EP1175847A1 - Applicator for applying a product on keratinous fibres - Google Patents

Abstract

A cosmetic product applicator (1) has bristles set in two rows (2, 3) in a non-twisted head (4), the rows being set so they cross one another at a distance from their free ends when viewed along the head's axis (X). A cosmetic product applicator (1) has bristles set in two rows (2, 3) in a non-twisted head (4), the rows being set so they cross one another at a distance from their free ends when viewed along the head's axis (X). The two rows of tufts can be parallel or not, and at least some of the bristles can be in tufts, preferably with 5 - 50 bristles in each. The bristles are of natural or synthetic materials and preferably 1 - 10 mm long.

Description

The present invention relates to an applicator for applying a product to keratin fibers, in particular the eyelashes or the eyebrows. The invention relates also to an assembly of the type comprising a container for containing a reserve of product and such an applicator mounted at the end of a rod provided with a gripping element. A wiping member may possibly be provided in the container for, during the extraction of the application element, distribute the product on the applicator, and / or remove any excess product.

We know packaging and application devices in which the application element consists of an applicator of the comb type, having at minus a row of teeth, capable of loading product when the applicator is extracted from the container containing the product.

In the field of makeup, the implantation of teeth or hair on a applicator is a determining parameter for the application of the product, in particular on the eyelashes. At each implantation, for a product with a given rheology, matches a given makeup. So, depending on the implantation of the teeth or hair, makeup will be light, charged, curling, or lengthening, etc.

Obviously there are other parameters influencing the characteristics application, one of the most important probably being the product itself. This results in a need to adapt the applicator to the product according to the type of makeup desired.

Comb-type applicators are generally obtained entirely from molding, in particular of a thermoplastic material. One of the problems that can landing with such combs is due to the difficulty of multiplying types implantation of teeth, and therefore therefore, to multiply the types of makeup obtainable. Indeed, each new implantation of the teeth, in view obtaining a new make-up requires the use of a new mold. Through elsewhere, some types of implantation cannot be easily obtained from molding. In addition, the production of teeth having a small cross section, or having a complex shape, is not without problems.

For makeup eyelashes, we also know brushes type "brushes twisted "comprising a core made up of two branches of a metallic wire twisted, so as to form helical turns. Before the stage of twist the wire, we introduce between its two branches, a layer of hair. After complete twisting, the bristles are tightened radially between the two branches twisted wire. The final shape of the brush is then obtained by clipping the brush to the desired profile according to the desired makeup.

An inherent disadvantage of applicators of the aforementioned type is that the amount of product taken, even after spinning, is often greater than the quantity required for application. As a result, there is residual product, likely to dry out between two applications.

In addition, and despite the considerable progress made in recent years, playing in particular on the type of hair, on their organization, on their density on the diameter of the bristles, or on the profile of the brush, certain implantations do not still cannot be obtained with twisted brush technology. The limits of the process are inherent in the fact that, whatever happens, the hairs must follow, at least at their base, the helical movement of the wire which supports.

Also, is there a need for applicators having bristles, or tufts bristles, implanted in new configurations, in order to obtain new types of makeup.

It is in particular an object of the invention to produce an applicator allowing good spreading of the product on the fibers to be treated, and in addition, a significant elongation and bending of said fibers.

It is another object of the invention to produce such an applicator which is simple of use, and economical to achieve.

According to the invention, these objects are achieved by producing an applicator for the application of a product to keratin fibers, in particular the eyelashes or the eyebrows, comprising an arrangement of hairs added to a non-support twisted, and suitable for applying said product, characterized in that said arrangement is formed by at least a first group of hairs arranged according to a first layer, and at least a second group of hairs, arranged in a second layer, said arrangement being such that the bristles of the first layer are cross with the hairs of the second layer when the applicator is observed transversely to its longitudinal axis.

According to the invention, the hairs can physically touch each other at the place where they are cross, or cross at a distance from each other, the main thing is that when a fiber is engaged with the applicator, transversely to its axis, it can be supported between two bristles, separated according to a direction transverse to the X axis, from a distance which may be substantially zero, and in any event, less than the length of the fiber, and crossing each other by compared to each other.

Within the meaning of the present invention, the term "reported" translates the fact that the hairs are manufactured separately, upstream of the manufacturing process the applicator, then implanted on the applicator, during the manufacture of the support, or after manufacture of the latter.

Thus, the bristles can be obtained in a conventional manner by extrusion in a die, then by cutting to the required length. The hairs can also subject to various treatments, including chemical, thermal or mechanical. Then, they are installed on the support, especially during the molding of the latter, by overmolding or over-injecting the support on the bristles one end is arranged in the mold. Generally, the support consists of a more or less rigid thermoplastic material. Alternatively, the hairs can be added after molding the support, in particular by gluing, hot or cold stamping, stamping, rolling, welding or stapling.

The bristles can be made of a material identical or different from the material forming the support. For example, the bristles can be made of polyamide 6, 6-6, 6-10, 6-11, or 6-12. As for the support, it can be in particular polyethylene, polypropylene, or elastomer.

The product targeted by the invention is in particular a composition of mascara, more or less viscous consistency. Such a composition, when it is applied to the eyelashes, aims in particular to color the latter and / or to lengthen them, and / or bending them. It can also have a treating effect.

According to one embodiment, the bristles are arranged, at least in part, at the interior of said first and second plies in the form of tufts. In this case, such a tuft can consist of 2 to 200 hairs, preferably 4 to 100 hairs, and more particularly from 5 to 50 hairs.

According to a very advantageous characteristic of the invention, the hairs of said first and second layers cross at a distance from their free end (s). Thus, the portions of hair located between the crossing point and the free end hairs, define, due to the crossed orientation of the hairs, notches in “V” shape able to grip the eyelashes and to promote the spreading of the product on the eyelashes, when the applicator, in charge of product, is engaged with these last. In addition, such a "grip" allows the spreading of the product until the extreme tip of the eyelashes, and thereby gives the illusion of longer eyelashes. In addition, in extending the application movement by a rotational movement around the axis of the applicator, the eyelashes thus gripped, will adopt a movement of bending corresponding to the rotational movement of the applicator.

In some embodiments, it may be desirable that, in addition, the hairs of the first layer cross with the hairs of the second layer, when the applicator is observed along its longitudinal axis. In other words, according to this characteristic, in addition to the cross orientation of the hairs of a sheet by relative to the hairs of the other layer, the layers themselves, cross one by compared to each other.

According to one embodiment, said first and second plies are parallel to each other. Thus, the hairs or tufts of hairs of a tablecloth are implanted on the support along an implantation line parallel to the line implantation of hairs or tufts of hairs from the other layer.

The first and second layers can be arranged at a distance from one of the other. However, according to a preferred embodiment, said first and second layers are in contact with each other. Such a configuration facilitates the taking charge of the fibers to be treated by the V-shaped notches of which it was made state previously.

According to another embodiment, said first and second plies are not parallel to each other. Thus, the hairs or tufts of hairs of a tablecloth are implanted on the support along an implantation line not parallel to the line implantation of hairs or tufts of hairs from the other layer.

In addition, the first and second layers can be arranged respectively in a plane perpendicular to a plane of implantation of the hairs on the support.

Alternatively, said first and second plies can be arranged respectively in an oblique plane with respect to the implantation plane of the bristles on the support.

Alternatively again, one of the layers can be arranged in a plane perpendicular to the plane of implantation of the hairs, while the other is arranged in an oblique plane with respect to the implantation plane of the bristles.

Thus, the first and second layers can diverge from each other. In this case, the two layers form an angle between them which preferably is less than 60 °.

Preferably, however, said first and second plies converge one compared to each other. In this configuration, said first and second tablecloths can cross. The first tablecloth then forms with the second tablecloths an angle of intersection, which can vary between approximately 15 ° and approximately 165 °. Preferably, when the first and second layers cross, they cross away from the free end of the hairs they contain. Of this way, are formed "V", at the bottom of which the eyelashes are supported.

Where appropriate, the applicator may further comprise a third group of hairs arranged in a third layer. According to a particular provision of a applicator with three plies, two plies are parallel to each other, at least one additional tablecloth being arranged so that it intersects with one and / or the other of the two sheets parallel to each other.

According to an advantageous arrangement of the invention, inside said layers, the hairs are parallel to each other. Alternatively, some hairs from the tablecloth can be in a first orientation inside the tablecloth, while other hairs of the same layer are of a different orientation.

Similarly, inside the sheets, the hairs can be of constant density on the entire length of the tablecloth or of variable density. So it is possible in particular to provide in the vicinity of the free end of the applicator a zone greater density of hairs so as to promote makeup of the eyelashes from the bottom or from the eyelashes in the corner of the eye.

According to another embodiment, said first and second plies can have heights over at least part of their axial length different. In this way, the hairs of the highest layer are given a more pronounced function of combing and separating the eyelashes.

According to yet another embodiment, at least one of said plies can be of variable height, in particular gradually, over at least one part of its axial length. We can thus adapt the free edge of (said) said layer (s) at the implantation radius of the eyelashes on the eyelids.

According to a particular embodiment, the support consists of at least two parts, in particular connected by a film hinge, and assembled together, in particular by snap-fastening, welding or gluing, so as to form said arrangement of hairs. Such a film hinge can be oriented perpendicular or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the applicator. The parts advantageously have a conformation such that said final arrangement hair is only formed after assembly of these parts. So, and in a fashion advantageous embodiment, a first part carries a first layer of hairs, while the second part carries a second layer of hairs. It's not that by joining these two parts we form the desired final arrangement, that is to say an arrangement with two layers whose hairs cross.

According to another particular embodiment, at least one of said plies crosses the support and extends on either side of the latter. To this end, the support is traversed by a multitude of holes, not perpendicular to the plane implantation of the hairs on (or in) the support. Then the hairs are fixed in drilling, in particular by gluing, hot or cold stamping, stamping, snapping, welding or stapling, etc. We thus obtain from on the other side of the support, two application portions, identical or different, of so as to be able to confer different application characteristics in function of the application portion which is engaged with the fibers to be treat.

To consolidate the implantation of the hairs in the support, the hairs can have asperities, at least on the part intended to be installed in the support. This is advantageous, especially when the support and the bristles are made of different materials, not compatible with each other, that is to say, unsuitable for create physicochemical bonds between them, in particular by thermofusion, during over-injection or over-molding of the support around the bristles.

In the plane of the sheet which contains them, the hairs are inclined relative to the support plane at an angle which can vary between about 30 ° and about 150 °.

The angle formed by the hairs of a tablecloth is different from the angle formed by the hairs on the other side so that, when the applicator is viewed from the side, the hairs of one layer cross with respect to the hairs of the other layer. Of preferably, the hairs of a tablecloth are oriented at an angle of less than 90 ° by relative to the support, while the hairs of the other ply are oriented in a angle of more than 90 ° in relation to the support installation plan. Of preferably the hairs of a tablecloth are inclined symmetrically with respect to to the hairs of the other tablecloth. Thus, the hairs of a tablecloth can be oriented at 90 ° -η, while the bristles of the other layer will preferably be oriented at an angle of 90 ° + η, η being preferably at most equal to 60 °. This last characteristic is however in no case compulsory.

As regards the nature of the bristles, these can be chosen from among the natural or synthetic bristles, in particular among polyethylene bristles, in polypropylene, ethylene / propylene copolymer, polyamide, polyester, polyvinyl chloride, polytetrafluoroethylene (teflon), polyethylene terephthalate or thermoplastic elastomer. Device hair can consist of bristles with variable cross-section, for example hollow, flat or polygonal and / or elastomer bristles, and / or bristles having at least one capillary groove, and / or hair twisted around their longitudinal axis, to the right or on the left, and / or bristles whose ends have been ground, and / or bristles the free ends of which are rounded, tapered, fork-shaped, head shaped pins or hooks, and / or bristles of different lengths, and / or bristles incorporating charges, in particular bacteriostatic, magnetic, or capable of improve sliding, and / or flocked bristles, or a mixture of such bristles.

Agents intended to improve the sliding of the hairs on the fibers to be treated can be chosen from graphite, molybdenum disulphide or polytetrafluoroethylene (teflon).

Advantageously, bristles are chosen whose cross section falls within a circle with a diameter of between about 6/100 ^th of a mm and about 30/100 ^th of a mm, and preferably between 8/100 ^th of a mm and 20/100 ^th of mm.

For example, the apparent length of the bristles, i.e. the length between the layout plan on the support and the free end of the bristles, may be between approximately 0.5 mm and approximately 20 mm, and preferably, between 1 mm and 10 mm.

According to a very advantageous characteristic of the invention, the applicator can be obtained by overmolding or over-injection of the support in an appropriate material around one of the ends of said hairs. Depending on the characteristics of desired makeup, the support can be made of a material rigid, semi-rigid or flexible thermoplastic, for example an elastomer having an appropriate flexural module.

The applicator may be integral with a gripping element to which it is connected directly or by means of a rod.

The invention also relates to a set of application of a product, especially cosmetic, on the eyelashes or the eyebrows, comprising a container for contain a reserve of product, possibly provided with a wiping member, and an applicator as defined above, capable of being arranged, so removable, on the container, said applicator comprising a gripping element. A suitable wiper member is described, for example in document FR-A-2 745,272.

The application assembly of the invention can be used, in particular, for the makeup and / or eyelash or eyebrow treatment.

• la figure 1 est une vue schématique en coupe axiale d'un ensemble de conditionnement et d'application pourvu d'un applicateur 1, conforme à la présente invention ;
• la figure 2a est une vue latérale d'un applicateur conforme à l'invention selon un premier mode de réalisation ;
• les figures 2b à 2d représentent une vue en coupe transversale de l'applicateur de la figure 2a, ainsi que de deux variantes du mode de réalisation de la figure 2a ;
• les figures 3a et 3b illustrent, respectivement des vues latérale et axiale d'un autre mode de réalisation d'un applicateur conforme à l'invention ;
• la figure 4 est une vue latérale d'un autre mode de réalisation d'un applicateur conforme à l'invention ;
• les figures 5a à 5d illustrent, respectivement des vues latérale et axiale d'autres modes de réalisation encore de l'invention ,
• les figures 6a et 6b montrent une vue schématique vues latérale et axiale d'un autre mode de réalisation encore de l'invention ;
• les figures 7a à 7c sont relatives à encore d'autres modes de réalisation de l'invention ;
• les figures 8a et 8b illustrent un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
• la figure 9 est une vue partielle en perspective illustrant une implantation particulière des poils dans le support ;
• les figures 10a à 10f illustrent divers modes d'implantation des poils sur le support de l'applicateur ;
• la figure 11 illustre, de manière schématique, la prise en charge des cils par les poils d'un applicateur conforme à l'invention ;
• les figures 12, 13a et 13b illustrent différentes vues en perspective et en section transversale d'un applicateur, conforme à un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention, et réalisé en deux parties ; et
• les figures 14a et 14b sont des représentations schématiques d'un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention.

The invention will be better understood on reading the detailed description which follows, of nonlimiting examples of implementation, and on examining the appended drawing in which:

• Figure 1 is a schematic view in axial section of a packaging and application assembly provided with an applicator 1, according to the present invention;
• Figure 2a is a side view of an applicator according to the invention according to a first embodiment;
• Figures 2b to 2d show a cross-sectional view of the applicator of Figure 2a, as well as two variants of the embodiment of Figure 2a;
• Figures 3a and 3b illustrate, respectively side and axial views of another embodiment of an applicator according to the invention;
• Figure 4 is a side view of another embodiment of an applicator according to the invention;
• FIGS. 5a to 5d illustrate, respectively, side and axial views of still other embodiments of the invention,
• Figures 6a and 6b show a schematic side and axial view of yet another embodiment of the invention;
• Figures 7a to 7c relate to yet other embodiments of the invention;
• Figures 8a and 8b illustrate another embodiment of the invention;
• Figure 9 is a partial perspective view illustrating a particular location of the bristles in the support;
• Figures 10a to 10f illustrate various modes of implantation of the bristles on the support of the applicator;
• FIG. 11 schematically illustrates the handling of the eyelashes by the bristles of an applicator according to the invention;
• Figures 12, 13a and 13b illustrate different perspective views and in cross section of an applicator, according to another embodiment of the invention, and produced in two parts; and
• Figures 14a and 14b are schematic representations of another embodiment of the invention.

An application assembly A provided with an applicator 1 according to the invention is shown in Figure 1. This set includes a container 11 containing a reserve of a cosmetic and / or treatment M product for eyelashes or eyebrows, for example a composition of mascara, of more or less consistency viscous.

The container 11 is provided with a threaded neck 30 to which is fixed so removable, an applicator 1 according to the invention. Applicator 1 is connected to a gripping sleeve 10 by means of a rod 10a, of axis X. The sleeve gripping 10 further constitutes a closure cap for the container, arranged to be screwed onto the neck 30. The threaded neck 30 defines an orifice 11a, crossed, in storage position, by the rod 10a.

The orifice 11a of the container 11 is provided internally with a wiping member 19 consisting of a block of elastically deformable foam, with open cells or semi-open, inserted into an inner portion 30a of the neck 30. The block of foam 19 has a central passage 19a, capable of being crossed by the applicator 1 and by a portion of the rod 10a of which it is integral. The passage 19a allows, when extracting the applicator from the container, to spread the product M between (and on) the hairs of the applicator 1 and to remove any excess of product M.

According to a variant not shown, the wiper may consist of a lip annular formed by a sleeve, of elastomeric material or not, and mounted in the neck of the container 11.

The rod 10a can be rigid or semi-rigid. It was represented rectilinear but it could, alternatively, be curved.

With reference to the figures, 2a to 2d, general principles of the invention.

Thus, the applicator 1 illustrated in FIG. 2a comprises a support 4 of shape elongated, extending along the longitudinal axis X. The support 4 has a plane implantation 5 on which are fixed first and second groups P, S of bristles reported 2, 3, arranged in the form of two flat sheets. Support 4 comprises two portions of front ends 4a and rear 4b. They have a height corresponding substantially to the height of the neighboring hairs. The part front 4a is rounded, so as to eliminate any angle which, on application, could hurt the eye. The rear portion 4b is connected to a first end of the rod 10a. The second end of the rod 10a is integral with the grip sleeve 10 (not shown in Figure 2a).

Each group of bristles 2, 3 is arranged respectively in a first and a second layer P, S. the hairs inside each layer P, S, are arranged so that when the applicator is seen transversely to the X axis, as shown in Figure 2a, the bristles 2 of the first ply P intersect with the bristles 3 of the second layer S.

Figure 2b illustrates, in cross section along the plane II-II of Figure 2a, a first preferred embodiment of an applicator 1 for the application of a product, especially a mascara, on the eyelashes or eyebrows. According to Figure 2a, the first ply P formed by the bristles 2, is parallel to the ply formed by the bristles 3, the bristles of the first layer P substantially touching the bristles of the second layer S. In other words, the distance separating the two layers P and S is substantially zero.

FIG. 2c illustrates an arrangement of the layers P, S similar to the arrangement of the layers of Figure 2b, with the difference that the layers P, S are arranged at distance from each other. Thus, the bristles 2 of the first ply P are not in contact with the bristles 3 of the second layer S. As an indication, the distance separating the two layers can be of the order of 1 mm to 1.5 mm.

As shown in Figure 2d, the plane containing the first sheet P diverges from the plane containing the second layer S. It should be noted that, according to the embodiment considered, at the plane 5 of the support, the bases of the hairs of the first layer P are located at a distance from the bases of the bristles 3 of the second layer S. It is understood that the bases of the bristles 2, 3 first and second layers P, S could be joined at the plane 5.

FIGS. 3a and 3b show an embodiment according to which two plies of bristles P, S are parallel, arranged at a distance d1 from one another and having different heights H ₁ , H ₂ . Thus, the first ply P has a constant height H ₁ , less than the height H ₂ of the second ply S. Such an arrangement promotes good separation of the eyelashes, when applying the product. The bristles 2, 3 are implanted here on the implantation plane 5, equidistantly with intervals d. We see that the bristles 2 of the first ply P are implanted on the implantation plane 5 at an angle β ₁ , different from the implantation angle β ₂ of the bristles 3 of the second ply S. Advantageously, said angles β ₁ , β ₂ are between 30 ° and 150 °. Preferably, the angle β ₁ is less than 90 ° and the angle β ₂ equal to or greater than 90 °, or vice versa. According to a particular example, β ₁ is of the order of 70 °, while, β ₂ is of the order of 110 °, so that the bristles 2 of the ply P form an angle of about 40 ° with the hairs 3 of the tablecloth S.

It is understood, that the layers P, S can alternatively be implanted according to the arrangements illustrated in Figures 2b, 2d and 7b.

The plies P, S formed on the applicator illustrated in FIG. 4, have a variable height H, gradually increasing from the free end 4a of the applicator in the direction of the rod 10a. The profile defined by the free end of the bristles 2, 3 can be straight or curved, in particular concave or convex.

According to another embodiment of the invention, Figures 5a to 5d show, similarly to FIGS. 2a to 2d and 7b, an applicator 1 comprising, instead of isolated bristles, tufts T of bristles 2, 3. Thus, a first layer P is defined by tufts of bristles 2, while a second ply S is defined by tufts of bristles 3. Such a tuft T of bristles 2, 3 can consist of 2 to 200 hairs, preferably 4 to 100 hairs, and more especially 5 to 50 hairs.

FIGS. 6a and 6b illustrate, in more detail, a mode of implantation on the support 5 of two layers P, S of bristles 2, 3, along the same implantation line /. The layers P and S are oriented in a divergent manner. A divergence angle α is formed between the two layers. The angle α can advantageously vary between 5 ° and 45 °. In the illustrated embodiment, one of the plies P is in a plane perpendicular to the plane 5 of the support 4. The other ply S is in an oblique plane relative to the plane 5 of implantation of the bristles on the support. The angles β ₁ and β ₂ of orientation of the bristles 2, 3 inside each of the layers P, S, are as defined above.

FIGS. 7a to 7c illustrate an applicator 1 comprising an implantation plane 5, on which first and second plies P, S are implanted. The ply P is in a plane intercepting the plane of the ply S, along a line L parallel to the axis X of the applicator and parallel to the implantation plane 5. The plane of the ply P forms an angle α ₁ with the plane of the sheet S. The layout line l ₁ of the sheet S is parallel to the layout line l ₂ of the sheet P. The respective layout lines are at non-zero distance from one of the other. The line of intersection L is located at a distance from the free end of the bristles 2, 3.

FIG. 7c shows that the free end of the bristles 2, 3 can be shaped at the top pin 7, for example by heat treatment. In general, free ends of hair can be subjected to any kind of treatment mechanical, thermal or chemical.

Figures 8a and 8b illustrate perspective and cross-section views an embodiment according to which the applicator 1 comprises three plies P, R, S. According to this embodiment, two layers P, S are mutually parallel and located obliquely to the layout plan 5. The third ply R is inclined relative to the layout plan 5, so that the plane which contains it, on the one hand, cuts the plane of the sheet P along a line L ' parallel to the X axis and parallel to the layout plan 5, and on the other hand, cuts the plane of the sheet S along a line L, parallel to the line L '. The first line of intersection L 'is located at a distance from the layout plan 5, less than the distance separating layout plan 5 from line L.

FIG. 9 illustrates a partial perspective view of an embodiment similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 7a, with the difference that the individual bristles 2, 3 are replaced by tufts T consisting of plurality of hairs.

FIGS. 10a to 10d illustrate different modes of implantation of the bristles on the implantation plane 5. For this purpose, implantation bores 21 can be arranged in different ways in the support 4. According to FIG. 10a, the bores 21 are arranged along two parallel layout lines l , l ₁ , one of which corresponds to the first ply P. The other corresponds to the second ply S. The two layout lines l, l ₁ are separated by a distance d ₁ . The holes 21 of the layout line l are arranged opposite the holes of the other layout line l ₁ .

According to Figure 10b, the holes 21 are arranged along two parallel layout lines l , l ₁ , one of which corresponds to the first ply P. The other corresponds to the second ply S. The holes 21 of each line d 'siting are arranged opposite the holes in the other siting line. According to this embodiment, the two layout lines are arranged at substantially zero distance from one another.

According to FIG. 10c, the holes 21 are arranged along two parallel layout lines l , l ₁ , one of which corresponds to the first ply P. The other corresponds to the second ply S. The two layout lines l , l ₁ , are separated by a non-zero distance d ₁ . The holes 21 of each layout line are arranged offset from the holes of the other layout line.

According to FIG. 10d, the holes 21 are arranged in two divergent layout lines l , l ₁ in the layout plane 5. The holes 21 in each layout line are arranged facing the holes in the other line d implantation at a distance varying gradually.

FIG. 10e schematically illustrates the arrangement of two layers P, S, installed according to the configuration of FIG. 10d, the layers P, S being obliquely oriented, one with respect to the other, so as to intersect along a line L, not parallel to the layout plan 5 of the layers P and S.

FIG. 10f schematically illustrates the arrangement of two layers P, S, implanted according to the configuration of FIG. 10d, the layers P, S being contained respectively in planes perpendicular to the layout plan 5.

Figure 11 illustrates, schematically, a side view of an applicator of the type illustrated in Figures 2a and 2b. However, it can be seen that the bristles 2, 3 are not arranged on the layout plane 5, equidistantly. Indeed, in the same sheet, P for example, the bases of the bristles 2 are separated by variable distances d ₂ , d ₃ . Thus, two lines of intersection L ₁ , L ₂ are defined, situated at different heights relative to the layout plane 5. The lines L ₁ and L ₂ are located at a distance from the free end of the bristles. The ends of a pair of bristles 2, 3 each forming part of a different ply, thus form “V” forks, in which the eyelashes C are supported, the eyelashes being oriented transversely to the plies P, S. Preferably, the arrangement of the bristles is such that the eyelashes C are inserted into the "V", substantially individually. This allows good separation of the eyelashes to be obtained.

Advantageously, bristles with flexibility are chosen such that when bringing an eyelash into contact with two hairs 2, 3 forming a "V", the latter may bend slightly, as shown in Figure 11 by the lines dashed. Having intersection lines at different heights, and using bristles capable of bending when applying the product, allows to obtain a clear improvement in the smoothing of the product and therefore better power eyelash dye. A more homogeneous product display is also obtained, a better curling of the eyelashes, and a noticeable lengthening of the latter.

According to another embodiment of the invention, as illustrated in the figures 12, 13a and 13b, an applicator 101 comprises a support consisting of a first part 4c and a second part 4d, of elongated shape. The two parts 4c and 4d are arranged on either side of an X axis. The two parts 4c and 4d are interconnected by a film hinge 20 extending in said axis X.

The bristles 2 form a first ply P secured to the part 4c. Similarly, a succession of bristles 3 forms a second ply S secured to the part 4d. The implantation of the bristles 2, 3 on the corresponding part of the support is carried out so that the bristles 2 of the first part 4c form an angle β ₁ with the latter, different from an angle β ₂ formed between the bristles 3 and the second part 4d.

The film hinge 20 makes it possible to manufacture the applicator 101 in the configuration illustrated in Figure 12, and to assemble the two parts 4c, 4d, by pivoting around the X axis of said film hinge, to obtain the applicator in its configuration of use, as shown in Figures 13a and 13b.

Maintaining the folded position of the two parts 4c and 4d, one relative to the other, can be ensured when inserting the applicator into a formed bore by the free end of a rod intended to receive the applicator 101. Alternatively, after bringing the two parts 4c, 4d together by pivoting around the axis of the film hinge 20, the fixing of the first part 4c on the second part 4d can be carried out by means of gluing, welding or snap.

Regarding the configuration of the bristles resulting from the assembly of the two parts, we obtain an applicator of the type described above in reference to Figures 7a and 7b.

Figures 14a and 14b show another embodiment of an applicator 201 comprising two opposite pairs P, S; P ', S' of layers of bristles 2, 3 crossing the support 4 right through. The support 4 thus forms, on two faces located at opposite each other, two layout plans 5, 5 '. It has a front end 4a, as well as a rear end 4b. The latter is connected, as described above to a rod 10a. Support 4 is provided of two groups of holes 21a, 21b passing through the support at angles different. Each bore 21a, 21b is crossed by at least one bristle 2, 3, of so as to form "V" s on either side of the support. We thus define a applicator with two application portions.

The fixing of the bristles in the support 4 can be carried out, as illustrated on the Figure 14b, by stamping the lateral side of the support 4, using a tool suitable 30. Under these conditions, the support must be made of a material, especially suitable thermoplastic, such as polyethylene or polypropylene.

Of course, the invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments which have just been described, and one can in particular combine them particular features of the various examples which have just been described.

The eyelash or eyebrow applicator of the invention is preferably produced by overmolding or over-injection of thermoplastic material, consistency substantially rigid, semi-rigid or made of elastomer, in particular elastomer thermoplastic, of suitable flexibility. Briefly, the hairs, after set to the required length, are taken according to their desired orientation, by example, using pliers. The ends of the bristles beyond the clamp are then introduced into a mold, where the support is formed around the ends bristles during said overmolding or over-injection operation. It is possible to simultaneously form the rod 10a, and possibly all or part of the sleeve grip 10.

Claims (34)

Applicator (1, 101, 201) for applying a product (M) to keratin fibers, in particular the eyelashes or the eyebrows, comprising an arrangement of bristles (2, 3) attached to an untwisted support (4) of axis (X) and able to apply said product, characterized in that said arrangement is formed by at least a first group of bristles (2) arranged in a first ply (P) and at least a second group of bristles ( 3) arranged in a second ply (S), said arrangement being such that the bristles of the first ply (P) cross with the bristles of the second ply (S) when the applicator is observed transversely to the axis (X ). Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the bristles (2, 3) are arranged inside said first and second plies (P, S), at least in part, in the form of tufts (T). Applicator according to claim 2, characterized in that each tuft (T) consists of 2 to 200 bristles (2, 3), preferably from 4 to 100 bristles, and more particularly from 5 to 50 bristles. Applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the bristles (2, 3) of said first and second plies (P, S) intersect at a distance from their free end (s) . Applicator according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that , in addition, the bristles (2) of the first ply (P) cross with the bristles (3) of the second ply (S) when the applicator is observed along the axis (X). Applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that said first and second plies (P, S) are parallel to each other. Applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that said first and second plies (P, S) are arranged at a distance ( d ₁ ) not zero from one another. Applicator according to any one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the said first and second plies (P, S) are in contact with one another. Applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that said first and second plies (P, S) are not parallel to each other. Applicator according to claim 9, characterized in that said first and second plies (P, S) are perpendicular to a plane of implantation (5) of the bristles (2, 3) on the support (4). Applicator according to any one of Claims 1 to 9, characterized in that at least one of the said first and second plies (P, S) is not perpendicular to an implantation plane (5) of the support (4). Applicator according to claim 11, characterized in that said first and second plies (P, S) diverge from each other. Applicator according to claim 11, characterized in that said first and second plies (P, S) converge with respect to each other. Applicator according to claim 13, characterized in that the first ply (P) forms with the second ply (S) an angle (α ₁ ) between 15 ° and 165 °. Applicator according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that said first and second layers (P, S) intersect along at least one line (L, L ₁ , L ₂ ), located at a distance from the free end of the bristles ( 2, 3). Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it also comprises a third group of bristles arranged in a third ply (R). Applicator (1, 101, 301) according to claim 16, characterized in that it comprises two parallel plies (P, S) and at least one ply (R) which intersects with at least one of the parallel plies (P , S). Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that inside the plies (P, R, S) the bristles (2, 3) are parallel to each other. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, inside at least one ply (P, R, S), the bristles (2, 3) are of variable density. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the said first and second plies (P, S) are, over at least part of their length, of different heights (H ₁ , H ₂ ). Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the said plies (P, R, S) is of variable height (H), in particular progressively, over at least part of its length. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support (4) consists of at least two parts, in particular connected by a film hinge (20), and assembled together, in particular by snap-fastening, welding or bonding, so as to form said arrangement of bristles (2, 3). Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the said plies (P, S; P ', S') passes through the support (4) and extends on either side of this latest. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bristles (2, 3) have asperities capable of promoting the anchoring of the bristles on the support (4). Applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 24, characterized in that inside the first ply (P) the bristles (2) form a first angle (β ₁ ) with the support (4), different from '' a second angle (β ₂ ) formed inside the second ply (S) by the bristles (3) relative to said support (4), said angles (β ₁ , β ₂ ) being between 30 ° and 150 °. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bristles (2, 3) are chosen from natural or synthetic bristles, and produced in particular from polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene / propylene copolymer, polyamide, polyester, polyvinyl chloride, polytetrafluoroethylene (teflon), polyethylene terephthalate or thermoplastic elastomer, or a mixture of such bristles. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the material constituting the bristles (2, 3) contains agents intended to improve the slip on the fibers to be treated, such as graphite, molybdenum disulphide or polytetrafluoroethylene (teflon). Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the section of the bristles (2, 3) is inscribed in a circle with a diameter of between approximately 6/100 ^th of a mm and approximately 30/100 ^th of a mm, and preferably between 8/100 ^th of a mm and 20/100 ^th of a mm. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bristles (2, 3) have sections of variable shape. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the apparent length of the bristles (2, 3) is between approximately 0.5 mm and approximately 20 mm, and preferably between 1 mm and 10 mm. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least part of the bristles (2 ', 3') has free rounded, tapered, fork-shaped, pin-head (7) or hook. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is obtained by overmolding or over-injection of the support (4) in a thermoplastic material around said bristles (2, 3). Set of application (A) of a product (M), in particular cosmetic, on eyelashes or eyebrows, comprising a container (11) for containing a reserve of product (M), possibly a wiping member (19), and a applicator (1) according to any one of the claims previous, said applicator being able to be arranged so removable on the container, and comprising a gripping element (10). Use of a set (A) according to the preceding claim for the makeup and / or eyelash or eyebrow treatment.

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