Applicator comprising an applicator member having a plurality of loops

Abstract

An applicator (2) comprising: an applicator member (10) extending along a longitudinal axis (X), comprising: at least one support part (12), - a plurality of loops (1030, 1040, 1040', 1050; 1050') defining respective inner spaces which are at least partially superposed when said loops are observed in a direction normal to said inner spaces, each loop being connected at its ends to the support portion.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Title: Applicator comprising an applicator member having a plurality of loops Technical field

[0003] The present invention relates to applicators for applying a cosmetic, makeup or care, product to human keratin materials, notably the skin, the lips or keratin fibers such as the eyelashes and / or eyebrows, and to packaging and application devices comprising such applicators.

[0004] The invention relates more particularly to applicators comprising an applicator member made at least partially, better still completely, of plastics material, notably of at least one thermoplastic material by injection molding.

[0005] The invention relates equally well to packaging and application devices of the "dipin" type, that is to say comprising an applicator and a reservoir in which the applicator is dipped in order to be loaded with composition, and those of the "flow-through" type, in which the applicator member is supplied with composition by a device to which it is secured during application, such as a dispensing pen provided with a composition dispensing mechanism, a container with a compressible wall, or the like.

[0006] Prior art

[0007] The applicators of the "dip-in" type used for making up the eyelashes or eyebrows usually comprise an applicator member mounted at the end of a stem, the latter being connected, at the other end, to a gripping member which also acts as a closure cap for closing the container containing the product.

[0008] The applicator member is conventionally loaded with product by being dipped into the container, which is provided with a wiper which has a lip for wiping the stem as it is withdrawn from the container and which generally defines an orifice of substantially circular section, the diameter of which is adapted to that of the stem.

[0009] The behavior of the applicator member as it passes through the wiper depends on numerous factors such as the shape and nature of the lip of the wiper, and its dimensions, the geometry of the applicator member and the choice of the material(s) of which it is made.

[0010] Excessive wiping of the applicator member is likely to make it difficult to withdraw the latter from the container and causes the applicator member to be insufficiently loaded, obliging the user to frequently dip the applicator back into the container and potentially hindering the achievement of certain makeup effects.

[0011] By contrast, insufficient wiping leaves excess product on the applicator member, which is difficult to distribute on the eyelashes and can result in the presence of clumps of product on the eyelashes, which are thus poorly separated.

[0012] Furthermore, the applicator member generally carries application elements constituted of spikes, the arrangement of which has an influence on the behavior of the applicator as it is withdrawn from the container and on the resulting load.

[0013] Spikes that are very flexible will easily deform on passing through the wiper, thus making withdrawal easier, but their flexibility means that it will be more difficult for them to comb the eyelashes suitably during application and to smooth the product over the surface thereof. In addition, the wiper will tend to leave less product on the applicator member.

[0014] On the other hand, more rigid spikes will tend to deform less when the applicator member passes through, resulting in greater loading of the applicator member with product and a better ability to comb and separate the eyelashes. However, they can make it more difficult to pass through the wiper and can bring about a loss of sensory impression during application.

[0015] The design of the applicator thus usually results from a compromise that has to be made between various requirements that are sometimes contradictory as regards the quantity of product that is left on the applicator member for makeup application, the desired behavior on withdrawing the applicator member and the capacity for separating the eyelashes.

[0016] Conventionally, the spikes are carried by a central core of the applicator member. However, applicator members have been developed in which the spikes are carried by flexible arms.

[0017] Application FR3039382 describes an applicator comprising an elongate stem carrying an applicator member extending along a longitudinal axis. This applicator member comprises a core having one or more through-openings. Arms connect at one end to the core and meet through said opening. In exemplary embodiments, the arms form several successive loops which are connected to one another at the opening or openings of the core. In another exemplary embodiment, the applicator member comprises a single loop connected at its ends to a support portion adjacent to the stem. The apex of the loop is located in the opening, bearing axially against an adjustment pin sliding longitudinally in a distal portion of the core. Thus, by depressing the adjustment pin more or less, it is possible to deform the loop and to modify the properties of the applicator.

[0018] Application FR2993151 describes an applicator member intended for making up eyelashes, having a core having bulging portions extending around cavities.

[0019] Application EP2654490 discloses applicator members comprising arms in the form of outwardly convex arches disposed around a central core.

[0020] Application WO2023 / 233044 describes an applicator member comprising a plurality of arms having a twist shape and connected to one another at their distal end.

[0021] Application US2021 / 0186183A1 describes an applicator member comprising a core connected at one of its ends to a support part carried by a fastening end piece in an applicator stem. The core comprises a first portion that extends toward the front and a second portion that forms a return, the free end of which is in the vicinity of the support part. This return carries arches through which the first portion of the core passes.

[0022] Such an applicator member has a relatively complex structure, not suitable for manufacturing by injection-molding thermoplastic material.

[0023] Patent US6655390 describes an applicator for making up eyelashes comprising a perforated support carrying teeth, the teeth being connected either directly to the support or to arches carried by the support.

[0024] Moreover, makeup of the skin, nails or lips generally poses problems of precision of application, autonomy of the applicator and comfort of use, whether the applicator is of the "dip-in" or "flow through" type.

[0025] It is common to flock the applicator member so as to capture the composition and to be able to spread it more easily. However, the flocking operation is relatively complex and involves the use of adhesives, which do not always offer the mechanical strength required under certain conditions of use.

[0026] Patent EPl 726235B1 describes a flocked applicator member having several arms.

[0027] Application FR2722381 describes a nail polish applicator comprising an applicator member formed by a flexible flocked loop.

[0028] Furthermore, it may prove useful to make the application more gentle by allowing a certain degree of mobility of the application surface relative to the longitudinal axis of the stem. DE202011050794 discloses applicator members comprising application elements in the form of radially oriented loops.

[0029] WO2023233044 describes an applicator member of generally flattened shape, obtained by additive manufacturing, comprising a superposition of identical loops, each of which has an outer contour of generally triangular shape, including a smaller inner loop of substantially the same shape, connected to the outer loop by bridges of material that are substantially radial with respect to the center of the loop. The loops are connected at their apex by a strand of material extending perpendicularly to the loops, which tends to stiffen the assembly. The tip of the applicator member is thus defined by this connecting strand. The applicator member can be used flat to apply the composition over a large surface, but the application may lack flexibility, and furthermore it is relatively difficult to apply the composition while respecting a precise contour. It is admittedly possible to incline the applicator member relative to the skin to benefit from the tip effect linked to the triangular shape of the loops and the presence of the connecting strand, but then the surface in contact with the skin becomes very small, and this can affect the deposition already carried out or make an intensity contrast of application appear, which is not always desirable. It is thus difficult with such an applicator to realize certain makeup effects or to reach certain zones precisely, while depositing the desired quantity of composition.

[0030] Disclosure of the invention

[0031] There is a need to further improve cosmetic applicators and notably to remedy all or some of the drawbacks encountered in the prior art.

[0032] There is notably a benefit in having an applicator member which has satisfactory performance properties, which, when the applicator is used with a container equipped with a wiper, promotes the replenishment of the product during a cycle of withdrawing the applicator from and reinserting it into the container and the mechanical properties of which can be modified relatively easily during the design thereof, in order to adapt to the rheology of the product and to the desired makeup effect.

[0033] There is also a benefit in having an applicator member that is suitable for being manufactured by injection-molding thermoplastic material, which is less expensive to implement than additive manufacturing. There is also a need to benefit from an applicator suitable for the precise application of a composition to the skin or the lips which is comfortable to use and makes it possible to avoid, if desired, the presence of flocking while retaining a sufficient capacity for capturing the composition.

[0034] Summary of the invention

[0035] A subject of the invention, according to one of its aspects, is an applicator comprising: an applicator member extending along a longitudinal axis, comprising: o at least one support part, o a plurality of loops defining respective inner spaces which are at least partially superposed when said loops are observed in a direction normal to said inner spaces, each loop being connected at its ends to the support portion.

[0036] The term "loop" denotes an arm or succession of arms defining, with one or more other parts of the applicator member, a closed contour surrounding an inner space distinguished from the arm or arms by the absence of material or by a lesser thickness of material. This inner space may thus be empty of material (and in this case corresponds to the opening defined by the loop) or occupied at least partially by a membrane of lesser thickness, than the arm or arms forming the loop, notably of a thickness at least two times less, and better at least three times less, and even better at least four times less. The loop may extend along a plane, which then contains the longitudinal axes of the arm or arms constituting the loop. The loop may also not extend in a single plane. The loop may or may not be symmetrical with respect to a median plane. The loop may have the (proximal) ends of its constituent arm or arms located on the support part at the same axial position along the longitudinal axis of the applicator member. The arm or arms constituting the loop may extend angularly around a point located in the aforementioned inner space, over an angle of at least 120°, better still at least 180°. When the loop comprises several arms, it comprises, for example, two opposite arms that are symmetrical to one another with respect to a median plane, and these two arms meet, for example, at the apex of the loop, forming or not forming an angle between them. When the loop is planar, the direction normal to the inner space is a direction perpendicular to the plane of the loop.

[0037] The presence of the loops allows good capture of the composition by capillary action between the loops and in the inner space of the latter, thus making it possible, if desired, to avoid having to flock the applicator member. It is easier to manufacture the applicator member as a result. In addition, the applicator member may be produced with various configurations of the loops depending on the desired use, and this gives it great versatility. It is notably possible for the applicator member to be made of a flexible material, thus giving the applicator member good flexibility.

[0038] The deformation of the loops is sensitive to the direction of application of the load, perpendicularly to or parallel to the plane of the loop. This can make it possible to have an applicator member with a quite different mechanical behavior depending on the face used for the application. Moreover, the presence of multiple loops can guide the flow of the composition from the inside of the applicator to the outside in localized zones of the applicator member.

[0039] In examples of implementation of the invention, the loops extend along respective substantially parallel planes.

[0040] " Substantially parallel" should be understood to mean that the loops extend along distinct planes that are parallel or form, with respect to a reference plane common to all the loops, an angle of less than or equal to 25°, better still less than or equal to 10°, even better less than or equal to 5°, with this plane. The aforementioned superposition of said inner spaces may be observed perpendicularly to these planes or to the reference plane.

[0041] The number of loops of said plurality may be between 2 and 10, better still between 2 and 6, being for example 3 or 5.

[0042] The applicator member may comprise at least two loops of different sizes, better still at least three loops of different sizes. The loops of different sizes can be inscribed one inside the other when observed in superposition.

[0043] The width of the loops may decrease with increasing distance away from a median region of the applicator member, notably a central loop, the applicator member being observed along its longitudinal axis.

[0044] The loops may have any shape, and preferably an oblong shape, elongated along the longitudinal axis of the applicator member. The loops may have distal ends that may or may not all be located at the same distance from the support portion. The distal ends (i.e. the apexes) of the loops may thus be located at a distance from the support part which varies from one loop to the other, notably which decreases with increasing distance away from a median region of the applicator member, notably a central loop, or the distal ends of the loops are located at a distance from the support part which decreases from one side of the applicator member to the opposite side.

[0045] When the distal ends are not all at the same distance from the support part and are not all contained in the same plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the applicator member, the envelope surface of the applicator member can have, viewed from the side (notably in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal median plane of the applicator member), a generally beveled shape (for example "\" shape), rounded shape (for example "U" shape) or pointed shape (for example "V" shape), and this can improve the realization of a makeup effect with a precise contour and / or the application of the composition in specific zones with a sufficient quantity.

[0046] When the loops carry application elements such as spikes, such a general shape of the envelope surface may also prove favorable in terms of engagement of the application elements in the eyelashes, and in terms of the ability to make up the eyelashes precisely in the corner of the eye in particular.

[0047] The distal ends of the loops may be located at a distance from the support portion which decreases with increasing distance away from a median region of the applicator member, for example a central loop. This can make it possible to obtain an applicator member of tapered shape, allowing the realization of a precise makeup effect, notably drawing a line.

[0048] In a variant, the distal ends of the loops are located at a distance from the support portion which decreases from one side of the applicator member to the opposite side, giving the end of the applicator member the general shape of a bevel. Such a shape is particularly suitable for making up lips or eyebrows, for example in the presence of surface microstructuring.

[0049] Each loop may have two ends connected to the support part. These two ends may be connected to a surface which may be a surface of revolution of the support part or a planar surface, for example a planar surface perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the applicator member. Preferably, the ends of the loop which are connected to the support part occupy the same axial position along the longitudinal axis of the applicator member.

[0050] Each loop may have two opposite arms, each connected at one end to the support part and meeting at the other end the apex of the loop. These opposite arms may be symmetrical to one another.

[0051] An arm forming all or part of a loop may occupy in section between 0.01 and 20 mm2, better still between 0.2 and 5 mm2. Its largest transverse dimension may range from 0.1 to 4 mm, for example. The length of an arm, between its end connecting to the support part and its opposite end, for example the distal end of the loop, ranges for example from 3 to 60 mm.

[0052] The applicator member may be inscribed in section in a circle having a diameter ranging from 4 to 12 mm for an applicator intended for application to eyelashes or eyebrows, and a circle ranging from 4 to 17 mm for an applicator intended for application to the lips.

[0053] At least one of the loops of the plurality may carry, over at least a portion of its inner periphery, a membrane of lesser thickness, for example with a ratio ei / e2, where ei denotes the thickness of the arm of the loop to which the membrane connects, and e2denotes the thickness of the membrane, greater than 2, better still than 3, even better than 4. Such a membrane can facilitate the production of the applicator member by injection molding, extending in the parting line. Independently of this advantage, the membrane can also increase the surface area available to retain the composition, without unduly affecting the flexibility of the loops.

[0054] The applicator member may be made of an elastomeric material, notably a thermoplastic elastomer, preferably by injection molding. In a variant, the applicator member is produced by an additive manufacturing technique.

[0055] The applicator member may comprise an endpiece for mounting in an applicator stem; this endpiece may have a circular cross section, of constant diameter or decreasing toward the proximal end of the applicator member. The endpiece may form with the support part a shoulder, the contour of which may be circular, having a diameter corresponding substantially to the outer diameter of the stem of the applicator. This shoulder can come into abutment against the stem during the mounting of the applicator member. The mounting endpiece may be solid. The applicator member may comprise at least one loop passing through the inner space of at least one other loop belonging to said plurality of loops, the loop that passes through preferably being oriented along a plane perpendicular to a plane along which the other loop extends. This can make it possible to create additional capillary traps, promoting the retention of the composition on the applicator member, without compromising the flexibility of the loops of said plurality.

[0056] At least two loops of said plurality of loops may be connected to one another by at least one bridge of material, notably by an arch. This can make it possible to increase the rigidity of the applicator in a direction generally perpendicular to the superposed loops, and therefore to be able to exert a greater force on the surface to be treated during application. This can be useful for spreading the composition, notably when it is relatively viscous. Said arch may notably connect two end loops of the applicator member at their apex. The curved shape of the arch can make it possible to retain a certain degree of flexibility facilitating the moving together of the apexes of the loops when the applicator member is pressed on the skin or lips. The arch may be concave toward the distal end of the applicator member. The latter may comprise a loop, of which the ends are connected to the support part and the apex is connected to said arch. In exemplary embodiments, the distal ends (i.e. the apexes) of the loops remain free or are connected by one or more arches; in these examples in particular, the loops are not connected at their apexes by a rectilinear bridge of material joining all the apexes, which is notably oriented perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the applicator member, and this lack of a bridge of material preserves the flexibility of the applicator member at its end.

[0057] The applicator member may comprise four arms meeting at the distal end thereof. Two of these arms may belong to one of the loops of said plurality, and the two other arms may extend in a plane perpendicular to a plane along which said loop extends. These two other arms may be connected to the apexes of the end loops of said plurality.

[0058] The applicator member may comprise application elements such as spikes or other reliefs, which are notably carried by at least one of the loops of said plurality, and better still by each of the loops of the plurality.

[0059] The application elements carried by the end loops of said plurality may extend obliquely away from a median plane of the applicator member, notably a median plane along which a central loop of said plurality extends. The central loop may comprise application elements oriented parallel to said median plane. The applicator member may comprise a loop which passes through all the loops of said plurality and itself carries application elements.

[0060] Packaging and application device

[0061] A further subject of the invention is a packaging and application device comprising: an applicator according to the invention, a container containing the composition to be applied, comprising a wiper through which the applicator member passes when it is withdrawn from the container.

[0062] The orifice defined by the wiper, notably its diameter, may be dimensioned so that at least one of said loops deforms as it passes through. For example, there is a larger diameter of the applicator member (that is to say the diameter of the largest circle circumscribed in the section of the applicator member) which is between 1 and 1.5 times, or even between 1 and 2 times, the diameter of the wiper orifice (that is to say the diameter of the smallest circle circumscribed in the interior section of this orifice), the diameter of the wiper orifice ranging for example from 2.5 to 8 mm.

[0063] The composition contained in the container may be a makeup or care product, notably a makeup or care product for the skin or lips, or a mascara.

[0064] When the composition is intended for application to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows, the applicator member carries application elements such as spikes or other application reliefs.

[0065] Cosmetic treatment, notably makeup, method

[0066] A further subject of the invention is a method for the cosmetic treatment of human keratin materials, notably the skin, lips, eyelashes or eyebrows, by means of a packaging and application device as defined above, this method comprising the step consisting in applying the composition to the keratin materials using the applicator.

[0067] The method may comprise the action of rotating the applicator member about its axis, in order to twist, on contact with the wiper, at least one of said loops and radially close it up. This can make it possible to create forced circulation of composition, and thus to promote the replenishment of the composition. This may improve wiping. If the composition is relatively viscous, which may be the case with a mascara, the applicator member may tend to twist on contact with the composition during the unscrewing of the member for stoppering the container, which also serves as a member for gripping the applicator. Brief description of the drawings

[0068] The invention may be understood more clearly on reading the following detailed description of non-limiting examples of implementation thereof, and on studying the appended drawing, in which:

[0069] [Fig 1] figure 1 shows a schematic and partial view of an example of a packaging and application device comprising an applicator according to the invention,

[0070] [Fig 2] figure 2 shows a partial, perspective view of an example of an applicator member according to the invention, on its own,

[0071] [Fig 3] figure 3 is a side view of the applicator member in figure 2,

[0072] [Fig 4] figure 4 is a longitudinal section along IV-IV in figure 3,

[0073] [Fig 5] figure 5 is an end-on view of the applicator member in figure 2,

[0074] [Fig 6] figure 6 is a longitudinal section along VI- VI in figure 5,

[0075] [Fig 7] figure 7 shows a perspective view of a variant of a applicator member,

[0076] [Fig 8] figure 8 shows the detail VIII in figure 7,

[0077] [Fig 9] figure 9 is a side view of the applicator member in figure 7,

[0078] [Fig 10] figure 10 is a longitudinal section along X-X in figure 9,

[0079] [Fig 11] figure 11 is an end-on view of the applicator member in figure 7,

[0080] [Fig 12] figure 12 is a longitudinal section along XII-XII in figure 11,

[0081] [Fig 13] figure 13 shows a perspective view of a variant of a applicator member according to the invention,

[0082] [Fig 14] figure 14 is a side view of the applicator member in figure 13,

[0083] [Fig 15] figure 15 is a longitudinal section along XV-XV in figure 14,

[0084] [Fig 16] figure 16 is an end-on view of the applicator member in figure 13,

[0085] [Fig 17] figure 17 is a longitudinal section along XVII-XVII in figure 16,

[0086] [Fig 18] figure 18 shows a perspective view of a variant of a applicator member according to the invention,

[0087] [Fig 19] figure 19 is a side view of the applicator member in figure 18,

[0088] [Fig 20] figure 20 is a longitudinal section along XX-XX in figure 19,

[0089] [Fig 21] figure 21 is an end-on view of the applicator member in figure 18,

[0090] [Fig 22] figure 22 is a longitudinal section along XXII-XXII in figure 21, [Fig 23] figure 23 shows a perspective view of a variant of a applicator member according to the invention,

[0091] [Fig 24] figure 24 is a side view of the applicator member in figure 23,

[0092] [Fig 25] figure 25 is a longitudinal section along XXV-XXV in figure 24,

[0093] [Fig 26] figure 26 is an end-on view of the applicator member in figure 23,

[0094] [Fig 27] figure 27 is a longitudinal section along XXVII-XXVII in figure 26,

[0095] [Fig 28] figure 28 shows a perspective view of a variant of a applicator member according to the invention,

[0096] [Fig 29] figure 29 is a side view of the applicator member in figure 28,

[0097] [Fig 30] figure 30 is a longitudinal section along XXX-XXX in figure 29,

[0098] [Fig 31] figure 31 is an end-on view of the applicator member in figure 28,

[0099] [Fig 32] figure 32 is a longitudinal section along XXXII-XXXII in figure 31,

[0100] [Fig 33] figure 33 shows a perspective view of a variant of a applicator member according to the invention,

[0101] [Fig 34] figure 34 is a side view of the applicator member in figure 33,

[0102] [Fig 35] figure 35 is a longitudinal section along XXXV-XXXV in figure 34,

[0103] [Fig 36] figure 36 is a longitudinal section of the applicator member in a section plane perpendicular to that in figure 35,

[0104] [Fig 37] figure 37 shows a perspective view of a variant of a applicator member according to the invention,

[0105] [Fig 38] figure 38 is a side view of the applicator member in figure 37,

[0106] [Fig 39] figure 39 is a longitudinal section along XXXIX-XXXIX in figure 38,

[0107] [Fig 40] figure 40 is a section of the applicator member in a section plane perpendicular to that in figure 39,

[0108] [Fig 41] figure 41 shows a perspective view of a variant of a applicator member according to the invention,

[0109] [Fig 42] figure 42 is a side view of the applicator member in figure 33,

[0110] [Fig 43] figure 43 is a longitudinal section along XLIII-XLIII in figure 42,

[0111] [Fig 44] figure 44 is a longitudinal section of the applicator member in a section plane perpendicular to that in figure 43,

[0112] [Fig 45] figure 45 shows a perspective view of a variant of a applicator member according to the invention, [Fig 46] figure 46 is an end-on view of the applicator member in figure 45,

[0113] [Fig 47] figure 47 is a side view of the applicator member in figure 45,

[0114] [Fig 48] figure 48 is a top view of the applicator member in figure 45,

[0115] [Fig 49] figure 49 is a longitudinal section along XLIX-XLIX in figure 48,

[0116] [Fig 50] figure 50 is a cross section along L-L in figure 47,

[0117] [Fig 51] figure 51 shows a perspective view of a variant of a applicator member according to the invention,

[0118] [Fig 52] figure 52 is a side view of the applicator member in figure 51,

[0119] [Fig 53] figure 53 is a longitudinal section along LIII-LIII in figure 52,

[0120] [Fig 54] figure 54 is an end-on view of the applicator member in figure 51, and

[0121] [Fig 55] figure 55 is a longitudinal section along LV-LV in figure 54.

[0122] Detailed description

[0123] Figure 1 shows an example of a packaging and application device 1 produced in accordance with the invention, comprising an applicator 2 and an associated container 3 containing a product P to be applied to human keratin fibers, for example the eyelashes or eyebrows, or in a variant the skin or lips, depending on the way that the applicator is produced.

[0124] The container 3 comprises, in the example in question, a threaded neck 4 and the applicator 2 comprises a closure cap 5 designed to be fastened on the neck 4 so as to close the container 3 in a sealed manner when it is not in use, the closure cap 5 also constituting a gripping member for the applicator 2.

[0125] The container 3 may also be produced in some other way.

[0126] The container 3 may comprise, as illustrated, a wiping member 6, for example snap-fastened in the neck 4.

[0127] The applicator 2 comprises a stem 7 of longitudinal axis Y, which is connected at its upper end to the closure cap 5 and, at its lower end, to an applicator member 10, shown in highly schematic form in figure 1, and which may be any of those illustrated in the other figures or variants thereof.

[0128] The wiping member 6 may be any wiping member and comprises, in the example in question, a lip designed to wipe the stem 7 and the applicator member 10 when the applicator 2 is withdrawn from the container 3. The lip defines a wiping orifice 6a having a diameter adapted to that of the stem 7.

[0129] The wiping member 6 may be made of elastomer.

[0130] The wiping orifice 6a may be of circular shape, possibly with slits.

[0131] The diameter d of the wiping orifice 6a is, for example, between 2.5 and 8 mm.

[0132] The wiping member 6 may optionally have undulations, allowing the wiping orifice 6a to widen more easily when the applicator member 10 passes through.

[0133] The wiping member may also be adjustable, if appropriate.

[0134] In the example illustrated, the stem 7 has a circular cross section, but it would not constitute a departure from the scope of the present invention if the stem 7 had a different cross section, it then being possible to fasten the cap 5 to the container 3 in some way other than by screwing, if necessary. The wiping member 6 is adapted to the shape of the stem 7 and to that of the applicator member 10, if appropriate.

[0135] Preferably, and as in the example illustrated in figure 1, the longitudinal axis Y of the stem 7 is rectilinear and coincident with the longitudinal axis of the container 3 when the applicator 2 is in place thereon, but it would not constitute a departure from the scope of the present invention if the stem 7 were not rectilinear, forming for example a bend.

[0136] If need be, the stem 7 may have an annular narrowing at its portion that is positioned opposite the lip of the wiping member 6, so as not to mechanically stress the latter unduly during storage.

[0137] The stem 7, to which the applicator member 10 is fastened, may be rigid or at least partially, and notably completely, flexible, notably in the vicinity of the applicator member 10.

[0138] The applicator member 10 may be fastened to the stem 7 by any means, and notably by force-fitting, snap-fastening, adhesive bonding, welding, stapling or crimping, in a corresponding housing 7a provided at the end of the stem 7. In a variant, the applicator member 10 is made as a single piece by molding material with at least part of the stem 7.

[0139] Figures 2 to 6 show an example of an applicator member 10 of longitudinal axis X, produced for example by injection-molding at least one thermoplastic material, comprising an endpiece 11 for fastening to the stem 7, intended to be received in the housing 7a of the latter. The endpiece 11 is extended toward the distal end of the applicator member 10 by a part 12 centered on the axis X, forming a shoulder 13.

[0140] The part 12 serves as support for a set of flexible loops 1030, 1040, 1050, 1040' and 1050', extending along respective planes P100, P101, P102, P 101 ' and P102', which are parallel to one another, as can be seen in figure 3. The inner spaces of the loops are at least partially superposed in top view, as illustrated in figure 4.

[0141] Each loop may be formed by a strand of material of substantially constant section, connected at its ends to the support part 12. The ends of the loop 1030 may be connected to the periphery of the support part 12, the ends of the loops 1050 and 1050' at diametrically opposite locations on the radially outer surface of the support part 12, and the ends of the loops 1040 and 1040' on a front face of the support part 12, perpendicular to the axis X.

[0142] Other integrations of the connecting ends of the loops on the support part 12 are possible.

[0143] In this example, the applicator member 10 has axial symmetry with respect to the longitudinal axis X.

[0144] The loop 1030, the most central one, is the longest, its distal end being located at a distance L from the shoulder 13, as can be seen in figure 4.

[0145] The loops 1050 and 1050' furthest from the central loop 1030 are the shortest, their distal end being located at a distance Z2from the shoulder 13.

[0146] The loops 1040 and 1040' are located respectively between the loop 1030 and the loops 1050 and 1050', their distal end being located at a distance Zi from the shoulder 13, with L> l2> l .

[0147] Each loop preferably has an oblong shape, with a length greater than its largest width.

[0148] For example, L / W, where L denotes the apparent length of the applicator member 10, measured from the shoulder 13, and W denotes the largest width of the applicator member 10, which corresponds in the example in question to the largest width of the central loop 1030, greater than or equal to 1, better still 2, even better 6.

[0149] W is preferably greater than or equal to the diameter of the stem 7, and therefore to that of the orifice of the lip of the wiping member 6. For example, W is between 3 and 15 mm. For example, L is between 5 and 40 mm.

[0150] Preferably, the loops located on the same side as the central loop 1030 have a larger width which decreases toward the outside, as illustrated in figure 5. This decrease may be linear, so that the points of largest width are located on the same straight line. This can make it possible to promote the contact of all loops located on the same side of the central loop with a planar surface to be treated.

[0151] The angle b formed between the planes which bear on the sides of the loops located on the same side of the central loop may be between 5 and 175°, for example being approximately 90°.

[0152] The ratio W / wi between the largest width W of the central loop 1030 and that M’ i of an end loop 1050 or 1050' is for example between 1 and 5.

[0153] The ratio w2 / wi is for example between 1 and 5.

[0154] The free ends of the loops located on one side of the central loop are preferably aligned with the free end of the central loop, as illustrated in figure 3, in such a way that all the loops located on one side of the central loop can easily come into contact with the surface to be treated when using the applicator.

[0155] The angle a formed between the planes bearing on the distal ends of the different loops is for example between 5 and 180°.

[0156] The loops may be separated by a constant spacing / ?, as illustrated in figure 6, or by a variable spacing. This spacing p is for example between 0 and 3 mm, better still between 0.3 mm and 2 mm. Such a spacing value promotes retention of the composition, by capillary action, between the arms.

[0157] The variant in figures 7 to 12 comprises only three loops, namely the central loop 1030 and upper 1050 and lower 1050' loops, all these loops extending along respective planes that are parallel to one another and to the longitudinal axis of the applicator member 10.

[0158] The applicator member 10 may have, as illustrated in figure 8 in particular, surface microstructuring, for example a network of microreliefs such as small spikes formed by molding material. These microreliefs have, for example, a height of between 0.05 and 2 mm.

[0159] They may be present on each of the loops, as can be seen in figure 9, over all or part of their surface, and preferably over the entire outer periphery of the loops. The presence of surface microstructuring makes it possible to increase the quantity of composition retained on the loops, while maintaining sufficient comfort of application due to the relatively small height of the microreliefs.

[0160] The variant in figures 13 to 17 comprises a central loop 1030 extending along a plane P2, and upper 1050 and lower 1050' loops extending along respective planes that are parallel to the plane P2 and to the longitudinal axis of the applicator member 10.

[0161] The loop 1030 carries a thin membrane 1035 having a thickness e2less than that ei of the strand forming the loop, as can be seen in figure 17.

[0162] The applicator member 10 also comprises a loop 1020 extending along a plane Pl perpendicular to the plane P2.

[0163] The loop 1020 comprises two opposite arcuate arms 1020a and 1020b which meet via the membrane 1035.

[0164] The loop 1020 carries a thin membrane 1025, the thickness of which is for example the same as that of the membrane 1035. The ratio of the thickness of the strand of material forming the loop 1020 to that of the membrane 1025 is for example the same as for the loop 1030 and the membrane 1035.

[0165] The presence of the membranes 1025 and 1035 makes it possible to increase the surface area for the capture of the composition by the applicator member 10. Their fineness makes it possible not to unduly stiffen the loops, which thus retain a certain degree of flexibility, and can thus deform when passing through the wiping member or when applying the composition to the skin or lips.

[0166] The applicator member 10 in figures 18 to 22 differs from that in figures 13 to 17 by the presence of openings 1026 on the membrane 1025.

[0167] The arrangement of the openings 1026 may be varied, these being disposed, for example, in two superposed rows extending along the longitudinal axis of the applicator member 10, as can be seen in figure 22.

[0168] The openings 1026 may be of any shape, for example being of circular shape as illustrated.

[0169] The presence of the openings 1026 makes it possible to further improve the retention of the composition on the applicator member 10 by capillary action, and can increase the flexibility of the membrane 1025. The applicator member 10 in figures 23 to 27 differs from that in figures 13 to 17 by the presence of openings both in the membrane 1025 carried by the loop 1020 and in the membrane 1035 carried by the loop 1030.

[0170] These openings are, for the membrane 1025, as can be seen notably in figure 27, in the form of windows 1027 with parallel edges 1027a, extending between the opposite arms 1020a and 1020b of the loop 1020, these edges 1027a being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the applicator member 10.

[0171] These openings are also, for the membrane 1035, in the form of windows 1037 with parallel edges 1037a, extending between the opposite arms 1030a and 1030b of the loop 1030, these edges 1037a being perpendicular to the axis X.

[0172] The windows 1027 and 1037 may have the same width, as illustrated, and occupy the same axial position along the axis X.

[0173] The windows 1027 delimit strips 1029 which extend between the arms 1020a and 1020b, and the windows 1037 likewise delimit strips 1039 which extend between the arms 1030a and 1030b.

[0174] The strips 1029 and 1039 are perpendicular to one another in the example illustrated, and form inside the loops 1020 and 1030 a very open and also flexible structure, capable of retaining the composition by capillary action and allowing good circulation of the composition through the applicator member when loading the applicator member with composition and passing it through the wiping member.

[0175] The number of strips 1029 present inside the loop 1020 is for example between 1 and 20, better still 2 and 10, even better 2 and 5, for example 3 or 4 as illustrated in figure 25. The width of a strip 1029 or 1039 ranges for example from 0.3 mm to 15 mm, better still from 1 mm to 10 mm, even better from 1 to 5 mm.

[0176] At least one window 1037 can be located in front of the loop 1020, as can be seen in figure 23, and the arms 1020a and 1020b of the loop 1020 can be connected to the strip 1039 adjacent to this window 1037.

[0177] The applicator member in figures 28 to 32 differs from that in figures 13 to 17 by the absence of the membrane 1025 carried by the loop 1020 and by the presence of an opening 1206 in the membrane 1035, this opening being passed through by the loop 1020. The loop 1020 extends along a plane Pl which is also a plane of symmetry for the applicator member 10, and the loop 1030 extends along a plane P2 perpendicular to the plane Pl.

[0178] The loops 1050 and 1050' extend along respective planes P6 and P6' that are parallel to the plane P2 and located on either side thereof, the plane P2 also being a plane of symmetry for the applicator member 10.

[0179] The loop 1030 is defined by a bead of material of thickness ei measured perpendicularly to the plane P2, the flexible membrane 1035 being of thickness e2.

[0180] The opening 1206 may widen toward the front, as can be seen in figure 30, in order to allow axial mobility of the loop 1020 during application, until the latter comes into abutment against the rear end 1207 of the opening 1206.

[0181] The opening 1206 also allows a certain degree of lateral mobility of the loop 1020 when the latter is away from the end 1207.

[0182] The applicator member in figures 33 to 36 differs from that in figures 2 to 6 by the presence of an arch 1420 connecting the loops 1050 and 1050' through the loops 1040, 1030 and 1040', as can be seen more particularly in figure 36.

[0183] The arch 1420 may extend in a plane Pl perpendicular to the plane Pl 00, have a concave shape toward the distal end of the applicator member 10, and is connected at its ends to the junction of the arms 1050a and 1050b of the loop 1050, on the one hand, and to the junction of the arms 1050a' and 1050b' of the loop 1050', on the other hand.

[0184] The arch 1420 may be formed by a strand of material of the same shape and section as that of the loops 1050 and 1050', or in a variant by a strand of material of different shape or section.

[0185] The arch 1420 may be symmetrical with respect to the plane Pl 00 of the loop 1030, which is thus a plane of symmetry for the applicator member in the example in question.

[0186] The presence of the arch 1420 makes it possible to increase the rigidity of the applicator member 10 in a direction perpendicular to the plane Pl 00 of the loop 1030, by reducing the flexibility of the distal end of the loops 1050 and 1050', and to improve the retention of the composition by the formation of additional capillary traps between the arch 1420 and the loops 1040, 1030 and 1040' through which it passes. The greater flexural rigidity in the plane Pl may be advantageous to limit the crushing of the loops 1050 or 1050' during application, and this can facilitate the transfer of the composition to the skin or lips, while maintaining good flexibility in the plane P2, thus facilitating the passage through the wiping member 6 and the replenishment of the composition within the applicator member 10.

[0187] The applicator member in figures 37 to 40 differs from that in figures 33 to 36 by the presence of an additional loop 1440 extending along the plane Pl, comprising two arms 1440a and 1440b connected at one end to the support part 12, and at the other end to the apex 1422 of the arch 1420, as can be seen in figure 40 in particular.

[0188] The apex 1421 may be located at a distance f from the distal end of the applicator member 10, this distance f being, for example, between 1 / 4 and 2 / 3 of the apparent length L of the applicator member, measured between its distal end and the shoulder 13.

[0189] Figure 40 shows that the arm 1440a can have a rectilinear portion 1440b tangential to the plane bearing on the upper edge of the loop 1050, so that the loop 1440 does not project beyond the loop 1050 outside the applicator member 10.

[0190] The exemplary embodiment in figures 41 to 44 differs from that in figures 37 to 40 by the presence of two arches 1070a and 1070b respectively connecting the apexes of the loops 1050 and 1050' to the apex 1032 of the loop 1030, and also by the shape of the loops 1040 and 1040'.

[0191] The arches 1070a and 1070b extend along the same plane as the arches 1140 and 1440, and may have substantially the same curvature as the portions of the arms 1030a and 1030b which are connected to the apex 1032 of the loop 1030.

[0192] The loop 1040 may have, as can be seen in figure 43 in particular, opposite arms 1040a and 1040b which have, close to their distal end, respective bends 1042a and 1042b, substantially at 90°, extended by rectilinear segments 1043a and 1043b, oriented inward and toward the rear, which meet at the junction of the arms 1040a and 1040b.

[0193] The same applies to the arm 1040', which is symmetrical to the arm 1040 with respect to the median plane along which the loop 1030 extends and which corresponds to the section plane in figure 43.

[0194] The presence of the arches 1070a and 1070b further stiffens the applicator member in a direction perpendicular to the plane in figure 43, thus allowing it to better withstand a force that tends to bring the loops 1050 and 1050' closer together, exerted during application. In addition, this further improves the capture of the composition by the applicator member, and makes it possible to use the tip of the applicator member for a precise application, the tip being more easily controllable.

[0195] The applicator member 10 shown in figures 45 to 50 has a projection 17 of generally flattened shape, extending the support part 12.

[0196] The projection 17 has a lower face 17a coming into the continuation of the support part 12, without forming a discontinuity therewith, of rounded shape and rising toward the distal end of the applicator member. The upper face 17b of the projection 17 has a central rib 17c, for example of semicircular section as illustrated in figure 50, the height of which decreases toward the distal end of the applicator member 10. This rib 17c tends to stiffen the projection 17.

[0197] A peripheral bead 180 extends around the periphery of the projection 17.

[0198] A loop 20 connects the support part 12 to the projection 17, extending along a plane Pl which is a median plane of symmetry for the applicator member 10, as can be seen in figure 46.

[0199] The applicator member 10 comprises a flexible loop 30 which extends along a plane P2 perpendicular to the plane Pl, the loop 30 extending substantially parallel to the bead 180, as can be seen in figure 50.

[0200] The distal part of the loop 30 extends so as to be slightly set back from the bead 180, while the width of the loop 30 is slightly greater than that of the projection 17, as illustrated in figure 50.

[0201] The applicator member 10 comprises two other flexible loops 140 and 150 which extend parallel to the plane P2, at different heights, the loop 150 having a length less than that of the loop 140, and the latter having a length less than that of the loop 30, giving the assembly, in side view as in figure 47, a stepped shape, the front edges of the projection 17 and of the loops 30 and 140 being substantially contained in a plane P5 forming an angle c with the axis X, this angle G being, for example, equal to approximately 45°, as illustrated.

[0202] The stepped shape inclined in this way of the head of the applicator member 10 makes it possible to define an application surface that is both flexible and beveled. The proximity of the loops 30, 140 and 150 promotes the retention by capillary action of the composition.

[0203] The back of the applicator member 10, defined by the surface of the projection 17 on the opposite side from the loop 30, can be used to spread the composition, if necessary. The inner space at the loops 30, 140 and 150 forms a composition reservoir, and the presence of the inner arch 20 promotes the retention of the composition by capillary action therein.

[0204] The front edge of the projection 17 can be used to draw a thin line, if necessary.

[0205] The applicator members 10 which have just been described with reference to figures 1 to 50 are free of spikes and are intended for application to the skin or lips.

[0206] Their structure makes it possible to avoid flocking the application surface, thus facilitating manufacturing. It is nevertheless possible to flock all or part of their surface, in order to further increase the retention of the composition.

[0207] It is also possible to provide at least part of the loops with application elements such as spikes, suitable for applying the composition to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows.

[0208] An example of integration of application elements such as spikes on an applicator member having the configuration of the one of the example in figures 28 to 32 will now be described, with reference to figures 51 to 55.

[0209] It thus comprises a loop 1020 which extends along a plane Pl which is also a plane of symmetry, and a loop 1030 which extends along a plane P2 perpendicular to the plane Pl.

[0210] The loop 1020 carries spikes 68, the longitudinal axes of which are contained in the plane Pl.

[0211] The loop 1030 carries spikes 65, the longitudinal axes of which are contained in the plane P2.

[0212] Two other loops 1050 and 1050' extend along respective planes P6 and P6' that are parallel to the plane P2, the plane P2 being a plane of symmetry for the applicator member 10.

[0213] The loop 1050 carries spikes 64, each extending obliquely so as to form an angle q with the plane P6, the angle q being, for example, of the order of 45°.

[0214] The loop 1050' carries spikes 66 that also form an angle q with the plane P6'.

[0215] The rows of spikes 68 provided on the opposite arms 1020a and 1020b of the loop 20 begin set back from the end 1022, in such a way that the ends of all the spikes 68 located on the arm 1020a protrude above the loop 1050, as can be seen in figure 55.

[0216] Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples that have just been described. In particular, the sectional shape of the arms can be modified in order to facilitate manufacture by injection molding. It is notably possible to provide the arms with a substantially triangular shape.

[0217] When it is produced by injection molding, the applicator member can be made in one piece by mono-injection, bi-inj ection or multi-injection.

[0218] In variants that are not illustrated, the applicator members described above without spikes may be provided with spikes, or any other application elements, or even any surface structuring.

[0219] It is possible to provide flocking, for example on the outer envelope of the loops or on the projection 17 described above, for example.

[0220] The expression "comprising a" should be understood as being synonymous with "comprising at least one", unless otherwise specified.

Claims

Claims1. An applicator (2) comprising: an applicator member (10) extending along a longitudinal axis (X), comprising: o at least one support part (12), o a plurality of loops (1030, 1040, 1040', 1050; 1050') defining respective inner spaces which are at least partially superposed when said loops are observed in a direction normal to said inner spaces, each loop being connected at its ends to the support portion, the loops extending along respective substantially parallel planes (Pl 00, P101, Pl 02, P101', Pl 02'), the loops having a shape elongated along the longitudinal axis of the applicator member, the distal ends of the loops being located at a distance from the support part (12) which decreases with increasing distance away from a median region of the applicator member, notably a central loop (1030), or the distal ends of the loops being located at a distance from the support part (12) which decreases from one side of the applicator member to the opposite side.

2. The applicator as claimed in claim 1, each loop having two proximal ends connected to the support part (12), these two proximal ends connecting to a, notably conical, surface of revolution of the support part or a planar surface, notably a planar surface perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X) of the applicator member.

3. The applicator as claimed in either one of the preceding claims, at least one of the loops (1030) of the plurality carrying a membrane (1035) over at least a portion of its inner periphery.

4. The applicator as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, the applicator member comprising at least one additional loop (1020) passing through the inner space of at least one other loop (1030) belonging to said plurality of loops.

5. The applicator as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, at least two loops (1050, 1050') of said plurality of loops being connected to one another by at least onebridge of material (1420), notably by an arch, the latter preferably connecting two end loops (1050, 1050') of the applicator member at their apex.

6. The applicator as claimed in the preceding claim, the arch (1420) being concave or convex toward the distal end of the applicator member.

7. The applicator as claimed in the preceding claim, the applicator member comprising a loop (1440), of which the proximal ends are connected to the support part (12) and the apex is connected to said arch (1420).

8. The applicator as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, the applicator member (10) comprising four arms (1030a, 1030b, 1070a, 1070b) meeting at the distal end thereof, two of these arms preferably belonging to one of the loops (1030) of said plurality, and the two other arms (1070a, 1070b) preferably extending in a plane perpendicular to a plane along which said loop (1030) extends, these two other arms (1070a, 1070b) being connected notably to the apex of the end loops (1050, 1050') of said plurality.

9. The applicator as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, the applicator member being free of flocking.

10. The applicator as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, the applicator member (10) comprising application elements (64, 65, 66, 68), which are notably carried by at least one of the loops (1030) of said plurality, and better still by each of the loops of the plurality.

11. The applicator as claimed in the preceding claim, the application elements carried by the end loops (1050, 1050') of said plurality extending obliquely away from a median plane of the applicator member, notably a plane along which a central loop (1030) of said plurality extends, the central loop preferably comprising application elements, preferably spikes, which are oriented parallel to said plane.

12. The applicator as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, the applicator member being made of an elastomeric material, notably a thermoplastic elastomer.

13. A packaging and application device comprising: a. an applicator (2) as defined in any one of the preceding claims, b. a container containing the composition to be applied, comprising a wiper (6) through which the applicator member (10) passes when it is withdrawn from the container.

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