EP0861616B1 - Device for applying make-up on keratinic fibers, particularly on eyelashes, and storing and application unit using such a device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a device for applying a product of make-up of keratin fibers, in particular of the eyelashes. The invention is everything particularly suitable for making up eyelashes, using mascara, packaged either in liquid or solid form (in the form of a loaf or a cake), or semi solid, (in the form for example, of a block of cell foam open or semi open, impregnated with product in fluid form).

Numerous application and conditioning devices have been proposed. mascara. Bread mascara for example, as shown in Figure 1 attached, are used with a brush 300 of the shoe polish brush, which is rubbed the tips of the hairs 600 on a moistened mascara bar. The application surface mascara is the surface formed by the tips of the bristles of the brush. On this figure, we see the brush 300 loading an eyelash 200, the bristles 600 being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the eyelash. The load variation is proportional to the viscosity of the dough constituted by the moistened bread. The use of such a device is tedious: indeed, on the one hand it requires the preparation and the preliminary dosage of the dough and on the other hand, the gesture of the makeup is very imprecise. In addition, over use, the surface of the "bread" becomes hollow. It becomes difficult to properly load the brush by the free end of the hairs. The quality of makeup is affected in a way substantial. Finally, such brushes quickly clog up, by depositing product between the bristles of the brush.

Numerous application and conditioning devices have also been proposed. liquid mascara comprising a rigid tubular body open at one end, containing the mascara, and an applicator capable of being housed in this body, dipping into mascara and fitted with a brush. An element housed in the body ensures the brush is wrung when the applicator is removed from the body. Typically, such a brush has a central core formed of twisted wires enclosing hairs. These hairs form a spiral whose axis is the soul. Makeup keratin fibers, in particular the eyelashes, is made by rotating the applicator around the core. The smoothing of the eyelashes is therefore done with bristles oriented perpendicular to the eyelashes.

These applicators have many drawbacks. Indeed, they do not allow not always an optimal load of keratin fibers, and in particular of eyelashes: the bristles of the brush, arranged in a spiral perpendicular to the central core of it, are short and it is very difficult to smooth the eyelashes over their entire length. The gesture, which consists in rotating the applicator along its longitudinal axis, is also difficult and very imprecise. The eyelashes are not always well separated.

In addition, the brush wringing being done perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of these hairs, the mascara formula is very often sheared and it loses the qualities due to its particular viscosity: the formula can form lumps, this phenomenon resulting in poor smoothing of the eyelashes. This requires to use compositions insensitive to shear and limits the number of compositions of usable mascara. This is particularly the case for mascara high pigment load. Finally, the element housed in the body for wringing the brush causes, when removing the latter, an unpleasant suction noise due to the depression created inside the body.

Still in the field of liquid mascara, it is known from the demand for French Patent No. 2,564,712, to use for the application of small quantities of cosmetic product in tightly confined areas such as the corners of eyes, use a brush whose free end has a small number of bristles arranged axially. The application of cosmetic product, such as mascara, on most of the user's eyelash arch is produced using a brush conventional, either separate from the brush with axial bristles, or formed with bristles arranged radially on the rod, the end of which carries axial bristles (see FIG. 8 of the request referenced above).

Although satisfactory in many respects, brush type applicators have the disadvantage of being fragile. Indeed, experience shows that over the uses, the bristles break or degrade, due to significant stresses to which they are subjected, in particular during the introduction of the applicator in the container containing the formula to be applied, in particular when the introduction of the applicator through the wringing device, used in conventional packaging and application units, and also during of the application of the product on the surface to be treated. In addition, such applicators suffer from rapid fouling.

Document US-A-4,726,387 shows a device for applying a product cosmetic whose applicator member is formed by a sponge.

Also, there remains the need for a device for applying a makeup product. keratin fibers, in particular the eyelashes, which do not have the disadvantages mentioned with reference to conventional application devices, and which allows in particular, a simple and homogeneous makeup of keratin fibers.

According to one aspect of the invention, these objects are achieved by carrying out a device for applying a makeup product for keratin fibers, in particular eyelashes, comprising a handle with a substantially flat profile, and carrying at least one applicator member having a free end, said member applicator consisting of a blade defining a unitary structure, elastically deformable in a multi-directional manner, integral with a first end of the handle, and arranged substantially parallel to a plane of the handle, said blade having two main faces, the surface of one at less of the faces having reliefs capable of retaining product, after setting contact of a substantial part of said surface with the product, the restitution of the product made by bringing said substantial part into contact with the keratin fibers, along the axis of said fibers, the width of said free end, measured in a first direction (X) parallel to said plane, being at least equal to a quarter of the average width of an eyelash arc. The blade, thus formed of an elastically deformable material, forms a deformable structure in all directions of space, especially in compression, torsion, stretch, which gives it the ability to conform to any profile of surface to be treated, or to any surface profile on which must be collected the product.

The terminology "unitary structure" aims to differentiate the invention from any structure of conventional application, of the bristle type for example, in which the bristles forming the brush, are free from each other, on a part substantial in length, and can rotate relative to each other independently. According to the invention, the blade, whatever may be of multi-layer structure, forms a unitary structure, in terms of mobility.

The reliefs present on one and / or the other of the faces of the blade retain the product, in particular by the effect of surface tension or capillarity.

Within the meaning of the present application, the term "eyelash arc" designates the curve medium (typically in an arc) on which the eyelashes of a adult person. Typically, the average width of an eyelash arc for a adult person varies between about 3 cm and 4 cm. With a wide blade less than about ¼ the average width of an eyelash arch, the homogeneity of the makeup obtained is not satisfactory.

With such a configuration, in the case of a mascara, the withdrawal of the product is carried out by bringing the blade into contact over a substantial part of its length, with the product, either by immersion in a liquid formula, or by tangential contact of one of the faces of the blade with the free surface of a solid or semi solid block. Restoration of mascara on keratin fibers is carried out by bringing the blade into contact over a substantial part of its length with said keratin fibers, and this, according to the length of said fibers.

The applicator member, because of its structure, its method of loading (by bringing the blade into contact over a substantial part of its length, with the length of keratin fibers, not by the tips of the bristles conventional), and its thin thickness will not clog so substantial, and will resolubilize the dry product instantly. The free end of the blade may have teeth, advantageously used to separate the eyelashes after application.

Furthermore, with such a substantially flat configuration of the handle, the latter can be easily caught between thumb and forefinger. In addition, in the case of a mascara, the application of the product is no longer done in an uncertain way by making rotate the applicator along its axis as in known applicators, but by smoothing the keratin fibers, and in particular the eyelashes, over their entire length, from their base to their end, the blade tangent to the lashes. The gesture is much simpler than with known applicators. It is also possible tilt the applicator at will and thus curl the eyelashes according to the curvature desired.

The width of the applicator member can be between 0.75 cm and 3 cm.

The free end of the applicator member has a thickness which, from preferably, is at most equal to the thickness of said first end of the handle, these thicknesses being measured in a direction (Y) perpendicular audit plan. Typically such a thickness is between 0.5 mm and 5 mm.

The blade has an effective length sufficient to ensure optimal loading of keratin fibers treated. For eyelashes, the average length of the blade, according to a third direction (Z) perpendicular to the first and second directions, goes preferably from 10 mm to 60 mm, and preferably ranges from 10 mm to 30 mm, and more preferably, ranges from 15 mm to 20 mm.

The applicator blade has a flexible to semi-rigid consistency. This relative rigidity ensures more efficient eyelash straightening and very good curling of these last. The elastically deformable material has a hardness of between 10 shore A and 90 shore D, and preferably between 30 shore A and 60 shore D. For example, the applicator blade is made of elastomeric material chosen from the group of elastomers of polyethylene, polyurethane, polyester, polyether block amides; polyvinyls; ter-polymers ethylene, propylene and a diene (EPDM); styrene-butadiene polymers sequenced (SEBS-SIS); silicone, nitrile, butyl elastomers, etc ..

The blade may also include slip agents such as bisulphide molybdenum, bactericidal agents such as the Microban® product sold by the Microban Product Company, or moisture absorbing agents.

The applicator member is, according to a variant of the present invention, constituted at least one block of open cell, semi-open or closed cell foam. AT As an indication, one can use a foam of polyurethane, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyether, NBR (natural rubber), SBR (synthetic rubber), etc.

Advantageously, said applicator member comprises a resilient core deformable sandwiched between two foam blades. This characteristic stiffens the structure of the applicator blade, in particular in the case liquid products, for which it is necessary to pass the organ applicator through a wringing device before application. Such a stiffening of the structure facilitates the introduction of the applicator blade in the wringer.

The elastically deformable core may have a length depending on the direction (Z), greater than the length of the foam blocks between which it is caught sandwich, said core having in the vicinity of the free end of the member applicator, means such as teeth or bristles, capable of separating the keratin fibers after application. Such means can be obtained from molding with the applicator blade, be glued or stapled to the free end of the blade, or be over-injected on the blade.

In particular in the case of a foam applicator, the reliefs can be consisting of an embossing, oriented in the direction (Z), said embossing being obtained by stamping, or by means of longitudinal welds. However, in the case of a foam, it should be noted that the only surface condition, relatively rough, foam can define reliefs sufficient to retain liquid in quantity sufficient. In the case of open or semi-open cell foam, the liquid is also retained in the foam cells.

The reliefs may consist of grooves, ridges, flocking, orifices crossing at least in part the thickness of the blade, bumps in the form of diamonds, grooves, craters, etc.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the applicator member comprises a flocking on at least part of at least one of its faces. Such flocking participates, at least in part in the retention of the liquid on the applicator blade. Through elsewhere, it gives more softness to makeup. Such flocking can be made up of a mixture of hairs of different diameters, and / or different natures, and / or different lengths, and / or different hardnesses.

The shape of the free end of the applicator is chosen according to the application to achieve. For example, the free end of the applicator member has a bevel, concave, or convex shape.

The handle of the applicator member can be made of elastomeric material of so as to give it a certain flexibility.

Still within the framework of the invention, the handle may have a profile slightly curved axially, like a tile, the applicator blade following the curvature of the handle. Alternatively, the handle can be flexible, from so as to allow the user to give it such a shape slightly curved during application, in order to conform substantially to the curve of the eyelash arch. Alternatively again, the handle can be articulated in two parts, along an axis parallel to direction X. This characteristic contributes to improve the make-up gestures. In the case of a product packaged in the form of a solid or semi-solid product block, the articulation makes it easier to set up contact of one or the other side of the blade with the block of product.

The end of the handle opposite to said first end may include means for separating keratin fibers after application. Such an element of separation advantageously completes the combing carried out by the free end of the applicator blade, if necessary with teeth. Such a separating element can consist of a comb. When the application device according to the invention is used in a packaging type package, the body of the case, when it is in the closed position, can act as a handle for said comb. Such a comb can be produced by molding with the handle. Alternatively, said separation element consists of a brush comprising an arrangement of bristles arranged radially on a central core.

The handle can consist of two parts articulated around a parallel axis to said first direction. This characteristic allows an inclination of the applicator member, with respect to the handle, which improves the body language. A such articulation can be achieved by means of a film hinge or a angle.

According to another aspect of the invention, a set of packaging and application of a makeup product for keratin fibers, in particular eyelashes, comprising a reservoir containing said product in the form liquid, said tank being provided with a wringing device, said tank being closed removably by an application device according to the invention.

Advantageously, the wringing device consists of a section sleeve adapted to the section of the applicator member, so as to wring it out along its axis longitudinal. The sleeve has an internal surface which can be covered, at least partially from a flocking.

The sleeve may also have reliefs on at least part of its internal surface, so as to substantially reduce the piston effect, when removing the applicator, which effect is responsible for the suction noise previously mentioned. The wringer may have at least one slot longitudinal. Such a wringing device can be made of foam, elastomer, or made of thermoplastic material.

Advantageously, the liquid product, as well as the wringing device, are contained inside a flexible pocket, the withdrawal of the applicator member, in view of an application causing a depression inside the pocket, said depression pressing the internal walls of the pocket against the faces of the organ applicator, so as to spread the liquid product on said faces. In this hypothesis, the wringer can be molded with the flexible pocket. Such a configuration ensures better distribution of the product on the applicator blade.

According to another aspect of the invention, a set of packaging and application of a makeup product for keratin fibers, in particular eyelashes, comprising: a) a body comprising a bottom in which is placed a solid or semi-solid block of said product, having a free surface, and a cover for removably covering said bottom; and b) a device of application in accordance with the invention, the product being removed by bringing the blade into contact over a substantial part of its length, with the free surface of the product block.

Advantageously, in the closed position of the assembly, the handle is located, at less in part, outside of a substantially enclosed volume formed when the cover is in the closed position on the bottom. This arrangement reduces substantially the size of the housing, especially in thickness and / or in width. Furthermore, the handle is thus isolated from the product, which allows to keep it clean. Such a configuration allows all of makeup thus produced a form similar to the devices used for the formulas mascara liquids. It also allows de-canalization of forms.

According to one embodiment, the cover is slidably mounted on the bottom, the handle serving as an actuating member to cause the opening of the packaging and application unit, and allow access to the block of product. This characteristic eliminates the presence of means which are most often complex, expensive and fragile. Alternatively, the cover can be hinged on the bottom.

The handle can be obtained by molding an elastomeric material or thermoplastic.

Preferably, in the case of an application device comprising a handle articulated, in the closed position of the cover on the bottom, the articulation is contained at inside the case, so as to immobilize the handle relative to said plane.

The product can be introduced into the bottom by compaction, by hot pouring or cold, or directly in the form of a block, made integral with the bottom by any appropriate means (bonding for example). The free surface of the product may be flat or form a convex or concave profile. The structure of the applicator, due to its multi-directional flexibility, is able to perfectly fit such a profile, and therefore authorizes a uniform loading. Alternatively, we make a semi block solid, in the form of a block of foam, with open or semi-open cells, in which the product is impregnated in fluid form. This characteristic allows a product ready to use, without the need to moisten it previously. For example, a polyurethane foam is used, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, epoxy resin, or polystyrene.

• la figure 1 est une vue en coupe illustrant le maquillage d'un cil à l'aide d'une brosse de type brosse à cirage d'un mascara "pain";
• la figure 2 est une vue en coupe illustrant le maquillage d'un cil à l'aide d'un dispositif d'application selon l'invention;
• la figure 3 illustre un premier mode de réalisation du dispositif d'application selon l'invention;
• les figures 4A-4C illustrent trois variantes du mode de réalisation de la figure 3;
• la figure 5 illustre une autre variante du mode de réalisation de la figure 3;
• la figure 6 illustre un second mode de réalisation du dispositif d'application selon l'invention;
• la figure 7 illustre un troisième mode de réalisation du dispositif d'application selon l'invention;
• les figures 8A-8D illustrent un quatrième mode de réalisation du dispositif d'application selon l'invention;
• les figures 9, 10, 11A-11B, et 12 illustrent un ensemble de conditionnement, d'un produit de maquillage sous forme liquide, utilisant un dispositif d'application selon l'invention; et
• les figures 13A-13C, 14A-14B, 15, 16, et 17A-17B, illustrent différents modes de réalisation d'un ensemble de conditionnement, d'un produit de maquillage sous forme d'un bloc solide ou semi solide, et utilisant un dispositif d'application selon l'invention.

The invention consists, apart from the arrangements set out above, of a certain number of other arrangements which will be explained below, with reference to nonlimiting exemplary embodiments, described with reference to the appended figures, among which:

• Figure 1 is a sectional view illustrating the makeup of an eyelash using a brush of the waxing brush type of a "bread"mascara;
• Figure 2 is a sectional view illustrating the makeup of an eyelash using an application device according to the invention;
• FIG. 3 illustrates a first embodiment of the application device according to the invention;
• Figures 4A-4C illustrate three variants of the embodiment of Figure 3;
• FIG. 5 illustrates another variant of the embodiment of FIG. 3;
• FIG. 6 illustrates a second embodiment of the application device according to the invention;
• FIG. 7 illustrates a third embodiment of the application device according to the invention;
• FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate a fourth embodiment of the application device according to the invention;
• Figures 9, 10, 11A-11B, and 12 illustrate a packaging assembly, of a makeup product in liquid form, using an application device according to the invention; and
• Figures 13A-13C, 14A-14B, 15, 16, and 17A-17B illustrate different embodiments of a packaging assembly, of a makeup product in the form of a solid or semi-solid block, and using an application device according to the invention.

FIG. 3, to which reference is now made, illustrates a first mode of realization of the application device 1 according to the invention. He understands mainly a handle 8 of substantially flat shape. The terminology "substantially flat" reflects the fact that it defines a thin structure, in relation to its other dimensions, and in particular in relation to its length. AT as an example, the handle 8 may have a slightly domed profile axially, like a tile, the profile of the blade substantially following the curvature of the handle. Alternatively, the handle 8 can be flexible, so to allow the user to give it a slightly domed shape when the application, in order to conform substantially to the curve of the eyelash arc. A of the ends of the handle carries an applicator member 50, in the form of a blade 6 of elastically deformable material. According to a first embodiment, the blade is made of elastomeric material, chosen from the group of elastomers of polyethylene, polyurethane, polyester, polyether block amides; polyvinyls; ter-polymers of ethylene, propylene and a diene (EPDM); block styrene-butadiene polymers (SEBS-SIS); of the elastomers of silicone, nitrile, butyl, etc. Each of the main faces 51, 52 of blade 6 has grooves 53 capable of retaining product, either after have been soaked in a tank containing such a product in liquid form, as will be seen in more detail with reference to FIGS. 9 to 12, either after having been applied to the free surface of a solid or semi-solid block, as we will see in more detail with reference to Figures 13A to 17B.

We define a first direction X, contained in a median plane of part 10 of the handle 8 and directed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of this handle, a second direction Y, perpendicular to the plane of the part 10 of the handle 8 and a third direction Z perpendicular to X and Y. Thus, the blade 6 is mounted on part 10 parallel to the median plane of the latter and oriented according to a direction substantially parallel to Z. In practice, the lateral edges of the applicator blade may be slightly divergent, or slightly convergent, relative to the Z axis. Within the meaning of the present application, the blade 6 may have a very slightly curved profile so as to further promote application on lashes. As an indication, the handle 8 has an average length, measured along Z, ranging from 1 cm to 6 cm, and preferably ranging from 2 cm to 5 cm. Its thickness mean along the Y axis varies between 2 mm and 7 mm, and preferably between 2 mm and 5 mm. Its average width along the X axis varies between 7.5 mm and 40 mm and from preferably between 10 mm and 35 mm. The blade 6 can be welded, glued to the handle, or made by molding, by bi-injection for example, or can be clicked on the handle 8. The end 10 of the handle 8, on which the blade has a cross section smaller than the section of the rest of the handle, and according to this embodiment a rib 54 adapted to removable mounting, by snap-fastening, on the neck of a container for example, containing a make-up product in liquid form, the internal surface of said neck having a groove capable of receiving said rib 54. Such an arrangement ensures a tight mounting of the application device on a product tank.

The width of the blade in direction X, near its free end is at least equal to a quarter of an arc of eyelashes and in particular greater than 0.75 cm, and preferably is between about 0.75 cm and 3 cm. The thickness of the applicator member, also measured at the free end of the blade and according to the direction Y, is at most equal to the thickness of the handle, in particular of the part 10, also measured in the direction Y. In practice, this thickness is chosen from 0.5 mm to 5 mm.

The average length of the blade 6, measured in the direction Z, is sufficient to allow keratin fibers, including eyelashes, to load along of one or other of the main faces which it comprises. This length is in general from 4 to 60 mm, preferably from 5 to 40 mm, and even more preferably from 10 to 30 mm. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the blade 6 has a length ranging from 15 to 20 mm.

The depth of the grooves along the Y axis, depends on the makeup that is wish to achieve. For light make-up, use small grooves depth. For a more loaded makeup, we will use more grooves great depth. Advantageously, it is possible to produce on the same blade grooves of different depths and / or different widths, alternating for example, so as to give more modularity to the makeup. Typically, the depth of the grooves can vary between 0.1 mm and 3 mm, and preferably between 0.5 mm and 2 mm. The free end of the applicator member 50 advantageously ends with teeth 11, so as to allow, if necessary if necessary, separation of the keratin fibers after application.

In the embodiment of FIG. 4A, the free end of the blade 6 is bevel cut. In the embodiment of FIG. 4B, the free end of the blade 6 has a concave shape. In that of FIG. 4C, it presents a convex shape.

As shown in Figure 5, the blade 6, can be, at least in part covered with a flocking 55. Such a flocking can have a double function. In Indeed, it constitutes, like any other relief of the groove type or other, a means capable of retaining product. Furthermore, such flocking confers a greater smoothness when applying the product. The flocking can be used alone or in combination with other means of product retention (grooves, ridges, holes, slots, etc.). The flocking may include a mixture of diameter, and / or length, and / or of different nature. In the mode of illustrated embodiment, only the teeth 11 are covered with such flocking. It is obvious that the entire surface of the blade 6 could be flocked. In the mode of embodiment illustrated in this figure, the teeth 11 are of different lengths.

In the embodiment of FIG. 6, the reliefs produced on one 51 and / or the other 52 of the main faces of the blade 6, are in the form of bosses 62, in the shape of diamonds. Advantageously, such bosses are distributed in staggered rows on the surface of the blade. The height of the bosses is chosen appropriately according to the desired load. Of the same so that for the grooves of Figures 3 to 5, one can provide bosses of different heights, distributed either randomly or in an organized fashion the surface of the blade 6. In the same way as for the embodiment of FIG. 6, the free end of the blade 6, ends with teeth 11 intended for the combing of keratin fibers, after application. Whatever not shown on Figure 6, a flocking can be arranged on all or part of the surface of the blade.

In the embodiment of Figure 7, the reliefs capable of retaining the product, consist of holes 63, passing through the thickness of the blade. These orifices 63 can be substantially identical over the entire surface of the blade. Alternatively, the orifices of different sections and / or of different shapes, and / or of different sizes are distributed over the surface of the blade. The number, size and shape of the holes is chosen according to the desired load of product, and the appearance of the desired makeup. Typically, orifices are produced whose average surface varies between 0.2 mm ² and 5 mm ² , and preferably between 0.5 mm ² and 3 mm ² .

In the embodiment of FIGS. 8A-8D, the applicator member 50 is produced at least in part, using at least one block of foam. We can use a open cell, semi open or closed cell foam. For example, we uses a foam chosen from the group of polyurethane foams, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyether, NBR (natural rubber), SBR (synthetic rubber), etc.

In the embodiment of FIG. 8A, the applicator 50 consists of two foam blocks 58, 59, between which a semi-sandwich core is sandwiched rigid 57. The two foam sheets may have characteristics identical or different. The central core can be made of any material appropriate. For example, a core of thermoplastic material, such as than polyethylene or polypropylene. This core allows to stiffen the structure of the applicator member 50, and is particularly advantageous when the application device is intended to be introduced into a set of packaging and application as shown in Figure 9, which set includes a wringing device, in the form of a sleeve. Rigidification produced by the central core facilitates the application of the product and also allows facilitate the introduction of the applicator into the sleeve. In this mode of realization, the core 57 is contained in its entirety inside the structure double layer of foam, a peripheral weld 65 being produced all around the blade 6 so as to join the two blocks of foam 58, 59 together. In the case of open cell or semi open cell foam, the product is retained in the foam cells and / or on the surface of the foam due the relatively rough surface finish of the foam. In the case of a closed cell foam, the product is retained on the surface of the foam in choosing its surface condition appropriately. Alternatively, we covers all or part of the surface of the blade with a flocking. Alternately still, other reliefs are carried out, by making streaks, grooves, a embossing. Such reliefs can be produced by cutting, by stamping, or by any other technique.

In the embodiment of FIG. 8B, the core 57 is of length greater than the length of the foam blocks 58, 59, so that part of the core emerges at the free end of the applicator 50. This emerging portion carries teeth 11, suitable for combing keratin fibers after application. Both foam blocks 58, and 59 are made integral with each other by means of weld lines 65 made laterally, on either side of the axis of the application device 1.

In the embodiment of FIG. 8C, the blade 6 consists of foam with closed cells. The surface of the blade is covered with a flocking 61, ensuring the retention of makeup product, and giving great softness to the application. The foam block is obtained by molding, or by assembling two foam plates 58, 59 by means of a peripheral weld line 65. The two foam sheets may have identical characteristics or different. By way of example, two blocks of foam having densities are used, and / or porosities, and / or different roughnesses so as to allow two makeup qualities depending on the face of the blade that is used.

In the embodiment of FIG. 8D, the blade 6 is produced by molding foam material. Embossing 64 is produced, either by stamping the foam, or, by means of weld lines, oriented parallel to axis A of the application device. The depth, pitch, and configuration of the embossing are chosen according to the desired appearance of the makeup.

With an application device, as described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 8D, the mascara is applied to the eyelashes in an extremely simple way, the gesture to smooth the eyelashes from bottom to top, from the base of the eyelashes to their ends, one of the faces 51 of the blade 6 tangent to the eyelashes 2. Such an application is shown in Figure 2.

The gesture is also much more precise than that of the prior art (cf. Fig. 1). Indeed, the flat handle and the particular configuration of this applicator allow on the one hand, to hold it easily during use, and on the other hand, to make a more calculated make-up, in front of the eyelashes, thanks to a larger gesture and more free. Such an applicator allows the user to truly support the blade 6 along the lashes and load them very precisely. Finally, the user can finish their gesture by tilting the applicator so as to bring the teeth 11 perpendicular to the eyelashes. It can thus perfectly separate and bend these thanks to the extreme tip of the teeth, and / or thanks to the use of an auxiliary separation device which will be described in more detail by the following . Furthermore, such an application device is very simple to produce. The handle may for example be molded plastic, wood or any other material usually used in the manufacture of applicators.

Referring to Figures 9 to 12, we will now describe the use of a application device 1 according to the invention, for the application of a makeup packaged in liquid form.

According to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9, the packaging assembly according to the invention referenced 100 as a whole essentially comprises a applicator 50 and a reservoir 5 for mascara 60. This assembly, unlike those of the state of the art, is extra-flat. The applicator 50 is provided with a flat handle 8 and an extra-flat blade 6 directly attached to this handle, parallel to the plane of the latter. In the illustrated embodiment, the blade is made of elastomeric material, and comprises a succession of grooves 53, oriented along the packaging axis. The blade ends with teeth 11, capable of combing the eyelashes after applying the product. The length of the blade along the axis of the packaging is substantially equal to the height of the reservoir 5, up to the free end 24 of the wiper 19.

The handle 8 is mounted on a cover 15 which acts as a cover and which is able to be slammed (groove 2-bead 4) on the reservoir 5. This reservoir 5 comprises a neck 17, the internal wall 29 of which is provided with a wringer 19, one end of which 22, located opposite the cover 15, is fixed to this neck 17. In another form of embodiment of the invention, this end 22 can bear on the neck 17 of the reservoir 5. The handle 8 comprises, at the end 22 of the wiper, a sealing system. This can be a seal 21, as shown in this figure, or a washer which rests on a collar. The wringer 19 comprises, opposite its fixed end 22, a free end 24 in which an opening 80 of oblong shape or in the form of a flattened ellipse is provided, and the largest dimension of which is oriented in the first direction defined above, so as to wring the blade 6 along its axis when removing the applicator. After spinning, only the product contained between the tops of the grooves, or other reliefs, remains on the applicator 50. The wiper may include, at its end 24, another sealing system which can be used alone or together with the sealing system 21 of the handle. He can also have reliefs 31 on its internal wall 23 in order to avoid the phenomenon of "pistoning" when removing the applicator. The particular configuration of the blade and the wringer prevents the unpleasant suction noise and the projection of product, observed on known packaging. The wringer can be in rigid or semi-rigid material, this material preferably being chosen from elastomers, foams, or thermoplastic materials.

The reservoir 5 can be a tube made of flexible material. The user can then adjust spinning by simple pressure on the tank, at the wiper. This can be obtained by one or more longitudinal slots 27 cut on the wringer, along the longitudinal axis of the blade.

In the embodiment of this FIG. 9, the packaging assembly is closed and the opening 80 of the wiper is located opposite the fixed end 26 of the blade. It is possible to position this opening 80 opposite the handle 8, as shown in Figure 12. Part of the handle 8 then plunges into the tank 5. In this case, the wringer must be shaped according to the shape of the handle to ensure, during the withdrawal of the applicator, the wringing of the handle and of the blade 6, always in the longitudinal direction of the blade. The blade has in this case a thickness substantially equal to that of the handle.

Concretely, when the user withdraws the applicator 50 from the reservoir 5, it produces a spinning of the blade at the opening 80 of the end 24 of the wringer 19. This wringing, taking place parallel to the longitudinal axis of the blade, do not shear the mascara formula. At the end of extraction of the applicator, the user tilts this applicator slightly, and the free end of the blade is automatically wrung out by rubbing the teeth along the inner wall of the wringer or at the edge of the wringer opening. To facilitate extraction, a part of the handle can be flexible. Such a packaging set allows therefore to use compositions generally sensitive to the phenomenon of shear and opens the door to new formulations of mascara.

In Figure 10 is shown in section in more detail the wiper 19 provided with its oblong opening 80, suitable for the conforming applicator to the invention. Such a wringer can be used to obtain a load of mascara important.

The wiper can be provided with reliefs on its opening 80. In particular, it can be provided with serrations 30a, as shown in FIG. 11A. In an other embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 11B, the wringer can be flocked. Its internal wall is then provided with small particles 30b due to flocking. Such wringers are used to obtain a light load on the blade 6 and therefore keratin fibers.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the mascara can be contained in a flexible pocket 20, shown in FIG. 12, and comprising an opening 25. The opening 25 has a section equal to the internal section of the neck 17 of the reservoir, the edge of this opening 25 being taken between the internal wall 29 of the neck 17 and the end 22 of the wiper 19. The end 24 of the wiper 19 is located inside the internal flexible pocket 20. The dotted lines represent the position of the flexible bag 20 when the applicator has started to be withdrawn. The walls 10 of the flexible bag, as a result of a vacuum, are then sucked and stick along the blade 6: it is therefore loaded with mascara, the latter being spread over the blade 6 by the internal walls 10 of the flexible bag 20. This flexible pocket also prevents, when removing the applicator, the accumulation of product in the vicinity of the wringer due to the piston effect observed on the known packaging assemblies. It thus prevents fouling of the wiper.

Such a mascara packaging set is very simple to produce: it can be made of any material usually used for the manufacture of cosmetic accessories.

Since the applicator may not include a metallic central core, the assembly of packaging object of the invention can be achieved only in materials organic, and in particular only plastics, and therefore be fully recyclable.

In the following section, we will now describe the use of a device of application according to the invention, for the application of a makeup product, in particular a mascara, conditioned in solid or semi-solid form inside of a case. The packaging and application unit 100 illustrated in FIGS. 13A-13C is of substantially elongated shape comprising a body 104 and an application device 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the device application 1, is mounted so that, in the closed position of the housing 100, the sleeve 8 or at least in part, outside the enclosed volume delimited by the body 104 of the housing. The handle 8 has on at least one of its faces, a depression 101, forming a finger-grip. Its free end carries a comb 114, molded with the handle 8. As shown in FIG. 13B, the body of the packaging and application unit 100 is composed of a bottom 105, mounted like a drawer, sliding inside a part 106 forming a cover. By exerting traction on the handle 8, it causes the opening of the case, thus allowing access to the block of solid or semi-solid product 107. The bottom 105 forms a receptacle having two compartments 108, 109, isolated by a wall 110. The first compartment 108 contains a block 107 of product, in the form of "bread" or "cake". Alternatively, the semi solid block consists of a block of open or semi-open cell foam, impregnated of the product in fluid form. For example, a foam of polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, epoxy resin, or polystyrene. The foam block may or may not be covered with a screen.

Advantageously, the product is a mascara for application to the eyelashes. The product can be poured or compacted inside compartment 108, appropriate rib-type means, or other reliefs which may be provided for the attachment of the product to the bottom of compartment 108. Alternatively, the block 107 can be mounted directly in solid form inside the compartment. For example, it can be glued or force fitted inside the compartment 107.

The second compartment 109 is intended to receive the applicator member 50. The applicator member comprises a blade 6 which can be in accordance with what has been described with reference to Figures 2 to 8D. Such an arrangement does not require therefore no further description.

The blade 6 is carried by the free end 10 of the handle 8. The handle 8 has a part 151, which as shown in FIG. 13A, is located outside the case when the latter is in the closed position. At the interface between portion 10 and the portion 151, are arranged head to tail, two grooves 102, 103, aligned along an axis perpendicular to the axis A of the application device 1. The grooves 102 and 103, are U-shaped, and have their respective bottoms located opposite one of the other. These grooves 102, 103 are arranged so as to fit into edge portions 111 and 112 of the bottom 105 of the housing (FIG. 13C). Portions of edges 111 and 112 are separated by a recess 113 capable of receiving the part of the handle situated between the respective bottoms of the two grooves 102, 103. Thus, in the mounted position shown in FIG. 13B, the blade 6 rests substantially flat in the bottom of compartment 109. The end 10 of the handle 8 has a cross section slightly smaller than the internal section of the cover 106, and is also arranged inside compartment 109. The edges 111, and 112 of the front part of compartment 109 are inserted in the grooves 102 and 103, thus axially immobilizing the application device 1 in The box. The part 151 of the handle 8 is outside the compartment 109. The application device 1 is lowered into the receptacle 109 by a movement in a plane parallel to itself. As it appears better in FIG. 13A, in closed position, the part of the handle 8 adjacent to the body 104, outside the case, is of cross section substantially identical to the section external transverse of the cover 106, so that the part 151 of the handle 8 either in the extension of the body 104.

The end of the handle 8, opposite the end 10 advantageously forms a comb 114, which is used, after application of the mascara by means of the organ applicator 50, to separate the eyelashes which could stick together when the application of the product. This comb 114 advantageously forms a single piece with the handle 8. For example, the handle, as well as the whole case, is made by molding of thermoplastic materials, such as polyethylenes, polypropylenes, polyvinyl chlorides, polystyrenes, etc. As an example again, the handle is made of a material elastomeric, so as to give it a certain flexibility. At least one of large faces of the handle 8 has a depression 101, so as to favor gripping the application device between the thumb and forefinger.

Figures 14A and 14B illustrate the removal of the product by means of the device application. As it appears clearly in figure 14A, after having dissolved the product on the surface (using saliva for example), the product is removed, means of the applicator member 50, by tilting the application device 1 of so as to put the blade 6 over a substantial part of its length in contact of the product, and by moving the applicator on the free surface 150 of the "cake". So the blade 6 is mainly loaded over its length, unlike applicators conventional type of that shown in Figure 1, which are loaded mainly on the tips of the hair. Applying mascara to eyelashes is carried out in the manner indicated in FIG. 2, by smoothing the keratin fibers, and in particular the eyelashes, over their entire length, from their base to their end, one of the faces of the blade 6 tangent to the eyelashes. After applying the product on the eyelashes, optionally the application device 1 is turned over, and the eyelashes by means of the comb 114, in order to separate the hairs which could have bonded between them when applying.

FIG. 14B illustrate a sectional view of the block 107 of product. In this mode embodiment, the bottom 115 of compartment 108 is curved, which gives the block 107 product the same curved profile. Such a configuration allows better use of the product, and makes it possible to withdraw substantially all of the product in the compartment, while authorizing a loading of the blade, on substantially its entire width, and this over a substantial part of its length. In other words, due to the multi-deformable structure direction of the blade, and of the sampling mode, that is, by putting the blade substantially flat on the surface of the cake, we can give the surface free from the "cake", any profile, in particular, concave or convex. If the block semi solid consists of a block of foam, the curved shape can be obtained by compressing the foam block on its periphery, using a frame mounted on compartment 108.

The embodiment of FIG. 15 is a variant of the embodiment of the Figures 13A to 13C. According to this variant, the cover 106 is articulated on the bottom 105 around a hinge axis B oriented perpendicular to the axis longitudinal of the housing 100. The articulation is carried out for example, by means of a film hinge 116. A mirror 117 is mounted on the internal surface of the cover. Such a mirror can be mounted by gluing, welding, snapping, or gluing. The application device 1 is in accordance with that of the previous embodiment.

In the embodiment of FIG. 16, the cover 106 is articulated on the bottom 105, by means of a hinge axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the housing. The cover is arranged so as to cover only compartment 108. The compartment 109 in which the blade 6 is arranged forms a case parallelepipedal of cross section substantially identical to that of the rest of the housing in the closed position. The case is preferably closed at its end adjacent to compartment 108. It is open at its other end so as to allow the insertion of the applicator member 50. To this end, the end 10 of the handle 8 carrying the blade 6, is of external section slightly less than the internal cross section of compartment 109, so that it can slide in said case. Ribs 118, provided on one and / or the other of the faces part 10, cooperate by snap-fastening with grooves 119, formed on the internal surface of the case so as to immobilize the application device in the assembly thus produced. The rest of the application device conforms to what has been described with reference to the others embodiments. In the mounted position, the edge 120 of the handle 8, adjacent to the portion of smaller section 10, abuts against the corresponding edge of the compartment 109.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 17A and 17B, the application device 1 differs from that of the previous embodiments, in that the part end 10, carrying the applicator member 50 is articulated relative to the rest 151 of the handle 8. The articulation is, according to an advantageous embodiment, consisting of a film hinge 121 in the median plane of the application device 1, and oriented perpendicular to the axis A of the application device 1. This characteristic allows an inclination of the applicator member 50, relative to the axis of the handle, which improves the body language. This allows in particular, to improve the dosage of the product on the applicator member, and to facilitate applying the product to the eyelashes, thereby giving the application greater comfort and greater precision. Still other means can be used to achieve such a joint. By way of example, the articulation is carried out at by means of an angle iron (one part is articulated on a cylinder carried by the other part). Alternatively, the handle is made of an elastomeric material of so as to give it such flexibility, which is favorable to direct debits and the application of the product.

As illustrated in FIG. 17B, the cover 106 is hinged on the bottom 105 around a hinge pin B located opposite the application device 1. By closing the cover 106 on the bottom 105, the free edge 122 of the cover 106, comes in support on the film hinge 121, the applicator member 50 being disposed inside compartment 109, and isolated from product 107 by wall 110. Edge 123 of part 151 of the handle 8, located outside the housing 100 is substantially in stop, on the one hand against the free edge 122 of the cover 106, and on the other hand against an edge portion 124 formed by the bottom 105. Thus mounted, the device application is immobilized, both axially and in the median plane it defines. The general shape of the assembly thus produced is substantially identical to that of the embodiments described with reference to the others FIGS.

According to another characteristic of the invention, not shown, the device application may include a second applicator member, for example at the place of the comb, or placed inside the handle, head to tail relative to the first. Alternatively, the handle is removable relative to the blade, which selectively authorizes the use of one or other of the blades for the application and / or combing keratin fibers. The second blade can be contained either inside the handle or inside a second compartment provided in The box. This second applicator member may include different reliefs, or have been the subject of a treatment different from that of the first applicator member, in order to bring even more modularity to makeup. As a variant again, the second applicator member is a "liner".

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.

Claims (38)

1. Device (1) for applying a make-up product for keratinous fibres; in particular the eyelashes, comprising a handle (8) of substantially flat profile, at least a first end (10) of which bears an applicator member (50) with a free end, said applicator member consisting of a blade (6) defining a unitary structure, which is elastically deformable in several directions and is arranged substantially parallel to a plane of the handle, said blade (6) having two main faces (51, 52), the surface of at least one of the faces having reliefs (53, 55, 61, 62, 63, 64) able to retain product after a substantial part of said surface has been brought into contact with the product, the product being released by bringing said substantial part into contact with the keratinous fibres, along the axis of said fibres, the width of said free end, measured in a first direction (X) parallel to said plane, being at least equal to one quarter of the average width of an arc of eyelashes, the device comprising means able to separate the keratinous fibres.
2. Application device according to Claim 1, characterized in that said width is between 0.75 cm and 3 cm.
3. Application device according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the thickness of the free end of the applicator member (50) is at most equal to the thickness of said first end (10) of the handle (8), these thicknesses being measured in a direction (Y) perpendicular to said plane.
4. Application device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the length of said blade (6), in a third direction (Z) perpendicular to the first and second directions, is between 10 mm and 60 mm.
5. Application device according to Claim 4, characterized in that said length is between 10 mm and 30 mm, and preferably between 15 mm and 20 mm.
6. Device according to any one of the preceding claims; characterized in that the hardness of said elastically deformable material is between 10 Shore A and 90 Shore D, and preferably between 30 Shore A and 60 Shore D.
7. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said applicator member (50) consists of an elastomeric material chosen from the group of polyethylene, polyurethane or polyester elastomers, polyether-block-amides; polyvinyls; ethylene-propylenediene terpolymers (EPDM); styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymers (SEBS-SIS); and silicons, nitrile, butyl, etc. elastomers.
8. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the means that are able to separate the keratinous fibres after application are formed at the free end of the blade (6), particularly in the form of teeth (11).
9. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that said applicator member (50) consists of at least one open-cell, semi-open-cell or closed-cell foam block (58, 59).
10. Device according to Claim 9, characterized in that said foam is a polyurethane, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyether, NBR (natural rubber), SBR (synthetic rubber), etc. foam.
11. Device according to Claim 9 or 10, characterized in that said applicator member (50) comprises an elastically deformable core (57) sandwiched between two foam blocks (58, 59).
12. Device according to Claim 11, characterized in that the length of the elastically deformable core (57), in the direction (Z), is greater than the length of the foam blocks (58, 59) between which it is sandwiched, said core (57) having, near the free end of the applicator member, teeth (11) able to separate the keratinous fibres after application.
13. Device according to any one of Claims 9 to 12, characterized in that the reliefs consist of embossing (64), oriented in the direction (Z), said embossing being obtained by drawing the foam, or by means of longitudinal welds.
14. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 12, characterized in that said reliefs consist of fluting (53), striations, holes (63) passing through at least part of the thickness of the blade, flocking (55, 61), bosses (62) in the form of diamonds, grooves, craters, etc.
15. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said applicator member comprises flocking (55, 61) over at least part of at least one of its faces (51, 52).
16. Device according to Claim 15, characterized in that the flocking (55, 61) comprises a mixture of hairs of different diameters, and/or different types, and/or different lengths, and/or different hardnesses.
17. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said free end of the applicator member (50) is bevelled, concave or convex (Figures 4A-4C).
18. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the means (114) for separating the keratinous fibres after application are formed at the end of the handle that is opposite said first end (10).
19. Device according to Claim 18, characterized in that said means comprise a comb (114).
20. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the applicator member (50) is mounted on the first end (10) of the handle (8) by adhesive bonding, or is made as one piece with the handle by two-shot injection moulding.
21. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the profile of the handle (8) is slightly domed axially, like a tile, the blade (6) being arranged along a curve that is substantially identical to the curve of the handle (8).
22. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handle (8) comprises two parts (10, 151) articulated about an axis (121) parallel to said first direction.
23. Device according to Claim 22, characterized in that the axis of articulation consists of a film hinge (121) or an angled piece.
24. Assembly for packaging and applying a make-up product for keratinous fibres, in particular the eyelashes, which comprises a reservoir (5) containing said product in liquid form (60), said reservoir having a wiping device (19), said reservoir being closed removably by an application device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims.
25. Packaging and application assembly according to Claim 24, characterized in that the wiping device (19) consists of a sleeve whose cross section is adapted to the cross section of the applicator member (50), so as to wipe it in the direction of its longitudinal axis.
26. Packaging and application assembly according to Claim 25, characterized in that said sleeve has an internal surface which is at least partially covered with flocking (30b).
27. Packaging and application assembly according to Claim 25 or 26, characterized in that said sleeve has reliefs (30a) over at least part of its internal surface.
28. Packaging and application assembly according to any one of Claims 24 to 27, characterized in that the wiper (19) has at least one longitudinal slot (27).
29. Packaging and application assembly according to any one of Claims 24 to 28, characterized in that the wiping device (19) is made of foam, elastomer, plastic or a thermoplastic material.
30. Packaging and application assembly according to any one of Claims 24 to 29, characterized in that the liquid product (60), and the wiping device (19), are contained inside a flexible pocket (20), and when the applicator member (50) is withdrawn for the purposes of application, this causes a pressure reduction inside the pocket (20), said pressure reduction pressing the internal walls of the pocket against the faces (51, 52) of the applicator member (50), so as to spread the liquid product over said faces.
31. Assembly (100) for packaging and applying a make-up product for keratinous fibres; in particular the eyelashes, which comprises: a) a body (104) with a base (105), in which is placed a solid or semi-solid block (107) of said product, having a free surface (150), and a cover (106) for removably covering said base (105); and b) an application device (1) according to any one of Claims 1 to 21, the product being removed by the blade (6) being brought into contact, over a substantial part of its length, with the free surface (150) of the block of product.
32. Packaging and application assembly according to Claim 31, characterized in that, when the cover (106) is in the closed position over the base (105), the handle (8) is located, at least partly (151), outside a substantially closed volume, formed when the cover (106) is in the closed position over the base (105).
33. Packaging and application assembly according to Claim 32, characterized in that the cover (106) is mounted so as to slide over the base (105), the handle (8) serving as an actuating member for opening the assembly and allowing access to the block of product (107).
34. Packaging and application assembly according to Claim 31 or 32, characterized in that the cover (106) is articulated on the base (105).
35. Packaging and application assembly according to any one of Claims 31 to 34, characterized in that the handle (8) is obtained by moulding an elastomeric or thermoplastic material.
36. Packaging and application assembly according to any one of Claims 31 to 35, characterized in that the handle (8) comprises two parts (10, 151) articulated about an axis (121) parallel to said first direction, the articulation (121) being contained, when the cover (106) is in the closed position over the base (105), inside the assembly, so as to immobilize the handle (8) with respect to said plane.
37. Packaging and application assembly according to any one of Claims 29 to 36, characterized in that the make-up product is inserted into the base by compacting, by hot or cold casting, or directly in the form of a block (107).
38. Packaging and application assembly according to any one of Claims 29 to 36, characterized in that said block consists of a block of open-cell or semi-open-cell foam impregnated with said product in fluid form.

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