Apparatus and method for filling multicolored cosmetics

Abstract

The present invention provides a filling apparatus for multicolor cosmetics that can produce multicolor cosmetics having a gradient pattern by filling a slurry-like cosmetic into a dish-shaped container. [Solution] The multi-color cosmetic filling device 1 includes a first flow path (e.g., static mixer 31A) that flows a first cosmetic (e.g., red) and a second cosmetic of a different color from the first cosmetic (e.g., white) in a first ratio, a second flow path (e.g., static mixer 31G) arranged in parallel with the first flow path that flows the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic in a second ratio different from the first ratio, and a discharge unit 4 that discharges a combined cosmetic, formed by combining the first flowing cosmetic flowing through the first flow path and the second flowing cosmetic flowing through the second flow path, onto a cosmetic tray 10.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a filling device for multi-color cosmetics for filling a dish-shaped container with cosmetics of multiple colors and a filling method thereof.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a filling device for multi-color cosmetics for filling a dish-shaped container with cosmetics of multiple colors is known. For example, the powder solid cosmetic molding device described in Patent Document 1 includes an upper chamber of a hopper having two compartments partitioned by a partition plate, and a lower chamber of the hopper having a number of mixing spaces arranged in parallel along a predetermined direction by being partitioned by a number of partition plates. Further, the partition plate partitioning the upper chamber is arranged so as to cross obliquely with respect to the parallel arrangement direction of the mixing spaces.

[0003] When molding a powder solid cosmetic with the powder solid cosmetic molding device described in Patent Document 1, powder cosmetics of different colors are put into each compartment of the upper chamber, and the powder cosmetics are dropped from this upper chamber into the lower chamber of the hopper partitioned into a number of mixing spaces. Here, as described above, since the partition plate partitioning the upper chamber is arranged so as to cross obliquely with respect to the parallel arrangement direction of the mixing spaces, the ratio of the powder cosmetics of different colors in each mixing space gradually changes from one end side to the other end side in the parallel arrangement direction of each mixing space. Therefore, the powder solid cosmetic molding device described in Patent Document 1 can mold a powder solid cosmetic having a gradation pattern.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, the powder solid cosmetic molding apparatus described in Reference 1 is an apparatus for molding powder solid cosmetic, and each mixing space is merely a compartment in the lower chamber of the hopper divided by numerous partition plates. Therefore, when slurry-like cosmetic is introduced, it leaks out of the mixing space, and there is a problem that it cannot be applied to a multi-color cosmetic filling apparatus that fills dish-shaped containers with slurry-like cosmetic of multiple colors.

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide a multi-color cosmetic filling apparatus and a filling method that can produce a multi-color cosmetic having a gradient pattern by filling a slurry-like cosmetic into a dish-shaped container. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The multi-color cosmetic filling apparatus of the present invention is a multi-color cosmetic filling apparatus for filling a slurry-like cosmetic into a dish-shaped container, and is characterized by comprising: a first flow path for circulating a first cosmetic and a second cosmetic of a different color from the first cosmetic in a first ratio; a second flow path arranged in parallel with the first flow path for circulating the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic in a second ratio different from the first ratio; and a discharge means for discharging a combined cosmetic into the container, which is a mixture of the first circulating cosmetic circulating in the first flow path and the second circulating cosmetic circulating in the second flow path.

[0008] With this configuration, the multi-color cosmetic filling device includes a first flow path through which a first cosmetic and a second cosmetic are circulated in a first ratio, and a second flow path arranged parallel to the first flow path, through which the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic are circulated in a second ratio different from the first ratio. The dispensing means dispenses a combined cosmetic into a container, which is a mixture of the first circulating cosmetic circulating in the first flow path and the second circulating cosmetic circulating in the second flow path. For example, if the first cosmetic is red and the second cosmetic is white, by filling a dish-shaped container with the slurry-like cosmetic, it is possible to produce a multi-color cosmetic having a gradient pattern that changes from dark pink (e.g., the first circulating cosmetic) to light pink (e.g., the second circulating cosmetic) along the direction in which the first and second flow paths are arranged parallel to each other.

[0009] In the present invention, it is preferable to have a first inflow means for introducing a first cosmetic and a second cosmetic into a first flow path in a first ratio, and a second inflow means for introducing the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic into a second flow path in a second ratio.

[0010] With this configuration, the multi-color cosmetic filling device includes a first inflow means for introducing the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic into the first channel at a first ratio, and a second inflow means for introducing the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic into the second channel at a second ratio. Since the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic are introduced into the first channel and the second channel through separate paths, the ratios of the first and second cosmetic can be reliably set, compared to, for example, the case where the ratios of the first and second cosmetic are set using a partition plate, and variations in the gradient pattern can be reduced.

[0011] In the present invention, it is preferable that the first flow path has a first mixing means for mixing a first flowable cosmetic, and the second flow path has a second mixing means for mixing a second flowable cosmetic.

[0012] With this configuration, the first flow path has a first mixing means for mixing the first flowable cosmetic, and the second flow path has a second mixing means for mixing the second flowable cosmetic. As a result, the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic can be reliably mixed in each flow path, and variations in the gradient pattern can be reduced.

[0013] In the present invention, a downstream channel is provided downstream of the first channel and the second channel, and is positioned to allow both the first and second flowing cosmetic to flow into it. The downstream channel has a downstream mixing means for mixing the downstream flowing cosmetic flowing through this downstream channel, and the dispensing means preferably dispenses a combined cosmetic, which is a mixture of the first flowing cosmetic, the second flowing cosmetic, and the downstream flowing cosmetic, into a container.

[0014] With this configuration, the multi-color cosmetic filling device is provided downstream of the first and second flow channels and includes a downstream flow channel located at a position to allow both the first and second flow channels to flow in. The downstream flow channel has a downstream mixing means for mixing the downstream flow channel cosmetic flowing through it. Therefore, the ratio of the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic in the downstream flow channel becomes an intermediate ratio between the first and second ratios. Consequently, the multi-color cosmetic filling device can produce a multi-color cosmetic having a gradient pattern that gradually changes along the parallel direction of the first and second flow channels, in the order of the first flow cosmetic, the downstream flow cosmetic, and the second flow cosmetic.

[0015] In the present invention, a third flow path is provided, which is arranged in a triangular shape with respect to the first and second flow paths, and which flows the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic in a third ratio that is greater than the first ratio and less than the second ratio. The third flow path has a third mixing means for mixing the third flowing cosmetic that flows through this third flow path, and the dispensing means preferably dispenses a combined cosmetic, which is a mixture of the first flowing cosmetic, the second flowing cosmetic, and the third flowing cosmetic, into a container.

[0016] With this configuration, the multi-color cosmetic filling device is arranged in a triangular shape with respect to the first and second flow paths, and includes a third flow path that flows the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic in a third ratio greater than the first ratio and less than the second ratio, and the third flow path has a third mixing means for mixing the third flowing cosmetic flowing through this third flow path. Therefore, by filling a dish-shaped container with slurry-like cosmetic, it is possible to produce a multi-color cosmetic having a gradient pattern in which the first flowing cosmetic, the third flowing cosmetic, and the second flowing cosmetic gradually change along the direction in which the first and second flow paths are arranged side by side.

[0017] In the present invention, it is preferable that the dispensing means moves along a direction perpendicular to the parallel arrangement of the first and second flow paths and parallel to the bottom surface of the container, while dispensing a combined cosmetic product into the container, which is formed by combining each flow cosmetic product.

[0018] With this configuration, the dispensing means moves along a direction perpendicular to the parallel arrangement of the first and second flow paths and parallel to the bottom surface of the container, and dispenses a combined cosmetic into the container by merging each of the flowing cosmetic components. Therefore, the multi-color cosmetic filling device can produce a multi-color cosmetic having a gradient pattern in which each of the flowing cosmetic components extends along a direction perpendicular to the parallel arrangement of the first and second flow paths and parallel to the bottom surface of the container by filling a dish-shaped container with slurry-like cosmetic components.

[0019] The present invention relates to a method for filling a multicolor cosmetic into a dish-shaped container, and is characterized by comprising a filling step of discharging a combined cosmetic into the container, which is obtained by combining a first circulating cosmetic flowing through a first channel through which a first cosmetic and a second cosmetic of a different color from the first cosmetic flow in a first ratio, and a second circulating cosmetic flowing through a second channel through which the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic flow in a second ratio different from the first ratio.

[0020] According to such a configuration, the method for filling a multicolored cosmetic includes a filling step of discharging a combined cosmetic, which is obtained by merging a first flowing cosmetic flowing through a first flow path that distributes the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic at a first ratio, and a second flowing cosmetic flowing through a second flow path that distributes the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic at a second ratio different from the first ratio, into a container. For example, if the first cosmetic is red and the second cosmetic is white, by filling a slurry-like cosmetic into a dish-shaped container, a multicolored cosmetic having a gradation pattern that changes from a dark pink color (e.g., the first flowing cosmetic) to a light pink color (e.g., the second flowing cosmetic) along the parallel arrangement direction of the first flow path and the second flow path can be manufactured.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] [Figure 1] Cross-sectional view showing a filling device for a multicolored cosmetic according to the first embodiment of the present invention [Figure 2] Cross-sectional view of the filling device for a multicolored cosmetic as seen from the upper surface side [Figure 3] Conceptual diagram showing a state in which a slurry-like cosmetic is supplied to each supply pipe [Figure 4] Diagram showing a state before starting the filling of a slurry-like cosmetic with a filling device for a multicolored cosmetic [Figure 5] Diagram showing a state after starting the filling of a slurry-like cosmetic with a filling device for a multicolored cosmetic [Figure 6] Diagram showing an example of a combined cosmetic subjected to pressing treatment [Figure 7] Cross-sectional view showing a filling device for a multicolored cosmetic according to the second embodiment of the present invention [Figure 8] Conceptual diagram showing a state in which a slurry-like cosmetic is supplied to each supply pipe [Figure 9] Cross-sectional view of the filling device for a multicolored cosmetic according to the second embodiment of the present invention as seen from the upper surface side

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0022] 〔First Embodiment〕 Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a multi-color cosmetic filling apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In Figure 1, the vertically upward direction is defined as the +Z axis, and the two axes perpendicular to this Z axis are described as the X and Y axes. The same applies to the following drawings.

[0023] As shown in Figure 1, the multi-color cosmetic filling device 1 is a device that fills a cosmetic dish 10 with a slurry-like cosmetic of multiple colors. The cosmetic dish 10 is a dish-shaped container having a roughly square base and four sides that rise from this base. Here, the slurry-type cosmetic is a liquid mixture of a cosmetic base, such as a solid powder cosmetic like foundation, face powder, or eyeshadow, and a volatile solvent such as ethanol, water, liquid paraffin, isoparaffin, or isopropyl alcohol.

[0024] The multi-color cosmetic filling device 1 comprises a supply unit 2 that supplies slurry-like cosmetic to the multi-color cosmetic filling device 1, a distribution unit 3 attached to the -Z-axis side of the supply unit 2 and for circulating the slurry-like cosmetic, and a discharge unit 4 attached to the -Z-axis side of the distribution unit 3 and for discharging the slurry-like cosmetic to the cosmetic tray 10.

[0025] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a multi-color cosmetic filling device, seen from above. Specifically, Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of section AA in Figure 1. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the supply unit 2 is a unit that has an opening on its bottom surface and is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape overall. This supply unit 2 includes a first supply pipe 21 provided on the upper surface on the -X axis side, a second supply pipe 22 provided on the upper surface on the +X axis side, and a partition plate 23 that is fixed to the supply unit 2 and partitions the internal space of the supply unit 2.

[0026] The first supply pipe 21 supplies a slurry-like first cosmetic (e.g., red) supplied from a pump (not shown), and the second supply pipe 22 supplies a slurry-like second cosmetic (e.g., white) of a different color from the first cosmetic supplied from a pump (not shown).

[0027] Here, "cosmetics of different colors" refers to cosmetics that can be distinguished from each other based on human vision, and includes not only cosmetics with different brightness, saturation, and hue, but also cosmetics of the same color but with different levels of gloss, such as those with added pearl and those without.

[0028] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the distribution unit 3 is a unit formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape overall, with openings on its top and bottom surfaces. This distribution unit 3 is equipped with seven static mixers 31 (31A to 31G) arranged along the X-axis inside. Each static mixer 31 has multiple elements 311 along the Z-axis direction, as shown in Figure 1. These elements 311 are shaped like twisted rectangular plates, and each static mixer 31 has a structure in which elements 311 with different twist directions are arranged alternately. Therefore, the slurry-like cosmetic material passing through the inside of the static mixer 31 is stirred and mixed as it passes through each element 311.

[0029] Here, as shown in Figure 2, the partition plate 23 of the supply unit 2 divides the internal space of the supply unit 2 by tilting from the +Y axis side to the -Y axis side as it moves toward the +X axis side.

[0030] As shown in Figure 1, the discharge unit 4 is a unit formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape overall, with openings on its top and bottom surfaces. This discharge unit 4 is equipped with a funnel-shaped internal space 41 that combines the flowing cosmetic materials flowing through each static mixer 31 to form a combined cosmetic material, and a discharge port 42 that discharges the combined cosmetic material that has been combined in the internal space 41. The following describes a method for filling a cosmetic tray 10 with a multi-color cosmetic filling device 1, in which multiple colors of slurry-like cosmetic materials are filled into the cosmetic tray 10.

[0031] First, the multi-color cosmetic filling device 1 supplies a slurry-like first cosmetic (e.g., red) supplied from a pump (not shown) to a first supply pipe 21, and a slurry-like second cosmetic (e.g., white) of a different color from the first cosmetic supplied from the pump (not shown) to a second supply pipe 22.

[0032] Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram showing the state in which a slurry-like cosmetic is supplied to each supply pipe. The first cosmetic product supplied to the first supply pipe 21 flows into the static mixer 31 (31A-31G) as shown by arrow R in Figure 3 (inflow step). Similarly, the second cosmetic product supplied to the second supply pipe 22 flows into the static mixer 31 (31A-31G) as shown by arrow W in Figure 3 (inflow step). As mentioned above, the partition plate 23 of the supply unit 2 divides the internal space of the supply unit 2 by tilting from the +Y axis side to the -Y axis side as it moves toward the +X axis side. For this reason, the static mixer 31A located furthest toward the -X axis side is configured to allow a large amount of the first cosmetic material to flow in and a small amount of the second cosmetic material to flow in. Similarly, the static mixer 31G located furthest toward the +X axis side is configured to allow a small amount of the first cosmetic material to flow in and a large amount of the second cosmetic material to flow in.

[0033] Specifically, in this embodiment, static mixer 31A introduces the first cosmetic at a ratio of 95% and the second cosmetic at a ratio of 5%. Static mixer 31B introduces the first cosmetic at a ratio of 80% and the second cosmetic at a ratio of 20%. Static mixer 31C introduces the first cosmetic at a ratio of 65% and the second cosmetic at a ratio of 35%. Static mixer 31D introduces the first cosmetic at a ratio of 50% and the second cosmetic at a ratio of 50%. Static mixer 31E introduces the first cosmetic at a ratio of 35% and the second cosmetic at a ratio of 65%. Static mixer 31F introduces the first cosmetic at a ratio of 20% and the second cosmetic at a ratio of 80%. The Static Mixer 31G introduces the first cosmetic product at a ratio of 5% and the second cosmetic product at a ratio of 95%.

[0034] Next, the distribution unit 3 flows into each static mixer 31 and mixes the distributed cosmetic in each static mixer 31 (mixing step). Thus, in this embodiment, the multi-color cosmetic filling device 1 includes a first flow path (e.g., static mixer 31A) for circulating a first cosmetic and a second cosmetic of a different color from the first cosmetic in a first ratio, and a second flow path (e.g., static mixer 31G) arranged in parallel with the first flow path for circulating the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic in a second ratio different from the first ratio. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first flow path has a first mixing means (for example, an element 311 of the static mixer 31A) for mixing the first flowable cosmetic (for example, the flowable cosmetic that flows through the static mixer 31A) flowing through the first flow path, and the second flow path has a second mixing means (for example, an element 311 of the static mixer 31G) for mixing the second flowable cosmetic (for example, the flowable cosmetic that flows through the static mixer 31G) flowing through the second flow path.

[0035] Then, as shown by arrow C in Figure 3, the discharge unit 4 combines the flowing cosmetic materials from each static mixer 31 and discharges them as a combined cosmetic material into the cosmetic tray 10, thereby filling the cosmetic tray 10 with a slurry-like cosmetic material (filling step). Thus, in this embodiment, the discharge unit 4 functions as a discharge means that discharges a combined cosmetic product, which is a mixture of the first circulating cosmetic product flowing through the first flow path and the second circulating cosmetic product flowing through the second flow path, onto the cosmetic tray 10.

[0036] Figure 4 shows the state before filling of slurry-like cosmetics with the multi-color cosmetic filling device. Figure 5 shows the state after filling of slurry-like cosmetics with the multi-color cosmetic filling device has started. In the filling step, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the multi-color cosmetic filling device 1 moves along the Y-axis direction (see arrow direction in the figures) while discharging the combined cosmetic into the cosmetic tray 10. In other words, the discharging unit 4 moves along a direction perpendicular to the parallel arrangement of the first and second flow paths and parallel to the bottom surface of the cosmetic tray 10, while discharging the combined cosmetic, which is the result of combining each flowing cosmetic, into the cosmetic tray 10. In this embodiment, the discharge unit 4 moves along a direction perpendicular to the parallel arrangement of the first and second flow paths and parallel to the bottom surface of the cosmetic tray 10, while discharging a combined cosmetic mixture formed by merging the flowing cosmetic mixtures into the cosmetic tray 10. However, it may move along any direction and in any manner, or it may not move at all.

[0037] Figure 6 shows an example of a combined cosmetic product that has undergone a pressing process. Subsequently, the multi-color cosmetic filling device 1 applies a pressing process to the combined cosmetic filling in the cosmetic tray 10 (pressing step). As shown in Figure 6, the multicolor cosmetic produced by the multicolor cosmetic filling apparatus 1 has a gradient pattern that gradually changes from dark pink to light pink along the direction in which each static mixer 31 is arranged side by side (X-axis direction).

[0038] In this embodiment, the partition plate 23 of the supply unit 2 caused the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic to flow into the first flow path in a first ratio, and the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic to flow into the second flow path in a second ratio. In contrast, a multi-color cosmetic filling device may include a first inflow means for introducing a first cosmetic and a second cosmetic into a first flow path in a first ratio, and a second inflow means for introducing a first cosmetic and a second cosmetic into a second flow path in a second ratio. With this configuration, the multi-color cosmetic filling device introduces the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic into the first and second flow paths through separate routes (e.g., separate pumps). Compared to the case where the ratio of the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic is set using, for example, a partition plate 23, the ratio of the first and second cosmetic can be set reliably, and variations in the gradient pattern can be reduced.

[0039] According to this embodiment, the following actions and effects can be achieved. (1) The multi-color cosmetic filling device 1 includes a first flow path through which the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic are circulated in a first ratio, and a second flow path arranged parallel to the first flow path, through which the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic are circulated in a second ratio different from the first ratio. The discharge unit 4 discharges a combined cosmetic, which is a mixture of the first circulating cosmetic flowing through the first flow path and the second circulating cosmetic flowing through the second flow path, into the cosmetic tray 10. By filling the cosmetic tray 10 with a slurry-like cosmetic, it is possible to produce a multi-color cosmetic having a gradient pattern that changes from dark pink to light pink along the direction in which the first and second flow paths are arranged parallel to each other.

[0040] (2) The first flow path has a first mixing means for mixing the first flow cosmetic, and the second flow path has a second mixing means for mixing the second flow cosmetic. Therefore, the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic can be reliably mixed in each flow path, and variations in the gradient pattern can be reduced. (3) The discharge unit 4 moves along a direction perpendicular to the parallel arrangement of the first and second flow paths and parallel to the bottom surface of the cosmetic tray 10, and discharges a combined cosmetic into the cosmetic tray 10 by merging each of the flowing cosmetic materials. Therefore, the multicolor cosmetic filling device 1 can fill the cosmetic tray 10 with slurry-like cosmetic materials to produce a multicolor cosmetic having a gradient pattern in which each of the flowing cosmetic materials extends along a direction perpendicular to the parallel arrangement of the first and second flow paths and parallel to the bottom surface of the cosmetic tray 10.

[0041] [Second Embodiment] A second embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following explanation, parts that have already been explained will be denoted by the same reference numeral and their explanation will be omitted.

[0042] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a filling apparatus for multicolored cosmetics according to a second embodiment of the present invention. In the first embodiment described above, the multi-color cosmetic filling device 1 comprised a supply unit 2, a distribution unit 3, and a discharge unit 4. In contrast, this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the multi-color cosmetic filling device 1A includes a supply unit 2, a distribution unit 3A, and a discharge unit 4, as shown in Figure 7.

[0043] The distribution unit 3A, like the first embodiment, includes seven static mixers 31 (31A to 31G) arranged inside it along the X-axis. Furthermore, the distribution unit 3A is provided downstream of each static mixer 31 and includes six downstream static mixers 32 (32A to 32F) located at positions that allow both the cosmetic products flowing through two adjacent static mixers 31 on the upstream side to flow into it. Each downstream static mixer 32 has multiple elements 321 along the Z-axis. These elements 321 are shaped like twisted rectangular plates, and each downstream static mixer 32 has a structure in which elements 321 with different twist directions are arranged alternately. Therefore, the slurry-like cosmetic material passing through the inside of the downstream static mixer 32 is stirred and mixed as it passes through each element 321.

[0044] Here, the aforementioned flow unit 3A includes a first direct flow channel 33A formed downstream of the static mixer 31A, and a second direct flow channel 33G formed downstream of the static mixer 31G. The first direct flow channel 33A allows the flowing cosmetic material circulating through the static mixer 31A to flow into the internal space 41 of the discharge unit 4. The second direct flow channel 33G allows the flowing cosmetic material circulating through the static mixer 31G to flow into the internal space 41 of the discharge unit 4. In this embodiment, the first direct flow channel 33A and the second direct flow channel 33G are formed in a tunnel shape, but a static mixer may be provided inside them. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the flow unit 3A is equipped with a first direct flow channel 33A and a second direct flow channel 33G, but it is not required to be equipped with these.

[0045] Figure 8 is a conceptual diagram showing the state in which a slurry-like cosmetic is supplied to each supply pipe. The first cosmetic material supplied to the first supply pipe 21 flows into the static mixer 31 (31A-31G) as shown by arrow R in Figure 8 (inflow step). Similarly, the second cosmetic material supplied to the second supply pipe 22 flows into the static mixer 31 (31A-31G) as shown by arrow W in Figure 8 (inflow step). Next, the distribution unit 3A mixes the circulating cosmetic into each static mixer 31 (mixing step).

[0046] The cosmetic mixture, which has been mixed in the mixing step and flows through each static mixer 31, then flows into the downstream static mixers 32 (32A to 32F) as shown by the arrow RW in Figure 8 (downstream inflow step). Next, the distribution unit 3A mixes the circulating cosmetic material that flows into each downstream static mixer 32 in each downstream static mixer 32 (downstream mixing step).

[0047] Thus, in this embodiment, the downstream static mixer 32 is positioned to receive both the flowing cosmetic materials flowing through the two adjacent static mixers 31 on the upstream side. Therefore, it functions as a downstream flow path (for example, a downstream static mixer 32A) that is located downstream of the first and second flow paths and receives both the first flowing cosmetic material (for example, the flowing cosmetic material flowing through static mixer 31A) and the second flowing cosmetic material (for example, the flowing cosmetic material flowing through static mixer 31B). Furthermore, in this embodiment, the downstream static mixer 32 has a downstream mixing means (for example, an element 321 of the downstream static mixer 32A) for mixing the downstream flowable cosmetic (for example, the flowable cosmetic that flows through the downstream static mixer 32A) that flows through the downstream static mixer 32.

[0048] Then, as shown by arrow C in Figure 8, the discharge unit 4 combines the flowing cosmetic material flowing through the first straight channel 33A, the flowing cosmetic material flowing through the second straight channel 33G, and the flowing cosmetic material flowing through each downstream static mixer 32, and discharges the combined cosmetic material into the cosmetic tray 10, thereby filling the cosmetic tray 10 with a slurry-like cosmetic material (filling step). Thus, in this embodiment, the discharge unit 4 functions as a discharge means for discharging a combined cosmetic mixture, which is a mixture of the first circulating cosmetic mixture, the second circulating cosmetic mixture, and the downstream circulating cosmetic mixture, onto the cosmetic tray 10.

[0049] According to this embodiment, in addition to being able to achieve the same effects and benefits as the first embodiment, the following effects and benefits can also be achieved. (4) The multi-color cosmetic filling device 1A is provided downstream of the first and second flow channels and includes a downstream flow channel provided at a position to allow both the first flow cosmetic and the second flow cosmetic to flow into it. The downstream flow channel has a downstream mixing means for mixing the downstream flow cosmetic flowing through this downstream flow channel. Therefore, the ratio of the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic in the downstream flow cosmetic is an intermediate ratio between the ratio of the first and the ratio of the second. Thus, the multi-color cosmetic filling device 1A can produce a multi-color cosmetic having a gradient pattern that gradually changes in the order of the first flow cosmetic, the downstream flow cosmetic, and the second flow cosmetic along the direction in which the first and second flow channels are arranged side by side, by filling the cosmetic dish 10 with slurry-like cosmetic.

[0050] [Third Embodiment] A third embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view from above of a multi-color cosmetic filling apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention. In the first embodiment described above, the multi-color cosmetic filling device 1 comprised a supply unit 2, a distribution unit 3, and a discharge unit 4. In contrast, this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the multi-color cosmetic filling device 1B includes a supply unit 2B, a distribution unit 3B, and a discharge unit 4, as shown in Figure 9. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the distribution unit 3B taken in the XY plane, looking towards the -Z axis direction.

[0051] The distribution unit 3B is a unit formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape overall, with openings on its top and bottom surfaces. This distribution unit 3B comprises four static mixers 34 (34A to 34D) arranged along the X-axis inside, and three static mixers 35 (35A to 35C) arranged along the X-axis inside, and offset in the +Y-axis direction from the parallel arrangement of the static mixers 34. Each static mixer 34, 35, similar to the first embodiment, has multiple elements 341, 351 along the Z-axis. These elements 341, 351 are shaped like twisted rectangular plates, and each static mixer 34, 35 has a structure in which elements 341, 351 with different twist directions are arranged alternately. Therefore, the slurry-like cosmetic material passing through the inside of the static mixers 34, 35 is stirred and mixed as it passes through each element 341, 351.

[0052] The supply unit 2B includes cylindrical supply pipes 24 (24A to 24D) for supplying the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic to each static mixer 34 (34A to 34D), and cylindrical supply pipes 25 (25A to 25C) for supplying the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic to each static mixer 35 (35A to 35C). Each supply pipe 24, 25 is connected to a pump (not shown) that introduces the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic into the static mixers 34, 35 in a predetermined ratio.

[0053] Specifically, in this embodiment, static mixer 34A introduces the first cosmetic at a ratio of 95% and the second cosmetic at a ratio of 5%. Static mixer 35A introduces the first cosmetic at a ratio of 80% and the second cosmetic at a ratio of 20%. Static mixer 34B introduces the first cosmetic at a ratio of 65% and the second cosmetic at a ratio of 35%. Static mixer 35B introduces the first cosmetic at a ratio of 50% and the second cosmetic at a ratio of 50%. Static mixer 34C introduces the first cosmetic at a ratio of 35% and the second cosmetic at a ratio of 65%. Static mixer 35C introduces the first cosmetic at a ratio of 20% and the second cosmetic at a ratio of 80%. The Static Mixer 34D introduces the first cosmetic at a ratio of 5% and the second cosmetic at a ratio of 95%.

[0054] Thus, in this embodiment, the multicolor cosmetic filling apparatus 1B includes a first inflow means (e.g., a supply pipe 24A and a pump connected to the supply pipe 24A) for introducing the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic into a first flow path (e.g., a static mixer 34A) in a first ratio, and a second inflow means (e.g., a supply pipe 25A and a pump connected to the supply pipe 25A) for introducing the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic into a second flow path (e.g., a static mixer 35A) in a second ratio.

[0055] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the multi-color cosmetic filling device 1B is arranged in a triangular shape with respect to the first flow path (e.g., static mixer 34A) and the second flow path (e.g., static mixer 34B), and includes a third flow path (e.g., static mixer 35A) that flows the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic in a third ratio that is greater than the first ratio and less than the second ratio. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the third flow path includes a third mixing means (for example, an element 351 of the static mixer 35A) for mixing the third flowing cosmetic (for example, the flowing cosmetic that flows through the static mixer 35A) that flows through the third flow path. In this embodiment, the discharge unit 4 functions as a discharge means for dispensing a combined cosmetic mixture, which is a mixture of the first, second, and third circulating cosmetic mixtures, onto the cosmetic tray 10.

[0056] According to this embodiment, in addition to being able to achieve the same effects and benefits as the first embodiment, the following effects and benefits can also be achieved. (5) The multi-color cosmetic filling device 1B includes a first inflow means for introducing the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic into the first flow path in a first ratio, and a second inflow means for introducing the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic into the second flow path in a second ratio. Since the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic are introduced into the first flow path and the second flow path through separate paths, the ratios of the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic can be reliably set compared to, for example, the case where the ratios of the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic are set using a partition plate, and variations in the gradient pattern can be reduced.

[0057] (6) The multi-color cosmetic filling device 1B is positioned in a triangular shape with respect to the first and second flow paths and includes a third flow path that flows the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic in a third ratio greater than the first ratio and less than the second ratio, and the third flow path has a third mixing means for mixing the third flowing cosmetic flowing through this third flow path. Therefore, by filling the cosmetic dish 10 with slurry-like cosmetic, it is possible to produce a multi-color cosmetic having a gradient pattern that gradually changes in the order of the first flowing cosmetic, the third flowing cosmetic, and the second flowing cosmetic along the direction in which the first and second flow paths are arranged side by side.

[0058] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and any modifications, improvements, etc., that can achieve the objectives of the present invention are included within the scope of the present invention. For example, in each of the above embodiments, the first mixing means, the second mixing means, and the downstream mixing means employ static mixers, but other structures such as simple baffles may be used as long as they can mix the circulating cosmetic material. Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the first channel, the second channel, and the downstream channel have the first mixing means, the second mixing means, and the downstream mixing means, but for example, if the channel has a certain length, it does not need to have each of the mixing means. [Industrial applicability]

[0059] As described above, the present invention can be suitably used in a multi-color cosmetic filling apparatus and a filling method for filling a dish-shaped container with multiple colors of cosmetic materials. [Explanation of symbols]

[0060] 1,1A,1B Multicolor cosmetic filling device 2.2B Supply Unit 3,3A,3B Distribution Unit 4. Discharge unit (discharge means) 10. Cosmetic dish (container) 31. Static mixer (first channel, second channel) 32 Downstream Static Mixer (Downstream Flow Channel) 33A First direct flow channel 33G Second direct channel 34,35 Static mixer (first channel, second channel, third channel) 41 Interior space 42 Discharge port

Claims

1. A multi-color cosmetic filling apparatus for filling a slurry-like cosmetic into a dish-shaped container, A first flow path through which a first cosmetic and a second cosmetic of a different color from the first cosmetic are circulated in a first ratio, A second flow path is provided alongside the first flow path and circulates the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic in a second ratio different from the first ratio, A multicolor cosmetic filling apparatus comprising a dispensing means for dispensing a combined cosmetic into a container, which is obtained by combining a first flowable cosmetic flowing through the first flow path and a second flowable cosmetic flowing through the second flow path.

2. In the multicolor cosmetic filling apparatus described in claim 1, A first inflow means for introducing the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic into the first flow path in a first ratio, A multi-color cosmetic filling apparatus comprising a second inflow means for introducing the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic into the second flow path in the second ratio.

3. In the multicolor cosmetic filling apparatus described in claim 1, The first flow path has a first mixing means for mixing the first flow cosmetic, A multi-color cosmetic filling apparatus characterized in that the second flow path has a second mixing means for mixing the second flow cosmetic.

4. In the multicolor cosmetic filling apparatus described in claim 3, A downstream channel is provided on the downstream side of the first channel and the second channel, and is positioned to allow both the first and second flowable cosmetic materials to flow into it. The downstream channel has a downstream mixing means for mixing the downstream-flowing cosmetic material that flows through the downstream channel, A multi-color cosmetic filling apparatus characterized in that the dispensing means dispenses a combined cosmetic into the container, which is a mixture of the first circulating cosmetic, the second circulating cosmetic, and the downstream circulating cosmetic.

5. In the multicolor cosmetic filling apparatus described in claim 3, The device is provided with a third flow path positioned in a triangular shape with respect to the first and second flow paths, and which circulates the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic in a third ratio that is greater than the first ratio and less than the second ratio. The third flow path has a third mixing means for mixing the third flow cosmetic material that flows through the third flow path, A multi-color cosmetic filling apparatus characterized in that the dispensing means dispenses a combined cosmetic mixture, which is a mixture of the first, second, and third circulating cosmetic mixtures, into the container.

6. In a multicolor cosmetic filling apparatus according to claims 1 to 5, A multi-color cosmetic filling apparatus characterized in that the dispensing means moves along a direction perpendicular to the parallel arrangement of the first and second flow paths and parallel to the bottom surface of the container, while dispensing a combined cosmetic into the container, which is formed by combining each of the flowing cosmetic materials.

7. A method for filling multicolored cosmetics, in which a slurry-like cosmetic is filled into a dish-shaped container, A method for filling a multicolor cosmetic, comprising a filling step of discharging a combined cosmetic into a container, which is obtained by combining a first circulating cosmetic, which flows through a first channel through which a first cosmetic and a second cosmetic of a different color from the first cosmetic are circulated in a first ratio, and a second circulating cosmetic, which flows through a second channel through which the first cosmetic and the second cosmetic are circulated in a second ratio different from the first ratio.

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