Title: APPLICATOR COMPRISING AN OPEN-BRANCH APPLICATION MEMBER

The present invention relates to a device for applying a cosmetic product to the eyelashes and/or eyebrows, notably a make-up or care product, for example mascara, and to the corresponding packaging and application devices. The invention also relates to the method for manufacturing such an application device and to the associated make-up method.

Technical field

US D 682 556 discloses a mascara brush having a plurality of successive pairs of arcuate branches along the longitudinal axis of the core, the branches extending longitudinally from the core and bearing spikes.

The subject matter of application FR 3 039 382 is a member, for applying a cosmetic product, that has a plurality of arcuate branches on either side of the core which are connected together through openings in the core.

Application KR 20160087202 describes a mascara brush that has a twisted core having a helical branch wound about the core.

International application WO 2012/085398 discloses a member, for applying a cosmetic product, having at least one branch extending from the core.

International application WO 2014/054814 discloses a member, for applying a cosmetic product, having a plurality of arcuate branches bearing spikes and extending about the core. The branches may extend helically about the core. The application member is manufactured in the form of at least two assembled parts.

International application WO 2015/092586 describes a member, for applying a cosmetic product, having a plurality of arcuate branches twisted about the core.

International application WO 2017/212123 discloses a member, for applying a cosmetic product, having a plurality of arcuate, helical branches extending from the core and having spikes.

Application WO 2017/098134 discloses a member, for applying a cosmetic product, having protuberances each forming a loop delimiting a through-opening. There is a need to further enhance application devices for applying a product, notably mascara, to the eyelashes and/or eyebrows, in order to improve the performance thereof, and, if need be, to allow particular make-up effects to be obtained.

Summary of the invention

The invention aims to meet this objective, and its subject according to one of its aspects is a device, for applying a cosmetic product to the eyelashes and/or eyebrows, comprising a monoblock application member comprising:

a core extending along a longitudinal axis, and

at least one branch extending at least in part along the longitudinal axis of the core, the branch being connected to the core via at least the two ends thereof and comprising at least two through-openings each with a closed contour, in succession along the branch.

“ Longitudinal axis of the core” denotes the line connecting all the centres of mass of the transverse sections of the core. The longitudinal axis may be a central axis, or even an axis of symmetry for the core, notably when the core has a circular transverse section or a transverse section in the general form of a regular polygon. The longitudinal axis of the core may be rectilinear or curved and may be contained in a plane, which may be a plane of symmetry for some or even for all the transverse sections of the core. Preferably, the longitudinal axis of the core is rectilinear and coincident with the longitudinal axis of the stem supporting the application member.

"Monoblock" is understood to mean that the application member is made as a single piece. The application member may be made from a single material. In a variant, the application member may comprise a plurality of materials, notably parts made from different materials fused together at their join during manufacture thereof such as to form only a single component. For example, the core comprises a centre made from a flexible material covered with an envelope made from a more rigid material, the two materials being fused together at their joins.

The two through-openings make it possible to form reserves of product and may assist in conferring flexibility on the branch.

Furthermore, the presence of the branch makes it possible to provide gentler contact of the application member with the eyelids or eyelashes, notably when the branch lacks spikes. Aside from the comfortable aspect of applying the application member to the skin, the user will find this reassuring, and may be encouraged to bring the application member right up close to the eye, allowing the cosmetic product to be applied to the base of the eyelashes, or encouraged to press the application member more firmly against the eyelashes and/or eyebrows, more effectively loading the eyelashes with cosmetic product.

The fact that the application member is monoblock makes it possible to facilitate its manufacture and its potential recycling.

The application device may comprise a stem to which the application member is fixed, notably one comprising a housing in which an end piece of the application member is held. Preferably the end piece extends along the longitudinal axis of the core.

Preferably, the application device is symmetrical relative to its longitudinal axis.

The application device may not have a plane of symmetry.

Preferably, the application member is obtained by additive synthesis. The fact that the application device is obtained by additive synthesis means that it is obtained in a single step, the various elements constituting the application device being made from the same material as one another without the need to use a mould.

The application member may be obtained on the basis of a pre-established digital model by solidification of a raw material, slice by slice, from one end of the application member to the other, notably from its distal end to its proximal end or, preferably, from its proximal end to its distal end.

Preferably, the application member is made from a material selected from semi crystalline thermoplastics, notably a polyamide such as nylon 12. These materials make it possible to obtain components that have good mechanical strength and thermal resistance.

In a variant, the application member is made from a material selected from materials that can be polymerized by irradiation with light, notably photo-crosslinkable materials, materials that can be polymerized by catalysis, or materials that can be polymerized by application of heat, notably thermo-crosslinkable materials. This allows manufacturing by means of an additive synthesis process in which the material is solidified by irradiation with light, notably using a laser, by localized catalysis or by localized application of heat.

In a further variant, the application member is made from a material selected from ceramics or metals. Preferably, the application member may have an envelope surface of circular cross section.

The envelope surface may have any shape. Preferably, the envelope surface is cylindrical.

In a variant, the envelope surface section has a continuously variable dimension along the longitudinal axis of the core, notably decreasing towards the ends of the application member, and possibly passing through one or more extrema. This notably facilitates the application of the cosmetic product to the eyelashes at the corner of the eye. The envelope surface is defined by the distal end of at least some of the application elements. For example, the envelope surface may have, seen from the side of the application member, a form that is substantially polygonal, oval, notably circular, ogival, oblong or a peanut shape.

Preferably, the longitudinal axis of the core is rectilinear. In a variant, this axis may have one or more curves.

The core may have a transverse section of circular or polygonal form.

Preferably, the core is hollow. The core may comprise a wall surrounding an interior space, this wall having longitudinal apertures. These latter may extend over substantially the entire length of the core and helically about the longitudinal axis of the core. The helix followed by the longitudinal apertures may have a constant pitch or a variable pitch and be of constant or variable diameter. Such longitudinal apertures allow the formation of reserves of product. Preferably, the helices of the various longitudinal apertures have the same pitch. The presence of such longitudinal apertures makes it possible to have a more flexible core and to form a reserve of product. Furthermore, the fact that they extend helically makes it possible to load the eyelashes and/or eyebrows uniformly by turning the application device upon application.

In a variant, the core is solid over at least 80% of its length, better still over substantially its entire length.

Preferably, the core bears application elements as specified below.

Preferably, the or each branch is spaced from the core by a non-zero distance over at least a part of the length of the branch, better still over the entire length of the branch. The space between the or each branch and the core may form a reserve of product, which makes it possible to increase the load and the autonomy of the application device. Preferably, the or each branch extends along an axis. The distance from the axis of the or each branch to the core may be variable over at least a part of the length thereof, notably pass via at least one extremum, notably at least one maximum. Preferably, the distance from the axis of the or each branch to the core varies in a monotone manner. Preferably, the distance from the axis of the or each branch to the core passes through a single maximum.

The or each branch may extend along a curved axis over at least a part of the length thereof, preferably over the entire length thereof. The axis of the one or more branches may be concave towards the core over at least a part of the length thereof, preferably over the entire length thereof.

The or each branch may be arcuate.

In a variant, the distance from the axis of the or each branch to the longitudinal axis of the core is substantially constant. In this case, the or each branch may be connected to the core at least at the two ends thereof by means of bridges of material. The or each branch may extend longitudinally over a length greater than 1/3, better still 2/3 of the length of the core. Preferably, the branch extends over the entire length of the core.

Preferably, the branch is connected to the core only via the two ends thereof. This may make it more flexible and make the application device more gentle in contact with the eyelids, notably. This may also facilitate eyelash access to the core and to any application elements extending from the core.

In a variant, the branch comprises at least one bridge linking to the core between the two ends thereof, which may contribute to stiffening same, with a view, for example, to reducing deformation thereof upon passage via a wiper.

Preferably, the application device comprises a plurality of branches, notably between 2 and 10 branches, better still between 4 and 8 branches. The branches may be evenly distributed about the core.

At least two branches may extend along mutually parallel longitudinal axes. Preferably, all the branches extend along mutually parallel longitudinal axes.

All the branches may be identical.

Preferably, the one or more branches have no link to the core between the above- mentioned two openings.

Preferably, the or each of the branches does not traverse the core. Preferably, the or each of the branches extends outside the core over the entire length thereof.

The branch(es) may have a variable transverse dimension, in transverse section, along the axis thereof. The larger dimension in transverse section may remain below or equal to 5 mm, preferably being between 1.5 mm and 4 mm.

The branch(es) is (are) preferably flexible. This is due notably to the presence of the openings. This may help the branches to deform upon passage via a wiper, where appropriate.

Preferably, the branches are disconnected from one another. Two adjacent branches may be separated at their base by a distance greater than or equal to 0.2 mm.

Preferably, each branch extends along an axis having a distance to the core, at the point where there is the most space between the branch and the core, of between 0.5 and 5 mm.

The axis of the or each branch may be helical about the longitudinal axis of the core, notably following the longitudinal apertures. A form such as this allows homogeneous loading of the eyelashes and/or eyebrows when the user turns the application device during application of the cosmetic product.

In a variant, the axis of the or each branch is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the core.

The larger dimension in transverse section of the envelope surface of the application member may be defined by the branches. Thus, the branches form a kind of cage that surrounds the core and any application elements present thereon.

The openings traverse the thickness of the corresponding branch.

Each opening is delimited over the entire contour thereof closed by the corresponding branch.

Preferably, the branch comprises more than three, better still more than five, even better still between 5 and 30, preferably between 8 and 15, through-openings of closed contour, in succession along the longitudinal axis of the core.

Preferably, the through-openings each have an elongate form along the axis of the branch. The contours of the through-openings may each be of general oblong, circular or polygonal form. For example, the contours are formed by two straight portions, which are preferably parallel, connected together by rounded portions, notably each in the form of a semicircle.

The openings preferably extend at a distance from the core.

The openings may each extend over a length between 0.65 mm and 5 mm, better still between 2 mm and 3 mm along the longitudinal axis of the core. The openings may have a width of between 1 mm and 3 mm, better still between 1 mm and 1.5 mm.

Preferably, the or each branch comprises a plurality of links that are contiguous or connected together via links of material, notably thread-like links, each link delimiting one of the through-openings. Two consecutive links may have common ends.

The links may have a circular, oblong or polygonal, and preferably circular, transverse section.

Preferably, the links have a circular or polygonal transverse section. The links may, in cross section, have a diameter of between 0.3 mm and 1.5 mm.

Preferably, the links are each elongate along an axis of extension. The axis of extension thereof is preferably merged with the axis of the branch.

Preferably, at least one of the links is flat.“ Flat linld is understood to mean that the link is flattened in a plane. Preferably, this plane forms a median plane of said link, passing at mid-thickness thereof.

In a variant, at least one of the links is of twisted form.“ Link of twisted form” is understood to mean that the orientation of the major axis of the link in transverse section varies in the direction along the axis of the branch. The angle may vary continuously, linearly or otherwise. Each link may have a total rotation of the major axis thereof in cross section through an angle of between 10° and 90°, better still between 30° and 60°.

In cross section, the major axis of two consecutive links may be rotated relative to one another.

Preferably, the major axes of the two consecutive links together form, at the junction of the links, an angle of between 10° and 90°, better still between 45° and 70°.

Preferably, the median planes of two consecutive links are non-coplanar.

The application member may comprise a plurality of application elements.

“ Application elements’’ denotes individualizable projecting elements designed to come into engagement with the eyelashes and/or eyebrows. The application elements may be in the form of spikes or of teeth; preferably, the application elements borne by the core are in the form of spikes.

“Teeth” is understood to mean application elements having at least one flattened transverse section. The teeth can be as described in patent applications FR 3006566 and FR 3004905.

The application member may comprise application elements, notably spikes, extending from the branch. Preferably, the application elements do not extend towards the exterior of the application device. The application elements may extend towards the interior of the application device. This makes it possible to preserve the gentle nature of the application device whilst creating an ability to separate and to comb the eyelashes. At least a part of the application elements may extend towards the core. This makes it possible locally to reduce the distance between the core and the branch, which improves product retention between the core and the branch by creating capillary bridges of product between the application elements and the core upon use of the application device.

The application elements may extend into the openings. This may facilitate product retention therein, by capillary effect.

Preferably, the application member comprises application elements, notably spikes, extending from the core. Preferably, the application elements are axes of extension perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the core and may be connected at their base perpendicularly to the surface of the core. The application member may comprise at least one, preferably a plurality of, rows of application elements connecting to the core, the rows of application elements being arranged between two adjacent branches, preferably equidistant therefrom.

Preferably, the rows of application elements borne by the core each extend along a longitudinal axis parallel to the axis of the or each branch.

The application elements borne by the core are preferably arranged along at least one row extending along an axis that is straight or otherwise, notably curved, in particular helical.

In a variant, the application elements borne by the core extend over a longitudinal portion of the core that has no branches when the branches do not extend over the entire length of the core. For example, the branches do not extend over the distal part of the core, i.e. extend, for example, over the proximal part and between the proximal and distal parts, and application elements extend over the distal part of the core, or the branches do not extend over the proximal and distal parts of the core, i.e. only between the proximal and distal parts, and application elements extend over the proximal and distal parts of the core.

Preferably, the consecutive application elements borne by the core are all spaced apart by the same distance, defined between the axes of extension of two consecutive application elements at their base, of between 0.1 mm and 5 mm, better still between 0.5 mm and 1 mm.

Preferably, the application elements borne by the core extend over a height less than or equal to the maximum height of the branch(es) along the core.

The height of at least one application element borne by the core, measured from the core, may be between 0.2 mm and 5 mm, even between 0.5 mm and 3 mm.“ Height of an application device element’ denotes the distance, measured along the axis of extension of the application element, between its free end and its base via which it is connected to the core.

Preferably, the height of the application elements borne by the core varies, for example in a monotonous manner, along the longitudinal axis of the core. In a variant, the height of the application elements is constant along the longitudinal axis of the core. The height of the application elements may decrease in the direction of the distal and proximal ends of the application device.

Preferably, the application elements borne by the core are inscribed in the envelope surface defined by the branches.

Preferably, the bases of the consecutive application elements borne by the core of each row are arranged along a helical path about the longitudinal axis of the core, notably along a path of the same form as the longitudinal axes of the longitudinal apertures.

Preferably, the ends of the application elements extend along a helical path about the longitudinal axis of the core, which is notably identical to the axis of the branch(es).

Certains application elements of the application device, or even all the application elements, may have a thickness of between 0.3 mm and 0.85 mm, better still between 0.5 mm and 0.75 mm.“ Thickness of an application element » denotes the larger transverse dimension of the application element perpendicularly to the axis of extension of the application element. This larger transverse dimension is notably a diameter when the application element has a transverse section of circular or semicircular form. The application elements may be of any form, with axial symmetry or symmetry of revolution, or without symmetry. The application elements may have a cylindrical or tapered, notably conical, semi-conical, frustoconical or pyramidal shape, in particular with a hexagonal base.

The transverse section of the application elements may have a substantially semi circular (“crescent”), or semi-elliptical form, or may further be, for example, polygonal, notably hexagonal.

Preferably, the application device is manufactured by additive synthesis, notably manufactured by solidification of successive slices of the application member.

A further subject of the invention is a device for packaging and applying a product to the eyelashes and/or eyebrows, comprising an application device as defined above and a container containing the product.

The gripping member of the application device may form a cap for closing the container. In a variant, the gripping member of the application device forms the container containing the product, the core is hollow and the application member comprises orifices for supplying the application member with product.

The container may comprise a wiping member suitable for wiping the stem and the application member.

The product is preferably a mascara.

A further subject of the invention is a method for manufacturing an application device according to the invention, as defined above, wherein a blank of the application member or the application member itself is produced in successive layers with relative movement of the part already formed in the direction away from the formation zone.

The application member may be produced starting from its distal part and the application elements may lack protuberances extending at least in part towards the distal end.

The application member may be produced starting from its proximal part and the application elements may lack protuberances extending at least in part towards the proximal end.

Such a method allows a monoblock application member to be manufactured, the various elements of the application member being made from the same material as one another without the need to use a mould. Such a method also allows the development of new forms of application member, particularly those that cannot be produced by injection moulding because of the presence of undercuts.

The method may comprise:

(i) production of a digital model of the application member,

(ii) solidification of a raw material that is able to flow, as a function of the digital model.

The raw material may be liquid, notably a photo-crosslinkable or powder material.

In the case of a photo-crosslinkable raw material, in step (ii) the raw material may be solidified slice by slice, by irradiation of the photo-crosslinkable raw material.

In the case of a powdery raw material, step (ii) can be performed by sintering the powder raw material layer by layer.

The method for manufacturing by additive synthesis may be a process of filament deposition printing (FDM), stereolithography (SLA), Multi Jet Fusion (MLF), selective laser sintering (SLS) or Digital Light Processing (DLP), notably CLIP (Continuous Liquid Interface Production), preferably MLF.

Preferably, the method for manufacturing is a Multi Jet Fusion technique. This method may comprise the steps consisting in:

a) depositing a layer of the powder material on a printing substrate, b) dispensing one or more coalescence agents and coalescence modifiers onto parts of the layer which are determined on the basis of the digital model of the application member,

c) applying energy to the layer of powder material, notably by irradiation with infrared or near infrared light, such as to cause at least partial melting of the parts to which the coalescence agent or agents have been applied,

d) cooling the layer of powder material to solidify the fused parts, e) repeating steps a) to d), the layer of powder material previously deposited forming the printing substrate, in order to produce, continuously in successive layers, solid parts which adhere to one another such as to form the application member. The powder material may be a material in powder form selected from a semi-crystalline thermoplastic, notably a polyamide such as nylon 12 or PA220, preferably pure, metal, composite, ceramic, glass, resin or polymer.

The coalescence agent or agents may be a composition of an ink type comprising carbon black, for example the ink composition CM997A available notably from the Hewlett- Packard Company. The coalescence agent or agents may additionally comprise an infrared and/or near infrared and/or visible light absorber, notably the ink compositions CE039A and CE042A available notably from the Hewlett-Packard Company.

The coalescence modifying agent or agents may be a colloidal ink, a dye-based ink or a polymer-based ink. The coalescence modifying agent or agents may comprise solid compounds or compounds in solution, notably may be a saline solution. The coalescence modifying agent or agents may be the ink composition CM996A or CN673A available notably from the Hewlett-Packard Company. Preferably, the layer of powder material has a thickness of between 90 and 110 microns.

Preferably, the printing plate has a dimension ranging from 10 cm by 10 cm, to 100 cm by 100 cm.

The method for manufacturing the application device may be as described in international application W02015106816.

In a variant, the method for manufacturing by additive synthesis comprises: a) localized irradiation by a light source, notably a laser, in a predefined formation zone, of a fluid photo-curable material contained in a vat such as to form one or more polymerized solid parts in the polymerizable material in said formation zone, the polymerized solid part or parts being attached to a substrate, the irradiation site or sites in the predefined formation zone being determined on the basis of the digital model of the application member,

b) moving the substrate and the polymerized solid parts attached to the latter relative to the light source, in the direction away from the formation zone such as to free the polymerized solid parts from the formation zone, the formation zone once again filling up with fluid photo-curable material,

c) repeating steps a) and b) in order to produce continuously, in successive layers, solid parts that adhere to one another such as to form the application member. The vat preferably comprises a surface in fluidic communication with a source of polymerization inhibitor, step a) being performed while forming or keeping a fluid zone between the predefined formation zone and said surface, in which fluid zone the polymerization of the fluid photo-crosslinkable material is inhibited by the polymerization inhibitor.

Preferably, the polymerization inhibitor is oxygen.

Preferably, the fluid zone has a height less than or equal to 1 mm, preferably between 500 pm and 0.01 pm, better still between 100 pm and 10 pm.

Preferably, the localized irradiation and movement of the substrate are continuous, the fluid zone and the formation zone having at the interface thereof a polymerisation gradient such that manufacture of the application member is substantially continuous. This makes it possible to limit the presence of apparent strata as in additive synthesis manufacturing methods manufacturing the object layer by layer.

The process preferably comprises an additional step of heating the formed application member. This allows stiffening of the structure of the application member manufactured and smooths out its surface.

The method for manufacturing the application device may be as described in international applications WO2014126830 and WO2014126837.

The method preferably comprises an additional step of heating the formed application member. This improves polymerization of the material of the application member manufactured.

The invention also relates to a method for making up the eyelashes and/or eyebrows using an application device according to the invention as defined above, wherein the product is applied by bringing the application device into contact with the eyelashes and/or eyebrows.

Brief description of the drawings

The invention may be better understood from reading the following detailed description of non-limiting implementation examples thereof, and with reference to the appended drawing, in which:

[Fig 1] shows an application and packaging device according to the invention, [Fig 2] is a schematic perspective representation, in profile, of an application member of an application device according to the invention, [Fig 3] is a perspective view of the application member of Figure 2,

[Fig 4] is a view along IV of the application member of Figure 2 or 3,

[Fig 5] is a cross-sectional view on V-V of the application device of Figures 2 to

4,

[Fig 6] shows a cross section along VI- VI of the application device of Figures 2 to 4,

[Fig 7] shows a cross section along VII- VII of the application device of Figures

2 to 4,

[Fig 8] shows a detail along VIII of Figure 2,

[Fig 9] shows a detail along IX of Figure 2,

[Fig 10] shows a variant of branches of an application device according to the invention,

[Fig 11] shows a variant of branches of an application device according to the invention,

[Fig 12] shows a variant of branches of an application device according to the invention,

[Fig 13] shows a variant of branches of an application device according to the invention,

[Fig 14] shows a variant of branches of an application device according to the invention,

[Fig 15] shows a variant of branches of an application device according to the invention,

[Fig 16] shows a variant of branches of an application device according to the invention,

[Fig 17] shows a variant of branches of an application device according to the invention,

[Fig 18] shows a variant of an application member according to the invention, [Fig 19] shows a variant of an application member according to the invention, [Fig 20] shows a variant of an application member according to the invention, [Fig 21] shows a variant of an application member according to the invention, [Fig 22] shows a variant of an application member according to the invention, [Fig 23] shows a variant of an application member according to the invention, [Fig 24] a to f illustrate steps in the manufacture of the application member according to the invention,

[Fig 25] shows a device for manufacturing the application member according to the manufacturing steps of Figures 24a-f,

[Fig 26] illustrates a first step of a variant method for manufacturing the application member according to the invention, and

[Fig 27] illustrates a second step of the variant method for manufacturing the application member according to Figure 26.

Detailed description

Figure 1 shows a packaging and application device 1 produced in accordance with the invention, comprising an application device 2 and an associated container 3 containing a product P to be applied to the eyelashes and/or eyebrows, for example mascara or a care product.

The container 3 comprises, in the example in question, a threaded neck 4 and the application device 2 comprises a closure cap 5 designed to be fastened on the neck 4 so as to close the container 3 in a sealed manner when it is not in use, the closure cap 5 also constituting a gripping member for the application device 2.

The container 3 may also be produced differently.

The application device 2 comprises a stem 7 of longitudinal axis Y, which is attached at its upper end to the closure cap 5 and at its lower end to an application member 8. The latter comprises a core 10 bearing spikes 18 that extend from the core 10 and all around the latter.

The container 3 also comprises a wiping member 6, for example inserted into the neck 4.

This wiping member 6, which may be any wiping member, comprises, in the example in question, a lip designed to wipe the stem 7 and the application member 8 when the application device 2 is withdrawn from the container 3. The lip defines a wiping orifice 6a having a diameter adapted to that of the stem.

The wiping member 6 may be made of elastomer.

The wiping member 6 may comprise a wiping orifice 6a with a circular shape, optionally with slots. The diameter of the wiping orifice 6a of the wiping member 6 is for example between 2.5 and 6 mm, being for example around 3.5 mm or 5 mm.

The wiping member 6 may optionally have undulations, allowing the wiping orifice to widen more easily when the application member 8 passes through.

The wiping member may also be adjustable, if appropriate.

In the example illustrated, the stem 7 has a circular transverse section, but it would not constitute a departure from the scope of the present invention if the stem 7 were to have a different cross section, it then being possible to fasten the cap 5 on the container 3 in some other way than by screwing, if necessary. The wiping member 6 is adapted to the shape of the stem 7 and to that of the application member 8, if appropriate.

Preferably, and as in the example in question, the longitudinal axis Y of the stem 7 is rectilinear and coincident with the longitudinal axis of the container 3 when the application device 2 is in place thereon, but it would not constitute a departure from the scope of the present invention if the stem 7 were not rectilinear, forming, for example, an elbow.

If need be, the stem 7 may have an annular narrowing at its portion that is positioned opposite the lip of the wiping member 6, so as not to mechanically stress the latter unduly during storage.

The stem 7, to which the application member 8 is fixed, may be at least partially, notably completely, flexible, in particular in the vicinity of the application member.

The application member 8 may be fixed to the stem 7 by any means, and notably by force-fitting, snap-fastening, adhesive bonding, welding, stapling or crimping, in a corresponding housing provided at the end of the stem 7.

As illustrated in Figure 2, the application member 8 may have an end piece 9 (not shown in Figure 2) for fixing it in a corresponding housing of the stem 7.

One example of an application member according to the invention is described in relation to Figures 2 to 9 below.

The application member 8 comprises a core 10 and a plurality of arcuate branches 20 extending from the core 10.

The core 10 is of elongate form along a longitudinal axis X. The longitudinal axis X is rectilinear but, as in a variant, could be curved. The longitudinal axis X is central, but this could be different. The length H of the core 10 is, for example, between 15 mm and 27 mm.

As may be seen in Figures 6 and 7, the core 10 is hollow and comprises a wall 12 surrounding an interior space 14. The wall 12 comprises longitudinal apertures 16 extending over substantially the entire length of the core 10. The apertures 16 each extend helically about the core, following, in the example in question, a constant-pitch helix. The helices followed by the various apertures 16 are identical to within one rotation about the longitudinal axis X of the core. As illustrated, the helix followed by the apertures may make less than one complete rotation about the longitudinal axis of the core 10. For example, between the distal end and the proximal end of the core, the helix has rotated through between 90° and 145°, notably substantially equal to 120°. The core 10 comprises, in the example illustrated, six apertures 16 distributed equally distantly about the longitudinal axis X thereof.

The application member comprises a plurality of rows of spikes 19 extending from the core 10, notably from the wall 12 of the latter. The rows of spikes 19 each extend between two apertures 16. In the example illustrated, the core comprises 6 rows of spikes 19.

The spikes 19 of one row are aligned with one another at their base, on a helix having the same pitch as that described by an aperture 16. The spikes 19 extend radially outwards from the core. They are each, for example, of circular cross section and taper towards their distal end. The spikes 19 of one and the same row are all spaced from one another by the same distance. Each row comprises, for example, between 10 and 40 spikes, better still between 15 and 30 spikes. The spikes 19 of adjacent rows may all be aligned in the circumferential direction about the core, as illustrated in Figure 6. The spikes 19 are of such a height that they do not, in the radial direction, reach beyond the arcuate branches 20.

The arcuate branches 20 are distributed equi distantly about the core 10 and connect to the latter via their two ends 22 and 24.

The arcuate branches 20 extend over substantially the entire length H of the core

10

The branches 20 each extend along a concave axis B towards the core 10. The axis B follows a helical path about the longitudinal axis X, following the helix of the apertures 16. The application member 8 comprises as many branches 26 as it does apertures 16, and the branches 26 are preferably identical to within one rotation about the core 10. In the example illustrated, the application device member comprises six branches 26.

The axis B of the branch is spaced from the core over substantially its entire length. It is spaced from the core 10 at its highest point by a distance d of between 0.5 and 5 mm.

The branches 20 comprise a plurality of successive links 26 extending along the axis B. The links 26 are, seen front-on, as may be seen in Figure 8, of elongate form along a major axis A tangential to the axis B. The links each comprise, in projection in a median plane M, two straight portions 30 connected to one another by semicircles 32. The links 26 each delimit a through-opening 28 of closed contour.

As may be seen in Figure 9, in particular, the links 26 are twisted about their axis of extension A, their cross section turning through an angle of between 30° and 60°, for example substantially equal to 45° along the axis B of the branch.

As illustrated in Figures 8 and 9, the links 26 are contiguous and are connected to one another at their axial ends 34. As illustrated in Figures 6 and 9, two consecutive links 26 may not be coplanar at their join and form, at their join, an angle a of between 45° and 70°, for example substantially equal to 60°, in the manner of a chain, as illustrated in Figure 6

In the variants illustrated in Figures 10 to 15, the branches 20 are different from those of the embodiment of Figures 1 to 9.

The branches 20 may connect to the core between their two ends 22 and 24, as illustrated in Figure 10.

The consecutive links 26 of one branch 20 may be joined together by links 39 of thread-like material, as illustrated in Figure 11.

The links 26 and the openings 28 may be of different form. For example, the links 26 and the openings 28 may be of rectangular form and the links 26 are contiguous with one another via one of their minor sides, as illustrated in Figure 12.

In a variant, the links 26 and the openings 28 may be of lozenge form and the links 26 are contiguous with one another via one of their sides, as illustrated in Figure 13. In a further variant, the links 26 and the openings 28 may be of hexagon form and the links 26 are contiguous with one another via one of their corners, as illustrated in Figure 14.

In a further variant, the links 26 and the openings 28 may be in the form of a peanut, as illustrated in Figure 15.

In a further variant, the links 26 and the openings 28 may be of any other form and the links may be connected differently.

The branches 20 of the embodiments of Figures 16 and 17 differ from the branches previously illustrated in that they are not arcuate, but substantially rectilinear. They each extend along a substantially rectilinear axis B. The distance d between the axis B and the core 10 is substantially constant along the branch 20. The branches 20 are connected to the core at their ends via bridges 38 of material. The branch 20 may lack an additional link to the core, as illustrated in Figure 16, or comprise one or more additional link bridges 39, as illustrated in Figure 17, notably to stiffen the branch and limit its flexing.

Figures 18 to 23 illustrate variants of an application member according to the invention that differ from the embodiments previously illustrated in terms of the arrangement and the extension of the branches 20 and of the application elements 19.

In the embodiments of Figures 18 and 19, the branches 20 extend along rectilinear longitudinal axes B parallel to the longitudinal axis X of the core.

In the embodiments of Figures 20 and 21, the branches 20 each extend along a helical axis B.

As illustrated in Figures 19 and 21, the branches 20 may alternate with the rows of application elements 19 on the core 10, the rows of application elements extending parallel to the branches 20. These application elements are spikes in the example illustrated.

In a variant, as illustrated in Figures 22 and 23, the branches 20 may extend over only a part A of the length of the core 10. The remaining part B, namely the proximal or distal part of the core 10, or the remaining parts B and C, namely the proximal and distal parts of the core 10, may then comprise application elements 19 in the form of spikes.

The application member 8 may be manufactured using a device for manufacturing by additive synthesis on the basis of a digital model of the application member 8. The digital model faithfully represents the application member 8 in three dimensions, and may be generated using a computer-assisted design software such as SolidWorks 3D.

As illustrated in Figures 24a-f and 25, the device for manufacturing 50 may comprise a printing substrate 51, a dispenser of powder material 53 designed to supply a layer of powder material 63 onto the printing substrate 51, a first agent dispenser 55 for delivering one or more coalescence agents 65 onto the layer of powder material 63, a second agent dispenser 57 for providing one or more coalescence modifying agents 67, and an energy source 59.

During manufacture, the powder material dispenser 53 deposits a first layer of powder material 63 over the entire surface of the printing substrate 51, as shown in Figure 24a, moving the material dispenser 53 along the axis Yd. One or more coalescence agents 65 and/or coalescence modifiers 67 are then deposited on parts of the layer 63, as shown in Figure 24a, by moving the associated dispensers along the axis Yd. Those parts of the layer 63 on which the agents 65 and the modifiers 67 are deposited are determined according to the digital model created beforehand.

Once the coalescence agents 65 and coalescence modifiers 67 have been deposited, they penetrate the layer 63 at least partially, as may be seen in Figure 24b. Lastly, energy is applied to the entire layer 63 using the source 51. Application of this energy allows those parts onto which the coalescence agent(s) 65 has/have been applied to melt at least partially, which, once the layer has cooled, allows the melted parts to solidify, as shown in Figure 24c. The modifiers 67 enable the fused zones to have sharp edges by preventing the fusion of the peripheral zones. After the material layer 63 has been treated as described above, a new layer 73 of powder material is deposited on the layer 63 previously treated, as illustrated in Figure 24d. The process explained above may then be repeated to generate the three-dimensional application member layer by layer, as shown in Figures 24d-f.

During manufacture, the substrate 51 moves along the axis z in such a way that, as new layers of material are deposited, a predefined gap is maintained between the surface of the layer deposited most recently and the dispensers 55 and 57. In a variant, the substrate 51 does not move along the axis z and the dispensers 55 and 57 may be able to move along this axis. Preferably, the application member 8 is manufactured using this device from its proximal end 13, i.e. the end intended to be connected to the stem 7, at its distal end 11. The reverse is also possible.

A manufacturing process of this type, suitable for production of the application device is described notably in international application W02015106816.

In a variant, the application member 8 is manufactured using a different device for manufacturing by additive synthesis, notably by light irradiation of a photo-crosslinkable material, as shown in Figures 26 and 27. In the example in question, the device for manufacturing may comprise a light source 40, a vat 42 arranged above the light source 40, and a substrate 46. The vat 42 is at least partially transparent to the radiation emitted by the light source. It contains a liquid photo-crosslinkable material 44.

During manufacture, the light source 40 is controlled according to the digital model in order to crosslink the liquid material 44 in a formation zone between the substrate 46 and the plate 42, following a pattern dependent on the digital model. The crosslinked parts of the liquid material 44 are solid. Before manufacture, as illustrated in Figure 26, the substrate 46 dips into the liquid material 44 and the formation zone is in contact with the substrate 46 such that the liquid material 44 is crosslinked on the substrate 46 and attaches to the latter. During manufacture, as illustrated in Figure 27, the substrate 46 is moved away from the light source 40 at the speed of manufacture of the application member 8, such that the crosslinked parts are produced in successive layers, each crosslinked layer being attached to the preceding layer.

The vat 42 may have a surface 48 between the substrate 46 and the light source 40 that is in fluidic communication with a polymerization inhibitor source, notably an oxygen source. The polymerization inhibitor allows the liquid material 44 to be maintained in liquid form by preventing its polymerization by the light irradiation, in a fluid zone of non-zero thickness. This fluid zone extends from the surface 48 to the formation zone and allows the circulation of liquid towards the formation zone. Preferably, the fluid zone has a thickness of between 10 pm and 100 pm.

The interface between the fluid zone and the formation zone may not be sharp, but may be formed by a gradient of polymerization. In this case, the substrate 46 is moved continuously and irradiation by the light source 40 is continuous. Preferably, the application member 8 is manufactured using this installation, from its proximal end 13 to its distal end 11. The reverse is also possible.

After manufacture of the application member 8, the latter is detached from the substrate 46 and heated such as to stiffen and to smooth out the structure.

A method for manufacturing of this type suitable for production of the application device is described notably in international applications WO2014126830 and WO2014126837.

In a variant, the application member 8 is manufactured using a different device for manufacturing by additive synthesis, notably by filament deposition printing (FDM), stereolithography (SLA) or selective laser sintering (SLS).

The invention is not limited to the illustrative embodiments described above.

The device may comprise a reservoir of product and the application device is mounted via its proximal end 13 on the reservoir. In that case, the application device comprises a hollow core and apertures allowing the supply of cosmetic product to the application device.