprises a cap for closing the base, and the cap is preferably fixed to the case in a removable manner, for example, by magnetization, snap fit, or screwing. - The cap comprises an outer shell for receiving a metal sleeve, the metal sleeve forms a retaining claw, and the two longitudinal blind slots are in the metal sleeve in the cap for fixing a refill in the cap. - The refill comprises a sleeve forming a retaining claw extending between the two longitudinal blind slots for fixing the refill to the base of the case or, if necessary, to the cap. - The device for applying and packaging preferably comprises an application device included in the refill. - The application device comprises means for dispensing cosmetics, in particular a pipette or a pump. - The dispensing means is a lipstick mechanism for receiving a lipstick pellet. - The lipstick mechanism is adapted to be driven in rotation by a second meshing relief integral with the base of the case by a second meshing relief for moving the lipstick pellet in the lipstick mechanism between at least one first storage position and at least one second lipstick application position. - The first engagement relief is formed by a notch on the front surface of the base plate of the lipstick mechanism and is free in rotation with respect to the neck of the lipstick. - The refill for cosmetics comprises a container for the cosmetics. - The refill for cosmetics comprises a stopper that is integral with the application element of the cosmetics, the stopper being preferably adapted to be fixed to the container in order to close the container, and the application element still preferably being in the container when the stopper closes the container. - The cap is preferably fixed to the stopper in a removable manner. - The cap is snap-fitted to a metal sleeve fixed to the stopper, the metal sleeve having at least one snap-fit relief extending between two longitudinal blind slots and provided with retaining claws. - The application element is one of a brush, perhaps a plastic with a flocked tip, and a cosmetic brush.

[0011] Other features, details, and advantages will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and analyzing the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] In the remainder of this description, the same elements, or elements having the same function, have the same reference numerals. For the sake of brevity of this description, in some examples the same elements are not described in detail in the context of the detailed description of each of these examples. On the contrary, the following description details the differences between different examples first.

[0014] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates in perspective view a first example of an apparatus 10 for applying and packaging cosmetics. According to this first example, the cosmetics are presented in the form of a stick. Specifically, the cosmetics are a lipstick, a skin or lip care product, and in particular, can be a lip balm, a sunscreen product for the lips or the skin.

[0015] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the apparatus 10 for applying and packaging comprises essentially a case 12 and a refill 14. The case 12 comprises a base 15 and a cap 16, which here consists of the base 15 and the cap 16. As shown, the apparatus 10 for applying and packaging, specifically the case 12, has a generally cylindrical shape that extends mainly along the direction of the axis A10 of the apparatus 10 for applying and packaging. Here, the apparatus 10 for applying and packaging has a generally cylindrical shape with an elliptical cross-section. Of course, other common shapes of the apparatus 10 for applying and packaging are possible. Specifically, the apparatus 10 for applying and packaging has a generally cylindrical shape with a circular or polygonal cross-section.

[0016] The base 15 of the case 12 is shown in cross-section in FIG. 3. The base 15 of the case 12 first comprises a tubular outer shell 18 which extends mainly along the axis A15 of the extension of the base 15 of the case 12, the axis A15 corresponding to the axis A10 in the device 10 for applying and packaging. Here, the outer shell 18 has an elliptical cross-section. The outer shell 18 can be made of any material that occurs to a person skilled in the art to form the casing of the device 10 for applying and packaging cosmetics in the form of a stick, in particular glass, and specifically aluminum, or a metal such as an aluminum alloy, in particular Zamak, or ceramics, or porcelain, or crystal, or a plastic such as an ionomer resin such as polymethyl methacrylate, polystyrene, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, ethylene vinyl copolymer known under the trade name Surlyn (registered trademark), or wood, or can be made of urea formaldehyde.

[0017] On the radially inner surface, the outer shell 18 has a rib 20. Here, the rib 20 is straight and parallel to the axis A15 of the base 15 of the case 12. The rib 20 extends here only over a part of the height of the outer shell 18 and is oriented along the direction of the axis A15 of the base 15 of the case 12. For example, the rib 20 extends over at least two-thirds of the height of the outer shell 18, preferably over at least three-quarters of the height of the outer shell 18.

[0018] The base 15 of the case 12 also comprises, according to the example shown, a capsule 22 fixed to the end of the outer shell 18. Thus, the capsule 22 closes one longitudinal end of the tubular outer shell 18. The capsule 22 can have a base plate 24 intended to form the longitudinal end of the device 10 for applying and packaging, as shown. For this purpose, one face of the base plate 24 of the capsule 22, which is oriented on the outside of the outer shell 18, can contain a statement or a decoration which is formed directly on the base plate 24 or attached to this base plate 24 of the capsule 22.

[0019] The capsule 22 further comprises a crown portion 26 protruding from the base plate 24. Here, the crown portion 26 has a generally cylindrical shape along the axis A15 of the base 15 of the case 12 and has an elliptical cross-section that is substantially complementary to the cross-section inside the outer shell 18. Thus, the crown portion 26 can be fastened to the outer shell 18. The crown portion 26 has indentations 28 on its radially outer surface, and one of the indentations 28 receives a part of the rib 20 of the outer shell 18. The reception of a part of the rib 20 in one particular indentation 28 can have a foolproof function for fixing the capsule 22 in a specific orientation with respect to the outer shell 18. Here, the crown portion 26 also has indentations 30 on its radially inner surface. The indentations 30 on the radially inner surface of the crown portion 26 are always between two indentations 28 on the radially outer surface, and the indentations 28 on the radially outer surface are angularly offset with respect to the indentations 30 on the radially inner surface such that the indentations 28 on the radially outer surface are always between two indentations 30 on the radially inner surface. Such a configuration can obtain a capsule 22 that is lighter and easier to make by molding by restricting the thickness of the crown portion 26.

[0020] Alternatively, the capsule 22 may be integral with the outer shell 18.

[0021] The base 15 of the case 12 further comprises an insert 32 that is received by the outer shell 18. For this purpose, the insert 32 has a general shape that is substantially complementary to the shape of the outer shell 18. Specifically, in the example shown, the insert 32 has a cylindrical portion 34 that is complementary to the cross-section of the outer shell 18. A groove 36 is on the radially outer surface of the cylindrical portion 34. The groove 36 is substantially linear and parallel to the axis A15 of the base 15 of the case 12. Here, one of the grooves 36 receives the rib 20 on the radially inner surface of the outer shell 18. Here too, the reception of a part of the rib 20 in a particular groove 36 can have a foolproof function regarding the orientation of the insert 32 with respect to the outer shell 18.

[0022] Instead, the receiving of a part of the ridge portion 20 in the groove 36 prevents the relative rotation between these ridge portions 20 and the groove 36 around the axis A15 of the base portion 15 of the case 12. However, in this case, it is preferable that some of the ridge portions 20 are at least partially received in their respective grooves 36.

[0023] Also, here, the insert 32 projects in the direction of the axis A15 of the base portion 15 of the case 12 with respect to the cylindrical portion 34 and forms two claws 38 extending in the extending portion of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 34. However, the insert 32, specifically the cylindrical portion 34, forms a flange 35 at the base of the claws 38. A projection 37 projects from the flange 35 in the direction of the axis A15 of the base portion 15 of the case 12.

[0024] The insert 32 further forms an engagement relief 40. Here, the engagement relief 40 is in the form of a relief with an outer cylindrical shape along the axis A15 of the base portion 15 of the case 12. Here, the engagement relief 40 has a cross-section in the shape of a five-pointed star. Of course, other shapes of the engagement relief are available to those skilled in the art. Specifically, the engagement relief 40 can empirically take any cylindrical shape with a non-circular cross-section, particularly a polygonal cross-section.

[0025] The base portion 15 of the case 12 further includes a magnet 42 according to the illustrated example. The magnet 42 is received in contact with the flange 35 of the insert 32, for example, between the two claws 38 of the insert 32. The magnet 42 also includes a notch 44 for receiving the projection 37 of the insert 32 in the illustrated example. Therefore, the orientation of the magnet 42 is ensured with respect to the insert 32, and thus with respect to the base portion 15 of the case 12, because the orientation of the insert 32 is ensured by the foolproof formed by the receiving of the ridge portion 20 in the groove 36. This is particularly interesting when the magnet 42 is a quadrupole magnet.

[0026] Finally, the base 15 of the case 12 comprises a sleeve 46. Here, the sleeve 46 is made of a metal such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy such as Zamak. The sleeve 46 comprises a cylindrical portion 48 with a circular cross-section, a first annular portion 50 that projects radially outward with respect to the cylindrical portion 48 at the first end of the cylindrical portion 48, and a second annular portion 52 that projects radially inward with respect to the cylindrical portion 48 at the second end of the cylindrical portion 48. The second annular portion 52 defines a central opening through which the cylindrical base 41 of the engagement relief 40 of the insert 32 extends. The first annular portion 50 defines a housing for receiving the magnet 42 together with the outer shell 18, the insert 32, specifically, the cylindrical portion 34 of the insert 32, and the cylindrical portion 48 of the sleeve 46.

[0027] Also, as can be seen more specifically in FIG. 7, the cylindrical portion 48 of the sleeve 46 forms two snap-fit reliefs 54 (or retaining reliefs). Here, the two snap-fit reliefs 54 are symmetric with respect to the axis A15 of the base 15 of the case 12. Each snap-fit relief 54 comprises a retaining claw 56 that extends between two slots 58, as shown.

[0028] Here, both slots 58 are identical. Here, the slot is understood to correspond to an opening that traverses the wall of the cylindrical portion 48 of the sleeve 46 along a direction radial to the axis A15 of the base 15 of the case 12. Thus, each slot 58 traverses the thickness of the sleeve 46, specifically, the thickness of the cylindrical portion of the sleeve 46 in which the slot 58 is formed. Each slot 58 can be made by removing material from the sleeve 46. However, alternatively, each slot 58 may be made by cutting out the sleeve 46, specifically, the cylindrical portion 48 of the sleeve 46, without substantially removing material from the sleeve 46. In all cases, each slot 58 here separates two edges of the material of the sleeve 46, specifically, the material of the cylindrical portion 48 of the sleeve 46, along a direction perpendicular to the radius. Each slot 58 here extends longitudinally parallel to the axis A15 of the base 15 of the case 12. Thus, each slot 58 is straight in the illustrated example.

[0029] As can be seen in FIG. 7, each slot 58 is formed in the sleeve 46 and, specifically, does not have an outlet at the point where it extends between two longitudinal ends formed in the cylindrical portion 48 of the sleeve 46. The slot 58 makes the sleeve 46 substantially more flexible, specifically, the cylindrical portion 48 of the sleeve 46 between two adjacent slots 58 where the cylindrical portion 48 of the sleeve 46 forms the retaining claws 56 substantially more flexible.

[0030] Each retaining claw 56 has a relief 60 that projects radially inward. Thus, each relief 60 projects relative to the remaining portion of the retaining claw 56 provided by the relief 60. Here, the projecting relief 60 is formed by the uplifting of the retaining claw 56. Such uplifting is created by the deformation of the retaining claw 56. Thus, the retaining claw 56 has substantially no additional thickness at the projecting relief 60. Here, the uplifting 60 is in a direction substantially perpendicular to the radius at the point where the entire portion extending between two adjacent slots 58 is substantially hemispherical in the form of an angular region of a cylinder. However, alternatively, the projecting relief 60 may be formed by a bead or by any other form available to those skilled in the art.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 7, each claw 56 is integral with the remaining portion of the sleeve 46 at each of its ends, specifically, integral with the cylindrical sheath of the cylindrical portion 48 of the sleeve 46. Each claw 56 is separated from the remaining portion of the sleeve 46 along the lateral side of the claw 56 by a slot 58 that extends along the lateral side of the claw 56 parallel to the axis A15 of the base 15 of the case 12.

[0032] Each claw 56 can extend, if necessary, except for the projecting relief 60, in the extension of the cylindrical sheath of the cylindrical portion 48 of the sleeve 46. In this case, only the projecting relief 60 is not included in the extension of the cylindrical sheath of the cylindrical portion 48 of the sleeve 46. However, alternatively, each claw 56 does not extend in the extension of the cylindrical sheath of the cylindrical portion 48 of the sleeve 46.

[0033] Each claw 56, and thus each slot 58, can have a length of 1 mm or more, preferably 2 mm or more, and / or 10 mm or less, preferably 5 mm or less, as measured here in the direction of the axis A15 of the base 15 of the case 12.

[0034] Each protruding relief 60 extends longitudinally along a direction perpendicular to the axis A15 of the base 15 of the case 12, and here, it extends along a direction perpendicular to the radius with respect to the axis A15 of the base 15 of the case 12. Each protruding relief 60 may extend across the entire width of the corresponding claw 56. However, alternatively, each protruding relief 60 is located only in a portion of the width of the claw 56 between the two slots 58. Specifically, each protruding relief 60 can be at least half of the width of the claw 56, preferably at least three - quarters of the width of the claw 56.

[0035] Each protruding relief 60 can be substantially formed between one - third and two - thirds of the height of the corresponding claw 56, particularly at the middle of the height of the corresponding claw 56. In fact, the deformation of the claw 56 is more significant towards the middle of its height rather than specifically at its longitudinal ends.

[0036] The protruding relief 60 has a height measured along the direction of the axis A15 of the base 15 of the case 12 that is smaller than the height of the slot 58 measured along the same direction of the axis A15 of the base 15 of the case 12. For example, the height of the protruding relief 60 is 0.1 mm or more, preferably 0.5 mm or more, and / or 3 mm or less, preferably 2 mm or less. The height of the protruding relief 60 is preferably limited with respect to the height of the fastening claw 56. For example, the height of the protruding relief 60 corresponds to less than 20%, preferably less than 10% of the height of the fastening claw 56. The width of the protruding relief 60 measured along the circumferential or orthogonal direction can be 1 mm or more, preferably 2 mm or more, and / or 10 mm or less, preferably 5 mm or less. The distance between the upper part of the protruding relief 60 and the cylindrical sheath of the cylindrical part 48 of the sleeve 46 measured along the radial direction with respect to the axis A15 of the base 15 of the case 12 can be less than 2 mm, preferably less than 1 mm. Thus, the claw 56 has good flexibility while maintaining sufficient mechanical strength.

[0037] Accordingly, each claw 56 provided with a protruding relief 60 extending between two slots 58 forms a snap-fit relief 54 in the cylindrical portion 48 of the sleeve 46. Preferably, each snap-fit relief 54 consists of such a claw 56 with a protruding relief 60 extending between two slots 58. In an interesting approach, such a snap-fit relief 54 is formed by a metal part, in this case by the sleeve 46. In other words, even when the snap-fit relief 54 is formed by a metal part, in this case by the sleeve 46, it is possible to create a snap-fit relief 54 having sufficient elasticity to be deformed. Creating a metal snap-fit relief 54 is interesting in more than one way. First, metal is easier to recycle than plastic. Also, metal is stronger than plastic, so the risk of brinelling of the metal snap-fit relief 54 is reduced.

[0038] The sleeve 46 can have a thickness, for example, of 0.1 mm or more and / or 1 mm or less. Thus, the sleeve 46 is also hard enough that it becomes difficult or even impossible to deform the sleeve 46 by hand when it is not at the level of the claws 56.

[0039] FIG. 4 schematically shows in cross-section a refill 14 intended to be received in the case 12 described above, specifically in the base 15 of the case 12.

[0040] The refill 14 comprises a lipstick mechanism 62 schematically shown in FIG. 4 and consists here of the lipstick mechanism 62. The refill 14 has a generally cylindrical shape extending mainly along the direction of an axis A14 which coincides with the axis A10 of the device 10 when the device 10 for applying and packaging is assembled.

[0041] Obviously, mechanism 62 receives the stick of cosmetic B. Mechanism 62 comprises, for example, a base plate 64, a cup 66, and a neck 68. Mechanism 62 can move between a storage position where the cup 66, in which the stick of cosmetic B is fixed to the neck 68, closes the device 10 for applying and packaging using the cap 16 shown in FIG. 4, and a deployment position where the stick of cosmetic B protrudes from the neck 68 for applying the cosmetic. In this type of lipstick mechanism, generally, the stick of cosmetic B moves between its two positions by pivoting the neck 68 relative to the base plate 64 of mechanism 14. The base plate 64 may have a spiral groove (not shown) for guiding at least one protrusion integral with the cup 66 that is rotated relative to the base plate 64 via the neck 68.

[0042] It may be noted that the base plate 64 has no longitudinal ridges on its outer surface parallel to the axis A14 of the refill 14. However, the base plate 64 forms notches 70 that are complementary to the cross-section of the engagement relief 40. Thus, the base plate 64 is integral with the case 12 in rotation about the axis A14 of the refill 14 by receiving the engagement relief 40 in the complementary notches 70. Thus, it is possible to control the lipstick mechanism 62 by turning the neck 68 relative to the base 15 of the case 12. Other means of making the base plate 64 and the base 15 of the case 12 integral in rotation are available to those skilled in the art. For example, the base plate 64 may have, on its outer surface, a groove extending parallel to the axis A14 of the refill 14 and receiving a complementary ridge formed on the radially inner surface of an insert 32 that is integral in rotation with the outer shell 18 of the base 15.

[0043] Also, the base plate 64 has a groove 72 in its outer contour, which is circular here.

[0044] The case 12 for cosmetic dispensing and the packaging device 10 further comprise a cap 16 in the form of a cover 16 here.

[0045] Cover 16 has a generally cylindrical shape that extends mainly along the direction of axis A16, which coincides with axis A10 when the device 10 for coating and packaging is assembled.

[0046] Cover 16 includes an outer shell 74. Here, the outer shell 74 is cylindrical along the axis A16 of the cover 16. Here, the outer shell 74 has an elliptical cross-section that is substantially the same as the cross-section of the outer shell 18 of the case 12.

[0047] The outer shell 74 of the cover 16 can be made from any material that comes to mind for those skilled in the art to form the casing of the device 10 for applying and packaging cosmetics in the form of a stick. In particular, it can be made of glass, specifically aluminum, or a metal such as an aluminum alloy like Zamak, or ceramics, porcelain, crystal, especially plastics such as polymethyl methacrylate, polystyrene, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, ionomer resins such as ethylene vinyl copolymer known under the trade name Surlyn, or wood, or urea formaldehyde.

[0048] Preferably, the outer shell 74 of the cover 16 is made of the same material as the outer shell 18 of the base 15 of the case 12.

[0049] On the radially inner surface, the outer shell 74 here has a rib portion 76. Here, the rib portion 76 is straight and parallel to the axis A16 of the cover 16. The rib portion 76 here extends only over a part of the height of the outer shell 74 and is oriented along the direction of the axis A16 of the cover 16. For example, the rib portion 76 extends over at least two-thirds of the height of the outer shell 74, preferably over at least three-quarters of the height of the outer shell 74.

[0050] In addition, the cover 16 includes a capsule 78 fixed to one end of the outer shell 74. Thus, the capsule 78 closes one end in the longitudinal direction of the cylindrical outer shell 74. The capsule 78 may have a base plate 80 intended to form the longitudinal end of the coating and packaging device 10 as shown. Therefore, one surface of the base plate 80 of the capsule 78, which is oriented outside the outer shell 74, may include words or decorations directly formed on the base plate 80 or attached to this base plate 80 of the capsule 78. Here, the capsule 78 is applied to the outer shell 74. However, alternatively, the capsule 78 may be integral with the outer shell 74.

[0051] The capsule 78 further includes a crown portion 82 protruding from the base plate 80. Here, the crown portion 82 generally has a cylindrical shape along the axis A16 of the cover 16. The crown portion 82 generally has a cross-section in the shape of an ellipse. The crown portion 82 is substantially complementary to the inner region of the outer shell 74. Thus, the crown portion 82 can be fastened to the outer shell 74. Here, the crown portion 82 has a notch 84 on its radially outer surface, and one of the notches 84 receives a rib portion 76 on the radially inner surface of the outer shell 74. The reception of the rib portion 76 of the outer shell 74 in a specific notch 84 also enables a foolproof with respect to the orientation of the capsule 78 relative to the outer shell 74.

[0052] The cover 16 further includes an insert 86 received in the outer shell 74. For this purpose, the insert 86 has a general shape substantially complementary to the shape of the outer shell 74. Specifically, in the example shown, the insert 86 has a cylindrical portion 88 complementary to the cross-section of the outer shell 74. A groove 90 is on the radially outer surface of the cylindrical portion 88 of the insert 86. The groove 90 is substantially linear and parallel to the axis A16 of the cover 16. Here, one of the grooves 90 receives the rib portion 76 on the radially inner surface of the outer shell 74. Thus, the rib portion 76 and the groove 90 that receives the rib portion 76 form a foolproof for the assembly of the insert 86 into the outer shell 74 of the cover 16, and thus, the insert 86 is assembled in a given orientation relative to the outer shell 74.

[0053] Also, here, the insert 86 projects in the direction of the axis A16 of the cover 16 with respect to the cylindrical portion 88, and forms two claws 92 that extend at an extension of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 88. However, the insert 86, specifically the cylindrical portion 88, forms a flange 91 at the base of the claws 92. A protrusion 93 projects from the flange 91 in the direction of the axis A16 of the cover.

[0054] Near the base, the insert 86 receives a counterweight 94. The counterweight 94 can better distribute the weight of the device 10 for coating and packaging.

[0055] The cover 16 further includes a magnet 95 according to the illustrated example. The magnet 95 is received in contact with the flange 91 of the insert 86, for example, between the two claws 92 of the insert 86. The magnet 95 also includes a notch for receiving the protrusion 93 of the insert 86 in the illustrated example. This ensures the orientation of the magnet 95 with respect to the insert 86, and thus the orientation of the magnet 95 with respect to the cover 16. Therefore, when the magnet 95 is a quadrupole magnet, the fixing of the cover 16 to the base 15 of the case 12 can be performed only in a single orientation of the cover 16 around the axis A10 of the device 10 for coating and packaging or in several predetermined orientations with respect to the base 15 of the case 12.

[0056] Finally, the cover 16 includes a sleeve 96. The sleeve 96 is made of metal here. The sleeve 96 includes a cylindrical portion 97 with a circular cross-section, a first annular portion 98 that projects radially outward with respect to the cylindrical portion 97 at the first end of the cylindrical portion 97, and a second annular portion 99 that projects radially inward with respect to the cylindrical portion 97 at the second end of the cylindrical portion 97. The first annular portion 98 defines a housing for receiving the magnet 95 together with the outer shell 74, the insert 86, specifically the cylindrical portion 88 of the insert 86, and the cylindrical portion 97 of the sleeve 96.

[0057] The device 10 for applying and packaging cosmetics can be assembled as follows.

[0058] First, as shown in FIG. 7, the refill 14 is inserted into the base 15 of the case 12 until the protruding relief 60 of each retaining claw 56 of the sleeve 46 of the case 12 is received in the groove 72 of the base plate 64 of the refill 14. In other words, the refill 14 is snap-fitted into the sleeve 46 of the base 15 of the case 12. In this way, while it can be easily disassembled, a firm fixation of the refill 14 in the case 12, specifically in the base 15 of the case 12, is obtained which suppresses the risk of damage to the case 12, specifically to the sleeve 46 of the base 15 of the case 12. At the same time, the score 70 engages with the engagement relief 40.

[0059] As can be seen in FIG. 6, specifically, the snap fit between the retaining claw 56 and the groove 72 takes place near one end of the outer shell 18 opposite the end where the refill 14 is inserted into the base 15 of the case 12, for example, at a distance of less than 50%, preferably less than 20%, even more preferably less than 10% of the height of the outer shell 18 from this one end of the outer shell 18. Thus, the friction that can occur when the refill 14 is inserted into the case 12 occurs only at the insertion end of the refill 14.

[0060] Thus, the base 15 of the case 12 can be closed using the cover 16, which is fixed at the base 15 of the case 12 by the cooperation of the magnets 42, 95. In this position, a portion of the refill 14 protruding from the base 15 of the case 12 is received in a housing defined by the sleeve 96 in the cover 16. Of course, other means for fixing the cover 16 to the base 15 of the case 12 are available to those skilled in the art. Specifically, the cover 16 may be screwed or snap-fitted to the base 15 of the case 12.

[0061] Also, here the cover 16 is only fixed to the base 15 of the case 12, but alternatively or additionally, the cover 16 may be fixed to the refill 14. The cover 16 can be fixed to the refill 14 by any means available to those skilled in the art.

[0062] In the following, a second example of an apparatus 100 for applying and packaging cosmetics will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 to 10.

[0063] According to this second example, the apparatus 100 for applying and packaging cosmetics is more specifically adapted for packaging and applying cosmetics in the form of a liquid, paste, or powder, using an application device such as a cosmetic brush, a brush, or preferably a flocked plastic application element. Such cosmetics are, for example, gloss, nail polish, mascara, or foundation.

[0064] The apparatus 100 for applying and packaging also comprises a case 12 and a refill 14 received in the case 12. The case 12 also comprises a base 15 and a cap 16 which is in the form of a cover here.

[0065] Here, the base 15 of the case 12 comprises an outer shell 18 and a capsule 22 closing one end of the outer shell 18. Alternatively, the outer shell 18 and the capsule 22 are integral.

[0066] Here, the cover 16 essentially comprises an outer shell 74 generally in the form of a cylinder. According to the example shown, the outer shell 74 is closed at one end by a capsule 78. However, alternatively, the outer shell 74 and the capsule 78 are integral.

[0067] Here, the refill 14 comprises a container 102 for the cosmetics. The container 102 is cylindrical here and preferably has a circular cross-section. The container 102 forms a ring portion 104 here for receiving a rotating ring 106. The ring portion 104 has a thread on its radially outer surface.

[0068] As can be seen more specifically in FIG. 9, the refill 14 here comprises a metal sleeve 46 that is fixed to the container 102. For example, the sleeve 46 is received in a recess 108 in the wall of the container 102. Here, the sleeve 46 is fixed near one longitudinal end of the container 102, that is, it is first introduced into the outer shell 18 when the refill 14 is inserted at the base 15 of the case 12. Such an assembly is particularly aesthetically pleasing, and the sleeve 46, once assembled, is not at all or hardly visible in the coating and packaging apparatus 100. The sleeve 46 has the same snap-fit relief 54 as the sleeve 46 described with respect to the first example of the coating and packaging apparatus 10. Here, the projecting relief 60 in the claw 56 of each snap-fit relief 54 is received in a groove 72 formed in the radially inner surface of the outer shell 18 of the base 15 of the case 12. Thus, the container 102 of the refill 14 is fixed to the base 15 of the case 12 by snap-fit. According to a variant not shown, the groove 72 may be formed in an insert fixed inside the outer shell 18 of the base 15 of the case 12.

[0069] Also, according to the illustrated example, the refill 14 includes a cosmetic applicator 110 having an application element 112, a head 114, and a handle 116 connecting the application element 112 to the head 114. The applicator 110 further includes a sleeve 46 fixed to the head 114 near one longitudinal end of the head 114, specifically in the recess 118. Here, the sleeve 46 is fixed near one longitudinal end of the head 114, that is, when the refill 14 is inserted into the cover 16, it is first introduced into the outer shell 74. Such an assembly is particularly aesthetically pleasing, and the sleeve 46, when assembled, is not visible at all or hardly visible in the device 100 for applying and packaging. The sleeve 46 has the same snap-fit relief 54 as the sleeve 46 described with respect to the first example of the device 10 for applying and packaging. Here, the protruding relief 60 at the claw 56 of each snap-fit relief 54 is received in a groove 72 formed on the radially inner surface of the outer shell 74 of the cover 16. Thus, the applicator 110 of the refill 14 is fixed to the cover 16 of the case 12 by snap-fit. According to a variation not shown, the groove 72 may be formed in an insert fixed inside the outer shell 74.

[0070] Furthermore, it is noted that the head 114 has female threads so that the cover 16 can be fixed to the container 102 of the refill 14 received in the base 15 of the case 12. Specifically, according to the illustrated example, the cover 16 is fixed to the head 114 that is screwed onto the container 102 of the refill 14 itself, and the container 102 is fixed to the base 15 of the case 12. Alternatively, the female threads may be present on an insert fixed inside the outer shell 74 of the cover 16 or on the outer shell 74 of the cover 16. Still other alternatives, specifically, the cover 16, or the head 114 of the applicator 110, is fixed to the base 15 of the case 12.

[0071] Preferably, the head 114 of the application device 110 has a plugging function in that it is adapted to close or plug the container 102, particularly when the cover 16 is fixed to the container 102 of the refill 14. The handle 116 is configured such that the application element 112 is inserted into the container 102 when the cover 16 is fixed to the container 102. Thus, in this closed position of the application and packaging device 100, the handle 116 traverses a rotary ring 106 that is fixed to the annular portion 104 of the container 102. When the application element 112 is taken out of the container 102, the handle 116 and, by extension, the application element 112, traverse the rotary ring 106, thereby enabling the removal of any excess cosmetics on the application element 112. Therefore, the cover 16 acts as a gripping device that enables the accurate application of cosmetics by using the application element 112.

[0072] Also, in this second example, the snap - fit relief 54 enables a secure fixation of the container 102 and the head 114 of the refill 14 to each of the case 12 and the cover 16, particularly to the base 15 of the case 12. However, the disassembly of these snap - fits remains easy so that the refill 14 can be removed from the case 12 if necessary.

[0073] In the example of FIG. 8, the snap - fit relief 54 is formed by a sleeve 46 included in the refill 14. However, alternatively, the sleeve 46 may be included in the case 12, specifically, in the base 15 of the case 12 and / or in the cover 16.

[0074] The present invention is not limited to the examples described and, conversely, may have numerous variations available to those skilled in the art.

[0075] Thus, in each of the illustrated examples, the pawl 56 of the snap-fit relief 54 may be in the case 12 and may cooperate with the groove 72 in the refill 14. However, alternatively, the pawl 56 of the snap-fit relief 54 may be in the refill 14 and cooperate with the groove 72 formed in the case 12.

[0076] Furthermore, instead of the groove 72, other snap-fit reliefs adapted to cooperate with the pawl 56 and the protruding relief 60 for snap-fitting are available to those skilled in the art. Specifically, raised portions, such as one or more protrusions in the form of hooks, or beads, can be mentioned.

[0077] Also, in the described examples, the snap-fit relief 54 is formed each time by the sleeve 46 applied in the case 12 or the refill 14. However, alternatively, the snap-fit relief 54 may be directly formed by the outer shells 18, 74 of the base or the cap 16 of the case, especially when the outer shells 18, 74 are made of metal.

[0078] Furthermore, the applying and packaging device may comprise other applying devices not already described. Specifically, the applying and packaging device may comprise a device for dispensing cosmetics, such as a pipette or a pump, for example.

Explanation of reference numerals

[0079] 10 Device for applying and packaging cosmetics 12 Case 14 Refill 15 Base 16 Cap, cover 18 Outer shell 20 Raised portion 22 Capsule 24 Base plate 26 Crown 28 Score mark 30 Score mark 32 Insertion body 34 Cylindrical portion 35 Flange 36 Groove 37 Projection 38 Claw 40 Engagement Relief 41 Cylindrical Base 42 Magnet 44 Notch 46 Sleeve 48 Cylindrical Portion 50 First Annular Portion 52 Second Annular Portion 54 Snap-Fit Relief 56 Retaining Claw 58 Slot 60 Relief, Protrusion 62 Lipstick Mechanism 64 Base Plate 66 Cup 68 Head 70 Score 72 Groove 74 Outer Shell 76 Ridge Portion 78 Capsule 80 Base Plate 82 Crown 84 Score 86 Insertion Body 88 Cylindrical Portion 90 Groove 91 Flange 92 Claw 93 Projection 94 Counterweight 95 Magnet 96 Sleeve 98 First Annular Portion 99 Second Annular Portion 100 Device for Applying and Packaging Cosmetics 102 Container 104 Ring Portion 106 Rotating Ring 108 Recess 110 Application Device 112 Application Element 114 Head 116 Shank 118 Recess Axis of extension of device 10 Axis of extension of base 15 Axis of refill 14 B Cosmetics

Claims

**Claim 1** An apparatus (10; 100) for applying and packaging at least one cosmetic product, comprising: a case (12) defining a housing and having at least one first snap-fit relief (54; 72); a refill (14) for the cosmetic product, intended to be at least partially received within the housing defined by the case (12), the refill (14) having a second snap-fit relief (72; 84); wherein one of the at least one first snap-fit relief (54; 72) and the at least one second snap-fit relief (72; 54) is made of metal and comprises at least one retaining claw (56) extending between at least two longitudinal blind slots (58), the retaining claw (56) being elastically deformable. The apparatus (10; 100) for applying and packaging the cosmetic product. **Claim 2** The apparatus for applying and packaging a cosmetic product according to claim 1, wherein the retaining claw (54) and the two longitudinal blind slots (58) are on a cylindrical surface of a metal sleeve (46). **Claim 3** The apparatus for applying and packaging a cosmetic product according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the retaining claw (54) comprises a protruding relief (60). **Claim 4** The apparatus for applying and packaging a cosmetic product according to claim 3, wherein the protruding relief (60) extends across the entire width of the claw (56). **Claim 5** The other of the at least one first snap-fit relief (54) and the at least one second snap-fit relief (72) is a groove (72), optionally, in particular, a groove (72) for receiving the protruding relief (60) of the retaining claw (54), a rib, and at least one, preferably a plurality of protrusions The apparatus for applying and packaging a cosmetic product according to claim 3 or 4, comprising one of them. **Claim 6** The apparatus for applying and packaging a cosmetic product according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the case (12) mainly extends along an axis (A10), the two slots (58) are parallel to the axis (A10), and the protruding relief (60) extends along a direction perpendicular to the axis (A10) optionally. **Claim 7** The case (12) comprises an outer shell (18, 74) for receiving a metal sleeve (46), and the fastening claws (56) and the two longitudinal blind slots (58) are in the metal sleeve (46), and the device for applying and packaging cosmetics according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The case (12) comprises a base (15), and the device for applying and packaging cosmetics according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The base (15) comprises an outer shell (18) for receiving a metal sleeve (46), and the fastening claws (56) and the two longitudinal blind slots (58) are in the base (15) in the metal sleeve (46), and the device for applying and packaging cosmetics according to claim 7 or 8.

10. The device further comprises a cap (16) for closing the base (15), and the cap (16) is removably fixed to the case (12) preferably by means such as magnetization, snap fit, or screwing, and the device for applying and packaging cosmetics according to claim 8 or 9.

11. The cap (16) comprises an outer shell (74) for receiving a metal sleeve (46), the metal sleeve (46) forms fastening claws (56), and the two longitudinal blind slots (58) are in the metal sleeve (46) in the cap (16) for fixing the refill (14) within the cap (16), and the device for applying and packaging according to claim 10.

12. The refill (14) comprises a sleeve (46) forming fastening claws (56) extending between the two longitudinal blind slots for fixing the refill (14) to the base (15) of the case (12) or, if necessary, to the cap (16), and the device for applying and packaging according to any one of claims 1 to 6, 8, or 10.

13. The device for applying and packaging according to any one of claims 1 to 12 preferably comprises an application device (110) included in the refill (14).

14. The application device comprises means for dispensing cosmetics, in particular a pipette or a pump, and the device for applying and packaging cosmetics according to claim 13.

15. The dispensing means is a lipstick mechanism (62) for receiving the lipstick pellets, the apparatus for applying and packaging cosmetics according to claim 14.

16. The lipstick mechanism (62) is adapted to be driven in rotation by a second engagement relief (40) integral with the base (15) of the case (12) for moving the lipstick pellets within the lipstick mechanism (62) between at least one first storage position and at least one second lipstick application position, the apparatus for applying and packaging cosmetics according to claim 15.

17. The first engagement relief (70) is on the front face of the base plate (64) of the lipstick mechanism (62) and is formed by a notch that is free in rotation with respect to the lipstick neck, the apparatus for applying and packaging cosmetics according to claim 16.

18. The refill (14) of the cosmetics comprises a container (102) of the cosmetics, the apparatus for applying and packaging cosmetics according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

19. The refill (14) of the cosmetics comprises a stopper (114) integral with the application element (112) of the cosmetics, the stopper (114) being preferably adapted to be fixed to the container (102) for closing the container (102), and the application element (112) being still preferably in the container (102) when the stopper (114) closes the container (102), the apparatus for applying and packaging cosmetics according to claim 18.

20. The cap (16) is preferably fixed to the stopper (114) in a removable manner, the apparatus for applying and packaging according to claim 10 or 11 combined with claim 19.

21. The cap (16) snap-fits onto a metal sleeve (46) fixed to the stopper (114), the metal sleeve (46) having at least one snap-fit relief (54) with retaining claws (56) extending between two longitudinal blind slots (58), the apparatus for applying and packaging according to claim 20.

22. The application element (112) is one of a brush, possibly a plastic with a flocked tip, a cosmetic brush, the apparatus for applying and packaging according to any one of claims 19 to 21.

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