EP1563759A1 - Cosmetic applicator - Google Patents

Abstract

The applicator (3) has a bundle (10) of bristles (11) comprising two types of bristles having different compositions and/or bristles of non circular transversal section and/or non rectilinear bristles. A shaft (6) supports the bundle of bristles. An annular space (20) is arranged between inner surface of a sheath (15) and the shaft, in order to constitute product storage. An independent claim is also included for a device for applying product on nails comprising an applicator.

Description

The present invention relates to cosmetic applicators.

Various applicators for applying a product to the nails, comprising a mixture of hairs, have been proposed. European Patent Application EP-A-0 556 081 describes a brush for applying a nail polish, comprising a mixture of hair of different diameters. Also known by the European patent application EP-A-0 651 955, a brush for applying a nail polish, comprising two kinds of bristles having different mechanical properties so as to form relatively important between the hairs.

In addition, US Pat. No. 4,841,996 describes an applicator device a liquid product, in particular nail polish, comprising reserve means able to store product to feed the bristles when the brush is removed from the container containing the product.

There is a need to further improve the performance of an applicator intended for the application of a product to a region of the body or face, in particular on nails, and the invention aims in particular to meet this need.

• un faisceau de poils comportant au moins deux sortes de poils et/ou des poils de section transversale non circulaire et/ou des poils non rectilignes, notamment ondulés,
• une tige supportant le faisceau de poils,
• une gaine ménageant avec la tige sur au moins une partie de sa longueur un espace permettant de constituer une réserve de produit.

According to one of its aspects, the present invention relates to an applicator for applying a product, particularly to nails, comprising:

• a bundle of bristles comprising at least two kinds of bristles and / or bristles of non-circular cross section and / or non-rectilinear bristles, in particular corrugated bristles,
• a rod supporting the bundle of bristles,
• a sheath forming with the rod over at least a portion of its length a space to constitute a reserve of product.

"Two or more kinds of hair" means hair that may differ by their composition and / or their dimensions and / or their shape, in particular their profile longitudinal and / or cross section.

The presence of at least two kinds of hair and / or hair of non-section circular in the bundle of bristles can increase the capillary retention strength of the bundle of hairs, compared to a bundle of hairs that would be constituted with only one same kind of ordinary hairs, of circular section.

Thanks to the invention, the autonomy of the applicator can be increased without this to the detriment of the quality of application, because of the presence on the one hand of the stock of product formed by the space between at least the sheath and the rod and the the presence on the other hand of at least two kinds of hair and / or hair of non-section circular in the pile bundle. The latter can avoid, thanks to its power of retention by capillarity, that the product contained in the space formed between the sheath and the stem flows too quickly to the area to be treated.

The invention thus makes it possible to regulate the return of the product stored by the applicator and increase the autonomy while maintaining the possibility of achieving a quality makeup.

The composition of the hair bundle may depend on the rheology of the product. The use of a hair mixture can make it relatively easy to adapt applicator to the rheology of the product, for example by playing on the relative proportion of each kind of hair in the beam.

The invention may make it possible, where appropriate, to use formulas less viscous without fear of too much product flow, thanks to the capillary retention provided by the bundle of bristles.

The space arranged to make it possible to constitute a reserve of product is realized so as to allow for example the product to fill the space when the sheath is immersed in the product.

An exhaust air is advantageously produced, for example in the form at least one opening in the sheath. This exhaust air can still be due to the how the sheath is mounted on the applicator. A vent is for example made between the upper edge of the sheath and the portion of the applicator on which the sheath is attached. A vent can still be achieved through the portion of the applicator on which the sheath is climb.

At least two kinds of bundle hairs may each have a number of which represents for example at least 2%, better 5%, of the total number of hairs the applicator, or at least 10%, 20%, 30% or 40%. If applicable, the applicator can have two kinds of hair in substantially equal proportions.

The bundle of bristles may comprise, for example, at least two kinds of bristles whose properties are such that it creates a proliferation of the beam and that it forms multiple intervals between the hairs, where the product is likely to be retained by capillarity.

The hair bundle may comprise at least two hairs having dimensions different, in particular different lengths and / or different sections. The relative difference in section and / or length between the hairs can reach more than 10% or more than 20% or 30%, for example. The longest hairs can have for example, a length greater than 10% greater than that of the shortest hairs. The larger hairs may have a larger transverse dimension, for example a diameter, more than 15% higher than that of the finest hairs.

The bundle of bristles may comprise at least one corrugated hair and one straight hair.

The beam may also comprise wavy hairs of periodic patterns different. Periodic pattern refers to a portion of the hair that breeds substantially, periodically along the pile. A periodic pattern presenting less a ripple can be determined by three components that are its shape, by sinusoidal or sawtooth example, its amplitude, that is to say, its bulk measured in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the hair, and its spatial frequency, ie the number of patterns reproduced per unit length of the hair. The same pattern can be repeated several times over the entire length of the hair. A hair may have a single pattern or less than a single pattern.

A periodic pattern of a hair may comprise at least one undulation and / or minus a load and / or at least a cross-sectional variation of the pile and / or notch and / or other reliefs yet.

The bundle of bristles may comprise, for example, wavy hairs having patterns and / or different frequencies.

The bundle of bristles may comprise at least one bristle having promoting sliding.

The sheath can spare with the stem only or with the hairs and the stem, the space to store the product. The space between the sheath and the rod can be arranged so that the product tends to be held in this space by capillarity. The where appropriate, the space may be, at least in places, relatively wide, with an interval more than 2 mm for example between the inner surface of the sheath and the stem portion or of the bundle of hairs opposite.

Preferably, the sheath has at least one lateral opening communicating with the space between the sheath and the rod, so as to allow the entry of product and / or the entry and exit of air into this space, which facilitates the filling of the product space and the product flow out of the space towards the bristles. This lateral opening advantageously has a section greater than 5 mm ² , better 9 mm ² , better still 16 mm ² , or even 20 mm ² or 25 mm ² .

The sheath can be rigid or flexible. The sheath can in particular be made in a material different from that of the stem. Alternatively, the sheath can be made in the same material.

The sheath may comprise an inner surface and / or an outer surface totally smooth, at least over a portion of its length. The sheath may in particular be internally devoid of bead or annular groove. The sheath can for example be internally smooth and the stem include reliefs such as streaks or other asperities. As a variant, the inner surface of the sheath may comprise reliefs such that for example streaks.

The sheath can be fixed on the rod by stapling or otherwise, the sheath being be fixed axially relative to the rod. The sheath can for example be glued or welded on the stem. The sheath can still be retained by friction and / or snap on the rod. The sheath can be made monolithically with the rod, for example by injection or overinjection of material.

The sheath may have a circular or oblong cross section, depending on for example that the cross section of the rod is circular or oblong. The sheath can still have a circular cross section while the stem is section oblong and reciprocally. The outer section of the sheath may be constant or not. The sheath may have a variable inner section, for example varying from one section circular to an oblong section. The sheath may have a decreasing inner section when one approaches the bundle of hairs. The cross-sections of the sheath and the rod may be, where appropriate, substantially homothetic, for example both oblong over at least part of their length.

The sheath may have a free edge adjacent to the bundle of bristles, which is entirely circular or not. The sheath may for example comprise, at a free end, an indentation for example to center the flow of the product on the element application and / or to facilitate the flow of the product to the application element.

The stem may have a circular or oblong cross section on a at least part of its length. The rod may in particular have a shape tending to channel the product flowing along the rod to a predefined region of the beam of fur. This may allow for example to further improve the application accuracy.

The rod may have, at least near its end adjacent to the a bundle of bristles, a cross-section having an outer contour presenting at least a concavity. In this case, the bundle of bristles can for example be fixed in a housing an end portion of the shaft, said housing having a sectional opening oblong transverse along an axis of greater length. The aforementioned concavity can be located substantially, when the stem is observed in cross-section, at mid-length along the axis of greater length of housing. The stem may include, where appropriate, a wall of varying thickness around the housing.

The rod may comprise at least one groove extending along at least one part of the rod, or two grooves located for example opposite to each other. This or these grooves can help guide the flow of the product present along the rod.

The bundle of bristles may have a cross-section substantially rectangular, circular or other.

Preferably, the free end of the sheath is at or near the level bristles of the hair bundle.

The movements of the bundle of hair and / or the stem during the application may, if necessary, create local variations in the gap between the stem and the sheath and / or between the latter and the bundle of bristles, which can act on the flow of product.

When the bundle of bristles is flat, it can for example be oriented with its large axis in cross section oriented substantially parallel or perpendicular to a lateral opening of the sheath. Orientation may be different again.

• un élément d'application,
• une tige supportant l'élément d'application,
• une gaine ménageant avec la tige sur au moins une partie de sa longueur un espace permettant de constituer une réserve de produit, la gaine et la tige présentant des sections transversales agencées de telle sorte que l'espace présente une épaisseur variable lorsque l'on se déplace autour de la tige pour au moins une portion de la longueur de la tige.

Independently or in combination with the foregoing, the subject of the invention is, in another of its aspects, an applicator comprising:

• an application element,
• a rod supporting the application element,
• a sheath providing with the shaft over at least a part of its length a space for constituting a stock of product, the sheath and the rod having cross sections arranged so that the space has a variable thickness when one is moves around the rod for at least a portion of the length of the rod.

The sheath and the rod may in particular have cross sections having different shapes, so that the spacing between the sheath and the stem varies in the circumferential direction.

The stem may in particular have a concavity in cross section which allows the thickness of the space to increase locally.

The rod may for example comprise at least one groove, rectilinear or not, by helical example, extending along at least a portion of the rod.

The rod may in particular comprise two rectilinear grooves located opposite one from the other.

The groove or grooves present on the rod or on the sheath may contribute to guide the flow of the product present along the space formed between the sheath and the rod to a particular region of the application element, including a region median of it.

This or these grooves can advantageously lead axially to the end of the rod or sheath located on the side of the applicator element.

The concavity can have very different shapes, especially with or without rounded background. The shape of the concavity may vary as one moves along the stem or sheath.

The rod may comprise a wall of variable or constant thickness around a housing of the rod receiving the application element, if any.

According to these aspects of the invention, in which the space defined between the stem and the sheath has a variable thickness in the circumferential direction, the rod presenting a portion having in cross-section at least one concavity, the element application may be any and in particular be constituted by identical bristles and / or all of circular cross-section and / or all rectilinear.

In the case where the application element has a generally flattened shape, being for example constituted by a bundle of bristles fixed in a form of housing elongated rod, the sheath and / or the rod can be arranged to channel the product substantially in the middle region of the applicator element, the sheath or the shaft for example having a concavity of generally symmetrical shape relative to the median plane for the dwelling, this median plane being perpendicular to the axis of greater length of housing observed in cross section.

The presence of the sheath along at least a portion of the stem may allow to slow the flow of the product towards the applicator element, so that example of obtaining a flow rate adapted to the nature of the product to be applied and / or that of the application element.

• un élément d'application autre qu'un pinceau,
• une tige supportant l'élément d'application,
• une gaine ménageant avec la tige sur au moins une partie de sa longueur un espace permettant de constituer une réserve de produit.

Independently or in combination with the foregoing, the invention further relates, in another of its aspects, to an applicator for applying a product, comprising:

• an application element other than a brush,
• a rod supporting the application element,
• a sheath forming with the rod over at least a portion of its length a space to constitute a reserve of product.

The application element may in particular be a felt tip or a tip Flocked. The particularities of realization stated above can be applied to such a applicator.

• un élément d'application, par exemple un faisceau de poils,
• une tige supportant l'élément d'application,
• une gaine ménageant avec la tige sur au moins une partie de sa longueur un espace permettant de constituer une réserve de produit, la gaine comportant au moins une ouverture latérale de dimensions permettant l'entrée de produit dans l'espace précité, notamment une ouverture latérale de plus de 5 mm² de section, la tige pouvant être immobile longitudinalement relativement à la gaine.

Independently or in combination with the foregoing, the invention further relates, in another of its aspects, to an applicator for applying a product, comprising:

• an application element, for example a bundle of bristles,
• a rod supporting the application element,
• a sheath providing with the shaft over at least a portion of its length a space for constituting a supply of product, the sheath having at least one lateral opening of dimensions allowing the entry of product into the aforementioned space, in particular a lateral opening more than 5 mm ² section, the rod may be immovable longitudinally relative to the sheath.

Such an applicator may be received in a container which has an enlarged collar at less partially opposite this lateral opening, in order to facilitate the circulation of the produced towards the latter. This enlargement of the neck is for example obtained by realizing the collar with a shoulder. The distance between the lateral opening and the wall facing the neck widened is for example greater than or equal to 1.5 mm.

According to another of its aspects, the invention also relates to a device for the application of a product, especially on the nails, this device being able to be characterized in that it comprises a container containing the product to be applied and one of the applicators as defined above.

The device may comprise a closure cap supporting the rod, and the container may comprise a threaded neck, the closure cap then having a skirt of threaded mounting, arranged to screw on the neck.

The device may or may not have a wiper.

The neck may have a free edge that can form a sharp edge, in order to facilitate the spinning of the application element. The stem may comprise a tray having an annular groove into which the aforementioned edge engages. The collar can be surmounted by an insert forming the sharp edge. This patch can be attached in various ways on the neck of the container, for example by snapping.

The closure capsule may have a length greater than that of the stem and / or greater than that of the container. In the case where the closure capsule constitutes also a gripping member, a relatively large length of the capsule of closing can increase comfort to the application and bring to a new gestures.

The neck may for example have a relatively large height. it can reduce the risk of fouling of the neck thread by dried product. A collar long can also, if necessary, allow the realization of the closure cap with sufficient length of the mounting skirt to conceal the aperture (s) lateral formed in the sheath.

The sheath may have a radial clearance with the container when the applicator is in place on the container, in particular a clearance greater than or equal to 0.5 mm.

In this case, the sheath may have at its upper end a diameter outside less than the inside diameter of the neck.

The closure cap may comprise a plurality of fins disposed on the inner face of the closure cap, these fins being able to be used for fastening the stem, including being able to receive a tubular shaped mounting the upper end of the stem.

The device may comprise an outer ring projecting from the surface outer of the container, such a ring being retained for example by friction. This ring can be positioned on the container so as to maintain the level of the liquid in the container under that of the opening of the receptacle, when the receptacle rests by its bottom and by the ring on a horizontal surface.

The device may also comprise a sleeve, in particular an elastomer, attached to the container, and retained on it for example by friction. Such a sleeve can for example facilitate the gripping of the container.

• la figure 1 est une vue schématique de côté d'un dispositif d'application de produit sur les ongles, le récipient étant fermé,
• la figure 2 est une vue schématique du dispositif de la figure 1, le récipient étant ouvert,
• la figure 3 est une coupe longitudinale du dispositif de la figure 2,
• la figure 4 représente isolément, en coupe axiale schématique, la tige et la gaine de la figure 3, élément d'application enlevé,
• la figure 5 représente isolément et de manière schématique la gaine de la figure 3,
• la figure 6 est une vue de dessous selon VI de la figure 4,
• la figure 7 représente de manière schématique l'extrémité du faisceau de poils du dispositif des figures 1 à 3,
• la figure 8 est une coupe longitudinale partielle d'une variante de réalisation dans laquelle la tige est réalisée de façon monolithique avec la gaine,
• la figure 9 représente, de manière schématique et partielle, un faisceau de poils comportant au moins deux poils présentant des profils différents,
• les figures 10 et 11 représentent isolément, de manière schématique et partielle, des poils ondulés, vus de côté,
• les figures 12 à 28 représentent divers exemples de sections transversales de poils, parmi d'autres,
• les figures 29 à 33 représentent des exemples d'extrémité de poils,
• la figure 34 représente, en coupe axiale, de manière schématique et partielle, une tige supportant un faisceau de poils et une gaine, cette dernière ménageant avec la tige seulement un espace permettant de retenir du produit,
• la figure 35 représente isolément et de manière schématique une gaine comportant à son extrémité distale une échancrure,
• la figure 36 est une vue en élévation d'un exemple de réalisation dans lequel la gaine entoure une tige de section transversale oblongue,
• la figure 37 est une section transversale selon XXXVII-XXXVII de la figure 36,
• les figures 38 et 39 illustrent la possibilité de réaliser la tige et la gaine avec des reliefs complémentaires,
• la figure 40 représente de manière schématique, en section transversale, une tige présentant extérieurement deux concavités, les poils n'étant pas représentés,
• la figure 41 représente la tige de la figure 40 entourée de la gaine,
• les figures 42 à 48 sont des vues analogues à la figure 40, représentant d'autres exemples de tiges,
• les figures 49 à 54 sont des vues schématiques en section transversale d'exemples de formes de logements destinés à recevoir le faisceau de poils,
• les figures 55 à 58 illustrent différents profils d'extrémité pour le faisceau de poils,
• les figures 59 à 61 représentent de manière schématique quelques exemples de faisceaux de poils présentant, en section transversale, des contours différents,
• la figure 62 est une coupe longitudinale partielle et schématique illustrant la possibilité de réaliser la gaine avec des reliefs sur sa surface intérieure,
• les figures 63 et 64 représentent, de manière schématique et partielle, en coupe axiale, des variantes de réalisation du col du récipient,
• les figures 65 et 66 représentent de manière schématique d'autres exemples de dispositifs selon l'invention,
• la figure 67 est une coupe longitudinale partielle illustrant la possibilité de réaliser le récipient avec un col élargi,
• la figure 68 est une coupe longitudinale partielle illustrant la possibilité de munir le récipient d'un organe d'essorage,
• la figure 69 est une coupe longitudinale partielle d'une variante de réalisation de la tige,
• les figures 70 et 71 illustrent deux manières de positionner une agrafe servant à la fixation du faisceau de poils dans le logement correspondant de la tige,
• la figure 72 illustre la possibilité de remplacer le faisceau de poils par un autre élément d'application,
• la figure 73 représente isolément un exemple de capsule de fermeture, de manière schématique,
• la figure 74 est une coupe transversale partielle et schématique de la capsule de la figure 73,
• la figure 75 est une coupe transversale et schématique selon LXXV-LXXV de la figure 74,
• la figure 76 est une vue schématique selon LXXVI de la figure 74,
• la figure 77 représente une variante de réalisation du récipient,
• la figure 78 est une vue analogue à la figure 2 d'une variante de réalisation,
• la figure 79 est une section transversale selon LXXIX de la figure 78, les poils n'étant pas représentés dans un souci de clarté du dessin,
• la figure 80 est une vue analogue à la figure 79 d'une variante de réalisation,
• la figure 81 est une vue analogue à la figure 78 d'une autre variante de réalisation, et
• la figure 82 représente de manière schématique, en coupe longitudinale partielle, un autre exemple de réalisation.

The invention will be better understood on reading the following detailed description, non-limiting examples of implementation thereof, and on examining the appended drawing, in which:

• FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a product application device on the nails, the container being closed,
• FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the device of FIG. 1, the container being open,
• FIG. 3 is a longitudinal section of the device of FIG. 2,
• FIG. 4 represents, in schematic axial section, the rod and the sheath of FIG. 3, with the application element removed,
• FIG. 5 represents in isolation and schematically the sheath of FIG. 3,
• FIG. 6 is a view from below according to VI of FIG. 4,
• FIG. 7 schematically represents the end of the bundle of bristles of the device of FIGS. 1 to 3,
• FIG. 8 is a partial longitudinal section of an embodiment variant in which the rod is made monolithically with the sheath;
• FIG. 9 represents, schematically and partially, a bundle of bristles comprising at least two bristles having different profiles,
• FIGS. 10 and 11 show, in a schematic and partial manner, wavy hairs, viewed from the side,
• Figures 12 to 28 show various examples of cross sections of bristles, among others,
• FIGS. 29 to 33 show examples of hair tips,
• FIG. 34 represents, in axial section, schematically and partially, a rod supporting a bundle of bristles and a sheath, the latter providing with the rod only a space for retaining product,
• FIG. 35 represents, in isolation and schematically, a sheath comprising at its distal end a notch,
• FIG. 36 is an elevational view of an exemplary embodiment in which the sheath surrounds a rod of oblong cross-section,
• FIG. 37 is a cross section according to XXXVII-XXXVII of FIG. 36,
• FIGS. 38 and 39 illustrate the possibility of producing the stem and the sheath with complementary reliefs,
• 40 shows schematically, in cross section, a rod having two concavities externally, the bristles being not represented,
• FIG. 41 represents the rod of FIG. 40 surrounded by the sheath,
• Figures 42 to 48 are views similar to Figure 40, showing other examples of rods,
• Figures 49 to 54 are schematic cross-sectional views of exemplary housing shapes for receiving the bundle of bristles,
• Figures 55 to 58 illustrate different end profiles for the pile bundle,
• Figures 59 to 61 show schematically some examples of bundles of bristles having, in cross section, different contours,
• FIG. 62 is a partial and schematic longitudinal section illustrating the possibility of producing the sheath with reliefs on its inner surface;
• FIGS. 63 and 64 show schematically and partially, in axial section, alternative embodiments of the neck of the container,
• FIGS. 65 and 66 schematically represent other examples of devices according to the invention,
• FIG. 67 is a partial longitudinal section illustrating the possibility of producing the container with an enlarged collar;
• FIG. 68 is a partial longitudinal section illustrating the possibility of providing the container with a wiper member,
• FIG. 69 is a partial longitudinal section of an embodiment variant of the rod,
• FIGS. 70 and 71 illustrate two ways of positioning a clip for fixing the bundle of bristles in the corresponding housing of the rod,
• FIG. 72 illustrates the possibility of replacing the pile bundle with another application element,
• FIG. 73 represents, in isolation, an example of a closure capsule, schematically,
• FIG. 74 is a partial and schematic cross-section of the capsule of FIG. 73,
• FIG. 75 is a cross section and schematic according to LXXV-LXXV of FIG. 74,
• FIG. 76 is a schematic view according to LXXVI of FIG. 74,
• FIG. 77 represents an alternative embodiment of the container,
• FIG. 78 is a view similar to FIG. 2 of an alternative embodiment;
• FIG. 79 is a cross section along LXXIX of FIG. 78, the bristles not being represented for the sake of clarity of the drawing,
• FIG. 80 is a view similar to FIG. 79 of an alternative embodiment,
• FIG. 81 is a view similar to FIG. 78 of another variant embodiment, and
• Figure 82 shows schematically, in partial longitudinal section, another embodiment.

The packaging and application device 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 comprises a container 2 and an applicator 3, removably attached to the container 2.

The container 2 contains in the example described a nail polish V, but no outside the scope of the present invention when the product present in the container 2 is another cosmetic or care product.

The container 2 can be made of any material compatible with the product content inside and for example in a material selected from the group consisting of: glass, metal, plastic, especially Barex®, polyolefins, especially polyethylene, polyethylene ethylvinyl alcohol / polycarbonate (PE / EVOH / PC) or polyethylene / ethylvinyl alcohol / nylon® (PE / EVOH / NYLON®), this list not being limiting.

In the example under consideration, the container 2 comprises, in the upper part, a collar 4 of longitudinal axis Y, provided with an external thread 9, on which can be screwed a skirt 17 of a closure cap 5. The latter also serves as a grip for the applicator.

The length of the closure cap 5 may, for example, be greater than that of the container 2.

The applicator 3 comprises, below, a rod 6 having a portion end 7 supporting a bundle 10 of bristles 11 comprising at least two kinds of fur. The rod 6 has an upper end 8 for fixing in the capsule closure 5, snap and / or friction, for example. The tip 8 has in the example considered a plate 90 which can be arranged to bear against the upper end edge of the neck 4 when the closure cap 5 is screwed down.

A tubular sheath 15 carried by the rod 6 surrounds it. In the example considered, the sheath 15 extends downwardly beyond the rod 6 and partially surrounds the bristles 11, as can be seen in FIG.

An annular space 20 is provided between the inner surface 16 of the sheath 15, the stem 6 and the bristles 11.

The sheath 15 comprises at least one lateral opening 21 communicating with the annular space 20 above and opening outwardly facing the mounting skirt 17. Preferably, the mounting skirt 17 is long enough to hide the one or more lateral openings 21 to improve the aesthetics. Alternatively (not shown), the lateral openings 21 could open out of the mounting skirt 17 and be apparent.

The sheath 15 is flexible in the illustrated example, but it could be rigid without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The sheath 15 may be made of a material different from that of the rod 6, transparent or not, and has a circular cross section in the example shown. The rod 6 also has in the example considered a circular section and comprises, superiorly, an enlarged portion 26 connecting to the nozzle 8. The sheath 15 applies on this enlarged portion 26.

The sheath 15 may be fixed on the rod 6 for example by means of at least one staple 41 inserted in the enlarged portion 26, as seen in FIG. the scope of the present invention if the staple 41 is disposed at another location in the sheath 15, or if the latter is fixed in another way on the rod 6, for example by bonding, welding, crimping, snapping or otherwise. In particular, the sheath 15 can be made in a monolithic manner with the rod 6, for example in the same material, as shown in Figure 68. In this figure, the possibility of making more than one lateral opening 21 on the sheath 15, for example two openings 21 diametrically opposed.

Referring to FIG. 4, it can be seen that the rod 6 comprises in its end portion 7 a housing 25 arranged to receive the bundle 10 of bristles 11.

The latter can be fixed, for example by stapling, at the bottom of this housing 25, the bundle of bristles being for example folded in half and fixed at mid-length by a staple not shown, introduced into the bottom of the housing 25. The hairs can be fixed otherwise than by stapling on the rod, the latter being for example overinjected on the hair or bristles stuck to it.

The lateral opening 21 has for example a polygonal section, in particular square or rectangular, as can be seen in FIG. 5. The section of the lateral opening 21 is advantageously large enough for the product V to be able to flow easily through. The section of the lateral opening or the sum of the sections of the lateral openings exceeds for example 5 mm ² , better 9 mm ² , better still 16 mm ² , or even 20 or 25 mm ² . In the example, the side opening 21 is substantially 5 mm side.

Before application, the container can be shaken with the closure cap 5 in place, which may result in more product V being the space 20.

When the applicator 3 is disengaged from the container 2, the product V remains contained in the space 20, as can be seen in FIG. increased capillary retention due to the use of two kinds of hair, it is avoided product V contained in the space 20 to flow too brutally to the application. The applicator 3 can thus have a relatively large autonomy, allowing by example of applying the varnish on a nail in a single layer, without having to plunge back the applicator 3 in the container 2.

The flow can be more easily controlled, allowing for example if it is wish to deposit a relatively thick product layer.

The bundle of bristles may comprise at least two bristles 11 having different mechanical properties, including mechanical flexural behavior different, which may allow to obtain a beam of aerated hairs, with intervals between the hairs likely to retain the product by capillarity.

The hair bundle 10 may also have sectioned hairs transverse non-circular, having increased product retention capacity.

In the example of FIG. 7, the bundle 10 of bristles 11 comprises at least two hairs with different diameters.

Alternatively or additionally, the bundle 10 of bristles 11 may comprise at least minus two corrugated hairs having different corrugation patterns, by their shape, their spatial frequency and / or their amplitude, as shown in Figure 9.

There are shown in Figures 10 and 11 two examples of wavy hairs. The hair of Figure 10 has a substantially sinusoidal shape, while the hair shown at Figure 11 shows a sawtooth shape.

The beam 10 may also comprise corrugated hairs and straight hairs, for example example between 20 and 40% of wavy hairs and between 60 and 80% of straight hairs, for example about 30% of wavy hairs and about 70% of straight hairs.

The bristles 11 used may have a circular cross-section or other, and in particular comprise at least one capillary groove. The bristles 11 can, when their cross section is non-circular, be twisted. Hair can by example have at least one helical groove.

It is possible in particular to use bristles having in cross section one of shapes shown in Figures 12 to 28 schematically, for example a circular shape with a flat as shown in Figure 12, flattened as shown in FIG. FIG. 13, star-shaped, for example in the form of a cross as illustrated in FIG. branches as illustrated in Figure 15, of U as shown in Figure 16, of H as shown in FIG. 17, of T as shown in FIG. shown in FIG. 19, a recessed shape, for example circular as shown in FIG. FIG. 20 or polygonal, in particular square, as represented in FIG. ramifications as shown in Figure 22, a polygonal section, for example triangular as shown in Figure 23, square as shown in Figure 24, or hexagonal as shown in FIG. 25, an oblong shape, in particular a lenticular shape as shown in Figure 26 or hourglass-shaped as shown in Figure 27. It is also possible to use bristles having articulated parts with respect to each other, as shown in Figure 28.

The bristles 11 may, if appropriate, undergo a treatment for example thermal intended to form at their end a ball 31 as shown in Figure 29 or mechanical intended to form forks 32, as shown in Figure 30.

The bristles 11 may possibly have a tapered tip, as illustrated in Figure 31.

It is also possible to use flocked hairs 11 as illustrated in FIG. still bristles 11 made by extrusion of a plastic material having a load 33, as shown in Figure 33. These can increase by for example the roughness of the hair and improve the retention capacity of the product.

Where appropriate, the bristles 11 may have magnetic properties or other.

All combinations of bristles 11 are of course possible.

The hairs can be made at least for the most part in materials synthetic materials chosen, for example, from polyolefins, in particular polyethylene, polyamides, in particular PA6, PA6 / 6, PA6 / 10, PA6 / 12 or PA11, for example RILSAN®, HYTREL-PEBAX polymer and other thermoplastic polymers.

At least some bristles 11 may be made of a material having slip-promoting properties, for example RILSAN® or PA6 / 12 loaded with molybdenum disulfide, graphite or polytetrafluoroethylene, in particular TEFLON®, this list is not limiting.

The space 20 can be formed between on the one hand the sheath 15 and on the other hand the rod 6 and the bristles 11. In a variant, as illustrated in FIG. 34, the sheath 15 can provide a space 20 with the rod 6 only, the sheath 35 not extending down beyond the end portion 7 of the rod 6 and not surrounding the beam 10.

As illustrated in FIG. 35, the sheath 15 may have a notch 40, including a V-shaped notch, at its lower part 18. This notch can for example, to help center the flow of the product over a predefined region of the element application.

The cross section of the rod 6 may be circular, as shown in FIG. Figure 6, but it can of course present other forms.

The rod 6 can thus, as illustrated in FIGS. 36 and 37, have a section transverse oblong over at least part of its length from its end lower.

The sheath 15 may present in the upper part a cross section circular, adapted for attachment to the enlarged portion 26, cylindrical of revolution, of the rod 6, and in the lower part a non-circular cross section adapted to the shape of the stem 6.

The sheath 15 can provide at its lower end with the rod 6 and / or the beam 10 a relatively narrow gap 60. This interval 60 can follow the outline of the rod 6. During the application, the width of the interval 60 may vary, especially increase locally, following the movements of the bundle 10 of bristles 11 and / or following the bending of the rod 6, which can help regulate and / or facilitate the flow of the product V contained in the space 20 to the hairs 11.

In order, if necessary, to facilitate the angular positioning of the sheath 15 relative to the rod 6 during the assembly of the sheath 15 on the rod 6, reliefs complementary 61 and 62 can be made respectively on the rod 6 and the sheath 15.

The relief 62 is for example in the form of a boss protruding on the enlarged portion 26 of the rod 6, of triangular contour, while the relief 61 is present in the form of a notch made in the thickness of the sheath 15, opening on its inner surface and on its upper end, also triangular profile. The seal could be obtained otherwise still, for example by support of a part conical of the applicator against the neck of the container, this conical portion being for example present under the plate 90

When the housing 25 which receives the bundle 10 of hairs has a shape not symmetrical of revolution, for example an oblong shape, the bundle of hairs can be fixed in this housing by a clip 64 which can be oriented, compared to the large X axis of the housing, perpendicular to it as shown in Figure 70 or parallel to it as shown in Figure 71. The orientation of the staple 64 in the housing 25 can help to make the beam 10 more or less divergent.

As illustrated in FIGS. 40 to 48, the rod 6 may comprise, on a part at least its length and in particular on its end portion 7, at least one concavity 46. The housing 25 may have an opening of cross section rectangular, elongated along the X axis, as shown in Figure 40. The thickness of material e surrounding the housing 25 may not be constant. On the face 40, the rod 6 has two opposing concavities 46. These concavities can channel the flow of the product to a median region of the applicator element.

In FIG. 41, the sheath 15 is shown forming a space 20 with the rod 6 around the entire periphery thereof. This space 20 may have a dimension that varies all the way around the rod 6. In particular, the dimension of the space 20 can be at the level of the concavities 46, which may make it possible to product more important at this location. Apart from the concavities 46, the outer contour of the rod 6, when the latter is observed in cross section, can be convex.

It is possible to modify the shape of the housing 25 and / or that of the end portion 7 of the rod 6, in which the housing 25 is made.

By way of example, FIGS. 42 to 54 show different forms of end portions, among others.

It can be seen in FIG. 42 that the rod 6 may comprise only one concavity 46.

It can be seen in FIG. 43 that the opening of the housing 25 may have a non-rectangular cross section, for example substantially elliptical.

It can be seen in FIG. 44 that the opening of the housing 25 may have a cross-section defining two light concavities 25c directed outwards on the sides, these two concavities 25c being, for example, less pronounced than those formed outside the stem 6.

It is seen in Figure 45 that the concavities 46 can be relatively narrow, so for example to further improve the channeling of the product to mid-length housing 25.

It can be seen in FIG. 46 that the concavities 46 can present, in section transverse, a substantially triangular profile.

In FIG. 47, it is illustrated that the thickness e ₁ of the wall of the housing 25, near the longitudinal ends thereof, may be less than the thickness e ₂ of the wall substantially at mid-length. 25. The thickness e ₁ may, if appropriate, correspond to a minimum. A small thickness e ₁ can make it possible to make a housing 25 having a larger dimension along the X axis, which makes it possible to obtain a very wide brush or capable of widening easily.

Figure 48 illustrates the possibility of having concavities 46 having shapes different.

Regardless of the possible presence of one or more concavities 46, the end portion 7 of the rod 6 can be made with different cross sections at level of the housing 25 for receiving the bundle of bristles 10.

FIGS. 49 to 54 show different examples of sections transverse of the end portion 7 of the rod 6 and the housing 25.

The cross section of the end portion 7 may in particular be oval or elliptical as illustrated in FIG. 49, polygonal as illustrated in FIGS. 52, in particular square or rectangular, reniform as illustrated in FIG. 53, starred as shown in Figure 54 or crenellated as shown in Figure 50.

The length of the hairs of the bundle 10 can be chosen so that the free ends of the bristles 11 are substantially contained in the same plane, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Y of the rod 6, as illustrated in FIG. 57.

As a variant, the free ends of the bristles 11 of the bundle 10 can be located along a non-planar surface C, for example convex on the opposite side to the rod 6, and as shown in Figure 55.

In another variant, illustrated in FIG. 56, the free ends of the hairs beam 10 are substantially along a flat surface extending obliquely relative to the Y axis of the stem.

The housing 25 receiving the bundle 10 of bristles 11 may have, as illustrated in Figure 57, a constant cross-section, which allows for example to obtain a brush whose hairs are relatively tight. In giving housing 25 a shape diverging outwards, as illustrated in FIG. 58, the bristles are allowed to 11 to deviate further from each other and form a wider beam.

The bundle 10 of bristles 11 may have different shapes in section cross. In Figure 59, the brush is flat, in Figure 60, the brush is round and on FIG. 61, the cross section of the beam 10 has a curved shape for better to marry the curvature of the nail.

FIG. 62 illustrates the possibility of making the sheath with on its inner surface of the reliefs 92, such as, for example, annular ridges.

The neck 4 which is devoid of wiper has at its upper end a free edge, which may be flat or have a sharp edge 56, as shown in FIG. 63.

The presence of a sharp edge can help to seal the container by coming into contact with a lower face 57 of the tip 8 of the rod 6. On the other hand, the user can, by removing the applicator 3 from the container 2, drain the beam 10 loaded with produced on the free edge 55 of the neck 4. Thanks to the sharp edge 56, the product will flow to the interior of the container 2. The sharp edge 56 may have different shapes.

Where appropriate, when the neck has a sharp edge 56, it can be performed on the lower face 57 of the plate 90 of the nozzle 8 a groove 66 in which engages the edge 56, as shown in Figure 69. This can further improve the sealing of the closing the container.

In a variant, as illustrated in FIG. 64, the sharp edge 56 can be realized on a piece 110 attached to the neck 4 of the container.

The insert 110 can be fixed by snapping on the neck 4, the latter comprising for example an annular groove 111 and the outer part 110 a bead 112 corresponding interior.

The insert 110 may be made of plastic for example.

The container 2 containing the product to be applied may have a shape different without departing from the scope of the present invention, as illustrated in FIGS. 65 and 66.

In FIG. 65, the container 2 has a conventional shape, and can contain a ball intended for the homogenization of the product V.

In FIG. 66, the container 2 has a diabolo shape, with a section decreasing from the bottom to the center and then widening again towards the high, which can facilitate its grip.

The diabolo shape can be that of the container 2 itself, or that of of a sleeve, in particular made of elastomer, attached to the container 2 which, for its part, is substantially cylindrical example.

The closure cap 5 may also have a different shape without that is outside the scope of the present invention, in particular that substantially conical illustrated in Figure 66.

The neck 4 can be made with a shoulder giving it an enlarged shape, to provide additional space between the interior surface of the container 2 and the sheath 15 at the opening 21, as shown in Figure 67 and thereby facilitate the filling the space 20 with penetrating product through the opening 21. The width of this space is for example greater than 1.5 mm.

In the example of FIG. 67, the neck 4 has been made with a lower part 4a enlarged, providing with the sheath 15 an annular space 69 wider than that 70 existing between the sheath 15 and the upper part 4b of the neck 4, which carries the thread 9.

In use, the product V can gain the lateral opening 21 in circulating through the passage 69, especially when the user shakes from bottom to top the container 2.

FIG. 68 illustrates the possibility of making the container 2 with a wiper member 72, for example inserted in the neck 4 and bearing by a flange 73 against the upper end of the neck 4.

The wiper member 72 may comprise an annular lip 74 which comes apply when the container 2 is closed on the outer surface of the sheath 15 above of the lateral opening 21.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 73 to 76, the capsule of closure 5 has an elongated shape and flattened at its upper end.

The inner face of the capsule comprises a plurality of fins 120, having different lengths in the illustrated example.

The fins 120, visible in FIGS. 74 to 76, can facilitate the fixing of the tip 8, in particular by friction.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 77, the container 2 is provided on its outer surface with a ring 125, for example made of elastomer, held for example by friction on the container 2.

The ring 125 can facilitate the gripping of the container 2 and / or allow place the open container on a horizontal surface without the product contained in the container 2 does not flow out of it.

Although the invention applies advantageously to an application element brush, the invention also has advantages when the beam 10 is replaced by an applicator element 80 other than a brush, for example a flocked tip, a foam tip or a felt tip as shown in the figure 72.

FIGS. 78 and 79 show an example of an applicator made according to one aspect of the invention, wherein the applicator comprises a rod 6 provided with at least one concavity 46 and an application element consisting of a beam any bristles, for example rectilinear and cross-sectional circular.

FIG. 78 also illustrates the attachment of the sheath to the rod by snap.

In the example considered, the rod 6 has two longitudinal grooves 46 opposite, as can be seen in Figure 79, but the shank 6 could that one and more generally present for example one of the sections described previously with reference to Figures 40 to 48.

The rod 6 could also comprise at least one non-rectilinear groove, for example example a helical groove.

The stem and the sheath may still have other forms for making vary the thickness of the space around the stem. It is for example the sheath which presents, as illustrated in FIG. 80, at least one groove 131, or even two grooves 131, on its radially inner surface, which creates concavities 132, the rod 6 having in this for example, in cross-section, an outline devoid of concavity.

In a variant not illustrated, it is both the sheath and the rod which present, in cross-section, a concavity.

The exhaust air in the space between the sheath and the rod can be realized otherwise than with side openings 21.

By way of example, FIG. 81 shows an applicator whose sheath 15 is devoid of lateral openings. The rod 6 has a notch extending to the axially between the sheath and the rod and radially under the plate 90 but above the upper edge of the sheath, forming a vent 130 allowing the escape of air when the lower end of the sheath is immersed in the product.

FIG. 82 illustrates the possibility of making the applicator with a articulation 200 allowing a certain angular displacement D of the rod and the sheath when of use.

The hinge 200 is for example a hinge-film or a narrowing filiform or diabolo-shaped portion of the stem, for example that connected to the tip 8.

The articulation could still be performed differently, for example with a ball or one or more pivot pins.

The sheath is attached to the rod, in the example shown, under the hinge and pivots with the stem.

When in use, the comfort to the application can be improved by the inclination of the rod.

The invention is not limited to the embodiments which have just been described, and the characteristics of the different modes of realization, and in particular the bundle of bristles can be replaced by another element in particular in FIGS. 1, 8, 34, 36, 65, 66, 67 and 68.

Throughout the description, including the claims, the expression "Comprising a" must be understood as being synonymous with the expression "comprising at least one ", unless the opposite is specified.

Claims (57)

Applicator (3) for applying a product (V), especially to the nails, comprising: a bundle (10) of bristles (11) comprising at least two kinds of bristles and / or bristles of non-circular cross-section and / or non-rectilinear bristles, a rod (6) supporting the bundle (10) of bristles (11), a sheath (15) arranging with the rod (6), over at least a portion of its length, a space (20) for constituting a reserve of product. Applicator comprising: an application element, a rod (6) supporting the application element, a sheath providing with the shaft over at least a portion of its length a space (20) for constituting a stock of product, the sheath and the rod having cross sections arranged so that the space has a variable thickness when the one moves around the rod, for at least a portion of the length of the rod. Applicator according to claim 2, characterized in that the rod (6) has, at least in the vicinity of an end adjacent to the applicator element, at least one cross section having a contour having a concavity (46). Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the bundle (10) of bristles comprises at least two bristles (11) having different compositions. Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the bundle (10) of bristles comprises at least two bristles (11) having different dimensions, in particular lengths and / or larger transverse dimensions different. Applicator according to claim 5, characterized in that the longest hairs have a length greater than 10% greater than that of the shortest hairs. Applicator according to claim 5, characterized in that the larger hairs have a greater transverse dimension of more than 15% greater than that of the finest hairs. Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the bundle (10) of bristles (11) comprises at least two bristles (11) having different shapes, including longitudinal profiles and / or different cross sections. Applicator according to claim 8, characterized in that the bristles (11) have different longitudinal profiles. Applicator according to claim 8, characterized in that the bristles (11) have different cross sections. Applicator according to claim 8, characterized in that the bundle of bristles has straight bristles and corrugated bristles. Applicator according to Claim 11, characterized in that the bundle (10) comprises between 60 and 80% of straight hairs, in particular approximately 70%, and between 20 and 40% of corrugated hairs, in particular approximately 30%. Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that at least two kinds of bristles of the bundle each have a number of bristles which represents at least 2% of the total number of bristles of the applicator. Applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the sheath (15) only house with the rod (6) a space (20) for retaining the product. Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the sheath (15) provides both a bristle (11) and a shaft (6) with a space (20) for retaining product. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sheath (15) comprises at least one opening (21) lateral communicating from the outside with the space (20) between the sheath (15) and the rod (6). Applicator according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the opening (21) extends over at least 9 mm ² , better still at least 16 mm ² . Applicator according to claim 16, characterized in that the opening (21) extends over at least 20 mm ² , in particular about 25 mm ² . Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the space (20) between the sheath (15) and the rod (6) is arranged in such a way that product can be retained in said space (20) by capillarity. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sheath (15) is rigid. Applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the sheath (15) is flexible. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sheath (15) is made of a material different from that of the rod (6). Applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that the sheath (15) is made of the same material as the rod (6). Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sheath (15) has a completely smooth inner surface (16). Applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that the sheath (15) has an inner surface having at least one relief (92). Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sheath (15) is fixed on the rod (6) by stapling. Applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 25, characterized in that the sheath is retained on the rod by snapping. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sheath (15) has a circular cross section. Applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 26, characterized in that the sheath (15) has on at least part of its length an oblong cross section. Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the sheath (15) comprises, at a free end, a notch (40). Applicator according to claim 2, characterized in that the sheath has in cross section at least one concavity (131). Applicator according to claim 31, characterized in that the concavity (131) is present at least in the vicinity of one end of the sheath adjacent to the applicator element. Applicator according to claim 2, characterized in that the sheath and the shaft have cross sections of different shapes, so that the spacing between the sheath and the shaft varies in the circumferential direction. Applicator according to claim 2, characterized in that the rod comprises at least one groove, rectilinear or not, particularly helical, extending along at least a portion of the rod. Applicator according to claim 2, characterized in that the rod comprises two rectilinear grooves located opposite to each other. Applicator according to claim 35, characterized in that this or these grooves may open axially to the end of the rod or sheath located on the side of the applicator element. Applicator according to claim 2, characterized in that the rod comprises a wall of varying thickness around a housing of the rod receiving the applicator element. Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the rod (6) has, at least in the vicinity of an end adjacent to the bundle (10) of bristles (11), a cross section having an outer contour having at least one concavity (46). Applicator according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the bundle (10) of bristles (11) is fixed in a housing (25) of an end portion (7) of the rod (6), the housing (25) ) having an oblong cross-sectional opening along an axis (X) of greater length, the concavity (46) being located substantially, when the rod (6) is observed in cross section at mid-length along the axis (X) ) of housing. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rod (6) has two concavities (46) situated opposite one another. Applicator according to Claim 1, characterized in that the sheath (15) has a variable internal cross-section. Applicator according to claim 41, characterized in that the sheath (15) has a circular inner cross section at one axial end and flattened at the opposite axial end. Device (1) for the application of a product, in particular on nails, characterized in that it comprises a container (2) containing the product to be applied and an applicator (3) as defined in any one of of the preceding claims. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that it comprises a closure cap (5) supporting the rod (6) and in that the container (2) comprises a neck (4) threaded, the closure cap ( 5) being arranged to screw on the neck. Device according to one of claims 43 and 44, characterized in that it is devoid of wiper. Device according to one of claims 43 and 44, characterized in that it comprises a wiper (72). Device according to any one of claims 43 to 46, characterized in that the neck (4) has a free edge (55) forming a sharp edge (56). Device according to claim 47, characterized in that the neck (4) is surmounted by an insert (110) forming a sharp edge (56). Device according to claim 48, characterized in that the insert (110) is snapped onto the neck (4) of the container (2). Device according to claim 46, characterized in that the closure cap (5) has a length greater than that of the rod (6). Device according to any one of claims 46 to 50, characterized in that the sheath (15) comprises at least one lateral opening (21) of more than 9 mm ² in section and in that the container has an enlarged collar at least partially opposite this lateral opening, in order to facilitate the circulation of the product towards this lateral opening. Device according to Claim 51, characterized in that the distance between the lateral opening (21) and the wall facing the enlarged neck is greater than or equal to 1.5 mm. Device according to claim 46, characterized in that the sheath has a radial clearance with the container when the applicator is in place on the container, in particular a clearance greater than or equal to 0.5 mm. Device according to claim 53, characterized in that the sheath has at its upper end an outer diameter smaller than the inside diameter of the neck. Device according to claim 44, characterized in that the closure cap (5) has a plurality of fins (120) disposed on the inner face of the closure cap (5). Device according to any one of claims 43 to 55, characterized in that it comprises an outer ring (125) fixed on the outer surface of the container. Device according to claim 43, characterized in that a vent (130) is provided between the upper edge of the sheath and the portion of the applicator on which the sheath is fixed.

Images