U.S. patent application number 11/768044 was filed with the patent office on 2008-01-24 for unit for packaging and applying a product, in particular a cosmetic product, and corresponding application process.
This patent application is currently assigned to L'OREAL. Invention is credited to Laure Thiebaut.
Application Number | 20080017215 11/768044 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37603439 |
Filed Date | 2008-01-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080017215 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Thiebaut; Laure |
January 24, 2008 |
UNIT FOR PACKAGING AND APPLYING A PRODUCT, IN PARTICULAR A COSMETIC
PRODUCT, AND CORRESPONDING APPLICATION PROCESS
Abstract
A device such as a cosmetic product applicator includes two
wands which are movable with respect to one another between a
distant position and a close position for applying the product,
each wand of the product applicator can include at least one
surface for receiving and applying the product which extends
longitudinally along the wand in order to deposit, by transfer, the
product in the form of substantially a line, with the surfaces for
receiving and applying the product being substantially smooth.
Inventors: |
Thiebaut; Laure; (Clichy,
FR) |
Correspondence
Address: |
OBLON, SPIVAK, MCCLELLAND MAIER & NEUSTADT, P.C.
1940 DUKE STREET
ALEXANDRIA
VA
22314
US
|
Assignee: |
L'OREAL
Paris
FR
|
Family ID: |
37603439 |
Appl. No.: |
11/768044 |
Filed: |
June 25, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60836942 |
Aug 11, 2006 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
132/218 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A46B 2200/1053 20130101;
A46B 5/0012 20130101; A45D 40/265 20130101; A45D 40/24
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
132/218 |
International
Class: |
A45D 40/26 20060101
A45D040/26 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jun 23, 2006 |
FR |
0605647 |
Claims
1. An applicator for a cosmetic product, comprising: two wands
which are movable with respect to one another between a distant
position and a close position for applying the product, wherein
each wand includes at least one surface for receiving and applying
the product which extends longitudinally along the wand in order to
deposit, by transfer, the product in the form of substantially a
line, and wherein the surfaces for receiving and applying the
product are substantially smooth.
2. The applicator according to claim 1, wherein, when in the close
position, the receiving surface of one of the wands is configured
to contact substantially along its entire length, a corresponding
receiving surface of the other wand.
3. The applicator according to claim 1, wherein the wands rest
against one another in the close position for applying the product
so as to form branches of a tong between which a surface to be
treated is positioned during use.
4. The applicator according to claim 1, in which the wands are
positioned symmetrically with respect to one another, with regard
to a general axis of the applicator.
5. The applicator according to claim 1, in which the receiving and
applying surfaces of the wands delimit, in the close applying
position, a housing configured to receive the product.
6. The applicator according to claim 1, wherein at least one wand
includes a longitudinal groove.
7. The applicator according to claim 1, further comprising a
control mechanism that moves the wands from the distant position to
the close applying position.
8. The applicator according to claim 7, wherein the control
mechanism includes two grasping parts by which the wands are
extended, the grasping parts being positioned such that the
grasping parts are set far apart relative to one another when the
wands are in the close applying position, and are resting against
one another when the wands are in the distant position.
9. The applicator according to claim 7, in which the control
mechanism and the wands are made as one piece.
10. The applicator according to claim 1, further comprising a
grasping device connectable to the wands; a container configured to
store the product and connectable to the applicator; and a closure
device that closes off the container, wherein the wands are
oriented so that a displacement of the grasping device relative to
the container results in a movement of the wands from the distant
position to the close applying position.
11. The applicator according to claim 1, wherein the wands have a
length of less than or equal to 6 cm.
12. The applicator according to claim 1, wherein the surface for
receiving and applying the product has a width of less than 5 mm
and preferably of between 1 and 2 mm.
13. The applicator according to claim 1, wherein the wands have a
substantially straight or substantially non-planar shape.
14. A device for packaging and applying a cosmetic product,
comprising: a container configured to store the product; and an
applicator connectible to the container, the applicator including
two wands which are movable with respect to one another between a
distant position and a close position for applying the product,
wherein each wand includes at least one surface for receiving and
applying the product which extends longitudinally along the wand in
order to deposit, by transfer, the product in the form of
substantially a line, and wherein the surfaces for receiving and
applying the product are substantially smooth.
15. The device according to claim 14, wherein the container
delimits internally a space fillable with the cosmetic product.
16. The device according to claim 15, wherein a product is present
in the container, the product present in the container being
mascara.
17. The device according to claim 14, wherein the surfaces for
receiving and applying the product are in fluid communication with
the container.
18. The device according to claim 14, wherein the wands of the
applicator are configured to be inserted into the container in
order to be supplied with product.
19. The device according to claim 18, further comprising: a
wringing means for rubbing against an external surface of the wands
and removing product located on the external surfaces when the
wands are removed from the container.
20. The device according to claim 19, wherein the storage container
includes an open end having a neck portion, the wringing means
being positioned inside at least a part of the neck portion.
21. The device according to claim 20, further comprising: a closure
mechanism that closes the container, the closure mechanism being
securable to the neck portion of the container.
22. The device according to claim 21, wherein the applicator is
slidingly engaged with the closure mechaism.
23. A method of applying a cosmetic product to keratinous fibers,
comprising: depositing the cosmetic product on the keratinous
fibers using an applicator, wherein the applicator includes two
wands which are movable with respect to one another between a
distant position and a close position for applying the product,
wherein each wand includes at least one surface for receiving and
applying the product which extends longitudinally along the wand in
order to deposit, by transfer, the product in the form of
substantially a line, and wherein the surfaces for receiving and
applying the product are substantially smooth.
24. The method according to claim 23, further comprising:
distributing the product to be applied over the applicator;
positioning the wands on either side of a fringe of the keratinous
fibers on which the product is to be applied; and narrowing a
distance between the wands in order to transfer product onto the
fringe of the keratinous fibres.
25. A device for containing and applying a product, comprising: a
housing configured to contain the product; at least one aperture
formed in one end of the housing; and an applicator securable to
the end of the housing having the aperture, the applicator
including two wands for applying the product, wherein the two wands
are configured to be in fluid communication with the product
contained in the housing through the aperture.
26. The device according to claim 25, wherein each of the two wands
include a substantially smooth surface used for applying the
product.
27. The device according to claim 26, wherein said housing contains
a flowable product which flows through the aperture.
28. The device according to claim 25, wherein the two wands are
movable with respect to each other between a close position and a
distant position.
29. The device according to claim 25, wherein one of the two wands
is stationary and another of the two wands is movable with respect
to the stationary wand.
30. The device according to claim 28, further comprising: a cap
mountable on said housing, wherein the cap is configured to hold
the wands in the close position.
31. The device according to claim 27, wherein the housing includes
an operable member, the operable member includes an extending
portion configured to control movement of the product in the
housing.
32. The device according to claim 31, wherein the substantially
smooth surface extends substantially the entire length of the
wand.
33. The device according to claim 32, wherein at least one wand
includes a longitudinal groove extending at least substantially the
entire length of the smooth surface, the grooves are configured to
contain the product as the product flows from the housing due to
the user controlling the operable member.
34. The device according to claim 33, wherein the grooves include a
porous membrane configured to contain the product.
35. The device according to claim 27, wherein an interior of the
housing storing the product is divided into two sections, one of
the sections storing a first product and a second of the sections
storing a second product.
36. The device according to claim 28, wherein, when in the close
position, a surface for receiving the product of one of the wands
is configured to contact substantially along its entire length a
corresponding receiving surface of the other wand.
37. The device according to claim 36, wherein an end portion of
each of the wands includes an abutment surface, the abutments
surfaces are configured to engage each other when the wands are
secured by a cap holding the wands in the close position.
38. The device according to claim 37, wherein the abutment surface
of each wand is located immediately adjacent the surface for
receiving the product.
39. The device according to claim 38, wherein the wands further
include a groove extending along substantially the entire length of
the wand, and wherein the grooves and abutment surfaces form a
containing area for holding the product that flows from the
housing.
40. The device according to claim 22, wherein when the closure
mechanism is located at or near an end of the applicator, the wands
are located in the distant position with respect to each other and
when the closure mechanism slides along the applicator, the wands
move towards each other to the close position.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This document claims priority to French Application Number
06 05647, filed Jun. 23, 2006 and U.S. Provisional Application No.
60/836,942 filed Aug. 11, 2006, the entire content of which are
hereby incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention relates to devices for packaging and applying
products, in particular fluid products. More particularly, the
invention relates to a device for packaging and applying a cosmetic
product, that is to say a product as defined in Council Directive
93/35/EEC of 14 Jun. 1993.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Discussion of Background
[0003] Makeup products are known to be generally stored in a
storage container provided with a closure means which will close an
open end of the container in order to store the product and shelter
it from the air.
[0004] The product is conventionally applied using an applicator
fitted to the closure means. The applicator can, for example, be
positioned on the end of a wand carried by the closure means so
that, when the container is closed, the applicator is immersed in
the container, in contact with the product.
[0005] The applicators are often produced in the form of a comb or
of a brush, application then being carried out by sliding the
applicator, charged with product, against a surface to be
treated.
[0006] It is also known to have an applicator, capable of being
inserted into the container for storage of liquid makeup, with two
wands which are movable with respect to one another, so as to form
the branches of a tong between which the eyelashes of the user are
immobilized.
[0007] So as to coat the eyelashes with liquid makeup, one of the
wands is provided, close to its free end, with a groove for the
withdrawal of the makeup present in the container. The groove
extends transversely between side edges of the wand for the
withdrawal of the liquid makeup.
[0008] As disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,325,071, a wand includes a
projection positioned facing the groove and agreeing in shape with
the latter, so that it presses the eyelashes to be coated inside
the groove filled with makeup when the wands approach one another.
To this end, the wand provided with a groove for the withdrawal of
the makeup also comprises, in the vicinity of this, teeth extending
transversely to the wands in order to distribute the product over
the entire length of the eyelashes.
[0009] WO 2004/077987 provides for the use of an applicator
provided with two wands which are movable with respect to one
another and which include at their free end, a brush for the
application of a cosmetic product.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] There exists a need to have a device which makes it possible
to produce novel makeup effects by depositing a pattern on only a
part of the eyelashes, for example by depositing a continuous line
transversely to the eyelashes. As such, one of the particularly
advantageous applications of the invention relates to the
application of a fluid makeup product to the eyelashes of a
user.
[0011] According to a first example of the invention, an applicator
for a cosmetic product is provided that includes two wands which
are movable with respect to one another between a distant position
and a close position for applying the product.
[0012] According to a general characteristic of the applicator,
each wand of the product applicator includes at least one surface
for receiving and applying the product which extends longitudinally
along the wand in order to deposit, by transfer, the product in the
form of a line, the surfaces for receiving and applying the product
being substantially smooth.
[0013] It should be appreciated that, in the context of the present
description, the term "wand" is understood to mean any component of
elongated and thin general shape, so that there is no departure
from the scope of the invention irrespective of the transverse
cross section of the wand, which can without distinction be
rectangular, round, parallelepipedal, oval, "U"-shaped, "V"-shaped,
and the like, or the general shape of the wand, which can, for
example, be rectilinear or curved.
[0014] With such smooth surfaces for receiving and applying which
extend longitudinally along the wands, it becomes possible to apply
product in the form of a continuous line over only a part of a
fringe of eyelashes. It should be understood that the term
substantially smooth surface means a surface at least substantially
devoid of bumps, projections, teeth, stubs, spikes or hairs
provided for combing the eyelashes.
[0015] In an example, the receiving surface of a wand rests against
the receiving surface of the other wand in the close position. In a
preferred example, the receiving surface of the wand rests over
substantially its entire length against the receiving surface of
the other wand in the close position.
[0016] According to another example of the invention, the wands
rest against one another in the close position for applying the
product so as to form the branches of a tongs between which a
surface to be treated is intended to be housed.
[0017] According to another example of the invention, the wands
rest against one another in the close position for application of
the product over substantially their entire length.
[0018] Preferably, the wands delimit internal surfaces for the
purpose of receiving and applying the product. Thus, it is not
necessary to provide for the addition of additional means at the
free end of the wands in order to make it possible to apply the
product. However, it is understood that it might be possible to
provide additional components over the internal surfaces. For
example a layer of polymer capable of promoting the maintenance of
the cosmetic product on the applicator before it is applied to the
eyelashes, can be provided.
[0019] According to one or more examples of the invention, the
wands are positioned symmetrically with respect to one another,
with regard to a general axis of the applicator.
[0020] In one embodiment, the receiving and applying surfaces of
the wand delimit, in the close applying position, a housing
intended to receive the product.
[0021] Preferably, at least one wand includes a longitudinal
groove.
[0022] Advantageously, the applicator of one or more examples
additionally includes control means (i.e. control device or control
mechanism) configured to make possible the relative displacement of
the wands from the distant position to the close applying position.
For example, the control means can each include a grasping part by
which the wands are extended. The grasping parts can be arranged in
order to be set far apart relative to one another when the wands
are in the close applying position and in order to be resting
against one another when the wands are in the distant position.
[0023] Preferably, the control means and the wands are made as one
piece.
[0024] In another embodiment, the applicator includes a grasping
means (i.e. device or mechanism) connected to the wands, the wands
being configured so that a displacement of the grasping means
relative to a closure means capable of closing off a container to
which the applicator is intended to be fitted results in a movement
of the wands from the distant position to the close applying
position.
[0025] An example of the invention provides for the wands to have a
length of less than or equal to 6 cm. Even more preferably, the
length can be less than 5 cm.
[0026] Further examples of the invention provide for wands that can
have a straight or non-planar general shape. Advantageously, the
surface for receiving and applying the product has a width of less
than 5 mm and more preferably of between 1 and 2 mm.
[0027] According to another embodiment of the invention, a unit for
packaging and applying a cosmetic product is provided that includes
a container having the product and an applicator as described
above.
[0028] The storage container delimits internally a space intended
to be filled with product. In an example, the product present in
the container is mascara.
[0029] In one embodiment, the surfaces for receiving and applying
the product of the wands are in fluid communication with the
container.
[0030] Preferably, the wands of the applicator are capable of being
inserted into the storage container in order to be charged with
product.
[0031] According to an example, the unit can additionally include a
means (i.e. device) for wringing the wands against which the
external surfaces of the wands will rub, when the applicator is
displaced in the storage container, the wringing means being
positioned inside a neck of the container.
[0032] The applicator can also include a closure means (i.e.
device) for the container.
[0033] Advantageously, the wands and the closure means are obtained
by moulding at least one synthetic material. In a preferred
example, these two components can be made as one piece.
[0034] In one embodiment, the applicator is movable with respect to
the closure means.
[0035] According to another exemplary embodiment, a subject-matter
of the invention is a process for making up keratinous fibres, in
which a cosmetic product is deposited in the form of a line using
an applicator as described above. The line can be continuous or
noncontinuous or also straight or curved.
[0036] Preferably, the makeup process includes successive stages
during which the product to be applied is distributed over the
applicator, the wands are positioned on either side of a fringe of
keratinous fibres, for example eyelashes, on which the product has
to be applied, and the wands are narrowed in order to transfer
product onto the fringe of keratinous fibres.
[0037] As should be apparent, the invention can provide a number of
advantageous features and benefits. It is to be understood that, in
practicing the invention, an embodiment can be constructed to
include one or more features or benefits of embodiments, disclosed
herein, but not others. Accordingly, it is to be understood that
the preferred embodiments discussed herein are provided as examples
and are not to be construed as limiting, particularly since
embodiments can be formed to practice the invention that do not
include each of the features of the disclosed examples.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0038] A better understanding of the invention will be gained from
reading the following description in conjunction with the
accompanying figures. The figures are offered purely as a guide and
by way of example, and in no way limit the invention.
[0039] FIG. 1 is a schematic sectional view of a unit for packaging
and applying a cosmetic product according to a first embodiment of
the invention;
[0040] FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the unit of FIG. 1 in the
closed state;
[0041] FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the unit of FIG. 1 in the open
state;
[0042] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the unit of FIGS.
2 and 3;
[0043] FIG. 5 is a view of the unit of FIGS. 1 to 4 during use;
[0044] FIG. 6 is a schematic sectional view of a unit for packaging
and applying a cosmetic product according to a second embodiment of
the invention;
[0045] FIG. 7 is a schematic sectional view of a unit for packaging
and applying a cosmetic product according to a third embodiment of
the invention;
[0046] FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view of the unit of FIG.
7;
[0047] FIG. 9 is a schematic sectional view of the unit of FIG.
7;
[0048] FIG. 10 is a front view of a unit for packaging and applying
a cosmetic product according to a fourth embodiment of the
invention; and
[0049] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a unit for packaging and
applying a cosmetic product according to a fourth embodiment of the
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0050] Referring now to the drawings, like reference numerals are
utilized to designate identical or corresponding parts throughout
the several views.
[0051] A unit for packaging and applying a product for making up
the eyelashes, which can be for example mascara, has been
represented and denoted by the general numerical reference 10 in
FIGS. 1 to 3.
[0052] According to one or more examples of the invention, the
product for making up the eyelashes can comprise a wax or a mixture
of waxes. The wax can be generally a lipophilic compound which is
solid at ambient temperature (25.degree. C.) and which has a
reversible solid/liquid change in state. By way of example, the
waxes are chosen from solid waxes, which are or are not deformable
at ambient temperature, of animal, vegetable, mineral or synthetic
origin and their mixtures. Use may in particular be made of
hydrocarbon waxes, such as beeswax, lanolin wax and Chinese insect
waxes; rice wax, carnauba wax, candelilla wax, ouricury wax,
esparto wax, cork fibre wax, sugar cane wax, Japan wax and sumac
wax; montan wax, microcrystalline waxes, paraffin waxes and
ozokerite; polyethylene waxes, the waxes obtained by the
Fischer-Tropsch synthesis and the waxy copolymers and their esters,
the waxes obtained by catalytic hydrogenation of animal or
vegetable oils having linear or branched C.sub.8-C.sub.32 fatty
chains, silicone waxes or fluorinated waxes.
[0053] In the position represented in FIGS. 1 and 2, the unit 10 is
represented in the closed state while, in the position visible in
FIG. 3, the unit is open. This unit 10 includes a longitudinal axis
X-X' assumed to be vertical.
[0054] As is seen in FIGS. 1 to 3, the unit 10 includes a container
12 and a product applicator 14 fitted to the said container. The
container 12 is produced in the form of a cylindrical tube
possessing a deformable wall extending along the axis X-X'. The
container 12 has a body provided with a closed lower end 16 forming
the base and with an open opposite end 18 forming the neck. The
container 12 delimits internally a space 20 filled with the
cosmetic product. A shoulder 22 which extends substantially
radially is inserted between the neck 18 and the peripheral wall of
the container 12. In order to allow the applicator 14 to be fitted
to the container 12 by snapping on, the container also comprises a
radial annular flange 24 arranged on the neck 18, in the vicinity
of the shoulder 22.
[0055] According to an example, the applicator 14 includes a skirt
30 which can be a substantially hemispherical general shape and
which is provided on its internal wall with an annular peripheral
hollow moulding 36 into which will snap, upon assembling, the
flange 24 of the neck 18. In this assembling position, the lower
end of the skirt 30 rests against the shoulder 22. Of course, it
would also be possible, in an alternative form, to form the
peripheral hollow moulding 36 on the neck 18 and to insert the
flange 24 on the internal wall of the skirt 30. Further, it should
be appreciated that a variety of types of attachment structure can
be provided to facilitate the connection of the applicator 14 to
the container 12, for example by screwing.
[0056] The skirt 30 can be modeled so that its upper end is shifted
vertically upwards with respect to the upper end of the neck 18 of
the container 12.
[0057] So as to provide a secure connection and make as leak tight
as possible the coupling between the container 12 and the
applicator 14, the applicator 14 can include an annular lip 38
which extends axially from the upper end of the skirt 30 in the
direction of the container 12 so that it contacts the bore of the
neck 18. A radial space (not referenced) is thus delimited between
the lip 38 and the skirt 30 of the applicator 14.
[0058] According to one or more embodiments of the invention, the
applicator 14 also includes two rigid wands 32, 34 which extend the
skirt 30 and which are modelled so as to make possible application
of cosmetic product. The wands 32 and 34 can be made as one piece
with the skirt 30 and the lip 38. In an example, the applicator 14
is formed by molding a synthetic material.
[0059] According to an example, in the closed state, as is
represented in FIGS. 1 and 2, the wands 32 and 34 extend from an
upper end of the skirt 30 parallel to the general axis X-X' of the
container 2. The axis X-X' also constitutes a general axis of the
applicator 14. The wands 32 and 34 can be positioned symmetrically
with respect on one another, with regard to the general axis X-X'.
In this position, the applicator 14 closes off the container 12.
One or both of the wands 32 an 34 can have a length of between 3
and 6 cm and preferably between 4 and 5 cm and/or a width of
between 0.5 and 5 mm, preferably between 1 and 2 mm. It should be
appreciated that it is within the spirit and scope of the invention
to have wands of any desirable shape and size.
[0060] According to a further example, the wand 32 includes a first
wand part 42 which extends rectilinearly from the upper end of the
skirt 30 and which is prolonged upwards by a second wand part 44
inclined in the direction of the axis X-X'. The second part is
terminated by an axial surface 45 which extends along the said axis
X-X'. At an upper end, the axial surface 45 is prolonged by a
projection 46 which extends radially in the direction of the wand
34.
[0061] Similarly, the wand 34 includes a first rectilinear wand
part 48 which is prolonged at an upper end by a second wand part 50
inclined in the direction of the axis X-X'. The second part is
terminated by a staged axial surface 52 which extends along the
said axis X-X'. The axial surface 52 is configured so as to rest
against the axial surface 45 and the projection 46 of the wand 32.
Thus, according to this example, the axial surfaces 45 and 52
constitute abutment surfaces which ensure the relative positioning
of the wands 32 and 34 of the applicator 14, in the closed state,
as is represented in FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0062] One or more embodiments of the invention provide for each of
the wands 32, 34 to include a groove 54, 56 arranged over at least
part of, and more preferably over the entire length of, the first
and second parts 42 and 44, 48 and 50, at an internal surface 54a,
56a, intended to receive the product present inside the container
12.
[0063] According to one or more examples of the invention, the
grooves 54 and 56 can extend as far as the level of the annular lip
38 of the skirt 30 and are configured to be in fluid communication
with the container 12. Thus, the surfaces 54a, 56a for receiving
the product are in fluid communication with the container 12 via
the annular lip 38 and the grooves 54 and 56.
[0064] The grooves 54 and 56 exhibit here in cross section, a
U-shaped general profile. The base 54b, 56b of the grooves 54 and
56 is here substantially flat. The depth of the grooves 54 and 56
can, for example, be of the order of a millimeter. Of course, it is
also possible to envisage planning for other types of profile, for
example in the shape of the arc of a circle and for any desirable
depth.
[0065] In the position represented in FIGS. 1 and 2, in which the
wands 32 and 34 extend parallel to the general axis X-X', the
grooves 54 and 56 delimit a housing 58 in communication with the
space 20 of the container 12. In this position, the surfaces 45 and
52 in contact against one another make it possible to obtain a leak
tight housing 58.
[0066] In order to keep the wands 32 and 34 in the closed state,
the unit 10 can additionally include a closing cap 60, as shown in
FIG. 1. The cap 60 can be of parallelepipedal or any other
desirable shape, which is prolonged at a lower end by a rim 61
which comes into contact against the external surface of the skirt
30. The rim 61 is laid out in order to be snapped onto the skirt 30
or to be fitted by any other appropriate means to the skirt 30.
[0067] As mentioned above, the closing cap 60 makes it possible to
hold the wands 32 and 34 in the closed state. That is, due to their
design and the nature of the material used to prepare the wands 32
and 34, when the closing cap 60 is removed from the unit 10, the
wands have a tendency to move away with respect to one another, as
is represented in FIG. 3. The wands 32 and 34 are thus spaced out
from one another at rest.
[0068] When it is desired to use the unit 10, it is thus
appropriate, in a first step, to remove the closing cap 60, the
wands 32 and 34 thus moving away with respect to one another.
During a second stage, the user presses against the deformable wall
of the container 12 so that the cosmetic product present flows
within the grooves 54 and 56 as far as the surfaces 45 and 52.
Thus, the cosmetic product fills the grooves 54, 56 and can come as
far as the surfaces 54a and 56a. The surfaces 54a and 56a of the
wands 32 and 34, the base 54b and 56b of each of the grooves 54 and
56 and the side walls of the latter can thus constitute surfaces
for receiving and applying the product.
[0069] The flow of the product over and the application of the
product to these surfaces takes place homogeneously over the
applicator 14 and over most of its length, this being achieved in
particular by the anticipation of receiving and applying surfaces
54a and 56a which are substantially smooth.
[0070] During use, the wands 32 and 34 are positioned so that they
are situated on either side of the fringe of eyelashes to be made
up, and the wands are pressed on in order to compress them until
they are in contact against one another, as is represented in FIG.
5. Thus, the fringe of eyelashes to be made up is situated in the
housing 58 delimited by the grooves 54 and 58 of the wands 32 and
34 and filled with cosmetic product.
[0071] The cosmetic product is thus easily applied to the
eyelashes, for example in the form of a line corresponding
substantially to the width of the grooves 54 and 56 over a
significant length of the fringe of eyelashes, this being achieved
by virtue of the design of an applicator over which the cosmetic
product flows longitudinally over smooth surfaces 54a and 56a
extending over most of the length of these wands.
[0072] In the embodiment illustrated, the unit 10 allows the
cosmetic product to be applied to both sides of the fringe of
eyelashes. It is easily understood that it is also possible,
without departing from the scope of the invention, to provide a
unit 10 in which only one of the wands of the applicator comprises
a groove for conveying or receiving the product so as to apply it
to only one of the sides of the eyelashes. Similarly, it is also
possible to envisage providing a unit 10 configured so that just
one of the two wands is movable.
[0073] In an alternative embodiment, it is also possible to fit,
inside the grooves 54 and 56, porous membranes which allow the
cosmetic product emerging from the container 12 to pass and which
limit a possible risk of intrusion of contaminants inside the
container.
[0074] The alternative embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, in which
the identical components carry the same references, differs in that
the container 12 comprises a vertical wall 70 which divides the
space 20 into two identical compartments 20a and 20b which can be
filled with different cosmetic products. The vertical wall 70
extends along the axis X-X' from the base 16 as far as the free end
of the neck 18. This design of the container 12 in this example is
particularly advantageous for feeding each of the wands 32, 34 with
a different product capable of cross linking on contact with the
other product during the application for the purpose of forming
embossments on the eyelashes.
[0075] A unit for packaging and applying a cosmetic formulation
according to a further embodiment of the invention, denoted by the
general numerical reference 100, is represented in FIGS. 7 to 9.
The unit 100 includes a longitudinal axis Y-Y' which is assumed to
be vertical. In the position represented in FIG. 7, the unit 100 is
represented in the closed state while, in the position visible in
FIGS. 7 and 8, the unit is open. As is seen in FIGS. 7 to 9, the
unit 100 includes a container 102 and a means 104 for closure of
the container which carries an applicator 105 which is used to
apply a cosmetic product present in the container.
[0076] The container 102 can include a body provided with a closed
lower end 106 forming the base and with an open opposite end 108
forming the neck. The container 102 delimits internally a space 110
filled with a cosmetic product. A radial shoulder 112 is inserted
between the neck 108 and the peripheral wall of the container
102.
[0077] The closure means 104 can include, for its part, a closure
cap 114 of cylindrical general shape. It is provided with a
threaded bore 116 so as to allow it to be attached to the neck 108
of the container 102 by screwing. To this end, the neck 108 also
includes a threading 118 complementary to that of the cap 114. The
height of the bore 116 is greater than that of the neck 108, so
that the lower end of the cap 114 can come into contact against the
shoulder 112 in a screwed position. Of course, it is also within
the spirit and scope of the invention for the closure means 104 to
be fitted to the container 102 by any other appropriate means, for
example by snapping on.
[0078] As indicated above, the closure means 104 carries an
applicator 105. This applicator 105 can be provided with two wands
120 and 122 intended to be positioned inside the container 102
between two uses of the unit 100 and with a mount 124 which
supports the two wands.
[0079] The mount 124 exhibits here a cylindrical general shape
which extends along the general axis Y-Y' of the container 102,
when the closure means 104 is fitted to the neck of the container.
The length of the mount 124 is substantially equal to the height of
the closure means 104, but any size can be used for the mount 124.
Thus, when the closure means 104 is fitted to the neck 108, the
wands 120 and 122 lie inside the space 110 of the container filled
with cosmetic product.
[0080] According to an example, the mount 124 is mounted in sliding
fashion in a centered bore of the closure means 104. The mount 124
includes, at its free end, a grasping means produced in the form of
a button 126 projecting with respect to an upper surface of the
closure means 104. The button 126 also forms an abutment capable of
resting against the upper surface of the closure means 104.
[0081] The rigid wands 120 and 122 are shown in a rectangular
shape. Of course, it is also possible to envisage allowing any
other desirable shape such as, for example a semi cylindrical form.
The wands 120 and 122 extend from the lower end of the mount 124 so
as to form substantially a V directed downwards. In order to obtain
such a V configuration for the wands 120 and 122, it is possible,
for example, to produce the applicator 105 by moulding a synthetic
material.
[0082] When the container 102 is closed off by the closure means
104, the free ends of the wands 120 and 122 are situated in the
vicinity of the side wall of the container. Thus, in this position,
the external surfaces 128, 130 and the internal surfaces 132, 134
of the wands 120 and 122 of the applicator 105 are charged with
cosmetic product.
[0083] When it is desired to use the unit 100, it is appropriate,
in a first step, to unscrew the closure means 104 from the neck 108
of the container. During such an operation, the external surfaces
128, 130 of the wands 120, 122 can come into contact against an
annular wringing means 136 mounted inside the neck 108 in order
that only product applied to the internal surfaces 132, 134 of the
wands 120 and 122 remains on the wands. The internal surfaces 132,
134 of the wands thus constitute surfaces for receiving the
product. In order to obtain a homogeneous distribution of the
product over the wands 120 and 122, the internal surfaces 132, 134
are smooth. The term "smooth" is understood here to mean a surface
which is at least substantially devoid of bumps, projections,
teeth, stubs, spikes, and the like, provided for combing the
eyelashes. The surfaces 132, 134 constitute surfaces for applying
the product.
[0084] In order to apply the charged product, the wands 120 and 122
are positioned so that they are situated on either side of the
fringe of keratinous fibres to be made up, for example eyelashes,
and the button 126 is pulled in order to move the mount 124 towards
the outside. Thus, the upper end of the wands 120 and 122 is
located inside the bore of the cap 114, which brings about a
compression until they are in contact against one another. The
cosmetic product can thus be applied in the form of a line
corresponding substantially to the width of the wands 120 and 122
over a significant length of the fringe of eyelashes.
[0085] This embodiment, and in other embodiments set forth in the
specification, is suitable for the application or the transfer of a
relatively viscous product.
[0086] A unit for packaging and applying a cosmetic product
according to a further embodiment of the invention, denoted by the
general numerical reference 200, has been represented in FIGS. 10
and 11. In this embodiment, the unit 200 is particularly suitable
for the application of a relatively liquid product. This unit 200
includes a longitudinal axis Z-Z' assumed to be vertical. In the
position represented in FIG. 10, the unit 200 is represented in the
closed state while, in the position visible in FIG. 11, the unit is
open.
[0087] As is seen in these figures, the unit 200 includes a
container 202 and a product applicator 204. The container 202 is
produced here in the form of a cylindrical tube possessing a rigid
wall which extends along the axis Z-Z' and which delimits
internally a space (not represented) filled with cosmetic
product.
[0088] At its lower end, the container 202 includes an operating
means 206 comprising, over the whole of its external surface,
ridges 208 capable of making it easier to grasp and actuate. This
is because, in a way known per se, when the operating means 206 is
rotated, it makes it possible to dispense the cosmetic product via
an operable member such as a piston (not represented) which slides
inside the container 202, the translational movement of which
inside the container is controlled by the rotation of the operating
means 206. The operating means and operable member can be utilized
with all embodiments set forth herein.
[0089] At its upper end, the container also includes an open end
forming a neck 210 inside which is housed a porous membrane or wick
212 which extends vertically upwards along the axis Z-Z'. The
porous wick 212 exhibits an elongated general shape.
[0090] According to an example, when the operating means 206 is
rotated, the cosmetic product emerging from the container 202 is
conveyed inside the porous wick 212 before being directed outside
the latter. This porous wick 212 makes it possible in particular to
limit a possible risk of intrusion of contaminants inside the
container 202.
[0091] The applicator 204 can include two wands 214, 216 and two
grasping parts 218, 220 which extend the said wands vertically
upwards and which are modelled so as to allow them to be displaced.
In the closed state, as is represented in FIG. 10, the wands 214
and 216 extend vertically along the general axis Z-Z' of the
container 202, being positioned symmetrically with respect to one
another, with regard to the said axis. In this position, the
applicator 204 closes off the container 202.
[0092] Each wand 214, 216 can include a wand part 224, 226 which
extends vertically in rectilinear fashion and which is terminated
at its lower end by a bevelled surface 228, 230. In the closed
state, the parts 224 and 226 rest against one another over their
entire length.
[0093] The beveled surfaces 228 and 230 for their part rest against
sloping surfaces 232 and 234 of the container 202 which are
inserted at an upper end of the latter, in the vicinity of the neck
210. The surfaces 228 to 234 agree in shape in order to obtain good
leak tightness between the wands 214 and 216 and the container
202.
[0094] In order to allow the porous wick 212 to be housed inside
the wands 214 and 216, the wands 214 and 216 include a groove 236,
238 inserted over their entire length on a smooth surface 236a,
238a for receiving the product. The grooves 236 and 238 present
here in cross section a U-shaped general profile. Of course, it is
also possible to envisage allowing for other types of profile, for
example in the form of the arc of a circle, according to the shape
of the porous wick 212.
[0095] A porous component (not represented) capable of retaining
the cosmetic liquid product emerging from the container 202 is
fitted inside each of the grooves 236 and 238.
[0096] The grasping parts 218 and 220, these make it possible in
particular to hold the wands 214, 216 in the closed state, as is
illustrated in FIG. 10. In this regard, the applicator 204 can, for
example, be prepared by moulding a synthetic material so that the
grasping parts 218 and 220 are set far apart with respect to one
another forming here a V directed downwards in order to keep the
wands 214, 216 resting against one another in a close position and
that the movement of the latter to a distant position can be
controlled by the grasping parts 218 and 220, when the said parts
are compressed towards one another.
[0097] The wands 214, 216 are in an extreme distant position when
the grasping parts 218 and 220 are resting against one another.
Thus, these grasping parts 218 and 220 form means for controlling
the position of the wands 214, 216.
[0098] According to one or more examples, when it is desired to use
the unit 200, it is appropriate, in a first step, to actuate the
operating means 206 in order that the cosmetic product should be
extracted from the container 202 and should flow inside the grooves
236 and 238 homogeneously over most of their length, via the porous
wick 212, in order to impregnate the porous components positioned
in the grooves 236 and 238 and to make possible the deposition of
product on the smooth internal surfaces 236a and 238a. Thus, the
surfaces 236a, 238a for receiving the product are in fluid
communication with the container 202 via the porous wick 212.
[0099] Subsequently, the grasping parts 218 and 220 are pressed
against in order for the wands 214 and 216 to move away with
respect to one another. The closure means 214 is thus separated
from the container 202.
[0100] During a third stage, the wands 214 and 216 can be
positioned so that they are situated on either side of the fringe
of eyelashes to be made up and the grasping parts 218 and 220 are
moved apart in order to compress the said wands until they are in
contact against one another. The cosmetic product is thus readily
applied in, for example, the form of a line corresponding
substantially to the width of the grooves 236 and 238 over at least
a significant length of the fringe of eyelashes.
[0101] By virtue of the unit for packaging and applying of one or
more examples of the invention, it becomes possible to readily
obtain a homogeneous and continuous application of product in the
form of a line which extends, for example, transversely with
respect to the eyelashes.
[0102] Obviously, numerous modifications and variations of the
present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It
is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended
claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as
specifically described herein.
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