Method for producing metallic poured cosmetic products, metallic poured cosmetic product obtained using said method and machine for producing metallic poured cosmetic products

Abstract

A method and machine (200) for producing metallic poured cosmetic products (100) from a mixture (M) comprising a liquid phase and magnetic beads made of ferromagnetic material suspended in the liquid phase. The mixture (M) is poured into the containment volume of a bottom case (101) and cooled. During pouring, and / or during cooling, the bottom case (101) is exposed to a magnetic field that acts on the magnetic beads contained in the mixture (M) poured within the containment volume of the bottom case (101) and influences their positioning relative to the side walls of the bottom case (101).

Description

[0001] METHOD FOR PRODUCING METALLIC POURED COSMETIC PRODUCTS, METALLIC POURED COSMETIC PRODUCT OBTAINED USING SAID METHOD AND MACHINE FOR PRODUCING METALLIC POURED COSMETIC PRODUCTS

[0002] The present invention relates to a method for producing metallic poured cosmetic products such as lipsticks, foundation or blush.

[0003] The present invention also relates to a poured cosmetic product and a machine for producing metallic poured cosmetic products.

[0004] In other words, the present invention fits into the cosmetic products sector. Today, to produce poured cosmetic products, ingredients are selected that will be contained in the product and that will determine its properties such as texture, colour and durability. These ingredients generally include pigments, oils, waxes and / or demulcents.

[0005] The selected ingredients are then processed to create a solid, homogeneous and lump-free compound.

[0006] The resulting compound is melted: a liquid mixture is thus obtained poured into a mould and subsequently cooled within the mould to obtain a cosmetic compound with a viscosity which is higher than the viscosity of the mixture.

[0007] Known production methods enable the production of poured cosmetic products with an appearance that is solely due to the pigments and their final arrangement.

[0008] In other words, known production methods can be used to obtain metallic poured cosmetic products that can be differentiated in appearance from other products by the type, mixture and concentration of the beads and the colour given by the uniform distribution of the pigments they contain.

[0009] Sometimes, particularly in high-end products, magnetic beads are released into the mixture, giving the cosmetic product a more attractive and “premium” appearance. Today, the production methods of metallic poured cosmetic products allow for a completely random, that is, uncontrollable, positioning of the metallic beads they contain.

[0010] Moreover, the mixing of products is normally subject to a high degree of randomness, which means that products made with similar production methods have different appearances.

[0011] The technical task of the present invention is, therefore, that of providing a method and a machine for producing metallic poured cosmetic products that can overcome the drawbacks emerging from the prior art.

[0012] One purpose of the present invention is to provide a method and a machine for producing metallic poured cosmetic products that enable the production of poured cosmetic products with pre-defined and repeatable aesthetic characteristics.

[0013] One purpose of the present invention is to provide a metallic poured cosmetic product that is easily distinguishable from other, similar poured cosmetic products.

[0014] One purpose of the present invention is to provide a method and a machine for producing metallic poured cosmetic products that enable the production of poured cosmetic products that are attractive to a consumer.

[0015] One purpose of the present invention is to provide a metallic poured cosmetic product that is attractive to a consumer.

[0016] The specified technical task and purposes are essentially achieved with a product and a method and a machine for producing metallic poured cosmetic products comprising the technical characteristics set forth in one or more of the attached claims

[0017] The dependent claims correspond to possible embodiments of the invention.

[0018] In particular, the present invention provides a method for producing metallic poured cosmetic products.

[0019] It should be noted that, in the following, reference will be made without distinction to a “poured cosmetic product” or “metallic poured cosmetic product”, meaning the metallic product in both cases.

[0020] The method comprises a step for preparing a bottom case comprising a base wall and side walls extending transversally from the base wall and defining, with said base wall, a containment volume which is preferably open at the top.

[0021] Said containment volume preferably contains a mixture.

[0022] The mixture preferably comprises magnetic beads made of ferromagnetic material.

[0023] The mixture preferably comprises a liquid phase.

[0024] The magnetic beads are preferably arranged suspended within the liquid phase.

[0025] The method preferably includes a step for cooling the mixture poured into the bottom case to obtain a cosmetic compound.

[0026] The resulting cosmetic product is a metallic poured cosmetic product with magnetic beads in it.

[0027] According to one aspect of the present invention, the method includes a step of exposing the bottom case to a magnetic field.

[0028] The cooling step is performed during the step of exposing the bottom case to the magnetic field.

[0029] In this way, the magnetic field acts on the magnetic beads contained in the mixture and influences their positioning relative to the side walls of the bottom case, that is, their spatial positioning, during pouring and / or cooling.

[0030] Advantageously, the step of exposing the bottom case to the magnetic field allows a predefined pattern, defined by the magnetic beads, to be defined in the cosmetic compound of the product obtained using this method. The predefined pattern gives the product easily distinguishable aesthetic characteristics that are attractive to a consumer.

[0031] The step of exposing the bottom case to the magnetic field preferably involves generating a magnetic field with its own field lines that are radial with respect to the base wall of the bottom case. The step of exposing the bottom case to the magnetic field preferably involves preparing one or more magnets.

[0032] The step of exposing the bottom case to the magnetic field preferably involves preparing an electromagnet.

[0033] The step of exposing the bottom case to the magnetic field preferably involves positioning the prepared magnet and / or electromagnet with an orientation such as to generate a magnetic field with its own field lines that are radial with respect to the base wall of the bottom case.

[0034] The step of exposing the bottom case to the magnetic field preferably involves placing the prepared magnet and / or electromagnet at a predetermined distance from the bottom case, measured transversely to the base wall or to one of the side walls of the bottom case.

[0035] The step of exposing the bottom case to the magnetic field preferably involves moving the prepared magnet and / or electromagnet around an axis transverse to the base wall or to one of the side walls of the bottom case to orient the prepared magnet and / or electromagnet in space.

[0036] The step of exposing the bottom case to the magnetic field preferably involves preparing a magnetic sheet.

[0037] The step of exposing the bottom case to the magnetic field preferably involves positioning the base wall of the bottom case resting on the magnetic sheet.

[0038] The step of exposing the bottom case to the magnetic field preferably involves positioning the magnet and / or electromagnet so that the magnetic sheet is arranged between the base wall of the bottom case and the prepared magnet or electromagnet.

[0039] A metallic poured cosmetic product comprising the bottom case and a cosmetic compound comprising the magnetic beads, arranged according to a predefined pattern obtained using the method, can thus be produced using the method.

[0040] The cosmetic compound preferably has a first weight, and the magnetic beads have a second weight ranging from 10% to 40%, preferably between 13% and 33%, of the first weight.

[0041] The second weight is preferably 23% of the first weight.

[0042] The present invention provides a machine for producing metallic poured cosmetic products.

[0043] The machine is preferably designed to carry out the method covered by the present invention.

[0044] The machine preferably comprises a feed region configured to receive at least one bottom case.

[0045] The machine comprises a pouring station comprising a dispensing device designed to dispense the mixture comprising the magnetic beads made of ferromagnetic material within the containment volume of the bottom case. The pouring station is, preferably, operationally located downstream of the feed region.

[0046] The machine preferably comprises a cooling station operationally arranged downstream of the pouring station designed to cool the mixture contained in the bottom case containment volume to obtain the cosmetic compound. The cooling station preferably comprises a cooling device designed to cool the mixture.

[0047] The machine comprises a magnetic field generating device placed adjacent to the pouring station and / or the cooling station.

[0048] The generating device is configured to generate a magnetic field so that the magnetic field acts on the magnetic beads contained in the mixture poured within the containment volume of the bottom case and influences a positioning of the magnetic beads relative to the side walls of the bottom case when the bottom case is arranged adjacent to the pouring station and / or cooling station.

[0049] The machine thus makes it possible to obtain a cosmetic product whose cosmetic compound has a predefined pattern given by the positioning of the magnetic beads.

[0050] The magnetic field generating device preferably defines a support surface configured to have the bottom case rest on it. The magnetic field generating device is preferably configured to generate a magnetic field that has its own field lines radial with respect to the support surface.

[0051] The magnetic field generating device preferably comprises a magnet or electromagnet.

[0052] The magnetic field generating device preferably comprises a magnetic sheet.

[0053] The magnetic sheet preferably defines the support surface.

[0054] The magnetic sheet is preferably delimited by a surface opposite the support surface and arranged near, or in contact with, the magnet and / or electromagnet.

[0055] The magnetic field generating device is preferably movable between a pouring position and a terminal position.

[0056] In the pouring position, the magnetic field generating device is arranged adjacent to the pouring station to generate a magnetic field near the pouring station.

[0057] In the terminal position, the magnetic field generating device is arranged downstream of the cooling station.

[0058] The magnetic field generating device can preferably be moved from the pouring position to the terminal position by passing through the cooling station, to generate a magnetic field near the cooling station.

[0059] Additional features and advantages of the present invention will become clearer from the indicative, and therefore non-limiting, description of an embodiment of a method and machine for producing poured cosmetic products, and a poured cosmetic product.

[0060] This description will be set forth herein below with reference to the accompanying drawings, provided for merely indicative and therefore nonlimiting purposes, wherein:

[0061] - Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a machine for producing poured cosmetic products covered by the present invention;

[0062] - Figure 2 shows a schematic view of a station of the machine in Figure 1 ; - Figure 3 shows an exploded schematic view of a portion of the machine in Figure 1 with one component not in view;

[0063] - Figure 4 shows a partially exploded schematic view of the machine portion in Figure 2 with all components in view;

[0064] - Figures 5-7 show an upper schematic view of the product being processed in the machine in Figure 1 , and / or using the method covered by the present invention.

[0065] With reference to the attached figures, the reference number 100 denotes a poured cosmetic product as a whole that will be referred to in this description as “product 100” for the sake of simplicity.

[0066] Product 100 comprises a bottom case 101 intended to contain a cosmetic compound 102.

[0067] The term “cosmetic compound” refers to a compound obtained by cooling a mixture “M” comprising at least one liquid phase.

[0068] Specifically, cosmetic compound 102 has a viscosity which is higher than the viscosity of the starting mixture “M”.

[0069] For example, cosmetic product 102 may be a lipstick, blush or foundation. Bottom case 101 comprises a base wall 101 a and side walls 101 b extending from base wall 101 a.

[0070] Side walls 101 b are transverse to base wall 101 a and define a containment volume “V” with base wall 101 a.

[0071] Compound 102 is arranged within containment volume “V”.

[0072] Mixture “M” (and thus cosmetic compound 102) comprises ingredients such as pigments, oils, waxes and / or demulcents.

[0073] Mixture “M” preferably comprises magnetic beads “P” (schematically shown in Figure 5) made of ferromagnetic material.

[0074] The term “magnetic beads” refers to a granular material whose grains comprise ferromagnetic material.

[0075] The magnetic beads preferably comprise mica or other minerals belonging to the phyllosilicate subclass.

[0076] The present invention provides a machine 200 and a method for producing metallic poured cosmetic products 100 for the purpose of obtaining the product 100.

[0077] As shown in Figure 1 , machine 200 comprises a feed region 3 configured to receive at least one bottom case 101 .

[0078] An operator preferably manually feeds at least one bottom case 101 to feed region 3.

[0079] Alternatively, in accordance with a variant not shown in the attached figures, machine 200 includes a feed device, for example a conveyor belt, suitable for feeding bottom case 101 .

[0080] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, machine 200 comprises a pouring station 4.

[0081] Pouring station 4 is operationally arranged downstream of feed region 3 to receive fed bottom case 101.

[0082] The pouring station 4 comprises a dispensing device 4a designed to dispense the mixture “M” within the containment volume “V” of the fed bottom case 101 .

[0083] Mixture “M” is of the type described above, so it comprises at least one liquid phase.

[0084] In addition, the mixture “M” includes magnetic beads “P”, made of ferromagnetic material, suspended within the liquid phase.

[0085] Referring to Figure 2, the dispensing device 4a comprises a vessel 40, defining its own inner chamber designed to contain the mixture "M", and at least one nozzle 41 , in fluid-dynamic communication with the inner chamber of vessel 40. It is suitable for dispensing the mixture "M" to transfer it from the inner chamber of vessel 40 to the containment volume "V" of the bottom case 101.

[0086] Vessel 40 preferably has an agitating device suitable for mixing the mixture “M” within the inner chamber of vessel 40.

[0087] Vessel 40 preferably has a heating device, which is suitable for heating the mixture “M” contained within the inner chamber of vessel 40 (or a solid compound to obtain the mixture “M”). It should be noted that, in some alternative embodiments not illustrated here, the pouring station could comprise two dispensing devices arranged in succession, one for dispensing the liquid phase and the other for releasing magnetic beads “P”.

[0088] With reference to Figure 1 , machine 200 includes a cooling station 5.

[0089] The cooling station 5 is operationally arranged downstream of the pouring station 4 to receive the bottom case 101 containing the mixture “M” within its containment volume “V”.

[0090] The cooling station 5 includes a cooling device 5a designed to cool the mixture “M” to obtain the cosmetic compound 102.

[0091] The cooling device 5a is preferably suitable for generating an airflow directed towards the bottom case 101 to cool the mixture “M” contained in its containment volume “V”.

[0092] The cooling station 5 preferably comprises a cooling channel 50 suitable for accommodating the bottom case 101 containing the mixture "M" within its containment volume "V"; cooling device 5a is suitable for generating an airflow within cooling channel 50.

[0093] Cooling channel 50 therefore comprises an inlet opening 50a, configured to allow the inlet of bottom case 101 into the cooling channel 50 downstream of the pouring station 4, and an outlet opening 50b, configured to allow bottom case 101 to exit the cooling channel 50 when the cooling of mixture "M" is complete.

[0094] In accordance with one advantageous aspect of the present invention, and with reference to Figures 3 and 4, the machine 200 comprises a magnetic field generating device 6 configured to generate a magnetic field 300.

[0095] For the sake of simplicity, magnetic field generating device 6 will be referred to as a “generating device 6” in the remainder of this description.

[0096] As will become clearer in the remainder of this description, thanks to generating device 6, it is possible to create a predefined pattern in cosmetic compound 102 obtained from the mixture “M” poured into the bottom case 101. Magnetic beads “P” contained in mixture “M”, specifically those suspended in its liquid phase, when subject to a magnetic field 300 can migrate and move within the liquid phase due to magnetic field 300.

[0097] In this regard, Figure 5 schematically shows magnetic beads "P" contained within the mixture "M" arranged in the containment volume "V" of the bottom case 101 before the bottom case 101 is exposed to the magnetic field 300 generated by generating device 6. In contrast, Figures 6 and 7 schematically show magnetic beads “P” contained within the mixture “M” arranged in the containment volume "V" of the bottom case 101 after the bottom case 101 has been exposed to the magnetic field 300 generated by generating device 6.

[0098] If before exposure to the magnetic field 300, magnetic beads “P” are randomly arranged within the mixture (Figure 5), after exposure to the magnetic field 300, the magnetic beads “P” are arranged in a predefined pattern (Figure 6 and Figure 7).

[0099] In other words, when subject to a magnetic field 300, magnetic beads “P” tend to position themselves along the lines of magnetic field 300.

[0100] Generating device 6 is preferably placed adjacent to pouring station 4 so that the magnetic field 300 generated by the generating device 6 acts on the magnetic beads “P” contained in the mixture "M" when it is poured into the containment volume "V" of the bottom case 101 .

[0101] The term “adjacent to” means “near”.

[0102] Thanks to the generating device 6, it is therefore possible to influence a positioning of magnetic beads “P” with respect to side walls 101 b of bottom case 101 when the latter is positioned in the pouring station 4.

[0103] It is, thus, possible to arrange the magnetic beads “P” within the mixture “M” according to a predefined pattern before cooling the mixture “M” in the cooling station 5.

[0104] Generating device 6 is preferably also (or only) placed adjacent to the cooling station 5 so that the magnetic field 300, generated by generating device 6, acts on the magnetic beads “P” contained in the mixture "M" when it is cooled within the containment volume "V" of the bottom case 101.

[0105] Generating device 6 is preferably arranged within the cooling channel 50.

[0106] Thanks to generating device 6, it is possible to influence a positioning of the magnetic beads “P” with respect to the side walls 101 b of bottom case 101 during the cooling of the mixture “M” to stabilise a predefined pattern in the cosmetic compound 102, produced using the the machine.

[0107] Thanks to the generating device 6, therefore, it is advantageously possible to influence the positioning of magnetic beads “P” with respect to side walls 101 b of the bottom case to define a predefined pattern in cosmetic compound 102 produced using the machine 200.

[0108] Thanks to the generating device 6, it is therefore possible to obtain a metallic poured cosmetic product 100 whose cosmetic compound 102 has a predefined pattern given by the magnetic beads “P”. This predefined pattern is advantageously easily recognisable and attractive to a consumer.

[0109] Generating device 6 is preferably arranged both adjacent to the pouring station 4 and adjacent to the cooling station 5, advantageously allowing improved repeatability of the predefined pattern in cosmetic compound

[0110] 102.

[0111] As illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, the generating device 6 preferably defines a support surface 6a configured to support base wall 101 a of bottom case 101 .

[0112] In other words, if the generating device 6 is arranged adjacent to the pouring station 4, the support surface 6a faces the dispensing device 4a, so that the mixture “M” can be poured (using pouring device 4a) into containment volume “V” of the bottom case 101 resting on the support surface 6a.

[0113] Advantageously, since bottom case 101 rests directly on generating device 6, the magnetic beads “P” contained in the mixture “M” can be better oriented with respect to the side walls 101 b of bottom case 101 .

[0114] Machine 200 preferably also comprises at least one guide 9 arranged along at least part of a perimeter portion 60a of the support surface 6a and adapted to hold the bottom case 101 in a predetermined position relative to the support surface 6a.

[0115] Generating device 6 is preferably configured to generate a magnetic field 300 that has its own field lines radial with respect to the support surface 6a.

[0116] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the generating device 6 comprises a magnet 1 or an electromagnet 1 .

[0117] If the the generating device includes an electromagnet 1 , it is advantageously possible to generate a magnetic field 300 that the user can modulate according to the effect desired for the finished product.

[0118] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the generating device 6 comprises a magnetic sheet 2.

[0119] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, and as illustrated in the accompanying figures, the generating device 4 comprises both the magnet 1 (or electromagnet 1 ) and the magnetic sheet 2.

[0120] Advantageously, this provides the operator with two interacting variables and greater versatility of action.

[0121] Magnetic sheet 2 preferably defines a support surface 6a.

[0122] Specifically, the magnetic sheet 2 is bounded by the support surface 6a and a surface opposite to the support surface 6a and arranged near magnet 1 (or electromagnet 1 ).

[0123] More preferably, the surface of magnetic sheet 2 opposite to the support surface 6a is placed in contact with magnet 1 (or electromagnet 1 ).

[0124] In other words, when the bottom case 101 is resting on support surface 6a, the magnetic sheet 2 is arranged between the base wall 101 a of the bottom case 101 and the magnet 1 (or the electromagnet 1 ).

[0125] Magnet 1 (or electromagnet 1 ) preferably has a concavity facing magnetic sheet 2.

[0126] Magnet 1 or (electromagnet 1 ) preferably has a “U” shape.

[0127] Magnet 1 (or electromagnet 1 ) is preferably made of alnico (AINiCoV). Magnetic sheet 2 is preferably 1 mm to 2 mm, more preferably 1.5 mm, thick.

[0128] Magnetic sheet 2 is preferably capable of generating a magnetic force of attraction ranging from 400g / cm2to 500g / cm2, more preferably of 450g / cm2.

[0129] Magnetic sheet 2 is preferably made of neodymium.

[0130] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the generating device 6 is movable at least between the pouring station 4 and the cooling station 5 between a pouring position and a terminal position.

[0131] In the pouring position, the generating device 6 is arranged at pouring station 4 to generate a magnetic field 300 at the pouring station, while in the terminal position, generating device 6 is arranged downstream of cooling station 5.

[0132] Generating device 6 is movable from the pouring position to the terminal position through the cooling station 5 to generate a magnetic field 300 at the cooling station 5 during its transit the through cooling station 5.

[0133] Generating device 6 is preferably movable from the pouring position to the terminal position via cooling channel 50 of cooling station 5.

[0134] If the generating device 6 defines support surface 6a, a movement of the generating device 6 between the pouring position and the terminal position results in a movement of bottom case 101 (resting on support surface 6a) between the pouring position and the terminal position.

[0135] To move the generating device 6 between the pouring and terminal positions, the machine 200 comprises a work plane 7 (schematically shown in Figure 1 ) at least partially facing the dispensing device 4a and movable with respect to the pouring station 4 and the cooling station 5. Generating device 6 is integrally connected with the work plane 7.

[0136] A movement of the work plane 7 therefore defines a movement of the generating device 6 between the pouring and terminal positions.

[0137] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, work plane 7 defines a work surface 7a at least partially facing the dispensing device 4a.

[0138] Cooling station 5 preferably comprises a tubular body 51 defining inlet opening 50a and outlet opening 50b.

[0139] Tubular body 51 also has an opening that extends axially between inlet opening 50a and outlet opening 50b and is open towards the work surface 7a.

[0140] Therefore, the tubular body 51 defines cooling channel 50 in cooperation with the work surface 7a.

[0141] Work plane 7 is movable with respect to the tubular body 51 so that a movement of the work plane 7 results in a movement of the generating device 6 along, preferably through, cooling channel 50.

[0142] If the generating device 6 defines a support surface 6a, a movement of generating device 6 through cooling channel 50 results in a movement of the bottom case 101 (resting on support surface 6a) through the cooling channel 50.

[0143] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, with reference to Figure 3 and Figure 4, work plane 7a has at least one receiving cavity 8 extending between a back wall 8a and an opening 8b, which is opposite back wall 8a and open towards work surface 7a.

[0144] Generating device 6 is at least partially inserted within the receiving cavity 8. A movement of the work plane 7 therefore results in a movement of the receiving cavity 8 and, consequently, of the generating device 6, which is at least partially contained therein.

[0145] In accordance with the embodiment shown in the accompanying figures, generating device 6 comprises the magnet 1 (or electromagnet 1 ), arranged within receiving cavity 8 and connected to its back wall 8a, and the magnetic sheet 2, arranged to close its opening 8b.

[0146] In other words, a peripheral portion 2a of magnetic sheet 2 is supported on the work surface 7a of work plane 7 around opening 8a.

[0147] Magnet 1 (or electromagnet 1 ) is preferably removably connected to the back wall 8a of receiving cavity 8, for example by means of a threaded coupling.

[0148] Advantageously, it is possible to alter the positioning of magnet 1 (or electromagnet 1 ) within receiving cavity 8 so as to change an orientation of magnetic field 300 lines generated by magnet 1 .

[0149] Work plane 7 extends around a main axis “X” and can be rotated around the main axis “X” to move the receiving cavity 8 and, thus, the generating device 6 between the pouring station 4 and the cooling station 5.

[0150] In other words, the pouring station 4 and the cooling station 5 are arranged along an annular and, more preferably circular, work path; work plane 7 can be rotated around the main axis “X” to move the generating device 6 along the work path.

[0151] Work plane 7 preferably comprises multiple receiving cavities 8, arranged radially around main extension axis “X”.

[0152] In other words, receiving cavities 8 are arranged along the work path.

[0153] The work path can also be linear.

[0154] Alternatively, in an embodiment not shown in the accompanying figures, the generating device 6 is fixed and arranged adjacent to the pouring station 4 and / or the cooling station 5. The machine comprises handling means for moving only bottom case 101 between the pouring station 4 and the cooling station 5.

[0155] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, machine 200 comprises an outlet conveyor region 10 operationally arranged downstream of cooling station 5 and schematically illustrated in Figure 1 .

[0156] Outlet conveyor region 10 is suitable for unloading bottom case 101 as it leaves cooling station 5, for example towards a storage station or an additional processing station.

[0157] Bottom case 101 can be unloaded manually or automatically.

[0158] If the unloading of the bottom case 101 is automated, the machine 200 preferably includes a conveyor device that has a pneumatic cylinder. The stem of the pneumatic cylinder supports an interceptor head, which is suitable for intercepting the bottom case 101 , as it exits the cooling station 5, and conveying it outwards from the machine 200.

[0159] The present invention also covers a method for producing a cosmetic product 100, preferably but not necessarily product 100 described herein. The steps of the method are schematically shown in Figures 5, 6 and 7.

[0160] In the preferred embodiment, the method is implemented by means of the machine 200, but different machines may also be included within the scope of the present invention.

[0161] It should be noted that, for simplicity of explanation, all characteristics described so far with reference to product 100 or machine 200 will be reintroduced with the same numbering with reference to the method as well. The characteristics of product 100 or elements of machine 200, where possible, will apply mutatis mutandis to the corresponding characteristics described within the scope of the method.

[0162] The method preferably comprises a step for preparing mixture “M” comprising the liquid phase and magnetic beads “P” suspended within the liquid phase.

[0163] The mixture “M” preparation step is preferably carried out by placing mixture “M” within the inner chamber of vessel 40.

[0164] The method includes a step for preparing bottom case 101 .

[0165] The bottom case 101 preparation step is preferably carried out by feeding the bottom plate 101 to the feed region 3 of the machine 200.

[0166] The method comprises a step for pouring mixture “M” within the containment volume “V” of the bottom case 101 .

[0167] It should be noted that the pouring step could involve either pouring mixture “M” in a single solution or carrying out the procedure in two separate sub-steps, one for pouring the liquid phase and the other for dispensing the magnetic beads.

[0168] However, the pouring step is preferably carried out by the pouring station 4 of the machine 200 or a similar station.

[0169] Alternatively, the method comprises a step of preparing the bottom case 101 containing the mixture “M” already poured within its containment volume “V”.

[0170] The method includes a step for cooling the mixture “M” poured into the bottom case 101 to obtain a cosmetic compound 102.

[0171] The cooling step is preferably carried out by the cooling station 5 of machine 200.

[0172] According to one, advantageous aspect of the present invention, the method comprises a step of exposing the bottom case 101 to a magnetic field 300.

[0173] The pouring step is preferably performed during the step of exposing the bottom case 101 to the magnetic field 300.

[0174] The cooling step is preferably performed during the step of exposing the bottom case 101 to the magnetic field 300.

[0175] In this way, the magnetic field 300 acts on magnetic beads "P" contained in the mixture "M" poured within the \containment volume "V" of the bottom case 101 , influencing their positioning with respect to the side walls 101 b of the bottom case 101 .

[0176] Thanks to the magnetic beads “P” and the magnetic field 300 generation step, it is therefore possible to define a predefined pattern (as schematically shown in Figure 6 and Figure 7) within the cosmetic compound 102 of the product 100, which is obtained from the mixture “M” using the method.

[0177] Advantageously, the method enables the production of a product 100 that, thanks to the predefined pattern, is easily distinguishable and attractive to a consumer.

[0178] The step of exposing the bottom case 101 to magnetic field 300 is preferably performed using the generating device 6.

[0179] The mixture “M” preparation step preferably involves preparing mixture “M”, which has a first weight, containing quantities of magnetic beads “P”, which have a second weight.

[0180] The second weight ranges from 10% to 40%, preferably from 13% to 33%, of the first weight. More preferably, the second weight is 23% of the first weight.

[0181] Therefore, the cosmetic compound 102, which is obtained by cooling the mixture “M”, comprises a percentage by weight of magnetic beads “P” ranging from 10% to 40%, preferably from 13% to 33%, and more preferably 23%.

[0182] These weight percentages of magnetic beads “P” make it possible to optimise the creation of the predefined pattern obtained from magnetic beads “P” during the production process of product 100. A negligible quantity of magnetic beads “P” would make the pattern poorly distinguishable, and an excessive quantity of magnetic beads “P” would make determining the pattern difficult, since mixture “M” and cosmetic compound 102 would both be saturated with magnetic beads “P”.

[0183] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the exposure step involves generating a magnetic field 300 that has its own field lines radial with respect to the base wall 101 a of the bottom case 101 and exposing the bottom case 101 to this magnetic field 300.

[0184] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the exposure step involves preparing the magnet 1 (or the electromagnet 1 ) and one or more positioning steps of the magnet 1 (or the electromagnet 1 ).

[0185] The method preferably involves positioning the magnet 1 (or the electromagnet 1 ) with an orientation such as to generate a magnetic field 300 that has its own field lines radial with respect to the base wall 101 a of the bottom case 101 .

[0186] The step of positioning the magnet 1 (or the electromagnet 1 ) preferably involves placing the magnet 1 (or the electromagnet 1 ) at a predetermined distance from the bottom case 101 .

[0187] This predetermined distance is measured transversely to the base wall 101 a, or to one of the side walls 101 b, of the bottom case 101 .

[0188] The predetermined distance is preferably measured orthogonally to the base wall 101 a of the bottom case 101 .

[0189] The step of preparing the magnet 1 (or the electromagnet 1 ) preferably involves moving the magnet 1 (or the electromagnet 1 ) around an axis transverse to the base wall 101 a or to one of the side walls 101 b of the bottom case 101 to orient the magnet 1 (or the electromagnet 1 ) in space. The above-mentioned axis is preferably orthogonal to the base wall 101 a of the bottom case 101 .

[0190] These magnet 1 (or electromagnet 1 ) positioning steps advantageously enable the magnet to be positioned in such a way as to generate the desired magnetic field 300, which can determine a corresponding predefined pattern in mixture “M” and in cosmetic compound 102 obtained by cooling mixture “M”.

[0191] In other words, different positions of the magnet 1 (or the electromagnet 1 ) correspond to different magnetic fields, to which the bottom case 101 is subject, and different predefined patterns.

[0192] The magnet 1 (or electromagnet 1 ) positioning step preferably involves placing it in a position facing the base wall 101 a of the bottom case 101 .

[0193] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the step of exposing the bottom case 101 to the magnetic field 300 involves preparing the magnetic sheet 2 and positioning the base wall 101 a of the bottom case 101 resting on the magnetic sheet 2.

[0194] The step of exposing bottom case 101 preferably includes positioning the magnet 1 (or the electromagnet 1 ) so that the magnetic sheet 2 is arranged between the base wall 101a of the bottom case 101 and the magnet 1 (or the electromagnet 1 ).

[0195] Bottom case 101 is preferably made of ferromagnetic material so that, when resting on magnetic sheet 2, it is attracted to and retained by the magnetic sheet 2.

[0196] Advantageously, the present invention can overcome the drawbacks that emerged from the prior art.

[0197] The method and the machine 200 make it possible to obtain product 100 that has a cosmetic compound 102 with a predefined pattern given by the magnetic beads “P” contained in it. Thanks to this predefined pattern, product 100 is advantageously more easily distinguishable by a consumer who, recognising the pattern, consequently recognises the product, distinguishing it from others.

[0198] It is therefore possible to distinguish the product 100 from other products not only due to its colouring (which may be very similar to the colouring of other products) but also by the predefined pattern of the magnetic beads “P”

[0199] Magnetic beads “P” give the cosmetic compound 102 a sparkling, colourful appearance and create colour reflections depending on the light hitting cosmetic compound 102.

[0200] Magnetic beads “P” therefore make the product 100 advantageously attractive to a consumer.

Claims

1. CLAIMS1. Method for the production of metallic poured cosmetic products (100) comprising the steps of:- preparing a bottom case (101 ) comprising a base wall (101 a) and side walls (101 b) extending transversally from the base wall (101a) and defining, with said base wall (101 a), a containment volume (V) containing a mixture (M) wherein magnetic beads (P) made of a ferromagnetic material are released in suspension within a liquid phase;- cooling the mixture (M) poured into the bottom case (101 ) to obtain a cosmetic compound (102); characterised in that it provides for a step of exposing said bottom case (101 ) to a magnetic field (300) performed by:- using a magnetic field generation device (6) defining a support surface (6a) configured to support the base wall (101a) of the bottom case (101 );- positioning the base wall (101 a) of the bottom case (101 ) on the support surface (6a), wherein the cooling step is carried out during the step of exposing the bottom case (101 ) to the magnetic field (300) so that said magnetic field (300) acts on the magnetic beads (P) contained in the mixture (M) within the containment volume (V) of the bottom case (101 ) and affects a positioning of said magnetic beads (P) with respect to the side walls (101 b) of the bottom case (101 ) during said cooling step.

2. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein the step of exposing the bottom case (101 ) to the magnetic field (300) comprises:- generating, by means of said magnetic field generation device (6), a magnetic field (300) having its own field lines radial with respect to the base wall (101 a) of the bottom case (101 );- exposing the bottom case (101 ) to said generated magnetic field (300).

3. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the magnetic field generation device (6) comprises a magnet (1 ) or an electromagnet (1 ) and wherein the step of exposing the bottom case (101 ) to the magnetic field (300) comprises:- positioning said magnet (1 ) or electromagnet (1 ) in an orientation such as to generate a magnetic field (300) having its own field lines radial with respect to the base wall (101 a) of the bottom case (101 ).

4. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein the step of positioning said magnet (1 ) or said electromagnet (1 ) comprises placing said magnet (1 ) or said electromagnet (1 ) at a predetermined distance from the bottom case (101 ), said predetermined distance being measured transversely to the base wall (101 a), or to one of the side walls (101 b), of the bottom case (101 ).

5. Method according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the step of preparing the magnet (1 ) or said electromagnet (1 ) comprises moving said magnet (1 ) about an axis transverse to the base wall (101 a), or to one of the side walls (101 b), of the bottom case (101 ) to orient said magnet (1 ) or said electromagnet (1 ) in space.

6. Method according to one or more of claims 3 to 5, wherein the magnetic field generation device (6) comprises a magnetic sheet defining the support surface (6a) and the magnet (1 ) or the electromagnet (1 ) and wherein the step of exposing the bottom case (101 ) to the magnetic field (300) comprises:- positioning the base wall (101 a) of said bottom case (101 ) on the support surface (6a) defined by said magnetic sheet (2);- positioning the magnet (1 ) or said electromagnet (1 ) so that said magnetic sheet (2) is interposed between the base wall (101 a) of thebottom case (101 ) and said magnet (1 ) or said electromagnet (1 ).

7. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the step of preparing the bottom case (101 ) containing the mixture (M) comprises the steps of:- preparing the mixture (M) comprising the liquid phase and the magnetic beads (P) suspended within the liquid phase;- pouring said mixture (M) within the containment volume (V) of the bottom case (101 ).

8. Method according to claim 7, wherein the step of preparing the mixture (M) comprises preparing a mixture (M) having a first weight and containing amounts of magnetic beads (P) having a second weight, the second weight being between 10% and 40%, preferably between 13% and 33%, of the first weight, more preferably the second weight being 23% of the first weight.

9. Metallic poured cosmetic product (100) comprising:- a bottom case (101 ), comprising a base wall (101 a) and side walls (101 b) extending transversally from the base wall (101 a), and defining, with said base wall (101 a), a containment volume (V);- a cosmetic compound (102) comprising at least magnetic beads (P) made of a ferromagnetic material arranged within the containment volume (V) of the bottom case (101 ), wherein the magnetic beads (P) are arranged according to a predefined pattern obtained by a method according to one or more of the preceding claims.

10. Product according to the preceding claim, wherein the cosmetic compound (102) has a first weight and the magnetic beads (P) having a second weight of between 10% and 40%, preferably between 13% andthe first weight.

11. Machine (200) for producing metallic poured cosmetic products (100) comprising:- a feed region (3), configured to receive at least one bottom case (101 ), wherein said bottom case (101 ) comprises a base wall (101a) and side walls (101 b) extending transversely from the base wall (101a) and delimiting, with said base wall (101a), a containment volume (V);- a pouring station (4) operatively arranged downstream of the feed region (3) and comprising a dispensing device (4a), adapted to dispense a mixture (M) within the containment volume (V) of the fed bottom case (101 ), said mixture (M) comprising a liquid phase and magnetic beads (P) made of a ferromagnetic material suspended in said liquid phase;- a cooling station (5), operatively arranged downstream of the pouring station (4), comprising a cooling device (5a) adapted to cool the mixture (M) contained in the containment volume (V) of the bottom case (101 ) so as to obtain a cosmetic compound (102); characterised in that it comprises a magnetic field generating device (6) located at the pouring station (4) and / or the cooling station (5) and defines a support surface (6a) configured to support the base wall (101 a) of the bottom case (101 ), wherein said generating device (6) is configured to generate a magnetic field (300) so that said magnetic field (300) acts on the magnetic beads (P) contained in the mixture (M) poured within the containment volume (V) of the bottom case (101 ) and affects a positioning of said magnetic beads (P) with respect to the side walls (101 b) of the bottom case (101 ) when said bottom case (101 ) is arranged at the pouring station (4) and / or the cooling station (5).

12. Machine (200) according to the preceding claim, wherein said magnetic field generating device (6) is configured to generate a magnetic field (300) having its own field lines radial with respect to said supportsurface (6a).

13. Machine (200) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the magnetic field generating device (6) comprises:- a magnet (1 ) or an electromagnet (1 ); and / or- a magnetic sheet (2); preferably the magnet (1 ) or the electromagnet (1 ) having a “U” shape.

14. Machine (200) according to claims 12 and 13, wherein the magnetic field generating device (6) comprises:- a magnet (1 ) or an electromagnet (1 );- a magnetic sheet (2) defining the support surface (6a) and bounded by a surface opposite said support surface (101 a) and arranged proximal to, or in contact with, said magnet (1 ) or said electromagnet (1 ).

15. Machine (200) according to claim 13 or 14, comprising at least one guide (9) arranged along at least part of a perimeter portion (60a) of the support surface (6a) and adapted to hold the bottom case (101 ) in a predetermined position relative to the support surface (6a).

16. Machine (200) according to any one of claims 11 -15, wherein the magnetic field generating device (6) is movable between:- a pouring position, wherein it is arranged at the pouring station (4) to generate a magnetic field (300) at said pouring station (4);- an end position, wherein it is arranged downstream of the cooling station (5); wherein the magnetic field generating device (6) is movable from said pouring position to said end position by passing through the cooling station (5) to generate a magnetic field (300) at said cooling station (5).

17. Machine (200) according to the preceding claim, comprising a workplane (7) defining a work surface (7a) at least partially facing the dispensing device (4a) and wherein the magnetic field generating device (6) is integral with said work plane (7), said work plane (7) being movable with respect to the pouring (4) and cooling stations (5) for moving the magnetic field generating device (6) between the pouring position and the end position; preferably, said work plane (7) being provided with at least one receiving cavity (8) open towards the work surface (7a) and the magnetic field generating device (6) being at least partially inserted within said receiving cavity (8).

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