FR3095115A1 - Cosmetic applicator with separate molded brush and applicator structures - Google Patents

Abstract

A cosmetic applicator comprising an applicator element at a distal end of a rod. The applicator element comprises a twisted wire brush portion, formed by securing a plurality of bristles (3b) between a pair of twisted wires (3) between them of the twisted wire core (3a), and a molded brush portion for the application of a cosmetic or care product and for the arrangement of the hairs, the eyebrows or the eyelashes. In one aspect, the molded applicator element includes an arm (2d) that is curved both in a longitudinal axis and in a horizontal axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, at least along a length of the arm. In another aspect, the twisted wire core is in the form of a loop, in which the molded brush portion is threaded over the twisted wire core. Figure for short: Fig. 2

Description

COSMETIC APPLICATOR WITH SEPARATE BRUSH AND MOLDED APPLICATOR STRUCTURES

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C §119 of Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 201911015738, filed April 19, 2019 and Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 201911015362, filed April 16, 2019.

BACKGROUND – Field: the present invention generally relates to a cosmetic applicator for applying a product comprising a cosmetic, hygiene or pharmaceutical product to a keratinous substrate such as the skin, lips, dark circles, eyebrows, eyelids, cheeks, fingernails or any other part of the body. More particularly, the invention relates to an applicator for cosmetic products with an applicator head which comprises a structure for applying a cosmetic and a second structure for smoothing and distributing the applied cosmetic.

BACKGROUND - Description of Related Art: Devices exist for dispensing cosmetic or medical products. Such devices usually consist of a container containing the cosmetic or medical products, an administration mechanism for moving the cosmetic or medical products, and an applicator. For example, in the medical industry, applicators are employed for applying medical products such as ointments to parts of the body.

Many cosmetic products which, unlike lipstick sticks or eyebrow pencils, are fluid or of indefinite shape, are packaged and sold in a container which contains a body of the material from which the material is transported and applied to the skin of a user by a cosmetic applicator.

Cosmetic applicators such as immersion or wand applicators are known in the cosmetics industry. Cosmetic packages often include such applicators for dispensing a particular cosmetic contained within the reservoir of the package. The cosmetic applicator generally comprises a stem with a cap at one end and an applicator head in the form of a brush, a spatula or other applicator structure designed to apply a cosmetic or care product comprising viscous cosmetics, mascara, eyeliner, lip gloss, hair coloring, wound treatment, skin care, dark circle cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and the like. There is a need for eyelash/eyebrow makeup and for an applicator that is capable of filling, styling, separating and shaping eyelashes/eyebrows.

Various applicators for applying a product to the eyebrows have already been proposed. US Patent No. 8,051,860 describes a cosmetic packaging for the application of a cosmetic coloring composition in the eyebrow area, comprising an end piece impregnated with said composition. Such cosmetic packaging is used like a tampon.

Patent EP 1 649 777 A2 describes an applicator for applying a composition to the eyelashes or eyebrows, more particularly mascara, said applicator comprising a comb with a relatively small number of teeth. Such an applicator is particularly suitable for making up the eyelashes at the corner of the eye.

It is also known to use pencils, felt-tip pens or permanent tattoos that allow you to draw patterns imitating the presence of hair and to visibly fill in the eyebrows, especially when they are scattered. However, these products give a diffuse and blurry result. Felt-tip pens and pencils require the bristles to be traced one by one, which can be tedious.

A cosmetic applicator is usually used for the application of a cosmetic (for example mascara and the like), on an application area, for example the hairs of a user, such as eyebrows or eyelashes. Such a cosmetic applicator can also be used to separate hairs, eyebrows or eyelashes and remove excess cosmetics.

A common type of cosmetic applicator includes a twisted wire brush formed by first bending a single wire into a generally U-shaped configuration to form a pair of parallel wire segments, then having relatively soft bristles (also called filaments or fibers, which are usually made of nylon strands) between a lengthy portion of the wire segments, which holds or clamps the soft bristles securely at their centers, this operation being followed by twisting or rotating the wire segments around each other, thereby forming a helical core (also called twisted wire core) with soft bristles extending radially from it from helically or spirally. The flexible radially extending bristles form a bristle portion or bristle head of the twisted wire brush, which can be used for applying a coating of mascara or other cosmetic to the bristles or eyelashes of a user. The soft and flexible bristles of the twisted wire brush are particularly effective in obtaining a good grip on fine hairs, eyebrows or eyelashes and allow the cosmetic product to completely cover the hairs, eyebrows or eyelashes.

The twisted wire core can be bent to form a closed loop, as shown, for example, in US Patent No. 5,761,760 to Dumler et al. The purpose of the loop in the brush described in the reference by Dumler et al. is to create a reservoir for the retention and transfer of mascara or other pasty product from the mascara container to the eyelashes.

However, the hairs, eyebrows or eyelashes coated with the product tend to stick together and form unsightly clumps. The twisted wire brushes described above, with soft bristles, while effective for applying mascara to bristles or lashes, cannot sufficiently separate the clumped bristles or lashes from each other.

In order to eliminate or reduce clumping, a post-application manipulation or disposal step can be performed to separate clumped hairs or lashes using a separate twisted-wire brush with relatively stiff bristles. or preferably a separate molded comb with stiff teeth. To avoid the inconvenience of having to perform each of the application and handling/disposal steps using separate tools, it is desirable to integrate a twisted wire brush with soft bristles with a comb with stiff teeth to form a single cosmetic applicator.

Various prior art references have described such integrated cosmetic applicators with various arrangements and constructions of the twisted wire brush and the comb. For example, U.S. Patent No. 3,921,650 describes a cosmetic applicator comprising a handle and a shaft, while one end of the shaft includes a comb with relatively rigid teeth extending perpendicular to one side of a portion base, a twisted wire brush with relatively soft bristles extending perpendicularly from the other side of the base portion and a serrated portion at the tip of the shaft.

US Patent No. 6,408,857 discloses a cosmetic applicator comprising a twisted wire brush with relatively soft bristles which is bent into a closed loop and into this loop is inserted a comb with relatively stiff teeth extending either on one side or on both sides. The teeth of the comb are offset from the bristles of the twist wire brush, such that the cosmetic applicator has a cross-section that resembles either a "T" (if the comb includes teeth extending only a side) or a "+" (if the comb has teeth extending to both sides).

US Patent Application No. 2004/0221865 discloses a mascara brush containing an applicator brush portion and a setting brush portion. The arrangement brush part includes a comb with relatively stiff teeth formed by injection molding, while the application brush part includes a twisted wire brush with relatively soft bristles. The arrangement brush part and the application brush part are attached to each other so that the teeth of the comb are offset from the bristles of the twisted wire brush, thus forming a head brush with stiff teeth and soft bristles.

There is a continuing need for improved dual function cosmetic applicators, i.e. which can be used to perform both the function of applying cosmetics and the function of arranging hairs, eyebrows or Eyelash. Furthermore, there is a need for a cosmetic applicator for applying a substance to eyelashes and/or eyebrows in order to obtain new makeup effects. There is also a need for a cosmetic applicator that is relatively simple and economical to manufacture. There is also a need for a cosmetic applicator that can retain a sufficient amount of substance to reduce the number of times a user must dip the applicator when applying the substance.

SUMMARY – The present invention relates to an applicator assembly for applying a substance to a keratinous surface, comprising:

a container to hold the substance;

an applicator comprising a stem and an applicator head disposed along a longitudinal axis, the applicator head comprising:

a tail ;

a first applicator element comprising one or more lumens;

a second applicator member comprising a plurality of bristles supported by and extending radially from a core, wherein the core is connected with and extends from the tail in a distal direction, wherein the core extends through the lumen to connect the first applicator element to the tail and the second applicator element; and

a reservoir portion formed between the first applicator element and the second applicator element, wherein a portion of the plurality of bristles extends into the reservoir portion and wherein a portion of the substance can be removably held within the reservoir and on surfaces of the bristle portion.

According to several characteristics of the applicator assembly of the invention:

• the first applicator element is elastically deformable,
• the container further includes a scraper disposed to surround the stem when the applicator is in an inserted state and to contact an outer surface of the applicator head when the applicator is withdrawn from the container in an extended state , wherein, when the applicator is moved from the inserted state to the deployed state, the portion of the substance remains in the reservoir;
• when the applicator head is in contact with the scraper, the first applicator element is moved in the direction of the second applicator element;
• the core comprises two twisted yarns and wherein the plurality of hairs are captured between the twisted yarns;
• the first applicator element comprises two lumens, a first lumen proximal to the reservoir and a second lumen distal to the reservoir, in which the core extends from the tail and passes through the first and second lumens;
• the tail includes a locking element connected to the core and the locking element is inserted into the first lumen;
• the first lumen includes a first interlocking member on its inner surface and the locking member includes a second interlocking member on its outer surface, wherein the interlocking between the first and second locking members secures the first applicator member with the second applicator element;
• the first and second interlocking elements comprise an annular groove and an annular bead or vice versa;
• a distal end of the core extends through the second lumen and the distal end of the core is secured with the second lumen by a glue or press fit;
• the first applicator element comprises a convex outer surface and a concave inner surface, the concave inner surface forming a wall of the reservoir;
• the first applicator element has a cross section between the first and second lumens and cross section with respect to the longitudinal axis, which has a V or C shape;
• the first applicator element comprises a cylindrical support body and a plurality of teeth extending radially outward from the support body, and in which the lumen comprises a passage through the axis of the support body;
• the nucleus forms a loop, and the ends of the nucleus are connected with the tail, and the reservoir is formed inside the loop;
• portions of the plurality of bristles and portions of the plurality of teeth extend into the reservoir;
• a portion of the bristles of the second applicator element is arranged at a distal end of the loop.

The present invention also relates to an applicator head for applying a substance to a keratinous surface comprising:

a tail ;

a twisted wire brush, a proximal end of the brush being connected to the tail, the brush extending from the tail in a distal direction, the brush being formed from two twisted wires and a plurality of hairs captured between the wires twisted and extending radially outward from the twisted wires;

a molded applicator element, a proximal end of the applicator element being connected with the tail, the applicator element extending from the tail generally in the distal direction, wherein the applicator element comprises:

a convex outer surface,

a concave inner surface forming a concavity and

a hole near a distal end of the applicator element,

in which a distal end of the twisted wires is engaged in the hole,

wherein a portion of the bristles extend into the concavity and

wherein the concavity forms a reservoir to contain the substance.

According to several characteristics of the applicator head of the invention:

• the molded applicator element further comprises a generally longitudinally straight portion extending distally from the tail and a curved cap at the distal end, the curved cap passing through the longitudinal axis of the applicator;
• the concavity extends radially around a portion of the bristle brush between more than 40% coverage and less than 50% around a circumference of the brush.

The present invention also relates to an applicator head for applying a substance to a keratinous surface comprising:

a tail ;

a twisted bristle brush, the brush being formed of two twisted yarns and a plurality of bristles captured between the twisted bristles and extending radially outward from the twisted yarns along a first portion of the twisted yarns; and

a molded applicator element, the applicator element being formed of a cylindrical support body, a lumen formed through the axis of the support body, and a plurality of teeth extending from an outer surface of the support, the applicator element surrounding a second portion of the twisted threads,

wherein both ends of the twisted wires are attached to a distal end of the tail,

in which the twisted threads are formed into a loop,

wherein the loop forms a reservoir for containing the substance.

The present invention provides embodiments of a cosmetic package that can be easily configured to contain a product and a cosmetic applicator.

The present invention provides embodiments of a cosmetic package comprising a cosmetic applicator with which a large quantity of cosmetic product can be applied without having to dip the cosmetic applicator into the cosmetic container several times.

The present invention provides embodiments of an applicator that provides a relatively large surface area, very simple to use, economical to manufacture, and aesthetically pleasing.

The present invention provides embodiments of a cosmetic package that includes detachable components that securely fit together to form a unitary package.

The present invention provides embodiments of a cosmetic applicator that is comfortable and easy to use.

The present invention provides embodiments of a cosmetic applicator that is relatively simple and inexpensive to manufacture.

A first embodiment of the present invention provides a cosmetic packaging comprising a cosmetic applicator for the application of a product comprising a cosmetic or care product or a pharmaceutical product on human skin or keratinous materials such as body hair, eyebrows, fingernails and/or eyelashes. The product includes viscous liquid, semi-solid or powder product for application to facial skin, eyes, etc.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the cosmetic package includes a receptacle for containing a product and the cosmetic applicator. The cosmetic applicator includes an applicator head, a shaft and a cap. The applicator cap includes threads which can be screwed onto threads formed on a neck of the receptacle. A scraper may be provided in the neck of the receptacle to scrape excess product from the cosmetic applicator. This scraper element makes it possible to clean the rod and the applicator element when the cosmetic applicator is removed from the container. The scraper also includes an annular bead intended to fit into a corresponding annular groove on the inside of the neck of the receptacle.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the applicator head is retained at a distal end of the rod for applying the product; and the cap is retained at a proximal end of the shaft.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the container of the cosmetic packaging comprises a threaded neck and the cosmetic applicator comprises a gripping element also constituting a closure cap adapted to be fixed in the neck in order to close the container tightly.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a longitudinal axis of the rod is rectilinear, but it is not beyond the scope of this invention that the rod is not rectilinear, for example forming a bend .

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the scraper can be rigid or be made of an elastomeric material. The scraper can be made of a material, for example a polyolefin or an elastomer. The polyolefin can be polyethylene such as low or high density polyethylene.

The handle and shaft can be made of plastic material (e.g. polypropylene (PP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyoxymethylene (POM) or any suitable material.

The product may be in the form of, for example, powder, liquid, gel, cream, oil-based product, wax-based product, water or the like.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the container may be made of plastic, glass or any other material known in the prior art.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the applicator head comprises a first applicator element and a second applicator element, and in which the first applicator element is designed to house and retain the second applicator element. More particularly, the first applicator element is a molded applicator element and the second applicator element is a brush with twisted threads. The twist yarn brush includes a twist yarn core and a plurality of bristles extending from the twist yarn core. Further, the twisted wire brush includes a tip, a bristle portion, and a bristleless rear portion.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the molded applicator element comprises a proximal portion and a distal portion. The proximal portion of the molded applicator member is shaped like a cylindrical shank which is designed to fit within a cavity in the shaft. The molded applicator element can be fixed to the rod by force, more particularly by snap-fastening, gluing, welding or crimping the tail of the molded applicator element in the cavity of the rod provided at the distal end of the rod. More particularly, the tail of the molded applicator element comprises at least one annular bead and the internal surface of the cavity of the stem comprises a corresponding annular groove. When the proximal/tail end portion of the applicator head is inserted into the interior longitudinal cavity of the shaft, the at least one annular bead snaps into the corresponding annular groove.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the distal portion of the molded applicator element comprises a base portion and an arm which extends along a longitudinal axis X of the applicator head from the base portion. base of the molded applicator element. The arm has a curve in the X-Y axis with a concave inner surface and a convex outer surface opposite the inner surface. By curve in the XY axis, it is meant that the arm is curved both around the longitudinal axis X (i.e. curved from top to bottom) and around a horizontal axis Y (i.e. curved from top to bottom) and around a horizontal axis Y (i.e. i.e. curved from left to right), i.e. it is curved around two mutually perpendicular axes. More particularly, the Y axis is perpendicular to the X axis. The arm of the molded applicator element therefore comprises a longitudinal concavity in the direction of the internal surface which is designed to at least partially accommodate at least a portion of the wire brush twisted.

In certain examples, the arm can be curved either around one axis or around both the X and Y axes. The arm can therefore have a semi-spherical curvature around the X axis and/or the Y axis. alternative embodiments, the arm may have an arcuate curvature with varying curvature along the X-axis and/or Y-axis. In yet other examples, a radius of curvature around the X-axis and the radius of curvature around the Y axis can be equivalent, resulting in a spherical shape or a spherical curve in the XY axis.

It is understood that the term "spherical" defines the curvature and does not imply a complete spherical shape, but rather a portion of the spherical curvature. However, the radii of curvature around the X and Y axes are not necessarily the same. In some examples, the radius of curvature around the Y axis may be greater than the radius of curvature around the X axis. In other examples, the radius of curvature around the X axis may be greater than the radius of curvature around the Y axis.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the arm may comprise application elements on at least a portion of the convex external surface. Application elements can be selected from a group consisting of teeth, flocking, textured surface and the like.

According to a preferred embodiment, the application elements are flocking. The flocking can be carried out on a portion of the convex outer surface mechanically, electrostatically or using a combination of these two technologies.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the arm of the molded applicator member has at least 10% coverage and no more than 90% coverage around the circumference/periphery of the twist wire brush. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the arm of the molded applicator element has at least 30% coverage and no more than 80% coverage around the circumference/periphery of the twist wire brush.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the molded applicator element further comprises a hole near a distal end of the arm or in a cap of the arm and the tail of the molded applicator element comprises a lumen.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a method is disclosed for assembling the twist wire brush and the molded applicator member to form the applicator head. According to this method, the twisted wire brush is inserted through the lumen of the molded applicator element for attachment such that the tip and the rear part of the twisted wire brush are received respectively in the hole and the lumen of the molded applicator element. In the assembled state, the tip of the twist wire brush is fixed in the hole of the first applicator element, the bristle portion of the twist wire brush is located axially adjacent to the concave inner surface of the element molded applicator and the rear part of the twisted wire brush is fixed inside the lumen of the molded applicator element.

In some instances, the tip of the twist wire brush may be secured in the hole of the molded applicator member using glue, an interference fit, or any other means known in the art. Similarly, the back portion of the twist wire brush can be secured inside the lumen using glue, a press fit, or any other means known in the art.

According to one embodiment, the tip of the twisted-wire brush is fixed in the hole of the first applicator element such that a distal end of the twisted-wire brush protrudes from the hole of the first applicator element.

In a preferred embodiment, the rear part of the twisted wire brush is held inside the lumen by means of a locking element. The locking element includes a housing which receives the rear part of the twisted wire brush. Furthermore, the locking element is retained in the lumen of the molded applicator element by means of a retaining element which takes the form of at least one annular groove present in the lumen, interacting with at least one annular bead corresponding formed on an outer surface of the locking element.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the twisted wire brush may have a cylindrical, non-cylindrical shape or alternatively a variable profile when the twisted wire brush is viewed in cross section. The cross section of the twisted wire brush can be centered or off-center.

In one of the preferred embodiments, the arm of the molded applicator element has a width which first increases from a proximal end towards a distal end of the arm. In other words, the width of the arm first increases from the base portion of the molded applicator element up to a certain length of the arm and then gradually decreases towards a free end of the arm.

In one of the preferred embodiments, in the side view of the molded applicator element, along the longitudinal axis X, the arm of the molded applicator element has a curvature which moves away from the longitudinal axis X then moves in the direction of the longitudinal axis X from a proximal portion to a distal portion of the arm, forming a forward and upward curved cap at the distal end portion of the arm.

In yet another preferred embodiment, in side view of the molded applicator member, from a proximal end to a distal end of the arm, the arm has a curvature comprising a generally longitudinally straight portion and an arcuate portion. 'curving forwards and upwards, curving smoothly inwards towards the longitudinal axis X, forming a curved cap at the distal portion of the arm.

In yet another preferred embodiment, in the side view of the molded applicator member, from a proximal end to a distal end of the arm, the arm has a curvature including a generally longitudinally straight portion and has a curvature only at the distal end portion forming a forwardly and upwardly curved cap at the distal end portion of the arm, i.e. the arm extends generally parallel to the 'longitudinal axis from a base portion of the molded applicator element and curves evenly inwards towards the longitudinal axis X and towards the distal end portion of the arm.

According to one of the preferred embodiments, the arm of the molded applicator element has a generally V-shaped cross-section forming a generally V-shaped concavity in the direction of its internal surface.

According to yet another preferred embodiment, the arm of the molded applicator element has a generally C-shaped cross-section forming a generally C-shaped concavity in the direction of its internal surface.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the molded applicator element may not be flocked.

In alternative embodiments, the arm of the molded applicator element may have any other desirable shape as long as it includes a longitudinal concavity for the at least partial accommodation of a twisted-wire brush and which extends around at least 10% of the periphery of the twist wire brush.

However, in an alternative embodiment, the plurality of application elements are designed to transport and apply a cosmetic product. In the present embodiment, the application elements are flock, however, in alternative embodiments, the application elements can be protrusions, hairs, teeth, flock, particles, ribs, discs, slots, cutouts, holes, depressions, foam or other surface features or surface treatments (e.g. abrasion) that are suitable for combing and/or loading, carrying and an application of a cosmetic product such as mascara, eye shadow, etc.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the plurality of applicator elements are distributed over at least 40% of an outer surface of the distal portion of the first applicator element.

In one exemplary use of the cosmetic applicator of the present invention, the cosmetic applicator can be used to apply product to eyebrows.

According to yet another aspect of the present embodiment, the longitudinal concavity of the molded applicator element promotes the retention of the cosmetic product which is available for loading, transport and application after the scraping of the applicator head.

According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, at least a portion of one of the molded applicator element and the twisted wire brush is covered with a flock coating.

According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the application bristles of the twist wire brush can be coated with a flock coating.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the molded applicator element can be made of a material selected from a group consisting of plastic, metal, alloy, ceramic, stone, wood, rubber, sintered or porous material and/or combinations of these.

A second embodiment of the present invention provides a cosmetic applicator comprising a portion of brush with twisted wires and a portion of molded brush in order to simultaneously perform the application of a cosmetic or care product and the arrangement of the bristles , eyebrows or eyelashes.

Therefore, a cosmetic packaging comprising a cosmetic applicator is provided according to the present invention and an associated container containing a product to be applied to the eyelashes and/or the eyebrows, for example, mascara or a care product. The product may comprise a solid, liquid, semi-liquid, creamy, powdery, pasty or viscous material.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the cosmetic applicator comprises a stem which is connected, at its upper end, to the gripping element and, at its lower end, to an applicator element having a looped configuration. Further, the applicator member can be used to apply cosmetic product such as mascara and the like to eyelashes or eyebrows to achieve multiple performance characteristics such as parting/combing, volumizing, curling and lengthening .

According to another aspect of the present invention, the applicator element comprises a twisted wire core having a looped configuration, in which the twisted wire core supports a twisted wire brush and a molded brush. The twisted wire core is made up of a pair of wire segments that are twisted together. The twisted wire core is bent to form a loop, that is, the twisted wire core is a looped core, and the free ends of the twisted core are connected with the shaft of the cosmetic applicator.

According to an alternative embodiment, the free ends of the core can be connected together.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the applicator element comprises a twisted-wire brush portion formed with said twisted-wire core and a molded brush portion also disposed on the twisted-wire core. The molded brush portion includes a molded support body having teeth.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the core with twisted yarns comprises at least two consecutive portions between two free ends of the core with twisted yarns. According to an embodiment of the present invention, one of the at least two portions is located near one of the two free ends of the core with twisted wires and in which the other of the at least two portions is located closer to the other of the two free ends of the twisted-wire core. The at least two consecutive portions of the twisted yarn core include a first portion and a second portion. Further, the first portion of the twisted yarn core includes the twisted yarn brush portion which is defined by a plurality of bristles secured between the pair of mutually twisted yarn segments of the twisted yarn core. The bristles are secured between the intertwined yarn segments of the trelle twisted yarn core so that opposite ends of each bristle extend radially from the twisted yarn core.

Various fibers can be used for the bristles, depending on the desired properties of the finished brush portion.

The second portion of the twisted yarn core includes the molded brush portion threaded over the twisted yarn core. The molded brush portion includes a passage through which the molded brush portion is threaded over the twisted yarn core. More specifically, the support body of the molded brush portion comprises a longitudinal passage traversed over its entire length by a second portion of the twisted-wire core in order to allow the attachment of one of the two free ends of the twisted-wire core to the stem. The molded brush portion is located between the stem and the twisted wire brush portion. Similarly, the twisted wire brush portion is located between the shaft and the molded brush portion.

In the preferred embodiment, the length of the second portion of the twisted yarn core occupied by the molded brush portion is less than the length occupied by the first portion of the twisted yarn core comprising the bristles of the wire brush portion twisted. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the first portion and the second portion are adjacent to each other in the loop defined by the twisted wire core and in which the second portion comprising the molded brush portion is located entirely on one side of a longitudinal axis of the applicator element and the first portion comprising the brush portion extends mainly on the other side of the longitudinal axis and also extends over a distal portion of the twisted-wire core forming a tip provided of hairs.

According to one embodiment, the twisted wire brush portion and the molded brush portion are arranged generally side by side in the continuous loop of the twisted wire core. Alternatively, the length occupied by the molded brush portion may be greater than the length occupied by the first portion of the twisted yarn core comprising the bristles of the twisted yarn brush portion. In alternate embodiments, the first portion of the twisted yarn core forming the twisted yarn brush portion and the second portion of the twisted yarn core are generally equal and coextensive in length. However, it is understood that configurations are contemplated in which the first portion of the twisted wire core forming the twisted wire brush portion and the second portion of the twisted wire core comprising the molded brush portion are not coextensive either because that each has a different length and/or because each has a length that is offset from the length of the other.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the applicator element comprises a single molded brush portion, but it is not beyond the scope of the present invention to provide a plurality of molded brush portions.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the twisted wire core defines a single opening which it completely surrounds, thanks to which the applicator element acquires a loop-like configuration comprising an internal reservoir chamber entirely included in the core to twisted wires. At least some bristles of the twisted wire brush portion and at least some teeth of the molded brush portion extend into the opening defined by the twisted wire core. More particularly, the bristles of the twisted wire brush portion and the teeth of the molded brush portion are intertwined in said reservoir, i.e. the inner bristles of the twisted wire brush portion and the teeth interiors of the molded brush portion meet and/or overlap, thereby forming an internal chamber or reservoir filled with bristles and teeth. According to one embodiment, the bristles and teeth extending into the chamber or reservoir provide surfaces for retaining a quantity of product applied by the applicator.

In an alternative embodiment, the bristles and prongs protruding inwardly from the loop/opening do not meet, resulting in a gap between their tips, thereby forming an open internal chamber or reservoir .

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the loop configuration of the twisted wire core or applicator element has a generally symmetrical oval shape. However, in alternative embodiments, said loop may have any desirable shape such as a rectangular shape, an asymmetrical teardrop shape, a circular shape or any other desirable shape.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the molded brush portion and the twisted wire brush portion are curved and follow the curve of the loop defined by the twisted wire core.

According to one embodiment, the ends of the twisted wire core are brought together in parallel and are arranged adjacent to each other along the longitudinal axis of the applicator to form a tail of the applicator head.

According to some embodiments, the bristles have free ends that define an envelope surface of the twisted wire brush portion and the free ends of the teeth define an envelope surface of the molded brush portion.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the bristles and the teeth have respective cylindrical envelopes. Therefore, the bristles are designed for combing and parting and the teeth for the application of the cosmetic product. The envelope surface of the twisted wire brush portion and the envelope surface of the molded brush portion can extend from one another without forming a discontinuity. However, as an embodiment of the present invention, the wrap surface of the twisted wire brush portion and the wrap surface of the molded brush portion may form a discontinuity.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the bristles considered for use with the present applicator element comprise a circular, non-circular or hollow cross-section or a combination thereof. The bristles can be natural fibers or plastic. In the case of plastic fibers, they may be polyamide, polyester or polyacrylic fibers.

The portion of brush with twisted wires and/or the portion of molded brush can be of cylindrical shape or, as a variant, of a generally variable shape, for example lenticular or drop-shaped or frustoconical. According to other embodiments, the twisted wire brush portion and/or the molded brush portion have a peanut or balloon shape.

When the twisted wire brush portion and/or the molded brush portion is viewed in cross section, the twisted wire core may be centered relative to the respective brush wrap. Alternatively, the twisted yarn core may be eccentric in the cross section of the twisted yarn brush portion and/or the molded brush portion. The support body of the molded brush portion may have a cross-section of any shape, for example circular.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the teeth contemplated for use with the present applicator element may have a cross-section or a combination of cross-sections selected from a group consisting of circular, non-circular, semi-circular, elliptical, semi-circular cross-sections. -elliptical, polygonal, more particularly triangular, square, rectangular, octagonal, parallelogram-shaped, diamond-shaped; ovals and the like. The teeth may optionally be rectilinear, for example each extending along a long axis for the tooth which is rectilinear, or they may be curved or they may even be wavy. The term "long axis of the tooth" is used to refer to an axis that passes through the centers of gravity of the cross sections of the tooth.

The teeth can be molded in one piece with the support body of the molded brush portion, said teeth can be of any shape and have any arrangement, for example a staggered configuration, or with their bases aligned.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the molded brush portion may be free to rotate on the twisted yarn core or it may be immobilized relative to the twisted yarn core.

It is possible to use, for the molding of the molded brush portion, a thermoplastic material which is relatively rigid or not, more particularly flexible, for example SEBS, a silicone, a latex, a butyl, a PEPDM, a nitrile , a thermoplastic elastomer, an elastomeric rubber, a polyester, a polyamide, a polyethylene or a vinyl, a polyolefin such as PE or PP, PVC, EVA, PS, PET, POM, PA or PMMA, PV, SIS or SEBS. More particularly, known materials such as Hytrel®, Cariflex®, Alixine®, Santoprene®, Pebax® can be used, this list not being exhaustive. The molded brush portion can also be made of metal. The teeth are made, in the example considered, in one piece by molding a thermoplastic material with the supporting body of the molded brush portion.

The teeth and the support body of the molded brush portion can be made of different materials.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the molded brush portion can be made with a flocking, the latter extending, for example only on the teeth or on the support body or on both.

The teeth may have, at their free end, a relief or a particular shape, for example a fork, a ball or a hook.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for forming the applicator element of the present invention. A method for producing the applicator element comprises the following steps:

(a) forming a twisted yarn brush portion in a first portion of a rectilinear twisted yarn core by securing a plurality of bristles between the pair of mutually twisted yarn segments of the first portion, such that the plurality of bristles extend radially therefrom;

(b) passing the second portion of the twisted yarn core through the molded brush portion passage so as to receive the molded brush portion in the second portion of the twisted yarn core; and

(c) folding the twisted yarn core to form a loop.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that many changes and modifications can be made to the preferred embodiments of the present invention and that such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Those skilled in the art may modify, combine or replace the elements of the embodiments described and not depart from the scope of the invention. For example, the shapes and/or sizes of the various components may be different from the shapes and sizes described herein. To give another example, the materials used for the various components may be different from those specifically mentioned herein. It is therefore understood that the appended claims are considered to cover all such equivalent variations which remain within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES: A fuller appreciation of the present invention and many of the advantages thereof can readily be obtained when these are better understood with reference to the following detailed description, considered in conjunction with the accompanying figures which show:

: A cross-sectional view of a cosmetic packaging comprising a cosmetic applicator according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

: An enlarged isometric view of an applicator head of the cosmetic applicator of Figure 1.

: a top view of the applicator head of figure 2.

: a side view of the applicator head of Figure 2.

: a cross-sectional view of the applicator head of Figure 4.

: a rear view of the applicator head of figure 2.

: An isometric view of an applicator head according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

: a front view of the applicator head of figure 7.

: a top view of the applicator head of figure 7.

: A left side view of the applicator head of Figure 7.

: a rear view of the applicator head of figure 7.

: A right side view of the applicator head of Figure 7.

: an exploded view of the applicator head of figure 7.

: a cross-sectional view of the applicator head of Figure 10.

: An isometric view of an applicator head according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

: a rear view of the applicator head of figure 15.

: a top view of the applicator head of figure 15.

: A left side view of the applicator head of Figure 15.

: a front view of the applicator head of figure 15.

: A right side view of the applicator head of Figure 15.

: A cross-sectional view of a cosmetic packaging comprising a cosmetic applicator according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

: A perspective view of a portion of the cosmetic applicator of the cosmetic packaging of Figure 21.

: a front view of the portion of the cosmetic applicator of figure 22.

: a cross-sectional view of the portion of the cosmetic applicator of Figure 22.

: an exploded view of an applicator element of the cosmetic applicator represented in figure 22.

: a first step in the manufacturing process of the applicator element of FIG. 22 according to the present invention.

: a second step in the manufacturing process of the applicator element of FIG. 22 according to the present invention.

: a third step of the manufacturing process of the applicator element of FIG. 22 according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION: As shown in the figures, like references designate like or corresponding elements. Although representative embodiments have been described and illustrated above, it is understood that these are only examples of the invention and should not be considered limiting. Additions, deletions, substitutions and other modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the present invention should not be construed as limited by the foregoing description.

In this specification, the terms "includes", "comprising", and the like consistently mean that a set of objects is not limited to those specifically mentioned objects.

Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a cosmetic packaging 1. The cosmetic packaging 1 comprises a receptacle 200 for containing a product (not shown) and a cosmetic applicator 100. The cosmetic applicator 100 comprises a applicator head 10, stem 20, and cap 30. Cap 30 of applicator 100 includes threads 32 that can be screwed onto threads 202 formed on a neck 204 of receptacle 200. A scraper 206 for scraping the excess product from the applicator 100 is inserted into the neck 204 of the receptacle 200. The scraper 206 also includes an annular bead 208 allowing interlocking with a corresponding annular groove 210 on the inside of the neck 204 of the receptacle 200.

The distal end of the rod 20 includes an interior longitudinal cavity 22 for housing and holding the applicator head 10. The cosmetic applicator 100 can be used to apply the product (not shown) comprising a cosmetic product or care. The cosmetic or care product includes viscous cosmetics, mascara, eyebrow powder, lip gloss, hair coloring, skin care, dark circle cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and the like.

As shown in Figure 1, the cosmetic applicator 100 includes the applicator head 10 held at the distal end of the rod 20 for product application; and cap 30 is held at a proximal end of shaft 20. Figures 2-6 show applicator head 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the applicator head 10 comprises a first applicator element 2 and a second applicator element 3, and wherein the first applicator element 2 is adapted to house and hold the second applicator element 3. In an exemplary embodiment , the first applicator element 2 is a molded applicator element and the second applicator element 3 is a brush with twisted threads. The twisted yarn brush 3 includes a twisted yarn core 3a and a plurality of bristles 3b extending from the core 3a. In addition, the twisted wire brush 3 comprises a tip 4a, a portion provided with bristles 4b and a rear part 4c devoid of bristles 3b, as seen in Figure 5.

According to an exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 6, the molded applicator element 2 comprises a proximal portion 2a and a distal portion 2b. According to one aspect of the present invention, the proximal portion 2a of the molded applicator element 2 is formed as a cylindrical shaft 2a which is designed to be received inside the cavity 22 of the stem 20. The molded applicator element 2 can be fixed to the stem by force, more particularly by snap-fastening, gluing, welding or crimping of the tail 2a of the molded applicator element 2 in the cavity 22 of the stem 20 provided at the distal end of the stem 20.

More particularly, the tail 2a of the molded applicator element 2 comprises at least one annular bead 11 and the internal surface of the cavity 22 of the rod comprises a corresponding annular groove 23. When the proximal/tail end portion 2a of the applicator head 10 is inserted into the inner longitudinal cavity 22 of the rod 20, the at least one bead 11 is snapped into the corresponding annular groove 23.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the distal portion 2b of the first application element 2 comprises a base portion 2c and an arm 2d which extends along a longitudinal axis X of the applicator head 10 from the base portion 2c of the molded applicator element. Arm 2d includes a curve on an X-Y axis with a concave inner surface 5a and a convex outer surface 5b, opposite the inner surface. By curve in the XY axis, it is meant that the arm 2d is curved both around the longitudinal axis X (i.e. curved from top to bottom, see Figure 5) and around a horizontal axis Y (i.e. curved from left to right, see figure 3), i.e. it is curved around two mutually perpendicular axes. Specifically, the y axis is perpendicular to the x axis.

In some examples, the 2d arm can be curved either around one axis or around both X and Y axes. The 2d arm can therefore have a semi-spherical curvature around the X axis and/or the Y axis .

In alternative embodiments, arm 2d may have an arcuate curvature with varying curvature along the X-axis and/or Y-axis. In yet other examples, a radius of curvature around the X axis and the radius of curvature around the Y axis can be equivalent, thus producing a spherical shape or a spherical curve of XY axis.

It is understood that the term "spherical" defines the curvature and does not imply a complete spherical shape, but rather a portion of the spherical curvature. However, the radii of curvature around the X and Y axes are not necessarily equal. In some examples, the radius of curvature around the Y axis may be greater than the radius of curvature around the X axis. In other examples, the radius of curvature around the X axis may be greater than the radius of curvature around the Y axis. the arm 2d of the molded applicator element 2 therefore comprises a longitudinal concavity 5d in the direction of the internal surface 5a which is configured to house at least partially at least a portion of the twisted-wire brush 3 .

According to one embodiment, the concavity 5d forms a space to contain a quantity of product to be applied to a keratinous surface. According to another embodiment, the bristles of the brush 3 extend into the concavity 5d in order to provide additional surfaces for the retention and transport of the product during use. When the applicator is removed from the container 200 such that the applicator head 10 passes through the scraper 206, the product is retained within the concavity 5d and/or on the bristles extending into the concavity. , the product does not contact scraper 206. Instead, this retained product is available for application to the keratinous surface.

As seen in Figures 4 and 5, in the side view of the molded applicator element 2, the arm 2d has a curvature which moves away from the longitudinal axis X from a proximal end towards a distal end of the arm 2d, forming a curved cap 5c curving forward and upward at the distal end of arm 2d.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the arm 2d may have application elements 6 on at least a portion of the convex outer surface 5b. Application elements 6 can be selected from a group consisting of teeth, flocking, textured surface and the like. As seen in Figures 1 to 6, the application elements 6 are flocking. The flocking 6 can be performed on a portion of the convex outer surface 4b mechanically, electrostatically or using a combination of these two technologies.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the arm 2d of the molded applicator element 2 has a coverage of at least 10% and a maximum of 90% around the circumference/periphery of the twisted wire brush 3. According to a In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the arm 2d of the molded applicator member 2 has a coverage of at least 30% and a maximum of 80% around the circumference/periphery of the twist wire brush 3.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, as shown in Figure 5, the molded applicator element 2 further comprises a hole 7a near a distal end of the arm 2d and the tail 2a of the applicator element 2 molded includes a light 7b.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, to assemble the twisted wire brush 3 and the molded applicator element 2 in order to form the applicator head 10, the twisted wire brush 3 is inserted through the lumen 7b of the applicator element 2 molded for fixing such that the tip 4a and the rear part 4c of the brush with twisted threads 3 are housed respectively in the hole 7a and in the slot 7b of the applicator element 2 molded. This means that, in the assembled state, the tip 4a of the twisted wire brush 3 is fixed in the hole 7a of the first applicator element 2, the portion provided with bristles 4b of the twisted wire brush 3 is located axially adjacent to the concave internal surface 5a of the molded applicator element 2 and the rear part of the twisted-wire brush 3 is fixed inside the slot 7b of the molded applicator element 2.

In some examples, the tip 4a of the twist wire brush 3 may be attached to the hole 7a by glue, an interference fit, or any other means known in the art. Similarly, the rear portion 4c of the twist wire brush 3 can be fixed inside the lumen 7b by gluing, press fitting or by any means known in the art. According to one embodiment and as shown, the tip 4a of the twisted-wire brush 3 is fixed in the hole 7a of the first applicator element 2 such that a distal end of the twisted-wire brush 3 protrudes towards the outside from the hole 7a of the molded applicator element 2.

In the embodiment shown, the rear part 4c of the twisted wire brush 3 is held inside the lumen 7b by means of a locking element 8. The locking element 8 comprises a housing 8a which receives the rear part 4c of the twisted wire brush 3. In addition, in this embodiment, the locking element 8 is held in the lumen 7b of the molded applicator element 2 by means of a retaining element which takes the form of at least one annular groove 9 present in the slot 7b interacting with at least one corresponding annular bead 8b formed on an outer surface of the locking element 8.

According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the twisted yarn brush 3 may have a cylindrical, non-cylindrical or alternatively a variable profile when the twisted yarn brush is seen in cross section. The cross section of the twisted wire brush 3 can be centered or eccentric.

According to yet another aspect of the present embodiment, the arm 2d has a width which first increases and then decreases from a proximal end to a distal end of the arm 2d, as seen in FIG. 6. In other words , the width of the arm 2d first increases from the base portion 2c to a certain length of the arm 2d then gradually decreases towards a free end of the arm 2d.

Figures 7 to 14 show a variant of the applicator head of the present invention according to a second embodiment. The applicator head 40 is similar to the applicator head 10 except that the first application element of the applicator head 40 and that of the applicator head have different shapes.

As seen in Figures 7 to 14, the applicator head 40 comprises a first molded applicator element 42 and a second applicator element comprising a twisted wire brush 43. The molded applicator element 42 receives and holds the second applicator element 43 in a manner similar to that described above for the first embodiment of the applicator head.

As seen in Figure 13, the molded applicator member 42 includes a hole 47a near a distal end of an arm 42d of the molded applicator member 42 which receives a tip 41a of the twist wire brush 43 of such that a distal end of the twisted wire brush 43 protrudes outward from the hole 47a and a tail 42a of the molded applicator member 42 includes a lumen 47b to receive a rear portion 41c of the wire brush twisted 43 which is held inside the lumen 47b by means of a locking element 48.

According to Figures 7 to 12, the arm 42d is curved in both a longitudinal axis X and a horizontal axis Y of the applicator head 40. The arm 42d includes a concave inner surface 49a and a convex outer surface 49b opposite the inner surface 49a. Arm 42d of molded applicator member 42 includes opposing sides 46a and 46b interconnected by a smooth transition side 46c, see Figure 9.

As with the previous embodiment, the concavity formed by the concave internal surface 49a forms a reservoir to contain a quantity of product to be applied by the user. According to one embodiment, brush bristles 43 extend into this concavity and provide additional surfaces to contain the product. Because the product is contained by the concavity, when the applicator is withdrawn from the container 200, the scraper 206 does not contact the interior of the concavity or the bristles extending into the concavity, allowing to the product contained within to be available to the user for application to a keratinous surface.

The arm 42d has a generally V-shaped cross-section (not shown) forming a generally V-shaped concavity towards its internal surface 49a. The inner surface 49a faces the central longitudinal axis of the applicator head 40.

As seen in the side view of the molded applicator member 42, the arm 42d has a curvature including an arcuate portion curving forward and upward 45a curving gradually inward toward the axis X and a generally longitudinally straight proximal portion 45b.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the molded applicator element 42 may not be flocked as shown in Figures 7 to 12.

Figures 15 to 20 show a variant of the applicator head of the present invention according to a third embodiment. The applicator head 50 is similar to the applicator heads 10 and 40 except that the molded applicator element 52 has a different shape. An arm 52d of the molded applicator member 52 extends along a central longitudinal axis X of the applicator head 50. The arm 52d is curved in the transverse axis Y of the applicator head 50. The arm 52d includes a concave inner surface 59a and a convex outer surface 59b opposite the concave inner surface 59a. Arm 52d of molded applicator member 52 includes a semi-cylindrical side wall having a generally C-shaped cross-section (not shown) forming a generally C-shaped concavity toward its inner surface 59a. Again, as described with reference to previous embodiments, this concavity and brush bristles 53 extending into this concavity form a reservoir to contain the product.

As seen in the side view of molded applicator member 52, arm 52d includes a generally longitudinally straight portion 55b along the longitudinal axis X and has a curvature at the distal end portion forming a cap. curving forward and upward 55a at the distal end portion of arm 52d, i.e., arm 52d extends generally parallel to longitudinal axis X from a base portion 52c of the molded applicator element 52 and gradually curves inwards in the direction of the longitudinal axis V towards the distal end portion of the arm 52d.

In alternative embodiments, the first applicator element 2, 42, 52 may have any other desirable shape as long as it includes a longitudinal concavity to at least partially accommodate a twisted wire brush and extends around at least 10 % of the periphery of the twisted wire brush 3, 43, 53.

However, in an alternative embodiment, the plurality of application elements are designed to transport and apply the cosmetic product. In the present embodiment, the application elements are flocking, however, in alternative embodiments, the application elements may be protrusions, hairs, teeth, particles, ridges, grooves, disks, slits, cutouts, holes, depressions, foam or any other surface feature or surface treatment (eg abrasion) desirable for combing and/or loading, transport and application cosmetic product such as mascara, eye shadow, etc.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the plurality of applicator elements 9 is spread over at least 40% of an outer surface of the distal portion of the first applicator element 2, 42, 52. In an exemplary use of the cosmetic applicator 100 of the present invention, the cosmetic applicator 100 can be used for applying a product to eyebrows.

According to yet another aspect of the present embodiment, the longitudinal concavity of the molded applicator element 2, 42, 52 favors the retention of the cosmetic product which is available for loading, transport and application after the scraping of the head. of applicator 10.

According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, at least a portion of one of the molded applicator element (2, 42, 52) and the twisted wire brush (3, 43, 53) is covered with a coating by flocking. According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the application bristles 3b of the twisted wire brush 3 can be covered with a coating by flocking.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the molded applicator element 2, 42, 52 can be made of a material selected from a group consisting of plastic, alloy, ceramic, wood, rubber, of a sintered or porous material and/or combinations thereof.

FIG. 21 represents a cosmetic packaging 1 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, comprising a cosmetic applicator 100 and an associated container 200 containing a product P to be applied to the eyelashes and/or eyebrows, for example mascara or a care product. The product may comprise a solid, liquid, semi-liquid, creamy, powdery, pasty or viscous material.

The container 200 comprises, in the example considered, a threaded neck 32 and the cosmetic applicator 100 comprises a gripping element 30 also constituting a closing cap arranged to be fixed to the neck 32 in order to close the container 200 in a sealed manner. .

The cosmetic applicator 100 comprises a stem 20, which is connected, at its upper end, to the gripping element 30 and, at its lower end, to an applicator element 60 having a loop configuration. Additionally, the applicator member 60 can be used for applying a cosmetic product such as mascara or the like to eyelashes or eyebrows to achieve multiple performance characteristics such as parting/combing, volumization, curling and elongation.

The container 200 also includes a scraper element 206, for example, inserted into the neck 32. This scraper element 206 cleans the rod 20 and the applicator element 60 when the cosmetic applicator 100 is removed from the container 200.

In the example considered, a longitudinal axis of the rod 20 is rectilinear, but it is not beyond the scope of this invention that the rod 20 is not rectilinear and forms, for example a curved rod 20 .

As seen in Figures 22-23, the applicator member 60 comprises a twisted wire core 21 which is elongated along a longitudinal axis X. The twisted wire core 21 is made up of a pair of segments d son 21a, 21b which are twisted together. The twisted wire core 21 is bent to form a loop, that is, the twisted wire core 21 is a looped core 21, and the free ends of the twisted wire core 21 are connected to the rod 20, as this is shown in Figure 24.

According to an alternative embodiment, the free ends of the core 21 can be connected together – not shown in the figure – to form a handle. According to one embodiment, the ends of the twisted-wire core 21 are brought parallel to each other and arranged adjacent to each other along the longitudinal axis of the applicator to form a tail of the applicator head. This tail can be inserted into the distal end of stem 20, as shown in Figure 24.

According to FIGS. 22 to 25, the applicator element 60 comprises twisted-wire brush portions 25 with a twisted-wire core 21 and a molded brush portion 26 disposed on the twisted-wire core 21. The molded brush portion 26 comprises a support body 26a having teeth 27, as shown in Figure 22.

More specifically, as shown in Figures 26a and 26b, the twisted wire core 21 comprises at least two portions P1, P2 and wherein one of the at least two portions P1, P2 is located near one of the two free ends of the twisted-wire core 21 and in which the other of the at least two portions P1, P2 is closer to the two free ends of the twisted-wire core 21. In addition, a first portion P1 of the twisted-wire core 21 is occupied by the twisted yarn brush portion 25 which consists of a plurality of bristles 25a fixed between the pair of mutually twisted yarn segments 21a, 21b. The bristles 25a are secured between the intertwined yarn segments 21a, 21b of the twisted yarn core such that opposite ends of each pile 25a extend radially from the twisted yarn core 21. Various fibers may be used for the bristles 25a, depending on the desired properties of the finished twisted wire brush portion 25.

A second portion P2 of the twisted yarn core 21 is occupied by the molded brush portion 26 which is slipped over the twisted yarn core 21. The molded brush portion 26 comprises a through passage 26b (see FIG. of molded brush 26 is threaded onto the twisted wire core 21. More specifically, the support body 26a of the molded brush portion 26 has a longitudinal transverse passage 26b, traversed over its entire length by the second portion P2 of the wire core twisted wires 21 to allow attachment of one of the two ends of the twisted wire core 21 to the rod 20. The molded brush portion 26 is located between the rod 20 and the twisted wire brush portion 25. Similarly, the molded brush portion 26 is Twisted wire brush portion 25 is located between stem 20 and molded brush portion 26.

In the preferred embodiment, shown in Figures 21 and 22, the length of the second portion P2 of the twisted wire core 21 occupied by the molded applicator portion 26 is less than the length occupied by the first portion P1 of the core. brush 21 comprising the bristles 25a of the twisted wire brush portion 25. In the preferred embodiment, as shown in Figures 22 and 26b, the first portion P1 and the second portion P2 are adjacent to each other in the loop defined by the twisted wire core 21 and in which the second portion P2 comprising the molded brush portion 26 is located entirely on one side of a longitudinal axis of the applicator element 60 and the first portion P comprising the brush portion twisted son 25 extends mainly on the other side of the longitudinal axis and on a distal portion forming a tip provided with bristles 25b fan. The twisted wire brush portion 25 and the molded brush portion 26 are therefore arranged generally side by side in the continuous loop of the twisted wire core 21.

In an alternative embodiment, the length P2 occupied by the molded brush portion 26 may be greater than the length occupied by the first portion P1 of the twisted-wire core 21 comprising the bristles 25a of the twisted-wire brush portion 25. In still other alternative embodiments, the first portion P1 of the twisted yarn core 21 forming the twisted yarn brush portion 25 and the second portion P2 of the twisted yarn core 21 generally have equal and coextensive lengths. However, it is understood that configurations are contemplated wherein the first portion P1 of the twisted wire core 21 forming the twisted wire brush portion 25 and the second portion P2 of the twisted wire core 21 comprising the molded brush portion 26 , are not coextensive either because each has a different length and/or because each has a length offset from the length of the other.

In the example shown in Figures 21-26c, the applicator member 60 comprises a single molded brush portion 26, but it is not beyond the scope of the present invention to do otherwise. .

According to Figures 22 to 24, the twisted wire core 21 defines a single opening 12 which it entirely surrounds, thanks to which the applicator element 60 acquires a loop-shaped configuration comprising an internal chamber or reservoir 12 entirely surrounded by the twisted wire core 21. At least some bristles 25a of the twisted wire brush portion 25 and at least some teeth 27 of the molded brush portion 26 extend into the opening 12 defined by the twisted wire core. More particularly, the bristles 25a of the twisted wire brush portion 25 and the teeth 27 of the molded brush portion 26 are interwoven in said reservoir 12, i.e. the inner bristles 25a and the inner teeth 27 meeting and/or overlapping, thereby forming an internal chamber or reservoir 12 filled with bristles 25a and teeth 27. opening 12 do not meet, allowing a gap to be formed between their tips, thereby forming an internal chamber or open reservoir 12, as shown in Figure 26c. According to one embodiment, the distal end 20a of the rod 20 constitutes a tail for the housing of the ends of the core with twisted wires 21, as shown in Figure 24.

The opening 12 formed by the looped twisted-wire core 21 forms a reservoir to contain a quantity of product to be applied by the user. According to one embodiment, bristles 25a and prongs 27 extend into this opening and provide additional surfaces for retaining product. Because the product is retained by the opening, when the applicator is withdrawn from the container 200, the scraper 206 does not come into contact with the interior of the opening 12 and also does not come into contact with the bristles 25a and teeth 27 which extend into opening 12, thereby allowing product retained therein to be available for the user to apply to a keratinous surface.

In the embodiment according to Figures 22 to 24, the loop configuration of the twisted wire core 21 or the applicator element 60 has a generally symmetrical oval shape. However, in alternative embodiments, said loop may have any desirable shape such as a rectangular shape, an asymmetrical teardrop shape, a circular configuration or any other desirable shape.

As seen in Figures 21 - 22, molded brush portion 26 and twisted wire brush portion 25 are curved and follow the curve of the loop defined by twisted wire core 21.

Further, the bristles 25a have free ends defining the envelope surface of the twisted wire brush portion 25 and the free ends of the teeth 27 define the envelope surface of the molded brush portion 26. As shown in Figures 21 to 25, the bristles 25a and the teeth 27 have a cylindrical envelope surface. Therefore, the bristles 25a are designed for combing and parting of eyelashes or eyebrows and the teeth 27 are designed for the application of the cosmetic product. The envelope surface of the twisted wire brush portion 25 and the envelope surface of the molded brush portion 26 can be in extension of each other without forming a discontinuity. However, as seen in Figures 22 - 23, the wrap surface of the twisted wire brush portion 25 and the wrap surface of the molded brush portion 26 are not aligned and form a discontinuity.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the bristles 25a for use with the present applicator member 60 have a circular, non-circular, or hollow cross-section, or a combination thereof. The bristles 25a can be made of natural fibers or of plastic material. In the case of plastic fibres, these may be polyamide, polyester or polyacrylic fibres.

The twisted wire brush portion 25 and/or the molded brush portion 26 may have a cylindrical shape or alternatively a generally variable shape, for example lenticular or drop-shaped or frustoconical. Alternatively, the twisted wire brush portion 25 and/or the molded brush portion 26 may have a shape similar to a peanut or ball. When twisted wire brush portion 25 and/or molded brush portion 26 is viewed in cross section, twisted wire core 21 may be centered (not shown). Alternatively, twisted yarn core 21 may be eccentric in cross section of twisted yarn portion 25 and/or molded brush portion 26. Support body 26a of molded brush portion 26 may have a cross section of any shape, for example circular, as shown in Figure 25, or polygonal.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the teeth 27 intended to be used with the present applicator element 24 can have a cross section or a combination of cross sections of circular, non-circular, elliptical, semi-elliptical, polygonal, more particularly triangular shapes. , square, rectangular, octagonal, parallelograms, rhombuses; ovals and similar cross-sections. The teeth 27 may optionally be rectilinear, for example each extending along a length for the teeth which is rectilinear or they may be curved or they may even be wavy. The term "long axis of the teeth" is used to designate an axis which passes through the centers of gravity of the cross sections of the teeth 27.

The teeth 27 can be molded in one piece with the support body 26a, said teeth 27 being able to be of any shape and present any arrangement, for example a staggered configuration, or with their bases aligned.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the molded brush portion 26 may be free to rotate on the twisted wire core 21 or it may be immobilized relative to the twisted wire core 21.

It is possible to use, for the molding of the brush portion 26, a thermoplastic material which is relatively rigid or not, more particularly flexible, for example SEBS, a silicone, a latex, a butyl, a PEPDM, a nitrile , a thermoplastic elastomer, polyester, polyamide, polyethylene or vinyl, a polyolefin such as PE or PP, PVC, EVA, PS, PET, POM, PA or PMMA, PV, SIS or SEBS. More particularly, known materials such as Hytrel®, Cariflex®, Alixine®, Santoprene®, Pebax® can be used, this list not being exhaustive. The molded brush portion 26 can also be made of metal. The teeth 27 are manufactured, in the example considered, in one piece by molding a thermoplastic material with the support body 26a.

Teeth 27 and support body 26a may be made of different materials if appropriate.

The molded brush portion 26 can be made with a flocking, the latter extending for example on the teeth 27 only or on the support body 26a only or on both. The teeth 27 may have, at their free end, a relief or a particular shape, for example a fork, a ball or a hook.

The scraper 206 can be made of a rigid or elastomeric material. The scraper 206 can be made of a material, for example a polyolefin or an elastomer. The polyolefin can be polyethylene, for example, such as low or high density polyethylene.

The rod 20 can be rectilinear, curved, it can be flexible, it can have a bend, etc. The handle and the rod 20 can be made of a plastic material (for example polypropylene (PP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyoxymethylene (POM)), or any other suitable material.

The product P can be in the form of, for example, a powder, a liquid, a gel, a cream, an oil-based product, a product based on water or the like.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, container 200 may be made of plastic, glass, or any other suitable material known in the art.

According to Figures 26a-26c, a method is provided for forming the applicator member 60 of the present invention. A method of manufacturing the applicator element 60 comprises the following steps

(a) forming a twisted yarn brush portion 25 in a first portion P1 of a rectilinear twisted yarn core 21 by securing a plurality of bristles 25a between the pair of mutually twisted yarn segments 21a, 21b of the first portion P1, such that the plurality of bristles 25a extend radially therefrom.

(b) passing the second portion P2 of the twisted yarn core 21 through the through passage 26b of the molded brush portion 26 so as to receive the molded brush portion 26 in the second portion P2 of the twisted yarn core 21.

(c) folding the twisted yarn core 21 to form a loop.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that many changes and modifications can be made to preferred embodiments of the present invention and that such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the true spirit of the present invention. It is therefore understood that the appended claims can be considered to cover all such equivalent variations and to be within the true spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims (20)

Applicator assembly (1) for applying a substance to a keratinous surface, comprising
a container (200) to hold the substance;
an applicator (100) comprising a shaft (20) and an applicator head (10, 40, 50, 60) disposed along a longitudinal axis, the applicator head (10, 40, 50, 60) comprising :
a tail (2a, 20a, 42a);
a first applicator element (2, 42, 52, 26) comprising one or more lumens (7a, 7b, 47a, 47b, 26b);
a second applicator element (3, 43, 53, 25) comprising a plurality of bristles (3b, 25a) supported by and extending radially from a core (3a, 21), in which the core (3a, 21) is connected with and extends from the tail (2a, 20a, 42a) in a distal direction, wherein the core (3a, 21) extends through the lumen (7a, 7b, 47a, 47b, 26b) to connect the first applicator element (2, 42, 52, 26) at the tail and the second applicator element; and
a reservoir portion (5d, 12) formed between the first applicator element (2, 42, 52, 26) and the second applicator element (3, 43, 53, 25), in which a portion of the plurality of bristles (3b , 25a) extends into the reservoir portion (5d, 12) and wherein a portion of the substance can be removably held in the reservoir (5d, 12) and on surfaces of the bristle portion (3b, 25a). Assembly according to Claim 1, in which the first applicator element (2, 42, 52, 26) is elastically deformable. An assembly according to claim 1, wherein the container further comprises a scraper (206) disposed to surround the stem (20) when the applicator (100) is in an inserted state, and to contact an outer surface of the applicator head (10, 40, 50, 60) when the applicator (100) is withdrawn from the container (200) in an extended state, wherein when the applicator is moved from the inserted state to the deployed state, the portion of the substance remains in the reservoir (5d, 12). An assembly according to claim 3, wherein when the applicator head (10, 40, 50, 60) is in contact with the scraper (206), the first applicator element (2, 42, 52, 26) is moved in direction of the second applicator element (3, 43, 53, 25). An assembly according to claim 1, wherein the core (3a, 21) comprises two twisted yarns (21a, 21b) and wherein the plurality of bristles (25a, 3b) are captured between the twisted yarns (21a, 21b). Assembly according to Claim 5, in which the first applicator element (2, 42, 52, 26) comprises two lumens, a first lumen (7b) proximal to the reservoir and a second lumen (7a) distal to the reservoir (5d), in which the core (3a, 21) extends from the tail (2a, 42a) and passes through the first and second lumens. Assembly according to claim 6, in which the tail (2a, 42a) comprises a locking element (8) connected to the core (3a, 21) and in which the locking element is inserted in the first lumen (7b). Assembly according to Claim 7, in which the first lumen (7b) comprises a first interlocking element (9) on its internal surface and the locking element comprises a second interlocking element (8) on its external surface, in wherein the engagement between the first and second locking elements secures the first applicator element (2, 42, 52, 26) with the second applicator element (3, 43, 53, 25). Assembly according to Claim 8, in which the first and second interlocking elements comprise an annular groove (9) and an annular bead (8) or vice versa. An assembly according to claim 6, wherein a distal end of the core (4a) extends through the second lumen (7a) and wherein the distal end of the core is secured with the second lumen by a glue or press fit . Assembly according to Claim 6, in which the first applicator element (2, 42, 52, 26) comprises a convex outer surface (5b, 49b, 59b) and a concave inner surface (5a), the concave inner surface (5b, 49b , 59b) forming a wall of the tank (5d). Assembly according to Claim 11, in which the first applicator element (2, 42, 52, 26) has a cross section between the first and second slots (7a, 7b) and cross section with respect to the longitudinal axis, which has a shape of V or C. An assembly according to claim 5, wherein the first applicator member (26) comprises a cylindrical support body (26a) and a plurality of teeth (27) extending radially outward from the support body and wherein the lumen (26b) includes a passage through the axis of the support body. Assembly according to claim 13, in which the core (21) forms a loop, in which the ends of the core are connected with the tail (20a) and in which the reservoir (12) is formed inside the loop. An assembly according to claim 14, wherein portions of the plurality of bristles (25a) and portions of the plurality of teeth (27) extend into the reservoir (12). Assembly according to Claim 14, in which a portion of the bristles (25b) of the second applicator element is arranged at a distal end of the loop. Applicator head (10, 40, 50, 60) for applying a substance to a keratinous surface, comprising:
a tail (2a, 42a);
a twisted wire brush (3, 43, 53), a proximal end of the brush being connected to the tail (2a, 42a), the brush extending from the tail (2a, 42a) in a distal direction, the brush being formed of two twisted yarns (3a, 21a) and a plurality of bristles (3b) captured between the twisted yarns and extending radially outward from the twisted yarns;
a molded applicator element (2, 42, 52), a proximal end of the applicator element being connected to the tail (2a, 42a), the applicator element extending from the tail generally in the distal direction, wherein the applicator element comprises
a convex outer surface (5b, 49b, 59b),
a concave inner surface (5a, 49a, 59a) forming a concavity (5d) and
a hole (7a) near a distal end of the applicator element,
in which a distal end of the twisted wires (3a) is engaged in the hole,
wherein a portion of the bristles (3b) extends into the concavity (5d) and
wherein the concavity (5d) forms a reservoir for containing the substance. An applicator head according to claim 17, wherein the molded applicator member (2, 42, 52) further comprises a generally longitudinally straight portion (45b, 55b) extending distally from the tail (2a, 42a) and a curved cap (45a, 55a) at the distal end, wherein the curved cap traverses the longitudinal axis of the applicator. An applicator head according to claim 17, wherein the concavity (5d) extends radially around a portion of the bristle brush (3, 43, 53, 25) between more than 40% coverage and less than 50 % around a circumference of the brush (3, 43, 53). Applicator head (10, 40, 50, 60) for applying a substance to a keratinous surface, comprising:
a tail (20a);
a twisted bristle brush (3, 43, 53, 25), the brush being formed of two twisted wires (3a, 21a, 21b) and a plurality of bristles (3b, 25a) caught between the twisted bristles and extending radially outward from the twisted yarns along a first portion of the twisted yarns; and
a molded applicator element (2, 26, 42, 52), the applicator element being formed of a cylindrical support body (26a), a lumen (26b) formed through the axis of the support body and a plurality of teeth (27) extending from an outer surface of the support body, the applicator element surrounding a second portion of the twisted threads (3a, 21, 21b),
wherein both ends of the twisted wires (3a, 21a, 21b) are attached to a distal end of the tail (20a),
wherein the twisted wires (3a, 21a, 21b) are formed into a loop,
wherein the loop forms a reservoir (12) to contain the substance.