EP1623650B1 - Device for storing and applying cosmetic or care products - Google Patents

Abstract

A device (1) comprises an applicator (3) including an applicator element (6) that is at least partially elastically deformable and a receptacle (2) to contain a substance to be applied and to house the applicator element when not in use. The receptacle comprises an opening through which the applicator element passes when the applicator element is removed from the receptacle. The applicator element comprises at least one inner cavity defined between at least two branches that are at least partially flocked and an outside cross-section of the applicator element is large enough for the applicator element to deform while passing through the opening of the receptacle. The deformation results in a shape of the cavity that is modified. The applicator element includes a body made of thermoplastic material. The receptacle includes a wiper member made of non-cellular material e.g. polyolefin and/or elastomer. The cavity is filled with an elastically deformable porous material. An independent claim is included for the applicator.

Description

The present invention relates to devices for packaging and applying a cosmetic or care product.

The request for French patent FR 2 771 077 discloses a packaging and applicator device comprising an applicator having an applicator element that can be refilled with product by being introduced into a container through a wiper member constituted at least in part by an elastically deformable porous material. Such a device is relatively complex and expensive to produce and further the rod of the applicator is made with a small diameter so as not to deform the wiper member. The rod is thus relatively flexible, which can affect the accuracy of the makeup.

We also know by the European patent EP 1 053 695 B1 an applicator comprising an application element that can deform on crossing the wiper member. The application surface is relatively narrow and the comfort to the application is not entirely satisfactory.

Other applicators are described in US 2002/0005209 A1 , US 6,120,202 , US 6,305,861 B1 , EP 693 261 A1 and EP 0 875 169 A1 especially.

US 4,411,282 and US 5,826,600 disclose mascara applicators having stacked discs which deform when the applicator is removed from the container.

US 3,692,417 describes a mascara brush whose bristles flex when passing through the opening of the container.

The invention aims in particular to provide an applicator both comfortable and accurate and having sufficient autonomy to allow application in good conditions.

The object of the invention is, according to a first aspect, a packaging and application device according to claim 1.

The applicator element may have a relatively wide application surface, which contributes to making the device relatively fast and comfortable to use, especially in the case of an application on the skin or lips.

When the device is intended for the makeup or treatment of eyelashes or eyebrows, the application element offers new possibilities of application of the product according to the orientation given to the application element relative to keratinous fibers.

The branches can define a larger width of the application element.

The cavity may make it possible to constitute, when it is made so as to be able to load the product, a reserve of product providing additional autonomy to the application element or making it easier to deposit a larger quantity of product, in order to to reinforce a makeup effect, for example the gloss of a gloss.

The invention makes it possible to use as a wiper member, if desired, a wiper member which deforms relatively little, if not substantially when it is traversed by the applicator element and in particular a wiper member. spinning made of a non-cellular material, for example a polyolefin such as low density polyethylene or an elastomer, so that the wiper member can be relatively inexpensive to manufacture and easy to install on the container. Where appropriate, the wiper member may comprise one or more slots to facilitate the passage of the applicator element.

Advantageously, the applicator element is flocked on at least a portion of its surface for application, and its branches can in particular be fully flocked.

The cavity may or may not open to the outside. When the cavity opens out, it can lead to one or more openings. The cavity may for example lead to at least one face of the application element used for the application of the product. The cavity can still lead to two opposite faces of the application element, at least one of which serves for the application of the product. The cavity can still lead to several passes for the product, for example at least three equi-angularly distributed passages about a longitudinal axis of the application element.

It may be advantageous for the cavity to open out as this may facilitate the deposition of the product contained in the cavity on the treated region.

The applicator element may comprise at least one flexible membrane adjacent to the cavity, the flexibility of this membrane does not prevent the applicator element from deforming as it passes through the opening of the container. The cavity may for example be located between two flexible membranes, connecting the branches. The membrane may be perforated or not. The application element may for example comprise a flexible grid extending at least partially in the cavity.

Before any contact of the application element with the product, the cavity may be empty, that is to say filled with air. As a variant, the cavity may be at least partially filled with an elastically deformable material, in particular a material having a deformability greater than that of the portion of the application element defining the cavity, notably a deformability greater than the branches, for example low density foam, felt or flocking.

The application element may have several cavities.

The cavity may have, in one plane at least, a closed contour. The applicator element may have a thickness of material around the cavity, at least in one plane, which is non-constant. The application member may further have a thickness of material around the cavity that is substantially constant, at least in one plane.

The cavity may for example extend over more than half the width of the applicator element. The cavity may extend over more than half the length of the applicator element.

In exemplary embodiments of the invention, the variation of the greatest transverse dimension of the applicator element through the opening of the container is greater than or equal to 20%, better still greater than or equal to 40 % or more.

The applicator element may comprise a body made of a thermoplastic material, defining the cavity, and this body may be at least partially covered by a flocking, or even be entirely flocked.

The application element may be devoid of metal, which allows for example its passage in a microwave oven.

The shape of the application element may depend in particular on the region of the body or face on which the product is to be applied.

For lips for example, the cavity may advantageously extend substantially parallel to a plane forming a non-zero angle with the longitudinal axis of a rod to which the applicator element is connected. At least a portion of the applicator element can thus be elongated along a longitudinal axis that forms a non-zero angle with the longitudinal axis of the support rod. The longitudinal axis of the applicator element may be substantially coaxial with that of the rod which carries the applicator element.

The application element may have a symmetrical envelope surface of revolution or not. The applicator element may have a symmetrical shape relative to a median plane, in particular a median plane containing the longitudinal axis of the support rod. The latter can be connected to the end opposite to that carrying the applicator element to a closing cap of the container.

In exemplary embodiments of the invention, the applicator element does not have elongate teeth or pins.

The container may comprise, as mentioned above, an attached wiper member, which is for example fixed in the neck of the container. In a variant, the container does not have a wiper member. A smaller cross section of the opening of the container may be circular, whether or not the container has an added wiper.

Fixation of the applicator element on the rod can be carried out in various ways and the application element can include a fastening tip engaged in the rod. The applicator element may comprise a tip crimped into the rod or snapped in or on it. Rather than being attached to the rod, the application element can be made at least partially in one piece with the rod.

In other examples of implementation of the invention, the applicator element comprises a filiform body having two ends engaged in the rod.

The rod may have an outer diameter greater than or equal to 2.5 mm, better than or equal to 3 mm, in particular of the order of about 4 mm, which gives it a certain rigidity and can increase the precision of the makeup.

The movement of the two branches towards each other can be performed for example on more than one tenth of the largest transverse dimension, or more than one eighth or fifth. The two branches that come closer can touch or not when crossing the opening of the container. The two branches can delimit between them a cavity which is empty or not. The two portions may extend in a plane which is or is not an angle with the longitudinal axis of the rod. The two branches may be devoid of teeth or pins, being for example smooth or flocked, especially when the applicator is intended to apply a product on the skin or lips.

The two branches of the application element may have different shapes.

One of the branches is for example thicker, which may allow to decenter the cavity. The cavity can be unique.

The cavity may have a relatively elongated shape, with an m / n ratio for example greater than or equal to 3, or 4, or 5 or 6, where m denotes the length of the cavity and n its widest width.

The width of the cavity may pass through an extremum between its two free ends, this extremum being for example a maximum.

The branches may have a longitudinal outer edge convex outwardly, or concave outwards, or substantially rectilinear over a fraction at least of its length, for example about halfway length.

The outer edge of at least one of the branches may be at least partially streaked.

The branches can be flocked at least partially.

The applicator element may include flocking bristles having different lengths, for example with longer bristles near the distal end of the applicator element.

The branches may have, in cross section, a circular shape, oblong, for example elliptical, polygonal, with rounded or not rounded tops, for example triangular, square or rectangular. The branches can be hollow.

The branches are for example made of an elastomer, in particular a thermoplastic elastomer.

The lateral portions may have longitudinal axes that extend substantially parallel to the same plane, which may be at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the rod. The longitudinal axes can converge towards each other in the direction of the distal portion. The proximal portion may have edges adjacent to the stem that extend obliquely relative to the longitudinal axis thereof. The lateral, proximal and distal portions may define between them a cavity which is empty.

The application element may comprise a tip engaged inside the rod. This may have, in the case where its section is circular, a substantially constant outside diameter, at least for its portion introduced into the container in contact with the product.

The lateral, proximal and distal portions may be made of thermoplastic material by injection molding, in particular a thermoplastic elastomer.

The applicator may comprise, at one end of the rod opposite the applicator element, a cap for closing the container.

• la figure 1 est une coupe longitudinale, schématique et partielle, d'un exemple de dispositif de conditionnement et d'application réalisé conformément à l'invention,
• la figure 2 représente isolément l'élément d'application de la figure 1,
• la figure 3 est une section transversale selon III-III de la figure 2,
• la figure 4 est une vue de côté dans la direction de la flèche IV de la figure 2,
• la figure 5 est une coupe longitudinale de l'élément d'application, selon V-V de la figure 4,
• la figure 6 représente isolément la partie supérieure du récipient de la figure 1,
• les figures 7 à 10 illustrent le franchissement de l'organe d'essorage par l'élément d'application,
• la figure 11 est une section transversale de l'organe d'essorage et de l'élément d'application selon XI-XI de la figure 9,
• la figure 12 illustre l'utilisation de l'applicateur pour appliquer un produit sur les lèvres,
• la figure 13 illustre la possibilité de réaliser la tige avec un rétreint,
• la figure 14 illustre la possibilité de réaliser le récipient sans organe d'essorage rapporté,
• la figure 15 illustre la possibilité d'utiliser un organe d'essorage réalisé au moins partiellement dans un matériau alvéolaire,
• la figure 16 est une section transversale selon XVI-XVI de la figure 15, de l'organe d'essorage représenté isolément,
• les figures 17 à 19 sont des vues analogues à la figure 5 illustrant d'autres modes de fixation de l'élément d'application sur la tige,
• les figures 20 à 23 sont des vues analogues à la figure 2 de variantes de réalisation de l'élément d'application,
• la figure 24 est une vue analogue à la figure 4 d'une variante de réalisation,
• la figure 28 est une vue analogue à la figure 2 d'une variante de réalisation,
• la figure 29 est une coupe analogue à la figure 2 d'une variante de réalisation,
• la figure 30 est une section transversale selon XXX-XXX de la figure 29,
• la figure 31 est une coupe analogue à la figure 5 d'une variante de réalisation,
• les figures 25 à 27 et 32 à 37C sont des sections analogues à la figure 3 de variantes de réalisation,
• la figure 38 est une coupe analogue à la figure 5 d'une variante de réalisation,
• la figure 39 est une section transversale schématique selon XXXIX-XXXIX de la figure 3 8,
• la figure 40 est une vue analogue à la figure 2 d'une variante de réalisation,
• la figure 41 illustre la possibilité de réaliser l'élément d'application par découpage,
• la figure 42 représente partiellement et en vue de face une variante de réalisation de l'organe d'essorage,
• la figure 43 représente en vue de côté un élément d'application conforme à une variante de mise en oeuvre de l'invention,
• la figure 44 représente l'élément d'application de la figure 43 en vue de dessus,
• les figures 45 à 56 représentent en vue de dessus d'autres exemples d'éléments d'application,
• les figures 57 et 59 représentent de manière schématique en perspective d'autres exemples d'éléments d'application,
• les figures 58 et 60 sont des sections selon LVIII et LX respectivement,
• la figure 61 est une coupe longitudinale d'un applicateur selon une variante 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:

• the figure 1 is a longitudinal section, schematic and partial, of an exemplary packaging and application device produced according to the invention,
• the figure 2 represents in isolation the application element of the figure 1 ,
• the figure 3 is a cross section along III-III of the figure 2 ,
• the figure 4 is a side view in the direction of arrow IV of the figure 2 ,
• the figure 5 is a longitudinal section of the application element, according to VV of the figure 4 ,
• the figure 6 represents in isolation the upper part of the container of the figure 1 ,
• the Figures 7 to 10 illustrate the crossing of the wiper member by the application element,
• the figure 11 is a cross section of the wiper member and the application member according to XI-XI of the figure 9 ,
• the figure 12 illustrates the use of the applicator to apply a product on the lips,
• the figure 13 illustrates the possibility of making the stem with a narrowing,
• the figure 14 illustrates the possibility of making the container without added wiper member,
• the figure 15 illustrates the possibility of using a wiper member made at least partially of a cellular material,
• the figure 16 is a cross section according to XVI-XVI of the figure 15 , the wring member shown in isolation,
• the Figures 17 to 19 are similar views to the figure 5 illustrating other ways of fixing the application element on the rod,
• the Figures 20 to 23 are similar views to the figure 2 variant embodiments of the application element,
• the figure 24 is a view similar to the figure 4 an alternative embodiment,
• the figure 28 is a view similar to the figure 2 an alternative embodiment,
• the figure 29 is a cut similar to the figure 2 an alternative embodiment,
• the figure 30 is a cross section according to XXX-XXX of the figure 29 ,
• the figure 31 is a cut similar to the figure 5 an alternative embodiment,
• the Figures 25 to 27 and 32 to 37C are sections analogous to the figure 3 variants of embodiment,
• the figure 38 is a cut similar to the figure 5 an alternative embodiment,
• the figure 39 is a schematic cross section according to XXXIX-XXXIX of the figure 3 8 ,
• the figure 40 is a view similar to the figure 2 an alternative embodiment,
• the figure 41 illustrates the possibility of making the application element by cutting,
• the figure 42 represents partially and in front view an alternative embodiment of the wiper member,
• the figure 43 represents in side view an application element according to an alternative embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 44 represents the application element of the figure 43 in top view,
• the Figures 45 to 56 represent in top view other examples of application elements,
• the Figures 57 and 59 schematically show in perspective other examples of application elements,
• the Figures 58 and 60 are sections according to LVIII and LX respectively,
• the figure 61 is a longitudinal section of an applicator according to an alternative embodiment.

The device 1 for packaging and application represented at figure 1 comprises a container 2 containing a product P to be applied and an applicator 3 comprising a rod 4 of longitudinal axis X, provided at one end with a gripping element 5 also constituting a sealing cap of the container 2 and at the other end of an application element 6.

In the illustrated example, the axis X of the rod 4 is rectilinear but it could be curved, alternatively.

The container 2 is provided in the upper part with a neck 7 in which is engaged a wiper member 8.

The gripping element 5 is screwed on the neck 7 but could alternatively be fixed differently, for example by snapping.

As can be seen more particularly on the figure 6 , the wiper member 8 comprises a flange 9 resting on the upper edge of the neck 7 and a wiper lip 10 defining in the example considered a wiping orifice 11 of circular section, of diameter a , for example substantially equal to that of the rod 4. The latter has a diameter generally greater than 2.5 mm, for example of the order of 4 mm.

The wiper member 8 is made in the example shown in a non-cellular material, for example a polyolefin or an elastomer. The polyolefin is for example polyethylene, especially low or high density.

In the example of the figure 1 the outer surface of the application member 6 is flocked. In other exemplary embodiments, the applicator element 6 could for example not be flocked or at least partially surface-covered with a coating other than flocking, for example a woven fabric, a nonwoven fabric, a foam or present reliefs, for example a grid.

In the example illustrated, the application element 6 has, as can be seen on the figure 5 , a generally symmetrical shape with respect to a median plane of symmetry M and comprises a cavity 12 which is delimited laterally by two lateral portions or branches 13 and axially by distal portions 14 and proximal 15 joining the branches 13. The latter are elongated according to respective longitudinal axes Y which extend substantially parallel to a plane B, as can be seen in FIG. figure 4 , which makes with the axis X of the rod 4 an angle α which is for example between about 20 ° and about 30 °. The angle β between each Y axis and the median plane of symmetry M is, for example, between 5 and 45 °, as can be seen on FIG. figure 2 .

The shape of the distal 14 and proximal portions 15 will advantageously be chosen so as to facilitate the crossing of the opening 11 of the container 2. The proximal portion 15 may thus comprise edges 60, adjacent to the stem 4, extending obliquely relative to the X axis, and the distal portion 14 may have a generally tapered shape.

In the example considered, the branches 13 converge towards each other towards the distal portion 14 and the cavity 12 has, when the application element 6 is observed in elevation, a substantially triangular shape.

The cavity 12 extends for example, as can be seen on the figure 5 in particular, over more than a quarter of the width b of the applicator element 6 as well as over more than a quarter of its length l . The dimensions of the cavity 12 may be chosen as a function of the deformability required to cross the opening 11 of the container and the amount of product that it is desired to retain optionally, particularly by capillarity, in the cavity 12 after removal of the applicator of the container.

The width b of the application element 6 is greater than the smallest diameter a of the wiper member 8, so that, when the wiper member 8 passes through it, the applicator element 6 deforms, as illustrated on the Figures 7 to 10 .

In particular, it can be seen in these figures that the lateral portions 13 approach each other substantially parallel to the direction D of the largest transverse dimension, to the point that their facing faces can touch each other, the shape of the cavity 12 being modified during the passage of the wiper member 8 by the applicator element 6.

The ratio b / a is for example greater than 1.2, or even 1.4 or 1.6, so that the variation experienced by the greatest transverse dimension of the applicator element through the opening 11 can be sensitive. The width b is for example of the order of 9 mm and the dimension has of the order of 4 mm.

The widest part of the application element 6 is preferably the one that is the most flexible.

After passing through the opening 11 of the container, the applicator element 6 can, thanks to its own elasticity, recover its initial shape, as can be seen in FIG. figure 10 .

We can observe on the figure 11 that product P can be removed from the cavity 12 during the passage of the wiper member 8, when the side portions 13 are approaching. In the example considered, spaces 63 nevertheless remain on either side of the applicator element 6 when the branches 13 have approached each other, and the product P can extend into these spaces 63. deviate again, the product P can return to the cavity 12. The presence of spaces 63 allows to avoid excessive spinning of the applicator element 6, as it passes through the wiper member 8.

The product P present in the cavity 12 increases the autonomy of the applicator and can also improve comfort on application, facilitating the sliding of the applicator on the treated surface.

The product P is for example intended to be applied to the lips and the user can deposit it on them, for example by bringing the rear face 20 of the applicator element 6 to their contact, as illustrated in FIG. figure 12 . In the example considered, the rear face 20 corresponds to that located on the rear side when the application element 6 is observed with the lateral portions 13 extending forward.

During the application, depending on the surface of the applicator element 6 in contact with the treated zone, the deposited product thickness may be different, which may allow the user to vary, for example, the brightness of the makeup.

When the application element 6 is applied flat, the product P present in the cavity 12 can be deposited and the product-loaded surface P coming into contact with the lips can be relatively large, so that the lips can be made up sufficiently quickly.

If necessary, the application can be made only with the end of the distal portion 14, to draw an outline for example.

In the case where it is desired to wring more vigorously the rod 4 and the application member 6, the wiper member 8 can be made with a smaller diameter. If necessary, the rod 4 can be made with a constriction 40, as illustrated in FIG. figure 13 this necking 40 avoiding mechanically urging the wiper member 8 when the container is closed.

The device 1 can also be produced without added wiper member in the neck 7 of the container, as shown in FIG. figure 14 . In this figure, it can be seen that the neck 7 may have a smaller internal diameter a which is smaller than the width b of the application element 6, so that the application element 6 is deformed at the through the opening 11 of the container.

In a variant not shown, the container 2 is made with an overmoulded wringing member.

We illustrated at the figure 15 the possibility of using an added spin member 8, other than that shown in FIG. figure 1 .

On the figure 15 , the wiper member 8 is constituted by a block of a cellular material, elastically compressible.

The wiper member 8 may be traversed at its center by a recess 42 defining the opening 11 of the container, as can be seen on the figure 16 .

The diameter of the recess 42 may for example correspond substantially to that of the rod 4.

The wiper member may still, regardless of its nature, alveolar or not, have one or more slots, which may be contiguous edges or not.

The applicator can be used in combination with a slotted wiper. For example, there is shown in the figure 42 a wiper member 8 having a central opening for the passage of the rod and the applicator element and several slots 100, which may be radial.

Fixing the application element 6 on the rod 4 can be effected by various means.

In the example of the figure 1 , the proximal portion 15 is extended, as can be seen on the figure 5 , by a tip 18 engaged inside the rod 4.

This tip 18 is for example glued, stapled or welded in the rod 4. The latter can be further crimped onto the tip, as shown in FIG. figure 17 .

The figure 18 illustrates the possibility of securing the application element and the rod by snapping. The tip 18 is for example configured to snap onto a head 70 made at the end of the rod 4. The outer diameter of the tip 18 may then, for example, correspond substantially to that of the rod 4.

In a variant not shown, it is the rod 4 which is snapped onto the endpiece 18.

The body of the applicator element can still be made in one piece with the rod 4, as illustrated in FIG. figure 19 .

We illustrated at the figure 20 the possibility for at least a portion of the application element 6 to extend along a longitudinal axis Z which makes an angle γ with the longitudinal axis X of the rod 4, the X and Z axes being contained in the same plane and the cavity 12 extending substantially parallel to this plane.

We illustrated on the figure 21 the possibility for the applicator element 6 to have a non-symmetrical shape with respect to the axis X of the rod 4. Where appropriate, as illustrated in FIG. figure 22 , the application element 6 may have an edge 72 extending substantially in alignment with the rod 4.

The application element 6 may also comprise more than one cavity 12, for example two cavities 12 as shown in FIG. figure 23 .

The two cavities 12 are for example aligned along the longitudinal axis of the applicator element 6. The latter may have, for example, in front view, the general shape of an eight.

In the example of the figure 1 , the application element 6 extends obliquely relative to the longitudinal axis X of the rod 4.

The applicator element 6 can be further extended, in a non-illustrated variant, along a curvilinear longitudinal axis.

The applicator element 6 may be made differently and each branch 13 may for example extend with its longitudinal axis Y contained in a plane which is parallel to the longitudinal axis X of the rod 4, as shown in FIG. figure 24 .

In the example of the figure 1 in particular, the cavity 12 opens at the front and at the back of the applicator element 6, when it is observed from the front, as on the figure 2 .

In the example of the figure 28 , the application element 6 comprises more than two intermediate portions 13 joining the proximal portions 15 and distal 14. The intermediate portions 13 are for example three or four in number and are arranged around the cavity 12, which opens at the outside the openings 13 formed between the intermediate portions 13. The latter have for example an arched shape, concave inwardly.

We have shown on Figures 29 and 30 an application element 6 which is formed by a filamentary body 30, solid or hollow, having two ends 31 and 32 engaged in corresponding housings of the rod 4.

We illustrated on the figure 31 the possibility of producing the application element 6 with a non-constant material thickness around the cavity 12, in at least one plane. In this figure, it can be seen that the thickness of material may vary from a maximum thickness e ₁ to a minimum thickness e ₂ , for example at the level of the branches 13.

The branches 13 may have, over at least a portion of their length, a solid cross section, of circular shape for example.

We illustrated on the figure 32 the possibility for the branches 13 to have a different shape in section, with for example facing faces 77 substantially planar.

In a variant not shown, the branches 13 are hollow.

In the examples which have just been described, the cavity 12 is filled with air before any contact of the application element 6 with the product contained in the container. It could be otherwise.

Thus, the cavity 12 may for example be at least partially occupied by the flocking extending on the body of the applicator element 6, as is the case in the example illustrated in FIG. figure 37 . The flocking hairs covering the body of the application element 6 may for example be long enough for the bristles located on the facing faces of the branches 13 to meet.

We have illustrated on Figures 25 to 27 and 37A to 37B the possibility for the branches 13 to have various shapes in section, for example substantially polygonal, in particular triangular, as shown in FIG. Figure 37B or square as shown in the figure 26 , flattened substantially parallel to the plane of the cavity 12 as shown in FIG. Figure 37B or flattened and oriented obliquely so that the cavity 12 opens outwardly through two unequal openings as illustrated in FIG. figure 25 .

Whatever their section, the branches 13 may for example have a height h which is greater than the width w of the cavity 12 between the branches, as shown in FIG. figure 27 .

The application element 6 can, as illustrated in FIG. figure 33 , have two cavities 12 which are separated by a flexible membrane 80 joining the branches 13 and located for example mid-thickness thereof.

This membrane 80 may be flocked or not. Its flexibility does not prevent the application element 6 to deform sufficiently to cross the opening of the container, if necessary. The membrane 80 may be replaced by a grid 81, as shown in FIG. figure 40 . The cavity 12 can only lead to one face of the application element 6, as illustrated in FIG. figure 34 , the application element may comprise a membrane 82 defining for example at least partially the application surface by its outer face 83. This membrane 82 may for example be flocked externally. In a variant not shown, at least one orifice allows the product contained in the cavity 12 to gain the outer face 83, through the membrane 82.

The membranes 80 or 82 may be molded in one piece with the branches 13.

The membrane 82 may be replaced by an attached membrane 84, as illustrated in FIG. figure 35 . The membrane 84 may for example comprise a woven or a nonwoven, a foam, a perforated film, a grid, a felt, among others, and may be fixed by welding or gluing, for example.

The membrane 84 may be permeable or not to the product P contained in the cavity 12.

In the example of the figure 36 , the cavity 12 is formed between two flexible membranes 86, which can for example join the branches 13.

The membranes 86 may be attached to the remainder of the applicator element or alternatively may be made integral with the body thereof. The membranes 86 may or may not be permeable to the product P.

In the examples of Figures 33 to 36 membranes 80, 82, 84 or 86 may or may not be elastically deformable.

The cavity 12 can still be at least partially filled, as can be seen on the Figures 38 and 39 by a material 43 which does not excessively prevent the deformation of the applicator element 6 through the opening of the container, when this is necessary. The material 43 may for example be a low-density foam, with very open cells, more easily deformable than the body of the applicator element 6 surrounding the cavity 12. The material 43 may, if appropriate, be flocked externally, as we see on the figure 39 . At least one of its outer faces 90 may at least partially deflect the application surface.

The body of the application element 6 is for example made at least partially by injection molding in a thermoplastic material, for example PVC, PU, EVA, SIS-SEB, nitrile, silicone, EPDM, Hytrel®, Pebax® , Santoprene®, or other thermoplastics, elastomers.

The applicator element 6 can also be made of non-thermoplastic materials, for example flexible resins, or be made other than by molding, for example by cutting, as illustrated in FIG. figure 41 .

Representatives Figures 43 and 44 an applicator element 6 having upper and lower faces 131 which converge towards the distal end of the applicator element, at least along a portion of the cavity 12.

The longitudinal axis X of the rod 4 is for example substantially parallel to one of these faces, for example the upper face 130.

In this example, the application element 6 also has, when viewed from above as shown in FIG. figure 44 , substantially rectilinear longitudinal edges that converge towards the distal end.

The application elements represented on the Figures 45 to 61 can advantageously be used for the application of a product, makeup or care, on keratin fibers, for example eyelashes or eyebrows.

In these application elements, the single cavity 12 has an elongated shape, the ratio of the length m of the cavity to the greatest width n thereof being, for example, greater than or equal to 3, or 4, or 5 or 6. For example, there is 3 ≤ m / n ≤ 6.

The figure 45 represents an application element whose cavity 12 has a substantially constant width over at least half of its length. The longitudinal edges of the branches 13 are rectilinear and parallel to each other, on either side of a median portion located mid-length of the cavity.

In the example of the figure 46 the applicator element 6 is flocked and its distal portion is covered by bristles longer than those covering the branches 13. This distal portion serves for example to make up the corner of the eye.

In the example of the figure 47 the branches 13 have unequal widths and the cavity 12 is off-center.

In the example of the figure 48 , the longitudinal edges of the branches 13 appear striated, when the application element is observed from above.

The figure 49 illustrates the possibility for the branches 13 of the application element to have concave longitudinal edges outwardly. The cavity may then have a width passing through a minimum between its two axial ends.

In the example of the figure 50 the longitudinal edges of the branches are convex outwards, and the cavity 12 presents when viewed from above a lenticular shape.

The application element represented in figure 51 has a curvilinear longitudinal axis Y and the free end of the applicator element is not on the longitudinal axis X of the rod. One of the branches has an outwardly convex outer edge and the other branches an outwardly concave outer edge.

The application element of the figure 52 has a branch having an outer edge convex outward and another branch having a straight outer edge. In addition, it can be seen in this figure that the cavity 12 can be relatively narrow and form a capillary slot.

In the exemplary embodiment of the figure 53 , the cavity 12 is wider than in the example of the figure 52 and has a variable width, passing through an extremum.

The figure 54 illustrates the possibility for the applicator element to comprise two branches, one of which has a rectilinear outer edge and the other a concave outer edge outwards.

In the example of the figure 55 , the applicator element has a curvilinear longitudinal axis, as in the example of the figure 51 and the free end of the applicator element is located on the same side, relative to the longitudinal axis X of the rod, as practically all the rest of the applicator element.

The figure 56 illustrates the possibility for one of the branches of the application element to have grooves while the other branch is devoid of it. These grooves extend for example transversely to the branch.

The Figures 57 and 59 represent application members having a third limb 16 which joins the distal and proximal portions of the applicator member.

In the example of the figure 57 , the third branch is located on one side of the plane defined by the longitudinal axes of the two branches 13, as can be seen on the figure 58 . The third branch 16 has for example an arcuate shape.

In the example of the figure 59 the first two limbs 13 and the third limb 16 are arranged uniformly about the longitudinal axis Y of the applicator element, the proximal portion of the applicator element having a generally triangular cross-section. or three-pointed star, as can be seen on the figure 60 .

We illustrated at the figure 61 the possibility of making the body of the application element monolithically with the rod and with the gripping member, which can also serve as closure member of the container.

The application elements of the Figures 45 to 61 are for example made at least partially by molding material, including a thermoplastic material.

The application elements of the Figures 45 to 61 may allow to load the eyelashes with a relatively large amount of product. Two branches of the application element can be used simultaneously or successively to apply the product on the eyelashes.

For all the application elements described above, the application of the product may optionally be carried out in various ways depending on the desired result, the application element being for example used flat, on the edge or with various inclinations , the chosen orientation allowing the user to control for example the intensity of makeup.

The application element may have shapes other than those illustrated, for example diamond, circle or ellipse when the application element is observed from the front.

The application elements may comprise magnetic particles.

The deformability of the applicator element can be used to recover product that adheres to the interior surface of the container.

An application element having a clearly elongated shape, as is the case for example with the application elements of Figures 45 to 61 , is advantageously made so as to allow this deformation.

Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiments which have just been described. In particular, the characteristics of the different exemplary embodiments can be combined with one another.

The expression "having one" shall be understood as being synonymous with the expression "having at least one" unless the contrary is specified.

Claims (36)

1. A packaging and applicator device (1) comprising:

   - an applicator (3) including an applicator element (6) that is at least partially elastically deformable; and

   - a receptacle (2) containing a substance (P) to be applied and in which the applicator element can be housed when not in use, the receptacle comprising an opening (11) through which the applicator element can pass while the applicator element is being removed from the receptacle, the device being characterized by the fact that the applicator element (6) comprises at least one inner cavity (12) that is defined, at least in part, between at least two branches (13) that are at least partially flocked, optionally filled with an elastically-deformable porous material (43), and characterized by the fact that its an outside cross-section is large enough for the applicator element to deform while passing through the opening (11), the deformation resulting in the shape of the cavity (12) being modified.
2. A device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the cavity (12) opens out to the outside.
3. A device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the cavity (12) does not open out to the outside.
4. A device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the cavity (12) opens out in at least one face of the applicator element that is used to apply the substance.
5. A device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the cavity (12) opens out in two opposite faces of the applicator element, with at least one of the faces being a face that is used to apply the substance.
6. A device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the cavity (12) opens out via a plurality of passages for the substance, for example at least three passages that are evenly-spaced angularly about a longitudinal axis of the applicator element.
7. A device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the applicator element includes at least one flexible membrane (80; 82; 84) adjacent to the cavity.
8. A device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the cavity (12) is situated between two flexible membranes (86).
9. A device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the applicator element includes a flexible gauze (81).
10. A device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the applicator element includes a plurality of cavities (12).
11. A device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the cavity (12) presents a closed contour in at least one plane.
12. A device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the variation in the maximum transverse dimension of the applicator element (6) while passing through the opening (11) of the receptacle is not less than 20%, better not less than 40%.
13. A device according to any preceding claim, characterized by the fact that the applicator element (6) includes a body made out of a thermoplastic material.
14. A device according to any preceding claim, characterized by the fact that the applicator element (6) does not include any metal.
15. A device according to any preceding claim, characterized by the fact that the cavity (12) extends substantially parallel to a plane forming a non-zero angle (α) with the longitudinal axis (X) of a stem (4) to which the applicator element is connected.
16. A device according to any preceding claim, characterized by the fact that at least a portion (13) of the applicator element (6) is elongate along a longitudinal axis which forms a non-zero angle (α) with the longitudinal axis of a stem (4) to which the applicator element (6) is connected.
17. A device according to any preceding claim, characterized by the fact that the receptacle (2) includes a wiper member (8) insert.
18. A device according to claim 17, characterized by the fact that the wiper member (8) is fastened in a neck (7) of the receptacle.
19. A device according to claim 18, characterized by the fact that the wiper member (8) is made out of a material that is not cellular.
20. A device according to claim 19, characterized by the fact that the wiper member is made out of at least one of a polyolefin and an elastomer.
21. A device according to any preceding claim, characterized by the fact that the receptacle has an opening (11) with a smallest cross-section that is circular.
22. A device according to claim 17, characterized by the fact that at least part of the wiper member (8) is made out of a cellular material.
23. A device according to any preceding claim, characterized by the fact that the applicator element (6) presents an envelope surface that is not a surface of revolution.
24. A device according to any one claims 1 to 22, characterized by the fact that the applicator element presents an envelope surface that is substantially a surface of revolution.
25. A device according to any preceding claim, characterized by the fact that the applicator element (6) presents a shape that is symmetrical relative to a mid-plane, in particular a mid-plane (M) containing the longitudinal axis of a stem to which the applicator element is connected.
26. A device according to any preceding claim, characterized by the fact that the applicator comprises a stem (4) that carries the applicator element (6), and that is connected at its other end to a closure cap (5) for closing the receptacle.
27. A device according to claim 26, characterized by the fact that the applicator element (6) includes a fastener endpiece (18) engaged in the stem (4).
28. A device according to claim 26, characterized by the fact that the applicator element (6) has a filamentary body with two ends (31; 32) engaged in the stem (4).
29. A device according to claim 26, characterized by the fact that the stem (4) presents an outside diameter that is not less than 2,5 mm, better not less than 3 mm, in particular not less than about 4 mm.
30. A device according to claim 26, characterized by the fact that the applicator element is fastened onto the stem.
31. A device according to any preceding claim, characterized by the fact that the cavity (12) extends over more than half the width (b) of the applicator element.
32. A device according to any preceding claim, characterized by the fact that the cavity (12) extends over more than half the length (1) of the applicator element (6).
33. A device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the cavity (12) is filled with a low density foam.
34. A device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the cavity (12) is full of air before it comes into contact with the substance.
35. A device according to any preceding claim, characterized by the fact that the substance (P) is for making up the mucous membranes, the skin, or the nails.
36. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 34, characterized by the fact that the substance (P) is for applying onto keratinous fibers.

Images