The present invention relates to applicators intended for applying a product to the eyelashes and/or eyebrows, in particular a cosmetic, make-up or care product, for example mascara.

The invention also relates to a make-up method.

Prior art

In order to apply more or less heavy make-up, it is known to use devices that have a container provided with a wiping member that can be adjusted by the user. While such devices function satisfactorily, the presence of a wiping member complicates manufacture and increases costs.

Applicator members that have different densities of teeth on two opposite sides of the core have also been proposed. This makes it fairly easily possible to produce two different make-up results but makes it harder to produce intermediate make-up results.

Moreover, when the applicator member is used after being withdrawn from the container, the user often only uses a small quantity of the product present on the applicator member before dipping it into the container again. If too much product is applied, it becomes difficult to separate the eyelashes.

Application EP 1 632 149 describes a moulded applicator member comprising teeth disposed in single rows, at least two single rows of teeth having different spacings. The teeth extend tangentially with respect to the surface of the core or in line with the face adjacent to the face to which they are attached.

International application WO 2009/053925 discloses an applicator comprising a moulded applicator member comprising rows of small teeth and rows of large teeth that are disposed in alternation around the longitudinal axis of the applicator.

Application EP 2 198 743 discloses an applicator comprising two different application faces and indicating means on the gripping member, the applicator member having a predefined angular position in relation to the indicating means, such that the position of the applicator given by the indicating means corresponds to the use of a predefined application face.

There is a need to benefit from a means for applying more or less heavy make- up, while having separated eyelashes, in a progressive manner that can be reproduced from one time to another, in particular an applicator for easily applying such make-up.

Method

The subject of the present invention, according to one of its aspects, is a method for making up the eyelashes or eyebrows by means of an applicator comprising a gripping member and an applicator member, preferably a moulded applicator member, in which method, during use, the applicator member is rotated on itself at least once, better still at least twice, even better still at least three times, around the longitudinal axis of the core with respect to the row of eyelashes, between two successive applications of product, without the applicator member being reloaded with product.

The method may be implemented by means of an applicator member comprising:

- a core that has a longitudinal axis, and

- teeth that extend from the core, the teeth being arranged in rows that extend along the longitudinal axis of the core, for example at least five rows, and the rows being distributed all the way around the core, the rows comprising first rows and second rows, the first rows differing from the second rows by at least one of the spacing of the teeth in the row, the number of teeth in the row, the implantation of the teeth in the row, the thickness of the teeth, the shape of the teeth, the shape of the cross section of the teeth.

The first rows and the second rows may differ in that the teeth of the first row are spaced apart from one another by a first spacing e/ and the teeth of the second rows are spaced apart from one another by a second spacing the second spacing e? being different from the first spacing e _/ , at least one first row, or even a plurality of first rows, alternating with at least one second row, or even a plurality of second rows, around the longitudinal axis of the core.

The method may also be implemented by means of an applicator for applying a product to the eyelashes and/or eyebrows, comprising an applicator member, in particular a non-moulded applicator member, for example a twisted brush, comprising:

a core that has a longitudinal axis, in particular a core formed by a twisted metallic wire folded into a U shape, and

bristles that extend from the core, comprising first bristles and second bristles that are different from one another, said bristles differing from one another for example by way of their length and/or the shape of their free ends and/or their diameter.

During successive applications, the applicator member may apply make-up and then separate.

The user can effect enough rotations of the applicator member for it to complete one full revolution without the applicator member having to be reloaded with product. The user can also, after one full revolution, reload the applicator member with product and then start applying the make-up again according to the above method.

The applicator member may be rotated with respect to the longitudinal axis of the core by the gripping member being rotated about its axis. The rotation of the appli cator may be total or partial; it is total when all of the applicator rotates at the same time.

The applicator member may be rotated on itself without the fingers being taken off the gripping member, or by one finger being taken off and another finger being kepi in contact with the gripping member, or else by all of the fingers being taken off the gripping member.

The rotation is preferably effected manually. It is thus possible for the applicator not to be motorized.

The applicator member may be free to rotate with respect to a support fixed to the gripping member. In this case, the rotation of the applicator member with respect to the axis may result from the resistance exerted on the applicator member by the eyelashes during application. When the user brings the applicator member back into contact with the eyelashes for a second application, that region of the applicator member that comes into contact with the eyelashes is no longer the same as during the first application.

Alternatively, the applicator member may be rotated with respect to the longitudinal axis of the core by a rotary part of the gripping member being rotated with respect to a fixed part of the gripping member.

The method may advantageously be implemented with an applicator as defined below.

Applicator

Another subject of the present invention, according to one of its aspects, is an applicator for applying a product to the eyelashes and/or eyebrows, comprising a moulded applicator member, comprising:

- a core that has a longitudinal axis, and - teeth that extend from the core, the teeth being arranged in at least five rows that extend along the longitudinal axis of the core and the rows being distributed all the way around the core,

the at least five rows comprising first rows and second rows, the first rows differing from the second rows by at least one of the spacing of the teeth in the row, the number of teeth in the row, the implantation of the teeth in the row, the thickness of the teeth, the shape of the teeth, the shape of the cross section of the teeth,

a plurality of first rows alternating with at least one second row around the longitudinal axis of the core,

the average length of the teeth in a row being approximately constant from one row to another.

The applicator according to the invention makes it possible to make up the eyelashes and/or eyebrows by alternating very easily the application and separation phases depending on the rows used. The make-up result obtained is surprisingly natural and lengthening. The user can rotate the applicator member slightly while applying the makeup, in order to do this by successive touches and to obtain suitably heavy and well- separated make-up. The user does not need to identify the position of his/her fingers on the gripping member; it is sufficient to rotate the latter a little on itself in order for a new region of the applicator member to come into operation, in order to apply make-up to the eyelashes or to separate them.

The invention makes it possible to apply successive layers of product without these having the time to dry, unlike when the applicator member is reloaded in a container between the application of two layers. Thus, the product is applied by small successive applications, thereby making it possible to reload the eyelashes progressively without sticking them together. Make-up may be applied to the eyelashes by more product being loaded to the eyelashes before the product of the preceding layer has dried, thereby making it possible to separate the eyelashes well and to avoid them sticking together. A make-up result which may be produced gradually and may be changed as desired is thus obtained.

The make-up result obtained makes it possible advantageously to separate the eyelashes particularly well.

A further subject of the invention, according to another of its aspects, is an applicator for applying a product to the eyelashes and/or eyebrows, comprising a moulded applicator member, comprising:

- a core that has a longitudinal axis, and

- teeth that extend from the core, the teeth being arranged in at least five rows that extend along the longitudinal axis of the core and the rows being distributed all the way around the core,

the at least five rows comprising first rows and second rows, the teeth of the first rows being spaced apart from one another by a first spacing e\ and the teeth of the second rows being spaced apart from one another by a second spacing the second spacing e? being greater than or equal to 1.5 times the first spacing ej,

a plurality of first rows alternating with at least one second row around the longitudinal axis of the core.

A further subject of the invention, according to another of its aspects, is an applicator for applying a product to the eyelashes and/or eyebrows, comprising a moulded applicator member, comprising:

- a core that has a longitudinal axis, and

- teeth that extend from the core, the teeth being arranged in at least five rows that extend along the longitudinal axis of the core and the rows being distributed all the way around the core,

the at least five rows comprising first rows and second rows, the teeth of the first rows being spaced apart from one another by a first spacing e; and the teeth of the second rows being spaced apart from one another by a second spacing (¾ the second spacing e being greater than or equal to 1.5 times the first spacing ej,

at least one first row alternating with at least one second row around the longitudinal axis of the core,

the rows not extending in line with one side of the core or tangentially to the core.

A further subject of the invention, according to another of its aspects, is an applicator for applying a product to the eyelashes and/or eyebrows, comprising a moulded applicator member, comprising:

- a core that has a longitudinal axis, and

- teeth that extend from the core, the teeth being arranged in at least five rows that extend along the longitudinal axis of the core and the rows being distributed all the way around the core,

the at least five rows comprising first rows and second rows, the first rows differing from the second rows by at least one of the spacing of the teeth in the row, the number of teeth in the row, the implantation of the teeth in the row, the thickness of the teeth, the shape of the teeth, the shape of the cross section of the teeth,

a plurality of first rows alternating with at least one second row around the longitudinal axis of the core,

the applicator member being connected by a stem to a gripping member, the gripping member having means for indicating the position of the applicator member with respect to the user.

The teeth of the first rows may be spaced apart from one another by a first spacing ej and the teeth of the second rows may be spaced apart from one another by a second spacing e2, the second spacing i¾ being different from the first spacing e _} .

The rows in which the teeth are more spaced apart are able particularly to help in the application of product to the eyelashes.

The rows in which the teeth are closer together are able particularly to help in the separation of the eyelashes from one another.

The expression "longitudinal axis of the core" refers to the line connecting all of the centres of mass of the cross sections of the core. The longitudinal axis may be a central axis, or even an axis of symmetry for the core, in particular when the core has a cross section which is circular or 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 all of the cross sections of the core.

The term "tooth" refers to an individualizable projecting element intended to come into engagement with the eyelashes, this terra being synonymous with "bristle" in the scope of the present invention.

The "spacing" of the teeth in a row refers to the distance between the elongation axes of two consecutive teeth in a row along the longitudinal axis of the core. In the case of straight and parallel teeth, the spacing is measured between the peaks.

The expression "row of teeth" refers to a set of teeth arranged along an axis of the row. The set of teeth forming the row may run from one end of the applicator member to the other, from one end to the other of a portion of the core that carries all the teeth of the applicator member, or else in a more restricted manner over only a portion of a length of the core that is measured along the longitudinal axis thereof, for example between 1/4 and 3/4 of the length of the core.

The "row" may comprise at least five teeth, better still at least eight teeth, even better still at least ten teeth, and more preferably at least 15 teeth, arranged along the axis of the row.

The expression "single row" refers to a row of teeth in which the teeth are aligned along an axis of the row, which may be parallel or approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis of the core.

The expression "multiple row" refers to a row of teeth which is composed of teeth that are circumferentially offset with respect to one another along the longitudinal axis of the core, and in succession along the longitudinal axis of the core. The multiple row may be considered to be one row or a plurality of single rows arranged side by side. The multiple row may be a double row, a triple row or a quadruple row, for example.

The expression "double row" refers to a row of teeth which is composed of teeth that are arranged on either side of a geometric separation surface, the teeth being in succession along an axis of the row that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the core. It is possible to regard the teeth of the double row as forming two rows of single teeth, each of the rows of single teeth extending along a longitudinal axis of the single row and extending in each case on one side of the geometric separation surface of the double row.

The expression "row not extending in line with one side" should be understood as meaning that the teeth of the row do not all extend in a parallel manner and in a manner continuing said side, when the core has a polygon cross section.

The expression "row not extending tangentially to the core" should be understood as meaning that the teeth of this row do not all extend tangentially to the core when the latter does not have a polygonal shape.

The expression "row of teeth in a V shape" is understood as meaning two single rows of teeth that are parallel to one another, the teeth in one row having the same axial position as the teeth of the other row along the longitudinal axis of the support and forming a notch between one another.

The expression "implantation of the teeth in the row" is understood as meaning the arrangement on the core of the teeth in the row, with respect to the longitudinal axis of the core, that is to say the spacing between the teeth, the axial position of the teeth in the row, the circumferential position of the teeth in the row. Examples of implantation are, for example, implantation in a single row, in a multiple row, in a V shape, in staggered rows.

According to the examples, the core may carry an even or odd number of rows, for example at least five, at least six, at least seven, at least eight, at least nine or at least ten rows of teeth, or even eleven or twelve. Preferably, the applicator may have an even number of rows.

The applicator may have at least five alternations between the first and second rows, or even at least six, or seven, or eight, or nine, or ten, or eleven, or twelve alternations.

The term "alternation" is understood as meaning the passage from one or more first row(s) to one or more second row(s) or vice versa.

The term "alternating" is understood as meaning at least one passage, around the longitudinal axis of the core, from a first to a second row, and then at least one passage from a second to a first row, and finally again at least one passage from a first to a second row.

Such alternation may be regular, the applicator comprising a repetition of one and the same pattern formed by (a) first and (a) second rows around the longitudinal axis of the core.

The applicator according to the invention may in particular be provided with more than two consecutive first rows, for example three consecutive first rows, or with more than two consecutive second rows, for example three consecutive second rows, around the longitudinal axis of the core.

The expression "average length of the teeth in a row" is understood to mean the average of the lengths of the teeth in a row, measured from their base to their free end, along an elongation of the tooth.

The expression "length of a tooth" refers to the distance measured along the elongation axis of the tooth between the free end of the tooth and its base, by which it is connected to the core.

The expression "elongation axis of the tooth" refers to an axis which passes through the centres of mass of the cross sections of the tooth. In one row, two teeth may have identical or different lengths. A row of teeth extending along the longitudinal axis may have at least three teeth of the same length.

The applicator member according to the invention may have teeth, the free ends of which are at the same distance from the centre of symmetry of the cross section of the core or, failing that, from its centre of mass, over at least a portion of the core having a length greater than or equal to 50%, 75% or 100% of the length of the part of the core carrying the teeth.

The angular spacing between two consecutive rows, measured from the base of the teeth where they are attached to the core, is between 15° and 60°, or even between 15° and 50°, better between 20° and 45°. The applicator according to the invention thus has no regions around the core which have no teeth over too large an angular space, in particular greater than 60°, greater than 50°, even greater than 45°.

The angular spacing between two consecutive tows may be smaller than 50°, better smaller than 45°, preferably smaller than 40°, preferably smaller than 35°.

Application elements may be homogeneously distributed around the cote. There may be no portion of the core that is visible as a naked part.

Make-up areas, that is to say the teeth, are attached and extend around the core in order to realize a homogeneous distribution.

Within the meaning of the present invention, the expression "angular spacing defined by two rows" refers to the minimum angle around the longitudinal axis between the longitudinal axes of the two rows in question, that is to say between the centres of the bases of the teeth of the two rows in question when the teeth in each row are aligned along a straight line.

Since the longitudinal axis of a row is considered to be at the surface of the core, two longitudinal axes of two consecutive rows around the longitudinal axis of the core may be separated angularly by an angle of less than 60°, or even less than 50°, for example around 45°, for example around 30°, or even less. The axes of the rows may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the core.

When the core is viewed along its longitudinal axis, the passage from one row to another may be effected by a rotation through an integer sub-multiple of 360° around the longitudinal axis of the core, for example a rotation of 360°/n, where n is an integer between 5 and 20, for example.

in a first row, the teeth do not all have to be identical to one another. In a second row, the teeth do not all have to be identical to one another.

The applicator member may be connected by a stem to the gripping member, the gripping member advantageously comprising means for indicating the position of the applicator member with respect to the user, in particular enabling the user to identify any rotation of the applicator with respect to the user and thus to memorize the angular path effected. The indicating means may thus allow the user to memorize the rotation of the applicator member with respect to its longitudinal axis, this having been necessary in order to obtain a satisfactory make-up result for the user. Such an indicator may thus make it possible to subsequently reproduce a rotation of the same range, in order for example to obtain a similar or identical make-up result.

The indicating means may comprise angular markers, it being possible for the number of angular markers to correspond for example to the number of alternations between the first and second rows, or to the number of first rows, or to the number of second rows, for example, or else to be a sub-multiple of the number of first rows and/or of the number of second rows, for example.

The indicating means may comprise a graduation spaced out around a longitudinal axis of the applicator. The graduation may for example be quantified, for example by means of alphanumeric characters such as numbers or letters, or by means of colours, for example arranged in shades, or else for example by means of symbols. The graduation may for example allow the user to identify the angle of the rotation which the applicator has undergone with respect to the user.

The spacing out may extend over 180°. The applicator may have two graduations, which are each spaced out over 180° and which may be mutually symmetrical with respect to a plane of symmetry containing the longitudinal axis of the applicator, In this case, the direction of rotation chosen during use may be of some importance and influence the make-up result achieved.

Alternatively, it is possible for the indicating means not to be indexed with respect to the applicator member, and in particular to the teeth thereof, or to the first and second rows. In other words, it is possible for the applicator member in particular not to have a predefined angular position in relation to the indicating means.

As a further variant or in addition, the indicating means may comprise a plurality of reliefs on the gripping member. These reliefs may help the user to slightly modify the orientation of the applicator member with respect to the eyelashes. The number of reliefs disposed circumferentially around the gripping member, around the longitudinal axis of the applicator may for example correspond to the number of alternations between the first rows and the second rows, or be a sub-multiple of the number of first rows and/or of the number of second rows, for example.

Envelope surface

The free ends of the teeth of the applicator member define an envelope surface of the applicator member.

The envelope surface may have a rotationally symmetrical shape overall, for example the overall shape of a cylinder of revolution.

Where appropriate, the envelope surface may extend along a longitudinal axis that forms a non-zero angle with the longitudinal axis of the core.

The largest transverse dimension of the envelope surface of the applicator member, measured perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the core, may be between 3 and 14 mm.

The largest transverse dimension of the envelope surface may be approximately constant over at least a part of the length of the applicator member, in particular over more than half of the length of that part of the core that carries the teeth.

The envelope surface may also have a cross section that varies over all or part of the length of the applicator member. This cross section may for example have one or more extremes and for example at least one local minimum and two maxima. The envelope surface may for example have a peanut shape when the applicator member is viewed from the side, in a direction perpendicular to its longitudinal axis.

Core, stem and end piece

The core may have a cross section of constant or non-constant shape along the longitudinal axis of the core, over for example at least half, or even three quarters or all of the length of that portion of the core that carries the teeth. The section may for example vary homothetica!ly. From the proximal end towards the distal end of the applicator member, the cross section of the core may for example increase or decrease in size in a monotonous manner. From the proximal end towards the distal end of the applicator member, the cross section of the core may have one extreme, for example one minimum or one absolute maximum. The core may have a non-circular cross section over the greater part of its length. The core may have a shape which is or is not rotational ly symmetrical overall. It is possible for it not to have the shape of a cylinder of revolution and not to have reliefs other than the teeth. Over at least a portion of its length, the core may have a cross section having a shape selected from the following list: circular or non-circular, semicircular, elliptical, elongate, semi-elliptical, polygonal, square, hexagonal, octagonal, semi- polygonal. This shape may vary along the longitudinal axis of the core.

The core may have a variable profile, when viewed perpendicularly to its longitudinal axis. The core may in particular have a transverse dimension that reaches an extreme approximately in the middle of its length. This may give the core increased rigidity or flexibility and makes it possible to define an envelope surface having a variable section along the applicator member, in particular when the length of the teeth is constant within a row, at least over a portion of the applicator member.

The core may have at least one twisted longitudinal face. The applicator member may have a helical distribution of the teeth on the core, said helical distribution being oriented towards the right or towards the left towards the distal end of the applicator member.

in at least one cross-sectional plane, the core may have an axis of symmetry which is for example its longitudinal axis.

The core may have a recess in which there is inserted a support portion which consists for example of the stem and is metallic or made of plastic material. The core may be configured to be fixed to this support portion or to be free to rotate or free to move in translation with respect to this support portion.

The core may be connected to a rotary part of the gripping member, which is able to move with respect to a fixed part of the gripping member. In this way, the user can modify at will the orientation of the gripping member with respect to the row of eyelashes by rotating the rotary part with respect to the fixed part of the gripping member.

Alternatively, the portion of the core which supports the teeth is solid. The core may comprise only an end piece or housing at one of its ends in order to fix it to a stem connected to the gripping member.

The core and the teeth may be moulded from a single material, or alternatively be produced from at least two different materials. A part of the core and of the teeth may for example be produced from a first material and another part of the core and of the teeth may be produced from a second material which is for example more flexible or harder than the first material.

The core is for example formed from one or more thermoplastics, which may be elastomeric.

In the exemplary embodiments of the invention, the teeth are produced by moulding or overmoulding with the core. The teeth may, for example, be produced by protrusion, in which a material is injected through at least a part of the core so as to form the teeth.

The applicator member may be fixed to a stem that is attached to a gripping member of the applicator, for example by snap-fastening, adhesive bonding, welding, crimping, stamping, force- fitting, cold or hot, for example by mounting it in a housing in the stem. Alternatively, the stem may be held in a housing provided in the core.

The stem and the applicator member may also be moulded or not be moulded in one piece, from the same thermoplastic.

The core may extend along a longitudinal axis that makes an angle, at at least one point along its length, with the longitudinal axis of the stem to which the core is fixed. The applicator member may have an elbow at the point where it is attached to the stem.

The stem may comprise a first, rigid portion, which is extended on the distal side by a second, more flexible portion, which is made for example of elastomer and carries the applicator member.

The applicator member may comprise a mounting end piece which is moulded in one piece with the core and may have, where appropriate, one or more narrowed portions which improve the flexibility of the applicator and the smoothness of application.

Brushes

A further subject of the invention, according to another of its aspects, independently or in combination with the above, an applicator for applying a product to the eyelashes and/or eyebrows, comprising an applicator member, in particular a non-moulded applicator member, for example a twisted brush, comprising;

- a core that has a longitudinal axis, in particular a core formed by a twisted metallic wire folded into a U shape, and

bristles that extend from the core, comprising first bristles and second bristles that are different from one another, said bristles differing from one another for example by way of their length and/or the shape of their free ends and/or their diameter.

The first and second bristles may differ by way of their length. The applicator member may in this case have a multilobe shape. There may be a succession of ridges along the surface of the applicator member around the longitudinal axis of the core.

Alternatively, the first and second bristles may differ by way of the shape of their free ends.

The first bristles may for example have an overall cylindrical shape, having a non-deformed free end, which may have been subjected to no treatment.

The second bristles may comprise a deformed free end which has been subjected to a treatment, for example comprising balls obtained by heating the applicator member at the end of the bristles so as to melt the end thereof The balls may for example allow a larger quantity of product to be applied. Alternatively, the treatment may form forks or hooks at the ends of the bristles, it being possible to obtain said forks or hooks by a mechanical treatment, for example grinding of the applicator member.

Of course, the first and second bristles may differ by way of more than one of the abovementioned characteristics. The first bristles may for example be longer than the second bristles, the second bristles being shorter and comprising a deformed end, for example a ball.

The longer bristles may make it possible to bring about the abovementioned separation characteristics, while the deformed bristles may make it possible to bring about the abovementioned application characteristics.

In a cross section of the brush around the longitudinal axis of the core there are a succession of first bristles and then second bristles, a succession of first bristles followed by second bristles repeating at least three times around the longitudinal axis of the brush.

The free ends of the first bristles may be distributed over an angular extent, measured at the end of the bristles around the longitudinal axis of the core, of between 15 and 60°, or even between 15 and 50°, better between 20 and 45°.

The free ends of the second bristles may be distributed over an angular extent, measured at the end of the bristles around the longitudinal axis of the core, of between 15 and 60°, or even between 15 and 50°, better between 20 and 45°.

The applicator according to the invention has no region around the core which has no bristles over too large an angular space, in particular greater than 60°, better greater than 50°, and even better greater than 45°.

The angular extents over which the first bristles and the second bristles extend, in other words the angular extents of the lobes or ridges, may be the same or, on the contrary, different. The applicator member may for example comprise only first bristles over a first angular extent and only second bristles over a second angular extent. The first and second angular extents may be arranged in alternation within a cross section of the applicator member around the longitudinal axis of the core. The values of the angular extents may, for example, be the same or, alternatively, different. They may for example vary progressively around the longitudinal axis of the core within a cross section.

Packaging device

A further subject of the invention is a device for packaging and applying a cosmetic or care product, for example a mascara, to keratin fibres, in particular the eyelashes or eyebrows, comprising an applicator as defined above, a container and a wiping member, which is preferably configured to enable uniform wiping of the applicator member as it leaves the container. The gripping member of the applicator may constitute a closure cap for the container. The wiping member may be suitable for wiping the stem and the applicator member.

The invention makes it possible to best use the product contained in the container, inasmuch as more product that is present on the applicator member may be used each time the applicator is removed from the container. Solvent losses are reduced, and thus the quantity of product and/or solvent can be reduced for the same overall useful life.

The product may be a mascara, for example a water-resistant mascara or else a mascara that is resistant to rubbing.

The applicator member may be configured to create a piston effect in the container, that is to say that a maximum cross section of the envelope surface of the applicator member may take up at least 70% of the inner section of the container at least along a portion of the path covered by the applicator member as it is withdrawn from the container, the height of this portion being at least equal to twice the length of the applicator member, being for example between two and ten times the length of the applicator member, as is described in the international application WO 2009/153753, whose contents are incorporated by reference. The device may be configured such that the applicator member is at a distance of less than 1.5 mm, better less than 0.5 mm, from the inner surface of the container when the applicator is in place on the container in a storage position.

Teeth and rows of teeth

The largest teeth of the applicator member may have a length of between 1 and

6 mm, for example between 1.7 and 4.5 mm. More than half of the teeth may have a length as defined above, better at least 60%, or even at least 70%, or even all of the teeth.

The length of the teeth in at least one row may vary, for example in a monotonous manner, within a row along the longitudinal axis of the core. For example, along the longitudinal axis of the core, the length of the teeth within at least one row may increase between the proximal end and a first abscissa and then remain approximately constant between this first abscissa and a second abscissa before decreasing between this second abscissa and the distal end. For example, the length of the teeth within at least one row may have two maxima.

Two teeth in two different rows that have the same abscissa measured on the longitudinal axis of the core may have approximately the same length, and better still all of the teeth that have the same abscissa have the same length.

Some teeth, or even all of the teeth, may have a semi-circular, or semi- elliptical, cross section. A shape with a flat part, such as a semi-circular or semi-elliptical shape, may make it easier to remove the applicator member from the mould, the flat part being coincident with the joint face.

At least one tooth may have a circular cross section, with or without a flat part, or a non-circular, flattened, or star-shaped cross section, for example in the shape of a cross or having a number of arms, in the shape of a U, H, T or V, a hollowed-out shape, for example a circular or square shape, forming branches, for example in the shape of a flake, a prismatic shape, for example a triangular, square or hexagonal shape, an elongate shape, in particular a lenticular shape, or an hourglass shape, a polygonal shape which is or is not regular, in particular a square, rectangular, octagonal, parallelogram, lozenge or oval shape. At least one tooth may have at least one relief in order to improve the adhesion of the product to the tooth. The cross section of the tooth may decrease homothetically the further it becomes from the core, over for example more than half the l ength of the tooth.

Some teeth of the applicator, or even all of the teeth, may have a thickness measured at their base, that is to say at the point where the teeth are attached to the core, of between 0.2 and 0.8 mm, or even between 0.3 and 0.5 mm. The expression "thickness of a tooth" refers to the largest transverse dimension of the tooth, in section perpendicularly to the elongation axis of the tooth. The thickness of the teeth may be chosen for example depending on the type of make-up result to be achieved and/or on the nature of the eyelashes and/or the rheology of the product.

The teeth may have any shape. The teeth may have a cylindrical or tapered shape, in particular a frustoconical or pyramid shape. At least one tooth may have an at least partially frustoconical shape, for example which ends with a rounded firee end, such that the cross section of the tooth decreases from its base in the direction of its free end.

The applicator may have between 75 and 500 teeth, for example. Within a row of teeth, the number of teeth may be between 6 and 60, in particular between 10 and 50.

When the applicator is viewed from the side perpendicularly to its longitudinal axis, at least two teeth may define a V-shaped groove.

At least two consecutive teeth in a row of teeth may have first longitudinal faces that have the same first shape, for example a planar shape, in particular at least in a lower portion of the tooth, and second longitudinal faces that have the same second shape, for example a non-planar, in particular rounded, shape. The first faces may be oriented in the same direction of rotation around the core, that is to say may all be directed in the same clockwise or anticlockwise direction, when the core is viewed along its longitudinal axis.

The first faces of the teeth, in particular when they are planar, may be attached in an approximately perpendicular manner to the corresponding face of the core, at least in the case of some of the teeth of the row.

At least one tooth, or even each tooth, may have a planar face parallel to its direction of elongation.

Some teeth may cross.

The teeth may be rectilinear or not rectilinear, each extending for example in a tooth elongation direction which is rectilineal ^* , or also curved, for example wave-shaped.

The teeth may extend in at least four different directions around the longitudinal axis of the core.

The teeth may extend from the core in a radial manner, that is to say along an elongation axis that passes through the longitudinal axis of the core, or perpendicularly to the surface of the core, or else at an angle of between 0 and 90° with the latter.

At least one tooth in a row may extend, at least in its portion that is attached to the core, or even along its entire length, in a first direction Z _{1 }} which is perpendicular to the longitudinal face of the core to which the tooth is attached or at a small angle with the normal to said surface of the core, for example less than 10°, better less than 5°. One tooth in a consecutive row, or in the same row when this is a multiple row, for example an angled row, may extend, from the same face of the core, in a second direction Z ₂ , at least in the portion which is attached to the core, or even over its entire length, at a non-zero angle a with the first direction, when the core is viewed along its longitudinal axis. The angle a between the directions Z; and Z ₂ may be between 5 and 80°.

The length of a row may be between about 10 and 45 mm, in particular between 15 and 35 mm, or even between 20 and 30 mm, being for example about 25 mm.

The teeth may be produced from a material that is more or less rigid than a material used to produce the stem of the applicator to which the core is attached.

Make-up method

A further subject of the invention is a method for making up the eyelashes or eyebrows by means of an applicator as defined above.

Description of the drawings

The invention will be understood better from reading the following detailed description of non-limiting exemplary embodiments thereof and by examining the appended drawing, in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic elevation view, in partial longitudinal section, of an example of a device produced in accordance with the invention,

Figure 2 shows the applicator from Figure 1 in isolation and in partial longitudinal section,

Figures 3, 3a and 3b show rows of teeth in isolation and in a schematic and partial manner,

Figure 3c shows rows of teeth in isolation and in a schematic, partial and perspective manner,

- Figures 3d and 3e are schematic and partial cross sections through variant embodiments,

Figure 4 is a section along IY-IV in Figure 2, Figure 5 shows a detail from Figure 4,

Figures 6a and 6b are schematic and partial, unrolled views of variant embodiments of indicating means according to the invention,

Figure 7a illustrates a variant embodiment,

- Figure 7b is a view along the arrow B of the applicator from Figure 7a,

Figures 8 and 8a illustrate variant embodiments in elevation and in partial longitudinal section,

Figures 9 and 9a to 9d illustrate different cross-sectional shapes of the core,

- Figures 10 and 10a to lOj illustrate different cross-sectional shapes of teeth,

Figures 1 1 and 12 schematically show a side view of a variant of an applicator member according to the invention,

Figures 13 and 13a to 13f show longitudinal sections through variants, - Figure 14 is a longitudinal section through a variant of the applicator member according to the invention,

Figures 15, 15a and 15b are schematic representations of examples of teeth according to the invention,

Figure 16 shows an example of a wiping member,

- Figures 17 and 17a illustrate examples of arrangements for increasing the flexibility of the applicator member, and

Figures 18a to 18d are cross sections through variant embodiments.

Figure 1 shows a packaging and application device 1 produced in accordance with the invention, comprising an applicator 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 product may be for example a water-resistant mascara or else a mascara which is resistant to rubbing.

In the example in question, the container 3 comprises a threaded neck 4 and the applicator 2 comprises a gripping member 5 that also constitutes a closure cap designed to be fixed to the neck 4 in order to close the container 3 in a sealed manner when it is not being used.

The applicator 2 comprises a stem 7 of longitudinal axis Y, which is attached at its upper end to the gripping member 5 and at its lower end to an applicator member 8. The latter comprises a core 10 that carries teeth 18.

The container 3 also comprises a wiping member 6, which is for example inserted in the neck 4. In the example in question, this wiping member 6, which may have any form, comprises a lip 6a that is arranged so as to wipe the stem 7 and the applicator member 8 when the applicator 2 is withdrawn from the container 3. The lip 6a defines a wiping orifice having a diameter matched to that of the stem.

In the example illustrated, the stem 7 has a circular cross section, but if the stem 7 has a different cross section, this does not depart from the scope of the present invention, it then being possible for the gripping member 5 to be fixed to the container 3 in some other way than screwing, if necessary. The wiping member 6 may be matched to the shape of the stem 7 and to that of the applicator member 8, if appropriate.

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 applicator 2 is in place on the latter, but if the stem 7 is not rectilinear, forming for example an elbow, this does not depart from the scope of the present invention.

If appropriate, the stem 7 may comprise an annular narrowing on its portion that is positioned opposite the lip 6a of the wiping member 6, so as not to unduly stress the latter mechanically during storage.

The applicator member 8 may comprise, as illustrated, an end piece 9 for fixing it to the stem 7. hi the exemplary embodiment in Figures 1 and 2, this end piece 9 has symmetry of revolution, since it has a circular cross section, but it may have some other shape.

The applicator member 8 may be fixed in particular by force fitting, in particular by snap-fastening, adhesive bonding, welding or crimping, in a corresponding housing provided at the end of the stem 7. Alternatively, the stem may be inserted in a housing provided in the core. The core 10 may also be produced in one piece by being moulded integrally with the stem 7.

The core 10 may have an elongate form that extends along a longitudinal axis X. As in the example in question, the core 10 may have a polygonal cross section along the majority of its length, the sides defining longitudinal faces 15. In the example in Figures 1 to 5, the core 10 has a hexagonal cross section. The longitudinal axis X is for example central, as illustrated.

In order to mould the applicator member 8, use may be made of a thermoplastic which is or is not relatively rigid, in particular flexible, for example SEBS, a silicone, latex, butyl, EPDM, a nitrile, a thermoplastic elastomer, a polyester elastomer, polyamide, polyethylene or vinyl, a polyolefm such as PE or PP, PVC, EVA, PS, PET, POM, PA or PMMA. Use may be made in particular of the materials known under the trade names Hytrel ^® , Cariflex ^® , Alixine ^® , Santoprene ^® , Pebax ^® , this list not being limiting. The applicator member may also be made of metal.

In the example in question, the teeth 18 are produced in one piece by being moulded from thermoplastic material with the core 10.

If appropriate, the teeth and the core may be produced from different materials.

The teeth 18 are arranged in rows 17 of teeth having different spacings. The rows 17 of teeth comprise in particular first rows 17', comprising teeth 18 that are spaced apart from one another by a first spacing e _{1 ?} and second rows 17", the teeth 18 of which are spaced apart from one another by a second spacing e ₂ , the second spacing being different from the first spacing, as illustrated in Figures 3 and 3 a. More precisely, in the example illustrated, the first spacing ej is smaller than the second spacing e ₂ .

In addition, the applicator according to the invention comprises an alternation of first rows 17' alternating with second rows 17" around the longitudinal axis X of the core, as can be seen in Figures 3a and 4. It can be seen from Figure 4 that the applicator member has faces 15 that each comprises two rows 17 of teeth 18.

In the example illustrated, the first and second rows differ in terms of the spacing of the teeth in the row, but if they differ in some other way, and if for example the first and second rows differ by at least one of the spacing of the teeth in the row, the number of teeth in the row, the implantation of the teeth in the row, the thickness of the teeth, the shape of the teeth, the shape of the cross section of the teeth, this does not depart from the scope of the present invention.

As a further variant, the teeth of the first and second rows disposed on one side of the core may have a first length and the teeth of the first and second rows disposed on the other side of the core may have a second length that is different from the first, as is illustrated in Figure 3e.

Such a configuration makes it possible to alternate very easily between two types of make-up by slightly rotating the applicator member 10 with respect to the row of eyelashes. When use is made of the rows 17' having the first spacing, the separation of the eyelashes is encouraged, since the teeth are closer together, and when use is made of the rows 17" having the second spacing, the application of product to the eyelashes is encouraged, since the teeth 18 of the rows 1 " are further apart, thereby making it possible to store more product between them.

The rows 17' or 17" may be grouped together in two rows 17 having the same spacing around the longitudinal axis X of the core. As illustrated in Figures 3 and 5, the two rows 1 may constitute a first row 17a and a second row 17b that is offset axially with respect to the row 17a. Each face 15 may, as illustrated in Figure 5, comprise a first row of teeth 17a that are attached at an angle o¾i with the normal to the coixesponding face 15 of the core 10, and a second row of teeth 17b that are attached obliquely to this face 15, at an angle o¾2 with this normal. The teeth 18 of the row 17a extend in a direction Z _\ approximately perpendicular to the face 15, the angle o¾i being relatively small, for example less than 10°, or even than 5°. The teeth 18 of the row 17b are also straight in the example in question and extend in a direction Z ₂ that forms an angle a with the direction Z[. The angle a is for example between 20 and 80°. The teeth 18 of the rows 17a and 17b may be separated by a geometric separation surface S, this surface S being for example a plane bisecting the angle a, so as to form a double row.

Furthermore, as can be seen in Figure 4 in particular, each tooth 18 may comprise a planar first longitudinal face 40 and a rounded second longitudinal face 41, in particular in the form of a half-cone.

Alternatively, the two rows 17' and the consecutive two rows 17" that have different spacings may each be rows that are not offset axially, as illustrated in Figure 3b. As a further variant, they may form rows of teeth in a V shape, as is illustrated in perspective in Figure 3 c.

As a further variant, the first and second rows may for example differ by the implantation of the teeth in the row.

By way of example, an applicator member comprising first rows 17' that comprise teeth in a V shape, and second rows 17" of teeth that are disposed radially, is illustrated in Figure 3d.

Furthermore, the average length of the teeth in a row may be approximately constant from one row to another. More precisely, the length of the teeth is more or less the same, as can be seen in Figure 4, around the longitudinal axis X of the core. It can be seen in Figure 4 that the teeth 18 of the rows 17 that have the same abscissa measured along the longitudinal axis X have the same length /.

The length of the teeth 18 may decrease towards the distal end 12 of the core

10. The length of the teeth 18 may also decrease towards the end piece 9, so as to make it easier for the applicator member 8 to pass the wiping member 6 when the applicator 2 is withdrawn from the container.

It can also be seen in Figure 4 that the closest consecutive rows of teeth 18 define an angular spacing γ between one another. Within the invention, the angular spacing γ is between 15 and 60°, better between 15 and 50°, even better between 20 and 45°. It may be around 30° for example. Such, an angular spacing broadly corresponds to an intuitive rotation carried out by the user in order to slightly offset the rows with respect to the row of eyelashes.

The applicator also comprises advantageously indicating means 20 on the gripping member, said indicating means indicating the position of the applicator member 10 with respect to the user so as to indicate any rotation of the applicator with respect to the user and thus to memorize the angular path followed. In the example illustrated in Figures 1 to 4, the indicating means 20 comprise patches of colour which are arranged circumferentially around the gripping member 5 and the colour of which changes shade regularly.

Of course, if the patches of colour are distributed differently or are not coloured but merely shaded from black to white, as illustrated in Figure 6a, this does not depart from the scope of the present invention.

As a further alternative, the indicating means 20 may comprise a scale comprising, for example alphanumeric, graduations. By way of examples, a scale comprising numbers from 0 to 5 is illustrated in Figure 6b.

In this variant embodiment, the scale is spaced out over 180° and the indicating means comprise two scales which are each spaced out over 180°, said scales being symmetrical to one another with respect to a plane containing the longitudinal axis X.

As a further variant, the gripping member 5 has no alphanumeric or coloured indication. The indicating means 20 may consist solely of reliefs on the gripping member. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 7a and 7b, by way of example, the gripping member comprises longitudinal ribs 21 distributed circumferentially around the gripping member 5. These ribs 21 allow the user to arrange his fingers D in an intuitive manner on the gripping member and to easily move said fingers during use, as is illustrated by dashed lines in Figure 7b.

As a further variant, the indicating means may also comprise, in addition to the reliefs, at least one origin mark 22, as is illustrated by dashed lines in Figure 7a.

As a further variant, the gripping member 5 may comprise a fixed part 5a and also a moving part 5b, which may be rotated by the user with respect to the fixed part 5a. To this end, the moving part 5b may for example comprise points 5c, as illustrated in Figure 8. hi this case, the applicator may comprise an applicator member 10 that is connected in a fixed manner to the rotating part 5b by a moving part 7b of the stem 7, being engaged on a fixed part 7a of the stem 7 which is itself connected to the fixed part 5 a. When the user rotates the moving part 5b with respect to the fixed part 5a of the gripping member, the gripping member 10 is also rotated with respect to the fixed part 7a of the stem.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 8a, the fixed part 5a of the gripping member comprises a catch 30 that is able to engage with indentations 31 formed on the moving part 5b.

In order to use the device 1, the user can unscrew the closure cap 5 and withdraw the applicator member 8 from the container 3. Once the applicator member 8 has passed through the wiping member 6, a certain quantity of product remains between the rows 17 and between the teeth 18 of these rows.

During use, the user has to rotate the applicator member at least once, or even at least twice, or more times, around the longitudinal axis X of the core with respect to the user, between two successive applications of product, without reloading the applicator member with product. Such a movement of the fingers D with respect to the gripping member 5 is illustrated in Figure 7b in one embodiment. It is possible to successively change the position of the fingers on the gripping member without putting the applicator down.

The user can carry out such a movement as many times as necessary until the number of successive layers applied appears to him to be enough to obtain a satisfactory make-up result.

The core 10 may have a cross section which is circular, as illustrated in Figure 9, elliptical, as shown in Figure 9a, hexagonal, as shown in Figure 9d, octagonal, as shown in Figure 9b, or pentagonal, as shown in Figure 9c.

Whatever the implantation of the teeth, at least one tooth may have a semicircular cross section, as illustrated in Figure 10.

Alternatively, the cross section may be circular, as illustrated in Figure 1 Oh, or else triangular, as illustrated in Figure 1 Oe, or lozenge-shaped, as illustrated in Figure 10a, formed by two triangles of different sizes that are joined together, as illustrated in Figure 10c, in the form of a diabolo, as illustrated in Figure lOi, or half diabolo, as illustrated in Figure lOj, or triangular with a groove, as illustrated in Figure lOd, cross-shaped, as illustrated in Figure lOf, square, as illustrated in Figure 10b, or semi-circular with a groove, as illustrated in Figure 1 Og.

Preferably, the teeth have a cross section which is not circular. A non-circular shape of the cross section of the teeth may help to retain product on the teeth.

In one variant embodiment, the longitudinal faces 15 of the core 10 are twisted, as illustrated in Figure 1 1. In order to produce such a shape, the core 10 may be deformed when it is removed from the mould by the end piece 9 being rotated, or alternatively it may be deformed in the mould.

The longitudinal axis X of the core 10 may be coincident with the longitudinal axis Y of the stem 7, but if it is different, and by way of example Figure 12 illustrates a variant embodiment in which the longitudinal axis X of the core 10 forms an angle βι with the longitudinal axis Y of the stem, this does not depart from the scope of the present invention. Such a configuration may for example improve the ergonomics of the applicator.

The applicator may extend along a longitudinal axis X which is not rectilinear. Figure 13 illustrates a variant embodiment in which the core extends along a curved longitudinal axis X. When viewed in longitudinal section, as in Figure 13, the envelope surface E may have, on one side of the axis X, a first, convex profile 54 which is approximately in the same direction as the axis X, and, on the opposite side of the axis X, a second profile 55 that may have a concave curvature in the same direction as the axis X.

The envelope surface may be conical, frustoconical, fish-shaped, diabolo- shaped, pear-shaped, lenticular, or any other shape.

The envelope surface may have a non-cylindrical shape that passes through one maximum or two maxima.

In the variant illustrated in Figure 13 a, the envelope surface E has two opposite longitudinal profiles 54 and 55, one 54 of which is straight.

Alternatively, the envelope surface E may have a cross section which passes through two maxima and one local minimum, as illustrated in Figure 13b, or through one maximum, as illustrated in Figure 13c.

In another variant, illustrated in Figure 13d, the envelope surface E extends generally along a longitudinal axis W that forms an angle γ ₂ with the longitudinal axis X of the core 10.

The variant in Figure 13e differs from that in Figure 13d by the shape of the envelope surface E, which has a cross section that passes through one minimum.

The longitudinal axis X of the core 10 may be rectilinear and be at an angle with the longitudinal axis Y of the stem 7, as illustrated in Figure 13f, the envelope surface E having for example a non-constant cross section that passes, for example, through one minimum.

In the variant embodiment illustrated in Figure 14, the core 10 comprises a recess in which there is inserted a support portion 60, which is, for example, metallic or made of plastics material. The core 10 may be configured to be fixed to this support 60 or be free to rotate or free to move in translation with respect to this support 60. The core 10 may also, for example, be overmoulded on the support 60.

At least one of the teeth 18 of the rows 17 may have a surface state that is not smooth, for example integral furrows or projections, connected for example to the presence of a load in the plastics material.

The applicator member may be produced with a plastics material that comprises magnetic particles. The magnetic field created by such particles, which may be magnetizable and/or magnetized, may interact with magnetic fibres or pigments which may be present in the product.

The applicator member may be produced with flocking, the latter extending for example only over the teeth or only over the core.

At their free ends, the teeth may have a relief or a particular shape, for example a fork, a ball or a hook, as illustrated respectively in Figures 15, 15b and 15a. The hook may extend for example transversely, parallel or obliquely with respect to the longitudinal axis X of the core. In order to obtain the balls, it is possible for example to heat the applicator member so as to melt the ends of the teeth. In order to obtain the forks or hooks, the applicator member may be treated mechanically, for example ground, and thus the ends of the teeth abraded.

The applicator member may comprise any bactericidal agent such as silver salts, copper, preservatives and also at least one product preservative, such as parabens or other preservatives.

The core and/or the teeth may, furthermore, comprise particles, for example a filler, in particular a compound which is magnetic, bacteriostatic or absorbs moisture, or else a compound intended to produce roughness on the surface of the tooth or to help the eyelashes to slide on the teeth. At least one of the core and a tooth may be flocked, receive any heat or mechanical treatment, and/or comprise particles, for example a filler, in order in particular to improve sliding.

The wiping member may comprise a wiping orifice having a circular, oval, square or triangular cross section. The wiping member may comprise one or more slots, the slot or slots being radial or tangential to the orifice.

The wiping member may be produced in some other way, for example comprise a foam block which may be split. The wiping member may also, for example, be such as described in patent applications US 2005/0028834, US 6328495, US 6375374, US 2004/0258453 and US 2005/0175394, whose contents are incorporated by reference.

In particular, the wiping member may be rigid or made of elastomeric material. The wiping lip 6a may advantageously be undulated, having a radially inner free edge that defines a through-orifice 122 for the applicator member, as illustrated in Figure 16. The wiping lip 6a may comprise undulations 120 that extend around the orifice 122. The wiping member 6a may comprise a number of undulations 120 of between 3 and 12, for example.

The wiping lip 6a may extend generally in the form of a cone converging in the direction of the bottom of the container, having a generatrix G that is at an angle i with the axis K of the container. Alternatively, the wiping lip 6a may extend generally in a mid- plane perpendicular to the axis or else generally in the form of a cone converging in the direction of the outlet of the container.

The wiping member may also be adjustable, if appropriate.

At least a part, preferably all, of the stem 7, to which the core is fixed, may be flexible, for example close to the applicator member. The stem may for example comprise at least one flexible element 80, as illustrated in Figure 17, made for example of elastomer and/or having a shape that confers flexibility, for example at least one notch 81, as illustrated in Figure 17a.

The applicator member may be produced by any known method, such as injection moulding, two-shot injection moulding, and also protrusion, in which one material is injected through at least a part of the core so as to form the teeth.

Alternatively, it is possible for the applicator member not to be moulded but to comprise bristles that are held in a core, for example a twisted metal core consisting of a metal wire folded in a U shape and then twisted.

By way of example, Figures 18a to 18d illustrate cross sections through an applicator member comprising first bristles 18a and second, different bristles 18b that are arranged in alternation around the longitudinal axis of the core.

By way of example, in the embodiment in Figure 18a, the second bristles 18b differ from the first bristles 18a by their free end, which comprises a ball formed by heating the free ends of the second bristles. The first bristles extend over first angular extents γι, γι' and γι" and the second bristles extend over second angular extents γ ₂ , γ ₂ ', γ" ₂ . In the example illustrated, the angular extents y _ls γ ₂ , γι', γ ₂ ', γι" and γ ₂ " are the same.

Alternatively, the bristles may differ in some other way than by their free ends, for example by their length, as illustrated in Figure 18b. hi this example, the first bristles 18a are longer than the second bristles 18b.

As a further variant, they may differ both by their length and by their free ends, as illustrated in Figure 18c, in which the first bristles 18a are long and not deformed at their free ends and the second bristles 18b are shorter and deformed at their free ends, comprising balls.

As a further variant, the angular extents may vary. They may for example vary progressively around the longitudinal axis of the core within a cross section, as illustrated in Figure 8d, where they increase progressively.

The applicator member may be able to vibrate, that is to say that it is possible to apply vibrations thereto during the application, the combing or the picking up of the product, for example as described in the application WO 2006/090343.

As a further variant, the applicator member may be able to heat up, that is to say may comprise a heating element.

It is also possible for the applicator member to be able to vibrate and to heat up or only to vibrate or only to heat up.

Of course, the invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments which have just been described, the characteristics of which can be combined within variants that are not illustrated.

The expression "comprising a" should be understood as being synonymous with

"comprising at least one" and "between" is understood as including the limits, unless specified to the contrary.