FR3090300A1 - Applicator for applying a cosmetic product to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows. - Google Patents

Abstract

Applicator for applying a cosmetic product to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows. Applicator (2) for applying a cosmetic product (F) to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows, comprising a single-piece application member (8), the application member (8) comprising: a core (10) extending along a longitudinal axis (X), a plurality of application elements (18) extending from the core (10), the application elements (18) forming a plurality of almost contoured cavities -closed (26). Figure for the abstract: Fig. 2

Description

Description

Title of the invention: Applicator for applying a cosmetic product to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows.

The present invention relates to a cosmetic product applicator on the eyelashes and / or eyebrows, in particular a make-up or care product, for example mascara, and the corresponding packaging and application devices. The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing such an applicator and the associated makeup method.

Technical area

It is known from applications W02005023048 and DE20201105079 to use a cosmetic product applicator comprising application elements in the form of a loop.

International application WO2017 / 098134 describes a process for manufacturing a cosmetic product applicator on the eyelashes and / or eyebrows by additive synthesis and the corresponding applicator. The applicator includes an applicator member having a core and teeth extending from the core. Part of the teeth is loop-shaped and extends in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis of the core.

There is a need to further perfect the applicators for the application of a cosmetic product, in particular mascara, to the eyelashes and / or the eyebrows, in order to improve their performance, and allow, if necessary, the '' obtaining special makeup effects.

Summary of the invention

The invention aims to meet this objective and relates, according to one of its aspects, to an applicator for applying a cosmetic product to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows, comprising a single-piece application member, the application body comprising:

-a soul extending along a longitudinal axis,

a plurality of application elements extending from the core, the application elements forming a plurality of cavities of quasi-closed contour.

By "application elements" is meant individualizable projecting elements, intended to come into engagement with the eyelashes and / or eyebrows.

By "almost closed contour cavities" means that there is no continuous path of material in the contour of each of these cavities all around said cavity. Any path going around these cavities necessarily passes through an opening of the contour of said cavity constituting an area devoid of material.

By "longitudinal axis of the core" is meant the line joining all of the barycenters of the cross sections of the core. The longitudinal axis may be a central axis, or even an axis of symmetry for the core, in particular when the core has a circular cross section or in the general shape of a regular polygon.

By "monoblock", it is understood that the applicator member is made in one piece. The applicator member can be made from a single thermoplastic material. As a variant, the applicator member may comprise several materials, in particular parts made of different materials melted together at their junction during their manufacture so as to form only one piece. For example, the core comprises a core made of a flexible material covered with an envelope made of a more rigid material, the two materials being melted together at their junctions.

The cavity allows to accumulate the product by surface tension and thus to increase the autonomy of the applicator and / or to increase the load capacity of the applicator, without losing the separation capacity. and combing eyelashes.

Such a cavity can also provide the application element with a certain flexibility if desired, in particular for passing through the wiping member equipping the container from which the composition is taken.

The fact that the cavity is of almost closed contour can allow the passage of at least one eyelash or eyebrow in the cavity and / or to feed the surface of the application element in contact with the eyelashes and / or eyebrows as a cosmetic product contained in the cavity. This also gives the application element a certain flexibility, which can facilitate the extraction of the application element from the reservoir, allow better loading of the product on the eyelashes and / or eyebrows and / or better comfort. of use of the application member. When the applicator comes into contact with the skin, the opening can at least partially close, making the contact of the applicator on the skin more comfortable.

The applicator may include a rod to which the applicator member is fixed, in particular having a housing in which is held a tip of the applicator member. Preferably, the endpiece extends along the longitudinal axis of the core, which can be straight or curved.

The applicator can be symmetrical about its longitudinal axis.

The applicator may not have a plane of symmetry.

The application member is preferably obtained by an additive synthesis process.

The fact that the applicator is obtained by additive synthesis allows it to be obtained in a single step, the various constituent elements of the applicator having come into one with each other without it being necessary to use a mold.

The applicator member can be obtained from a pre-established digital model by solidification of a raw material slice by slice from a second longitudinal end of the applicator towards the first longitudinal end of the enforcement body.

Preferably, the applicator member is made of a material chosen from semi-crystalline thermoplastic materials, in particular a polyamide such as Nylon 12. These materials make it possible to obtain parts of good mechanical and thermal resistance. As a variant, the applicator member is made of a material chosen from materials which can be polymerized by light irradiation, in particular photo-crosslinkable materials, materials which can be polymerized by catalysis or materials which can be polymerized by application of heat, in particular heat-crosslinkable materials. This allows manufacturing by an additive synthesis process in which the solidification of the material is done by light irradiation, in particular using a laser, by localized catalysis or by localized application of heat.

In another variant, the applicator member is made of a material chosen from ceramics or metals.

The applicator member may have an envelope surface of cross section which varies over all or part of the length of the applicator member. The cross-section of the envelope surface may decrease when approaching at least one of the proximal and distal ends of the applicator member, preferably closer to the distal ends of the applicator member. This in particular facilitates the application of the cosmetic product to the eyelashes at the corner of the eye.

Preferably, the envelope surface is defined by the distal ends of at least part of the application elements, in particular those having a cavity.

The longitudinal axis of the core can be straight or have one or more curvatures between its distal and proximal ends. Preferably, the longitudinal axis of the core is rectilinear, and coincides with the longitudinal axis of a rod supporting the application member.

The core may have a cross section of circular or polygonal shape, such as square, rectangular or triangular. By "cross section" means any section made in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the core.

The core may have a constant cross section from its proximal end to its distal end. As a variant, the core has a cross section of variable shape and / or size along its longitudinal axis. For example, the cross-section may decrease when approaching a distal and / or proximal end. Preferably, the section decreases closer to the distal end of the applicator member.

The core can be full or hollow.

The core may have longitudinal openings. These allow you to accumulate product. Thus, the autonomy of the applicator and its load capacity in cosmetic product is increased. Openwork can also allow flexibility of the soul.

The core may have at least one helical groove rotating around the longitudinal axis of the core, preferably at least two helical grooves rotating around the longitudinal axis of the core, opposite and similarly not. Such grooves allow the creation of cosmetic product reserves on the core.

Preferably, the helical groove or grooves extend around the longitudinal axis over at least one turn, preferably over a plurality of turns, in particular between 2 and 60 turns, better still between 3 and 40 turns over the entire length of the 'implementing body.

Alternatively, the core is cylindrical.

Advantageously, the cosmetic composition intended to be applied to the eyelashes and / or the eyebrows is a mascara composition. A mascara composition conventionally has a viscosity at 25 ° C greater than 5 Pa.s, in particular between 5 Pa.s and 50 Pa.s, in particular measured using a Rhéomat RM100® device.

Such a mascara composition conventionally comprises a dry extract, generally in an amount greater than or equal to 35% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition, a pulverulent coloring matter, in particular one or more pigments, in particular one or more metal oxides. , for example one or more iron oxides, and advantageously a film-forming polymer. A mascara composition can also conventionally comprise one or more waxes, in a total amount in particular of between 5 and 40% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition.

In the context of the present invention, the applicator is particularly suitable for the application of a relatively fluid mascara composition. Indeed, a mascara composition having a relatively low viscosity will be particularly well retained, in particular by surface tension, within the almost closed contour cavity formed in the application element or between two adjacent application elements, while can be easily removed by contact with an eyelash or an eyebrow and be deposited thereon, this contacting causing a rupture of the surface tension existing between the mascara composition and said cavity.

Preferably, the applicator member has between 8 and 200 almost closed contour cavities.

Preferably, all of the application elements of the application member each at least partially form a closed or almost-closed contour cavity, preferably an almost closed contour cavity.

Alternatively, the applicator member includes additional applicator elements which do not form a quasi-closed contour cavity. Such additional application elements can be of any form. For example, they are shaped like pins or teeth. They may be straight or not, in particular having a curved end. They may have an enlarged distal portion.

Preferably, the application elements forming the almost closed contour cavities are arranged on the core according to one or more rows of application elements. The row or rows may be rectilinear, extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the core or not, for example extending helically around the core.

Preferably, the row or rows of applicator elements extend helically around the longitudinal axis of the core, in particular following a helix having the same pitch as the helical groove or grooves and preferably at equal distance from the two helical grooves when two grooves are present.

The helical row or rows of application elements may extend around the longitudinal axis of the core over at least one turn, in particular a plurality of turns, preferably between 2 and 60 turns, better between 3 and 40 turns over the entire length of the applicator member. Such a quantity of turns allows the applicator member to have an aspect supplied with applicator elements and gives the impression that the applicator elements are arranged in a random manner.

The application elements can extend in at least two helical rows around the longitudinal axis of the core, in particular in the case where the core has at least two grooves, the rows possibly being parallel to the grooves.

The or each row can have a number of application elements between 2 and 500 elements, better still, between 5 and 300.

Preferably, the row or rows of application elements each extend between the turns of the groove or grooves, in particular equidistant from the latter.

As a variant, the row or rows of application elements each extend along the groove or grooves.

In another variant, at least one row of application elements extends between the turns of the groove or grooves and at least one row of application elements extends along the or one of the grooves.

Preferably, the application elements forming the quasi-closed contour cavities are distributed in at least two helical rows around the longitudinal axis of the web nested therebetween.

Preferably, all the application elements of at least one row each at least partially form a cavity, preferably an almost closed contour cavity. Preferably, such a row alternates with rows of additional application elements on the core as described above, in particular in the form of pins. This allows both good separation of the eyelashes and / or eyebrows, in particular by the additional application elements and a good load of cosmetic product of the eyelashes and eyebrows.

As a variant, part of the application elements of at least one row each at least partially form a cavity, in particular a cavity with an almost closed contour. For example, the row has alternating application elements which at least partially form a cavity with a quasi-closed contour and additional application elements, in particular in the form of pins.

Preferably, the consecutive application elements of a row are all spaced by the same distance, defined between the axes of extension of two consecutive application elements at their base, between 0.1 mm and 5 mm, better between 0.5 mm and 1 mm.

The application elements can extend in at least two rows parallel to the longitudinal axis of the core, better still at least four rows, preferably between five and twelve rows, for example nine rows. Each row can have a number of application elements between 2 and 20 elements, better between 5 and 15, for example approximately 7.

At least part of the distal ends of the applicator elements can define an envelope surface of the applicator member. Preferably, the envelope surface is defined by the distal end of the application elements forming the cavities of quasi-closed contour.

The envelope surface may have a rectilinear longitudinal axis and coincide with the longitudinal axis of the core.

The envelope surface can be symmetrical in revolution around the longitudinal axis of the core and have a circular cross section.

The cross-section of the envelope surface may decrease when approaching at least one of the proximal and distal ends of the applicator member, preferably closer to the distal end of the applicator member.

In what follows, the almost closed contour cavities are characterized in isolation. The characteristics are described for a quasi-closed contour cavity but are applicable alone or in combination with each of the quasi-closed contour cavities of the applicator member.

Preferably, the almost closed contour cavity is through.

Preferably, the contour of the quasi-closed contour cavity has an opening towards the outside with a width less than or equal to 0.3 mm, better than 0.2 mm, even better than 0.1 mm.

The almost closed contour cavity can be formed by a single application element or by the proximity of two adjacent application elements. The opening can be formed

- between two branches of an application element whose free ends are spaced by a non-zero distance, the space between the two branches forms in particular an opening as described above,

- between a single branch of an application element and the core, the free end of the branch being spaced from the core by a non-zero distance, the space between the branch and the core forms in particular an opening as described above, or

- between the branches of two adjacent application elements, the free ends of which are spaced apart by a non-zero distance, the space between the two branches notably forming an opening as described above. At least one of these two branches is non-rectilinear perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the core.

We can give the section of the branch or branches of the application element or elements forming the almost closed contour cavity any shape depending on the desired characteristics, and in particular a constant cross section or not. The contour of the quasi-closed contour cavity can be given a thinned shape in places to locally provide more flexibility.

Preferably, the almost closed contour cavity extends at a distance from the core less than or equal to 10% of the height of the application element or elements forming it, preferably at a zero distance from the core. As a variant, the almost closed contour cavity can be spaced from the core, in particular extending to a height greater than or equal to 10%, better greater than or equal to 25%, even better still greater than or equal to 50% of the height of the application element (s) forming it.

The almost closed contour cavity can have a substantially rounded contour, for example oval, in particular circular or polygonal, in particular triangular, square, pentagonal or hexagonal.

The almost closed contour cavity may have a larger dimension greater than 0.1 mm, preferably between 0.2 mm and 4 mm, better still between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm.

The almost closed contour cavity can be delimited by one or more branches of one or more application elements.

The branch or branches delimiting the almost closed contour cavity can be plane and define a median cavity plane for the latter, the plane of the cavity being in particular a plane of symmetry of the cavity.

The plane of the cavity can be a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis of the core or a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis of the core.

The almost closed contour cavity can be symmetrical with respect to an axis of symmetry, preferably contained in the plane of the cavity.

The quasi-closed contour cavity can be symmetrical along at least one plane of symmetry, better still two planes of symmetry orthogonal to each other, in particular the plane of the cavity and a plane orthogonal to the plane of the cavity.

The branch (es) delimiting the almost closed contour cavity may have a cross section of circular or polygonal shape, in particular of square, rectangular, or triangular shape.

The branch or branches delimiting the almost closed contour cavity may have cross sections with an area between 0.04 and 1 mm ² over at least a quarter, better at least half, better still three-quarters and even better the whole of the outline.

Or the branches delimiting the almost closed contour cavity may have a thickness greater than or equal to 0.1 mm, preferably between 0.2 and 2 mm, better still between 0.25 and 0.5 mm, in particular close to 0.3 mm.

The branch or branches delimiting the almost closed contour cavity may have a constant cross section along the almost closed contour cavity. In the case where the quasi-closed contour cavity is delimited by several branches, said branches may have the same cross section along the quasi-closed contour cavity.

As a variant, the branch or branches delimiting the almost closed contour cavity have a variable section along the contour of the almost closed contour cavity. For example, the branch or branches delimiting the almost closed contour cavity have a cross section varying monotonically or passing through an extremum, in particular a minimum, along the contour of the cavity starting from the core. The opening of the contour of the cavity can be at a non-zero distance from the core, in particular opening into the distal half of the cavity, preferably substantially at the distal end of the cavity. This makes the product contained in the cavity more easily accessible to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows.

As a variant, the opening of the contour of the cavity is in the proximal part of the contour of the cavity, for example at the or at one or one of the proximal ends of the branch or branches forming the contour of the cavity.

Preferably, the opening of the contour of the cavity has a constant width over the entire thickness of the branch or branches between which it extends. As a variant, the width is variable over the thickness of the branch (es).

The branch or branches delimiting the almost closed contour cavity may have a non-rectilinear distal portion, in particular a curved portion. Preferably, the distal portion has a constant curvature, in particular a radius of curvature of between 5% and 40% of the height of the corresponding branch.

As previously mentioned, the almost closed contour cavity can be formed by a single application element in the form of an open loop, in particular of a flat loop.

The application element forming the almost closed contour cavity can extend along an elongation axis defined by the line joining the barycenters of the cross sections of the application element. Preferably, the elongation axis is straight. The elongation axis can be a radial axis of the longitudinal axis of the core.

The applicator element forming the quasi-closed contour cavity can be symmetrical with respect to its axis of elongation, if one disregards the opening in the contour of the quasi-closed contour cavity.

Preferably, the application element forming the quasi-closed contour cavity has a plane of symmetry, better still two orthogonal planes of symmetry between them, apart from the opening in the contour of the quasi-closed contour cavity.

The applicator element forming the almost closed contour cavity may include at least one branch connecting to its base with the core, better still two separate branches connecting to their base with the core.

The application element forming the almost closed contour cavity may have a width greater than or equal to 0.3 mm, preferably between 0.5 and 8 mm, better still between 1 and mm.

The height of each application element, measured from the core to its distal end along its axis of elongation, can be between 0.2 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 0.5 mm and 3 mm.

The application element forming the almost closed contour cavity may have surface reliefs extending over at least part of an external and / or internal surface, preferably external. The number of surface reliefs can be between 1 and 30, better between 1 and 10. This allows better attachment of the eyelashes, which facilitates the application of the cosmetic product and the separation of the eyelashes. The relief can also constitute, in particular when it is present on the external surface, an additional zone of accumulation of the product. These zones allow a better load of the eyelashes and / or eyebrows in cosmetic product.

The surface relief or reliefs may be reliefs projecting from the surface of the application element, in particular from the external surface of the application element.

The surface relief (s) of convex shape towards the outside may be in the form of a boss. Each application element may have at least two surface reliefs in the form of an outward boss, defining between them a hollow zone. The hollow area allows the accumulation of product at an easy distance from the eyelashes. The hollow area can be concave outward or not. The hollow zone can have a maximum depth of between 0.05 mm and 3 mm.

"Maximum depth" means the distance between the highest point of the surface with the reliefs and the lowest point thereof projected along the elongation axis of the element.

The boss-like relief or reliefs may be in front view of the application element in the form of a polygon, for example of a rectangle or of a triangle, preferably in the form of a rectangle. This allows good separation of the eyelashes and / or eyebrows.

As a variant, the surface relief or reliefs are of rounded shape, in particular when they extend outwards. The presence of rounded reliefs can also make the contact of the applicator member with the eyelids or the eyelashes softer, in particular when the latter have rounded edges. This can encourage the user to approach the application member as close as possible to the eye, which makes it possible to apply the cosmetic product to the base of the eyelashes or encourage him to exert greater pressure with the organ. of application on the eyelashes and / or eyebrows, which can lead to a better load of cosmetic product on the eyelashes.

The relief or reliefs in the form of a rounded boss may have an external edge in the form of a semicircle in front view of the application element, having a radius of curvature of between 0.05 mm and 1.5 mm.

Or the surface reliefs may be, in front view of the application element, of wavy shape having a succession of arcs having the same concavity or an alternating concavity.

The applicator element forming the almost closed contour cavity may have one or more grooves. Such grooves can make it possible to constitute a reserve of product. The grooves are preferably annular.

The applicator element forming the almost closed contour cavity may have one or more protuberances, preferably in the form of pins, extending over at least part of an external and or internal surface, in particular between 1 and 40 protuberances, preferably between 1 and 30 protuberances, even better between 1 and 25 protuberances.

Preferably, the protuberance (s) extend perpendicular to said surface.

Preferably, the protuberance (s) may extend in a longitudinal plane of the application element.

As a variant, the protuberance (s) extend in a plane transverse to the application element.

As previously mentioned, the opening can be formed between two branches of an application element whose free ends are spaced from the distance mentioned above to form between them the opening of the contour of the cavity. almost closed outline. At least one of these two branches is non-rectilinear perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the core. Each of these two branches can extend along a non-rectilinear extension axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the core.

In this case, the opening of the outline of the cavity is located at a non-zero distance from the core. The applicator element forming the almost closed contour cavity is then connected to the core by the two branches.

Preferably, the opening of the contour of the cavity is positioned in the distal half of the application element.

The two branches of the application element forming the almost closed contour cavity can be substantially the same length, the opening being substantially arranged in the center of the application element, in particular at the distal end of the application element.

The two branches can be substantially the same height, measured from the core along the elongation axis of the application element.

The two branches of the application element can be of substantially identical shapes, except for one orientation. Alternatively, the two branches of the application element can be of different shapes.

Preferably, each branch has a proximal portion connected to the core, preferably rectilinear and a non-rectilinear distal portion. By “non-rectilinear distal portion”, it is understood that the branch has a change of direction at the level of its distal portion. The change of direction can be gradual, the distal portion being a curved portion, or straight, the distal portion having a slope break. The non-rectilinear distal portion is for example bent or curved.

Preferably, the distal portion is curved. It can have a constant curvature. For example, it can form an arc, concave or convex inward. Preferably, the distal portion has a radius of curvature between 0.2 mm and 2 mm, preferably substantially equal to 0.3 mm.

Preferably, the distal portion has a radius of curvature between 5% and 40% of the height of the branch, better between 10% and 25%, even better between 15% and 20%.

Preferably, the distal portion has an angular extent relative to its center of curvature between 1 ° and 269, better still between 90 ° and 180 °.

Preferably, the distal portion has a concave curvature towards the core.

As a variant, the distal portion is bent, the distal portion having a break in slope of angle between 1 ° and 179 °.

Alternatively, one of the two branches is shorter than the other. The opening of the contour of the cavity can be positioned close to the core.

The free ends of the two branches may have facing planar faces or faces of complementary shapes, in particular a male part and a female part respectively. For example, the free ends of the two branches have faces of complementary shapes in the form of U, V, zigzag.

As previously mentioned, the opening of the contour of the cavity can be formed between a single branch of an application element and the core, the free end of the branch being opposite the soul and spaced from the soul by the distance mentioned above.

In this case, the opening is positioned at the connection of the application element forming the contour cavity almost closed to the core.

The branch may have a constant section of its base to which it connects to the core at its free end.

As a variant, the branch has a section of variable size from its base connected to the core at its free end. For example, the cross-section can decrease starting from the branch towards its free end. The branch then has a wider base than the distal end.

As a variant, the section of the branch passes through at least one extremum, in particular a minimum, along the cavity. The branch may in particular have a base and / or a tapered free end (s).

Preferably, the branch is concave towards the core to form the cavity. It can be curved, in particular of constant curvature at least over a distal portion. Said distal portion may have a radius of curvature between 0.2 mm and 2 mm, preferably substantially equal to 0.3 mm.

Preferably, said distal portion has a radius of curvature between 5% and 40% of the height of the application element, better between 10% and 25%, even better between 15% and 20%.

The free end of the branch may have a flat face facing the core or a face of complementary shape to the surface of the core.

As previously mentioned, the opening of the contour of the cavity can be formed between at least two branches of adjacent application elements spaced by the distance mentioned above. For example, the branches of adjacent application elements have a succession of broken arcs which start from the core and define teeth, two of which are close enough that a quasi-closed cavity is formed between they. Thus, at least one of the adjacent application elements can have a non-rectilinear extension axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the core.

In this case, the opening of the outline of the cavity is located at a non-zero distance from the core.

The branches of the adjacent application elements can be bent or curved.

The application elements can at least partially form a plurality of almost closed contour cavities, in particular two almost closed contour cavities.

Preferably, the application elements forming the almost closed contour cavity are in the same row of application element. As a variant, the application elements forming the almost closed contour cavity are in two rows of different application elements, the cavity being formed between the two rows.

Preferably, the opening of the contour of the cavity is positioned in the distal half of the two application elements.

The two branches forming the almost closed contour cavity can be substantially the same length.

The two branches can be substantially the same height, measured from the core along the elongation axis of the application element.

The two branches can be of substantially identical shapes, except for one orientation. As a variant, the two branches can be of different shapes.

Preferably, each branch has a proximal portion connected to the core, preferably rectilinear and a non-rectilinear distal portion. By “non-rectilinear distal portion”, it is understood that the branch has a change of direction at the level of its distal portion. The change of direction can be gradual, the distal portion being a curved portion, or straight, the distal portion having a slope break. The non-rectilinear distal portion may for example be bent or curved.

Preferably, the distal portion is curved. It can have a constant curvature. For example, it can form an arc, concave or convex inward. Preferably, the distal portion has a radius of curvature between 0.2 mm and 2 mm, preferably substantially equal to 0.3 mm.

Preferably, the distal portion has a radius of curvature between 5% and 40% of the height of the branch, better between 10% and 25%, even better between 15% and 20%.

Preferably, the distal portion has an angular extent relative to its center of curvature of between 1 ° and 269 °, better still between 90 ° and 180 °. Preferably, the distal portion has a concave curvature towards the core.

As a variant, the distal portion is bent, the distal portion having a break in slope of angle between 1 ° and 179 °.

Alternatively, one of the two branches is shorter than the other. The opening of the contour of the almost closed contour cavity can be positioned close to the core.

The free ends of the two branches may have opposite planar faces or faces of complementary shapes, in particular a male part and a female part respectively. For example, the free ends of the two branches have faces of complementary shapes in the form of U, V, zigzag.

The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing an applicator according to the invention as defined above, in which a blank of the application member or the application member is produced by successive layers itself from a digital model of the applicator or the application member.

Such a method makes it possible to manufacture an applicator in a single step, the different elements of the applicator having come into one with one another without the need to use a mold.

Such a method also makes it possible to have new forms of applicator, in particular impossible to produce by injection molding in a single piece due to the presence of undercuts.

The method can include:

(i) the development of a digital model of the applicator, (ii) the solidification of a raw material that can flow according to the digital model.

The raw material is preferably a pulverulent material. In this case, step (ii) can be carried out by sintering the powdery raw material layer by layer.

As a variant, the raw material is liquid, in particular it is made of a photocrosslinkable material. In step (ii), the raw material can be solidified slice by slice by irradiation of the photocrosslinkable raw material.

The manufacturing process by additive synthesis can be a filament deposition printing process (FDM), stereolithography (SLA), the Multi Jet Fusion technique (MLF), selective laser sintering (SLS) or by Digital Light Processing (DLP), in particular by CLIP (Continuous Liquid Interface Production), preferably by MLF.

Preferably, the manufacturing process is a Multi Jet Fusion technique. This process can include the steps of:

a) depositing a layer of the pulverulent material on a printing medium, b) distributing one or more coalescing agents and coalescing modifiers on parts of the layer determined from the digital model of the application member,

c) applying energy to the layer of the pulverulent material, in particular by light irradiation in the infrared or near infrared, so as to cause the parts on which the coalescing agent (s) have been applied to melt at least partially

d) cooling the layer of pulverulent material to solidify the molten parts, e) repeating steps a) to d), the layer of pulverulent material previously deposited forming the printing medium, to produce continuously by successive layers of adherent solid parts to each other so as to form the applicator member.

Preferably, the pulverulent material is a powdered semi-crystalline thermoplastic material, in particular a polyamide such as Nylon 12 or PA2200. As a variant, the pulverulent material is a metallic, composite, ceramic, glass or resin material.

The coalescing agent (s) may be an ink type composition comprising carbon black, for example the ink composition CM997A available in particular from the company Hewlett-Packard Company. The coalescing agent (s) may additionally comprise an infrared and / or near infrared and / or visible light absorber, in particular the ink compositions CE039A and CE042A available in particular from Hewlett-Packard Company.

The coalescing modifier (s) may be a colloidal ink, a dye-based ink, or a polymer-based ink. The coalescing modifier (s) may comprise solid or solution compounds, in particular a saline solution. The coalescing modifier (s) may be the ink composition CM996A or CN673A available in particular from Hewlett-Packard Company. Preferably, the layer of pulverulent material has a thickness of between 90 and 110 microns.

Preferably, the printing plate has a dimension ranging from 10 cm by 10 cm to 100 cm by 100 cm.

The method of manufacturing the applicator can be as described in international application WO2015106816.

As a variant, the manufacturing process by additive synthesis comprises:

a) the localized irradiation by a light source, in particular a laser, in a predefined formation zone of a fluid photocrosslinkable material contained in a tank to form one or more solid parts polymerized in the polymerizable material in said formation zone, the or the solid polymerized parts being attached to a support, the location (s) of the irradiation in the predefined training area being determined from the digital model of the application member,

b) the displacement of the support and of the polymerized solid parts attached thereto relative to the light source away from the formation zone in order to free the zone of formation of the polymerized solid parts, the formation zone again filling with the fluid photocrosslinkable material ,

c) repeating steps a) and b) to continuously produce in successive layers solid parts adhering to each other so as to form the applicator member.

The tank preferably comprises a surface in fluid communication with a source of polymerization inhibitor, step a) being carried out while forming or maintaining a fluid zone between the predefined formation zone and said surface, fluid zone in which the polymerization of the fluid photocrosslinkable material is inhibited by the polymerization inhibitor.

Preferably, the polymerization inhibitor is oxygen.

Preferably, the fluid zone has a height less than or equal to 1 mm, preferably between 500 pm and 0.01 pm, better still between 100 pm and 10 pm.

Preferably, the localized irradiation and the movement of the support are continuous, the fluid zone and the formation zone having at their interface a polymerization gradient, so that the manufacture of the application member is substantially continuous. This makes it possible to limit the presence of visible strata as in the manufacturing processes by additive synthesis manufacturing the object layer by layer.

The method preferably includes an additional step of heating the application member formed. This makes it possible to stiffen the structure of the manufactured application member and to smooth its surface.

The method of manufacturing the applicator can be as described in international applications WO2014126830 and WO2014126837.

The invention also relates to a method for making up the eyelashes and / or eyebrows by means of an applicator according to the invention as defined above, in which the product is applied by bringing the applicator into contact with the eyelashes. and / or eyebrows.

Brief description of the figures

The invention can be better understood on reading the detailed description which follows, of non-limiting examples of implementation thereof, and on examining the appended drawing, in which:

[Fig.lA] shows an application and packaging device according to the invention.

[Fig.lB] is a schematic perspective perspective view of an applicator member of an applicator according to the invention.

[Fig.lC] is a schematic perspective perspective view of a core of an applicator member of an applicator according to the invention.

[Fig.2] shows an application element according to a first embodiment.

[Fig.3] shows an application element according to a first embodiment.

[Fig.4] shows an application element according to a first embodiment.

[Fig.5] shows an application element according to a first embodiment.

[Fig.6] shows an application element according to a first embodiment.

[Fig.7] shows an application element according to a first embodiment.

[Fig.8] shows an application element according to a first embodiment.

[Fig.9] shows an application element according to a first embodiment.

[Fig.10] shows an application element according to a first embodiment.

[Fig.l 1] shows an application element according to a first embodiment.

[Fig. 12] represents an application element according to a first embodiment.

[Fig. 13] shows an application element according to a first embodiment.

[Fig. 14] shows an application element according to a second embodiment.

[Fig. 15] represents an application element according to a second embodiment.

[Fig. 16] shows an application element according to a second embodiment.

[Fig. 17] represents an application element according to a second embodiment

[Fig. 18] represents an application element according to a second embodiment

[Fig. 19] represents an application element according to a second embodiment

[Fig.20] shows an application element according to a second embodiment

[Fig.21] shows an application element according to a second embodiment

[Fig.22] shows an application element according to a second embodiment

[Fig.23] shows an application element according to a second embodiment

[Fig.24] shows an application element according to a first embodiment

[Fig.25] shows an application element according to a first embodiment

[Fig.26] shows an application element according to a first embodiment

[Fig.27] shows an application element according to a third embodiment

[Fig.28] shows an application element according to a third embodiment

[Fig.29] shows an application element according to a third embodiment

[Fig.30A] illustrates a step in a process for manufacturing the application member according to the invention

[Fig. 30B] illustrates a step in a process for manufacturing the application member according to the invention

[0100] [fig.30C] illustrates a step in a process for manufacturing the application member according to the invention

[Fig. 30D] illustrates a step in a process for manufacturing the applicator member according to the invention

[0102] [fig.30F] illustrates a step in a process for manufacturing the application member according to the invention

[0303] [fig.30E] illustrates a step in a process for manufacturing the application member according to the invention

[Fig. 31] illustrates a process for manufacturing the applicator member according to the invention

[0105] [fig.32] illustrates steps of a variant method of manufacturing the applicator member according to the invention

[Fig. 33] illustrates steps of a variant method of manufacturing the applicator member according to the invention

detailed description

FIG. 1a shows a device 1 for packaging and application produced in accordance with the invention, comprising an applicator 2 and an associated container 3 containing a cosmetic product F to be applied to the eyelashes and / or the eyebrows , for example mascara or a skincare product.

The container 3 comprises, in the example considered, a threaded neck 4 and the applicator 2 comprises a gripping member 5 also constituting a closure cap for the container 2. The latter is designed to be fixed on the neck 4 in order to close the container 3 tightly when not in use.

The container 3 can also be produced otherwise.

The applicator 2 comprises a rod 7 with a longitudinal axis Xt, which is connected at its upper end to the closure cap 5 and, at its lower end, to an applicator member 8 according to the invention. The latter comprises a core 10 carrying application elements 15, extending from the core 10 and preferably all around it.

The container 3 also includes a wiping member 6, for example inserted in the neck 4.

This wiping member 6, which can be any, comprises in the example considered a lip arranged to wipe the rod 7 and the application member 8 when the applicator 2 is removed from the container 3. The lip defines an orifice wring 6a of diameter adapted to that of the rod.

The wiper member 6 can be made of elastomer.

The wiping member 6 may include a wiping orifice 6a of circular shape, possibly with slots.

The diameter of the wiping orifice 6a of the wiping member 6 is for example between 2.5 and 6 mm.

The wiper member 6 may optionally have undulations, allowing the wiper orifice to widen more easily when the applicator member 8 passes.

The wiper can still be adjustable, if necessary.

In the example illustrated, the rod 7 has a circular cross section but it is not beyond the scope of the present invention when the rod 7 has a different section, the fixing of the cap 5 on the container 3 can then be carried out other than by screwing. The wiping member 6 is adapted to the shape of the rod 7 and to that of the application member 8.

Preferably, and as in the example considered, the longitudinal axis Xt of the rod 7 is rectilinear and coincides with the longitudinal axis of the container 3 when the applicator 2 is in place thereon, but one does not exit of the framework of the present invention when the rod 7 is not straight, for example forming an elbow.

The rod 7 may comprise, if necessary, an annular constriction on its portion which comes to be positioned facing the lip of the wiping member 6, so as not to mechanically stress the latter excessively during storage.

The rod 7 to which the applicator member 8 is fixed may be at least partially, in particular entirely, flexible, in particular near the applicator member.

The application member 8 is fixed to the rod 7 by any means and in particular by force fitting, snap-fastening, bonding, stapling or crimping welding, in a corresponding housing provided at the end of the rod 7.

As illustrated in FIG. 1b, the applicator member 8 may include a nozzle 9 allowing it to be fixed in a corresponding housing of the rod 7.

[0112] The applicator member 8 has a core 10 and a plurality of applicator elements 18 extending from the core 10.

The core 10 is of elongated shape along a longitudinal axis X. The longitudinal axis X is rectilinear but as a variant could have another shape, for example curved. The longitudinal axis X is central, but it could be otherwise.

The length H of the core 10 can, for example, be between 15 mm and 27 mm.

The applicator member has applicator elements 18 in the form of an open loop and each has an opening situated for example at its connection with the core, as illustrated, thus forming a cavity with a quasi-closed contour.

The application elements are aligned at their base with each other to form a plurality of longitudinal rows.

In the example illustrated, the applicator member comprises two different kinds of applicator elements, applicator elements forming cavities of almost closed outline and applicator elements in the form of pins. The loop-shaped application elements form rows of application elements and the pin-shaped application elements form other rows of application elements alternating with the previous rows. The invention is however not limited to the arrangement of application elements below. In a variant not illustrated, the application elements all form cavities with a quasi-closed contour or the rows of application elements can have alternating application elements of different shapes.

In the example illustrated in Figure 1b, the rows are rectilinear and extend over the core along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the core. However, it could be otherwise, and in particular the rows can extend helically around the core by following a helix of fixed pitch or not as illustrated in FIG. In this example, the core 10 has two grooves 16 and 17 each rotating around the longitudinal axis of the core X by following two respective helices 13 and 15. The two propellers 13 and 15 are opposite each other relative to the longitudinal axis X and similarly not. The propellers 13 and 15 rotate around the X axis over more than one turn, in particular over more than 6 turns, for example over 9 turns.

The distance Δ _ε between two consecutive application elements of the same row can be between 0.05 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 0.5 mm and 1 mm.

Examples of application elements according to the invention are described in relation to Figures 2 to 13 below.

Illustrated in Figures 2 to 13 examples in which a cavity 26 is formed by a single application element 18. In this embodiment, the application element 18 comprises a branch 20 concave towards the soul forming a cavity. The branch is connected to the core by a single base 21a, the other end 21b of the branch being free and facing the core. The space between the free end 21b and the core defines an opening 29 of the outline of the cavity 26. The free end 21b is spaced from the core by a distance e less than or equal to 0.3 mm, better at 0.2 mm, even better at 0.1 mm.

The fact of having an opening with a width e as described above makes it possible in particular to form a composition bridge by capillarity.

The application element 18 extends along an elongation axis Y, the latter being perpendicular to the core 10.

The height L of the application element 18, measured from the core along the elongation axis Y, can be between 0.2 mm and 5 mm, better still between 0.5 mm and 3 mm.

The applicator element 18 has a width d calculated perpendicular to the elongation axis Y, between 0.3 mm and 8 mm.

The contour of the cavity 26 has, in front view of the application element, a quasi-circular shape.

The ratio w / d, w being the maximum width of the cavity 26, is for example between% and 90%, preferably between 25% and 80%.

The ratio L _c / L, L _c being the height of the cavity 26, is for example between 10% and 90%, preferably between 25 and 80%.

In the example illustrated in Figure 2, the branch 20 of the application element 18 has an inverted U shape. The branch 20 comprises a first lateral portion 22a extending from the core along an axis P _a , a central portion 22b, in particular in the form of an arc of a circle, which is connected to the upper end of the first arm 22a and which is convex towards the outside and a second lateral portion 22c connected to the central portion and extending towards the core along an axis of extension P _c . In the example illustrated, the two axes P _a and P _c are substantially rectilinear, preferably perpendicular to the core and parallel to each other.

The second lateral portion 22c is spaced from the web 10 by the distance e by a value as mentioned above.

The central portion 22b has a rounded outer edge in the form of a semicircle having a radius of curvature between 0.2 mm and 2 mm, preferably substantially equal to 0.3 mm.

Preferably, the central portion _22b has a radius of curvature r of between 5% and 40% of the height L of the application element, better between 10% and 25%, even better between 15% and 20%. In the example illustrated, the radius of curvature is constant along the curved portion and represents 15% of the height of the application element. In the example illustrated above, the branch 20 has a circular and constant cross section. As a variant, this varies between the base 21a of the branch 20 and its free end 21b as illustrated in FIG. 8. In this example, the branch 20 has a shape which tapers towards the free end of that -this. Such a shape makes it possible to avoid possible deformations of the application element when passing through the wiping member. This shape also makes it possible to reinforce the holding of the application element while retaining its flexibility.

FIG. 9 illustrates another example of an application element having a non-constant cross section of the branch 20. In this example, the base 21a of the branch 20 as well as its free distal end 21b have an enlarged shape, in particular in the shape of a trapezium. In this example, the cross section of the branch 20 has a minimum at a location different from the base and the distal end.

In the examples described above, the cross section of the branch is circular. However, it could be polygonal, for example rectangular.

In the example of Figure 3, the central portion 22b is not rounded on its outer surface. It has a front view of an external edge with at least one chamfered edge, in particular at the connection between the central portion and each of the arms.

Figures 4 and 10 illustrate examples of application element 18 in which the central portion 22b has surface reliefs in the form of ripple 24. The ripple consists of a succession of arcs, three in l 'example illustrated in Figure 3 and 5 in the example illustrated in Figure 10. The corrugation has an alternation of convex outward arcs 24a and 24c and concave outward arcs 24b connected together. The arcs 24a-c have a radius of curvature r _{c [} between 0.05 mm and 1.5 mm. The outwardly concave arcs define concavity 25 open towards the outside in a direction T coinciding with the elongation axis Y of the application element 18. The concavity 25 has a depth of between 0.05 mm and 3 mm. The depth correspond corresponds to the distance, measured along the elongation axis, between the apex point of the surface comprising the reliefs and the lowest point thereof.

In the example of FIG. 12, reliefs 24 are present on the external surface of the central portion 22b of the branch 20 of the application element 18. In this example, the reliefs 24 comprise a plurality of identical periodic patterns 24a-d which project on the external surface of the central portion 22, for example in the form of slots. Each of the patterns 24a-d has a rectangular or rounded shape. These reliefs form between them concavities 25a-c open towards the outside and of rectangular or rounded shape. As a variant, these reliefs 24a-f are present over the entire external surface of the application element 18, as illustrated in FIG. 6.

FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary embodiment in which annular grooves 32 are formed in branch 20 of the applicator element 18. Such grooves can make it possible to constitute a reserve of product. In the example illustrated, the branch has a section of general dimension decreasing towards the free end of the application element 18. As a variant, the section is constant along the branch as illustrated in FIG. 7. In this example, in addition to the annular grooves 32, the applicator element 18 has protuberances, in particular in the form of spikes, which extend from the external surface of the branch 20. Such protrusions make it possible to improve the separation of the eyelashes and / or eyebrows.

FIG. 5 illustrates another embodiment in which the branch 20 of the application element 18 is defined by a succession of broken lines 31 offering the latter a zig-zag shape. This zig-zag shape defines several concavities 25 open towards the outside, in particular making it possible to accumulate product at an easy access distance. In the zig-zag shape allows good separation of the eyelashes.

FIG. 13 is an example of an application element having a branch 20 of non-constant cross section. In this example, the applicator element 18 has a wide base 21a and a free end 21b, for example of frustoconical shape. The branch 20 has, starting from the core 10, an arm connected to the core formed of a succession of conical notches converging upwards, a central portion 22b in the form of an arc of a circle and a portion22c which s extends towards the core along its axis of extension Pc and has a free end in the form of a cone widening towards the core.

We will now describe with reference to Figures 24 to 26 alternative embodiments of application elements in which the branch 20 has a general shape in P.

In the example of Figure 24, the branch 10 has a first arm 101 extending outwardly from the core along an axis T1, an arc 102 which is connected to the upper end of the first arm 101 and which is convex towards the outside, a third arm 103 which is connected both to the arc 102 and to the first arm 101. The third arm 103 has a rounded edge where it connects to the arc 102, and extends along an axis T2. The third arc 103 is spaced from the first arc 101 by a distance e preferably less than 0.3mm. The space delimited by the three arms 101 to 103 constitutes an almost closed contour cavity. This is located at a non-zero distance Δ from the core.

In the example of FIG. 25, the branch 20 comprises a first arm 101 extending outward from the core along an axis T1, an arc 102 which is connected to the upper end of the first arm 101 and which is convex towards the outside, a third arm 103 which is connected both to the arc 102 and to the first arc 101, the third arm 103 has a rounded edge at its junction with the arc 102, and s 'extends along an axis T2, and a fourth arm 104 which is connected to the arc and which extends towards the core along an axis T3 at a non-zero distance e from the core. The axes T ₂ and T ₃ form an angle g2 between them. This angle can be between 30 ° and 160 °, better still between 60 ° and 120 °, preferably 90 °.

Preferably, the axis T1 coincides with the axis of elongation Y of the application element. The arms 101, 103 and 104 form with the core 10 an almost closed contour cavity 26. The space e between the free end of the arm 104 and the core is less than or equal to 0.3 mm, better still less or equal to 0.2 mm, better still less than or equal to 0.1 mm.

The arms 101 and 103 form with the arc 102 a closed cavity 108 where the product can accumulate at a non-zero distance from the core. This increases the loading capacity of the applicator.

As a variant, as illustrated in FIG. 26, the application element is full and has an external surface of identical shape to that shown in FIG. 25.

The contact between the branch 20 and the core can be surface or punctual, as indicated in FIG. 27.

In this example, a protuberance, in particular a spike, is present inside the cavity 26 formed by the branch and the core. This protuberance can avoid the deformation of the branch 20 and increase the carrying capacity of the applicator.

FIGS. 14 to 23 illustrate examples in which the almost closed contour cavity 26 is formed between two branches 20a and 20b of an application element whose free ends are spaced by a distance e. The distance e corresponds to the opening of the almost closed contour cavity 26. The distance e is preferably less than 0.3 mm, better less than or equal to 0.2 mm, better still less than or equal to 0.1 mm.

In the examples illustrated in Figures 14 to 23, the application element 18 is in the form of a loop and has an opening 29 located at a non-zero distance from the core 10. The application element is connected to the core by the bases 201a and 201b of the two branches 20a and 20b. The application element extends along an elongation axis Y.

The branches 20a and 20b each extend along an extension axis Pa and Pb.

In the examples illustrated in FIGS. 14 to 21, the opening 29 is positioned in the distal half of the application element 18.

The two branches 20a and 20b are substantially at the same height La and Lb, measured from the core along the axis of elongation Y of the application element 18.

The two branches 20a and 20b are of substantially the same length /.a and /.b, measured from the core along the extension axis Pa and Pb of the branches 20a and 20b.

Each branch 20a and 20b has a straight proximal portion 202a and 203a connected to the core.

Each branch 20a and 20b has a non-rectilinear distal portion 202b and 203a. The distal portion can be curved as illustrated in FIGS. 15 to 21 or bent as illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 19.

In the example of Figures 14 and 19, the distal ends 22a and 22b each have an angle bend βη and βb between 20 ° and 120 °, better between 45 and 120 °. In the example illustrated, βη is substantially equal to 100 ° and βa is substantially equal to 80 °. In the example illustrated in FIG. 19, the two free ends 22a and 22b have a 90 ° bend.

In the examples of Figures 15 to 18 and 20 to 21, the distal portions 22a and 22b of the branches 20a and 20b are curved. These each form an arc concave inward. The distal portions each have a radius of curvature r _c2 of between 0.2 mm and 2 mm, preferably substantially equal to 0.3 mm.

Preferably, the distal portion has a radius of curvature r _a or r _b of between 5% and 40% of the height L _a or L _b of the corresponding branch, better between 10% and 25%, even better between 15% and 20%.

The distal portion 202b of the branch 20a has a radius of curvature r _a substantially identical to the radius of curvature r _b of the distal portion 203b of the branch 20b, but it could be otherwise.

In the examples of Figures 15 to 19 and 21, the free ends 27a and 27b of the two branches have complementary shapes, in particular a male part and a female part respectively, for example, in the shape of a U, a V, a zigzag.

Figures 19 and 21 illustrate examples of application element having one or more protuberances, preferably in the form of pins. The protrusions extend over at least part of an external and / or internal surface. The application elements may each have between 1 and 40 protrusions 33, preferably between 1 and 30 protrusions, even better between 1 and 25 protrusions.

In the examples illustrated, the protrusions extend perpendicular to said surface.

In FIG. 21, the protrusions extend in a longitudinal plane to the application element 18.

As a variant, the protrusions extend in a plane transverse to the application element as illustrated in FIG. 19.

The height of the protuberance (s), measured from their base along their extension axis, is between 0.2 mm and 5 mm, better still between 0.5 mm and 3 mm.

Figures 22 and 23 illustrate an example of an application element 18 in which the opening 29 is located in the proximal half. In this case, the branch 20b is shorter than the branch 20a. In the example illustrated, the branch 20b is rectilinear.

Figures 27 to 29 show examples in which the cavity 26 of quasi-closed contour is formed between two adjacent application elements. 18a and 18b. In this case, the almost closed contour cavities may extend between two adjacent application elements 18a and 18b of the same row of application elements or between two adjacent application elements 18a and 18b of rows d 'adjacent application elements.

In the example of FIG. 27, the application elements 18a and 18b each have a general shape of V, with two divergent branches 401a and 401b outward for the element 18a and two divergent branches 501a and 501b for element 18b. The opening angle k ′ of the V is for example between 15 and 60 °, better between 30 and 45 °.

The branches 401a and 401b are bent outward at their distal end and have two distal portions 402a and 402b oriented perpendicular to the axis of elongation Y, which is an axis of symmetry for the application element 18a.

The branches 501a and 501b are also bent at their distal end but with a greater angle than the branches 401a and 401b so that the distal portions 502a and 502b formed by the elbows form an acute angle c each with the corresponding portion of the branch that connects to the core 10.

As a variant, the branches 501a and 501b are curved. The distal portions 502a and 502b may have a radius of curvature between 0.2 mm and 2 mm, preferably substantially equal to 0.3 mm. The distal portions can have a radius of curvature of between 5% and 40% of the height of the corresponding branch, better between 10% and 25%, even better between 15% and 20%.

In the example illustrated, the distance e between the free end of a portion 402b and the adjacent branch 501a of the neighboring applicator member 18a is small and less than 0.3 mm, better still 0.2 mm, even better at 0.1 mm, so that two application elements 18a and 18b form between them a quasi-closed cavity 26, capable of accumulating a certain amount of composition. In this embodiment, the application elements can each participate in the formation of two consecutive quasi-closed contour cavities.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 29, the adjacent application elements 18a and 18b have a serrated shape. Each application element is formed by a succession of broken arcs 301a, 303a and 305a, concave outward, teeth 302a, 304a and 306a being formed at the junction between two arcs. In the example illustrated, the application element 18 describes, when starting from the core 10, a first broken arc

301, which is connected to a second arc 303a by forming a first tooth 302, this second arc 303 connecting itself to a third arc 305 by forming a tooth 304.

The application elements 18a and 18b have a symmetrical shape with respect to their axis of elongation Y.

The two arcs 305a form at their junction a tooth 306a which defines the top of the application element and which is located on the elongation axis Y.

It can be seen in FIG. 29 that the interval e which exists between two adjacent application members, at the level of the teeth 302a and 302b, is relatively small and for example less than or equal to 0.3 mm, and can in particular be between 0.1 and 0.3 mm.

The fact that the teeth 302a and 302b of the adjacent application elements are relatively close makes it possible to constitute, between the first arcs 301a and 301b of two adjacent application elements, reserves of product in the cavity 26 of quasi-closed contour.

FIG. 28 represents an alternative embodiment in which the adjacent application elements 18a and 18b each have a general V shape, with two branches 601a and 601b diverging outwards, having contiguous bases, provided at the end of enlarged heads 602a and 602b, in the form of discs.

The angle a of divergence between the axes of the branches 601a and 601b is for example between 15 and 60 °, better between 30 and 45 °.

The heads 602a and 602b brought closer to two adjacent application elements 18a and 18b can form, when the interval e between them is sufficiently small, ie less than or equal to 0.3 mm, better to 0.2 mm, even better to 0.1 mm, a cavity 26 of almost closed contour, delimited on the inside by the core, on the sides by the branches 601a and 601b, and on the outside by the heads 502a and 502b.

Finally, the heads 602a and 602b can receive a certain composition charge on their surface facing outwards. In particular, the composition can accumulate in the hollow formed between two heads 602a and 602b if these are sufficiently close together so that a composition bridge is formed by capillarity.

The applicator member 8 can be manufactured using an additive synthesis manufacturing device from a digital model of the applicator member 8.

The digital model faithfully represents Application Organ 8 in three dimensions and can be generated using computer-aided design software such as SolidWorks 3D.

As illustrated in Figures 30a-f and 31, the manufacturing device 50 may include a printing medium 51, a powder material distributor 53 intended to deliver a layer of powder material 63 on the printing medium 51 , a first agent dispenser 55 for delivering one or more coalescing agents 65 to the layer of powder material 63, a second agent dispenser 57 for providing one or more coalescing modifier agents 67 and a power source 59.

During manufacture, the powder material dispenser 53 deposits a first layer of powder material 63 over the entire surface of the printing medium 51 as illustrated in FIG. 30A by moving the material distributor 53 along the axis Y ' . One or more coalescing agents 65 and / or coalescing modifiers 67 are then deposited on parts of the layer 63, as shown in FIG. 30A, by moving associated distributors along the axis Y ’. The parts of the layer 63 on which the agents 65 and the modifiers 67 are deposited are determined according to the digital model formed previously.

Once the coalescing agents 65 and coalescing modifier 67 are deposited, the latter at least partially penetrate the layer 63, as can be seen in FIG. 30b Finally, energy is applied to the entire layer 63 using the source 51. The application of this energy makes it possible to cause the parts on which the coalescing agent (s) 65 have been applied to melt at least partially, which allows once the layer has cooled, to solidify the molten parts as illustrated in Figure 30C. The modifiers 67 make it possible to have edges of the merged zones free by preventing the fusion of the peripheral zones. After the layer of material 63 has been treated, as described above, a new layer 73 of pulverulent material is deposited on the layer 63 previously treated as illustrated in FIG. 30D. The process explained above can then be repeated to generate the three-dimensional applicator layer by layer as illustrated in Figures 30D-F.

During manufacture, the support 51 moves along the axis Z 'so that as new layers of material are deposited, a predetermined space is maintained between the surface of the most deposited layer recently and the distributors 55 and 57. As a variant, the support 51 is not mobile along the axis Z ′ and the distributors 55 and 57 can be mobile along this axis.

Preferably, the applicator member 8 is manufactured using this device from its proximal end 13, that is to say from that intended to be attached to the rod 7, at its distal end 11. L reverse is also possible.

A manufacturing process of this type, suitable for producing the applicator, is described in particular in international applications W02015106816.

As a variant, the applicator member 8 is manufactured using a device for manufacturing by different additive synthesis, in particular by light irradiation of a photocrosslinkable material, as illustrated in FIGS. 32 and 33. In In the example considered, the manufacturing device can comprise a light source 40, a tank placed above the light source 40 and a support 46. The tank 42 is transparent at least partially to the radiation emitted by the light source. It contains a photocrosslinkable liquid material 44.

During production, the light source 40 is controlled according to the digital model to crosslink the liquid material 44 in a formation zone between the support 46 and the plate 42, according to a pattern depending on the digital model. The crosslinked portions of the liquid material 44 are solid. Before manufacture, as illustrated in FIG. 32, the support 46 is immersed in the liquid material 44 and the formation zone is in contact with the support 46, so that the liquid material 44 is crosslinked on the support 46 while being attached to it. latest. During manufacture, as illustrated in FIG. 33, the support 46 is moved away from the light source 40 at the speed of manufacture of the applicator member 8, so that the crosslinked parts are produced in successive layers, each reticulated layer attached to the previous one.

The tank 42 may have a surface 48 between the support 46 and the light source 40 in fluid communication with a source of polymerization inhibitor, in particular a source of oxygen. The polymerization inhibitor makes it possible to maintain liquid material 44 in liquid form, by preventing its polymerization by light irradiation, in a fluid zone of non-zero thickness. This fluid zone extends from the surface 48 towards the formation zone and allows the circulation of the liquid towards the formation zone. Preferably, the fluid zone has a height of between 10 μm and 100 μm.

The interface between the fluid zone and the formation zone may not be straightforward but may be formed from a polymerization gradient. In this case, the support 46 is moved continuously and the irradiation by the light source 40 is continuous.

Preferably, the applicator member 8 is manufactured using this installation from its proximal end 13, to its distal end 11. The reverse is also possible.

After the manufacture of the applicator member 8, the latter is detached from the support 46 and heated to stiffen and smooth the structure.

A manufacturing process of this type, suitable for producing the applicator, is described in particular in international applications WO2014126830 and WO2014126837.

As a variant, the applicator member 8 is manufactured using a device for manufacturing by different additive synthesis, in particular by printing by filament deposition (EDM), stereolithography (SLA) or selective laser sintering ( SLS).

The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described above.

The device may include a product reservoir and the applicator be mounted by its proximal end 13 on the reservoir. In this case, the applicator has a hollow core and at least one perforation allowing the cosmetic product to be supplied to the applicator.

Claims (1)

Claims [Claim 1] Applicator (2) for applying a cosmetic product (F) to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows, comprising a single-piece application member (8), the application member (8) comprising: -a core (10) extending along a longitudinal axis (X), -a plurality of application elements (18) extending from the core (10), the application elements (18) forming a plurality of almost closed contour cavities (26). [Claim 2] Applicator according to claim 1, in which the contour of the quasi-closed contour cavity (26) has an opening (29) towards the outside of width (e) less than or equal to 0.3 mm, better still to 0.2 mm, even better at 0.1 mm. [Claim 3] Applicator according to one of claims 1 or 2, in which the almost closed contour cavity (26) extends at a distance Δ from the core (10) less than or equal to 10% of the height (L) of the or application elements (18; 18a; 18b) forming it, preferably at a zero distance from the core (10). [Claim 4] Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the opening of the contour (29) of the cavity (26) is in the proximal part of the contour of the cavity (26), in particular at or from one of the proximal ends (30) of the contour of the cavity. [Claim 5] Applicator according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, in which the opening (29) of the contour of the cavity is at a non-zero distance Δ from the core (10), in particular in the distal half of the contour of the cavity (26). [Claim 6] Applicator according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 5, in which the almost closed contour cavity (26) is delimited by one or more branches (20; 20a; 20b; 401b; 501a; 602a; 602b) of one or more several application elements (18; 18a; 18b) having a variable section along the contour of the almost closed contour cavity (26). [Claim 7] Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the almost closed contour cavity (26) is delimited by one or more branches (20; 20a; 20b; 401b; 501a; 602a; 602b) of one or more elements application (18; 18a; 18b) having a non-rectilinear distal portion (202b; 203b), in particular curved. [Claim 8] Applicator according to the preceding claim, in which the distal portion (202b; 203b) of the almost closed contour cavity has a constant curvature, in particular a radius of curvature (r; r _a ; r _b ) between 5% and 40% of the height (L; L _a ; L _b ) of the corresponding branch (18). [Claim 9] Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the almost closed contour cavity (26) is formed by a single application element (18). [Claim 10] Applicator according to claim 10, in which the almost closed contour cavity (26) is formed between two branches (20a; 20b) of an application element (18) whose free ends (202b; 203b) are spaced apart 'a non-zero distance (e). [Claim 11] Applicator according to claim 10, in which the almost closed contour cavity (26) is formed between a single branch (20) of an application element (18) and the core (18), the free end of the branch (21b) being spaced from the core by a non-zero distance (e). [Claim 12] Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims 10 to 12, the application element (18) forming the almost closed contour cavity (26) has surface reliefs (24; 24a-f) extending over at least one part of an external and / or internal surface, preferably external, of the application element. [Claim 13] Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, in which all the application elements (18; 18a; 18b) of the application member (8) each at least partially form a cavity, preferably a cavity with a quasi-contour closed (26). [Claim 14] Applicator according to any one of Claims 1 to 10, in which the almost closed contour cavity (26) is formed between two branches (20a; 20b; 401a; 501a; 602a; 602b) of two adjacent application elements ( 18a; 18b) whose free ends (402b; 502a) are spaced apart by a non-zero distance (e). [Claim 15] Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the core (8) has at least one helical groove (16; 17) rotating around the longitudinal axis (X) of the core (8), preferably at at least two helical grooves (16; 17) rotating around the longitudinal axis (X) of the core (8), opposite and similarly. [Claim 16] Applicator according to the preceding claim, in which the application elements (18) are distributed over the core (8) in at least one row, better still at least two rows, the row or rows of application elements extending preferably helically around the longitudinal axis (X) of the core, in particular by following a helix (13:15) having the same pitch as the helical groove or grooves (16; 17). [Claim 17] Device for packaging and applying a product to the eyelashes and / or the eyebrows, comprising an applicator (2) according to any one of the preceding claims and a container (3) containing the product (F). [Claim 18] Method for manufacturing an applicator according to any one of Claims 1 to 16, in which a blank of the application member (8) or the application member (8) is produced by successive layers of a digital model of the applicator or the applicator body. 1/11