EP0859563B1 - Applicator-holder - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to an applicator holder device which can be used. in the cosmetic field, using for example a mine Kohl pencil, liner, lipstick, eye shadow, etc. The term "applicator" includes, within the meaning of the present application, direct application applicators (mine) as well as applicators for indirect application (foam flocked or not, felt, brush etc.).

In the cosmetic field, there are known mechanisms comprising a handle with a central pusher part, actuated by a thread to be able to selectively advance or retreat, so as to descend or ascend a mine disposed in the head (or nose) of an applicator, the lead being carried by a cup. The cup is held inside by a spring in the rest position. When the nose is mounted on the handle, and that the pusher is actuated, it pushes the mine out of the head by decompressing the spring.

A major drawback of this type of device is that, if in progress of use, the refill nose is removed without screwing the push mechanism back, the mine enters the nose, but the pusher remains in the high position, thus requiring manipulation to return it to the low position. In addition, the mechanism pusher being actuated by a thread made in the internal surface of the handle, it is difficult to give the pencil a shape other than circular due to the thicknesses of material generated. Finally, such mechanisms implement a large number of parts, which significantly increases the cost of these devices.

Other applicator support devices are also described in the patent. US 3358699 or in patent applications EP-A-0604793 or DE-A-4222759. The devices described in these documents are of the type comprising a threaded rod with which one or more legs are engaged, of so as to drive the applicator in the output position. However, these devices pose problems mainly in that, due to the mechanism that drives it, the applicator is held axially rigidly, which inevitably causes a certain lack of flexibility in the application, perceived lack of flexibility of prohibitive way by consumers, when the device is used to applying makeup products in areas as sensitive as those surrounding the eyes.

Furthermore, in documents EP-A-0604793 and US 3358699, the mechanism drive, which is a fragile part of the device, is not carried by the head removable, but by the body, or by an intermediate operating member, which requires replacement of the entire device in the event of damage to the drive mechanism.

Finally, in the case of document DE-A-4222759, the driving part of the mechanism, when mounting the head on the body of the device, is engaged with the threaded rod, substantially in the middle. This requires, due to the small spaces annular, the forceful crossing of a substantial portion of the thread by the drive means, in a constrained position thereof, which crossing in strength significantly affects the simplicity and smoothness of mounting and the use of the device, and also risks irreparable damage, either the drive mechanism, or the thread, or both.

Also, is it an object of the present invention to provide an applicator holder device, possibly rechargeable, and not having the drawbacks mentioned above with reference to conventional devices.

It is in particular an object of the invention to provide an applicator holder device in which the applicator is driven by a simple, reliable mechanism which gives application improved softness and flexibility compared to devices conventional.

It is in particular an object of the invention to provide a cheap mechanism, of a simple assembly, being able to present any shape and which allows advantageously to automatically return the pusher mechanism by rest position when the head is removed from the case.

Other objects will appear in detail in the description which follows.

According to the invention, these objects are achieved by means of a cosmetic applicator holder device comprising: a case inside which is mounted a pusher mechanism capable of come in engagement with training means to selectively pass from a rest position inside the case, to an active position in which the pusher mechanism is capable of driving an applicator which can move in translation in an axial channel formed in a head removably mounted on said case; means for, when removing the head from the case, causing automatically disengagement of the drive means of the mechanism pusher and under the effect of an axial force exerted by return means cause the passage of the push mechanism from the active position to said rest position, characterized in that the drive means have an elasticity including one axial component exerts on the push mechanism, in position of engagement with the drive means, in response to an axial pressure exerted on the push mechanism, via the applicator, when it is engaged with the surface intended to receive the cosmetic product, an axial restoring force in a direction opposite to the sense of the axial force exerted by return means.

Thus mounted, the pusher mechanism, and therefore the applicator are mounted as on a spring, so that, in the application position, when the free end of the applicator is supported on the surface to be treated, the applicator can retract elastically from so as to absorb some of the pressure exerted, thereby increasing the smoothness to the application. The applicator returns to its position, by elastic return, as soon as the pressure.

According to a preferred embodiment, the drive means are constituted at least one organ in the form of two parts, a first part integral with the head, on which it is mounted with radial elasticity, to allow selectively the engagement (respectively disengagement) of drive means with the push mechanism, a second part, integral with the first, able to come into engagement with the push mechanism, and having an axial elasticity to generate said axial restoring force.

Advantageously, the drive means are carried by the head, which allows to be able to give them a larger radial width, thus increasing their elasticity in the axial direction. In addition, in the event of damage to all or part of the drive system, only the removable head is to be changed, not the case. Finally, this characteristic makes it possible to use a rod having a deep thread, thick, and allowing rapid advance of the applicator.

Advantageously also, the drive means are arranged so as to cause the disengagement of the drive means of the push mechanism and the passage of the push mechanism from the active position to said rest position, when the axial pressure exerted on the pusher mechanism exceeds a value given. This feature prevents the mine from being damaged in the excessive pressure exerted on its end, for example, in the event of an accidental fall.

a) un étui cylindrique creux fermé en l'une de ses extrémités;

b) une tige, filetée sur au moins une partie de sa longueur, et montée libre en translation à l'intérieur de l'étui, ladite tige étant immobile en rotation à l'intérieur de l'étui;

c) des moyens de rappel élastiques montés à l'intérieur de l'étui pour, en position de repos, maintenir la tige filetée en rappel contre l'extrémité fermée de l'étui;

d) une tête amovible dans laquelle est ménagée un canal axial destiné à recevoir un applicateur, monté sur une cupule, ledit canal étant ouvert en ses deux extrémités, la première extrémité débouchant sur l'extérieur pour l'application du produit, la seconde permettant le montage amovible de la tête sur l'étui;

e) un système d'entraínement porté par la tête ou par l'étui de manière à être mis en engagement avec le filetage de la tige lors du montage de la tête sur l'étui pour provoquer, par rotation de l'étui par rapport à la tête, l'entraínement de l'applicateur en translation dans ledit canal en vue de la distribution du produit; et

f) des moyens pour permettre le désengagement du système d'entraínement de la tige lors du démontage de la tête.

Advantageously also, the device comprises:

a) a hollow cylindrical case closed at one of its ends;

b) a rod, threaded over at least part of its length, and mounted free in translation inside the case, said rod being stationary in rotation inside the case;

c) elastic return means mounted inside the case for, in the rest position, keep the threaded rod in return against the closed end of the case;

d) a removable head in which is formed an axial channel intended to receive an applicator, mounted on a cup, said channel being open at its two ends, the first end opening onto the outside for the application of the product, the second allowing removable mounting of the head on the case;

e) a drive system carried by the head or by the case so as to be engaged with the thread of the rod when mounting the head on the case to cause, by rotation of the case relative at the head, the drive of the applicator in translation in said channel for the distribution of the product; and

f) means for allowing the disengagement of the rod drive system during disassembly of the head.

The rod can be threaded over all or part of its length. However, preferably, the rod is threaded on a portion delimited by a first limit situated opposite the closed end of the case and a second limit, the drive means comprising a meshing part capable of coming into engagement with the thread of the rod, said meshing part being positioned so that, when mounting the head on the case, the meshing part is substantially opposite the first limit. Thus, the meshing part is, in the constrained position, caused to pass substantially no portion of the thread, which would inevitably cause damage to the thread, or drive means. Furthermore, between the second limit and the end of the rod located in the bottom of the case, the rod can present a portion whose diameter is substantially equal to the diameter of the bottom of the thread.

Thus, according to this advantageous arrangement, when mounting the head on the case, the drive system comes first in contact with the rod, at the very beginning of the thread of the rod, or even (at least for one of the legs) on an unthreaded part of this one.

Coupling means can be provided between the rod and the applicator in order to the training of the latter in the axial channel of the head, the mounting of the head on the case causing the engagement of the drive system with the rod threaded, but does not cause the drive of the applicator in the channel, it intervening only during the first use of the device, by rotation of the head by compared to the case. Thus, when mounting the head, the positioning of the applicator is constant, which avoids mounting too long an output of the applicator, which could cause damage to the applicator. In others terms, the engagement of the drive system with the threaded rod is disconnected from the engagement of the rod and the applicator.

According to a preferred embodiment, the rod comprises, at its end opposite to the closed end of the case, a hooking end, the cup comprising attachment means intended to cooperate in a removable manner with the end piece of attachment of the rod, so as to allow the drive of the applicator in said channel, a rotation of the case relative to the head, causing the entrainment of the applicator in translation in said channel and the attachment of the rod to the cup by closing of the attachment means on said end piece, rotation in the opposite direction of the case relative to the head causing the applicator to rise into the channel, means being provided to release the rod from the cup by opening the means attachment when the applicator is raised inside the channel, while now the applicator inside the channel. According to a preferred embodiment, the applicator is disengaged from the rod, only in the retracted position of the applicator. In this effect, when removing the head, in the extended position of the applicator, the system drive is disengaged from the threaded rod before disengaging the rod relative to the cup, the latter declutching can only occur in the retracted position of the applicator.

Sealing means may be provided in the vicinity of one and / or the other of the ends of the axial channel. These sealing means, in particular in the case of a lipstick can include a block of compressible foam in all directions of space, and one side of which is intended to come into watertight support on a free edge of the head, said face being impermeable to the solvent (s) entering the composition of the applicator, said block of foam being arranged in the bottom of a hood capable of removably covering an opening delimited by said free edge.

The means provided for releasing the rod from the cup may include a part frustoconical formed inside the head, adjacent to said axial channel, said part frustoconical allowing the spacing of the attachment means by elastic return, when these arrive opposite said frustoconical part, thereby releasing the rod. This portion of frustoconical shape allows, when the attachment means are in elastic support against its walls, to keep the applicator in the retracted position at inside the canal.

The means provided for releasing the rod from the cup may further include a groove adjacent to the frusto-conical part so as to allow more spacing important hooking means, the legs in fact, moving apart by elasticity and at least partly enter the grooves. This characteristic is particularly advantageous in the case of a lipstick, the diameter of which is more importantly, compared to some other applicators.

The rod may include, at its end opposite the head, guide means, able to slide inside a groove in the inner wall of the case.

Means may be arranged between the means for guiding the rod and the closed end of the case so as to absorb the impact of the rod on the bottom of the case during the return of the rod under the action of elastic means. Such an arrangement offers also the advantage of reducing the noise and vibrations caused by the recoil elastic return of the rod against the bottom of the device.

The damping means can be carried by the rod guide means and / or by a bottom forming the closed end of the case. Such damping means may include a leaf spring obtained from molding with the part of which it is secured to an overmolded elastomeric member, or to a block of foam.

Advantageously, the closed end of the case has an attached bottom, said bottom having an exhaust and / or return air port, thereby avoiding any boosting phenomenon. The bottom can be slammed, glued, welded or screwed.

According to a preferred embodiment, the elastic return means comprise a helical spring arranged inside the case. Such a spring can have one of its ends in abutment against the rod guide means, the other end being abutment against an annular flange disposed on the inner wall of the case.

According to a preferred embodiment, the drive system comprises at at least one member having a first portion, oriented substantially along the X axis of the device, and a second meshing portion, one free end of which is intended coming into engagement with the threaded rod, said first portion being able to pivot elastically around an axis substantially perpendicular to the X axis to allow selectively, when mounting the head (or disassembling it respectively), placing in engagement (respectively, disengagement) of said free end with the threaded rod, said second portion having elasticity generating, in position of engagement with the drive means, in response to an axial pressure exerted on the rod, via the applicator, an axial restoring force in a direction opposite to the sense of the restoring force generated by the restoring means.

As an indication, the elasticity of the second portion is such that, under the effect of a axial pressure exerted by the applicator, the rod moves axially by a distance between 0.2 mm and 2 mm.

Preferably, the second portion forms with respect to the first, an angle included between 30 ° and 120 °; and preferably between 45 ° and 110 °.

The second portion can have a radial width of between 1.5 mm and 3 mm.

Advantageously, the drive system comprises at least two legs capable of come into engagement with the rod at at least two diametrically opposite points. Preferably, the two points are offset axially, so as to allow a faster engagement of the drive system and the rod.

According to a particular embodiment, the legs have substantially the shape of an L or a V whose top is oriented towards the outside of the case, lights corresponding being arranged in the side wall of the head to escape said legs during disassembly of the head and thus cause the disengagement of legs and stem.

Advantageously, means forming a stop are provided for, in the disassembled position of the head, limit the axial movement of the applicator towards the second head end. Preferably, the stopper is arranged so that it does not does not require an indexed position of the cup to act as a stop.

The legs can be carried by an annular member intended to be mounted on the head, said member also carrying the means intended to form a stop for said applicator. The annular member may consist of a single piece obtained from molding of a thermoplastic material.

According to another embodiment, the drive system includes a nut split carried by the head.

The coupling means can comprise at least two elastically tabs deformable, mounted on the cup, said legs having a shape capable of enclosing the tip of the rod when the latter pushes the applicator inside the channel. Advantageously, the legs are of elastic configuration close to that of rod drive legs, so that, advantageously, they can also act as a shock absorber.

The case can carry at one end opposite to the head, a pencil sharpener. Pencil sharpener may or may not be removable. In the latter case, it can be slammed, glued or welded to the inside of a recess in the bottom of the case.

The case may be of square, oval, triangular, circular, or polygonal. The applicator can consist of a lead, a brush, a felt, a grape, a moss, or a flocked applicator. The product to be applied can be a lipstick, a shade, a mascara, a liner, a kohl, an eye shadow, etc.

The mechanism according to the invention is particularly advantageous in that when a lead is exhausted, the mechanical mechanism is ready to receive a new refill, without requiring additional manipulations to set up the refill. The gentle application is remarkable.

• la figure 1 représente vue en coupe d'un premier mode de réalisation du dispositif selon l'invention;
• la figure 2 est une autre illustration du dispositif de la figure 1 dans laquelle la mine est solidaire du mécanisme poussoir pour pouvoir être déplacée en position d'application;
• la figure 3 représente une autre vue du dispositif représenté aux figures 1 et 2, dans laquelle la tête est démontée de l'étui;
• les figures 4A-4B illustrent deux modes de réalisation du mécanisme poussoir utilisé dans le dispositif porte-applicateur selon l'invention;
• les figures 4C-4D représentent à titre d'exemples, deux formes extérieures différentes du dispositif selon l'invention;
• les figures 5A-5F illustrent de manière schématique différents organes d'entraínement du dispositif selon l'invention; et
• la figure 6 illustre un dispositif selon l'invention utilisé pour un raisin de rouge à lèvres.

In the description which follows, reference will be made to the drawings in which:

• Figure 1 shows a sectional view of a first embodiment of the device according to the invention;
• Figure 2 is another illustration of the device of Figure 1 in which the mine is integral with the pusher mechanism to be able to be moved into the application position;
• Figure 3 shows another view of the device shown in Figures 1 and 2, in which the head is removed from the case;
• Figures 4A-4B illustrate two embodiments of the pusher mechanism used in the applicator holder device according to the invention;
• FIGS. 4C-4D represent, by way of example, two different external shapes of the device according to the invention;
• Figures 5A-5F schematically illustrate different drive members of the device according to the invention; and
• Figure 6 illustrates a device according to the invention used for a lipstick grape.

As shown in Figure 1, the applicator holder device 1 according to the invention mainly comprises a case 2, forming the body of the device, in the form substantially cylindrical, axis X, and closed at one end by a plug 3 which can be welded to the case, or mounted on the case by snapping or gluing. Advantageously, an orifice 202 is provided in the plug so as to allow an air intake when the applicator leaves for a product application. The push mechanism is mounted inside the case 2, and essentially comprises a threaded rod 4 (over at least part of its length). Rod 4 is located substantially on the axis of the case, and is integral with a head 5 (of the fin type). The head 5 is guided in translation in the case, by means of grooves 6, arranged so suitable in the internal surface of the case, the rod being thus immobilized in rotation. The rod is also mounted inside the case by means of a spring 7 (of the type helical) one end of which abuts against an annular flange 8 formed inside the case, and the other end of which is in abutment against the head 5 of the rod 4. Thus, in the rest position, the rod is held against the end closed from the case. Advantageously, there is on the head of the rod, the side located in look at the bottom 3, a spring system, of the leaf type 9, for example, and the function is to reduce noise and absorb the shock caused by the return of the rod (under the action of spring 7) when the head is removed from the case, as we will see in more detail in the following description. Other means, such as for example, a cushion made of elastic material, can be used according to the invention to replace the spring mechanism 9. According to a preferred embodiment, the free end of the rod 4, opposite the head 5 has a tip 17 forming an additional thickness by relative to the diameter of the rod. The tip can be rounded, conical, or other and allows, as will be detailed later, the attachment of the rod to the mine.

As it appears in Figures 4A and 4B, the rod can carry a thread over its entire length (Figure 4A), or, over only part of its length (Figure 4B), the spring being then used to reset the device when the rod has returned its initial position. As will be seen in more detail below, the location and the thread limits are determined so that when mounting the head 10 on the case 2, the meshing part of the legs 23 comes into engagement with the thread, at all start of the latter, so as to limit the number of thread pitches to be passed by the legs under stress.

The device according to the invention also comprises a head (or nose) 10 of shape generally elongated, preferably tapered at one end, and inside which is formed an axial channel 11 whose diameter is adapted to the diameter of a applicator, such as a lead 12 advantageously carried by a cup 14 and intended to be mounted inside the channel. The opposite end of the tapered part of the head has a part 13, the external diameter of which is slightly less than the internal diameter of the case 2, so that it can be removably mounted therein, the edge of the case coming to bear on a shoulder 40 of the head. Advantageously, the external surface of the part 13 comprises an annular groove intended to cooperate by snap with an annular rib formed in the inner surface of the case so to improve the holding of the head on the case, when using the mechanical pencil device. In its part opposite the tapered end, the axial channel 11 opens onto a portion of larger diameter 15 to which it is connected by a frustoconical zone 16.

The head of the device according to the invention also comprises drive means 23, intended during mounting of the head on the case, to come into engagement with the screw thread for, by rotating the head relative to the case, to advance (or back off) the rod in the case. Advantageously, and as it appears more explicitly in FIGS. 5B-5E, these means 23 are carried by an annular member 21, one of which part 20 has an external diameter slightly smaller than the internal diameter of the portion 13 of smaller diameter of the head 10 so that it can be mounted, by breakdown, welding, bonding, or other technique, inside said portion 13. The other end 22 of the annular member forms a slightly diameter rim greater than the internal diameter of the part 20 so as to bear against the transverse edge of the portion 13. On the transverse edge of the portion 20, there are two legs 23, elastically deformable and intended to be positioned opposite corresponding lights 24, formed in the wall of the head 10. In the mode of illustrated embodiment, the legs define an L or V shape whose apex is oriented outwards so that, in the absence of constraints, it fits into the lights 24. In the disassembled position, the top of the legs emerges substantially at the through lights 24, as shown in Figure 5C.

Thus, as it appears in Figures 1 and 2, when the head is mounted on the case, the walls of it press on the top of the drive legs 23, so as to constrain them into engagement with the thread of the rod 4 so as to form a nut and be able to drive the rod in one direction or the other, depending on the direction of rotation of the head relative to the case.

According to an essential characteristic of the invention, the drive legs 23, form an elastically deformable structure whose portion 201 in engagement with the rod gives axial elasticity to the positioning of the rod, and therefore the applicator driven by the rod. In the illustrated embodiment, the rod is driven by two legs 23, arranged at two diametrically points opposite to the rod. Alternatively, and although this solution does not constitute not the preferred solution, the training of the threaded rod can be done with a single leg 23. Advantageously, the engagement points of each of the legs 23 are slightly offset axially (of the order of one turn of the thread for example).

Each of the legs generally has the shape of an L having a first part 200, which, in the mounted position of the head is substantially parallel to the X axis of the device. One end of the part 200 is integral with the annular member 21 (described with reference to FIGS. 5B and 5C), mounted on the head 10. The other end is integral a part 201 which is substantially perpendicular thereto, and the free end of which is intended to come into engagement with the threaded rod 4. The portion 200 of each of legs 23 is located opposite a corresponding lumen 24, capable of allowing, by elastic return, disengagement of the legs 23 from the threaded rod during disassembly of the head. Indeed, during the disassembly of the head, the legs 23 are no longer constrained through the internal wall of the device body. The legs 23 have an elasticity of which a radial component causes, by elastic return, the pivoting of the part 200, substantially around an axis A (FIG. 5B) perpendicular to the axis X of the device. The part 200 penetrates, at least partially, into the corresponding slot 24 (see Figure 5C). The part 201 then deviates substantially radially relative to the rod 4, which releases the rod, which, under the effect of the restoring force exerted by the spring 7, returns to the rest position in the bottom of the device.

The portion 201 which, when the head is mounted, is located substantially in the vicinity of the start of the thread of the rod 4 has a radial width which can range from 1.5 to 3 mm. This portion 201 has an axial elasticity which is such that when an axial pressure is exerted on the applicator (for example, when the applicator is pressed on surface to be treated), the elastically deformable part 201 closes slightly on the part 200 (by a folding movement substantially around the axis B), this which causes a slight axial recoil of the free end of the legs 23 (towards the bottom from the case). The rod moves back in the same way, then, by elastic return generated by the portion 201, returns to its initial position. Typically, the recoil can range from 0.2 mm to 2 mm. This elasticity depends to a large extent on the material used (from preferably a thermoplastic material), of the radial width of the part 201, of the angle between the part 200 and the part 201 preferably, close to 90 °). So mounted, the rod 4, and therefore consequently, the applicator 112, are mounted as on a spring, which gives the application a remarkable softness. Of course, the legs 23 must be rigid enough to drive the rod against the return force exerted by the spring 7.

Furthermore, it should be noted that, advantageously, if the pressure exerted on the applicator (for example, during a fall) is too strong, this generates a greater folding of the part 201 onto the part 200, that is to say a closure greater the angle between the part 201 and the part 200. This folding more significant causes disengagement of the legs 23 relative to the rod, which returns by elastic return, in the rest position against the bottom of the case. This advantageous feature limits the risk of accidental damage to the tip of the applicator.

When mounting the head, which corresponds substantially to the position illustrated in the Figure 1, the cylindrical part 13 is inserted into the open end of the case 2. This doing so, the legs 23 are constrained by the inner surface of the case, which causes their engagement with the beginning of the threading of the rod 4. At this stage it is at note that the applicator is not yet driven by the rod, the drive is not making that during the first use by turning the head 10 relative to the case 2. Thus, each time a new head 10 is mounted on the case, the positioning of the applicator is constant. In other words, mounting the head (and setting engagement of the drive legs 23 and of the rod 4) is an operation disconnected from the applicator drive for application.

The legs 23 can be made of metal, plastic, or any other material offering the desired elasticity. In the illustrated embodiment, the legs 23 are of shape close to that of an L. In reality, their shape is close to that of an L in constrained position (Figures 1 and 2), and close to that of a V in an unconstrained position (Figure 5B-5E). According to an advantageous embodiment, the legs 23 are obtained for molding a thermoplastic material (polyethylene or polypropylene), a single piece with the member 21 which supports them.

When the head is removed from the case (by traction for example), the tabs 23 return elastically to the open position, thereby disengaging from the threaded rod 4 which can then return to the rest position by the action of the spring 7.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 5D and 5E, the annular member 21 carries also a ring 50, connected to the part 20 by two arms 51, 52, arranged at 90 ° by relative to the drive legs 23. The internal diameter of the ring is such that the rod 4 and end piece 17 can pass freely through, so that they can come in engagement with the legs 32 and 33 of the cup 14. However, the internal diameter of the ring 50 is such that the latter forms, when the part 21 is inserted into the head 10 (see FIG. 5E), an annular stop which prevents the lead 12 from coming out of the head 10 by the orifice delimited by the portion of larger diameter 15, the length of the arms 51, 52 being chosen so that, in the retracted position of the mine, the ring 50 is located at the near the free end of the legs 32, 33.

According to another embodiment illustrated in Figure 5F, the drive of the rod is produced by means of a threaded split nut 100 carried by the head. This threaded nut comprises two half-shells 101, 102 separated by a slot 103, and the surface of which internal comprises at least at its end, a thread 104 capable of cooperating with the rod thread. In the same way as for the legged embodiment elastic, the split nut is bent, which gives axial positioning of the applicator, the desired elasticity.

Mine 12 is mounted on a cup 14 which will now be described in more detail with reference to Figure 5A. This cup has a side skirt 30, one of which end is open to receive the mine and generally cylindrical in shape adapted to the shape of the mine. The internal diameter of the cup is slightly greater than the diameter of the mine, which can be held in the cup by various suitable means, such as ribs on the inner wall of the cup, or by gluing. The other end can be closed with a wall transverse 31. On the bottom 31 and opposite the side skirt 30, are mounted advantageously two attachment tabs 32, 33 made of a material, preferably elastically deformable, so that, at rest, deviate from the axis of the cup 30, as it appears in figure 1. According to an alternative, the legs are connected to the rest of the cup by a hinged mechanism constituted by a zone of least thickness at the bottom 31. The shape of the hanging tabs is such that they can grip the end piece 17 of the rod when the tabs advance in the axial channel 11. According to a preferred embodiment, each of the attachment tabs defines substantially an L shape.

According to another embodiment, the bottom of the cup is open, at least in part, so as to be able to sink the mine before mounting on the device, through the bottom of the cup.

Furthermore, even if the attachment of the mine is a preferred embodiment of the invention, so as to allow both the exit and the re-entry of the mine into the However, this function is not essential. Indeed, according to a mode of possible realization, the rod does not include means for hooking the cup so that the mine is only driven in the direction of exit, and this until full use. Under these conditions, the disassembly of the head, for example by traction, only causes the release of the rod relative to the head and the rise of the rod against the bottom of the case, under the effect of the return force of the spring. In this configuration, means must be provided to retain the mine inside the channel. For example, it is possible to provide notches on the internal surface of the channel axial, able to cooperate with one or more corresponding members (pins or ribs) provided on the external surface of the cup, crossing the notches effected by force, under the effect of the push of the rod 4. Other arrangements still can be provided to keep the mine inside the canal.

The operation of the device according to the invention will now be explained in more detail. detail with reference to Figures 1 to 3 and 5C. In FIG. 5C, the head is removed from the case (for example, by pulling). As it appears, the mine went up inside of the axial channel of the head 10. The attachment tabs 32, 33 are opposite the frustoconical portion 16, and held in abutment against the walls of the portion frustoconical by elastic return effect. The drive legs 23, are in rest position, i.e. separated from the axis of the head, the top of the V they define emerging from part 13, through the lights 24. As it appears Figure 3, in the case 2, the rod 4 carrying the thread, is held in abseiling against the bottom 3 of the case thanks to the spring 7.

In the position of Figure 1, the head 10 is mounted on the case 2. the legs 23, constrained by the walls of the case 2 are in engagement with the beginning of the thread of the rod 4. The end piece 17 of the rod 4 is located between the tabs hooking 32, 33 of the cup, which legs are at the level of the zone frustoconical of the canal formed inside the head, which allows the legs to move outward, substantially against the frusto-conical surface, thereby preventing the mine to descend into the canal. It should be noted that in a position such that shown in Figure 1, the head is held resiliently on the case by means of the return spring, which makes it possible to limit the head / case tightening and to soften the rotation of the head relative to the body of the device, each function being separate.

A rotation of the head relative to the case causes an advance of the rod 4 between the legs 32, 33 of the cup 14 (Figure 2). The tip 17 then pushes the mine into the channel, which causes the tabs 32, 33 to close on the end piece, thus joining the stem of the cup. The end of the mine can thus be taken out of the head in order to the application of the product. When the application is finished, a counter-rotation of the head 10 relative to the case 2 causes a retreat of the mine, until the legs 32, 32 are no longer kept inside the channel, i.e. until they are located opposite the frustoconical part 16. At this time, mine 12 is not more integral with the rod 4.

Thus, if in use, the head is removed from the case (by pulling the head by compared to the case), this causes a rise of the mine 12 inside the channel 11, the spacing of the drive lugs 23 relative to the thread of the rod, the reminder of the rod against the bottom 3 of the case 2 under the action of the return spring 7, the separation of the rod 4 relative to the mine when the latter is completely reentry in the channel (11), the release of the head relative to the body of the case. From this fact, in use it is very easy to change the product, for example shade, by simply replacing the device head.

Figures 4C and 4D illustrate different forms of the device according to the present invention. In the embodiment of FIG. 4C, the cross section is of Oval shape; in that of FIG. 4D the cross section is substantially square, which was difficult to achieve with conventional devices as discussed in the preamble to this description. It is obvious that other forms still can be used (triangular, circular, square, polygonal, oval, diamond). The dimensions of the cross section of the device according to the invention are chosen according to the nature of the product to be applied (lipstick, shade, shade to eyelids, etc.).

Flocking can be provided either on the applicator or on the internal walls of the channel axial of the head, so as to limit the play of the applicator in the head of the device. A such flocking can also be arranged on the outer surface of the end of the head.

Advantageously also, the device comprises a protective plug which may be mounted on the head (by screwing or snapping for example) to protect the mine.

In FIG. 6 to which reference is now made, the device according to the invention is used for an applicator 12 in the form of a lipstick grape. Of the same so that for the other embodiments, the lipstick grape is mounted in a cup 14. Means 62 are provided under the cup and / or on the inner wall of the axial channel 11, so as to seal and / or form a stop to prevent the grapes from coming out of the head through the orifice delimited by the portion of larger diameter 15. In the latter case, the lipstick grape cannot be mounted in the head only through the outlet orifice delimited by the free edge 64 of the head. In this embodiment, and given the larger diameter of the applicator and from the cup 14, an annular groove 63 is provided to allow clearance sufficient legs 32 and 33, when the applicator is in the retracted position in the head 10, as shown in Figure 6, and allow to separate the applicator 12 from the rod 4.

A cover 60 is mounted by snap-fitting or by screwing on the head 10. A block of foam 61 is arranged in the bottom of the cover so as to seal in the closed position of the hood on the head, the face of the block of foam intended to come to bear on the edge free 64 of the head 10 being impervious to the solvent (s) contained in the formulation lipsticks. The foam block is chosen so that it is in leaktight support on the free edge 64 of the head, at any point of said edge, regardless of the profile of the edge (bevel or straight). Such a device is particularly suitable for the formulation to highly volatile solvents. Alternatively, the sealing of the free edge 64 is ensured by a waterproof skirt obtained from molding with the cover 60.

In the foregoing detailed description, reference has been made to modes of preferred embodiments of the invention. Obviously there may be variations made without departing from the spirit of the invention as claimed below. As example for example, it is possible, in the case of a pencil, to provide a size pencil arranged for example, in a recess in the bottom 3 of the device.

Claims (35)

1. Cosmetic applicator holder device comprising: a case (2) of axis X, and inside which is mounted a push-rod mechanism (4, 17) capable of engaging with drive means (23) to move selectively from a position of rest inside the case (2), into an active position in which the push-rod mechanism is capable of driving along an applicator (12) capable of moving in translational movement in an axial passage (11) formed in a head (10) mounted removably on the said case (2); means (24, 7) for, when the head (10) is removed from the case (2), automatically causing the drive means (23) to disengage from the push-rod mechanism (4, 17) and, under the effect of an axial force exerted by return means (7), causing the push-rod mechanism to move from the active position to the said position of rest, characterized in that the drive means have an elasticity whose axial component exerts, on the push-rod mechanism, in the position engaged with the drive means (23), in response to an axial pressure exerted on the push-rod mechanism via the applicator, when it is placed in engagement with the surface intended to receive the cosmetic product, an axial return force in the opposite direction to the direction of the axial force exerted by the return means (7).
2. Applicator holder device according to Claim 1, characterized in that the drive means (23) consist of at least one elastically deformable member in the form of two portions (200, 201), a first portion (200) secured to the head (10) and capable of pivoting elastically to selectively, when the head is fitted (or respectively removed), allow the drive means (23) to be placed in engagement with (or, respectively, to be disengaged from) the push-rod mechanism (4), a second portion (201) secured to the first and capable of coming into a position of engagement with the push-rod mechanism (4) and, in the said position, having axial elasticity for generating the said axial return force.
3. Applicator holder device according to Claim 2, characterized in that, in the said position of engagement, the first portion is approximately parallel to the axis X, the second portion (201) making an angle with respect to the first (200).
4. Applicator holder device according to Claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the elasticity of the second portion (201) is such that, under the effect of axial pressure exerted via the applicator (12), the push-rod mechanism (4) moves axially by a distance of between 0.2 mm and 2 mm.
5. Applicator holder device according to Claim 3, characterized in that the second portion (201) makes, with respect to the first (200), an angle of between 30° and 120° and preferably of between 45° and 110°.
6. Applicator holder device according to any one of Claims 2 to 5, characterized in that the second portion (201) has a radial width of between 1.5 mm and 3 mm.
7. Applicator holder device according to any one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the drive means comprise at least two tabs (23) capable of coming into engagement with the push-rod mechanism (4) at least at two diametrically opposed points.
8. Applicator holder device according to Claim 7, characterized in that the said tabs (23) are approximately in the shape of an L or of a V, the vertex of which points towards the outside of the case, corresponding slots (24) being formed in a lateral wall of the head to escape the said tabs (23) when the head is being removed and thus cause the tabs (23) to disengage from the push-rod mechanism (4).
9. Applicator holder device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drive means are arranged in such a way as to cause their disengagement from the push-rod mechanism (4, 17) and cause the push-rod mechanism to change from the active position to the said position of rest when the axial pressure exerted on the push-rod mechanism exceeds a given value.
10. Applicator holder device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises:

    a) a hollow cylindrical case (2) closed at one of its ends (3);

    b) a rod (4) which is threaded over at least part of its length and mounted so that it is free to translate inside the case, the said rod being prevented from rotating inside the case;

    c) elastic return means (7) mounted inside the case to keep the threaded rod returned against the closed end of the case in the position of rest;

    d) a removable head (10) in which there is formed an axial passage (11) intended to take an applicator (12) mounted on a cup (14), the said passage being open at both of its ends, the first end opening to the outside for applying the product, the second allowing the head (10) to be fitted removably on the case (2);

    e) drive means (23) carried by the head or by the case in such a way as to be placed in engagement with the thread of the rod (4) when the head is fitted on the case so as, by twisting the case with respect to the head, to drive the applicator (12) in translational movement in the said passage (11) with a view to dispensing some product; and

    f) means (24) for allowing the drive means and the rod to be disengaged when the head is removed.
11. Applicator holder device according to any one of Claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the drive means (23) are carried by the head (10) of the device.
12. Applicator holder device according to Claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the rod (4) is threaded over a portion delimited by a first boundary located opposite the closed end (3) of the case and a second boundary, the drive means (23) comprising a meshing end capable of engaging with the thread of the rod, the said meshing end being positioned in such a way that, when the head (10) is fitted on the case, the meshing end is approximately facing the first boundary.
13. Applicator holder device according to any one of Claims 10 to 12, characterized in that it comprises means of coupling (17, 32, 33) between the rod (4) and the applicator (12) so as to drive the latter in the axial passage (11) of the head, the fitting of the head on the case causing the drive system (23) to engage with the threaded rod (4) but not causing the applicator to be driven along the passage (11), this driving not occurring until the device is first used, by twisting the head with respect to the case.
14. Applicator holder device according to any one of Claims 10 to 13, characterized in that the rod comprises, at its opposite end to the closed end of the case, a catching fitting (17), the cup (14) comprising catching means (32, 33) intended to collaborate removably with the catching fitting (17) of the rod so as to allow the applicator to be driven along the said passage (11), a twisting of the case with respect to the head causing the applicator (12) to be driven in translational movement in the said passage (11) and causing the rod (4) to catch on the cup (14) through closure of the catching means (32, 33) onto the said fitting, twisting the cap in the opposite direction with respect to the head causing the applicator (12) to be retracted back into the passage (11), means (16, 32, 33) being provided for releasing the rod from the cup by opening the catching means when the applicator is retracted back into the passage, while keeping the applicator inside the passage.
15. Applicator holder device according to any one of Claims 1 to 14, characterized in that sealing means (61, 62) are provided near one and/or the other of the ends of the axial passage (11).
16. Applicator holder device according to Claim 15, characterized in that the sealing means comprise a block of foam (61) which is compressible in all directions in space, and one face of which is intended to come into sealed contact with a free edge (64) of the head (10), the said face being impervious to the solvent (or solvents) involved in the composition of the applicator, the said block of foam (61) being arranged in the bottom of a cap (60) capable of removably covering an opening delimited by the said free edge (64).
17. Applicator holder device according to Claim 14, characterized in that the means designed for releasing the rod from the cup comprise a frustoconical part (16) formed inside the head, adjacent to the said axial passage (11), the said frustoconical part allowing the catching means (32, 33) to be separated by elastic return when these come to face the said frustoconical part (16), thus releasing the rod (4).
18. Applicator holder device according to Claim 17, characterized in that the means designed to release the rod from the cup further comprise a slot (63) adjacent to the frustoconical part (16) so as to allow the catching means (32, 33) to separate further.
19. Applicator holder device according to any one of Claims 10 to 18, characterized in that the rod (4) at its opposite end to the head comprises guide means (5) which can slide inside a groove (6) formed in the interior wall of the case.
20. Applicator holder device according to Claim 19, characterized in that means (9) are arranged between the rod-guiding means and the closed end of the case so as to deaden the impact of the rod against the blind end of the case as the rod returns under the action of the elastic means (7).
21. Applicator holder device according to Claim 20, characterized in that the means (9) are borne by the rod-guiding means (5) and/or by a blind end (3) forming the closed end of the case.
22. Applicator holder device according to Claim 20 or 21, characterized in that the means (9) consist of a spring leaf obtained by moulding with the part to which it is secured, of an overmoulded elastomeric member or of a block of foam.
23. Applicator holder device according to any one of Claims 10 to 22, characterized in that the closed end of the case comprises an attached end (3), the said end having an orifice (202) for venting and/or taking in air.
24. Applicator holder device according to Claim 23, characterized in that the attached end is snap-fastened, bonded, welded or screwed on.
25. Applicator holder device according to any one of Claims 10 to 24, characterized in that the said elastic returns comprise a coil spring (7) arranged inside the case.
26. Applicator holder device according to Claim 25, characterized in that one end of the spring is in abutment against the rod-guiding means (5), the other end being in abutment against an annular flange (8) arranged on the internal wall of the case.
27. Applicator holder device according to any one of Claims 10 to 26, characterized in that stop-forming means (50, 51, 52) are provided so as to limit the axial movement of the applicator (12) towards the second end of the head (10) when the head is removed.
28. Applicator holder device according to Claim 27, characterized in that the tabs (23) are borne by an annular member (21) intended to be mounted on the head (10), the said member (21) also bearing the means (50, 51, 52) intended to form a stop for the-said applicator (12).
29. Applicator holder device according to Claim 28, characterized in that the annular member consists of a single piece obtained by moulding of a thermoplastic material.
30. Applicator holder device according to any one of Claims 10 to 27, characterized in that the drive system comprises a split nut (101-104) borne by the head.
31. Applicator holder device according to any one of Claims 13 to 30, characterized in that the coupling means comprise at least two elastically deformable tabs (32, 33) mounted on the cup (14), the said tabs having a shape capable of gripping the fitting (17) of the rod when the latter pushes the applicator inside the passage.
32. Applicator holder device according to any one of Claims 1 to 31, characterized in that the case carries a pencil sharpener at the opposite end to the head (10).
33. Applicator holder device according to any one of Claims 1 to 32, characterized in that the case is of square, oval, triangular, circular or polygonal cross section.
34. Applicator holder device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the applicator consists of a lead, of a brush, of a felt, of a pellet, of a foam or of a flocked applicator.
35. Applicator holder device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the product that is to be applied is a lipstick, a foundation colour, a mascara, an eyeliner, a kohl pencil, an eye shadow, etc.

Images