EP0826323B1 - Applicator for applying a liquid or semi liquid product and assembly with such an applicator - Google Patents

Applicator for applying a liquid or semi liquid product and assembly with such an applicator Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0826323B1
EP0826323B1 EP97401864A EP97401864A EP0826323B1 EP 0826323 B1 EP0826323 B1 EP 0826323B1 EP 97401864 A EP97401864 A EP 97401864A EP 97401864 A EP97401864 A EP 97401864A EP 0826323 B1 EP0826323 B1 EP 0826323B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
applicator
product
fibres
flocking
liquid
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EP97401864A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0826323A1 (en
Inventor
Jean-Louis Gueret
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LOreal SA
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LOreal SA
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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D34/00—Containers or accessories specially adapted for handling liquid toiletry or cosmetic substances, e.g. perfumes
    • A45D34/04—Appliances specially adapted for applying liquid, e.g. using roller or ball
    • A45D34/042—Appliances specially adapted for applying liquid, e.g. using roller or ball using a brush or the like
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D34/00—Containers or accessories specially adapted for handling liquid toiletry or cosmetic substances, e.g. perfumes
    • A45D34/04—Appliances specially adapted for applying liquid, e.g. using roller or ball
    • A45D34/042—Appliances specially adapted for applying liquid, e.g. using roller or ball using a brush or the like
    • A45D34/045—Appliances specially adapted for applying liquid, e.g. using roller or ball using a brush or the like connected to the cap of the container

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a device for applying a product to a surface.
  • liquid or semi-liquid such as a cosmetic product.
  • the invention can be used for applying lipstick, nail polish, mascara, anti-wrinkle care serum etc., but also for the application of products non-cosmetic, such as glue.
  • the applicator comprises a fiber felt tip longitudinal parallels.
  • Such an applicator is described for the application of stains freckles, in French patent 2,085,208 and mainly comprises a tank made, for example of plastic, closed in one of its ends with a tight plug.
  • the tank contains a felt wick.
  • the end of the tank opposite the cap has a conical shape and encloses a dispensing tip of which one end is in contact with the wick and of which the other end is outside the tank for the application of the product on the surface to be treated.
  • a such feather is in the form of an elongated conical application tip having a tip-shaped end portion.
  • the tip can be molded in thermoplastic material, for example polyurethane.
  • the tip surface is partially or even completely covered with flocking made of polyamide, rayon, or cotton fibers having a diameter about 70 ⁇ m and a length of about 1.2 mm.
  • EP-A-0 244 156 meme shows the preamble of claim 1
  • US-A-4,772,148, and EP-A-0,693,263 describe different forms of applicators, especially for applying products cosmetics.
  • some are internal capillary, others are external capillarity, and others with retention both internal and external.
  • the internal retention structure is formed by a tangle of fibers arranged randomly, making application difficult localized product.
  • a product applicator liquid or semi liquid on a surface comprising a central core defining a porous structure so as to allow loading by capillarity internal of said applicator; and a flocking coating placed all around the central core, over at least part of its length, so as to ensure loading by external capillarity of said applicator, characterized in that the core power plant consists of a fibrous structure, the fibers of which make it up are oriented substantially along the longitudinal axis (X) of the central core, while the flock coating consists of fibers oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X) of the central core.
  • the product in the case of an eyeliner for example, with a core in the form of a felt tip, due to the presence of flocking, the product is no longer only directed towards the point, as in the felt points discussed above. Therefore, one can use the applicator not only on the tip, but also on the side to obtain lines of variable thickness, or any application in a form other than a line. A once the initial charge of product retained by the flocking is exhausted, the latter is fed again by the porous part, which increases so substantial application autonomy.
  • the core is preferably of rigid to semi-rigid consistency, that is to say does not not distort significantly under normal support conditions in view of an application.
  • the application of the product on the surface to be treated is done, either mainly by the internal structure (porous structure), or by the structure mainly external (flocking), or by both, which gives a very great flexibility in application.
  • the cross section of the core is substantially symmetrical around the longitudinal axis.
  • the porous structure means any structure able to deeply absorb the product (by capillary action or other mechanism equivalent).
  • the central core consists of a fibrous structure (felt, brush, etc.), the fibers or bristles which compose it being oriented substantially along the axis of the applicator, while the flock coating is formed of fibers oriented substantially perpendicular to the axis of the applicator.
  • a fibrous structure felt, brush, etc.
  • This structure advantageously allows the realization of an applicator authorizing, on the one hand an application of the product by bringing the free end of the applicator with the surface to be treated (in the form of a fine line, for example produced by the tip of the fibers) and on the other hand, an application of the product by setting contact of the flocking, in particular in the vicinity of the free end, with the surface to be treat (by tilting the applicator further from the surface) so as to allow a less localized application of the product (in the form of a line more thick for example).
  • the porous structure consists of a network of fibers longitudinal (Nylon, polyethylene, polyethylene terphthalate,).
  • bonds are formed between the fibers on at least one part of the length of the core of the applicator, so as to secure the fibers or hairs between them, for example at one end of the applicator.
  • connections can advantageously be obtained by welding (connections thermoplastics for example).
  • Still other means, of the bonding type by example, can be used for the joining of fibers or bristles.
  • the porous structure may consist of a brush with bristles polyester for example.
  • the central core consists of a plastic frit (polyethylene), elastomer, or metal.
  • the flocking consists of polyamide fibers, rayon, or cotton or a mixture of such fibers.
  • Such fibers can be length and / or different nature and / or diameter and / or hardness.
  • the application assembly further comprises a member ring wring attached to the neck of the tank, crossed by the rod, this member being able to wring the rod and / or the applicator.
  • the wiping member has at least one slot transverse to allow the capillary charge in product of said applicator.
  • the wiper member has the shape of a thermowell provided with a central passage and the internal surface of which can be covered, at the less in part with a flock coating.
  • the liquid or semi-liquid product is a mascara or a nails.
  • Figure 1a shows a conventional felt tip of the type used for example in French patent 2,085,208 discussed in the introduction to the this request.
  • the felt tip 1 is in the form of a bundle of fibers 2 arranged substantially parallel to the axis of the applicator and is mounted in solidarity with a rod 3 which can be connected at its other end to a handle or any other equivalent gripping device.
  • the felt is cut from so as to have a relatively tapered point shape to allow the creation of a fine line of the product to be applied.
  • Figure 1b shows a conventional flocked feather 4 as discussed in the preamble to this description. It has a molded core full 5.
  • the soul of the feather is made of a material flexible or semi-rigid elastomer with a Shore A hardness of the order of 25 to 40, chosen from the group of thermoplastics, elastomers thermoplastics, natural and synthetic rubbers.
  • the flexibility of pen depends on the choice of material, as well as the shape of the pen.
  • the coating of the feather consists of a coating of flocking obtained by natural or synthetic fibers 6, such as cotton fibers, rayon polyamide, polyester, etc. Generally, these fibers 6 have a diameter from around 50 ⁇ m to 250 ⁇ m. Typically, their length is about 0.3 mm to 2 mm.
  • the fibers constituting the flocking are oriented substantially perpendicular to the X axis of the pen.
  • the felt pen of Figure 1a the pen is mounted on a rod 3 can be connected to gripping means (not shown).
  • the present invention lies in the observation that it could be advantageous to make an applicator offering both the advantages of type applicators “felt pen” (fine line, better moisture conservation, thus avoiding coagulation problems) and the advantages of "feather” type applicators flocked “(smoothness of application, shine of the line, etc.) while minimizing drawbacks inherent in these two techniques (significant retention of the pen felt which produces a matt and transparent line, sometimes insufficient autonomy of the flocked feather, etc.).
  • Figure 2a illustrates a longitudinal sectional view of a first mode of realization of the applicator 130 according to the invention.
  • the core 10 of the applicator consists of a felt tip (structure porous), having a free end 7, and comprising oriented fibers parallel to the axis of the applicator and around which on at least one part of its length, there is a coating by flocking of fibers 11 oriented substantially perpendicular to the axis of the applicator.
  • the flocking is made of polyamide, rayon, or cotton fibers or a mixture of such fibers.
  • the size of the fibers constituting the flocking can range from size of a very fine powder up to 2 mm.
  • the technique used for the application of this fibrous coating consists, by example, to coat the surface to be covered with a liquid monomer adhesive, either by soaking, either by spraying the adhesive by spraying.
  • a liquid monomer adhesive either by soaking, either by spraying the adhesive by spraying.
  • the glue forms a permeable or porous layer so as not to remove the ability of the central core to absorb product deeply and to restore it where you want it.
  • the porous structure is not glued over its entire surface.
  • the glue after drying stiffens the structure of the brush, which can then be, depending on the adhesive used, of flexible to semi-rigid consistency, even rigid.
  • the applicator thus impregnated is then passed through a powder of particles whose length is chosen according to the degree of product loading desired or finesse of the line. These electrostatically charged particles are suspended in the air and are deposited on the surface impregnated with the applicator by electrostatic attraction. As a result, in the majority of cases, these particles orient themselves substantially perpendicular to the surface impregnated.
  • the element thus coated is then passed through an oven to polymerize the monomer adhesive. After cooling, the excess of particles is removed by suction.
  • the applicator 130 can be mounted on a rod 12 itself comprising means for mounting it on the tank of a set of applications which will be described in more detail later. It should be noted however that the mounting of the applicator on the rod 12 can be do it inside or out.
  • the applicator when the applicator is soaked in the product, it is loaded with product, on the one hand by external capillarity thanks to the flocking and on the other hand part, by internal capillarity thanks to the fibers constituting the core of the applicator.
  • the fibers of the core of the applicator constitute a mini reserve of product. which is sucked in by capillarity by the flocking, once the initial charge of product present on the perpendicular fibers of the flocking was applied.
  • the applicator When using such an applicator, for example to make a line, depending on the thickness of the desired line, the applicator is tilted more or less by relative to the surface to be treated.
  • the line is made, either only by the tip of the applicator to make a fine line, either with the tip in combination with the flocking arranged all around so as to achieve a thicker line.
  • the central soul is, like a brush, made up of a network of longitudinal fibers (Nylon, polyethylene, polyester, polyethylene terephthalate, acrylic, etc.).
  • the end opposite the tip may have a weld zone or size 50, at which the fibers are connected, for example, by thermoplastic bonds.
  • the bristles are also kept grouped together, especially in flocked places, by the layer of glue necessary for flocking.
  • the flocking consists of a mixture fibers of different lengths.
  • the flocking can be carried out from fibers, of different nature and / or diameter and / or hardness, thus allowing play on the smoothness of the application, the external capillarity of the applicator, the retention rate, or the amount of product applied.
  • a mixture of fibers of different diameters and different lengths is illustrated in Figure 2c.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates by way of example a application set 100 on which the applicator can be mounted according to the invention.
  • It includes a tank 20 of cylindrical shape closed by a bottom 30.
  • the reservoir is extended by a neck 40 of smaller diameter than that of the tank.
  • the collar 40 carries an external thread cooperating with an internal thread of a cylindrical sleeve 60 which serves gripping element of an applicator 12, plunging continuously into the product P, when the sleeve 60 is screwed onto the neck 40 of the reservoir.
  • This product is, for example, mascara or nail polish.
  • a rod 12 carrying a radial extension 180 located inside the sleeve, the diameter of which is substantially identical to the outside diameter of the neck 40.
  • the applicator supported by one of the ends of the rod can be molded with this then Roqué.
  • the applicator can also be clicked, glued or welded into the rod.
  • a wiping member 80 for example in the shape of a finger of glove, and having, on the side of the reservoir, a circular wiping lip 90.
  • this thermowell 80 has a collar 110 extending radially outwards, this collar thus resting on the neck 40 of the tank.
  • the collar 110 comes in support against the radial extension 180 of the rod, thus acting as a seal sealing.
  • the wiper member 80 is made of an elastomeric material or thermoplastic, which can be chosen from thermoplastic elastomers and natural or synthetic rubbers.
  • the rod has a diameter of about 3 mm. Its free end carries an applicator according to the invention which can be fixed on the rod 12 by heat sealing, gluing or any other suitable means.
  • the wiper member 80 is traversed by the rod, and is arranged so as to wring the stem and / or the applicator.
  • the wiper member has the shape a thermowell provided with a central passage and the internal surface of which can be covered, at least in part with a flock coating.
  • a such a thermowell is closed at one of its ends and has a lateral opening to allow the applicator to load with product.
  • FIG. 4 schematically represents a variant of the device of the Figure 3 and according to which a long wringer 90 is used comprising at least one slot 91 to allow the capillary charge of the applicator.
  • the other parts of the device are identical to those of the device in Figure 3, and therefore do not require additional detailed description.
  • the invention which has just been described with reference to the embodiments preferred is particularly advantageous in that it provides an applicator which can be used not only on the tip, but also on the side, thanks to the flocking, to obtain for example lines of variable thickness.
  • the autonomy of flocking is increased according to the invention since the flocking is fed by the felt when the initial dose on the flock is used.
  • Another benefit of this type of applicator is also due to the fact that it makes it possible to absorb, if necessary, a surplus of product from the capillary charge system, avoiding thus a significant stain of the rod.
  • the combination of capillarity internal / external capillarity, as obtained for example by means of a felt or a flocked brush is particularly advantageous in that it allows better conservation of humidity. This allows for certain formulas, such as those comprising pseudo-latex, to prevent coagulation of the product that could occur when the user forgets to put the applicator back in its sealed tank.

Description

L'invention concerne un dispositif d'application sur une surface, d'un produit liquide ou semi-liquide tel qu'un produit cosmétique. A titre d'exemple, l'invention peut être utilisée pour l'application de rouge à lèvres, de vernis à ongles, de mascara, sérum de soin anti rides etc., mais aussi pour l'application de produits non cosmétiques, tels qu'une colle.The invention relates to a device for applying a product to a surface. liquid or semi-liquid such as a cosmetic product. By way of example, the invention can be used for applying lipstick, nail polish, mascara, anti-wrinkle care serum etc., but also for the application of products non-cosmetic, such as glue.

Traditionnellement, notamment pour les "eye liners" utilisés dans le domaine cosmétique, l'application du produit est réalisée principalement au moyen de deux techniques.Traditionally, especially for the "eye liners" used in the field cosmetic, the product is mainly applied by means of two techniques.

Selon une première technique, l'applicateur comporte une pointe feutre à fibres parallèles longitudinales. Un tel applicateur est décrit pour l'application de taches de rousseur, dans le brevet français 2.085.208 et comprend principalement un réservoir réalisé, par exemple en matière plastique, fermé en l'une de ses extrémités par un bouchon étanche. Le réservoir contient une mèche en feutre. L'extrémité du réservoir opposée au bouchon a une forme conique et enserre une pointe distributrice dont une extrémité est en contact avec la mèche et dont l'autre extrémité se trouve à l'extérieur du réservoir en vue de l'application du produit sur la surface à traiter.According to a first technique, the applicator comprises a fiber felt tip longitudinal parallels. Such an applicator is described for the application of stains freckles, in French patent 2,085,208 and mainly comprises a tank made, for example of plastic, closed in one of its ends with a tight plug. The tank contains a felt wick. The end of the tank opposite the cap has a conical shape and encloses a dispensing tip of which one end is in contact with the wick and of which the other end is outside the tank for the application of the product on the surface to be treated.

L'inconvénient de ce type d'applicateur tient principalement à leur trop forte rétention en produit, ainsi qu'à leur manque de douceur. Ceci est particulièrement pénalisant pour les applicateurs du type "eye liner". Par ailleurs ce type d'applicateur n'est pas bien adapté pour l'application de compositions comportant des pigments de taille trop grosse .The disadvantage of this type of applicator is mainly due to their too strong product retention, as well as their lack of softness. This is particularly penalizing for the eyeliner type applicators. Besides this guy applicator is not well suited for the application of compositions comprising oversized pigments.

Selon une seconde technique connue, l'application du produit, dans le cas d'un eye liner est réalisée au moyen d'une plume dite floquée. A titre d'exemple, une telle plume se présente sous la forme d'un embout d'application conique allongé ayant une partie terminale en forme de pointe. L'embout peut être moulé en matériau thermoplastique, par exemple en polyuréthanne. Selon cette technique, la surface de l'embout est partiellement, voire totalement, couverte d'un flocage constitué de fibres en polyamide, de rayonne, ou de coton ayant un diamètre d'environ 70 µm et une longueur d'environ 1,2 mm. According to a second known technique, the application of the product, in the case of a eye liner is made using a so-called flocked feather. For example, a such feather is in the form of an elongated conical application tip having a tip-shaped end portion. The tip can be molded in thermoplastic material, for example polyurethane. According to this technique, the tip surface is partially or even completely covered with flocking made of polyamide, rayon, or cotton fibers having a diameter about 70 µm and a length of about 1.2 mm.

Les documents EP-A-0 244 156 pui montre le préambule de la revendication 1, US-A-4 772 148, et EP-A-0 693 263 décrivent différentes formes d'applicateurs, notamment pour l'application de produits cosmétiques. Parmi ces applicateurs, certains sont à capillarité interne, d'autres à capillarité externe, et d'autres à rétention à la fois interne et externe. Dans ce dernier cas, la structure de rétention interne est formée d'un enchevêtrement de fibres disposées de manière aléatoire, rendant difficile une application très localisée du produit. The documents EP-A-0 244 156 pui shows the preamble of claim 1, US-A-4,772,148, and EP-A-0,693,263 describe different forms of applicators, especially for applying products cosmetics. Among these applicators, some are internal capillary, others are external capillarity, and others with retention both internal and external. In this last case, the internal retention structure is formed by a tangle of fibers arranged randomly, making application difficult localized product.

Cette dernière technique, même si elle offre la possibilité d'assurer un maquillage esthétique, tout en douceur, présente cependant l'inconvénient de manquer d'autonomie.The latter technique, even if it offers the possibility of ensuring makeup aesthetic, very smooth, however has the disadvantage of missing of autonomy.

Aussi, est-ce un des objets de la présente invention que de réaliser un dispositif d'application sur une surface, d'un produit liquide ou semi-liquide, ne présentant pas les inconvénients mentionnés ci-avant en référence aux dispositifs discutés précédemment.It is therefore one of the objects of the present invention to provide a device of application on a surface, of a liquid or semi-liquid product, not having not the disadvantages mentioned above with reference to the devices discussed previously.

C'est un autre objet de la présente invention que de réaliser un applicateur pour produit cosmétique, permettant d'obtenir douceur sur le visage et autonomie du trait en supprimant une partie de la rétention du produit engendrée par les fibres du type feutre.It is another object of the present invention to provide an applicator for cosmetic product, allowing to obtain softness on the face and autonomy of the trait by removing part of the product retention generated by the fibers of the felt type.

C'est encore un autre objet de la présente invention que de réaliser un ensemble d'application d'un produit cosmétique, par exemple, utilisant un embout applicateur selon l'invention.It is yet another object of the present invention to produce an assembly applying a cosmetic product, for example, using a nozzle applicator according to the invention.

D'autres objets apparaítront de manière plus détaillée dans la description qui suit. Other objects will appear in more detail in the description which follows.

Ces objets sont atteints selon l'invention au moyen d'un applicateur de produit liquide ou semi liquide sur une surface, comprenant une âme centrale définissant une structure poreuse de manière à permettre un chargement par capillarité interne dudit applicateur ; et un revêtement de flocage disposé tout autour de l'âme centrale, sur au moins une partie de sa longueur, de manière à assurer un chargement par capillarité externe dudit applicateur, caractérisé en ce que l'âme centrale est constituée d'une structure fibreuse dont les fibres qui la composent sont orientées sensiblement selon l'axe longitudinal (X) de l'âme centrale, tandis que le revêtement de flocage est constitué de fibres orientées sensiblement perpendiculairement à l'axe longitudinal (X) de l'âme centrale. These objects are achieved according to the invention by means of a product applicator liquid or semi liquid on a surface, comprising a central core defining a porous structure so as to allow loading by capillarity internal of said applicator; and a flocking coating placed all around the central core, over at least part of its length, so as to ensure loading by external capillarity of said applicator, characterized in that the core power plant consists of a fibrous structure, the fibers of which make it up are oriented substantially along the longitudinal axis (X) of the central core, while the flock coating consists of fibers oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X) of the central core.

Ainsi, selon l'invention, dans le cas d'un eye-liner par exemple, avec une âme sous forme d'une pointe feutre, en raison de la présence du flocage, le produit n'est plus seulement dirigé vers la pointe, comme dans les pointes feutres conventionnelles discutées ci-avant. Par conséquent, on peut se servir de l'applicateur non seulement sur la pointe, mais aussi sur le côté pour obtenir des traits d'épaisseur variable, ou toute application sous forme autre qu'un traít. Une fois que la charge initiale de produit retenue par le flocage est épuisée, ce dernier est alimenté à nouveau par la partie poreuse, ce qui en augmente de façon substantielle son autonomie d'application.Thus, according to the invention, in the case of an eyeliner for example, with a core in the form of a felt tip, due to the presence of flocking, the product is no longer only directed towards the point, as in the felt points discussed above. Therefore, one can use the applicator not only on the tip, but also on the side to obtain lines of variable thickness, or any application in a form other than a line. A once the initial charge of product retained by the flocking is exhausted, the latter is fed again by the porous part, which increases so substantial application autonomy.

L'âme est de préférence de consistance rigide à semi rigide, c'est à dire ne se déforme pas de manière sensible sous des conditions normales d'appui en vue d'une application. Ainsi, l'application du produit sur la surface à traiter se fait, soit par la structure interne principalement (structure poreuse), soit par la structure externe principalement (flocage), soit par les deux, ce qui confère une très grande flexibilité à l'application.The core is preferably of rigid to semi-rigid consistency, that is to say does not not distort significantly under normal support conditions in view of an application. Thus, the application of the product on the surface to be treated is done, either mainly by the internal structure (porous structure), or by the structure mainly external (flocking), or by both, which gives a very great flexibility in application.

Avantageusement, la section transversale de l'âme est sensiblement symétrique autour de l'axe longitudinal.Advantageously, the cross section of the core is substantially symmetrical around the longitudinal axis.

Au sens de la présente invention, la structure poreuse s'entend de toute structure apte à absorber en profondeur du produit (par capillarité ou autre mécanisme équivalent).Within the meaning of the present invention, the porous structure means any structure able to deeply absorb the product (by capillary action or other mechanism equivalent).

Avantageusement, l'âme centrale est constituée d'une structure fibreuse (feutre, pinceau, etc.), les fibres ou poils qui la composent étant orientées sensiblement selon l'axe de l'applicateur, tandis que le revêtement de flocage est formé de fibres orientées sensiblement perpendiculairement à l'axe de l'applicateur. Cette structure permet avantageusement la réalisation d'un applicateur autorisant, d'une part une application du produit par mise en contact de l'extrémité libre de l'applicateur avec la surface à traiter (sous forme d'un trait fin par exemple réalisé par la pointe des fibres) et d'autre part, une application du produit par mise en contact du flocage, notamment au voisinage de l'extrémité libre, avec la surface à traiter (en inclinant davantage l'applicateur par rapport à la surface) de manière à permettre une application moins localisée du produit (sous forme d'un trait plus épais par exemple).Advantageously, the central core consists of a fibrous structure (felt, brush, etc.), the fibers or bristles which compose it being oriented substantially along the axis of the applicator, while the flock coating is formed of fibers oriented substantially perpendicular to the axis of the applicator. This structure advantageously allows the realization of an applicator authorizing, on the one hand an application of the product by bringing the free end of the applicator with the surface to be treated (in the form of a fine line, for example produced by the tip of the fibers) and on the other hand, an application of the product by setting contact of the flocking, in particular in the vicinity of the free end, with the surface to be treat (by tilting the applicator further from the surface) so as to allow a less localized application of the product (in the form of a line more thick for example).

A titre d'exemple, la structure poreuse est constituée d'un réseau de fibres longitudinales (Nylon, polyéthylène, polyéthylène teréphtalate,). Avantageusement, des liaisons sont formées entre les fibres sur au moins une partie de la longueur de l'âme de l'applicateur, de manière à solidariser les fibres ou poils entre eux, par exemple au niveau d'une extrémité de l'applicateur. De telles liaisons peuvent être obtenues avantageusement par soudage (liaisons thermoplastiques par exemple). D'autres moyens encore, de type collage par exemple, peuvent être utilisés pour la solidarisation des fibres ou poils.For example, the porous structure consists of a network of fibers longitudinal (Nylon, polyethylene, polyethylene terphthalate,). Advantageously, bonds are formed between the fibers on at least one part of the length of the core of the applicator, so as to secure the fibers or hairs between them, for example at one end of the applicator. Of such connections can advantageously be obtained by welding (connections thermoplastics for example). Still other means, of the bonding type by example, can be used for the joining of fibers or bristles.

La structure poreuse peut être constituée d'un pinceau avec des poils en polyester par exemple.The porous structure may consist of a brush with bristles polyester for example.

Selon une alternative, l'âme centrale est constituée d'un fritté de plastique (polyéthylène), d'élastomère, ou de métal.According to an alternative, the central core consists of a plastic frit (polyethylene), elastomer, or metal.

Avantageusement, le flocage est constitué de fibres de polyamide, de rayonne, ou de coton ou d'un mélange de telles fibres. De telles fibres peuvent être de longueur et/ou de nature et/ou de diamètre et/ou de dureté différents.Advantageously, the flocking consists of polyamide fibers, rayon, or cotton or a mixture of such fibers. Such fibers can be length and / or different nature and / or diameter and / or hardness.

L'invention concerne également un ensemble d'application d'un produit liquide ou semi-liquide comportant:

  • a) un élément de préhension et une tige dont une première extrémité est solidaire d'un applicateur destiné au prélèvement du produit et à l'application de ce produit sur une surface à traiter, la seconde extrémité de la tige étant solidaire de l'élément de préhension;
  • b) un réservoir contenant ledit produit et muni d'un col adapté pour recevoir de façon amovible l'élément de préhension;
  • ledit ensemble d'application étant caractérisé en ce qu'il utilise un applicateur selon l'invention.
    • The invention also relates to an assembly for applying a liquid or semi-liquid product comprising:
  • a) a gripping element and a rod, a first end of which is secured to an applicator intended for removing the product and applying this product to a surface to be treated, the second end of the rod being secured to the element gripping;
  • b) a reservoir containing said product and provided with a neck adapted to removably receive the gripping element;
  • said application assembly being characterized in that it uses an applicator according to the invention.

    • Avantageusement encore, l'ensemble d'application comprend en outre un organe d'essorage annulaire fixé sur le col du réservoir, traversé par la tige, cet organe étant apte à essorer la tige et/ou l'applicateur.Advantageously also, the application assembly further comprises a member ring wring attached to the neck of the tank, crossed by the rod, this member being able to wring the rod and / or the applicator.

    Selon une première alternative, l'organe d'essorage comporte au moins une fente transversale pour permettre la charge capillaire en produit dudit applicateur.According to a first alternative, the wiping member has at least one slot transverse to allow the capillary charge in product of said applicator.

    Selon une seconde alternative, l'organe d'essorage a la forme d'un doigt de gant pourvu d'un passage central et dont la surface interne peut être recouverte, au moins en partie d'un revêtement de flocage.According to a second alternative, the wiper member has the shape of a thermowell provided with a central passage and the internal surface of which can be covered, at the less in part with a flock coating.

    A titre d'exemple, le produit liquide ou semi-liquide est un mascara ou un vernis à ongles.For example, the liquid or semi-liquid product is a mascara or a nails.

    Dans la description qui suit, il sera fait référence aux dessins dans lesquels :

    • les figures 1a et 1b représentent des vues en coupe longitudinale de deux applicateurs conventionnels ;
    • les figures 2a-2c représentent des vues en coupe longitudinale de trois modes de réalisation préférés de l'applicateur selon l'invention ;
    • la figure 3 illustre un mode de réalisation d'un dispositif d'application utilisant l'applicateur selon l'invention ; et
    • la figure 4 illustre de manière schématique une variante du dispositif représenté à la figure 3.
    In the description which follows, reference will be made to the drawings in which:
    • Figures 1a and 1b show longitudinal sectional views of two conventional applicators;
    • Figures 2a-2c show views in longitudinal section of three preferred embodiments of the applicator according to the invention;
    • FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of an application device using the applicator according to the invention; and
    • FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a variant of the device shown in FIG. 3.

    La figure 1a représente une pointe feutre conventionnelle du type de celle utilisée par exemple dans le brevet français 2.085.208 discuté en introduction de la présente demande. La pointe feutre 1 se présente sous forme d'un faisceau de fibres 2 disposées sensiblement parallèlement à l'axe de l'applicateur et est montée solidaire d'une tige 3 pouvant être reliée en son autre extrémité à une poignée ou à tout autre dispositif de préhension équivalent. Le feutre est taillé de manière à présenter une forme en pointe relativement effilée pour permettre la réalisation d'un trait fin du produit à appliquer.Figure 1a shows a conventional felt tip of the type used for example in French patent 2,085,208 discussed in the introduction to the this request. The felt tip 1 is in the form of a bundle of fibers 2 arranged substantially parallel to the axis of the applicator and is mounted in solidarity with a rod 3 which can be connected at its other end to a handle or any other equivalent gripping device. The felt is cut from so as to have a relatively tapered point shape to allow the creation of a fine line of the product to be applied.

    La figure 1b représente une plume floquée conventionnelle 4 telle que discutée dans le préambule de la présente description. Elle comporte une âme moulée pleine 5. Typiquement, l'âme de la plume est réalisée en un matériau élastomérique souple ou semi-rigide dont la dureté Shore A est de l'ordre de 25 à 40, choisi dans le groupe des thermoplastiques, des élastomères thermoplastiques, des caoutchoucs naturels et synthétiques. La souplesse de la plume dépend du choix du matériau, ainsi que de la forme de la plume. Le revêtement de la plume est constitué d'un revêtement de flocage obtenu par des fibres naturelles ou synthétiques 6, telles que des fibres de coton, de rayonne de polyamide, de polyester etc.. Généralement, ces fibres 6 ont un diamètre d'environ 50 µm à 250 µm. Typiquement, leur longueur est d'environ 0,3 mm à 2 mm. Ainsi que l'on peut le noter, les fibres constituant le flocage sont orientées de manière sensiblement perpendiculaire à l'axe X de la plume. De la même manière que la plume feutre de la figure 1a la plume est montée sur une tige 3 pouvant être reliée à des moyens de préhension (non représentés).Figure 1b shows a conventional flocked feather 4 as discussed in the preamble to this description. It has a molded core full 5. Typically, the soul of the feather is made of a material flexible or semi-rigid elastomer with a Shore A hardness of the order of 25 to 40, chosen from the group of thermoplastics, elastomers thermoplastics, natural and synthetic rubbers. The flexibility of pen depends on the choice of material, as well as the shape of the pen. The coating of the feather consists of a coating of flocking obtained by natural or synthetic fibers 6, such as cotton fibers, rayon polyamide, polyester, etc. Generally, these fibers 6 have a diameter from around 50 µm to 250 µm. Typically, their length is about 0.3 mm to 2 mm. As can be noted, the fibers constituting the flocking are oriented substantially perpendicular to the X axis of the pen. Of the same so that the felt pen of Figure 1a the pen is mounted on a rod 3 can be connected to gripping means (not shown).

    La présente invention réside dans le constat qu'il pouvait être avantageux de réaliser un applicateur offrant à la fois les avantages des applicateurs de type "plume feutre" (finesse du trait, meilleure conservation de l'humidité, évitant ainsi les problèmes de coagulation) et les avantages des applicateurs de type "plume floquée" (douceur d'application, brillance du trait, etc.) tout en minimisant les inconvénients inhérents à ces deux techniques (rétention importante de la plume feutre qui produit un trait mat et transparent, autonomie parfois insuffisante de la plume floquée, etc.). The present invention lies in the observation that it could be advantageous to make an applicator offering both the advantages of type applicators "felt pen" (fine line, better moisture conservation, thus avoiding coagulation problems) and the advantages of "feather" type applicators flocked "(smoothness of application, shine of the line, etc.) while minimizing drawbacks inherent in these two techniques (significant retention of the pen felt which produces a matt and transparent line, sometimes insufficient autonomy of the flocked feather, etc.).

    La figure 2a illustre une vue en coupe longitudinale d'un premier mode de réalisation de l'applicateur 130 selon l'invention. Selon ce premier mode de réalisation, l'âme 10 de l'applicateur est constituée d'une pointe feutre (structure poreuse), présentant une extrémité libre 7, et comportant des fibres orientées parallèlement à l'axe de l'applicateur et autour de laquelle, sur au moins une partie de sa longueur, on dispose un revêtement par flocage de fibres 11 orientées de manière sensiblement perpendiculaire à l'axe de l'applicateur. Le flocage est constitué de fibres de polyamide, de rayonne, ou de coton ou d'un mélange de telles fibres. La taille des fibres constituant le flocage peut aller de la taille d'une poudre très fine jusqu'à 2 mm.Figure 2a illustrates a longitudinal sectional view of a first mode of realization of the applicator 130 according to the invention. According to this first mode of embodiment, the core 10 of the applicator consists of a felt tip (structure porous), having a free end 7, and comprising oriented fibers parallel to the axis of the applicator and around which on at least one part of its length, there is a coating by flocking of fibers 11 oriented substantially perpendicular to the axis of the applicator. The flocking is made of polyamide, rayon, or cotton fibers or a mixture of such fibers. The size of the fibers constituting the flocking can range from size of a very fine powder up to 2 mm.

    La technique utilisée pour l'application de ce revêtement fibreux consiste, par exemple, à enduire la surface à recouvrir d'un adhésif liquide monomère, soit par trempage, soit par pulvérisation de l'adhésif par pistoletage. Notamment dans le cas ou toute la surface de l'âme centrale est floquée, on s'assure que la colle forme une couche perméable ou poreuse de manière à ne pas supprimer la capacité de l'âme centrale à absorber du produit en profondeur et à le restituer aux endroits voulus. Avantageusement toutefois, la structure poreuse n'est pas encollée sur toute sa surface. Lorsqu'elle est déposée sur un pinceau, la colle après séchage, provoque une rigidification de la structure du pinceau, lequel peut être alors, en fonction de la colle utilisée, de consistance souple à semi-rigide, voire rigide.The technique used for the application of this fibrous coating consists, by example, to coat the surface to be covered with a liquid monomer adhesive, either by soaking, either by spraying the adhesive by spraying. Especially in the case where the entire surface of the central core is flocked, we make sure that the glue forms a permeable or porous layer so as not to remove the ability of the central core to absorb product deeply and to restore it where you want it. Advantageously, however, the porous structure is not glued over its entire surface. When deposited on a brush, the glue after drying, stiffens the structure of the brush, which can then be, depending on the adhesive used, of flexible to semi-rigid consistency, even rigid.

    L'applicateur ainsi imprégné est passé ensuite dans une poudre de particules dont la longueur est choisie en fonction du degré de chargement en produit désiré ou de la finesse du trait. Ces particules, chargées électrostatiquement sont en suspension dans l'air et sont déposées sur la surface imprégnée de l'applicateur par attraction électrostatique. De ce fait, dans la majorité des cas, ces particules s'orientent de façon sensiblement perpendiculaire à la surface imprégnée. Avantageusement, on fait passer ensuite l'élément ainsi revêtu dans une étuve afin de polymériser l'adhésif monomère. Après refroidissement, l'excès de particules est éliminé par aspiration. The applicator thus impregnated is then passed through a powder of particles whose length is chosen according to the degree of product loading desired or finesse of the line. These electrostatically charged particles are suspended in the air and are deposited on the surface impregnated with the applicator by electrostatic attraction. As a result, in the majority of cases, these particles orient themselves substantially perpendicular to the surface impregnated. Advantageously, the element thus coated is then passed through an oven to polymerize the monomer adhesive. After cooling, the excess of particles is removed by suction.

    Ainsi que représenté, l'applicateur 130 peut être monté sur une tige 12 comportant elle même des moyens permettant de la monter sur le réservoir d'un ensemble d'application qui fera l'objet d'une description plus détaillée par la suite. Il est à noter cependant que le montage de l'applicateur sur la tige 12 peut se faire par l'intérieur ou par l'extérieur.As shown, the applicator 130 can be mounted on a rod 12 itself comprising means for mounting it on the tank of a set of applications which will be described in more detail later. It should be noted however that the mounting of the applicator on the rod 12 can be do it inside or out.

    Ainsi que discuté avant, lorsque l'applicateur est trempé dans le produit, celui-ci se charge en produit, d'une part par capillarité externe grâce au flocage et d'autre part, par capillarité interne grâce aux fibres constituant l'âme de l'applicateur. Ainsi, les fibres de l'âme de l'applicateur constituent une mini réserve de produit qui est aspirée par capillarité par le flocage, une fois que la charge initiale de produit présente sur les fibres perpendiculaires du flocage a été appliquée.As discussed before, when the applicator is soaked in the product, it is loaded with product, on the one hand by external capillarity thanks to the flocking and on the other hand part, by internal capillarity thanks to the fibers constituting the core of the applicator. Thus, the fibers of the core of the applicator constitute a mini reserve of product. which is sucked in by capillarity by the flocking, once the initial charge of product present on the perpendicular fibers of the flocking was applied.

    Lors de l'utilisation d'un tel applicateur, par exemple pour réaliser un trait, en fonction de l'épaisseur du trait souhaité, on incline plus ou moins l'applicateur par rapport à la surface à traiter. Ainsi, le trait est réalisé, soit uniquement par la pointe de l'applicateur pour réaliser un trait fin, soit par la pointe en combinaison avec le flocage disposé tout autour de manière à réaliser un trait plus épais.When using such an applicator, for example to make a line, depending on the thickness of the desired line, the applicator is tilted more or less by relative to the surface to be treated. Thus, the line is made, either only by the tip of the applicator to make a fine line, either with the tip in combination with the flocking arranged all around so as to achieve a thicker line.

    D'autres matériaux que le feutre peuvent être utilisés selon la présente invention pour réaliser la structure poreuse de l'applicateur. A titre d'exemple l'âme centrale est, à la manière d'un pinceau, constituée d'un réseau de fibres longitudinales (Nylon, polyéthylène, polyester, polyéthylène teréphtalate, acrylique, etc.). L'extrémité opposée à la pointe peut présenter une zone de soudure ou d'encollage 50, au niveau de laquelle les fibres sont reliées par exemple, par des liaisons thermoplastiques. Par ailleurs, et ainsi que mentionné précédemment, dans le cas d'un pinceau, les poils sont également maintenus groupés entre eux, notamment aux endroits floqués, par la couche de colle nécessaire au flocage. Other materials than felt can be used according to the present invention to make the porous structure of the applicator. As an example the central soul is, like a brush, made up of a network of longitudinal fibers (Nylon, polyethylene, polyester, polyethylene terephthalate, acrylic, etc.). The end opposite the tip may have a weld zone or size 50, at which the fibers are connected, for example, by thermoplastic bonds. Furthermore, and as previously mentioned, in the case of a brush, the bristles are also kept grouped together, especially in flocked places, by the layer of glue necessary for flocking.

    Dans le mode de réalisation de la figure 2b, le flocage est constitué d'un mélange de fibres de longueurs différentes. De même, le flocage peut être réalisé à partir de fibres, de nature et/ou de diamètre et/ou de dureté différents, permettant ainsi de jouer sur la douceur de l'application, la capillarité externe de l'applicateur, le taux de rétention, ou la quantité de produit appliquée. Selon un mode de réalisation particulièrement bénéfique, on utilise un mélange de fibres de différents diamètres et de différentes longueurs. Ce dernier mode de réalisation est illustré à la figure 2c.In the embodiment of FIG. 2b, the flocking consists of a mixture fibers of different lengths. Likewise, the flocking can be carried out from fibers, of different nature and / or diameter and / or hardness, thus allowing play on the smoothness of the application, the external capillarity of the applicator, the retention rate, or the amount of product applied. According to a mode of particularly beneficial realization, a mixture of fibers of different diameters and different lengths. This last embodiment is illustrated in Figure 2c.

    Les modes de réalisation discutés dans la présente description concernent essentiellement une plume présentant la forme d'une pointe. Il est évident que l'invention ne se limite pas à cette forme particulière, et vise en général tout applicateur de forme sensiblement longitudinale, pouvant ou non comporter des facettes.The embodiments discussed in the present description relate to essentially a feather in the shape of a point. It's obvious that the invention is not limited to this particular form, and generally targets all applicator of substantially longitudinal shape, which may or may not include facets.

    La figure 3 à laquelle il est maintenant fait référence illustre à titre d'exemple un ensemble d'application 100 sur lequel peut être monté l'applicateur selon l'invention. Il comprend un réservoir 20 de forme cylindrique fermé par un fond 30. De son côté opposé au fond 30, le réservoir se prolonge par un col 40 de diamètre plus faible que celui du réservoir. Le col 40 porte un filetage externe coopérant avec un filetage interne d'un manchon cylindrique 60 qui sert d'élément de préhension d'un applicateur 12, plongeant en permanence dans le produit P, lorsque le manchon 60 est vissé sur le col 40 du réservoir. Ce produit est, par exemple, du mascara ou un vernis à ongles. Avantageusement, on dispose dans le réservoir une bille 120 permettant d'homogénéiser la composition avant utilisation.Figure 3 to which reference is now made illustrates by way of example a application set 100 on which the applicator can be mounted according to the invention. It includes a tank 20 of cylindrical shape closed by a bottom 30. On its side opposite the bottom 30, the reservoir is extended by a neck 40 of smaller diameter than that of the tank. The collar 40 carries an external thread cooperating with an internal thread of a cylindrical sleeve 60 which serves gripping element of an applicator 12, plunging continuously into the product P, when the sleeve 60 is screwed onto the neck 40 of the reservoir. This product is, for example, mascara or nail polish. Advantageously, we has in the tank a ball 120 making it possible to homogenize the composition before use.

    Dans le manchon 60 est fixée une tige 12, portant une extension radiale 180 située à l'intérieur du manchon, dont le diamètre est sensiblement identique au diamètre extérieur du col 40. L'applicateur supporté par une des extrémités de la tige peut être moulé avec celle-ci puis Roqué. L'applicateur peut aussi être claqué, collé ou soudé dans la tige.In the sleeve 60 is fixed a rod 12, carrying a radial extension 180 located inside the sleeve, the diameter of which is substantially identical to the outside diameter of the neck 40. The applicator supported by one of the ends of the rod can be molded with this then Roqué. The applicator can also be clicked, glued or welded into the rod.

    Dans le col est inséré un organe d'essorage 80, par exemple en forme de doigt de gant, et présentant, du côté du réservoir, une lèvre d'essorage circulaire 90. Du côté opposé, ce doigt de gant 80 présente une collerette 110 s'étendant radialement vers l'extérieur, cette collerette reposant ainsi sur le col 40 du réservoir. En position assemblée de l'ensemble 100, la collerette 110 vient en appui contre l'extension radiale 180 de la tige, faisant ainsi fonction de joint d'étanchéité. L'organe d'essorage 80 est constitué d'un matériau élastomérique ou thermoplastique, pouvant être choisi parmi les élastomères thermoplastiques et les caoutchoucs naturels ou synthétiques.In the neck is inserted a wiping member 80, for example in the shape of a finger of glove, and having, on the side of the reservoir, a circular wiping lip 90. On the opposite side, this thermowell 80 has a collar 110 extending radially outwards, this collar thus resting on the neck 40 of the tank. In the assembled position of the assembly 100, the collar 110 comes in support against the radial extension 180 of the rod, thus acting as a seal sealing. The wiper member 80 is made of an elastomeric material or thermoplastic, which can be chosen from thermoplastic elastomers and natural or synthetic rubbers.

    La tige a un diamètre d'environ 3 mm. Son extrémité libre porte un applicateur selon l'invention qui peut être fixé sur la tige 12 par thermosoudage, collage ou tout autre moyen adapté.The rod has a diameter of about 3 mm. Its free end carries an applicator according to the invention which can be fixed on the rod 12 by heat sealing, gluing or any other suitable means.

    L'organe d'essorage 80 est traversé par la tige, et est arrangé de manière à essorer la tige et/ou l'applicateur. Alternativement, l'organe d'essorage a la forme d'un doigt de gant pourvu d'un passage central et dont la surface interne peut être recouverte, au moins en partie d'un revêtement de flocage. Typiquement, un tel doigt de gant est fermé en l'une de ses extrémités et présente un orifice latéral pour permettre à l'applicateur de se charger en produit.The wiper member 80 is traversed by the rod, and is arranged so as to wring the stem and / or the applicator. Alternatively, the wiper member has the shape a thermowell provided with a central passage and the internal surface of which can be covered, at least in part with a flock coating. Typically, a such a thermowell is closed at one of its ends and has a lateral opening to allow the applicator to load with product.

    La figure 4 représente de manière schématique une variante du dispositif de la figure 3 et selon laquelle on utilise un essoreur long 90 comprenant au moins une fente 91 pour permettre la charge capillaire de l'applicateur. Les autres parties du dispositif sont identiques à celles du dispositif de la figure 3, et par conséquent ne nécessitent pas de description détaillée supplémentaire.FIG. 4 schematically represents a variant of the device of the Figure 3 and according to which a long wringer 90 is used comprising at least one slot 91 to allow the capillary charge of the applicator. The other parts of the device are identical to those of the device in Figure 3, and therefore do not require additional detailed description.

    Il est évident que ces dispositifs sur lesquels peuvent être utilisés l'applicateur selon l'invention ne sont donnés qu'à titre d'illustration. A titre d'exemple encore, on peut utiliser l'applicateur selon l'invention sur des dispositifs tels que ceux décrits dans le brevet US 5 324 128, le brevet français 2 603 780 ou dans le brevet EP 354 823.It is obvious that these devices on which the applicator can be used according to the invention are given only by way of illustration. As another example, the applicator according to the invention can be used on devices such as those described in US Patent 5,324,128, French Patent 2,603,780 or in the EP patent 354 823.

    Ainsi, l'invention qui vient d'être décrite en référence aux modes de réalisation préférés est particulièrement avantageuse en ce qu'elle fournit un applicateur qui peut être utilisé non seulement sur la pointe, mais aussi sur le côté, grâce au flocage, pour obtenir par exemple des traits d'épaisseur variable. L'autonomie du flocage est accrue selon l'invention puisque le flocage est alimenté par le feutre lorsque la dose initiale présente sur le flocage est utilisée. Un autre avantage de ce type d'applicateur tient également au fait qu'il permet d'absorber, le cas échéant, un surplus de produit provenant du système de charge capillaire, évitant ainsi une souillure importante de la tige. Par ailleurs, la combinaison capillarité interne/capillarité externe, telle qu'obtenue par exemple au moyen d'un feutre ou d'un pinceau floqué, est tout particulièrement avantageuse en ce qu'elle permet une meilleure conservation de l'humidité. Ceci permet pour certaines formules, telles que celles comprenant des pseudo-latex, d'empêcher la coagulation du produit qui pourrait intervenir lorsque l'utilisatrice oublie de remettre l'applicateur dans son réservoir étanche.Thus, the invention which has just been described with reference to the embodiments preferred is particularly advantageous in that it provides an applicator which can be used not only on the tip, but also on the side, thanks to the flocking, to obtain for example lines of variable thickness. The autonomy of flocking is increased according to the invention since the flocking is fed by the felt when the initial dose on the flock is used. Another benefit of this type of applicator is also due to the fact that it makes it possible to absorb, if necessary, a surplus of product from the capillary charge system, avoiding thus a significant stain of the rod. In addition, the combination of capillarity internal / external capillarity, as obtained for example by means of a felt or a flocked brush, is particularly advantageous in that it allows better conservation of humidity. This allows for certain formulas, such as those comprising pseudo-latex, to prevent coagulation of the product that could occur when the user forgets to put the applicator back in its sealed tank.

    La description qui précède concerne des modes de réalisation préférés de l'invention. Il est évident que des variantes peuvent y être apportées sans s'écarter de l'esprit de l'invention telle que revendiquée ci-après.The foregoing description relates to preferred embodiments of the invention. Obviously, variations can be made without depart from the spirit of the invention as claimed below.

    Claims (18)

    1. Applicator for applying a liquid or semi-liquid product to a surface, including:
      a) a central core (10) of elongate shape along a longitudinal axis (X) and defining a structure which is porous so as to allow the said applicator to fill by capillarity internally, the said core having a free end (7); and
      b) a covering of flocking (11) arranged all around the central core (10), at least close to the said free end (7), so as to allow the said applicator to fill by capillarity externally, characterized in that the central core (10) consists of a fibrous structure in which the fibres of which it is composed are directed more or less along the longitudinal axis (X), while the covering of flocking (11) consists of fibres directed more or less at right angles to the longitudinal axis (X).
    2. Applicator according to Claim 1, characterized in that the central core (10) consists of a felt.
    3. Applicator according to Claim 1, characterized in that the central core (10) consists of longitudinal fibres with thermoplastic bonds (50) over at least part of the length of the core of the applicator.
    4. Applicator according to Claim 3, characterized in that the said fibres are nylon fibres.
    5. Applicator according to Claim 3, characterized in that the said fibres are polyethylene or polyester fibres.
    6. Applicator according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the flocking (11) consists of polyamide, rayon, cotton, polyester or acrylic fibres.
    7. Applicator according to any one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the flocking (11) consists of a mixture of fibres having different lengths.
    8. Applicator according to any one of Claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the flocking (11) consists of a mixture of fibres having different hardnesses.
    9. Applicator according to Claim 8, characterized in that the flocking (11) consists of a mixture of fibres having different diameters.
    10. Applicator according to any one of Claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the flocking (11) consists of a mixture of fibres of different types.
    11. Assembly (100) for applying a liquid or semi-liquid product (P), including:
      a) an element (60) for holding, and a wand (12) a first end of which is secured to an applicator (130) intended for picking up product and applying this product to a surface to be treated, the second end of the wand (12) being secured to the element (60) for holding;
      b) a reservoir (20) containing the said product (P) and equipped with a neck (40) designed to accommodate, detachably, the element (60) for holding;
      c) an annular member (80, 90) for wringing or metering the product, fixed to the neck (40) of the reservoir and capable of wringing out the wand and/or the applicator; the said device being characterized in that the applicator (130) is in accordance with any one of the preceding claims.
    12. Applicator assembly according to Claim 11, characterized in that the wringing member (90) has at least one transverse slit (91) to allow the said applicator to be filled by capillarity.
    13. Applicator assembly according to Claim 12, characterized in that the wringing member is shaped like a thimble with a central passage.
    14. Applicator assembly according to Claim 13, characterized in that the internal surface of the thimble is covered, at least in part, with a covering of flocking.
    15. Applicator assembly according to Claim 13 or 14, characterized in that the thimble is closed at its end and has a lateral orifice to allow the applicator to be filled with product.
    16. Applicator assembly according to any one of Claims 11 to 15, characterized in that the said liquid or semi-liquid product (P) is a mascara.
    17. Applicator assembly according to any one of Claims 11 to 15, characterized in that the said liquid or semi-liquid product (P) is a nail varnish.
    18. Applicator assembly according to any one of Claims 11 to 15, characterized in that the said liquid or semi-liquid product (P) is an eyeliner.
    EP97401864A 1996-09-02 1997-08-01 Applicator for applying a liquid or semi liquid product and assembly with such an applicator Expired - Lifetime EP0826323B1 (en)

    Applications Claiming Priority (2)

    Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
    FR9610688A FR2752696B1 (en) 1996-09-02 1996-09-02 LIQUID OR SEMI-LIQUID APPLICATOR AND APPLICATION ASSEMBLY USING SUCH AN APPLICATOR
    FR1068896 1996-09-02

    Publications (2)

    Publication Number Publication Date
    EP0826323A1 EP0826323A1 (en) 1998-03-04
    EP0826323B1 true EP0826323B1 (en) 1999-03-17

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    ID=9495361

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    Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
    EP97401864A Expired - Lifetime EP0826323B1 (en) 1996-09-02 1997-08-01 Applicator for applying a liquid or semi liquid product and assembly with such an applicator

    Country Status (10)

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    US (1) US5899622A (en)
    EP (1) EP0826323B1 (en)
    JP (1) JP2944587B2 (en)
    CN (1) CN1103570C (en)
    AR (1) AR009482A1 (en)
    BR (1) BR9702815A (en)
    CA (1) CA2213644C (en)
    DE (1) DE69700145T2 (en)
    ES (1) ES2131985T3 (en)
    FR (1) FR2752696B1 (en)

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    US20040107974A1 (en) * 2002-07-03 2004-06-10 The Bridgeport Metal Goods Manufacturing Company Cosmetics and mascara brushes with multi-fiber bristles
    ITMI20030643A1 (en) 2003-04-01 2004-10-02 Copan Innovation Ltd BUFFER FOR THE COLLECTION OF BIOLOGICAL SAMPLES
    FR2855379B1 (en) 2003-05-27 2005-07-29 Oreal PACKAGING AND APPLICATION DEVICE
    FR2860960B1 (en) * 2003-10-17 2007-03-30 Oreal APPLICATOR OF A PRODUCT, IN PARTICULAR COSMETIC
    US7004657B2 (en) * 2004-03-01 2006-02-28 Frazier Thomas G Single use applicator for applying viscous fluids
    US20060067906A1 (en) * 2004-09-24 2006-03-30 Angie Sanders Extended wear low viscosity cosmetic compositions
    US7144174B2 (en) * 2004-12-30 2006-12-05 Unilever Home & Personal Care Usa Division Of Conopco, Inc. Applicator for liquid cosmetic compositions
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    FR2882506B1 (en) 2005-02-25 2007-05-18 Oreal MAKE-UP PROCESS USING A VIBRANT APPLICATOR
    AR056792A1 (en) * 2005-11-12 2007-10-24 Unilever Nv HAIR DISPENSER
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    WO2009101585A2 (en) * 2008-02-11 2009-08-20 Imd Tech Ltd. System and method for delivering moisturizing liquid to lips of a subject
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    FR3037490B1 (en) * 2015-06-19 2017-07-21 Oreal COSMETIC APPLICATOR
    KR101745357B1 (en) 2015-07-06 2017-06-12 (주)아모레퍼시픽 Finger insertion type mascara container having an elastic slit member
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    Also Published As

    Publication number Publication date
    EP0826323A1 (en) 1998-03-04
    BR9702815A (en) 1998-12-29
    CA2213644C (en) 1999-12-07
    FR2752696B1 (en) 1998-09-25
    ES2131985T3 (en) 1999-08-01
    US5899622A (en) 1999-05-04
    DE69700145T2 (en) 1999-07-01
    MX9706564A (en) 1998-07-31
    CA2213644A1 (en) 1998-03-02
    CN1103570C (en) 2003-03-26
    DE69700145D1 (en) 1999-04-22
    AR009482A1 (en) 2000-04-26
    JP2944587B2 (en) 1999-09-06
    CN1178659A (en) 1998-04-15
    JPH1094424A (en) 1998-04-14
    FR2752696A1 (en) 1998-03-06

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