U.S. patent application number 11/698177 was filed with the patent office on 2007-08-23 for method of preparing a cosmetic composition, and an assembly and a refill for implementing such a method.
This patent application is currently assigned to L'OREAL. Invention is credited to Jean Cotteret, Roland De La Mettrie, Jean-Francois Grollier.
Application Number | 20070196402 11/698177 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38428457 |
Filed Date | 2007-08-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070196402 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
De La Mettrie; Roland ; et
al. |
August 23, 2007 |
Method of preparing a cosmetic composition, and an assembly and a
refill for implementing such a method
Abstract
A method of preparing a cosmetic composition includes selecting
at least one enclosure from a plurality of enclosures containing
different substances, and causing a fluid to flow through the
enclosure(s). The enclosures may be disposed on a common extractor
apparatus and/or form part of a common refill. The fluid passing
through the enclosure is collected and constitutes all or part of a
cosmetic composition.
Inventors: |
De La Mettrie; Roland; (Le
Vesinet, FR) ; Grollier; Jean-Francois; (Paris,
FR) ; Cotteret; Jean; (Verneuil sur Seine,
FR) |
Correspondence
Address: |
OLIFF & BERRIDGE, PLC
P.O. BOX 19928
ALEXANDRIA
VA
22320
US
|
Assignee: |
L'OREAL
PARIS
FR
|
Family ID: |
38428457 |
Appl. No.: |
11/698177 |
Filed: |
January 26, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60773311 |
Feb 15, 2006 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
424/401 ;
206/385 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 81/3283 20130101;
B65D 85/8043 20130101; B65D 75/36 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
424/401 ;
206/385 |
International
Class: |
B65D 85/72 20060101
B65D085/72 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jan 27, 2006 |
FR |
06 50303 |
Claims
1. A method of preparing a cosmetic composition, comprising:
selecting at least one enclosure from a plurality of enclosures
containing different substances, the at least one enclosure being
disposed on a common extractor apparatus and/or forming part of a
common package; and causing a fluid to flow through the selected at
least one enclosure so as to collect at least one solution
constituting all or part of the cosmetic composition.
2. A method according to claim 1, the enclosures of the plurality
of enclosures belonging to a common package.
3. A method according to claim 1, the enclosures of the plurality
of enclosures not belonging to a common package.
4. A method according to claim 1, only one enclosure being
selected.
5. A method according to claim 1, a multiplicity of enclosures
being selected.
6. A method according to claim 5, in which the fluid flows
non-simultaneously in the various enclosures of the multiplicity of
enclosures.
7. A method according to claim 5, in which the fluid flows
simultaneously through the various enclosures of the multiplicity
of enclosures.
8. A method according to claim 5, in which the fluid is injected
into the multiplicity of enclosures with the help of a plurality of
injectors.
9. A method according to claim 8, in which the fluid is injected
into the multiplicity of enclosures with the help of injectors
associated respectively with the various enclosures of the
multiplicity of enclosures.
10. A method according to claim 1, in which prior to selecting at
least one enclosure, at least one item of data is acquired that is
associated with a person to be treated with the composition, and in
which the selection is performed at least on the basis of said item
of data.
11. A method according to claim 10, in which the item of data
comprises a color.
12. A method according to claim 1, at least one of the enclosures
containing a coloring agent for coloring keratinous material.
13. A method according to claim 1, the fluid including water.
14. A method according to claim 13, the fluid being water.
15. A method according to claim 1, the temperature of the fluid
being greater than 80.degree. C.
16. A method according to claim 1, the pressure of the fluid being
greater than or equal to 1 bar.
17. A method according to claim 16, the pressure being greater than
or equal to 3 bars.
18. A method according to claim 16, the pressure being greater than
or equal to 10 bars.
19. A method according to claim 1; the injected fluid being in the
form of both vapor and liquid phases.
20. A method according to claim 1, the at least one solution
obtained from the extraction being collected in a receptacle.
21. A method according to claim 20, the receptacle containing at
least one compound for mixing with the solution coming from the
extraction.
22. A method according to claim 1, in which the enclosures are
defined at least in part by a first wall configured for being
pierced by an injector, and by a second wall configured for opening
under the effect of the of the pressure of fluid being injected
into the enclosure.
23. An assembly enabling a cosmetic composition to be prepared, the
assembly comprising: a plurality of enclosures containing different
substances; and an extractor apparatus configured for allowing
selection of at least one enclosure and configured for injecting at
least one fluid therein and collecting a solution by the at least
one fluid flowing through the enclosure.
24. An assembly according to claim 23, the extractor apparatus
comprising an injector system and an enclosure support system, at
least one of the injector system and the support system being
configured for allowing selection of the at least one enclosure
into which the at least one fluid is to be injected.
25. An assembly according to claim 23, the enclosures belonging to
a common refill.
26. An assembly according to claim 25, the refill including a
cartridge containing the plurality of enclosures.
27. An assembly according to claim 25, the refill including a
plurality of capsules secured to one another and respectively
defining different enclosures.
28. An assembly according to claim 24, support system being
configured for allowing the enclosures to move relative to the
injector system.
29. An assembly according to claim 23, the apparatus including a
heater system to raise the temperature of the fluid to greater than
80.degree. C. prior to injection.
30. An assembly according to claim 23, the apparatus being arranged
to raise the injected fluid to a pressure greater than or equal to
1 bar.
31. An assembly according to claim 30, wherein the pressure is
greater than or equal to 3 bars.
32. An assembly according to claim 30, wherein the pressure is
greater than or equal to 10 bars.
33. An assembly according to claim 23, the extractor apparatus
including a selector system configured for allowing a user to
select one tint amongst a plurality of tints, and configured to
control the injection of the fluid so as to collect a cosmetic
composition of tint that corresponds to the selected tint.
34. An assembly according to claim 33, the support system including
at least one portion in relief enabling the refill the open while
fluid is being injected under pressure.
35. An extractor apparatus enabling a fluid to flow through at
least one enclosure in order to prepare a cosmetic composition, the
apparatus comprising: an injector system; and a support system for
supporting a plurality of enclosures; the extractor apparatus
arranged in such a manner so as to enable one or more enclosures to
be selected through which injection is to take place.
36. An apparatus according to claim 35, including a plurality of
injectors.
37. An apparatus according to claim 35, the injected fluid being
under a pressure of at least 3 bars and at a temperature greater
than 80.degree. C.
38. An apparatus according to claim 37, the injected fluid being in
the form of both vapor and liquid phases.
39. An apparatus according to claim 35, the fluid being water.
40. A package comprising: a plurality of enclosures; and a
plurality of different substances respectively contained in the
various enclosures, and each including at least one compound
capable of being extracted by percolating a fluid through the
corresponding enclosure.
41. A package according to claim 40, the plurality of enclosures
being contained in a common cartridge.
42. A package according to claim 41, at least two enclosures being
separated by a partition inside the cartridge.
43. A package according to claim 40, the enclosures being angularly
distributed around an axis of the package.
44. A package according to claim 40, comprising a body made at
least in part by molding a thermoplastic material.
45. A package according to claim 40, the plurality of enclosures
being defined by a plurality of distinct capsules that are secured
to one another.
46. A package according to claim 45, the capsules being carried by
a support element.
47. A package according to claim 46, the support element being
annular in form.
48. A package according to claim 46, the support element being
elongate in form.
49. A package according to claim 46, the capsules being disposed in
rows.
50. A package according to claim 46, the support element being made
integrally together with at least a portion of the capsules.
51. A package according to claim 40, each enclosure including a
sealing gasket arranged to co-operate with at least one
injector.
52. A package according to claim 40, each enclosure being
substantially airtight.
53. A package according to claim 40, the refill including keying
means.
54. A package according to claim 40, at least one of the substances
contained in the enclosures including a coloring agent for
keratinous materials.
55. A package according to claim 40, the plurality of substances
including a plurality of coloring agents of different colors for
keratinous materials.
56. A package according to claim 40, the substances contained in
the enclosures being in powder form.
57. A package according to claim 40, the enclosures being defined
at least in part by a wall arranged to open under the effect of the
pressure of the fluid injected into the associated extractor
apparatus.
58. A package according to claim 40, each enclosure having a volume
in the range of about 1 cm.sup.3 to about 20 cm.sup.3.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This non provisional application claims the benefit of
French Application No. 06 50303 filed on Jan. 27, 2006 and U.S.
Provisional Application No. 60/773,311 filed on Feb. 15, 2006, the
entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by
reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present invention relates to cosmetic compositions, and
more particularly to those obtained by causing a fluid to flow in
contact with a substance having at least one compound that can be
extracted by the fluid.
[0003] The following European patent applications: EP 1 563 827-A2,
EP 1 566 164-A1, EP 1 563 885-A1, EP 1 559 400-A1, EP 1 559 398-A1,
EP 1 563 826-A1, EP 1 559 414-A1, EP 1 563 826-A1, EP 1 559 401-A1,
EP 1 559 392-A1, EP 1 559 396-A1, and EP 1 556 163-A1, all disclose
methods of preparing a cosmetic composition by percolating a
fluid.
[0004] Application WO 00/56629 discloses a cartridge for an
apparatus for extraction by percolation.
SUMMARY
[0005] There exists a need to improve methods of preparing cosmetic
compositions.
[0006] There also exists a need to prepare personalized cosmetic
compositions in a manner that is reliable and relatively simple,
and to facilitate the packaging and use of substances involved in
preparing such compositions.
[0007] Embodiments of the invention seeks to satisfy these needs in
full or in part. Thus, in one of its aspects, the invention may
provide a method of preparing a cosmetic composition, the method
comprising: a) selecting at least one enclosure from a plurality of
enclosures containing different substances, the enclosures being
disposed on a common extractor apparatus and/or forming part of a
common refill; and b) causing a fluid to flow through the selected
enclosure(s) so as to collect at least one solution constituting
all or part of the cosmetic composition.
[0008] The enclosure may be a compartment.
[0009] Embodiments of the invention may facilitate preparing a
personalized cosmetic composition, since the extractor apparatus
can be relatively simple to manufacture.
[0010] Embodiments of the invention may also make it easier to
package and store substances used for preparing the composition, by
making it possible to use substances that are not liquids.
[0011] Embodiments of the invention also may make it possible to
have available within a common enclosure compounds in powder form
that are unsuitable for being stored over a long period when in
solution, in particular when mixed together.
[0012] Finally, embodiments of the invention may make it easier to
use substances of natural origin, in particular plant extracts or
minerals.
[0013] The flow of fluid through the selected enclosure(s) may be
by percolation.
[0014] The term "percolation" designates passing a fluid through a
medium that is permeable to the fluid, the medium being in powder
form, for example. The medium may be dissolved entirely by the
passage of the fluid, where appropriate. The medium need not be a
foodstuff.
[0015] The fluid, which is sometimes also known as a percolate, may
comprise a liquid and/or a gas, e.g. water. Other solvents can be
used, e.g. a solution in alcohol or in oil.
[0016] The quantity of substance contained in an enclosure may be
relatively small, e.g. corresponding to a single use. The quantity
of substance may be less than or equal to 25 cubic centimeters
(cm.sup.3), or 10 cm.sup.3, or 7.5 cm.sup.3, or indeed 5 cm.sup.3,
for example.
[0017] Once extraction has been performed by the fluid, the
enclosure can be disposed of, e.g. by being recycled.
[0018] The enclosures disposed on the extractor apparatus may
optionally belong to a single refill.
[0019] A plurality of enclosures may be selected, thus making it
possible to make a mixture, for example. In a variant, only a
single enclosure need be selected.
[0020] The fluid may flow simultaneously or otherwise through the
various enclosures of a plurality of enclosures.
[0021] The fluid may be injected into the plurality of enclosures
with the help of a plurality of injectors, which may be associated
respectively with different enclosures of the plurality of
enclosures. The use of a plurality of injectors can reduce the risk
of an enclosure becoming contaminated by a substance coming from
another enclosure. Where appropriate, the injector(s) may be
subjected, between the fluid injection steps, to cleaning, e.g. by
means of a flow of fluid in and/or over the injector. The injector
may also be removable in order to make it easier to clean.
[0022] At least one of the enclosures may include an agent for
coloring keratinous materials, e.g. the skin, mucous membranes,
hair, and other keratinous fibers such as the eyelashes and the
eyebrows. Different enclosures in a single refill may contain
different coloring agents, or the same coloring agents but at
different concentrations.
[0023] The same refill may include coloring agents that enable a
plurality of shades of a given color to be obtained.
[0024] The coloring agent(s) may be for performing dyeing directly,
or by means of oxidation, optionally for bleaching purposes. For
example, it may constitute tone on tone coloring.
[0025] The coloring agent(s) may be direct dyes or oxidation
dyes.
[0026] Prior to selecting at least one enclosure, at least one item
of data may be acquired that is associated with the person to be
treated with the cosmetic composition, and the enclosure(s) may be
selected on the basis of said at least one item of data.
[0027] The data may comprise a color, e.g. that of the skin or the
hair of the person to be treated with the composition.
[0028] By way of example, the enclosure(s) may be selected to
reproduce a tint of the skin or of the hair, and it is also
possible for selection to be for the purpose of reproducing a color
selected by a user from a color chart or a hair color-chart or
corresponding to a commercial reference, for example.
[0029] The substances contained in the enclosures may be in powder
form.
[0030] Where appropriate, a single enclosure may contain at least
two compounds in powder form. These two compounds may be mixed,
optionally uniformly, within the enclosure. By way of example, the
compounds may be placed in the enclosure in successive layers.
[0031] The temperature of the fluid injected into the enclosure may
be greater than 8020 C., thus encouraging certain compounds to
dissolve, the fluid possibly being in the form of both vapor and
liquid phases, thus facilitating extraction.
[0032] The injection pressure is preferably greater than or equal
to 1 bar (10.sup.5 Pa), or greater than or equal to 3 bars, or more
preferably greater than or equal to 10 bars, e.g. being as high as
10 bars to 50 bars.
[0033] The solution(s) coming from the extraction may be collected
in a receptacle, e.g. in a bowl.
[0034] The receptacle may optionally be provided with a closure
member, in particular for stirring purposes, or to enable the
consumer to take the composition for use away from the premises on
which it was prepared.
[0035] The receptacle may optionally contain at least one compound
for mixing with the solution(s) obtained by the extraction, in
particular a cosmetically-acceptable medium, e.g. a base or a dye
oxidizer.
[0036] Each of the enclosures may be defined at least in part by a
first wall suitable for having an injector of the extractor
apparatus pass therethrough, e.g. by being perforated.
[0037] Each of the enclosures may also be defined at least in part
by a second wall suitable for opening under the effect of the
pressure at which the fluid is injected into the enclosure, e.g. by
the second wall being deformed against at least one portion in
relief that is suitable for causing it to open. By way of example,
the second wall is deformed against a grid arranged so that
deformation is accompanied by the enclosure opening, while also
serving to enable the second wall to retain substantially all of
the substance that has not been dissolved by the fluid flowing
through the enclosure.
[0038] By way of example, the first and second walls comprise at
least one layer of material that is suitable for being torn and/or
perforated relatively easily, e.g. a layer comprising a metal, e.g.
aluminum, of thickness less than or equal to 0.1 millimeters (mm),
for example.
[0039] In another of its aspects, the invention also may provide an
assembly enabling a cosmetic composition to be prepared, the
assembly comprising: a plurality of enclosures containing different
substances; and an extractor apparatus arranged in such a manner as
to enable at least one enclosure to be selected from the plurality
of enclosures in order to inject a fluid therein and collect at
least one solution by the fluid flowing through the
enclosure(s).
[0040] The apparatus may comprise an injector system and a support
system for supporting the enclosures, and at least one of the
injector system and the support system may be arranged in such a
manner as to make it possible to select the enclosure(s) in which
the fluid is to be injected.
[0041] The enclosures may be fitted on the extractor apparatus or
they may belong thereto.
[0042] The enclosures may optionally belong to a single refill. The
refill may comprise a cartridge containing a plurality of
enclosures. The refill may also comprise a plurality of capsules
that are secured to one another, at least during use, defining
respective different enclosures.
[0043] The support system may be arranged to enable the enclosures
to be moved relative to the injector system.
[0044] This movement may be performed manually or it may be
motor-driven, it may be in rotation, or in translation, or in some
other manner, e.g. in such a manner as to cause at least one
injector to penetrate into a selected enclosure. During such
movement, the injector may follow a trajectory and take during the
trajectory a position in which the injector is in register with at
least one other enclosure, for example.
[0045] The extractor apparatus may also include a plurality of
injectors, and optionally that can avoid any need for such
movement.
[0046] Selection may also be performed by enabling the user to
position the refill in the extractor apparatus in such a manner
that injection takes place in one or more selected enclosures.
[0047] Where appropriate, the user may select only one enclosure at
a time, perform injection, and reposition the refill in the
extractor apparatus so as to select another enclosure, in the event
that the composition is to be prepared from substances coming from
a plurality of enclosures.
[0048] As mentioned above, the extractor apparatus may include a
heater system to raise the temperature of the fluid to greater than
80.degree. C. prior to injection.
[0049] When the enclosures include coloring agents, the extractor
apparatus may include a selector system arranged firstly to enable
a user to select one tint from a plurality of tints, and secondly
to confirm injection of the fluid so as to collect a cosmetic
composition of tint that corresponds to the selected tint.
[0050] In another of its aspects, the invention also may provide an
extractor apparatus enabling a fluid to flow, and in particular to
percolate, through at least one enclosure in order to prepare a
cosmetic composition, the apparatus comprising: an injector system;
and a support system for supporting a plurality of enclosures; the
extractor apparatus being arranged in such a manner as to enable
one or more enclosures to be selected through which injection is to
take place.
[0051] The apparatus may include a system for collecting solutions
that come from fluid flowing through the enclosures, the system
being arranged to mix the solutions.
[0052] By way of example, the collector system may comprise a
receptacle placed under the enclosures and/or channels enabling the
flow of liquid to be guided after it has passed through the
enclosures.
[0053] The apparatus may comprise a plurality of injectors.
[0054] In another of its aspects, the invention also may provide a
refill comprising: a plurality of enclosures; and a plurality of
different substances respectively contained in the various
enclosures, and each including at least one compound capable of
being extracted by percolating a fluid through the corresponding
enclosure. As mentioned above, the fluid may be water.
[0055] The plurality of enclosures may be contained in a
cartridge.
[0056] At least two enclosures may be separated by a partition
inside the refill.
[0057] The enclosures may be distributed angularly about an axis of
the refill, or they may be in alignment, or they may be disposed
circularly, or in some other way.
[0058] The refill may comprise a body made at least in part by
molding a thermoplastic material, or by stamping and/or folding or
thermoforming a material in sheet form.
[0059] The plurality of enclosures may also be defined by a
plurality of distinct capsules that are connected to one
another.
[0060] The capsules may be carried by a support element, which
support element may be annular or elongate in shape, for
example.
[0061] The capsules may be placed in rows, or otherwise.
[0062] Each enclosure may be associated with at least one sealing
gasket arranged to co-operate with at least one injector. By way of
example, the sealing gasket may be a membrane of an elastically
deformable material that is arranged to allow the injector to pass
therethrough.
[0063] Each enclosure may be substantially airtight.
[0064] The refill may include keying means so as to enable it to be
placed on the extractor apparatus in a predefined orientation.
[0065] As mentioned above, at least one of the substances contained
in the enclosures may comprise a coloring agent for coloring
keratinous materials. Specifically, the plurality of substances may
comprise a plurality of coloring agents of different colors for
coloring keratinous materials, so as to make it possible to prepare
a cosmetic composition having a personalized tint, for example.
[0066] Where appropriate, the compounds contained in the various
enclosures may all be different.
[0067] The substances contained in the enclosures are
advantageously in powder form, or in a variant in the form of a
gel, a paste, or a liquid.
[0068] Amongst the substances that may be contained in the various
enclosures secured to the extractor apparatus, e.g. belonging to a
common refill, the following combinations are possible, amongst
others:
[0069] a first substance comprising a first coloring agent
contained in a first enclosure, and a second substance comprising a
second coloring agent, different from the first, and contained in a
second enclosure;
[0070] a first substance comprising a first cosmetically or
dermatologically active agent contained in a first enclosure, and a
second substance comprising a second cosmetically or
dermatologically active agent, different from the first, and
contained in a second enclosure; and
[0071] a first substance comprising a first plant or mineral
extract contained in a first enclosure, and a second substance
comprising a second plant or mineral extract, different from the
first, and contained in a second enclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0072] Various details of the present invention may be better
understood on reading the following detailed description of
non-limiting embodiments, and on examining the accompanying
drawings, in which:
[0073] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic perspective view of an example of a
refill;
[0074] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the FIG. 1 refill;
[0075] FIG. 3 is a plan view taken along III-III of FIG. 2;
[0076] FIG. 4 is a view analogous to FIG. 3 showing a variant
embodiment;
[0077] FIG. 5 is a view analogous to FIG. 2 showing a variant
embodiment;
[0078] FIG. 6 is a fragmentary perspective view showing an example
of an extractor apparatus suitable for being used in preparing a
cosmetic composition;
[0079] FIG. 7 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of the refill
in place in an apparatus;
[0080] FIG. 8 is a simplified diagrammatic view of a feed circuit
for the extractor apparatus of FIG. 6;
[0081] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another example of a
refill;
[0082] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along X-X of FIG.
9;
[0083] FIG. 11 is a plan view of another example of a refill;
[0084] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along XII-XII of
FIG. 11;
[0085] FIG. 13 is a plan view of another example of a refill;
[0086] FIG. 14 is an elevation view of another example of the
extractor apparatus;
[0087] FIG. 15 is a simplified diagrammatic view of another feed
circuit of an extractor apparatus; and
[0088] FIGS. 16 to 18 are diagrammatic fragmentary views of ways in
which the various injectors of an extractor apparatus can be
positioned relative to the enclosures of a refill.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0089] FIGS. 1 to 3 show a refill 1 constituting an embodiment of
the invention, presented in the form of a cartridge. The word
"refill" is used because a user could refill (replenish) the user's
supply of the substance P by purchasing one or more refills 1 when
desired (for example, when the user's supply of substance P is
depleted). The refills 1 are not themselves necessarily refilled
with substance P (that is, they are not necessarily re-used),
although in embodiments they could be refilled with substance
P.
[0090] The refill 1 contains two substances P.sub.1 and P.sub.2
respectively contained in separate manner in two enclosures 2 and 3
defined by the refill.
[0091] In the example shown, the enclosures 2 and 3 are formed by
two compartments of a tubular body 4 that are separated by a single
partition 5. By way of example, the partition is made by being
molded as a single piece together with the body 4.
[0092] In the example shown, the body 4 is made with a flange 8 at
one end, and by way of example it is generally
circularly-cylindrical about an axis X.
[0093] The flange 8 may be provided with keying means 10, e.g. in
the form of a recessed or projecting portion in relief, e.g. a
notch.
[0094] Alternatively, if the body 4 is made without keying means
10, it could be made to be of a shape that is not circularly
symmetrical, so as to allow it to be positioned in the associated
extractor apparatus in one way only.
[0095] The body 4 is closed on top by a first wall 12, and at the
bottom by a second wall 13.
[0096] By way of example, the walls 12 and 13 are constituted by
film which is heat sealed to the body 4 and the partition 5 in such
a manner as to close the enclosures 2 and 3 in airtight manner. By
way of example, the film may include at least one layer of metal,
in particular of aluminum.
[0097] The volume of each of the enclosures 2 and 3 is preferably
less than or equal to 20 cm.sup.3 or 10 cm.sup.3, e.g. lying in the
range 1 cm.sup.3 to 5 cm.sup.3.
[0098] Naturally, various modifications could be made to the shape
of the refill 1 without going beyond the ambit of the present
invention.
[0099] The number of enclosures contained in the refill 1 may be
other than two, in particular, for example it could lie in the
range two to ten, e.g. being four as shown in FIG. 4.
[0100] FIG. 4 shows that the refill 1 may have at least one second
partition 15 co-operating with the partition 5 to define four
enclosures, thus making it possible to contain two additional
substances P.sub.3 and P.sub.4 separately from the substances
P.sub.1 and P.sub.2.
[0101] Where appropriate, the refill 1 may have a first wall 12
which is made at least in part integrally with the body 4, e.g. by
molding.
[0102] By way of example, the first wall 12 may then be pierced by
openings 21 associated respectively with the different enclosures,
as shown in FIG. 5.
[0103] The openings 21 may be closed in such a manner as to enable
the injectors of the associated extractor apparatus to enter
therethrough.
[0104] By way of example, closing may be performed by means of
diaphragms 18 heat sealed to the inside face 20 of the first wall
12.
[0105] In a variant, the diaphragms 18 are secured to the outside
on the first wall 12 or they are injected thereover, e.g. using an
elastomer material.
[0106] The diaphragms 18 may also be made integrally with the first
wall 12 and out of the same material, by giving the first wall 12
reduced thickness locally, or by making zones of weakness. While
injection is taking place, the diaphragms 18 may be arranged to be
perforated or to become detached, at least in part, from the first
wall 12.
[0107] In order to use the refill 1 of FIG. 1, the user may place
it on a support system 30 of an extractor apparatus 31 that also
includes an injector system 40, as shown in FIG. 6.
[0108] In the example shown, the extractor apparatus 31 includes a
gap 32 under the support system 30 for receiving a receptacle R
suitable for collecting a solution coming from percolation of a
fluid through the enclosure selected by the user.
[0109] In the example shown in FIG. 7, the support system 30
includes a grid 36 provided with portions in relief 37 against
which the second wall 13 can be pressed under the pressure of the
fluid injected into the selected enclosure.
[0110] The second wall 13 is arranged to be perforated by the
portions in relief 37 of the grid, thereby enabling the injected
fluid to flow through the channels 38 in the grid 36 towards the
receptacle R.
[0111] The second wall 13 may advantageously be opened in such a
manner as substantially to retain inside the enclosure in question
any particles of the substance that have not dissolved.
[0112] The receptacle may be wide enough to collect the solutions
flowing from the various enclosures, given their positions. Where
appropriate, a system for collecting the solutions may be provided
to convey them into the receptacle when the enclosures are not
situated vertically thereover.
[0113] As further shown in FIG. 7, the injector system 40 includes
at least one injector 41 capable of passing through the first wall
12 and of penetrating into the selected enclosure.
[0114] In order to enable the user to select the enclosure into
which the fluid is injected, the extractor apparatus 31 may include
a selector system, e.g. comprising a control knob 39 which the user
can actuate in order to turn the refill 1 about it axis X so as to
position it with an angular orientation that enables the injector
41 to penetrate into the enclosure in which percolation is to be
performed.
[0115] The extractor apparatus 31 may include sealing means (not
shown) making it possible, where necessary, to guarantee that the
injector 41 penetrates in leaktight manner into the selected
enclosure.
[0116] By way of example, these sealing means may comprise at least
one sealing gasket that bears against the outside of the refill, at
least during injection.
[0117] As shown diagrammatically in FIG. 8, the extractor apparatus
31 may include an extractor fluid feed circuit having: at least one
tank 45 for containing the liquid L that is to be injected; a pump
46; and a heater member 47 serving to raise the liquid L to the
desired temperature, and where appropriate, to generate steam. This
can contribute to generating the desired injection pressure.
[0118] In the example described, the fluid injection pressure is,
for example, at least 3 bars and preferably at least 10 bars, and
the injection temperature is at least 80.degree. C., for
example.
[0119] In particular, the temperature of the fluid may be
sufficient for the fluid to present both liquid and gaseous phases
while it is being injected into the selected enclosure.
[0120] The tank 45 of the extractor apparatus may be filled
manually or automatically, being connected to a water pipe, e.g.
via a solenoid valve.
[0121] Where appropriate, the tank 45 may be removable so as to
make it easier to fill manually.
[0122] The heater member 47 may comprise an electrical resistor
element.
[0123] The extractor apparatus 31 may also include one or more
check valves and/or solenoid valves (not shown), together with one
or more sensors for sensing level, weight, pressure, and/or
temperature, together with a control system for the various
electrical, electromechanical, and sensor members.
[0124] By way of example, a level sensor can be useful for
detecting when it is necessary to refill the tank 45 or to enable
the receptacle R to be filled with a predefined total quantity of
composition.
[0125] A weight sensor may be useful for determining the quantity
of composition that has been delivered to the receptacle R, for
example.
[0126] Where appropriate, the person skilled in the art can easily
refer to the extractor apparatuses used for preparing beverages of
the "espresso" type, and the feed circuits thereof can be
reproduced, at least in part.
[0127] By way of example, such apparatuses are disclosed in the
following publications: AT 168,405, U.S. Pat. No. 2,688,911, DE
3,243,870, IT 1,265,636, and WO 2004/006,740-A2.
[0128] By way of example, the refill 1 contains a plurality of
agents for coloring keratinous materials, in different colors.
[0129] The user can select the enclosure containing the substance
corresponding to the desired color.
[0130] When the refill 1 is in the extractor apparatus 31, the
injector 41 is brought into the selected enclosure, and it is
possible to inject the fluid.
[0131] During injection, the second wall 13 opens under the effect
of the pressure that exists within the enclosure and because of the
portions in relief of the grid 36.
[0132] The quantity of liquid L that is taken from the tank 46 and
injected into the refill 1 may be predetermined or it may be
controlled by the user, e.g. as a function of the quantity of
composition that is to be prepared and/or as a function of the
degree of dilution of the compound(s) extracted from the refill 1
by percolation.
[0133] If necessary, the user can perform several injections in
succession and can collect the solutions that result from
percolation in a single receptacle, in order to mix them.
[0134] For example, the user may select at least two enclosures
enabling a particular color shade or coloring agent to be obtained
by mixing the extraction solutions.
[0135] The refill 1 may be in a form other than that of a
cartridge, and for example as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, it may have
enclosures defined by capsules 50 carried by a support element 51,
e.g. in the form of a plate.
[0136] By way of example, the capsules 50 may have a first wall
that is formed by stamping or thermoforming a sheet material, e.g.
aluminum or a laminate including aluminum. As stamped or
thermoformed, this wall may define the support element 51 around
the capsules 50.
[0137] The capsules 50 may be closed by a second wall 53, e.g.
constituted by a film that is heat sealed on the support element
51.
[0138] The support element 51 may include keying means 56, e.g. in
the form of a notch.
[0139] Where appropriate, the support element 5 land the capsules
50 may be made separately.
[0140] For example, the support element 51 can be made in the form
of a plate with holes, and the capsules can be secured in the
holes, e.g. as a function of the substances that it is desired to
associate within a single refill.
[0141] The capsules may be fastened in the holes of the support
element in optionally releasable manner. Where appropriate,
releasable fastening can enable the user to replace used capsules
with new capsules. By way of example the releasable fastening may
be performed by friction and/or by snap-fastening.
[0142] In the example of FIGS. 9 and 10, the capsules 50 are
disposed in rows.
[0143] In the variant of FIGS. 11 and 12, the support element 51 is
annular in shape, and in the example of FIG. 13, it is in the form
of a strip.
[0144] In order to use the refill of FIG. 13, the user can place
it, for example, in an extractor apparatus between a support system
30 and an injector system 40, as shown in FIG. 14.
[0145] The user positions the support element 51 in the extractor
apparatus as a function of the enclosure into which it is desired
to inject fluid. Only the capsule corresponding to said enclosure
is perforated by the injector 41.
[0146] Where appropriate, and as shown in FIG. 15, the extractor
apparatus may have a plurality of injectors 41, and the feed
circuit may have a plurality of flow-control members 60, each
associated with a respective injector and controlled in common by a
control system 61 in such a manner that only the selected
injector(s) 41 is/are fed by the fluid for injection.
[0147] The quantity of fluid percolating in the selected
enclosure(s) may be predefined, or, for example, selected as a
function of the concentration desired for the or each compound
extracted by percolation.
[0148] By way of example, the flow-control members 60 may be
proportional solenoid valves enabling the flow through each
injector to be adjusted in a manner other than by on/off adjustment
alone. For example, the control members 60 may be
piezoelectric.
[0149] By adjusting the different flow rates several shades can be
obtained, for example.
[0150] By way of example, the injectors 41 are arranged in such a
manner that all of them penetrate into the enclosures associated
with the refill, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, with fluid being
injected into only the selected enclosure(s) by controlling the
flow.
[0151] In a variant, the injector system is arranged in such a
manner that the injectors 41 and/or the enclosures can be moved
relative to one another so that only the injector(s) 41 that is/are
being fed penetrate(s) into the corresponding enclosure(s). By way
of example, the pressure of the injection fluid can contribute to
moving injector while it is being fed, so as to cause it to
penetrate into the enclosure.
[0152] FIG. 15 also shows the possibility of the feed circuit
exchanging data with a computer system 100, e.g. comprising at
least one microcomputer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a
terminal connected to a network, or a mobile telephone, or even
that is integrated in the extractor apparatus.
[0153] By way of example, the computer system 100 may be associated
with a data acquisition system, e.g. comprising a camera 101 or any
other device for analyzing keratinous materials, e.g. for analyzing
the color of the skin or of the hair.
[0154] The computer system 100 may also be associated with a color
chart or with a hair color chart 102 or with some other evaluation
tool, e.g. a questionnaire.
[0155] The computer system 100 may be arranged in such a manner as
to enable a user to select at least one characteristic of the
cosmetic composition that is to be prepared by means of the
extractor apparatus and the enclosures containing the various
substances. By way of example, this characteristic may be
color.
[0156] The computer system 100 may be used to enable the user to
select a desired tint, and the computer system 100 may be arranged
to send data to the control system 61 enabling it to control the
injection of fluid into enclosures that have been predefined in
such a manner as to obtain a composition having the desired
properties.
[0157] As a function of the substances contained in the enclosures,
the user may also select a characteristic for the composition in
addition to color, for example a fragrance, a consistency, one or
more active ingredients, a duration for its activity, a dilution,
or a characteristic enabling the composition to be adapted to a
particular type of skin or hair, amongst others.
[0158] Where appropriate, the extractor apparatus may include an
output 110 enabling the liquid L to be dispensed into the
receptacle R without passing through the enclosures, e.g. for the
purpose of diluting the solution(s) obtained by percolation into
the receptacle so as to obtain a predefined volume of composition.
The output 110 may be fed by means of a solenoid valve 63 or any
other means for controlling the quantity of fluid that is
dispensed, such as a pump, for example.
[0159] The solenoid valve 63 is controlled by the control system
61, e.g. so as to have a total volume or weight of composition in
the receptacle that corresponds to a predefined value, as a
function of the quantities already dispensed after injection into
the selected enclosure(s).
[0160] In the variant shown in FIG. 18, the enclosures are defined
by independent capsules 80, and the extractor apparatus has a
plurality of injectors respectively associated with the various
capsules. The support system of the extractor apparatus includes a
variety of housings for receiving the capsules, for example.
[0161] Injection may be performed into a selected capsule by
causing the injector to penetrate into the corresponding enclosure,
e.g. by moving the injector and/or the capsule, where this movement
may be caused, the example, by the user acting on at least one of
the injector system and the support system. This movement may also
be the result of drive from a pneumatic or a hydraulic motor, e.g.
with assistance from the pressure of the fluid.
[0162] The invention is not limited to the embodiments shown.
[0163] In particular, the refill may be given further shapes other
than those shown, the example in the form of a small tray, a
sachet, etc. Capsules or sachets containing different substances
may be contained in a single package.
[0164] The enclosures may be filled at the time of manufacture. In
a variant, the enclosures may be filled as a function of requests
made by a consumer, for example.
[0165] Different compartments in a single refill may be made
separately and then assembled together.
[0166] During manufacture, the enclosures may also be in a deployed
configuration, and this configuration can be modified during
manufacture and/or in use.
[0167] Fluid may flow in a selected enclosure either vertically or
otherwise.
[0168] In the examples shown, injection into a selected enclosure
takes place via a single injector, however in a variant injection
may take place via a plurality of injectors, in order to improve
putting the fluid into contact with the substance contained in the
enclosure.
[0169] Although the present invention herein has been described
with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood
that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles
and applications of the present invention. It is therefore to be
understood that numerous modifications may be made to the
illustrative embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised
without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
invention.
[0170] The term "comprising a" should be understood as being
synonymous with "comprising at least one", unless specified to the
contrary.
* * * * *