EP1070466B1 - Device for storing and applying a product to eyeylashes or eyebrows - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a device for packaging and applying a product to the eyelashes or the eyebrows, this device being of the type comprising a container for containing the product and an applicator comprising an applicator element comprising at least one row of teeth. US 474,377 describes a device according to the preamble of claim 1.

Packaging and application devices are known in which the applicator element is in the form of a comb and comprises a row of teeth defining between them grooves which are loaded with product when the applicator element is extracted from the container. .

To allow constituting product reserves providing the applicator sufficient autonomy, the teeth are relatively spaced, the spacing between two successive teeth being significantly greater than the diameter of an eyelash.

This has the disadvantage that the eyelashes are weakly gripped by the applicator element and these known devices do not allow to smooth the product deposited on the surface of the eyelashes nor to lengthen them satisfactorily.

We know by the request DE-A-25 59 273 a brush having rows of bristles connecting to a base, the bristles of each row having relatively spaced bases, located alternately on either side of a central line.

We know by the request EP-A-0 474 934 a brush having several rows of radially oriented elements, said rows being axially offset relative to each other.

The object of the present invention is to propose a new device for packaging and applying a product on the eyelashes or the eyebrows that is capable of satisfactorily gripping the eyelashes, while making it possible to constitute relatively large product reserves. .

It achieves this by the fact that the applicator element comprises at least one row of teeth arranged alternately on both sides, turned in substantially opposite directions, of a core.

In an exemplary implementation of the invention, the soul can be used in some kind of framework and keep the teeth on the application element.

The application element according to the invention can make it possible to constitute product reserves between the teeth while allowing the product deposited on the eyelashes to be smoothed and to separate and / or lengthen the latter.

By varying the geometrical configuration of the teeth, in particular their spacing, it is easy to modify the amount of product deposited on the applicator element as well as the characteristics of the applicator element in terms of product smoothing and separation of the products. lashes.

The geometric configuration of the teeth, and in particular the spacing between the consecutive teeth, also allows any fibers contained in the product to align substantially, so as to become substantially parallel to the eyelashes when the product is applied.

A gap can be formed between the upper parts of at least two consecutive teeth.

This gap can be arranged to prevent the eyelashes from reaching the soul.

The bottom of such an interstice may be at a distance from the core greater than or equal to 0.2 mm, for example.

Alternatively, the gap may be arranged to allow the eyelashes to reach the core.

Preferably, the gap has the shape of an indentation and in a particular embodiment, the upper parts of the teeth form between them notches.

Such indentations make it possible to grip the eyelashes and to lengthen or curl them during the application of the product.

At least two consecutive teeth may have portions, including substantially joined bases.

The phrase "substantially joined" should be understood to mean that the portions in question of the consecutive teeth do not necessarily overlap when viewed from one side of the application member, but are sufficiently close to one another. other to prevent the free movement of an inserted eyelash between the consecutive teeth in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the applicator element.

In other words, when the bases are substantially contiguous, the eyelash can not pass freely between the bases without being gripped, when the applicator element is brought into contact with the eyelashes substantially transversely to the latter.

The substantially contiguous portions, especially the bases, may be sufficiently close together to prevent the passage of an eyelash through them.

In a particular embodiment, the teeth extend over substantially the entire height of the applicator element.

This is made possible by the fact that the teeth are made on both sides of a soul.

In a particular embodiment, the envelope of the applicator element is a cylindrical surface whose directrix is a curve formed for example by the union of a semicircle at the bottom and an inverted V at the top ( that is to say, a form of water droplet).

The cross section of the core may be less than about half of the total cross-section of the application member.

In a particular embodiment, the device comprises first and second consecutive teeth having bases arranged such that a portion of the base of the first tooth has the same axial position along the application element as a portion. from the base of the second tooth.

According to the invention, an upper surface of the core is located between a free end of each tooth and a lower end of each tooth.

Still in a particular embodiment, at least one tooth has a depth that is greater than its width, the depth being measured perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the core and the width being measured parallel to the longitudinal axis of the core. The teeth then have good mechanical strength vis-à-vis the forces exerted by the eyelashes during application.

It is thus possible to use the application element to apply a product that can harden relatively quickly. The ratio b / e is for example greater than or equal to 1.2, or even greater than or equal to about 1, 4, b being the depth of the base of a tooth and e its width.

The teeth may have a depth that varies according to the axial positioning along the axis of the base.

The teeth can thus have an increasing depth, decreasing, increasing then decreasing or vice versa, from front to rear.

The applicator element can be produced at a relatively low cost, by molding, in particular plastic material.

The teeth are advantageously made by molding in one piece with the core, preferably plastic.

The applicator element may be constituted by an insert on the rod of the applicator.

In particular, the applicator element can be removably attached to the applicator rod.

The applicator element may alternatively be made by molding, in particular of plastic, in one piece with the rod of the applicator.

The applicator element can be made by molding plastics material in one piece with the applicator rod and with a sealing member intended to ensure a tight closure of the container in the absence of use, this sealing member may have a shaped surface to fit tightly in a neck of the container.

The consecutive teeth are advantageously arranged alternately on either side of a geometric separation surface, which may be a plane, advantageously a median plane for the soul.

This geometric separation surface is advantageously a joint plane for molding the application element.

The geometric separation surface may be a cylindrical surface whose director is a curve or a broken line. The geometric surface separation can be non-planar, for example twisted.

The geometric separation surface can thus be a helical surface, for example.

The teeth may have an upper portion that extends without contact with the adjacent teeth over a relatively small height from their top, for example to a height less than half of their total height.

The ratio b / c is, for example, greater than or equal to 1.2, or even greater than or equal to 1.4, where b is the depth of the base of a tooth and c is the interval separating two successive teeth staggered from the same side of said geometric separation surface.

The ratio of the spacing between adjacent teeth on the same side of the core to the width of a tooth, both being measured at the teeth above the upper surface of the core (preferably half -length of the teeth) is for example between 0.2 and 2 approximately.

The applicator element may be made of a softer plastic material than that used to manufacture the applicator rod, for example an elastomer, which provides greater comfort in use.

Alternatively, the rod of the applicator may be made of a plastic material less hard than that used to achieve the application element. It is thus possible to use, for manufacturing reasons for example, a relatively hard material for producing the application element and to compensate for the hardness of the application element at the time of application by the flexibility of the rod.

The application element may comprise two parts made with a film hinge and assembled against each other.

The teeth may have front and / or rear faces perpendicular to the axis of the core or forming an acute or obtuse angle therewith.

The application element may comprise a first series of teeth whose front and / or rear faces are inclined relative to the axis of the core and a second series of teeth whose front and / or rear faces are inclined. a different way from that of the teeth of the first series with respect to the axis of the soul, the teeth of the first series and those of the second series being arranged alternately at least partially on either side of a geometric separation surface.

The teeth may have an upper portion in the same axis as their base.

The teeth may comprise upper portions respectively oriented towards the front and towards the rear.

Two consecutive teeth may have free ends oriented towards each other when the application element is observed along its longitudinal axis.

Two consecutive teeth may also have free ends oriented away from each other when the application element is observed along its longitudinal axis.

In a particular embodiment, when the application element is observed in its axis, two consecutive teeth have free ends that diverge. Alternatively, when the applicator element is observed in its axis, two consecutive teeth have converging free ends. In a further variant, when the applicator element is observed in its axis, two consecutive teeth have free ends that intersect or are substantially parallel. Thus, the free ends can point in the same direction. When the applicator element is observed in its axis, at least three consecutive teeth may have free ends that are aligned.

Two adjacent teeth may overlap when the application element is observed along its longitudinal axis.

The applicator element may comprise a first series of teeth located on one side of a geometric separation surface and a second series of teeth located on the other side of this geometric separation surface, alternating with the teeth of the first series, the teeth of the first series having their front face, respectively rear, concave or convex forward respectively rearward, and the teeth of the second series having their front face respectively rear, concave or convex forward or backward respectively.

The application element may further comprise a first series of teeth located on one side of a geometric separation surface and a second series of teeth located on the other side of this geometric separation surface, alternating with the teeth. of the first series, the teeth of the first series having their front face, respectively rear, concave or convex forward, respectively rearward, and the teeth of the second series having their rear face, respectively before, plane.

The height of the teeth may be between 0.5 and 15 mm, preferably between 7 and 13 mm.

The height of the teeth can be variable.

The application element may have only one row of teeth and be in the form of a comb.

The application element may also include several rows of teeth and constitute a brush.

The rows of teeth may extend substantially in the extension of one side of the base in the case of a polygonal section or the bases may be connected substantially tangentially to the base in the case of a non-polygonal section, for example elliptical or circular. Such an application element makes it easier to use the base to apply the product and the contact of the eyelashes with the teeth can be done gradually. This application element makes it possible to curl the eyelashes.

The core may have a height or thickness varying according to the axial positioning on the application element.

At least one tooth may comprise a hollow portion.

This hollow portion may extend along at least a portion of the length of the tooth.

At least one face of the tooth may have an opening on said hollow portion.

At least one tooth can be flocked.

The application member may have two opposite ends, with one end connected to a distal end portion of the shaft.

The device may comprise a plurality of cores and a plurality of rows of consecutive teeth, these consecutive teeth being arranged alternately on opposite sides of the corresponding core.

The device may further comprise a base on which the teeth and the core are arranged.

The teeth can be spread laterally from the soul.

The application element may comprise a longitudinal axis substantially parallel to the axis of the rod.

The applicator element may also, alternatively, have a longitudinal axis at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the rod.

The applicator element may in particular have a longitudinal axis extending substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the rod.

The stem may include a connector at a distal end portion, which connector is arranged to allow attachment of the applicator member to the shaft.

The applicator member may have two ends and a portion between the two ends that is attached to a distal end portion of the shaft.

The device may comprise at least one notch located between two adjacent teeth on the same side of the core, this notch extending under an upper surface of the core. This notch can receive product and also serve the application of the product.

The container may be arranged to receive the application element.

Alternatively, the container may be a tube, the product being deposited on the applicator member by compressing the tube.

The product can still be in the form of a solid bread.

When the container is arranged to receive the applicator element, it is preferably provided with a dewatering member, preferably deformable and more preferably constituted by a block of foam or an elastomeric lip.

The product may be mascara.

In a particular embodiment, the container has an opening for the passage of at least a portion of the applicator element into the container and the applicator comprises a cap at the other end of the rod for sealing container.

The product may contain fibers.

Another subject of the invention is an applicator for applying product on the eyelashes comprising a rod and an applicator element disposed at one end of the rod, the applicator element comprising a medial core having two substantially opposite faces and a plurality of teeth alternately disposed on the substantially opposite sides of the core and at least one notch between two adjacent teeth disposed on the same side of the core.

At least a portion of the notch may extend over the web.

A portion of the notch may also be defined by adjacent teeth.

In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of notches is made on one or both of the aforementioned substantially opposite faces.

The core may further include a series of ridges and depressions and the notch may substantially correspond to a recess.

The notch preferably has a shape substantially V, open towards an upper surface of the core. Alternatively, the V-shaped notch may be open to a lower surface of the core. The notch is preferably arranged so as to contain the product to be applied.

In a preferred embodiment, three consecutive teeth form at least a portion of a volume arranged to contain the product to be applied and the notch communicates with this volume, which can be further defined by a portion of the core.

The bases of the adjacent teeth may be connected to one another or may be separated from one another.

The subject of the invention is also an applicator for applying a product to the eyelashes, comprising a rod and an applicator element disposed at one end of the rod, the applicator element comprising a core having two substantially opposite faces, a plurality of teeth arranged alternately on the substantially opposite faces of the core and at least one volume defined by three consecutive teeth and a portion of the soul.

This volume is arranged to contain the product to be applied with the applicator element and at least part of this volume is open to allow the eyelashes to access the product contained therein.

In a preferred embodiment, the application element comprises a plurality of such volumes and consecutive volumes are alternately directed in opposite directions.

The applicator element may also comprise a notch made on one side of the core and this notch may be in fluid communication with the volume defined by the three consecutive teeth. The latter correspond to two teeth located on a first side of the soul and a tooth located on a second side of the soul. The volume is defined by a space between the teeth located on the first side of the soul. The tooth located on the second side of the core may be positioned along the core at a location between the positions of the two teeth located on the first side of the core, so that the volume extends towards the core. a longitudinal axis of the core between the two teeth located on the first side of the core and in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis between the tooth located on the second side and the two teeth located on the first side.

The invention further relates to an applicator comprising a rod and an applicator element disposed at one end of the rod. The applicator element comprises a core having portions of lateral faces turned in substantially opposite directions, extending in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the core. The applicator element further comprises a plurality of teeth arranged alternately on said substantially opposite lateral surface portions, such that at least a portion of each of the teeth disposed on one side of the core is located between minus a portion of a pair of corresponding teeth located on the other side of the core, when the applicator element is viewed from the side. The upper side the core is preferably disposed between a lower end and a free end of each tooth and the teeth cover at least a portion of the opposite side faces of the core.

The soul may have a curved longitudinal axis. The core may have either a substantially uniform cross section along its length or a cross section whose shape varies along its length. The teeth may be arranged in a row extending along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the core.

The invention further relates to an applicator for applying a product on the eyelashes comprising a rod and an applicator element disposed at one end of the rod. The applicator element comprises a core having faces turned in substantially opposite directions and a plurality of consecutive teeth arranged alternately on said faces, at substantially different locations depending on the length of the core. Preferably, at least a portion of each of the teeth disposed on one side of the core is disposed between at least a portion of a pair of corresponding teeth disposed on the other side of the core, when the application is observed from the side. The width of each tooth may be less than the space between two adjacent teeth on the same side of the core, the width and space being measured at a portion of the length of the tooth extending above the soul, preferably at mid-length of the teeth. A gap may be formed between the consecutive teeth when the applicator element is viewed from the side.

The invention also relates to a method for applying a product to the eyelashes, comprising the step of providing an applicator as defined above, to load the product on at least a portion of the teeth of the applicator and to bring at least a portion of the teeth in contact with the eyelashes, so that the product is deposited on the eyelashes. Product loading can be done by inserting the applicator into a container containing the product and removing the applicator from the container and removing excess product from the teeth.

Alternatively, product loading can be accomplished by dispensing the product from a container onto the teeth or by bringing the teeth into contact with a solid product loaf.

When the product is in the form of solid bread, the latter can be moistened or the teeth can be moistened.

In a particular implementation of the method according to the invention, an applicator element is fixed on the applicator rod, this applicator element being selected from among several application elements having different tooth configurations.

• la figure 1 est une vue schématique en coupe axiale d'un dispositif de conditionnement et d'application conforme à un premier exemple de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 1A est une coupe partielle représentant un organe d'essorage constitué par une lèvre en élastomère, conformément à une variante de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 2 représente en perspective, de manière schématique, l'élément d'application de la figure 1,
• la figure 3 représente en perspective, de manière schématique, une variante de réalisation de l'élément d'application,
• la figure 4 est une vue schématique de dessus de l'élément d'application de la figure 3,
• la figure 5 représente en perspective, de manière schématique, un élément d'application conforme à une variante de réalisation,
• la figure 6 représente en perspective, de manière schématique et partielle, un élément d'application conforme à une variante de réalisation,
• les figures 7 et 8 sont des coupes transversales représentant de manière schématique deux exemples de brosses conformes à l'invention,
• les figures 9 à 11 illustrent diverses configurations de dents,
• les figures 12 et 13 représentent deux éléments d'application ayant des configurations différentes,
• la figure 14 est une vue en perspective d'un exemple de mise en oeuvre de l'invention, dans lequel le produit à appliquer est déposé sur l'élément d'application à partir d'un tube flexible,
• la figure 15 est une vue en perspective d'un autre exemple de mise en oeuvre de l'invention, dans lequel le produit à appliquer se présente sous la forme d'un pain de produit ou d'une poudre,
• la figure 16 est une vue en perspective d'un applicateur conforme à une variante de mise en oeuvre de l'invention, dans lequel l'extrémité distale de l'élément d'application comporte une pointe effilée,
• la figure 17 est une vue en perspective d'un applicateur ayant un élément d'application dont l'axe longitudinal s'étend perpendiculairement à l'axe longitudinal de la tige de l'applicateur et dans lequel l'élément d'application peut être engagé dans un logement formé dans la partie d'extrémité distale de la tige de l'applicateur,
• la figure 17A est une vue à échelle agrandie, partielle et en perspective, représentant l'élément d'application avant son insertion dans le logement de la tige de l'applicateur,
• la figure 18 est une vue en perspective d'un applicateur dans lequel l'élément d'application peut être fixé de manière amovible sur l'extrémité distale de la tige, conformément à une variante de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 19 est une vue en perspective d'un applicateur similaire à celui représenté sur la figure 17, hormis le fait que l'élément d'application est réalisé d'un seul tenant avec la tige,
• la figure 20 est une vue partielle en perspective d'un applicateur dont l'âme et les dents sont disposées sur une embase d'un élément d'application, conformément à une variante de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 21 est une vue partielle en perspective d'un applicateur similaire à celui représenté sur la figure 20, les dents comportant un flocage,
• la figure 22 est une vue partielle en perspective d'un élément d'application dans lequel les dents sont disposées de manière à couvrir seulement une partie de la hauteur de l'âme, conformément à une mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 23 est une vue partielle en perspective d'un élément d'application dans lequel les dents sont disposées de manière à couvrir l'âme sur toute sa hauteur, conformément à une variante de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 24 est une vue partielle en perspective d'un élément d'application dans lequel les dents sont disposées de telle sorte qu'une extrémité des dents se situe dans la continuité de l'extrémité inférieure de l'âme, conformément à une autre variante de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 25 est une vue partielle en perspective d'un élément d'application dans lequel les dents sont disposées sur les côtés opposés d'une âme en forme de T, conformément à une variante de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 26 est une vue partielle en perspective d'un élément d'application dans lequel les dents et l'âme sont disposées sur une embase de l'élément d'application et les dents présentent une forme conique,
• la figure 27 est une vue partielle en perspective d'un d'applicateur similaire à celui représenté sur la figure 26, dans lequel les dents comportent des parties creuses,
• la figure 28 est une vue en perspective de trois dents consécutives de la figure 24 avec un cil accédant au produit contenu dans un volume formé entre les dents, conformément à un exemple de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 29 est une vue partielle, en perspective, d'un d'applicateur conforme à une variante de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 30 est une vue partielle en perspective d'un d'applicateur conforme à une autre variante de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 31 est une vue partielle en perspective d'un d'applicateur conforme à un autre exemple de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 32 est une vue partielle en perspective d'un d'applicateur comportant un élément d'application flexible, conformément à un exemple de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 33 est une vue partielle en perspective d'un d'applicateur conforme à une variante de mise en oeuvre de l'invention, et
• la figure 34 est une vue partielle en perspective d'un d'applicateur conforme à un autre exemple de mise en oeuvre de l'invention.

Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will emerge on reading the following detailed description of non-limiting examples of implementation of the invention and on examining the appended drawing, in which:

• the figure 1 is a diagrammatic view in axial section of a packaging device and application according to a first embodiment of the invention,
• the Figure 1A is a partial section showing a wiper member constituted by an elastomer lip, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 2 represents in perspective, schematically, the application element of the figure 1 ,
• the figure 3 represents in perspective, schematically, an alternative embodiment of the application element,
• the figure 4 is a schematic top view of the application element of the figure 3 ,
• the figure 5 represents in perspective, schematically, an application element according to an embodiment variant,
• the figure 6 represents in perspective, schematically and partially, an application element according to an embodiment variant,
• the Figures 7 and 8 are cross-sections schematically representing two examples of brushes according to the invention,
• the Figures 9 to 11 illustrate various configurations of teeth,
• the Figures 12 and 13 represent two application elements having different configurations,
• the figure 14 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention, wherein the product to be applied is deposited on the applicator element from a flexible tube,
• the figure 15 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention, in which the product to be applied is in the form of a product cake or a powder,
• the figure 16 is a perspective view of an applicator according to an alternative embodiment of the invention, wherein the distal end of the applicator element comprises a tapered tip,
• the figure 17 is a perspective view of an applicator having an applicator element whose longitudinal axis extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the applicator rod and wherein the applicator element can be engaged in a housing formed in the distal end portion of the applicator shaft,
• the Figure 17A is an enlarged view, partial and in perspective, showing the application element before insertion into the housing of the applicator rod,
• the figure 18 is a perspective view of an applicator in which the applicator element can be removably attached to the distal end of the stem, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 19 is a perspective view of an applicator similar to that shown on the figure 17 , except that the application element is made in one piece with the rod,
• the figure 20 is a partial perspective view of an applicator whose core and teeth are arranged on a base of an application element, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 21 is a partial perspective view of an applicator similar to that shown on the figure 20 , teeth having a flocking,
• the figure 22 is a partial perspective view of an application element in which the teeth are arranged to cover only a portion of the height of the core, in accordance with an implementation of the invention,
• the figure 23 is a partial perspective view of an application element in which the teeth are arranged so as to cover the soul over its entire height, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 24 is a partial perspective view of an application element in which the teeth are arranged so that one end of the teeth is in the continuity of the lower end of the core, according to another embodiment of implementation of the invention,
• the figure 25 is a partial perspective view of an applicator element in which the teeth are disposed on opposite sides of a T-shaped core, in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 26 is a partial perspective view of an application element in which the teeth and the core are arranged on a base of the application element and the teeth have a conical shape,
• the figure 27 is a partial perspective view of an applicator similar to that shown in FIG. figure 26 in which the teeth have hollow portions,
• the figure 28 is a perspective view of three consecutive teeth of the figure 24 with an eyelash accessing the product contained in a volume formed between the teeth, according to an embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 29 is a partial view, in perspective, of an applicator according to an alternative embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 30 is a partial perspective view of an applicator according to another variant embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 31 is a partial perspective view of an applicator according to another embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 32 is a partial perspective view of an applicator comprising a flexible application element, according to an exemplary implementation of the invention,
• the figure 33 is a partial perspective view of an applicator according to an alternative embodiment of the invention, and
• the figure 34 is a partial perspective view of an applicator according to another embodiment of the invention.

The device 10 for packaging and application represented on the figure 1 comprises a container 11 containing a supply of product P, for example a mascara of fluid to pasty consistency, and an applicator 12 comprising a rod 13 of axis X provided at one end with an application element 14 and at the other end of a gripping element 12a which also constitutes a closing cap of the container 11.

The device 10 preferably comprises, as shown, a sealing element 9 fixed to the gripping element 12 or the rod 13 for sealing the container 11.

When the sealing member 9 is attached to the rod, it can be made in one piece with the latter.

The container 11 preferably comprises, as shown, a wiper member 19 constituted in the example described by an open cell foam block, but this wiper member could alternatively be constituted by a flexible lip, flocked or not .

For example, there is shown on the Figure 1A the wiper member 19A in the form of a flexible lip made of an elastomeric material.

In each case, the wiper member is deformable so that it can substantially match the shape of the application element when the latter crosses the wiper member being removed from the container.

The application element 14 is constituted by a comb, which is located in the extension of the rod 13 of the applicator.

Thus, one end of the applicator element 14 is connected to a distal end portion of the rod 13 and the opposite end of the applicator element 14 is a free end.

Preferably, as shown, the rod 13 has over a portion of its length a smaller diameter section than that of the applicator element 14, so as not to compress the wiper member 19 at rest.

The application element 14 may be constituted as in the example described by an insert, fixed in a housing formed at the end of the rod 13 of the applicator.

Alternatively, the applicator element may be connected to the rod during molding, for example.

It has been shown separately on an enlarged scale on the figure 2 the application element 14.

This comprises a row of teeth 15 comprising a first series of teeth 15a and a second series of teeth 15b, respectively located on either side of a geometric separation surface S, perpendicular to the plane of the figure 1 .

The teeth 15a and 15b are arranged alternately on either side of a central core 16, Z axis.

The axis Z of the core 16 may be parallel to the axis X of the rod 13 or make an angle with the axis X. In particular, the axis Z of the core may even be perpendicular to the axis X of the rod 13, as will be explained later.

The teeth are connected to the core 16 so that their upper portion 27 is free.

The geometric separation surface S represented on the figure 1 is a median plane, parallel to the plane of the figure 2 .

The geometric separation surface S is preferably also a joint plane for molding the application element 14.

The applicator element 14 is provided at the front (that is to say, its distal end) of a rounded nose 17 to facilitate its entry into the container 11.

The application element 14 has at the rear (that is to say, its proximal end) a boss 18 for facilitating the passage of the wiper member 19 during removal of the applicator.

In the example described, the upper portions 27 of two consecutive teeth form between them a gap 20 when the comb is viewed from the side, in a direction perpendicular to the Z axis, as on the figure 2 .

The gap 20 may have about half the height of the teeth about a substantially constant width when the applicator element 14 is viewed from the side.

The gap 20 preferably extends to the core 16, and its width is large enough to allow the eyelashes to reach the core 16.

The difference between two successive teeth situated on one and the same side of the geometric separation surface S may be, as is the case in the example represented, greater than the width of a tooth, measured at about mid-height. of the application element 14, parallel to the axis Z.

Each tooth 15a extends substantially midway, when the applicator element 14 is viewed from the side, of two adjacent teeth 15b disposed on the opposite side of the core, and vice versa.

This arrangement allows three consecutive teeth, along the soul, to define a volume for containing the product intended to be applied, this volume being substantially open between two adjacent teeth located on the same side of the core and substantially closed by the tooth disposed on the other side of the soul between the two adjacent teeth mentioned above (preferably halfway).

In the example considered, the upper portions 27 of the teeth point substantially in the same direction.

The lower portions 22 of two successive teeth, located on the same side of the core 16, form between them and with the core 16 a cavity or groove 26 intended to contain the product in order to deposit it on the eyelashes.

The application element 14 is thus hollowed out in the lower part, between two teeth 15a or 15b.

The interstices 20 between two consecutive teeth are sufficiently narrow to allow the eyelashes to be grasped, separated, combed and smooth the deposited product on their surface.

It is understood that by adjusting the length of the teeth and the gap between the teeth located on the same side can easily act on the amount of product that the comb is loaded.

The spacing between the teeth of the same series of teeth 15a or 15b can thus be relatively large in favor of the amount produced which the comb is loaded without the comb losing any ability to grip the eyelashes, if one ensure that the gaps 20 formed by the upper portions 27 of the teeth remain sufficiently narrow, for example less than the average width of the upper portion 27 of a tooth.

It will be noted on examination of the figure 2 that in the example described the bases 31 of the teeth 15a or 15b widen to meet at the lower end 30 of the applicator element 14.

Thus, notches 26 are formed between two adjacent teeth on the same side of the core. These notches are arranged to contain product and can lead into the volume defined by three consecutive teeth and the core, allowing an eyelash to access a substantially larger amount of product disposed on the applicator element.

In general, the teeth made on either side of the median core may have upper portions having many configurations without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The upper parts of the teeth may, for example, be inclined alternately forwards and backwards, as illustrated very schematically on the figure 9 .

The upper parts of the teeth can still be directed to the others when the application element is viewed from the front as shown in figure 10 .

The upper parts of the teeth may cross each other when the application element is viewed from the front.

Alternatively, the upper portions of the teeth may move away from each other, as shown in FIG. figure 11 .

The upper portion of a tooth may comprise a substantial portion of the length of the tooth extending from its base or may be constituted only by the free end of the tooth, as shown in the drawings. Figures 9 to 11 .

The teeth can, when the application element is observed from the front, diverge gradually away from the median soul from which they leave.

The configuration of the teeth will be chosen according to the type of makeup desired and the nature of the product to be applied to the eyelashes.

The application element 40 represented on the figures 3 and 4 comprises a row of teeth 41a, 41b disposed respectively on substantially opposite faces of a central core 42.

The applicator element 40 is essentially comb-shaped, and when viewed from the side, the teeth 41a alternate with the teeth 41b along the axis Z of the core 42.

Thus, the teeth of the series 41a are disposed substantially between the teeth of the series 41b and vice versa when the applicator element 14 is viewed from the side.

Notches 46 having a V-shaped profile when the applicator element 40 is observed from above can be produced on the core 42 between two teeth 41a or 41b disposed on the same side of the core, as can be seen on the figure 4 .

Just like the notches 26 of the figure 2 , the notches 46 add to the volume formed by the core and three consecutive teeth, thus allowing the eyelashes to access a greater amount of product on the application element.

Preferably, the bottom of the notches is spaced at a distance of at least about 0.2 mm from an upper surface of the core 52.

The teeth 41a, 41b are preferably deeper than wide in this embodiment, the width e being measured parallel to the Z axis and the depth b perpendicular to the latter in the plane of the figure.

The spacing c between two successive teeth 41a or 41b is also greater than the width e.

Thanks to their relatively deep base, the teeth 41a, 41b are able to withstand a stress applied transversely to the Z axis, which allows to separate the eyelashes and smooth the deposited product on their surface, even when the product used would have partially hardened or would be relatively viscous.

In the example under consideration, the bases of the teeth 41a or 41b do not meet, unlike the embodiment of the figure 2 .

We have shown on the figure 5 an application element 50 essentially in the form of a comb, comprising a row of consecutive teeth 51a, 51b alternately made on each side of a median core 52.

Grooves 53 are formed between the teeth 51a, 51b located on the same side of the core 52.

Unlike the application elements represented on the Figures 2 and 3 the teeth 51a and 51b overlap when the applicator element is viewed from the side.

Only the upper portions of the tapered teeth do not overlap, creating interstices 54 between consecutive teeth 51a and 51b.

These interstices 54 are essentially in the form of indentations or V-grooves for gripping the eyelashes.

The bottom of these notches is at a distance from the soul 52, the eyelashes being thus prevented from reaching the soul 52.

It will be noted that in the example described, the free upper portions of the teeth represent only about one third of the total height of the applicator element.

A relatively large amount of product can accumulate between two teeth 51a or 51b, the eyelashes can easily be brought into use with contact of the product reserves thus formed to load product, the product deposited on the eyelashes being smoothed by the attachment of the eyelashes in the notches 54.

The teeth connecting to the core may have different geometries.

For example, there is shown on the figure 6 an essentially comb-shaped applicator element 60 comprising a first series of teeth 61a and a second series of teeth 61b alternating with those of the first series, the teeth 61a having their front face 62 concave towards the front, their rear face 63 convex towards the rear, the teeth 61b having their front face 64 convex towards the front and their rear face 65 substantially flat.

The upper parts of two consecutive teeth form notches 66 in which the eyelashes can engage during the application of the product, the edges of these notches converging on the approaching the core bearing the teeth, so that the eyelashes can be gripped by the application element.

In variants not shown, the front faces 62 of the teeth 61a may be convex towards the front, the rear faces 63 of the teeth 61a concave rearward, the front faces 64 of the teeth 61b concave forward or even planar, and the rear faces 65 concave or convex towards the rear.

Other geometrical configurations of teeth may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention, and in particular a series of consecutive teeth having different configurations may constitute a row.

The soul on which the teeth are connected is not necessarily rectilinear and can extend along a curved line or a broken line.

For example, there is shown on the figure 12 an alternative embodiment of the application element of the figure 4 wherein the soul extends substantially in a circular arc.

The geometric separation surface on either side of which the teeth extend is here a cylindrical surface, of director coincides with the axis of the soul and generatrix perpendicular to the plane of the figure 12 .

Alternatively, the core may be curved about a perpendicular axis to the geometric separation surface, such as the Y axis of the figure 1 .

An application element having a curved core is represented on the figure 13 .

The application element may comprise a single row of teeth and have the shape of a comb, as is the case of the embodiments which have just been described, or alternatively have several rows of teeth and constitute a brush.

By way of non-limiting example, there is shown on the figure 7 an applicator element 80 forming a brush, having a central core 81 of axis perpendicular to the plane of the figure 7 .

On this soul are arranged three rows of teeth 82, 83, 84.

Each row 82, 83 or 84 comprises a first series of teeth and a second series of teeth respectively formed on each side of a median core associated with this row.

Thus, the row 82 has teeth 82a, 82b made alternately on each side of a core secured to the central core 81.

The teeth 82a and 82b are located alternately on either side of a geometric separation surface S constituted by a radial plane.

It is the same for the other rows of teeth 83 and 84.

The teeth are thus oriented substantially radially.

Of course, the teeth may have orientations other than radial.

For example, there is shown on the figure 8 an application member 90 which has three rows of teeth 91, 92, 93, each row of teeth connecting to a base 94 having a substantially triangular cross-section.

The teeth of each row 91, 92 or 93 are made alternately on each side of a corresponding median core, associated with this row.

The row of teeth 91 comprises a first series of teeth 91a and a second series of teeth 91b, alternately located on each side of a geometric separation surface S, the teeth 91a and 91b being molded in one piece with the base 94.

The geometric separation surface S for the tooth row 91 is a plane that extends substantially parallel to a side 95 of the base 94.

It is the same for the rows of teeth 92 and 93, which thus each extend in the extension of one side, the three rows being oriented in the same direction of rotation around the axis of the base 94.

Variations of the application device described with reference to the figure 1 are represented on the Figures 14 and 15 .

The figure 14 represents an application system in which the product is contained in a tube 140.

This tube is preferably made of a flexible material, which makes it possible to deposit the product on the applicator element by compressing the tube.

Other devices may also be used to deposit the product on the applicator element, such as a pump dispenser for example, and are considered within the scope of the present invention.

The application system represented on the figure 15 comprises a container 150 containing a product solid bread 155. To load the applicator element, the applicator element is moved through the product 155.

The solid bread may be wetted and the application member moved to the moistened portion of the product to charge the applicator to produce.

Alternatively, the application member may be wetted and moved through unhumidified product.

In the examples shown on the Figures 14 and 15 it is not necessary to provide the proximal end of the applicator with a handle or a cap since the applicator is not stored in the container containing the product and does not close such a container.

In addition, in these embodiments, the rod itself can be used as a handle.

The figure 16 represents yet another embodiment.

The applicator shown on the figure 16 has a tapered tip 165 extending from the distal end of the applicator element 161.

When the applicator element 161 is loaded with product, the tapered tip 165 can also be loaded with product and can serve as an eyeliner or device to be engaged between insulated eyelashes.

The Figures 17, 17a and 18 are embodiments in which the applicator comprises an applicator element arranged to be removably attached to the rod.

The application element 170 shown on the Figures 17 and 17a comprises a base 173 on which the core and a row of teeth alternately arranged on opposite sides of the core is disposed.

The base 173 is arranged to be inserted into a connector 171 in the form of a housing formed in the distal end portion of the applicator rod 175.

The figure 17a illustrates the establishment of the base 173 of the application element in the housing 171.

The housing 171 may define a slot 172 at the front or distal end of the shaft to allow passage of the tooth bases and a portion of the core of the applicator member.

Preferably, the width of this slot is chosen so that the bases of the teeth of the applicator element are clamped between opposite faces of the slot.

This arrangement allows the application element to be made of an elastomeric material and the rod 173 in a rigid or semi-rigid material.

As shown on Figures 17 and 17a the longitudinal axis of the applicator element 170 may extend substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the rod 175.

The applicator member 170 is attached to the distal end portion of the stem 175 by its portion between its two ends.

The figure 18 is another exemplary embodiment of an applicator in which the base 183 of the applicator member 180 can be removably attached in a connector housing 181 formed in the distal end portion of the stem 185.

Again, the housing 181 defines a slot 182 in which the base of the applicator element can be engaged.

Unlike the embodiment shown on the Figures 17 and 17a an end of the applicator element 180 when inserted into the connector 181 is connected to a distal end portion of the shaft 185.

On the figure 18 the longitudinal axis of the applicator element 183, once inserted in the connector 181, extends substantially in the same direction as the longitudinal axis of the rod 175.

The applicator member may also extend at an angle to the shaft, with one end of the applicator member being connected to a distal end portion of the shaft.

The figure 19 represents an applicator similar to that described with reference to the figure 17 .

In the example shown on the figure 19 , the base 173 is made substantially in one piece by molding with the rod 175.

Similarly, the teeth 176 can be made by molding in one piece with the base 173 and the rod 175.

The figure 20 represents an applicator according to another example of implementation of the invention.

This applicator comprises an applicator element 201 attached to the distal end of a rod 205.

The applicator element 201 comprises a base 202 on which are disposed a core 203 and a row of consecutive teeth 204.

The teeth 204 are arranged alternately on opposite sides of the core.

The core 203 has a variable height along the axial position along its longitudinal axis so as to form a series of peaks 203a and recesses 203b along the core.

The teeth 204 are arranged at axial positions, along the core 203, corresponding substantially to the peaks 203a.

The hollows 203b form grooves located between two adjacent teeth disposed on two opposite sides of the core 203.

These grooves are capable of containing the product to be applied.

The figure 21 represents an applicator similar to that shown in figure 20 except that the teeth 204 'are flocked.

This flocking may be deposited on the teeth in the form of a coating or may be incorporated into the material used to make the teeth.

In the Figures 20 and 21 , the base on which the teeth and the core are arranged is relatively wide and extends laterally outwardly a relatively large distance beyond the outer surfaces of the teeth and the core.

The Figures 29 to 31 represent other application elements 291, 301, 311 in which the height of the core 293, 303, 313 varies in the longitudinal direction.

Again, these variations in height tend to form hollows and peaks along the soul, the troughs forming essentially grooves arranged between adjacent teeth on the same side of the soul.

On the Figures 29 to 31 , the base on which the teeth and the soul are arranged is relatively narrow.

Its width is hardly greater than the distance measured through the web between two consecutive teeth 294, 314.

On the Figures 29 and 31 the teeth have upper portions extending from the bases which diverge apart from each other when the applicator element is observed along its longitudinal axis.

On the figure 30 the upper portions of the teeth 304 are substantially rectilinear.

Although not shown, consecutive teeth may have rectilinear upper parts and other upper parts diverging alternately with the teeth having rectilinear upper parts.

In fact, any combination of free ends converging, diverging, substantially rectilinear or intersecting, when the applicator element is observed along its longitudinal axis, is within the scope of the present invention.

The Figures 22 to 25 represent different dispositions of teeth relative to the soul.

In each of the configurations represented on the Figures 22 to 25 the teeth 224, 234, 244, 254 and the core 223, 233, 243, 253 are arranged such that an upper surface T of the core is located between a lower end B and a free end F of a tooth, the teeth being arranged alternately on two opposite sides of the soul.

The Figures 26 and 27 are embodiments in which the teeth 264, 274 have relatively broad bases that converge significantly towards their free end when the applicator element 261, 271 is viewed from the side.

The bases of consecutive teeth are substantially contiguous while their free ends are relatively spaced apart from each other.

On the figure 27 , the teeth 272 have hollow portions H extending over part of their length.

Openings O on each face of the teeth lead to the hollow portions.

Although on the figure 27 the openings are located on each side of the teeth, an opening could be made on only one side of the teeth without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The openings and hollow portions of the teeth allow the applicator element to contain an even larger amount of product.

The figure 28 illustrates how three consecutive teeth, arranged alternately on opposite sides of the core, can be arranged to form a volume V to contain the product P.

In the configuration of the teeth and the soul represented on the figure 28 the portions of the consecutive teeth which extend above the core form a gap between them, arranged in such a way that the eyelashes E entering this gap be able to reach the soul.

The gap I is also configured to allow it to grip the eyelashes E, in order to extend and curl them.

As explained above, the application element may have a curvilinear longitudinal axis as shown in FIG. figure 32 or may have a rectilinear longitudinal axis as shown on the figure 33 .

In addition, the application element may be made of a flexible material so that it can deform during application.

A flexible application element is represented on the figure 32 .

The application element 321 of the figure 32 comprises a base 323 which has a curved longitudinal axis with a convex surface on which the teeth 322 are disposed.

This convex surface causes the teeth to diverge, allowing a relatively large amount of product to be housed between adjacent and consecutive teeth.

In addition, the applicator shown on the figure 32 may allow for improved loading of the teeth with the product when the applicator element is removed through a wiper member, since the force exerted by the wiper member on the applicator element tends to to make it rectilinear and causes the teeth to get closer, especially to a median portion (mid-length) of the application element.

When this approximation of the teeth, the product can be driven inside the teeth to the bases of the teeth and the base, allowing the applicator element to contain a relatively large amount of product.

As is apparent from the various embodiments illustrated, the teeth and the core may have a wide variety of geometric configurations without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Thus, for example, the teeth may be relatively narrow with tapered free ends as illustrated in FIG. figure 34 or with rounded free ends, such as those shown on the Figures 32 and 33 .

On the figure 34 , the teeth are spread laterally from the soul.

The invention is of course not limited to the examples which have just been described, the particular features of these examples being able to be combined within the same applicator.

The teeth may have shapes other than those described and the teeth of an application element or a row do not necessarily have the same shape.

For example, the application element may comprise a succession of consecutive teeth comprising a first and second series of alternating teeth, the teeth of the first series having a shape different from those of the second series.

In addition, the teeth of the same series can also be made of teeth having different shapes or different heights.

The teeth may, for example, have a height which varies according to the axial position along the application element, for example a height which increases, decreases, decreases, then increases or increases and then decreases at one end of the element. application to another.

The teeth may have a surface condition to increase the amount of product that the application element is responsible for; the teeth may thus include capillary grooves or flocking.

An example of such flocking is shown on the figure 21 .

The teeth may be surface treated by abrasion, for example forming forks at their ends.

The teeth may undergo a heat treatment to round for example their tip, or even form a ball at their free end. The teeth become less aggressive vis-à-vis the eyelashes.

The teeth may be covered with a coating such as a varnish or PTFE for example, to give them a better glide on the eyelashes or on the contrary more roughness.

Slip agents may alternatively or additionally be embedded in the material used to make the teeth.

The application element and more particularly the teeth may also comprise active agents such as preservatives, moisture absorbers, metal salts, in particular of copper, magnetic particles and other similar suitable materials, intended to diffuse into the product when the latter is deposited on the application element. These assets may be incorporated into the material used to make the applicator element or may be deposited as a coating on the applicator element, or both.

In addition, products can be used to make the teeth or the core or to coat the teeth or the core that change the surface tension of the application member in contact with moisture.

The application element is preferably made by plastic injection, but alternatively it is possible to use material forming processes by compression, stamping or machining.

Although different configurations of teeth and cores are within the scope of the present invention, in each of the embodiments described, the length of a row of consecutive teeth is preferably between about 10 mm and 45 mm, preferably between About 15 mm and about 28 mm and more preferably between about 20 mm and about 26 mm.

The individual length of each tooth is preferably from about 0.5 mm to about 15 mm and more preferably from about 7 mm to about 13 mm.

The number of teeth in a row of consecutive teeth is preferably between about 6 and 50, preferably between about 10 and about 35, and more preferably between about 15 and about 32.

Claims (64)

1. A device for packaging and applying a product to the eyelashes or eyebrows, including a container (11) containing a reserve of product (P) and an applicator (12) including a stem (13) provided at one end with an application element (14; 40; 50; 60; 80; 90), an upper surface (T) of the core being situated between a free end (f) of each tooth and a free lower end (B) of each tooth, characterized in that the application element includes at least one row of teeth (15a, 15b) arranged alternating on both sides, turned in substantially opposite directions of a core (16; 42; 52; 81).
2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that an interstice is formed between the upper parts of at least two consecutive teeth.
3. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that said interstice (20) is arranged to allow the eyelashes to reach the core (16).
4. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that said interstice is arranged to prevent the eyelashes from reaching the core.
5. The device according to one of claims 3 and 4, characterized in that the interstice is in the form of an indentation.
6. The device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the bottom of the indentation is situated at a distance from the core greater than or equal to 0.2 mm.
7. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the upper parts of the teeth form indentations (54) between them.
8. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two consecutive teeth (51a; 51b) have substantially joined bases.
9. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that two consecutive teeth have overlapping bases.
10. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bases of the teeth overlap when the comb is observed from the side.
11. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and second consecutive teeth have bases positioned such that a portion of the base of the first tooth is in the same axial position along the application element as a portion of the base of the second tooth.
12. The device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one tooth has a depth greater than its width, the depth being measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the core and the width being measured parallel to the longitudinal axis of the core.
13. The device according to the preceding claim, wherein the ratio of the depth of the base of one tooth to its width is greater than or equal to 1, 2, or 1.4.
14. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bases of adjacent teeth are connected to each other, the device including at least one notch between two adjacent teeth positioned on the same side of the core.
15. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the teeth (41a, 41b) extend over substantially the entire height of the application element.
16. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the enclosure of the application element is a cylindrical surface.
17. The device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the baseline of said cylindrical surface is a curve formed by the union of a half-circle in the lower part and an upside down V in the upper part.
18. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cross-section of the median core represents less than approximately half of the total cross-section of the application element.
19. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the teeth are made by molding in a single piece with the core, preferably from a plastic material.
20. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the application element is formed by a part attached on the stem (13) of the applicator.
21. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the application element is removably fastened on the stem of the applicator.
22. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the application element is made by molding a plastic material in a single piece with the applicator stem.
23. The device according to claim 22, characterized in that the base is made by molding plastic material in a single piece with the stem of the applicator and with sealing means capable of sealably closing the container.
24. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the application element is made from a plastic material more flexible than that used to produce the stem of the applicator.
25. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that the application element is made from a plastic material harder than that used to produce the stem of the applicator.
26. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the consecutive teeth are positioned alternating on either side of the geometric separation surface (S).
27. The device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the geometric separation surface (S) is a plane, advantageously a median plane for the core.
28. The device according to any one of the two immediately preceding claims, characterized in that the geometric separation surface (S) is a joint plane for molding the application element.
29. The device according to claim 26, characterized in that the geometric separation surface is a cylindrical surface whereof the baseline is a curve or a broken line.
30. The device according to claim 26, characterized in that the geometric separation surface is nonplanar.
31. The device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the geometric separation surface is twisted.
32. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the teeth have front and/or rear faces perpendicular to the axis Z of the core or forming an acute or obtuse angle therewith.
33. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the row of teeth includes a first series of teeth whereof the front and/or rear faces are inclined relative to the axis of the core and a second series of teeth whereof the front and/or rear faces are inclined differently from that of the teeth of the first series relative to the axis of the core, the teeth of the first series and those of the second series being arranged alternating at least partially on either side of a geometric separation surface.
34. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the teeth include first and second consecutive teeth, the first tooth having a free end oriented toward a first end of the application element and the second tooth having a free end oriented toward a second end of the application element.
35. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that two consecutive teeth include free ends oriented moving away from each other, when the application element is observed along its longitudinal axis (fig. 11).
36. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 34, characterized in that two consecutive teeth include free ends oriented toward one another, when the application element is observed along its longitudinal axis (fig. 10).
37. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 34, characterized in that when the application element is observed in its axis (Z), two consecutive teeth have substantially parallel free ends (132).
38. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that two adjacent teeth overlap when the application element is observed along its longitudinal axis.
39. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one tooth has a concave or convex face oriented toward one of the ends of the application element.
40. The device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that at least two consecutive teeth have concave or convex faces oriented toward one of the ends of the application element.
41. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the application element includes a first series of teeth situated on one side of a geometric separation surface and a second series of teeth situated on the other side of that geometric separation surface, alternating with the teeth of the first series, the front face, rear face, respectively, of the teeth of the first series being concave or convex toward the front, toward the rear, respectively, and the front face, rear face, respectively, of the teeth of the second series being concave or convex toward the front, toward the rear, respectively.
42. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the application element includes a first series of teeth situated on one side of a geometric separation surface and a second series of teeth situated on the other side of that geometric separation surface, alternating with the teeth of the first series, the front face, rear face, respectively, of the teeth of the first series being concave or convex toward the front, toward the rear, respectively, and the rear face, front face, respectively, of the teeth of the second series being planar.
43. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it includes a single row of teeth.
44. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 42, characterized in that it includes several rows of teeth.
45. The device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the rows of teeth and the corresponding cores are positioned so as to extend substantially in the extension of the corresponding sides of the base in the event the latter has a polygonal section or such that the bases of the teeth connect substantially tangentially to the base when the latter has a non-polygonal section.
46. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one tooth has a hollow portion, preferably extending along at least one portion of its length, at least one face of the tooth having an opening that opens onto that hollow portion.
47. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one tooth is flocked.
48. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the application element has two opposite ends with one of the ends connected to a distal end part of the stem.
49. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the height of the teeth is comprised between approximately 0.5 mm and 15 mm, and preferably is comprised between approximately 7 mm and 13 mm.
50. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it includes a plurality of cores and a plurality of rows of consecutive teeth, these consecutive teeth being positioned alternating on opposite faces of the corresponding core.
51. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it further includes a base on which the teeth and the core are positioned.
52. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the application element has a longitudinal axis substantially parallel to the axis of the stem.
53. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 51, characterized in that the application element has a longitudinal axis forming an angle with the longitudinal axis of the stem.
54. The device according to claim 21, characterized in that the stem includes a connector to a distal end part, the connector being arranged to allow the application element to be fastened on the stem.
55. The device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the application element has two ends and a part situated between the two ends that is fastened on a distal end part of the stem.
56. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 51, characterized in that the application element has a longitudinal axis extending substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the stem.
57. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it includes at least one notch (46) situated between two adjacent teeth of the same side of the core, that notch extending below an upper surface of the core.
58. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container is arranged to receive the application element.
59. The device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the container is provided with a wiping member, which is preferably deformable, and still more preferably made up of a foam block or an elastomer lip.
60. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the product is mascara.
61. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the product contains fibers.
62. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container includes an opening allowing the passage of at least part of the application element in the container and in that the applicator includes a cap at the other end of the stem to sealably close the container.
63. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 61, characterized in that the container is a tube.
64. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 61, characterized in that the product is in the form of a solid bar.

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