EP1070467B1 - Device for storing and applying a product to eyelashes 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.

Packaging and application devices are known in which the applicator element consists of a comb having a row of teeth defining between them grooves which are loaded with product when the applicator 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 comb and these known devices do not make it possible to smooth the product deposited on the surface of the eyelashes and to lengthen or bend them satisfactorily.

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

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 present invention is intended in particular to provide a new device for packaging and applying a product on the eyelashes or the eyebrows which is capable of satisfactorily gripping the eyelashes, while allowing the formation of relative product reserves. important.

There is also a need to have an applicator element capable, when the product to be applied contains fibers, to orient them so that they are substantially parallel to the eyelashes.

The device according to the invention is characterized in that the applicator element comprises at least one row of consecutive teeth arranged alternately at least partially on either side of a geometrical surface of separation, at least two consecutive teeth having substantially contiguous portions and forming between them a gap, preferably in the form of notch.

As will be specified hereinafter, the alternating disposition of the consecutive teeth on either side of the geometric separation surface makes it possible to constitute one or more product reserves defined by groups of consecutive teeth.

By "substantially joined parts" it is to be understood that an eyelash inserted between consecutive teeth in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the applicator element is prevented from moving freely through substantially adjoining portions, because of the proximity of these parts to each other.

In other words, when the applicator element is brought into contact with the eyelashes in such a way that it extends substantially transversely to the eyelashes, an eyelash penetrating between consecutive teeth having substantially adjoining parts will be prevented from moving. freely between these parts and will be gripped because of the proximity of these parts to each other.

The gripping of the eyelash by the substantially contiguous portions may occur at any location along the length of the consecutive teeth.

In addition, the substantially contiguous portions may be close enough to prevent the passage of an eyelash between them.

Although substantially joined portions include contacting or overlapping portions, these portions are not necessarily in contact so that an eyelash is prevented from freely moving through them.

The choice of the spacing between the substantially contiguous parts may result from various considerations, including the average diameter of an eyelash and the nature of the product applied.

As indicated above, the substantially contiguous parts make it possible to grip an eyelash.

This gripping distributes the product in a substantially uniform manner over substantially the entire length of an eyelash.

When the applicator is used to apply mascara, such a substantially uniform application over substantially the entire length of the eyelash may make the eyelash appear longer.

The gripping of the eyelashes by the substantially joined parts also allows to rearrange the eyelashes by moving the applicator.

For example, when the eyelashes are gripped, movement, including rotation, of the applicator may allow to curl.

In a particular embodiment, the substantially contiguous portions of said two consecutive teeth comprise the bases of the teeth.

The basics can touch each other.

The basics can still overlap.

In particular, the bases may overlap when the application element is side observation.

In general, the substantially joined parts can touch and / or overlap.

By overlapping portions, overlapping portions are to be understood when the applicator element is viewed from the side, that is, perpendicular to the axis of the array.

In a particular embodiment, two successive teeth located on the same side of the geometric separation surface have spaced bases.

Unlike the brush described in the application DE-A-25 59 273 in which the relatively spaced hairs do not prevent the eyelashes from moving freely between the bristles, in the invention, the eyelash which engages in the indentation formed between two consecutive teeth is grasped by these two teeth and is gripped by said teeth.

The eyelash may even be prevented from passing entirely into the gap formed by the teeth and reaching the base on which the teeth are arranged.

The eyelashes are gripped by the teeth because of the substantially contiguous parts, and the teeth are capable of lengthening the eyelashes and smoothing the product deposited on their surface, making it possible to improve the makeup.

Moreover, unlike the brush described in the application EP-A-0 474 934 , the bases of the teeth of the same row can form between them cavities, delimited by parts of three consecutive teeth, to form reserves of product.

Thanks to the invention, there is a packaging and application device capable of simultaneously containing a sufficient product load to apply and grasp the eyelashes to lengthen, curl or smooth the product on their surface.

In addition, by playing on the geometry of the teeth and their arrangement, it is easy to form cavities for housing more or less product between the teeth.

The spacing between the bases of two successive teeth located on the same side of said geometric separation surface is for example greater than or equal to half the width of the tooth located on the other side of said geometric separation surface.

Thus, one can constitute a significant reserve of product between the teeth.

In a particular embodiment, at least two consecutive teeth have faces extending in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the application member and overlapping.

The bottom of each indentation or V-groove defined by two consecutive teeth may be located above the substantially contiguous parts.

Preferably, the teeth are arranged on a base and the bottom of the notches is located at a distance from the base, for example a distance greater than or equal to 0.2 mm.

The teeth disposed on one side of the geometric separation surface preferably have axial positions along the applicator element different from those of the teeth disposed on the other side of the geometric separation surface.

Three consecutive teeth arranged alternately may define a volume arranged to contain the product, which is preferably mascara.

This volume may comprise a substantially open portion and a substantially closed portion.

The substantially open portion is then defined by two of the three consecutive teeth disposed on the same side of the geometric separation surface and the substantially closed portion is defined by that of the three consecutive teeth which is disposed on the other side of the geometric separation surface. .

The substantially open portion and the substantially closed portion are rotated in a direction that preferably deviates from the geometric separation surface and can extend parallel to the geometric separation surface.

In addition, the geometric separation surface may be located between the substantially closed portion and the substantially open portion.

The base on which the teeth are arranged can also be used to define the volume in question.

In a particular embodiment, the applicator element is disposed at the end of a rod. The applicator element comprises at least one row of consecutive teeth arranged alternately at least partially on opposite sides of a geometric separation surface, the consecutive teeth having bases, a cross section of each of the bases of the teeth located one side of the geometric separation surface having a tangent face or plane facing a portion of the applicator element located on the opposite side of the geometric separation surface.

This face or tangent plane may be substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the application element. At least two consecutive teeth in the row may have substantially contiguous portions.

The cross section of the teeth may be polygonal and one face of each of the bases of the teeth may be facing a portion of the applicator element located on the opposite side of the geometric separation surface and may be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the application element.

Alternatively, the cross section may be at least partially non-polygonal along an inner region of the base of the teeth. In this case, a tangent plane along each inner portion may be rotated toward a portion of the applicator member located on the opposite side of the geometric separation surface and be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis.

Still in a particular embodiment, the teeth have deeper than wide bases.

The depth of a tooth is measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the applicator element while the width of a tooth is measured parallel to the longitudinal axis.

Thus, the teeth provide better resistance to forces exerted transversely on the application element.

In a particular embodiment, the teeth are deeper than the interval separating two successive teeth staggered on the same side of said geometric surface of seperation.

In a particular embodiment, the ratio b / e is greater than or equal to 1.2, preferably greater than or equal to 1.4, b being the depth of the base of a tooth and e its width.

Still in a particular embodiment, the ratio b / c is greater than or equal to 1.2, preferably greater than or equal to 1.4, b being the depth of the base of a tooth and c the interval separating two successive teeth. offset on the same side of said geometric separation surface.

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 ratio of the spacing between two teeth located on the same side of the geometric separation surface to the width of a tooth located on the opposite side of the geometric separation surface between the two teeth in question can be between About 0.2 and 2, measured about halfway up the teeth.

Preferably, the teeth are made by molding in one piece with the base.

More preferably, the teeth and the base are molded of plastic.

The application element may be constituted by an insert. Alternatively, the application element may be made by molding material, especially plastic, integrally with the rod of the applicator.

The application element may include a portion for releasably securing it to the applicator shaft.

The applicator element preferably has two substantially opposite ends and a portion located between these ends.

One of said ends of the applicator member may be connected to a distal end portion of the shank and a longitudinal axis of the applicator member may extend at an angle with or parallel to the axis. longitudinal of the stem.

Alternatively, the portion of the applicator member located between its two opposite ends may be connected to a distal end portion of the rod, and the longitudinal axis of the applicator member may be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the stem.

The stem can be substantially flat.

The stem may have a connector at a distal end portion and the applicator member may be engaged in the connector.

Preferably, the aforementioned connector defines a slot arranged to receive the application element.

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 applicator may also include a cap disposed at one end of the applicator shaft, away from the applicator member.

This cap may comprise a sealing element and be arranged to seal a container opening.

In a particular embodiment, the applicator element is made of a softer plastic material than that used to make the rod of the applicator.

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 applicator element may be made of a softer plastic material than that used to manufacture the applicator shaft, which provides greater comfort in use.

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

A series of teeth may be disposed on the upper surfaces of each of the two parts and these two parts, once assembled, may define a row of consecutive teeth arranged alternately on either side of a geometric separation surface.

The height of the teeth can be variable.

Preferably, the height of the teeth is between 0.5 and 15 mm, and more preferably between 7 and 13 mm.

In a particular embodiment, the total height of the teeth is of the order of 3 mm and the bottom of the aforementioned indentations is at a distance d from the base equal to about 2 mm.

In a particular embodiment, the geometric separation surface is a plane, advantageously a median plane for the base.

The geometric separation surface is advantageously a joint plane for molding the row of teeth, and preferably for molding the applicator element.

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

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

In a particular embodiment, at least one notch is formed between the adjacent tooth bases disposed at least partially on the same side of the geometric separation surface.

The base may have two sides turned in substantially opposite directions with the consecutive teeth alternately arranged on these sides turned in substantially opposite directions.

The notch can be made on one side of the base between two teeth arranged on this side.

Preferably, the notch is in fluid communication with a volume defined by the two adjacent teeth and the third tooth disposed on the opposite side of the geometric separation surface, between the two aforementioned teeth.

A plurality of notches may be formed between adjacent teeth on one side or the other of the geometric separation surface.

This plurality of notches may also be formed on opposite sides of the base.

In a particular embodiment, the teeth, in particular their bases, may have front and / or rear faces perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the applicator element or forming an acute or obtuse angle therewith.

The front faces are directed towards the distal end of the applicator and the back faces are directed towards the proximal end.

In a particular embodiment, the row of teeth comprises a first series of teeth whose front and / or rear faces are inclined with respect to the axis of the base and a second series of teeth whose front and / or rear faces are inclined in a manner different from that of the teeth of the first series with respect to the axis of the applicator element, the teeth of the first series and those of the second series being arranged alternately at least partially on both sides another of a geometric separation surface.

The longitudinal axis of the bases of the teeth may make an acute angle, obtuse or straight with respect to the longitudinal axis of the application element.

When the teeth are arranged on a base, the bases of the teeth can make an angle with the longitudinal axis of the base.

In a particular embodiment, the teeth comprise an upper portion in the same axis as their base.

In a particular embodiment, the teeth which are offset at least partially alternately on either side of the geometric separation surface comprise upper portions respectively oriented towards the front and towards the rear.

In a particular embodiment, two consecutive teeth comprise upper parts oriented outwardly, that is to say away from each other, when the application element is observed from the front.

Still in a particular embodiment, two consecutive teeth have upper portions facing inwardly, that is to say one towards the other, when the application element is observed from the front.

Two consecutive teeth may have overlapping faces extending in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the application member. Alternatively, two consecutive teeth may have overlapping faces extending in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the applicator member. Preferably, these faces are located on the bases of the teeth.

At least one tooth of the applicator element may have a convex, concave or planar face directed towards one end of the applicator element.

The faces of the teeth disposed on one side of the geometric separation surface may be different in their shape of the faces of the teeth disposed on the other side of the geometric separation surface.

In a particular embodiment, the applicator element comprises 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, alternately with the teeth of the first series, the teeth of the first series having their front face, respectively rear, convex or concave forward, respectively rearward, and the teeth of the second series having their front face respectively rearward , concave or convex forwards or backwards respectively.

In a particular embodiment, the applicator element comprises 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, alternately with the teeth of the first series, the teeth of the first series having their front face, respectively rear, concave or convex towards the front, respectively towards the rear, the teeth of the second series having their rear face, respectively before, plane.

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 two or even three consecutive teeth may have free ends that are aligned.

In a particular embodiment, the base may have a polygonal cross-section or not, and the applicator element may comprise at least one row of teeth extending substantially in the extension of one side of the base in the case of a polygonal section or substantially tangentially connected to the base in the case of a non-polygonal section, for example circular or elliptical. Such an application element makes it easier to use the base for applying the product and the contact of the eyelashes with the teeth can be carried out gradually. This application element also makes it possible to curl the eyelashes.

The row of teeth can also extend substantially radially from the base.

A plurality of rows may be disposed on the base at different angular positions along a perimeter of the base, thereby forming a brush.

The container may contain a wiper member arranged to remove excess product from the teeth of the applicator member when the applicator is removed from the container.

This wiper member is preferably deformable and may comprise, for example, a foam block or an elastomeric lip.

The applied product may contain fibers which are oriented by the applicator element so as to be parallel to the eyelashes.

The invention further relates to a method for applying a product to the eyelashes, comprising the step of loading with the product at least a portion of the teeth of the applicator and placing at least a portion of the teeth in contact with the eyelashes , so that the product is deposited on the eyelashes.

Loading into product can be done by inserting the applicator into a container containing the product and then extracting the applicator from this container and squeezing out the excess product.

Alternatively, the loading of the product can be effected by dispensing the product on the teeth from a container or by bringing the teeth into contact with a solid product cake.

In the latter case, the product bread may be pre-wetted before bringing the applicator element into contact with it or the application element may be moistened and then brought into contact with the product cake.

When the applicator element can be removably attached to the rod, the user can choose from among several application elements one that has the appropriate tooth configuration to achieve the desired effect.

Preferably, the applicator is intended to apply a cosmetic product, for example mascara, to the eyelashes, but other products can still be used and applied to other surfaces.

• la figure 1 est une vue schématique en coupe axiale d'un dispositif conforme à un premier exemple de réalisation de l'invention,
• la figure 1A est une coupe transversale schématique partielle d'un applicateur dans lequel l'organe d'essorage est constitué par une lèvre en élastomère.
• la figure 2 est une vue schématique en perspective de l'élément d'application, avant fixation dans un logement de la tige de l'applicateur,
• la figure 3 est une vue de face selon la flèche III de la figure 2,
• la figure 4 est une vue de partielle, de côté, de l'élément d'application,
• les figures 5 et 6 représentent de manière schématique l'élément d'application avant et après le remplissage avec le produit des cavités formées entre les dents,
• les figures 7 à 12 sont des vues très schématiques illustrant diverses configurations de dents,
• la figure 13 illustre une variante de réalisation du peigne,
• la figure 14 illustre une variante de réalisation de l'élément d'application,
• les figures 15 à 21 illustrent des variantes de réalisation du peigne, et
• la figure 22 représente une brosse ayant trois rangées de dents disposées en étoile,
• la figure 23 est une vue en perspective d'un ensemble d'application conforme à un exemple de mise en oeuvre de l'invention, dans lequel le produit à distribuer est contenu dans un tube flexible,
• la figure 24 est une vue en perspective d'un autre ensemble d'application, dans lequel le produit se présente sous la forme d'un pain ou d'une poudre,
• la figure 25 est une vue en perspective d'un applicateur conforme à un autre exemple de mise en oeuvre de l'invention, dans lequel l'extrémité distale de l'élément d'application comporte une pointe effilée,
• la figure 26 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 une partie d'extrémité distale de la tige de l'applicateur, conformément à un exemple de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 26A est une vue partielle à échelle agrandie illustrant l'insertion de l'élément d'application dans le logement de la tige de l'applicateur,
• la figure 27 est une vue en perspective d'un applicateur similaire à celui représenté sur la figure 26, hormis le fait que l'élément d'application est réalisé d'un seul tenant avec la tige, conformément à un exemple de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 28 est une vue en perspective d'un applicateur dans lequel l'élément d'application peut être fixé de manière amovible sur une partie d'extrémité distale de la tige, conformément à un autre exemple de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 29 est une vue partielle en perspective d'un élément d'application ayant une embase polygonale avec une pluralité de côtés dirigés dans des directions différentes et une pluralité de rangées de dents consécutives disposées respectivement sur chacune des faces de l'embase, conformément à un exemple de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 29A est une coupe transversale prise selon le trait de coupe A-A de la figure 29,
• la figure 30 est une vue partielle en perspective d'un élément d'application ayant une embase non polygonale avec une pluralité de rangées de dents consécutives disposées à des positions angulaires différentes autour de l'embase, conformément à un exemple de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 31 est une vue schématique de dessus d'un élément d'application comportant une rangée de dents consécutives, conformément à un autre exemple de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 32 est une vue à échelle agrandie, en perspective, d'un élément d'application comportant des dents avec des portions creuses s'étendant sur leurs côtés, conformément à un exemple de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 33 est une vue partielle en perspective d'un applicateur ayant un élément d'application comportant des paires de dents consécutives disposées de manière alternée et sensiblement jointives sur une partie de leur hauteur,
• la figure 34 est une vue partielle en perspective d'un applicateur ayant un élément d'application flexible, comportant un axe longitudinal incurvé, conformément à un autre exemple de mise en oeuvre de l'invention, et
• la figure 35 est une vue partielle en perspective d'un applicateur comportant des dents floquées.

Other features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from reading the detailed description which follows, non-limiting examples of embodiments of the invention, and examining the attached drawing, in which:

• the figure 1 is a schematic view in axial section of a device according to a first embodiment of the invention,
• the Figure 1A is a partial schematic cross section of an applicator in which the wiper member is constituted by an elastomeric lip.
• the figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of the applicator element, before attachment in a housing of the applicator rod,
• the figure 3 is a front view along arrow III of the figure 2 ,
• the figure 4 is a partial, side view of the application element,
• the Figures 5 and 6 schematically represent the application element before and after filling with the product cavities formed between the teeth,
• the Figures 7 to 12 are very schematic views illustrating various configurations of teeth,
• the figure 13 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the comb,
• the figure 14 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the application element,
• the Figures 15 to 21 illustrate alternative embodiments of the comb, and
• the figure 22 represents a brush having three rows of teeth arranged in a star,
• the figure 23 is a perspective view of an application set according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, wherein the product to be dispensed is contained in a flexible tube,
• the figure 24 is a perspective view of another application set, wherein the product is in the form of a bread or a powder,
• the figure 25 is a perspective view of an applicator according to another embodiment of the invention, wherein the distal end of the applicator element comprises a tapered tip,
• the figure 26 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 a distal end portion of the applicator shaft, according to an exemplary implementation of the invention,
• the figure 26A is a partial view on an enlarged scale illustrating the insertion of the applicator element into the housing of the rod of the applicator,
• the figure 27 is a perspective view of an applicator similar to that shown on the figure 26 , except that the application element is made in one piece with the rod, according to an exemplary implementation of the invention,
• the figure 28 is a perspective view of an applicator in which the applicator element can be removably attached to a distal end portion of the stem, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 29 is a partial perspective view of an applicator element having a polygonal base with a plurality of sides directed in different directions and a plurality of consecutive rows of teeth respectively disposed on each of the faces of the base, according to an example implementation of the invention,
• the figure 29A is a cross-section taken according to the AA cut line of the figure 29 ,
• the figure 30 is a partial perspective view of an applicator element having a non-polygonal base with a plurality of rows of consecutive teeth arranged at different angular positions around the base, according to an exemplary implementation of the invention ,
• the figure 31 is a diagrammatic view from above of an application element comprising a row of consecutive teeth, according to another example of implementation of the invention,
• the figure 32 is an enlarged view, in perspective, of an application element comprising teeth with hollow portions extending on their sides, according to an exemplary implementation of the invention,
• the figure 33 is a partial perspective view of an applicator having an applicator element comprising pairs of consecutive teeth arranged alternately and substantially contiguous over a part of their height,
• the figure 34 is a partial perspective view of an applicator having a flexible application element, having a curved longitudinal axis, according to another embodiment of the invention, and
• the figure 35 is a partial perspective view of an applicator with flocked teeth.

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 container 11 comprises a wiper member 19 constituted in the example described by an open cell foam block.

Alternatively, the wiper member may be constituted by a flexible lip 19A, flocked or not, as shown in FIG. Figure 1A .

In each case, the wiper member is preferably deformable so as to fit the shape of the applicator element.

The applicator element 14 has the shape of a comb located in the extension of the rod 13 of the applicator.

Thus, a longitudinal axis of the application element 14 of the figure 1 is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rod 13 and one end of the applicator element 14 is connected to the end of the rod 13.

As explained, the longitudinal axis of the rod and that of the applicator element do not necessarily have to be parallel.

The rod 13 has, over a part of its length, a smaller diameter than the applicator element 14, so as not to over-compress the wiper member 19.

It has been shown on a larger 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.

Although on the figure 2 each tooth of a series of teeth is disposed entirely on a corresponding side of the geometric separation surface, it is possible, without departing from the scope of the present invention, to have teeth of which only a part is disposed on one side of the geometric separation surface.

The teeth 15a and 15b are connected to a base 16, of longitudinal axis Z.

The geometric separation surface S is here a median plane of symmetry for the base 16 and also a joint plane for molding the application element.

As we can see on the figure 3 , the outer surface of the base 16 is substantially a cylinder of semicircular section and the casing of the row 15 of teeth a cylinder of substantially triangular section.

The cross section of the envelope surface of the application element formed by the teeth and the base has a general shape of water droplet, as can be seen on the figure 2 .

The applicator element 14 is provided at its front end (that is to say distal) with a rounded nose 17 intended to facilitate the insertion of the applicator into the receptacle 11.

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

As can be seen on the figure 2 , the depth b of the teeth 15a and 15b at their connection to the base 16 is in the described example greater than their width e and also greater than the gap c between two consecutive teeth 15a or 15b.

The depth b is measured perpendicular to the Z axis of the base.

The width e of the teeth is measured parallel to the Z axis of the base.

The spacing c between two teeth 15a or 15b is measured parallel to the Z axis of the base 16.

The Z axis of the base 16 can make an angle, for example a few degrees, with the axis X of the rod 13 of the applicator.

In fact, as illustrated in Figures 26 and 27 , the application element can even be connected to the rod by a portion between its two opposite ends. Thus, the longitudinal axis of the applicator element may extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the rod.

Thanks to their enlarged base, the teeth are able to resist a stress exerted transversely to the Z axis, which makes it possible to separate the eyelashes and to smooth the product deposited on their surface, even if the product used has partially hardened.

Each tooth 15a or 15b has a lower portion 20 having faces front 21 and rear 22 substantially planar and parallel, perpendicular to the Z axis, and an upper portion 23 having front faces 24 and rear 25 converging towards the top of the tooth, so that the upper portion 23 of each tooth has a general shape tapered when the comb is viewed from the side.

The terms front and rear are used here to designate parts directed respectively to the nose 17 of the comb 14 or to the rod 13 of the applicator 12.

Three consecutive teeth form between them and with the base 16 a cavity 26 for containing the product to deposit it on the eyelashes.

Interstices are formed between consecutive teeth when the applicator element is viewed from the side, as on the figure 4 .

In general, these interstices may be in the form of indentations whose bottom is located above the substantially contiguous portions of two consecutive teeth.

These notches are arranged to grip the eyelashes, separate, comb and smooth the deposited product on their surface.

The bottom 29 of the notches 28 is in the example described at a distance d from the base 16, the distance d being preferably greater than or equal to 0.2 mm. In the embodiment described, this distance d is of the order of 2 mm, the total height of the teeth being of the order of 3 mm.

It is understood that by adjusting the height of the teeth, the distance d and the interval c can easily act on the amount of product which the comb is loaded.

The lower portions 20 of two consecutive teeth, essentially at their bases, overlap very slightly as the comb is viewed from the side.

We have shown on Figures 5 and 6 the comb 14 respectively before and after it is loaded with product P between the teeth.

It will be understood that the spacing c between the teeth of one and the same series of teeth 15a or 15b may be relatively large in favor of the product quantity which the comb loads without the comb losing its ability to grip the eyelashes, thanks to the offset of the teeth and the fact that the notches 28 formed by the upper parts of the teeth remain sufficiently narrow.

The teeth of the application element may have upper portions having many configurations without departing from the scope of this invention.

As an example, we have illustrated very schematically some possible configurations on the Figures 7 to 12 .

In these figures, there are shown two consecutive teeth 30a and 30b of a comb-shaped application element respectively offset on one side and the other of a geometric separation surface S containing the axis Z of the base, these teeth having lower portions, or respective bases 31a and 31b and respective upper portions, or free ends, 32a and 32b.

In the configuration of the figure 7 , the upper parts 32a and 32b are of the same axis as the bases 31a and 31b and substantially parallel.

The bases 31a and 31b have a common edge.

In the configuration of the figure 8 the upper parts 32a and 32b are respectively inclined towards the front and towards the rear.

Thus, the teeth of the series 30a have an upper portion 32a directed towards one end of the applicator element, namely its distal end, and the teeth of the series 30b have an upper portion 30b directed towards the opposite end of the application element, namely its proximal end.

The configuration could be reversed, i.e., the upper portions 32a could be inclined rearward and the upper portions 32b could be inclined forwardly.

In the configuration of the figure 9 , the upper parts 32a and 32b are inclined respectively to the left and to the right, when the comb is viewed from the front.

Thus, the upper portions of two consecutive teeth diverging in spacing from one another where extend outwardly when the application element is viewed from the front.

In the configuration of the figure 10 , the upper parts 32a and 32b are respectively inclined to the right and to the left and can cross or not when the comb is viewed from the front.

Thus, the upper portions of two consecutive teeth converge toward each other where are directed inwardly when the applicator element is observed in its axis from its front face.

In a variant not shown, the upper parts of the teeth are, in addition to being inclined respectively to the left and to the right, inclined respectively forward and backward, or vice versa.

The contact between the bases of the teeth may not be limited to a common edge and the teeth may overlap more along the Z axis when the comb is viewed from the side, in a direction perpendicular to the Z axis, as shown in FIG. figure 11 .

Adjacent faces of consecutive teeth can thus be arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the applicator element and overlap.

The teeth can still overlap in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the base, as shown in figure 12 .

The teeth may then comprise rear faces and front faces, extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the application element, which overlap.

We have shown on the figure 13 an application element 40 which differs from that shown in FIG. figure 2 in that the base 41 has grooves or notches 42 formed in the extension of the voids formed between adjacent teeth located on the same side of the geometric separation surface.

These slots are capable of containing the product to be applied, further increasing the amount of product that can be loaded the application element.

The application element 40 comprises a row of teeth composed of a first series of teeth 41a and a second series of teeth 41b, arranged alternately on each side of a geometric separation surface S, which is here a median plane for the base 41.

The teeth 41a and 41b overlap along the axis of the base 41 more than those of the application element 14 of the figure 2 .

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

The base may have a polygonal cross section, for example triangular, with a row of teeth extending in the extension of each side of the base, the eyelashes may come into contact with the base to be loaded product at the moment of the application and then gradually with the teeth, in order to smooth the product and to separate the eyelashes.

For example, there is shown on the figure 14 a row of teeth 193a, 193b whose bases extend substantially in the extension of a side 191 of the base 192, which is of triangular section.

The teeth 193a and 193b have a general configuration similar to that of the application element 14 of the Figures 1 to 4 .

It should be noted that the base may have a cross section having various shapes.

Thus, the base may have a non-polygonal cross section and the rows of teeth may extend substantially tangentially to a perimeter of the base.

It is represented in front view on the figure 22 a brush 200 having a base 204 of substantially triangular cross section and three rows of teeth 201, 202 and 203 arranged in a star, each row extending radially.

Each row 201 to 203 has teeth alternately offset on either side of a geometric separation surface which is constituted by a radial plane.

Thus, the row 201 comprises two series of alternating teeth 201a and 201b similar to the teeth 15a and 15b of the application element 14 of the figure 2 .

The application element can be made by assembling several parts.

For example, there is shown on the figure 15 a comb 50 comprising two parts 51 and 52 to be assembled, made in one piece by molding plastic material, joined by a film hinge 53.

The portion 51 has a series of teeth 54a and the portion 52 has a series of teeth 54b, the teeth 54a and 54b forming, when the portion 51 is assembled with the portion 52, a row of teeth alternately located on either side a geometric separation surface that includes the contact plane of parts 51 and 52

The portion 51 may include a housing 55 and the portion 52 a bracket 56 shaped to engage the housing 55 to keep the parts 51 and 52 assembled against each other.

The teeth of the application element may comprise front and rear faces forming an acute or obtuse angle with the Z axis of the comb.

For example, there is shown on the figure 16 a comb 60 which comprises a first series of teeth 61a and a second series of teeth 61b alternately located on either side of a geometric separation surface S which is here a median plane of symmetry for the base.

Each tooth 61a or 61b has lower portions whose respective front faces 62 and 63 extend in a direction N, at an angle to the longitudinal axis Z of the applicator element.

The lower parts of the teeth are here joined.

The lower parts of the teeth of one of the series do not necessarily have to extend in the same direction as those of the teeth of the other series.

The base bearing the teeth has been shown in the previous examples with a rectilinear shape.

Of course, it is not beyond the scope of the present invention when the base has a curved shape, for example around an axis parallel to the geometric separation surface and substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the teeth, as shown in FIG. figure 17 , or curved around an axis such as the Y axis of the figure 1 , perpendicular to the geometric separation surface S and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the teeth, as illustrated in FIG. figure 18 .

On the figure 17 , the geometric separation surface is a generator cylinder portion perpendicular to the plane of this figure and a director constituted by a portion of a circle.

The geometric separation surface may be cylindrical, of director constituted by a curve, as in the example of the figure 17 , or by a broken line, zigzag in a variant not illustrated.

In the example of the figure 18 , the base is curved with a surface C on which are arranged the teeth, concave towards the teeth while in the example of the figure 19 the base is curved with a surface C 'on which the teeth are arranged, convex towards the teeth.

A tooth located on one side of the geometric separation surface does not necessarily have the same general shape as a tooth located on the other side of the geometric separation surface and the application element may comprise a first series teeth of a given type located on one side of the geometric separation surface and a second series of teeth on the other side of the geometrical surface of separation, the teeth of the second series being arranged alternately with the teeth of the first series, and a completely different type.

The application element 70 represented on the figure 20 comprises a row of teeth 71 having a first series of teeth 71a and a second series of teeth 71b, the teeth 71a having bases which are on one side of a geometric separation surface here constituted by a median plane of symmetry for the base and the teeth 71b having bases which are located on the other side of this median plane.

The bases of the teeth 71a and 71b extend alternately on either side of the geometric separation surface.

The teeth 71a are inclined rearwardly while the teeth 71b are inclined forwards, the teeth 71a and 71b crossing when the comb is viewed from the side as on the figure 20 .

The teeth 71a and 71b define between them, at their upper part, interstices or V grooves 73 whose bottom 74 is at a relatively large distance from the base 75.

The teeth 71a and 71b are joined or are substantially joined at their intersections.

We have shown on the figure 21 an applicator element 90 having a first set of teeth 91a and a second set of teeth 91b, the teeth 91a having their base on one side of a geometric separation surface and the teeth 91b having their base located on the other side; next to this geometrical separation surface, the teeth 91b being arranged alternately with the teeth 91a.

The consecutive teeth 91a and 91b have relatively broad bases that converge substantially towards their free end when the applicator element 90 is viewed from the side.

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

The teeth 91a have a front face 92 concave forwards and a rear face 93 convex towards the rear.

The teeth 91b have a front face convex towards the front and a rear face 95 substantially flat and perpendicular to the axis Z of the comb.

The rear faces 95 of the teeth 91b and the front faces 92 of the teeth 91a form between them, when the comb is viewed from the side, grooves 96 whose bottom 97 is at a non-zero distance from the base 98.

The application element represented on the figure 21 also has notches 99 on the base, arranged between adjacent teeth on the same side of the geometric separation surface.

The Figures 32 and 35 represent applicators whose configuration is similar to that of the applicator shown in FIG. figure 21 .

The application element has consecutive teeth having relatively broad bases and converging substantially towards their free end.

On the figure 32 , the teeth 322 comprise hollow portions H extending along their length, openings O being disposed on at least one side of each tooth to access the hollow portion.

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

The applicator shown on the figure 35 has flocked teeth 352.

The base of the application element on which the teeth are arranged can also be flocked.

The material used to perform the flocking may be a coating deposited on the teeth or may be incorporated directly into the material used to make the teeth.

Variations of the application set described in figure 1 are represented on the Figures 23 and 24 .

The figure 23 represents an application system in which the product is contained in a container 230 in the form of a tube.

This tube is preferably made of a flexible material.

The user can distribute the product on the application element by compressing the tube.

Other dispensers may also be used to dispense the product onto the applicator element, such as a pump dispenser for example.

The application set represented on the figure 24 comprises a container 240 containing a product solid bread 245.

To load the applicator, the application element is moved through this product 245.

The product solid bread can be moistened before the application member is brought into contact with it or the application element can be moistened and then brought into contact with the non-moistened product.

In the achievements of Figures 23 and 24 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 of the applicator can be used as a handle.

The figure 25 represents another applicator according to an exemplary implementation of the invention.

The applicator shown on the figure 25 has a tapered tip 255 extending from the distal end of the applicator member 251.

When the applicator member 251 is loaded with product, the distal end 255 also loads product and can serve as eyeliner or can be engaged between insulated eyelashes.

The Figures 26, 26A and 28 schematically represent applicator embodiments in which the applicator element is arranged to be removably attached to the rod.

The application element 261 represented on the Figures 26 and 26A comprises a base 263 on which a core and a row of teeth alternately arranged on opposite sides of the core are arranged.

The base 263 is arranged to be inserted into a connector 260 in the form of a housing made in a distal end portion of the applicator rod 265.

The figure 26A illustrates the insertion of the base 263 of the applicator element in the connector 260.

The housing 261 defines a slot 262 at the front end of the rod to allow passage of the bases and a portion of the core of the applicator member.

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

This type of assembly makes it possible to produce the applicator element in an elastomeric material and the rod 265 in a rigid or semi-rigid plastic.

As shown on Figures 26 and 26A a longitudinal axis of the applicator element 261 extends substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the rod 265.

The applicator element 261 is attached to a distal end of the stem 265 by a portion located between its two opposite ends.

The figure 28 is another embodiment in which the base 283 of the applicator element 281 can be removably attached in a connector housing 280 formed in a distal end portion of the shaft 285.

The housing 280 forms a slot 282 in which the base of the applicator element can be engaged.

Unlike the embodiment shown on the Figures 26 and 26A one end of the applicator element 281 is connected to a distal portion of the rod 285 when the applicator element is inserted into the connector 280.

On the figure 28 the longitudinal axis of the applicator element 281, once inserted in the connector 280, extends substantially in the same direction as the longitudinal axis of the rod 285.

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

The figure 27 represents an applicator having a configuration similar to that of the applicator of the figure 26 .

In the embodiment shown on the figure 27 , the base 273 is made by molding in one piece with the rod 275.

The teeth 276 can also be made in one piece by molding with the base 273 and the rod 275.

The application element represented on the figure 29 comprises a base 293 having a polygonal cross section.

The base 293 has a plurality of faces.

A row of consecutive teeth arranged alternately on opposite sides of a geometric separation surface is disposed on each of the faces of the base 293.

The geometric separation surface corresponds substantially to a median plane of a face on which the row is disposed.

The width of each face of the base is substantially equal to the total depth of a row of teeth.

The width of the base is thus substantially equal to the depth of two consecutive teeth and the outer surfaces of the teeth are substantially flush with the edges of the face on which the teeth are arranged.

Consecutive teeth of each row have substantially contiguous portions and in the embodiment shown the consecutive teeth touch at the base of the teeth at one point.

The rows of consecutive teeth are arranged relative to each other so that the series of teeth disposed along the edge of one of the faces have substantially contiguous portions with the teeth disposed along the same edge of the adjacent face. .

As for each row of teeth disposed on the same face, the teeth disposed along the same edge on adjacent faces have bases whose corners touch each other.

We have shown on the figure 29A a cross-section taken according to the cut line AA of the figure 29 .

The figure 30 represents an application element similar to that shown on the figure 29 , except that the base 303 has a non-polygonal cross-section.

In the embodiment shown, the non-polygonal cross section is substantially circular.

A plurality of rows of teeth are disposed about the base 303 at selected angular positions such that adjacent rows are disposed relative to each other in a manner similar to that described with reference to the present invention. figure 29 .

The teeth of each series of teeth of each row of consecutive teeth have corners of their base in contact with the teeth of the adjacent series.

Each row of teeth has consecutive teeth arranged alternately on opposite sides of a geometric separation surface.

The figure 31 is a detailed view from above of a possible configuration for a row of consecutive teeth, according to an exemplary implementation of the invention.

The teeth of the row of consecutively adjacent consecutive teeth which is shown, arranged alternately, are arranged such that on at least one outer face of the row, the bases of adjacent teeth 400 are spaced apart from each other.

At least one series of adjacent teeth 400 disposed on the same side of the geometric separation surface has faces 402 directed towards a portion of the applicator element located on the opposite side of the geometric separation surface, the faces 402 being arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the applicator element.

We have shown on the figure 33 , an application element according to another example of implementation of the invention

This applicator element comprises a row of teeth arranged alternately at least partially on opposite sides of a geometric separation surface.

The row of teeth has pairs of consecutive teeth 332.

Each tooth of a pair is disposed on one side of the geometric separation surface and has a relatively large portion of its length that is substantially contiguous with the other tooth of that pair.

The free ends of the teeth of a pair of teeth form between them a small notch 336 capable of gripping the eyelashes during the application of the product.

The pairs of teeth are spaced apart from each other along the application element.

As indicated above, the application member may have a curved longitudinal axis Z with a convex surface on which the teeth are disposed, as shown in FIG. figure 34 .

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

An example of a flexible application element is shown on the figure 34 .

The convex surface causes the teeth to diverge from each other, allowing a relatively large amount of product to be contained between adjacent and consecutive teeth.

In addition, the applicator shown on the figure 34 may improve the loading of the product on the teeth when the application element is extracted through a wiper member.

This is because the force exerted by the wiper member on the applicator element tends to give it a rectilinear shape and causes the teeth to get closer, especially to a median (mid-length) region of the application element.

As the teeth get closer, the product can be forced through them to the bases and the base, allowing the applicator element to hold a relatively large amount of product.

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

The application element may comprise, on the same side of the geometric separation surface, teeth of different geometry, for example of different height.

The teeth may have a height that varies as a function of the axial positioning on the application element, for example an increasing height, decreasing, decreasing and increasing or increasing and decreasing, from front to rear.

The teeth and / or the base may have a surface condition to increase the amount of product that the application element is loaded; the teeth and / or the base may thus comprise capillary grooves or flocking.

An example of flocked teeth is shown on the figure 35 .

The teeth may be surface treated by abrasion, for example forming forks at the end of the teeth.

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 and / or the base and / or other parts of the application element may be covered with a coating such as a varnish for example, to give them a better glide on the eyelashes or otherwise more roughness.

Sliding agents may also be incorporated into the material for making the teeth.

The application element, and in particular the teeth, may also comprise active agents such as preservatives, moisture absorbers, metal salts, in particular of copper, magnetic particles, and other suitable similar materials intended to diffuse into the product when this last is deposited on the application element.

These assets may be included in the material used to make the applicator element or may be deposited on its surface or both.

In addition, products can be used to modify the surface tension of the application element in contact with moisture, these products being integrated with the material (s) used to make the teeth or the base or other parts of the application element or deposited in the form of a coating.

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

Preferably, the length of a row of consecutive teeth is between 10 and 45 mm, more preferably between 15 and 28 mm and more preferably between 20 and 26 mm approximately.

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

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

Claims (68)

1. A device for storing and applying a product to the eyelashes or eyebrows, said device being of the type including a container (11) to contain the product and an applicator (12) comprising an applicator element, the applicator element including at least one row of consecutive teeth (15a, 15b; 30a, 30b; 41a, 41b; 193a, 193b; 61a, 61b; 71a, 71b; 91a, 91b; 54a, 54b) positioned alternating at least partially on either side of a geometric separating surface (S), characterized in that at least two consecutive teeth of the row have substantially joined parts (23) that touch and/or overlap each other an form an interstice (28), preferably in the form of an indentation.
2. device according to claim 1, characterized in that the substantially joined parts of said two consecutive teeth comprise the roots of the teeth.
3. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that the roots touch.
4. The device according to one of claims 2 and 3, characterized the roots overlap.
5. The device according to claim 4, characterized in that the roots overlap when the applicator element is seen from the side.
6. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that the substantially joined parts touch.
7. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that the substantially joined parts overlap.
8. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that two contiguous teeth positioned on the same side of the geometric separating surface have roots that are spaced apart.
9. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spacing (c) between the roots of two consecutive teeth (15a) positioned on a same side of said geometric separating surface is greater than or equal to half of the width of the tooth (15b) offset from the other side of said geometric separating surface (S).
10. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that teeth connect to each other at a base portion.
11. The device according to claim 10, characterized in that said interstice is an indentation and in that a lower end of said indentation is spaced by a certain distance from an upper surface of the base portion.
12. The device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the bottom (29) of the indentation (28) is situated, when the applicator element is observed from the side, at a distance (d) from the base portion greater than or equal to 0.2 mm.
13. The device according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that teeth are made by molding in a single piece with the base portion, preferably from a plastic material.
14. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one tooth includes a root that is deeper than it is wide, the depth being measured in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the applicator element and the width being measured in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.
15. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the teeth are deeper than the interval separating two consecutive teeth positioned on the same side of said geometric separating surface.
16. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the applicator includes a stem, the applicator element being arranged to be connected to the stem.
17. The device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the applicator element has two substantially opposite ends and in that part of the applicator element is connected to a distal end part of the stem.
18. The device according to one of claims 16 and 17, characterized in that the stem is substantially flat.
19. The device according to any one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that the applicator element is molded in a single piece with the stem.
20. The device according to any one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that the applicator element is removably fastened to the stem.
21. The device according to claim 20, characterized in that the stem includes a distal end part forming a connector to receive the applicator element.
22. The device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the connector defines a slot arranged to receive the applicator element.
23. The device according to claim 21, characterized in that the applicator element has two substantially opposite ends and in that one of the ends is connected to a distal end part of the stem.
24. The device according to claim 21, characterized in that the applicator element has two substantially opposite ends and a portion situated between those two ends connected to a distal end part of the stem.
25. The device according to any one of claims 16 to 24, characterized in that the applicator element has a longitudinal axis that extends while forming an angle with the longitudinal axis of the stem or parallel thereto.
26. The device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the applicator element as a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the stem.
27. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it includes sealing means capable of sealably closing the container.
28. The device according to any one of claims 16 to 26 and claim 27, characterized in the sealing means are made in a single piece with the stem.
29. The device according to any one of claims 16 to 28, characterized in that the stem is secured to a cap closing the container.
30. The device according to claim 16 and optionally any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the applicator element is made from a plastic material more flexible than that used to produce the stem of the applicator.
31. The device according to claim 16 and optionally any one of claims 1 to 29, characterized in that the applicator element is made from a plastic material harder than that used to produce the stem of the applicator.
32. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the height of the teeth is comprised between approximately 0.5 and 15 mm, and preferably between approximately 7 and 13 mm.
33. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, the teeth being connected to each other at a base portion, characterized in that the total height of the teeth is approximately 3 mm and in that the bottom of said interstice is situated at a distance d from the base portion equal to approximately 2 mm.
34. The device according any one of the preceding claims, the teeth connecting to each other at a base portion, characterized in that said geometric separating surface (S) is a median plane for the base portion.
35. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said geometric separating surface is a plane.
36. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said geometric separating surface is a joint plane for the molding of the row of teeth, and preferably for the molding of the applicator element.
37. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 34, characterized in that the geometric separating surface is non-planar.
38. The device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the geometric separating surface is pierced.
39. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 34, characterized in that said geometric separating surface is a cylindrical surface whereof the baseline is a curve or a broken line.
40. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it includes at least one notch situated between contiguous teeth situated on the same side of the geometric separating surface.
41. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, the teeth connecting to each other at a base portion, characterized in that the base portion (41) includes at least one notch formed between the roots of contiguous teeth positioned on the same side of the geometric separating surface.
42. The device according to claim 41, characterized in that the notch is in fluid communication with the volume defined by said two contiguous teeth and a third tooth positioned on the side opposite the root and situated between said contiguous teeth.
43. The device according to claim 41, characterized in that it includes multiple notches made on one side of the base portion between contiguous teeth positioned on the same side of the base portion.
44. The device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the notches are made on two substantially opposite sides of the base portion between contiguous teeth situated on either side of the base portion.
45. The devise according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the roots of the teeth (15a, 15b; 61a, 61b) have front (21; 62, 63) and/or rear (22) surfaces perpendicular to the axis (Z) of the applicator element forming an acute or obtuse angle therewith.
46. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, the teeth being connected to each other at a base portion, characterized in that the row of teeth includes a first series of teeth whereof the front and/or rear surfaces are inclined relative to the axis of the base portion and a second series of teeth whereof the front and/or rear surfaces are inclined differently from those of the teeth of the first series relative to the axis of the base portion, the teeth of the first series and those of the second series being arranged alternating at least partially on either side of the geometric separating surface.
47. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the teeth include an upper part (FIG. 7) in the same axis as their root.
48. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the teeth that are at least partially offset alternating on either side of the geometric separating surface include upper parts respectively oriented toward the front and toward the rear (FIG. 8).
49. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that two contiguous teeth overlap when the applicator element is observed in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the base portion (FIG. 11).
50. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two contiguous teeth have surfaces extending in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the applicator element and overlapping.
51. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two teeth have surfaces extending in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the applicator element and overlapping.
52. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the applicator element includes a first series of teeth situated on one side of a geometric separating surface an a second series of teeth situated on the other side of that geometric separating surface, alternating with the teeth of the first series, the teeth of the first series having a front surface (92), rear surface, respectively, concave toward the front, toward the rear, respectively, and the teeth of the second series having their front surface (94), rear surface, respectively, convex toward the front, toward the rear, respectively.
53. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the applicator element includes a first series of teeth situated on one side of the geometric separating surface and a second series of teeth situated on the other side of the geometric separating surface, alternating with the teeth of the first series, the teeth of the first series having their front surface (92), rear surface, respectively, concave or convex toward the front, toward the rear, respectively, the teeth of the second series having their rear surface (95), front surface, respectively, planar.
54. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that when the applicator element is observed in its axis, two consecutive teeth have diverging free ends (FIG. 9).
55. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 53, characterized in that when the applicator element is observed in its axis, two consecutive teeth have converging free ends.
56. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 53, characterized in that when the applicator element is observed in its axis (Z), two consecutive teeth have substantially parallel free ends (132).
57. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 53, characterized in that when the applicator element is observed in its axis, two consecutive teeth have intersecting free ends (FIG. 10).
58. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the height of the teeth is variable.
59. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the applicator element only includes a single row of teeth.
60. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 58, characterized in that the applicator element includes several rows of teeth.
61. The device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the teeth are positioned at different angular positions around a base portion of the applicator element.
62. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, the teeth connecting to each other at a base portion, characterized in that the base portion (192) has a polygonal or non-polygonal transverse section, and in that the applicator element includes at least one row teeth (193a, 193b) extending substantially in the extension of one side (191) of the base portion in the case of a polygonal section or connecting substantially tangentially to the base portion in the case of a non-polygonale section.
63. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 61, characterized in that it includes at least one row of teeth extending substantially radially from the base portion.
64. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the applicator element includes two parts (51, 52) made with a film hinge and assembled against one another.
65. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container includes a wringing member, preferably déformable, preferably made up of a foam block or an elastomer lip.
66. The device according any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a plurality of consecutive teeth have substantially joined parts and in that a plurality of interstices are formed between the plurality of consecutive teeth.
67. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that substantially joined parts of at least two consecutive teeth are arranged to prevent an eyelash from moving freely between them.
68. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the substantially joined parts are arranged to grip an eyelash passing between them.

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