Title: Applicator for applying a cosmetic composition to the eyelashes or eyebrows

Technical field

The present invention relates to applicators for applying a cosmetic composition to the eyelashes or eyebrows, having an applicator member composed of a core and a plurality of individual elements attached to the core, each individual element having a hub fitted onto the core and at least one application element carried by the hub, and to packaging and application devices having a container containing the product to be applied and the applicator.

Prior art

Patent US 8 899 241 B2 discloses an applicator of the type above. The core is for example composed of a metal hairpin folded over on itself and twisted or a shaft with a non-circular cross section, one or more openings of corresponding shapes passing through the hub.

Other examples of applicators of this type are described in applications W02019053078, W02019053080, W02019053081, W02019053084 and

W02019053087.

The container is conventionally provided with a wiping member which wipes the stem of the applicator as it is withdrawn from the container. The behaviour of the applicator member on passing through the wiping member depends on numerous factors, such as the shape and nature of the lip of the wiping member, the shape of the join between the stem and the applicator member, and the arrangement of the application elements on the applicator member.

A compromise has to be found with regard to the quantity of product which is left on the applicator member for application of makeup. Excessive wiping of the applicator member causes the latter to be insufficiently loaded and obliges the user to frequently dip the applicator back into the container. Insufficient wiping leaves an excess of product that is difficult to manage and could result in clumps of product on poorly separated eyelashes.

The application WO2017/102294A1 discloses an applicator having a guard element disposed at the proximal end of the core. Such an element makes it possible to modify the opening of the wiping member during the withdrawal of the applicator, bringing about less significant wiping of the distal part of the applicator. There is a need to further improve applicators of the type above in order notably to improve their performance, notably in terms of ergonomics and/or loading with product, and/or facilitate their manufacture and make it possible, if appropriate, to obtain particular makeup effects.

Disclosure of the invention

The invention aims to meet this need and achieves this aim according to a first aspect by virtue of an applicator for applying a cosmetic composition to the eyelashes or eyebrows, having an applicator member, said member having: a core, a plurality of individual elements attached to the core, each individual element having a hub fitted onto the core and at least one application element carried by the hub, the hub of at least one of the individual elements having, on one face, at least one protruding relief able to engage in a recess of corresponding shape that is provided on the facing face of the hub of the adjacent individual element.

First of all, the presence of the protruding reliefs makes it possible to prevent the cosmetic composition from being trapped in the gap regions close to the core, or limits this risk. The invention thus makes it possible to reduce or even avoid trapped composition being formed, this being likely to happen between the adjacent individual elements.

Moreover, the protruding reliefs make it possible to create reserves of composition at a certain radial distance from the core which can be accessed by the eyelashes and/or eyebrows. Consequently, the autonomy of the applicator and its cosmetic product loading capacity are increased.

Depending on the application of makeup that is sought, it is possible to choose the play between the elements and therefore the volume of the reserves such that more or less composition accumulates between the elements. The play between the individual elements is advantageously adjustable. Depending on the pressure applied to the stack of individual elements along the longitudinal axis of the core, notably during manufacture, said play may be more or less great. In particular, the higher the pressure is, that is to say the greater the extent to which the individual elements are clamped, the smaller the play is.

Moreover, depending on the shape given to the complementary reliefs, it is possible to give the elements more or less freedom of movement, and notably to position the individual elements with a predefined orientation in relation to one another. It is thus possible to obtain applicator members that have more or less complex shapes with portions that can be wiped non-homogeneously, as will be described below. In particular, it is possible to give the complementary reliefs a shape that enables the elements to pivot in relation to one another, about an axis of rotation perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the applicator member. Such relative pivoting makes it possible to give the core one or more curvatures, in one and the same plane or in different planes, and/or curvatures in the same direction or in opposite directions. It is possible for this pivoting to occur only during manufacture, with the applicator then keeping the shape given to it during manufacture, given the clamping between the individual elements. In a variant, the applicator remains able to be shaped by the user.

According to a second aspect, independent of the first or that can be combined therewith, the present invention aims to meet the need above and achieves this aim by virtue of an applicator for applying a cosmetic composition to the eyelashes or eyebrows, having: an applicator member having a proximal end, which defines a rear face, and an opposite distal end, and a guard element, which is disposed at the proximal end of the applicator member and has a front face provided with at least one first relief able to engage in a second relief of corresponding shape that is provided on the rear face of the applicator member.

The applicator preferably has a stem which supports the applicator member at one end.

One of the first and second reliefs may be a protruding relief and the other relief may be a recessed relief and, preferably, the first relief is a protruding relief and the second relief is a recessed relief.

The presence of the guard element and its mechanical connection to the application element by way of matching shapes has multiple advantages.

First of all, this element makes it possible to modify the opening of the wiping member during the withdrawal of the applicator, thus bringing about less significant wiping of the distal part of the applicator.

The guard element may be fixed relative to the stem of the applicator.

Depending on the shape given to the complementary reliefs, it is possible to give the applicator member more or less freedom of movement relative to the guard element.

The interaction between the guard element and the applicator member can impose a predefined orientation on the applicator member in relation to the guard element, and, indirectly, in relation to the stem of the applicator.

It is also possible to give the complementary reliefs a shape allowing the applicator member to pivot relative to the guard element, notably about a geometric axis of rotation perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the applicator member. The first and second reliefs may thus be arranged so as to form a ball joint connection. It is possible for this pivoting freedom to occur only during manufacture, with the applicator then keeping the shape given to it during manufacture, given for example the clamping between the applicator member and the guard element. In a variant, the applicator remains able to be shaped by the user.

Features of the first and second aspects of the invention can be combined whenever possible.

Core

The applicator may comprise a stem to which the applicator member is fixed. The applicator member has a core that extends along a longitudinal axis.

“Longitudinal axis of the core ” is understood to mean the line joining the set of barycentres of the cross sections of the core. The longitudinal axis may be a central axis, or even an axis of symmetry of the core.

In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the core is rectilinear and may coincide with the longitudinal axis of the stem supporting the applicator member.

The longitudinal axis may coincide with the longitudinal axis of the stem supporting the applicator member. As mentioned above, depending on the shape given to the reliefs of the guard element according to the second aspect of the invention and the applicator member, it is possible to position the applicator member with a predefined orientation in relation to the stem of the applicator.

In one variant, the longitudinal axis of the core forms a non-zero angle with the longitudinal axis of the stem. This angle may be between 1° and 30°, for example, and in particular close to 10°.

In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the core is not rectilinear. “Not rectilinear'' is understood to mean that the core changes direction between its proximal end and its distal end.

The longitudinal axis of the core may be bent. The core has for example a rectilinear proximal portion, and has at least one bend made between this proximal portion and the distal end of the core.

The longitudinal axis of the core may be curved. The longitudinal axis may have one or more curves. It is possible for the curvature of the core to be constant or not constant along the applicator member.

The curvature not being constant over the length of the applicator member means that the radius of curvature is not the same at least at two different points along the applicator member.

The core may thus have a greater curvature on the side of its distal end than on the side of the stem, for example, or else have a rectilinear or substantially rectilinear portion and a curved portion.

The longitudinal axis of the core having one or more curves makes it possible to load the application elements with composition nonuniformly by virtue of the fact that at least some parts of the applicator member are off-centre in relation to the axis of the stem and thus in relation to the axis of a wiper through which the applicator member passes when it is withdrawn from the container.

This allows the user to benefit from a reserve of product on the applicator member that makes it possible to locally load the eyelashes and/or eyebrows with an additional amount of composition. This also allows the user to have, on the applicator member, parts that are wiped to a greater extent which effectively separate the eyelashes, notably the small eyelashes situated at the ends of the eyelid.

Furthermore, the one or more curvatures exhibited by the longitudinal axis of the core may also be set in order to improve the ergonomics and the precision of use of the applicator, notably by being adapted to the curvature of the eye for an application of mascara to the eyelashes or of the brow line, for example.

The longitudinal axis of the core may be present or not present in a plane.

The longitudinal axis may be curved about at least one axis of curvature.

The longitudinal axis of the core may be curved about at least two axes of curvature. The axes of curvature may be coplanar. These axes of curvature may be parallel or intersect.

The axes of curvature may be non-coplanar. It is possible for these axes of curvature to intersect or not to intersect.

The free end of the core, opposite to the stem, may be off-centre in relation to the axis of the stem.

If desired, it is possible to produce the applicator member such that the end of the core is off-centre in relation to the axis of the stem, and that, when the applicator member passes through the wiper, it elastically deforms upon passing through it and, once it has passed through, returns to an initial configuration, performing a movement which can have the effect of shearing off a possible drop of product present at the end of the brush. As a result, the risk of there being a drop of product at the free end of the applicator is reduced, such a drop being likely to be bothersome during the application.

The core may be twisted, notably made with two strands which are twisted together. A helical spread of the applicator members is thus obtained along the longitudinal axis of the core. This enables particular makeup application effects with good combing of the eyelashes and good separation of the latter. The core may be formed of one or more metal strands, preferably two strands, which may be part of a U-shaped hairpin, the arms of which are inserted at their free end into at least one corresponding recess in the stem.

While the core is being twisted, the cross section of the individual elements in contact with it undergoes a shear stress. The presence of the protruding reliefs makes it possible to increase this cross section and thus limit the shear effects at the join between the core and the individual elements.

Guard element

According to the second aspect of the invention, the guard element is preferably attached to the stem, but in a variant may be made by moulding therewith.

When the guard element is attached, it is preferably fixed relative to the stem. The guard element for example axially bears against the adjacent end of the stem and is kept in this position by the metal core of the applicator member, which passes through the guard element. One or two openings for the passage of the core or the strands thereof may pass through the guard element. The strands may pass through the guard element in the twisted or untwisted state.

“ Front face'' denotes that face of the guard element that is directed towards the distal end of the applicator member, that is to say towards the end opposite the stem.

The guard element may have a peripheral part surrounding a central part, the central part preferably having the aforementioned first relief on its face.

The peripheral part may have a contour, in front view, with a circular overall shape.

The guard element may have an outer shape exhibiting axial symmetry and/or symmetry of revolution.

The peripheral part may have a flattened overall shape with, for example, a radially outer surface in the form of a cylinder of revolution.

The front face of the guard element may have an annular surface at the peripheral part which has, in axial cross section, an inclination with a non-zero angle in relation to a plane perpendicular to a central axis of the element. Said face may be slightly conical around the central part.

The peripheral part may have a thickness, which is preferably constant, of between 0.5 mm and 20 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 10 mm, and in particular between 2 mm and 5 mm.

The guard element may have a radially outer surface which is smooth or provided with reliefs.

The guard element may play a decorative role by virtue of a radially outer surface bearing a pattern which is decorative, notably printed or etched, and/or has a particular appearance, for example reflective, notably golden or silvery.

The radially outer surface of the guard element that is visible may be metallized.

The guard element may be made of metallized or non-metallized plastics material, of ceramic, or from other materials. The guard element may be made of the same plastics material as the stem or the applicator member, or a plastics material from the same chemical family, able to be recycled jointly.

It is possible for the guard element to be the same colour or not be the same colour as the stem and/or the applicator member. The outside diameter of the guard element may be greater than that of the adjacent part of the stem, for example by at least 10%, better still by at least 20%.

The outside diameter of the guard element may be less than or equal to the largest diameter of the applicator member.

“Diameter” is to be understood as meaning that of the smallest circle in which the contour can be inscribed. For example, in the case of a square cross section, the diameter is that of the circle circumscribed by the corners of the square.

The stem may be in contact with the guard element without engaging in it; in a variant, the stem is push-fitted in the guard element, the latter having on its rear face a recess for receiving the stem, the stem having for example a conical distal end; in another variant, the guard element is push-fitted in the stem, the guard element being configured to partially engage in a recess in the stem.

The guard element may be monolithic and made of one and the same material or be made of multiple materials, and be for example formed by joining the central part and the peripheral part.

The guard element may have a chamfer on the side of the adjacent end of the stem. This makes it possible to avoid there being a shoulder formed between the stem and the radially outermost surface of the guard element, which would be likely to catch on the wiping member.

Relief

The first relief of the guard element may take up at least 10% of the corresponding face, better still at least 20%, even better still at least 30%, for example approximately 50% of the corresponding face.

The first relief is preferably a protruding relief that extends towards the applicator member.

The protruding relief advantageously has at least one outwardly convex portion, preferably rounded, notably having an envelope with a shape exhibiting symmetry of revolution around the axis of the element.

As a result, as viewed from the side, this relief can have a profile in the shape of a circular or elliptical arc, as is the case in longitudinal section.

Preferably, the contour in longitudinal section of the relief has a constant radius of curvature. This radius of curvature may be between 0.8 mm and 1.5 mm, for example around approximately 1.2 mm. In a variant, this radius of curvature is variable, notably is greater at the highest point of the corresponding face.

The outwardly convex rounded portion may have an outer surface in the form of a spherical, ellipsoidal or parabolic cap, preferably in the form of a spherical cap. The outwardly convex portion may thus have the overall shape of a dome.

The highest point of the outwardly convex zone may be situated in a median plane of the guard element.

The protruding relief may be discontinuous. The protruding relief may have at least two outwardly convex portions, notably each having a rounded shape, with a play between them.

The protruding relief may for example have a plurality of sectors, these sectors for example being able to be inscribed in an envelope surface which is in the shape of a dome, notably spherical, ellipsoidal or parabolic. Providing the sectors can give the guard element more axial deformability, the sectors being able for example to deform by bending and moving closer together when the applicator member is axially clamped against the guard element.

When the relief has a plurality of sectors, they may each have the shape of a dome portion or else the shape of an orange segment.

The relief may have one or more openings for the passage of the core of the applicator member, notably have just two openings, preferably with axes that are parallel to one another and to the central axis of the guard element, for example disposed symmetrically with respect to one another relative to the central axis of the guard element.

Forming the openings in the relief when it is a protruding relief makes it possible, in the case of a twisted core, to limit the shear effects liable to be experienced by these openings when the core is being twisted.

Applicator member

“Rear face'' is understood to mean that face of the applicator member that faces the stem.

The second relief, specifically that of the applicator member, preferably has a complementary shape to that of the first relief of the guard element.

Preferably, the relief of the applicator member is recessed.

The recessed relief may have at least one outwardly concave rounded portion. Preferably, the outwardly concave portion has a rounded shape. The outwardly concave portion may thus have a longitudinal section in the form of a portion of a circle or an ellipse.

The contour of the longitudinal section of the recess may have a radius of curvature which is constant or variable, notably which is greatest at the highest point of the corresponding face.

The highest point of the outwardly concave portion may be situated in a median plane of the hub.

The recessed relief, notably the outwardly convex portion, may take up at least 10% of the rear face of the applicator member, better still at least 20%, even better still at least 30%, for example approximately 50% of the rear face of the applicator member.

Ball joint connection

The outwardly convex portion of rounded shape of the guard element may have a complementary shape to that of the outwardly concave portion of rounded shape of the rear face of the applicator member. Preferably, the concave and convex rounded portions have a substantially identical radius of curvature.

Preferably, the convex rounded portion of the guard element and the concave rounded portion of the applicator member form a ball joint connection.

The ball joint connection may enable rotation about two axes of rotation that are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the core. In some embodiments, before the core is mounted and/or before the core is twisted, the two elements of the ball joint connection may allow rotation about the longitudinal axis of the assembly.

The presence of such a ball joint connection gives a large number of options for shaping the applicator member, notably during manufacture, this making it possible to more easily benefit from an applicator member suitable for applying makeup that it is sought to obtain.

Preferably, the ball joint connection allows an angular displacement of between 0.5° and 30° about at least one of its axes of rotation, notably an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the core.

In some embodiments, the applicator member has application elements, preferably made by moulding material, that are carried by the core and disposed in at least one longitudinal row. In some embodiments, the applicator member has a plurality of individual elements attached to the core, each individual element having a hub fitted onto the core and at least one applicator member carried by the hub.

The hub of the proximal individual element may have, on its rear face, a relief having a complementary shape to that of the relief of the guard element and constituting the aforementioned second relief of the applicator member.

In some embodiments, the hub of each individual element on one face has at least one protruding relief which is able to engage in a recess of corresponding shape that is provided on the facing face of the hub of the adjacent individual element.

Individual elements

According to both aspect of the invention, the applicator may have between 2 and 50, better still between 10 and 40, individual elements.

Preferably, the hub of at least one individual element, preferably of each individual element, has the protruding relief on one of its faces and has the recess of corresponding shape on the other, opposite face.

The face having the protruding relief may correspond to the front face of the individual element. “Front face'' of an individual element is understood to mean that face of the individual element that is directed towards the distal end of the applicator member, that is to say towards the end opposite the stem.

The face having the recess may correspond to the rear face of the individual element.

“Rear face” of an individual element is understood to mean that face of the individual element that is directed towards the proximal end of the applicator member, that is to say towards the stem.

The hub of each individual element may have a peripheral part surrounding a central part, the central part preferably having the protruding relief on one of its faces. Preferably, the central part on one of its faces has the aforementioned protruding relief, and on the opposite face has the recess of corresponding shape.

The peripheral part may have a contour, in front view, with a circular overall shape.

The peripheral part may be planar, notably in the form of a flattened ring. In a variant, the peripheral part may have a contour, in front view, with a polygonal, for example hexagonal, overall shape.

The face of the hub having the protruding relief may have an annular surface at the peripheral part which has, in cross section, an inclination with a non-zero angle in relation to a plane perpendicular to a central axis of the element. Said face may be slightly conical around the central part.

The peripheral part may have a thickness, which is preferably constant, of between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 3 mm, for example around approximately 1.2 mm.

Protruding relief of the individual element

The protruding relief of the individual element may have one or more openings for the passage of the core, notably have just two openings, preferably with axes that are parallel to one another and to the central axis of the element, for example disposed symmetrically with respect to one another relative to the central axis of the element. Forming the openings in the protruding relief makes it possible, in the case of a twisted core, to limit the shear effects liable to be experienced by these openings when the core is being twisted, as explained above.

The protruding relief may take up at least 10% of the corresponding face, better still at least 20%, even better still at least 30%, for example around approximately 50%.

The protruding relief may have at least one outwardly convex portion, preferably rounded, notably having an envelope with a shape exhibiting symmetry of revolution around the axis of the element.

As a result, as viewed from the side, the relief can have a profile in the shape of a circular or elliptical arc, as is the case in longitudinal section.

Preferably, the contour in longitudinal section of the relief has a constant radius of curvature. This radius of curvature may be between 0.8 mm and 1.5 mm, for example around approximately 1.2 mm. In a variant, this radius of curvature is variable, notably is greater at the highest point of the corresponding face.

The outwardly convex rounded portion may have an outer surface in the form of a spherical, ellipsoidal or parabolic cap, preferably in the form of a spherical cap. The outwardly convex portion may thus have the overall shape of a dome. The highest point of the outwardly convex zone may be situated in a median plane of the hub.

The protruding relief may be solid. It is thus possible for the protruding relief to have no material discontinuity except for the openings which may be required for the passage of the core.

The protruding relief may also be discontinuous. The protruding relief may have at least two outwardly convex portions, notably each having a rounded shape, with a play between them.

The protruding relief may for example have a plurality of sectors, these sectors for example being able to be inscribed in an envelope surface which is in the shape of a dome, notably spherical, ellipsoidal or parabolic. Providing the sectors can give the individual element more deformability in a direction axial to the individual element, the sectors being able for example to deform by bending and moving closer together when the individual elements are axially clamped against one another.

When the relief has a plurality of sectors, they may each have the shape of a dome portion or else the shape of an orange segment.

The recess

The recess preferably has a complementary shape to that of the protruding relief.

The recess may have at least one outwardly concave rounded portion.

Preferably, the outwardly concave portion has a rounded shape. The outwardly concave portion may thus have a longitudinal section in the form of a portion of a circle or an ellipse.

The contour of the longitudinal section of the recess may have a radius of curvature which is constant or variable, notably which is greatest at the highest point of the corresponding face.

The highest point of the outwardly concave portion may be situated in a median plane of the hub.

The recess, notably the outwardly convex portion, may take up at least 10% of the corresponding face of the hub, better still at least 20%, even better still at least 30%, for example approximately 50% of the corresponding face of the hub.

Ball joint connection The outwardly convex portion of rounded shape of the individual element may have a complementary shape to that of the outwardly convex portion of rounded shape of the adjacent individual element. Preferably, the concave and convex rounded portions have a substantially identical radius of curvature.

Preferably, the convex rounded portion and the concave rounded portion of the two successive individual elements form a ball joint connection.

“Ball joint connection" between two successive individual elements is understood to mean that the sole degrees of kinematic freedom that are permitted between the two individual elements are rotations of one of the elements in relation to the other element along at least one axis of rotation, preferably along two orthogonal axes of rotation. In particular, the ball joint connection may enable rotation about two axes of rotation that are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the core. Before the core is mounted and/or before the core is twisted, the two elements of the ball joint connection may allow rotation about the longitudinal axis of the assembly.

The presence of such a ball joint connection between the successive individual elements gives a large number of options for shaping the applicator member, notably during manufacture, this making it possible to more easily benefit from an applicator member suitable for applying makeup that it is sought to obtain.

Preferably, the ball joint connection allows an angular displacement of between 0.5° and 5° about at least one of its axes of rotation, notably an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the core.

Application elements

Each individual element preferably has a plurality of application elements extending radially from the periphery of the hub.

The application elements are preferably distributed over substantially all of the perimeter of the hub, notably in a regular angular distribution.

The application elements may have a circular or polygonal cross section, among other options.

Preferably, the application elements are spikes. They have for example a cross section which becomes smaller in the direction towards their free end. This allows good separation of the eyelashes.

Each individual element may have between 4 and 24 application elements. Preferably, the hub and the application elements of an individual element are produced in one piece by moulding thermoplastic material, notably from the same material.

The applicator may have individual elements with different natures, for example made of different materials, notably with different hardnesses.

The applicator may have individual elements with different geometries, notably in terms of the shape and/or dimensions of their peripheral part and/or the shape and/or arrangement of their application elements.

Cosmetic composition

Advantageously, the cosmetic composition intended to be applied to the eyelashes and/or eyebrows is a mascara composition. A mascara composition conventionally has a viscosity greater than 5 Pa.s, notably between 5 Pa.s and 50 Pa.s, at 25°C, in particular measured with the aid of a Rheomat RM 100® machine.

Such a mascara composition conventionally comprises a solids content, generally in an amount greater than or equal to 35% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition, a pulverulent colourant, in particular one or more pigments, notably one or more metal oxides, for example one or more iron oxides, and advantageously a film-forming polymer. A mascara composition may also conventionally comprise one or more waxes, in a total amount of in particular between 5 and 40% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition.

Manufacturing method

A further subject of the first aspect of the invention is a method for manufacturing an applicator according to the invention, comprising the following steps: a) threading the individual elements onto a rectilinear core along its longitudinal axis, the core and each individual element, in particular the core and the hub of the individual element, being mechanically connected to prevent the individual element from freely pivoting on the core, b) optionally, twisting the core, c) curving the core about at least one axis of curvature, notably about an axis of curvature that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the core.

In step a), the mechanical connection with no possibility of relative rotation of the core and the individual element(s) before twisting can be obtained by means of a core produced in the form of an elongate element that is made of plastically deformable material and has a noncircular (for example polygonal, such as square, rectangular, triangular, etc., oval, multilobed, etc.) cross section in the non-twisted state, said core being threaded through an orifice of complementary cross section provided in the hub of each of the elements.

A further subject of the second aspect of the invention is a method for manufacturing an applicator according to the invention, comprising the following steps: a) threading the guard element and the individual elements onto a rectilinear core along its longitudinal axis, the core being mechanically connected to the guard element and each individual element to prevent said elements from freely pivoting on the core, b) optionally, twisting the core, c) optionally, curving the core about at least one axis of curvature, notably about an axis of curvature that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the core.

In step a), the mechanical connection with no possibility of relative rotation of the core and each element before twisting can be obtained by means of a core produced in the form of an elongate element that is made of plastically deformable material (for example a metal wire) and has a noncircular (for example polygonal, such as square, rectangular, triangular, etc., oval, multilobed, etc.) cross section in the non-twisted state, said core being threaded through an orifice of complementary cross section provided in the guard element and in the hub of each of the individual elements.

In a variant, the core comprises two arms made of plastically deformable material, for example metal strands, optionally joined together at one of their ends by being produced from a single wire folded into the form of a hairpin, and the mechanical connection with no possibility of relative rotation of the core and the element(s) threaded onto the latter before twisting is obtained by threading the arms of the core in the non-twisted state into two orifices, preferably with complementary shapes, provided in the hub of each of the elements.

The present invention is not limited to just the embodiments described above for ensuring the mechanical connection with no possibility of relative rotation between the core and the element, in particular between the core and the hub of the element, but rather extends to all technical equivalents known to those skilled in the art for producing such a connection.

Step b) may include subjecting the core to torsion so as to impart a plastic deformation on the core, such that the latter takes on its twisted shape in a stable and definitive manner once this torsional force stops being exerted on it.

In step c), the core may be curved about an axis of curvature. In a variant, in step c), the core may be bent such that the longitudinal axis of the core forms a non-zero angle with the axis of the stem. This angle may be between 1° and 30°, for example, and in particular close to 10°. Preferably, at the end of step c), the core has a bend formed at the join between the guard element and the applicator member.

In step c), the core may be curved about at least two axes of curvature. Step c) may thus include: i) curving the core about a first axis, ii) curving the core about a second axis.

Steps i) and ii) are able to be performed simultaneously or in succession.

The applicator may have a non-constant curvature over its length at the end of step i) and before step ii), and notably have a rectilinear portion and a curved portion or two rectilinear portions connected by a bend. Step ii) may thus consist in curving a rectilinear portion about the second axis of curvature.

The method according to the second aspect of the invention, may include selecting the guard element from multiple guard elements which differ from one another in terms of at least one from among their appearance, dimensions and material.

A further subject of the invention is a packaging and application device having:

- a container containing the composition to be applied,

- an applicator according to the invention.

A further subject of the invention is a method for the cosmetic treatment of the eyelashes and/or eyebrows, notably for applying makeup to them, comprising the step of applying a cosmetic composition to the eyelashes or the eyebrows with the aid of an applicator according to the invention.

According to the second aspect of the invention, the applicator for applying a cosmetic composition to the eyelashes or eyebrows, may have:

- an applicator member having a proximal end, which defines a rear face, and an opposite distal end,

- a guard element, which is disposed at the proximal end of the applicator member and has a front face provided with at least one first relief able to engage in a second relief of corresponding shape that is provided on the rear face of the applicator member. The guard element can be attached to the stem. It is preferably fixed relative to the stem. The guard element for example axially bears against the adjacent end of the stem and is kept in this position by the metal core of the applicator member, which passes through the guard element.

The first and second reliefs may be arranged so as to form a ball joint connection.

One of the first and second reliefs may be a protruding relief and the other relief is a recessed relief and, preferably, the first relief is a protruding relief and the second relief is a recessed relief.

The protruding relief may have at least one outwardly convex rounded portion and the recessed relief may have at least one outwardly concave rounded portion, the convex rounded portion being notably in the form of a cap, notably a substantially spherical cap, the concave and convex rounded portions preferably having a substantially identical radius of curvature.

The ball joint connection may allow an angular displacement (d) of between 0.5° and 30°.

The guard element may have a peripheral part surrounding a central part, the central part having the first relief.

The front face of the guard element may have an annular surface at the peripheral part, said annular surface in cross section having an inclination with a non-zero angle (c) in relation to a plane (K) perpendicular to a central axis (Y) of the guard element.

The protruding one of the first and second reliefs may have a plurality of sectors, notably at least two outwardly convex portions, preferably with a rounded shape.

The applicator member may have:

- a core ,and

- a plurality of individual elements attached to the core, each individual element having a hub fitted onto the core and at least one applicator member carried by the hub.

The hub of each individual element on one face may have at least one protruding relief which is able to engage in a recess of corresponding shape that is provided on the facing face of the hub of the adjacent individual element.

The applicator member may have application elements carried by the core and disposed in at least one longitudinal row. The guard element may be attached to a stem of the applicator, and preferably the guard element is fixed relative to the stem.

The guard element may have a radially outer surface bearing a pattern which is decorative, notably printed or etched, and/or has a particular appearance, for example reflective, notably golden or silvery.

The method for manufacturing an applicator according to the second aspect of the invention, may comprise the following steps: a) threading the guard element and the individual elements onto a rectilinear core along its longitudinal axis, the core being mechanically connected to the guard element and to the applicator member to prevent the guard element and the applicator member from freely pivoting on the core, b) optionally, twisting the core, c) optionally, curving the core about at least one axis of curvature, notably about an axis of curvature that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the core.

The method may include selecting the guard element from multiple guard elements which differ from one another in terms of at least one from among their appearance and material.

The packaging and application device may have :

- a container which contains the composition (F) to be applied, notably is provided with a wiping member,

- an applicator as defined above, according to the invention.

Brief description of the drawings

It will be possible to better understand the invention from reading the following detailed description of non-limiting exemplary embodiments thereof, and from examining the appended drawing, in which:

[Fig. 1] Figure 1 shows a schematic and partial view of an example of a packaging and application device according to the invention,

[Fig. 2] Figure 2 shows an example of an applicator made according to the first aspect of the invention, on its own,

[Fig. 3] Figure 3 shows the applicator member in Figure 2, on its own, [Fig. 4] Figure 4 shows an individual element used to make the applicator member in Figure 3, on its own,

[Fig. 5] Figure 5 shows a longitudinal section through the individual element in Figure 4,

[Fig. 6] is a longitudinal section through the applicator member in Figure 3,

[Fig. 7] is a detail of Figure 6,

[Fig. 8] is a view, similar to Figure 2, of a variant of the applicator,

[Fig. 9], [Fig. 10] and [Fig. 11] are views, similar to Figure 2, of a variant of the applicator,

[Fig. 12] illustrates an example of mounting the individual elements on the core, [Fig. 13] is a variant of a core on which the elements can be mounted and of an individual element, the core being shown before the elements have been mounted, and

[Fig. 14] shows a variant of an individual element,

[Fig. 15] Figure 15 shows an example of an applicator made according to the second aspect of the invention, on its own,

[Fig. 16] Figure 16 is an exploded view of the applicator in Figure 15 in the stem, [Fig. 17] Figure 17 shows a longitudinal section through the guard element of the applicator in Figure 15,

[Fig. 18] Figure 18 is a longitudinal section through the applicator in Figure 15, [Fig. 19] Figure 19 is a first detail of Figure 18,

[Fig. 20] is a view, similar to Figure 15, of a variant of the applicator,

[Fig. 21], [Fig. 22], [Fig. 23] are views, similar to Figure 15, of a variant of the applicator,

[Fig. 24] is a variant of a guard element,

[Fig. 25] is a variant of an applicator according to the second aspect of the invention.

Detailed description

The packaging and application device 1 shown schematically and partially in Figure 1 has a container 3 containing the composition F to be applied, and an applicator 2 for applying this composition. In the example in question, the container 3 has a threaded neck 4 and the applicator 2 has a gripping member 5, which also forms a closure cap for the container 3. The cap is designed to be fastened to the neck 4 so as to close the container 3 in a sealed manner when not in use.

The container 3 may also be produced differently.

The applicator 2 has a stem 7 of longitudinal axis Xt, which is attached at its upper end to the closure cap 5 and at its lower end to an applicator member 8 according to the invention or is attached via a guard element 20 according to the second aspect of the invention.

The container 3 also has a wiper 6, for example inserted in the neck 4.

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

The wiper 6 may be made of elastomer.

The wiper 6 may have 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.

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

The wiping member may also be adjustable, if appropriate.

In the example illustrated, the stem 7 has a circular cross 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 to the container 3 in some other way than by screwing. The wiper 6 is adapted to the shape of the stem 7 and to that of the applicator member 8.

In the example in question, the longitudinal axis Xt of the stem 7 is rectilinear and coincides with the longitudinal axis of the container 3 when the applicator 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 a bend. If need be, the stem 7 may have an annular narrowing in its portion that is positioned opposite the wiping lip 6, so as not to mechanically stress the latter unduly during storage.

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

The applicator member 8 or the guard element 20 according to the second aspect of the invention, may be fixed to the stem 7 by any means, and notably by force-fitting, snapfastening, adhesive bonding, welding, stapling or crimping, in a corresponding recess provided at the end of the stem 7.

The composition F which is applied may be constituted by any cosmetic product intended for applying makeup to or for caring for the eyelashes and/or eyebrows. Preferably, it is mascara. The composition F may notably include pigments, such as iron oxides, dispersed in an aqueous or anhydrous medium. The capacity of the container is preferably between 5 and 30 ml.

Figures 2 and 3 show an example of an applicator 2 with an applicator member 8 according to the invention. The applicator member 8 is made from individual elements 10, one of which has been shown on its own in Figures 4a to 4c. Figures 15 and 16 show an alternative embodiment, according to the second aspect of the invention where the applicator member 8 comprise a guard element 20.

As illustrated, the elements 10 are mounted on a core 9 which holds them in a stack. This core 9 is for example produced from a metal wire folded into the form of a hairpin, as in the example illustrated. To that end, the individual elements 10, and the guard element 20 in figures 15 and 16, have openings 11 for the arms 9a and 9b of the core to pass through. It would not constitute a departure from the scope of the present invention if the core were to be produced in another way, notably in the form of an elongate element which is made of plastically deformable material and has a noncircular cross section, and if each individual element 10 or if the guard element 20, were to be threaded on the core by virtue of a single orifice with a cross section selected so as not to rotate on the core, for example of complementary shape, as shown in Figure 13.

Each individual element 10 has, as can be seen in Figures 4a, 4b and 4c, a hub 12 having a protruding relief 40 on its front face 13 and a recess 50 on its rear face 15. The hub 12 has a peripheral part 14 surrounding a central part 16. As can be seen in Figure 6, the protruding relief 40 of an individual element engages in the recess 50 of the adjacent individual element. The arrangement of the protruding reliefs 40 and the corresponding recesses 50 makes it possible to create an annular play 80 between the facing faces 13 and 15 at the peripheral parts 14, this play having a maximum width j.

According to the second aspect of the invention, as illustrated in Figures 15 and 16, the guard element 20 and the individual elements 10 are mounted on a core 9 which holds them in a stack. This core 9 is for example produced from a metal wire folded into the form of a hairpin, as in the example illustrated. To that end, the individual elements 10 and the guard element 20 have openings 11 and 21, respectively, for the arms 9a and 9b of the core to pass through. It would not constitute a departure from the scope of the present invention if the core were to be produced in another way, notably in the form of an elongate element which is made of plastically deformable material and has a noncircular cross section, and if the guard element 20 and each individual element 10 were to be threaded on the core by virtue of a single orifice with a cross section selected so as not to rotate on the core, for example of complementary shape, as shown in Figure 13.

As illustrated in Figures 16 and 17, the guard element 20 has a peripheral part 24 surrounding a central part 26. The latter has a protruding relief 60 on its front face 23.

The front face 23 has, at the peripheral part 24, an annular surface 23a which has, in cross section, an inclination with an angle c in relation to a plane K perpendicular to the central axis Y of the guard element, as illustrated in Figure 17.

In other words, the front face 23 is slightly conical about the protruding relief 60.

The peripheral part 24 has a contour, in front view, with a circular overall shape. The peripheral part 24 may have, if appropriate, a diameter D of between 2 and 20 mm, preferably between 3 and 15 mm, for example of around approximately 10 mm.

In the example illustrated, the peripheral part 24 takes the form of a flattened ring in a plane perpendicular to a central axis Y of the guard element, which may be an axis of symmetry for the guard element 20. The peripheral part 24 has a thickness of between 1 and 5 mm, preferably between 1 and 3 mm, for example around approximately 1.8 mm.

The protruding relief 60 has an outwardly convex rounded portion. The protruding relief has the shape of a dome, as can be seen particularly in Figure 16. As illustrated, the dome may correspond substantially to a hemispherical cap, and in projection may take up approximately between 40% and 60% of the front face of the guard element 20.

The protruding relief 60 has a maximum thickness H, in relation to the edge of the hub 12, of between 0.5 and 3 mm, for example around 1 mm.

The openings 21 for the passage of the arms 9a, 9b of the core 9 are disposed in the central part 26 symmetrically relative to the axis Y of the guard element 20. The openings 21 pass through the protruding relief 60.

In the example in question, the protruding relief 60 is solid. In a variant, the protruding relief 60 has a plurality of sectors 65, as illustrated in Figure 24. The sectors 65 can be inscribed in an envelope surface in the form of a spherical dome.

As can be seen in Figures 15 and 19, the protruding relief 60 of the guard element 20 engages in a recessed relief 50a provided on the rear face 15 of the proximal individual element 10a of the applicator member 8. The arrangement of the protruding relief 60 and recessed relief 50a makes it possible to create an annular play 70 between the facing faces 15 and 23 at the peripheral parts 14 and 24, this play having a maximum width j.

In the embodiment illustrated, this annular play 70 results from the front face 23 having, at the peripheral part 24, an annular surface 23a which has, in cross section, an inclination with an angle c in relation to a plane K perpendicular to the central axis Y of the guard element 20, as illustrated.

In a variant, the front face 23 is planar and the play 70 results from the spacing between the guard element 20 and the individual element 10, owing to the fact that these elements are clamped to a lesser extent. In this case, the highest point of the protruding relief 60 does not come into contact with the bottom of the recessed relief 50a.

The presence of the play 70 allows an angular displacement of amplitude d which may be substantially equal to the angle c, since in the position of maximum displacement the surface 23a bears against the surface 15a of the front face 15 at the peripheral part 14, the two surfaces 23a and 15a preferably being substantially parallel at the line of contact.

As illustrated, the recessed relief 50a has a complementary shape to that of the protruding relief 60. In the example illustrated, it has an outwardly concave rounded portion in the form of a spherical cavity exhibiting symmetry of revolution about the axis X of the element 10. The concave rounded portion 50a and the convex rounded portion 60 have substantially equal radii of curvature r’ _c ; TB. This radius of curvature is for example between 0.8 mm and 1.5 mm, for example around approximately 1.2 mm.

As illustrated notably in Figures 18 and 19, the outwardly convex rounded portion 60 and the outwardly concave rounded portion 50a form a ball joint connection.

Preferably, the ball joint connection has an angular displacement of amplitude d which is between 0.5° and 30° about at least one axis of rotation perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the core (and to the plane of Figure 19).

As mentioned above, the applicator member has a plurality of individual elements 10, as illustrated notably in Figure 18. In the example illustrated, the individual elements 10 are identical.

As can be seen in Figures 18 and 7, the protruding relief 40 of an individual element 10 engages in the recess 50 of the adjacent individual element. The arrangement of the protruding reliefs 40 and the corresponding recesses 50 makes it possible to create an annular play 80 between the facing faces 13 and 15 at the peripheral parts 14, this play having a maximum width j.

The maximum width j is for example between 0.1 mm and 2 mm, preferably between 0.1 mm and 1 mm, and for example close to 0.2 mm. In the embodiment illustrated, this annular play 80 results from the front face 13 having, at the peripheral part 14, an annular surface 13a which has, in cross section, an inclination with an angle c in relation to a plane K perpendicular to the central axis Y of the element, as illustrated.

In other words, the front face 13 is slightly conical about the protruding relief 16. In a variant, the front face 13 is planar and the play 80 results from the spacing between the individual elements, owing to the fact that the individual elements 10 are clamped to a lesser extent. In this case, the highest point of the protruding relief 40 does not come into contact with the bottom of the recess 50.

The play 80 enables the formation of reserves of composition F at a certain radial distance from the core, specifically, in the example illustrated, from the join 38 between the relief 40 and the peripheral part 14.

The presence of the play 80 allows an angular displacement of amplitude d or d’ which may be substantially equal to the angle c, since in the position of maximum displacement the surface 13a bears against the surface 15a of the front face 15 at the peripheral part 14, the two surfaces 13a and 15a preferably being substantially parallel at the line of contact.

It is also possible to see that the protruding reliefs 40 form an obstacle preventing the composition from being trapped in the gap regions close to the core.

The peripheral part 14 has a contour, in front view, with a circular overall shape. The peripheral part may have, if appropriate, a diameter D of between 2 and 10 mm, preferably between 3 and 6 mm, for example of around approximately 4.5 mm.

In the example illustrated, the peripheral part 14 takes the form of a flattened ring in a plane perpendicular to a central axis Y of the individual element, which may be an axis of symmetry for the hub 12. The peripheral part 14 has a thickness of between 0.5 and 5 mm, preferably between 1 and 3 mm, for example around approximately 1.2 mm.

The central part 16 has the protruding relief 40 on its front face and the recess 50 on its rear face.

The protruding relief 40 has an outwardly convex rounded portion. According to the second aspect of the invention, the protruding relief 40 has a shape similar to the protruding relief 60 of the guard element 20, according to the second aspect of the invention. The protruding relief has the shape of a dome, as can be seen particularly in Figure 4. As illustrated, the dome may correspond substantially to a hemispherical cap, and in projection may take up approximately between 40% and 60% of the front face of the hub 12.

The protruding relief 40 has a maximum thickness H, in relation to the edge of the hub 12, of between 0.5 and 3 mm, for example around 1 mm.

The openings 11 for the passage of the arms 9a, 9b of the core 9 are disposed in the central part 16 symmetrically relative to the axis Y of the element 10. The holes 11 pass through the protruding relief 40.

The recess 50 has a complementary shape to that of the protruding relief 40. In the example illustrated, it has an outwardly concave rounded portion in the form of a spherical cavity exhibiting symmetry of revolution about the axis X of the element 10.

The convex rounded portion 40 and the concave rounded portion 50 have substantially equal radii of curvature r _c ; n>. This radius of curvature is for example between 0.8 mm and 1.5 mm, for example around approximately 1.2 mm.

As illustrated in Figure 7, the outwardly concave and convex rounded portions of two successive application elements form a ball joint connection. Preferably, the ball joint connection has an angular displacement d which is between 0.5° and 5° about at least one axis of rotation perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the core (and to the plane of Figure 7).

In the example in question, the protruding relief 40 is solid. In a variant, the protruding relief 40 has a plurality of sectors 45, as illustrated in Figure 14. The sectors 45 can be inscribed in an envelope surface in the form of a spherical dome.

Each individual element 10 has application elements 30 carried by the hub 12. They engage with the eyelashes or eyebrows when the applicator 3 is being used. In this example, the application elements 30 take one and the same form, that of a spike.

The surface of the hub 12, to which the elements are attached, is in the form of a cylinder of revolution about the axis Y.

In the example illustrated, the longitudinal axis X is rectilinear and coincides with the axis X _t of the stem 7.

The longitudinal axis X of the core may be curved, as in the example illustrated in Figures 8, 9 and 11.

In the example in Figure 8, the longitudinal axis X of the core 9 is curved about an axis of curvature Cl.

In the example described, this axis Cl is in a median plane of the core 9.

The longitudinal axis X has a radius of curvature rl of, for example, between 100 mm and 200 mm, preferably between 150 mm and 170 mm. In the example illustrated, the radius of curvature rl is constant but it would not constitute a departure from the scope of the invention if the radius of curvature rl of the core 9 varies along the latter.

As can be seen in Figures 8 and 11, the distal end 9c of the core 9 is off-centre with respect to the axis X of the stem 7.

The distal end 9c of the core 9 may be off-centre by a distance I of between 1 mm and 5 mm from the axis Xt of the stem.

The consequence of the shape of the applicator member 8 is that it will be wiped nonuniformly.

More specifically, the off-centre region 9f furthest away from the axis Xt will be wiped to a relatively great extent whereas the diametrically opposite region 9d will be wiped to a lesser extent since it is very close to the axis Xt.

The user thus has on the same applicator both a significant reserve of product, which is useful to locally apply the product to the eyelashes, and a well-wiped part for combing and separating the eyelashes.

It will also be noted that, when the product is applied to the eyelashes by making the applicator member rotate about the axis Xt of the stem 7, the application elements of the off-centre region 9f oscillate transversely to the axis Xt, this being able to make it easier for them to pass between the eyelashes and improve engagement with the latter.

In the example illustrated in Figure 9, the longitudinal axis X of the core 9 is curved about two axes of curvature C’ 1 and C2. As illustrated, the core 9 is curved in an S shape about these two axes, which are parallel. In the example in question, the core 9 has two curves with different orientations fl and f2. The two curves have substantially the same radius of curvature but it would not constitute a departure from the scope of the invention if the radii of curvature were to be different.

Owing to the curvature of the core, the applicator member according to the invention, when observed in a direction perpendicular to the axis Xt of the stem 7, has a profile which varies such that the applicator member has regions able to perform different actions on the eyelashes.

In the example illustrated, the longitudinal axis of the core is in one plane but it would not constitute a departure from the scope of the invention if the axis of the core were to have two portions which are not in one and the same plane.

To produce the applicators described above, firstly the elements are threaded on the rectilinear core 9, as illustrated in Figure 12. Elements that cannot rotate are obtained, as can be seen in Figure 3. An applicator as illustrated in Figure 2 is thus obtained.

To obtain the applicator of Figure 8, the core 9 of the applicator member in Figure 3 is subjected to torsion about the axis Cl, which in this case is oriented perpendicularly to the plane of the figure.

To obtain the applicator in Figure 9, the rectilinear core 9 is subjected to torsion about the two axes C’ i and C2.

The invention is not limited to an applicator having a non-twisted core.

Figures 10 and 11 show applicator members in accordance with examples of implementation of the invention, the core 9 of which is twisted.

Figure 10 illustrates an example of an applicator member 8 having a rectilinear twisted core. Compared to Figure 2, it can be seen that the twisting gives the applicator member a helical spread of the applicator members along the longitudinal axis of the core 9.

The applicator member illustrated in Figure 11 is similar to that of Figure 8 with a twisted core.

To produce the applicators described in Figures 10 and 11, before the application of the torsion about the aforementioned axes, the core 9 is twisted. The invention is not limited to an applicator member 8 having a plurality of individual elements. Figure 25 illustrates an example of a moulded applicator member.

Needless to say, the invention is not limited to the examples that have just been described.

For example, the number of application elements may be different.

For example, it is also possible to stack on the core individual elements 10 which are not identical, being made for example of different materials, notably with different hardnesses, and/or having different shapes.

The geometries of the individual elements may be different, notably in terms of the shape and/or dimensions of their peripheral part and/or the shape and/or arrangement of their application elements.

It is possible to give to the core different curvatures to those described above.

Protruding reliefs may also be provided on the rear face of the individual elements and the recesses on the front face thereof.

The protruding reliefs may have an outer surface in the form of a spherical cap less a half-sphere for example between R and R/2 high, R being the radius of the sphere. According to the second aspect of the invention, it is also possible to provide the recessed relief on the guard element and the protruding relief on the applicator member.