KR100749076B1 - A cosmetic applicator - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to an applicator for applying substance (V), in particular to nails, wherein the applicator is:

As a bundle of bristle, the bundle comprises at least two kinds of bristle, and / or a bristle having a non-circular cross section, and / or a bristle having a non-linear bristle, in particular a bristle having a relief;

A stem supporting the bundle of bristle;

A lid forming a space to cooperate with at least a portion of the stem and its length to provide a reservoir of material

It includes.

Description

Cosmetic applicator {A cosmetic applicator}

1 is a schematic side view of an apparatus for applying a substance to a fingernail, in a closed state;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the device of FIG. 1, showing the receiver open; FIG.

3 shows a longitudinal cross section of the device of FIG. 2;

4 is a schematic axial cross-sectional view of the stem and cover of FIG. 3 with the applicator element omitted;

5 is a view of a state in which the cover of FIG. 3 is removed;

FIG. 6 is a bottom view taken along VI of FIG. 4; FIG.

7 shows the end of a bristle bundle of the device of FIGS. 1-3;

8 is a partial longitudinal cross-sectional view of a variant embodiment in which the stem is integrally made into a cover and a single piece;

FIG. 9 is a partial, schematic view of a bristle bundle comprising at least two bristle bundles providing different profiles; FIG.

10 and 11 are schematic and partial side views illustrating a detached state of bristle with ups and downs;

12-28 illustrate various examples of Bristol cross sections;

29-33 show examples of Bristol ends;

FIG. 34 is a schematic, partial axial cross-sectional view of the stem supporting the sheath and the bristle bundle, wherein the sheath forms a space that allows material to be retained in concert with the stem only; FIG.

35 is an exploded view of the lid including a notch at its remote end;

36 is a front view of an embodiment of a sheath surrounding a stem having an elliptical cross section;

FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view on VII-VII of FIG. 36;

38 and 39 are diagrams in which the stem and cover have complementary parts that are relief;

40 is a cross-sectional view showing a stem providing two outer depressions, with Bristle not shown;

FIG. 41 shows the stem of FIG. 40 surrounded by a lid;

FIGS. 42 to 48 are views similar to FIG. 40 showing other examples of stems;

49-54 are schematic cross-sectional views showing various examples of the shape of a housing for receiving a bristle bundle;

55-58 show different terminal profiles for Bristol bundles;

59-61 show some examples of bristle bundles providing different types of cross sections;

FIG. 62 is a partial, schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view showing that the lid has relief portions on its inner surface; FIG.

63 and 64 are schematic, partial axial cross-sectional views illustrating alternative embodiments of the neck of the receiver;

65 and 66 show other embodiments of the apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 67 is a partial longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the receiver with a widened neck;

FIG. 68 is a partial longitudinal sectional view showing the receiver having a wiper member; FIG.

69 is a partial longitudinal cross sectional view of a variant embodiment of the stem;

70 and 71 illustrate two methods of positioning a staple that functions to secure the bristle bundle to the housing of the corresponding stem;

FIG. 72 illustrates replacing a bristle bundle with another applicator element; FIG.

73 is a view of an example of a sealed cap in a detached state;

FIG. 74 is a partial, schematic cross-sectional view of the cap of FIG. 73;

FIG. 75 is a schematic cross-sectional view on L′ V−L′V of FIG. 74;

FIG. 76 is a schematic view along LVVI in FIG. 74;

77 is a variant embodiment of a receiver;

FIG. 78 is a view similar to FIG. 2, illustrating a variant embodiment;

FIG. 79 is a sectional view taken along L ′ in FIG. 78, with the Bristol omitted for clarity;

FIG. 80 is a view similar to FIG. 79, illustrating a variant embodiment;

FIG. 81 is a view similar to FIG. 78, illustrating another variant embodiment; Also,

82 is a schematic diagram of a partial longitudinal cross section of another embodiment.

Patent Document 1: European Patent Application EP-A-0 556 081

Patent Document 2: European Patent Application EP-A-0 651 955

Patent Document 3: US Patent No. 4 841 996

The present invention relates to a cosmetic applicator.

Various applicators have been proposed which apply the material to the nail and comprise a mixture of bristles. European patent application EP-A-0 556 081 discloses a brush for applying a nail polish to a nail, which comprises a mixture of bristle with different diameters. In addition, European patent application EP-A0 651 955 discloses a brush for applying a nail polish to a nail, which is of two kinds with different mechanical properties in order to form a relatively large gap between the bristols. Includes Bristol.

Moreover, U. S. Patent No. 4 841 996 discloses an applicator device for applying a liquid, in particular nail manicure, which is applied to the bristle of the brush when the liquid is released from the receiver containing the liquid. Storage means suitable for storing the liquid so that the liquid can be supplied.

Accordingly, there is a need to further improve the performance of an applicator for applying a substance to areas of the body or face, especially nails, and the present invention is directed to satisfying this need.

In one aspect, the present invention provides an applicator for applying the material to the nail, wherein the applicator is:

As a bundle of bristle, the bundle comprises at least two kinds of bristle, and / or a bristle having a non-circular cross section, and / or a bristle having a non-linear bristle, in particular a bristle having a relief;

A stem supporting the bundle of bristle;

A lid forming a space to cooperate with at least a portion of the stem and its length to provide a reservoir of material

It includes.

The term "at least two kinds of bristle" means a bristle which may exhibit a difference in its composition, and / or its volume, and / or its form, in particular its longitudinal profile and / or its cross section. Used.

The bundle having at least two kinds of bristle, and / or bristle having a non-circular cross section, when compared to a bristle bundle constituted by a single type of conventional bristle only having a circular cross section, Can increase capillary retention.

By means of the invention, the service time between the refills of the applicator can be increased without adversely affecting the quality of the application, first because of the presence of a material reservoir formed by the space provided between at least the cover and the stem, and then This is because the bundle of bristle has at least two kinds of bristle and / or bristle having a non-circular cross section. By its capillary retention capability, the bristle bundle can prevent the material contained in the space formed between the cover and the stem from flowing too quickly toward the area to be treated.

Thus, the present invention makes it possible to control the transport of the stored material by the applicator and increase its use time while maintaining the possibility of neatly applying makeup.

The composition of the bundles of Bristol may depend on the rheology of the material. Using a mixture of bristle enables the applicator to be relatively easily adapted to the rheology of the material, for example by adjusting the relative proportion of each bristle type in the bundle.

Where appropriate, by capillary retention provided by the bundle of Bristol, the present invention allows a less viscous formulation to be used without the risk that the material may flow too quickly.

The space arranged to provide a material reservoir is formed by itself in such a way that the material can fill the space, for example when the lid is impregnated in the material.

Preferably, air vents are provided, for example in the form of at least one opening in the lid. The air may also be vented in such a way that the lid is mounted on the applicator. For example, a vent may be formed between the top edge of the cover and the applicator portion to which the cover is fixed. Vents may also be made through the portion of the applicator on which the lid is mounted.

For example, each of the at least two types of bristle in the bundle will be at least 2%, preferably 5%, even at least 10%, 20%, 30%, or 40% of the total number of bristols of the applicator. You may have the number of Bristols. Where appropriate, the applicator may comprise two kinds of bristle at substantially the same ratio.

For example, a bundle of bristle may comprise at least two kinds of bristle having properties that cause the bundle to expand, thereby forming many gaps, where the material can be retained by capillary action .

The bundle of bristle may comprise at least two kinds of bristle of different volumes, in particular of different lengths and / or cross sections. The relative difference in cross section and / or length between bristle may be greater than 10%, even 20% or 30%, for example. For example, the length of the longer bristle may be at least 10% greater than the length of the shorter bristle. The largest cross section of the thicker bristle, eg the diameter, may be at least 15% larger than the largest cross section of the thinner bristle.

The bundle of bristle may comprise a bristle having at least one relief and at least one straight bristle.

The bundle may also include a bristle with relief, which differs in its periodic pattern. The term "periodic pattern" refers to the portion of Bristol that is substantially reproduced in a periodic manner along Bristol. The periodic pattern providing at least one relief can be determined by three factors, the shape of which is sinusoidal or serrated, the amplitude of which is orthogonal to the general longitudinal direction of Bristol. Size, and its spatial frequency, ie the number of patterns reproduced per unit length of Bristol. A single pattern may be repeated many times over the entire length of Bristol. Bristol may provide one single pattern or less than one single pattern.

The periodic pattern of the bristle may be at least one relief and / or at least one filler and / or at least one variation and / or notch and / or relief of the cross section of the bristle. Can provide them.

The bundle of bristle may include, for example, bristle with ups and downs having different patterns and / or frequencies.

The bundle of bristle may comprise at least one bristle providing properties that promote sliding.

The cover cooperates only with the stem or with the bristle and the stem to form a space in which the material will be stored. The space between the lid and the stem can be arranged such that the material is held in the space by capillary action. Where appropriate, the space may be relatively wide so that at least in some areas there may be a gap of at least 2 millimeters (mm), for example, between the inner surface of the cover and the opposing portions of the stalk or the bundle of bristle.

The sheath preferably comprises at least one side opening in communication with the space between the sheath and the stem, allowing the material to enter the space and / or allow the air to enter and exit the space, thereby It is easy to be filled and the material flows out of the space towards Bristol. The lateral opening preferably provides a cross section larger than 5 square millimeters (mm ² ), preferably 9 mm ² , more preferably 16 mm ² , even more preferably 20 mm ² or 25 mm ² .

The cover may be rigid or flexible. In particular, the cover may be made of a material different from that of the stem. In a variant, the cover may be made of the same material.

Over at least a portion of its length, the lid may have a completely smooth inner surface and / or outer surface. In particular, the cover may not have any annular flanges or grooves on its inner surface. For example, the lid may be soft on its inner surface and the stem may include relief-like portions such as ribs or other rough portions.

The cover may be secured to the stem by stapling or other means, and it is also possible for the cover to be secured axially relative to the stem. For example, the lid may be adhesively bonded or heat sealed on the stem. The cover may be retained on the stem by friction and / or snap-fastening. The cover may be manufactured integrally as a stem and a single piece, for example by injection molding or overmolding of the material.

The cover may provide a circular or oval cross section, for example depending on whether the stem has a circular or oval cross section. The cover may provide a circular cross section even when the stem is elliptical, and vice versa. The outer cross section of the cover can optionally be constant. The lid may provide a varying inner cross section, for example an inner cross section that changes from a circular cross section to an elliptical cross section. The cover may provide an internal cross section that is tapered towards the bundle of Bristol. Where appropriate, the cross sections of the cover and the stem may be substantially similar, for example both oval over at least a portion of their length.

The cover can provide a free edge adjacent to the bundle of Bristol, which can be completely circular. For example, the sheath may include a notch at the free end to make it easier to concentrate the flow of material onto the applicator element, and / or to flow the material towards the applicator element.

The stem may provide a cross section that is circular or elliptical over at least a portion of its length. In particular, the stem may provide a form that induces material to flow along the stem towards a predefined area of the bristle bundle. This allows the application to be carried out more neatly.

At least near its distal end, adjacent to the bundle of Bristol, the stem may provide a cross section with a contour that provides at least one depression. In this case, the bundle of bristle can be fixed, for example, in the housing of the distal part of the stem, which housing has an opening of elliptical cross section with a long axis. The above mentioned depression may be located at a substantially intermediate point along the long axis of the housing when the stem is observed in cross section. If appropriate, the stem may comprise walls of varying thickness around the housing.

The stem may include, for example, at least one groove extending along at least a portion of the stem, or two grooves positioned opposite each other. The groove (s) may contribute to guiding the flow of material along the stem.

The bundle of bristle may provide a substantially rectangular, circular, or other shaped cross section.

The free end of the cover is preferably located at or near the bristle of the bristle bundle.

Where appropriate, movement of the bristle bundles and / or stems during application can cause local variation in the gap between the stem and the cover or the gap between the cover and the bristle bundle, thereby affecting the flow of material.

If the bundle of bristle is flat, the long axis of its cross section may be oriented substantially parallel or perpendicular to the side opening in the lid. In addition, other orientations may also be considered.

In other aspects, independently of or in combination with the above, the present invention also provides:

Applicator elements;

A stem supporting the applicator element; And

A lid defining a space to cooperate with the stem over at least a portion of its length to provide a reservoir for material, wherein the lid and the stem are such that the space is changed around the stem over at least a portion of the stem length Covers that provide cross sections arranged to provide thickness

It provides an applicator comprising a.

In particular, the lid and stem provide cross sections with different shapes such that the space between the lid and the stem may vary around the circumference.

In particular, the stem may, in cross section, provide a depression that locally increases the width of the space.

For example, the stem may include at least one optionally straight groove, for example a spiral groove, extending along at least a portion of the stem.

In particular, the stem may comprise two straight grooves facing each other.

The groove (s) present on the stem or cover may contribute to guiding the flow of material provided along the space formed between the cover and the stem to a particular region of the applicator element, in particular to the middle region thereof.

The groove (s) may preferably be open axially at the end of the stem or cover located next to the applicator element.

The depressions can provide a variety of shapes, especially those with or without a circular bottom. The shape of the depression can vary along the length of the stem or cover.

Where appropriate, the stem may include a wall that has a constant thickness or varies around the housing of the stem containing the applicator element.

In these aspects of the invention, the space defined between the stem and the lid provides a varying thickness around the circumference, for example, the stem provides at least one depression in its cross section, and the applicator element is any This is because the bristle has a shape, and in particular can be composed of bristle and / or all straight bristle having the same bristle and / or both circular cross section.

If the applicator element is generally constituted by a bundle of bristols fixed in a flat, e.g. elongated form in the stem, the cover and / or the stem may substantially contain the material substantially in the middle region of the applicator element. It can be arranged to guide in, wherein the cover or stem comprises a depression which is generally symmetrical with respect to the intermediate plane of the housing, for example the intermediate plane is perpendicular to the long axis of the housing viewed in cross section.

The presence of the cover along at least a portion of the stem slows down the rate at which the material flows towards the applicator element, thereby obtaining a flow rate suitable for the type of material to be applied and / or the type of applicator element.

In another aspect, independently or in combination with the above, the present invention also provides an applicator for applying a substance, the applicator comprising:

Applicator elements other than brushes;

A stem supporting the applicator element;

A lid forming a space to cooperate with at least a portion of the stem and its length to provide a reservoir of material

It includes.

In particular, the applicator element may be a felt tip or a hairy end. The features of the aforementioned embodiments can be applied to such applicators.

In another aspect, independently or in combination with the above, the present invention also provides an applicator for applying a substance, the applicator comprising:

Applicator elements, for example a bundle of bristols;

A stem supporting the applicator element;

A lid defining a space in which the stem can cooperate with at least a portion of its length to provide a reservoir of material, the lid including at least one side opening allowing material to enter the space, in particular The side opening has a cross section of at least 5 mm ² and the stem is selectively prevented from moving longitudinally relative to the cover

It includes.

Such an applicator may be received in a receiver that includes a neck that is at least partially widened, where it faces the side openings, thereby making it easier for material to flow toward the side openings. The widening of the neck can be achieved, for example, by making the neck have a shoulder. The distance between the lateral opening and the opposing widened neck is for example at least 1.5 mm.

In another aspect, the invention also provides an apparatus, in particular for applying a substance to the nail, which apparatus comprises a receiver as defined above for receiving the substance to be applied.

The device may comprise a sealing cap for supporting the stem, and a threaded neck, such that the sealing cap comprises a threaded mounting skirt arranged to be screwed onto the neck. do.

The device may comprise a wiper.

The neck may include a free end that makes it easier to clean the applicator element by forming sharp edges. The stem may comprise a plate having an annular groove to which the above mentioned sharp edges are joined. The neck may be loaded by an add-on piece that forms a sharp edge. The additional piece may be secured to the neck of the receiver by various means, for example snap-fastening.

The sealing cap may provide a length greater than the length of the stem and / or the length of the receiver. If the sealing cap also constitutes a handle, the relatively long sealing cap can make the application more comfortable and allow the applicator to be handled differently.

The neck can be relatively long, thereby reducing the risk of the neck thread being blocked, for example by dried material. Where appropriate, the long neck may enable the sealing cap to be made with a mounting skirt long enough to cover the side opening (s) formed in the lid.

The cover may provide a radial clearance, in particular a clearance of 0.5 mm or more, when the applicator is placed in position on the receiver.

In this case, the top of the lid may provide an outer diameter that is smaller than the inner diameter of the neck.

The sealing cap may comprise a plurality of fins arranged on the inner face of the sealing cap, the pins functioning to fix the stem, in particular the tubular-mounted end at the upper end of the stem. It can accommodate shaped mounting endpieces.

The device may comprise an outer ring that protrudes from the outer surface of the receiver, such a ring being held by friction, for example. A loop may be positioned on the receiver so that when the receiver is placed on its bottom and a horizontal surface through the loop, the liquid level inside the receiver can be kept below the opening level of the receiver.

The device may also comprise a sleeve, in particular an elastic sleeve, attached to the receiver and held for example by friction above it. Such a sleeve can, for example, make it easier to fix the receiver.

The invention will be better understood by reading the following detailed description of the non-limiting embodiments and referring to the accompanying drawings.

The applicator device 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 comprises a receiver 2 and an applicator 3 fixed in a removable manner on the receiver 2.

In the embodiment shown, the receiver 2 comprises a nail manicure V, but even if the material present in the receiver 2 is another cosmetic or care product, this is not outside the scope of the present invention.

The receiver 2 can be made of any material compatible with the materials contained therein, for example made of a material selected from the group consisting of: glass; metal; Plastics, in particular Barex ^® ; Polyolefins, in particular polyethylene, polyethylene / ethylvinyl alcohol / polycarbonate (PE / EVOH / PC), or polyethylene / ethylvinyl alcohol / nylon ^® (PE / EVOH / NYLON ^® ).

In the embodiment under consideration, the receiver 2 comprises a neck 4 having a longitudinal axis Y at its upper portion, which neck 4 has a mounting skirt 17 of a sealing cap 5. Has an external thread (9) that can be screwed on.

For example, the length of the sealing cap 5 can be longer than the length of the receiver 2.

At its bottom, the applicator 3 comprises a stem 6 having a distal end 7 supporting a bundle 10 of bristle 11 comprising at least two kinds of bristle. At its top, the stem 6 comprises a distal end 8 for fixing in the sealing cap 5, for example by snap-fastening and / or friction. In the embodiment under consideration, the distal end 8 comprises a plate 90 which can be arranged to abut against the top edge of the neck 4 when the sealing cap 5 is fully screwed.

The tubular cover 15 is held by a stem 6 surrounding the stem. In the embodiment under consideration, the cover 15 extends downwardly beyond the stem 6 and partially surrounds the bristle 11, as can be seen in FIG. 3.

The annular space 20 is formed between the stem 6, the bristle 11, and the inner surface 16 of the cover 15.

The lid 15 comprises at least one side opening 21, which communicates with the above-mentioned annular space 20 and opens outwardly facing the mounting skirt 17. The mounting skirt 17 is preferably long enough to cover the side opening (s) 21 to improve the appearance. In a variant (not shown), the side opening (s) 21 may be open and visible at a point outside the mounting skirt 17.

In the embodiment shown, the lid 15 is flexible, but may be rigid without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The lid 15 may be made of an optional transparent material different from the material of the stem 6 and in the embodiment shown provides a circular cross section.

In the embodiment under consideration, the stem 6 also provides a circular cross section, the upper end of which includes a widened portion 26 connected to the distal end 8. The lid 15 is against the widened portion 36.

The lid 15 can be fixed on the stem 6, for example by at least one staple 41 inserted into the widened portion 26, as shown in FIG. 4. The staples 41 are disposed at different positions on the lid 15, or the lid is fixed on the stem 6, for example by gluing, welding, clamping, snap-fastening, or other means. It is not beyond the scope of the present invention. In particular, the lid 15 may be made integrally as a single piece with the stem 6, for example, as shown in FIG. 8. The figure also shows the possibility of providing one or more side openings 21, for example two opposing openings 21, on the lid 15.

Referring to FIG. 4, it can be seen that the distal end 7 of the stem 6 comprises a housing 25 arranged to receive the bundle 10 of Bristol 11.

The bundle can be fixed to the distal wall of the housing 25, for example by stapling, and the bundle 10 of bristle is folded in half, for example, to staple at an intermediate point along the length of the bristle. It may be fixed (not shown) and inserted into the end wall of the housing 25. The bristle may be secured to the stem by means other than stapling, for example the stem may be injection molded onto the bristle, or the bristle may be adhesively bonded to the stem.

For example, the side opening 21 provides a cross section that is polygonal, in particular square or rectangular, as shown in FIG. 5. The cross section of the side opening 21 is preferably large enough so that the material V can easily pass therethrough. For example, the cross section of the side opening or the sum of the cross sections of the side openings may exceed 5 mm ² , preferably 9 mm ² , more preferably 16 mm ² , even more preferably 20 mm ² or 25 mm ² . have. In the embodiment under consideration, the side opening 21 has a side surface that is substantially 5 mm.

Prior to application, the receiver can be shaken with the sealing cap 5 closed, thereby allowing more material V to pass into the space 20.

When the applicator 3 is removed from the receiver 2, the material V remains in the space 20, as shown in FIG. 3. As a result of using two types of bristle, the bundle 10 providing increased capillary retention capability prevents the material V contained in the space 20 from flowing too quickly during application. Thus, the applicator 3 can make the use time between the refills relatively long, which, for example, applies nail polish to the nails in a single layer without having to reimmerse the applicator 3 into the receiver 2. Makes it possible.

The flow rate can be adjusted more easily, which makes it possible, for example, to apply a relatively thick layer of material, if desired.

The bundle 10 of bristle may comprise at least two bristols 11 which provide different mechanical properties, in particular different bending properties, thereby making it possible to obtain a bundle of bristle far enough apart. Thus, the gaps between bristols can retain material by capillary action.

The bundle 10 of bristle also has a non-circular cross section and can provide bristle with increased material retention capacity.

In the embodiment of FIG. 7, the bundle 10 of bristle 11 comprises at least two bristle providing different diameters.

In a variant, or in addition, the bundle 10 of bristle 11 may comprise a bristle having at least two reliefs with different relief patterns, which relief pattern may be as shown in FIG. 9. Likewise, their shape, their spatial frequency, and / or their amplitude may vary.

10 and 11 show two examples of bristle with ups and downs. The bristle of FIG. 10 provides a substantially sinusoidal shape, and the bristle shown in FIG. 11 provides a sawtooth shape.

Bundle 10 may also include relief bristle or straight bristle, the percentage of bristle with relief may be 20% to 40%, and straight bristle may be 60% to 80%, eg For example, about 30% of Bristol may be bristle with ups and downs, and about 70% Bristol may be straight Bristol.

The bristle 11 used can provide an optional circular cross section, in particular comprising at least one capillary groove. If their cross section is not circular, the bristle 11 may be twisted. For example, the bristle may comprise at least one helical groove.

In particular, it is possible to use a bristle which provides a cross section with any one of the forms schematically depicted in FIGS. 12 to 28, for example a circular with a flat surface as shown in FIG. 12, FIG. 13. Flat, star form, for example a cross as shown in FIG. 14, or three branches as shown in FIG. 15, a U-shape as shown in FIG. 16, FIG. H-shape as shown in 17, T-shape as shown in FIG. 18, V-shape as shown in FIG. 19, hollow, for example circular, or polygonal as shown in FIG. 20, in particular FIG. A rectangle as shown in 21, a branch with a branch as shown in FIG. 22, a polygon, for example a triangle as shown in FIG. 23, a rectangle as shown in FIG. 24, or as shown in FIG. 25. Such as hexagon, oval, Hi, it is possible to use the hourglass as shown in Figure 26 a lens-shaped, or as shown in Figure 27. It is also possible to use a bristle with hinged parts relative to each other with respect to FIG. 28.

If appropriate, treatment may be applied to the bristle 11, for example heat treatment to form individual end balls 31 as shown in FIG. 29, or a fork as shown in FIG. 30 ( 32) may be subjected to mechanical treatment to form.

Bristol 11 may optionally provide a tapered end as shown in FIG. 31.

It is also possible to use a bristle bristle 11 as shown in FIG. 32, or prepared by injecting a plastic material comprising a filler of particles 33 as shown in FIG. 33. It is also possible to use old Bristol 11. The filler of the particles can, for example, increase the roughness of the bristle and improve the material retention capacity.

If appropriate, Bristol 11 may provide magnetic or other properties.

Naturally, all combinations of Bristol 11 are also possible.

Bristol may be made, at least in general, of a synthetic material selected from, for example: polyolefins, in particular polyethylene; Polyamide, especially PA6, PA6 / 6, PA6 / 10, PA6 / 12, PA11, or, for example, Rilsan ^®; Polymer Hytrel-Pebax; And other thermoplastic polymers.

At least some of Bristol 11 may be made of a material that provides properties that promote sliding, for example PA6 / 12, graphite, or polytetrafluoroethylene, in particular comprising Rilsan ^® or molybdenum disulfide, in particular It may also be made of Teflon ^® , but is not limited thereto.

The space 20 may first be formed between the lid 15 and then between the stem 6 and the bristle 11. In a variant, as shown in FIG. 34, the cover 15 may only cooperate with the stem 6 to form the space 20, with the cover 35 extending down beyond the distal end of the stem 6. It does not wrap the bundle 10.

As shown in FIG. 35, the cover 15 can provide a notch 40, in particular at its bottom 18, which can provide a V-shaped notch. For example, the notch may help to concentrate the flow of material on a predefined area of the applicator element.

The cross section of the stem 6 may be circular as shown in FIG. 6, but of course may also provide other forms.

As shown in FIGS. 36 and 37, the stem 6 can thus provide an elliptical cross section from its bottom end over at least a portion of its length.

In its upper part, the cover 15 provides a circular cross section suitable for being fixed on the cylindrically widened portion 26 of the stem 6, and in its bottom part a non-circular cross section suitable for the shape of the stem 6. can do.

At its bottom end, the lid 15 cooperates with the stem 6 and / or the bundle 10 to form a relatively narrow gap 60. The gap 60 may follow the outline of the stem. During the application, the width of the gap can be varied and retained in the space 20 by increasing in particular locally, as a result of the movement of the bundle 10 of bristol 11 and / or the bending of the stem 6. Material V can be made easier to flow towards Bristol 11 and / or to regulate the flow.

Where appropriate, with the lid 15 assembled on the stem 6, additional portions of reliefs 61 and 62 are provided to facilitate each position of the lid 15 relative to the stem 6. It may be provided on the stem 6 and the cover 15, respectively.

For example, the portion of the relief 62 is in the form of a triangular protrusion projecting from the widened portion 26 of the stem 6, and the portion of the other relief 61 is in the thickness of the lid 15. It is also in the form of a triangular notch, which is formed and opens at its inner surface and its upper end. Sealing may be accomplished in another way, for example by pressing the cone-shaped portion of the applicator against the neck of the receiver, the cone-shaped portion being for example a plate It is below 90.

If the housing 25 containing the bundle 10 of Bristol is not circularly symmetric, for example elliptical, then the bundle of bristle is in the long axis X of the housing, as shown in FIG. 70. It is fixed in the housing by a staple 64 oriented perpendicular to it, or in the housing by a staple 64 oriented parallel to the major axis X, as shown in FIG. The orientation in the housing 25 of the staple 64 may contribute to the extent to which the bundle 10 is spread.

As shown in FIGS. 40 to 48, the stem 6 may comprise at least one depression 46 over at least a portion of its length, in particular over its distal portion 7. The housing 25 can provide an opening having a rectangular cross section extending along axis X, as shown in FIG. 40. The thickness e of the material surrounding the housing 25 need not be constant. In FIG. 40, the stem 6 has two opposing depressions 46. The depression can direct the flow of material into the middle region of the applicator element.

FIG. 41 shows a lid 15 that cooperates with the stem 6 to form a space 20 over the entire outer circumferential surface of the stem. The space 20 can provide a volume that varies over the entire length of the outer periphery of the stem 6. In particular, the volume of the space 20 is larger at the depression 46, so that it is also possible to construct a larger reservoir of material at these locations. When the stem is observed in cross section, the contour of the stem 6 may be convex as it moves away from the depression 46.

It is also possible to modify the shape of the housing 25 and / or the shape of the distal end 7 of the stem 6 on which the housing 25 is formed.

For example, FIGS. 42-54 illustrate various forms of distal ends.

In FIG. 42, it can be seen that the stem contains only a single depression 46.

In FIG. 43, it can be seen that the opening of the housing 25 provides a non-rectangular cross section, for example a substantially elliptical cross section.

In FIG. 44, the opening of the housing 25 provides a cross section defining two outwardly facing shallow depressions 25c at its long side, for example the two depressions 25c being the stem 6. It can be seen that it is more prominent than the depressions formed on the outside.

In FIG. 45, it can be seen that the depressions 46 are relatively narrow, for example, to further facilitate the induction of material at an intermediate point along the housing 25.

In FIG. 46, it can be seen that the depressions 46 provide a substantially triangular profile in cross section.

FIG. 47 illustrates the fact that the wall thickness e ₁ of the housing 25 near the longitudinal end of the housing 25 may be less than the wall thickness e ₂ of the intermediate point along the housing 25. If necessary, the thickness e ₁ may correspond to the minimum value. The small thickness e ₁ enables the housing 25 to be made longer along the long axis X, thereby allowing a very wide brush or a brush that can be easily widened to be obtained.

48 shows a depression 46 with other forms.

Regardless of whether one depression 46 is present or more depressions 46 are present, the distal end 7 of the stem 6 receives the bundle of bristle 10 in the housing 25. It may be manufactured to have a variety of cross-section in order to.

49-54 show various examples of cross sections for the stem 6 and the distal end 7 of the housing 25.

In particular, the cross section of the distal end 7 may be oval or elliptical as shown in FIG. 49, polygonal, in particular square or rectangular as shown in FIGS. 51 and 52, or as shown in FIG. 53. It may be child-shaped as shown, star-shaped as shown in FIG. 54, or crenellated as shown in FIG. 50.

The length of the bristle of the bundle 10 may be selected such that the free end of the bristle 11 is substantially retained in a single plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Y of the bag 6, as shown in FIG. 57. Can be.

In a variant, the free end of the bristle 11 of the bundle 10 may be located along the surface C, which is not planar, for example convex on the side away from the stem 6, as shown in FIG. 55. have.

In another variant, as shown in FIG. 56, the free end of the bristle of the bundle 10 is located along a planar surface that is inclined substantially with respect to the axis Y of the stem.

As shown in FIG. 57, the housing 25 containing the bundle 10 of the bristle 11 provides a constant cross section, for example, to make it possible to obtain a brush having a bristle relatively close to each other. It may be. By manufacturing the housing 25 to spread outwards, the bristle 11 can be further away from each other to form a wider bundle 10.

The bundle 10 of Bristol 11 may provide other shapes in cross section. In FIG. 59, the brush is flat, in FIG. 60, the brush is round, and in FIG. 61, the cross section of the bundle 10 is bent in shape to better fit the curve of the nail.

FIG. 62 shows that the cover is made to have a portion of relief 92 on its inner surface, the relief portion being, for example, annular ribs.

The neck 4 without a wiper comprises a free edge, which, at the top thereof, can provide a flat or sharp edge 56, as shown in FIG. 63.

The presence of the sharp edges ensures that the receiver is sealed by contacting the bottom surface 57 of the distal end 8 of the bag 6. In addition, when removing the applicator 3 from the receiver 2, the user can wipe the bundle 10 carrying the material against the free end 55 of the neck 4. Due to the sharp edges 26, the material flows into the receiver 2. The sharp edge 56 can provide various shapes.

If appropriate, and if the neck includes a sharp edge 56, the groove 66 is bottomed of the plate 90 of the distal end 8 to accommodate the sharp edge 56, as shown in FIG. 69. Can be prepared in cotton 57. This further improves the sealing of the receiver when closed.

In a variant, as shown in FIG. 64, a sharp edge 56 may be formed on the piece 110 attached on the neck 4 of the receiver.

An add-on piece 110 can be fixed on the neck 4 by snap fastening, the neck comprising, for example, an outer annular groove 111, the piece 110 correspondingly. An inwardly facing flange 112.

The additional piece 110 can be made of plastic material, for example.

The receiver 2 containing the material to be applied may provide other forms without departing from the scope of the invention, as shown in FIGS. 65 and 66.

In FIG. 65, the receiver 2 provides a conventional form and may include balls for homogenizing material V.

In FIG. 66, the receiver 2 is tapered from the bottom toward the center and then unfolded again toward the top, providing a waist shape with an external cross section that is easy to grip.

The waist shape may be in the form of the receiver 2 itself or may be in the form of a sleeve, in particular in the form of an elastic sleeve attached on the receiver 2, which for example is substantially cylindrical in itself.

The sealing cap 5 may also provide other forms without departing from the scope of the present invention, and may particularly provide a substantially conical shape, as shown in FIG. 66.

The neck 4, as shown in FIG. 67, is manufactured with a shoulder that provides an enlarged shape, thereby providing additional space between the inner surface of the receiver 2 and the cover 15 in the opening 21. It may also be easier to fill the space 20 with material passing through the opening 21. The width of the additional space is, for example, at least 1.5 mm.

In the embodiment of FIG. 67, the neck 4 is made to have a widened bottom 4a, which cooperates with the lid 15 between the lid 15 and the thread-bearing top 4b of the neck 4. It forms an annular space 69 which is wider than the existing space 70.

In use, the material V can reach the side opening 21 by flowing through the passage 69, in particular when the user shakes the receiver 2 up and down.

FIG. 68 shows that the receiver 2 is made to have a wiper member 72, for example inserted into the neck 4 and abutted against the top of the neck 4 via a rim 73. Doing.

The wiper member 72 may comprise an annular lip 74 which, when the receiver is closed, abuts against the outer surface of the lid 15 over the side opening 21.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 73 to 76, the sealing cap 5 provides a flat elongated form at its upper end.

In the embodiment shown, the inner surface of the cap includes a plurality of fins 120 that provide different lengths.

The pins 120 shown in FIGS. 74 to 76 can make it easier to fix the distal end 8, in particular by friction.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 77, the receiver 2 provides a ring 125, for example an elastic ring, which is held on its outer surface, for example by friction, on the receiver 2.

The hook 125 facilitates holding the receiver 2 and / or laying down an open receiver on a horizontal surface while preventing the material contained in the receiver 2 from flowing out of the receiver.

Although the present invention is advantageously applied to an applicator element constituted by a brush, the present invention also shows that a bundle of bristol 10 is shown in an applicator element 80 other than a brush, for example in FIG. 72. As can be seen, this also provides advantages when replaced by hairy ends, foam ends, or felt tips.

78 and 79 show an embodiment of an applicator made according to one aspect of the present invention, in which the applicator has a stem 6 having at least one depression 46, and in any form, For example, an applicator element constituted by a bundle of bristols having a straight and circular cross section.

78 shows the lid fixed to the stem by snap-fastening.

In the embodiment under consideration, as can be seen in FIG. 79, the stem 6 comprises two opposing longitudinal grooves 46, while the stem 6 comprises only one groove, eg For example, more generally one of the cross sections described with reference to FIGS. 40 to 48 above is provided.

The stem 6 may also comprise at least one nonlinear groove, for example a helical groove.

The stem and cover may also provide other forms that can vary the thickness of the space around the stem. For example, as shown in FIG. 80, corrugating the depression 132 is a cover by providing at least one groove 131, or in fact two grooves 131, in its radially inner surface. In this embodiment, the stem 6 does not provide any depression in its cross section.

Although not shown, in a variant, both the lid and the stem may provide respective depressions among their cross sections.

The air in the space between the lid and the stem may be vented by means other than passing through the side openings 21.

For example, FIG. 81 shows an applicator with a lid 15 without side openings. The stem 6 extends axially between the cover and the stem and also includes a notch extending below the plate 90 but radially above the top edge of the cover, where the notch is impregnated in the material. In this way, it is possible for the air to be ventilated.

In FIG. 82, an applicator is shown manufactured with hinges 200 that enable a given angular movement of the stem and cover during use.

The hinge 200 is, for example, in the form of a film hinge or a stem portion in the form of a wire or an hourglass.

The portion can be connected to the distal end.

The hinge can also be made differently, for example it can be made with a ball and a cage having one or more pivot axes.

In the embodiment shown, the lid is secured to the stem under the hinges and pivots about the stem.

During use, due to the orientation of the stem, the comfort of application may be improved.

The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but features for various embodiments can be combined with respect to each other, in particular the bundles of Bristol can be applied to other applicator elements, in particular FIGS. 1, 8, 34, It may be replaced by the applicator element shown in 36, 65, 66, 67, and 68.

Throughout the specification, including the claims, the term "comprising" should be understood to be synonymous with the term "comprising at least one," unless stated otherwise to the contrary.

According to the present invention can achieve the following effects.

By providing a bundle having at least two types of bristle, the present invention can increase the capillary holding capacity of a bristle bundle when compared to a bristle bundle constituted by a single type of conventional bristle only having a circular cross section. have.

Furthermore, according to the present invention, the use time between the refills of the applicator can be increased without adversely affecting the quality of the application, and the material contained in the space formed between the cover and the stem flows too quickly toward the area to be treated. Can be prevented. Thus, the present invention makes it possible to control the transport of the stored material by the applicator and increase its use time while maintaining the possibility of neatly applying makeup.

Claims (62)

Applicator (3) for applying substance (V) to the nail, the applicator being: A bundle 10 of bristle 11, the bundle comprising at least two kinds of bristle, a bristle having a non-circular cross section, and at least one of a non-straight bristle; A stem 6 supporting the bundle 10 of the bristol 11; A lid (15) which forms a space (20) which can cooperate with the stem (6) over at least a portion of its length to provide a reservoir of material, the lid (15) being the lid (15) and the stem A cover comprising at least one side opening 21 for communicating the space 20 between the outside and the outside Applicator comprising a. Applicator elements; A stem (6) supporting said applicator element; And A lid defining a space 20 that cooperates with the stem over at least a portion of its length to provide a reservoir for material, wherein the lid and the stem have a circumference of the stem such that the space spans at least a portion of the stem length. A lid providing a cross section arranged to provide a varying thickness in which the lid 15 includes at least one side opening that communicates the space 20 between the lid 15 and the stem 6 to the outside ( Cover containing 21) Applicator comprising a. Applicator according to claim 2, characterized in that the stem (6) provides at least one cross section having a contour providing a depression (46) at least near the distal end of the applicator element. 2. Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the bundle (10) of the bristle comprises at least two bristle (11) of different compositions. 2. Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the bundle (10) of the bristle comprises at least two bristle (11) different in length or in maximum cross section. 6. The applicator according to claim 5, wherein the length of the longer bristol of the at least two bristols of different lengths is at least 10% longer than the length of the shorter bristol. 6. The applicator of claim 5 wherein the maximum cross section is at least 15% greater than the largest cross section of the thinner bristol among the at least two other Bristols. 2. Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the bundle (10) of the bristle (11) comprises at least two bristle (11) having different shapes. 9. Applicator according to claim 8, characterized in that the bristle (11) has a different longitudinal profile. 9. Applicator according to claim 8, characterized in that the bristle (11) has a different cross section. 10. The applicator of claim 8 wherein said bundle of bristle comprises a straight bristle and a bristle having a relief. The applicator according to claim 11, wherein in the bundle (10), the percentage of straight bristle is 60% to 80% and the percentage of bristle with relief is 20% to 40%. The applicator according to claim 1, wherein the number of bristle of each of at least two kinds of bristle is at least 2% of the total number of bristle of the applicator in the bundle. 13. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cover (15) cooperates only with the stem (6) to form a space (20) in which the material is held. 2. Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the cover (15) cooperates with both the bristle (11) and the stem (6) to form a space (20) in which the material is retained. delete Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the opening (21) extends over at least 9 mm ² . ^2. Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the opening (21) extends over at least 20 mm ² . The applicator according to claim 1, wherein the space (20) between the lid (15) and the stem (6) is arranged such that material can be retained in the space (20) by capillary action. . 2. An applicator according to claim 1, wherein said cover (15) is rigid. 2. An applicator according to claim 1, wherein said cover (15) is flexible. Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the cover (15) is made of a material different from that of the stem (6). Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the cover (15) is made of the same material as the stem (6). 2. Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the cover (15) has a completely smooth inner surface (16). 2. An applicator as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cover (15) provides an interior surface comprising a portion of at least one relief (92). 2. Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the cover (15) is fixed to the stem (6) by stapling. 2. The applicator of claim 1 wherein said lid is retained on said stem by snap-fastening. 2. An applicator according to claim 1, wherein said lid (15) provides a circular cross section. 2. Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that over at least a portion of its length, the cover (15) provides an elliptical cross section. 2. Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the cover (15) comprises a notch (40) at the free end. 3. Applicator according to claim 2, characterized in that the cover provides at least one depression (131) in its cross section. 32. The applicator according to claim 31, wherein said depression (131) is present at least near the distal end of said lid adjacent said applicator element. 2. The application according to claim 1, characterized in that at least near the distal end adjacent to the bundle 10 of Bristol, the stem 6 provides a cross section having a contour that provides at least one depression 46. group. 34. The bundle (10) of the bristle (11) is fixed in a housing (25) in the distal end (7) of the stem (6), wherein the housing (25) has a major axis (X) and is elliptical. Applicator characterized in that it has an opening in the cross section and the depression (46) is located substantially at an intermediate point along the major axis (X) of the housing when the stem (6) is observed in cross section. 2. Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the stem (6) comprises two depressions (46) which are positioned opposite one another. 2. An applicator according to claim 1, wherein said lid (15) provides a varying inner cross section. 37. The applicator according to claim 36, wherein the lid (15) provides an inner cross section that is circular at one axial end and a flat inner cross section at the other axial end. 3. The applicator of claim 2 wherein the cover and the stem provide cross sections with different shapes such that the space between the cover and the stem changes around the circumferential surface. 3. The applicator of claim 2 wherein said stem comprises at least one straight groove extending over at least a portion of said stem. 3. An applicator as in claim 2 wherein said stem comprises two straight grooves positioned opposite one another. 40. The applicator of claim 39 wherein said groove is open axially in a lid located at the end of said stem or next to said applicator element. 3. The applicator of claim 2 wherein said stem comprises a wall of varying thickness around a housing of the stem containing said applicator element. Apparatus (1) for applying a substance to a nail, the apparatus comprising a receiver (2) for receiving the substance to be applied, and an applicator according to claim 1. 44. The device of claim 43, wherein the device comprises a sealing cap (5) supporting the stem (6), the receiver (2) comprising a threaded neck (4), wherein the sealing cap (5) is Device arranged to be screwed onto the neck. 44. The device of claim 43, wherein the device does not comprise a wiper. 44. The device of claim 43, wherein the device comprises a wiper. 45. The device according to claim 44, wherein the neck (4) comprises a free edge (55) forming a sharp edge (56). 48. The device according to claim 47, wherein the neck (4) is mounted by an additional piece (110) forming a sharp edge (56). 49. The device according to claim 48, wherein said additional piece (110) is secured to the neck of said receiver (2) by snap fastening. 45. The device according to claim 44, wherein the length of the sealing cap (5) is longer than the length of the stem (6). 44. The lid of claim 43 wherein the lid 15 comprises at least one side opening 21 having a cross section of at least 9 mm ² , wherein the receiver comprises, at least partially, a widened neck, And the receiver facing the side openings, thereby making it easier for material to flow toward the side openings. 52. The device according to claim 51, wherein the distance between the side opening (21) and the opposing wall of the widened neck is at least 1.5 mm. 44. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the cover provides a radial clearance to the receiver when the applicator rests on the receiver. 54. The device of claim 53, wherein the upper end of the lid provides an outer diameter that is smaller than the inner diameter of the neck. 45. An apparatus according to claim 44, wherein the sealing cap (5) comprises a plurality of fins (120) disposed on an inner face of the sealing cap (5). 44. The device of claim 43, wherein the device comprises an outer ring (125) secured to an outer surface of the receiver. 44. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein a vent is formed between the top edge of the cover and the portion of the applicator to which the cover is fixed. 2. Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the bundle (10) of the bristle comprises at least two bristle (11) in different volumes. The applicator according to claim 11, wherein in the bundle (10) the percentage of straight bristle is about 70% and the percentage of bristle with ups and downs is about 30%. Applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the opening (21) extends over at least 16 mm ² . The applicator according to claim 1, wherein the opening (21) extends over about 25 mm ² . 44. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the lid provides a radial clearance of at least 0.5 mm relative to the receiver when the applicator rests on the receiver.

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