U.S. patent application number 17/639798 was filed with the patent office on 2022-09-15 for device for applying a cosmetic product.
This patent application is currently assigned to L'OREAL. The applicant listed for this patent is L'OREAL. Invention is credited to Jean-Baptiste BLANC, Franck GIRON, Henri SAMAIN.
Application Number | 20220287439 17/639798 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006417385 |
Filed Date | 2022-09-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220287439 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
SAMAIN; Henri ; et
al. |
September 15, 2022 |
DEVICE FOR APPLYING A COSMETIC PRODUCT
Abstract
A device for applying a cosmetic composition, in particular a
makeup or care composition, to an application zone of a user,
having a positioning system comprising at least one support
configured to be positioned on a predefined supporting zone of the
user's body and at least one connecting member connected to an
application system for the composition, the support having a
customized shape, adapted to said supporting zone, and/or the
connecting member having a customized shape and/or dimensions,
adapted to the morphology of the user, the device being configured
to guide the connecting member, in particular to impose a
predefined trajectory on said connecting member, when the latter is
moved relative to said supporting zone from a position in which the
support is positioned on said zone, in order to bring the
application system into contact with said application zone.
Inventors: |
SAMAIN; Henri; (Chevilly
Larue, FR) ; BLANC; Jean-Baptiste; (Chevilly Larue,
FR) ; GIRON; Franck; (Chevilly Larue, FR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
L'OREAL |
Paris |
|
FR |
|
|
Assignee: |
L'OREAL
Paris
FR
|
Family ID: |
1000006417385 |
Appl. No.: |
17/639798 |
Filed: |
August 24, 2020 |
PCT Filed: |
August 24, 2020 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP2020/073656 |
371 Date: |
March 2, 2022 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45D 40/262 20130101;
A45D 2200/1018 20130101; A45D 2200/1036 20130101; A45D 40/30
20130101 |
International
Class: |
A45D 40/26 20060101
A45D040/26; A45D 40/30 20060101 A45D040/30 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Sep 3, 2019 |
FR |
FR19 09657 |
Claims
1. A device for applying a cosmetic composition, in particular a
makeup or care composition, to an application zone of a user,
having a positioning system comprising at least one support
configured to be positioned on a predefined supporting zone of the
user's body and at least one connecting member connected to an
application system for the composition, the support having a
customized shape, adapted to said supporting zone, and/or the
connecting member having a customized shape and/or dimensions,
adapted to the morphology of the user, the device being configured
to guide the connecting member, in particular to impose a
predefined trajectory on said connecting member, when the latter is
moved relative to said supporting zone from a position in which the
support is positioned on said zone, in order to bring the
application system into contact with said application zone.
2. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the support is
configured to be positioned on a supporting zone other than the
application zone, in particular the root of the nose, the temples
or the ears, for application to the eyelids or eyebrows.
3. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the supporting zone is
an ear, a part of the head, in particular the temples, a part of
the nose, in particular the nostrils or the root of the nose, or
the chin.
4. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the connecting member
has a part that is movable or deformable with respect to the
support, being able in particular to move vertically, horizontally
or diagonally with respect to the support and/or to the supporting
zone, in particular in rotation or translation.
5. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least a part of the
support is movable with respect to the supporting zone, being able
in particular to move vertically, horizontally or diagonally with
respect thereto, in particular being guided in its movement by the
nose.
6. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the connecting member
is plastically or elastically deformable, in particular under
pressure exerted by one or more fingers, being in particular a
flexible bow, the support having in this case two opposite parts,
each of which is positioned on a supporting zone, in particular a
temple of the user.
7. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, the connecting member
being a stem connecting two opposite parts of the support, each of
which is positioned on a supporting zone, for example a temple, the
device has cams attached to said opposite parts of the support so
as to move the connecting member toward the application zone, once
the device has been positioned correctly, in order that the
application system comes into contact with said application zone,
in particular a zone of the user's eyes, for example the eyebrows
or eyelids.
8. The device as claimed in claim 1, in the form of goggles, which
are configured to be pushed toward the eyes from a position to a
position along the nose until they have reached the right
position.
9. The device as claimed in claim 1, configured to be used on two
predefined symmetric zones in order to achieve a symmetric makeup
result, in particular on the two eyelids, the two lines of eyebrows
or of eyelashes, or the two cheeks of the same user, the
application system having in particular two applicator members that
are designed to be able to apply the composition to the two
predefined symmetric zones and are in particular disposed on either
side of the support.
10. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the positioning
system has at least one secondary support configured to be
positioned on at least one secondary zone of the user's body, other
than the supporting zone, in particular on the temples or the ears
when the supporting zone is the root of the nose, or vice
versa.
11. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the connecting member
has an arm, in particular an arm that is articulated relative to
the support.
12. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the application
system has a plurality of applicator members.
13. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the application
system has at least one applicator member defining an application
surface that is intended to come into contact with the application
zone and has a shape that corresponds exactly thereto.
14. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the application
system is retractable, being configured to move forward or backward
toward the application zone, manually or automatically.
15. The device as claimed in claim 1, having a system for
correcting the position thereof, in particular for verifying the
horizontality thereof, comprising in particular an accelerometer,
an image analysis system for looking for the presence of a part of
the face, for example the eyes, or a spirit level.
16. The device as claimed in claim 1, which is designed to be held
on the nose or any other predefined zone of the head by
clamping.
17. A method for positioning an application device as claimed in
claim 1 with respect to an application zone of a user in order to
apply a cosmetic composition, in particular a makeup or care
composition, thereto, the device having a positioning system
comprising at least one support configured to be positioned on a
predefined supporting zone of the user's body and at least one
connecting member connected to an application system for the
composition, the support having a customized shape, adapted to said
supporting zone, and/or the connecting member having a customized
shape and/or dimensions, adapted to the morphology of the user, the
method comprising the following steps: a) said at least one support
is positioned on said predefined supporting zone, and b) said
connecting member is guided in movement relative to said supporting
zone, in particular along an imposed predefined trajectory, from
the position in step a), in order to bring the application system
into contact with said application zone.
18. The method as claimed in claim 17, wherein, when the support is
positioned on said supporting zone, the connecting member moves
with a single degree of freedom, in particular vertically,
horizontally or diagonally with respect to said support and/or to
the supporting zone.
19. The method as claimed in claim 17, wherein the movement of the
connecting member takes place manually or using an integrated
automatic mechanism, in particular a spring, a controllable
compressed-air piston, or a motor.
20. The method as claimed in claim 17, wherein, the application
system having two applicator members designed to be able to apply
the composition to two predefined symmetric zones, in particular
disposed on either side of the support, the two applicator members
are positioned automatically and identically.
21. The method as claimed in claim 17, wherein the predefined
supporting zone is an ear, a part of the head, in particular the
temples, a part of the nose, in particular the nostrils or the root
of the nose, or the chin.
22. A method for manufacturing a device for applying a cosmetic
composition to an application zone of a user, as claimed in claim
1, having a positioning system comprising at least one support
configured to be positioned on a predefined supporting zone of the
user's body and at least one connecting member connected to an
application system for the composition, the method comprising the
following steps: a) topographical data of at least a part of the
user's face or body comprising at least the supporting zone and/or
the application zone are acquired, and b) the support and/or the
connecting member are produced on the basis of the topographical
data thus acquired in order that the support has a customized
shape, adapted to said supporting zone, and/or that the connecting
member has a personalized shape and/or dimensions, adapted to the
morphology of the user.
23. The manufacturing method as claimed in claim 22, wherein the
spacing between the support and the part of the connecting member
carrying the application system is chosen on the basis at least of
the distance between the supporting zone and the application
zone.
24. A method for the cosmetic treatment of an application zone of a
user, in particular for makeup application or care, comprising the
application of a cosmetic composition to said zone with the aid of
an application system of an application device positioned with
respect to said application zone by the positioning method as
claimed in claim 17.
25. The method as claimed in claim 24, wherein several successive
cosmetic treatments are carried out by modifying the position of
the application system between two treatments, without removing the
device from the supporting zone.
26. A cosmetic kit having a device as claimed in claim 1 and a
plurality of application systems, which can be mounted
interchangeably on the device.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a device for applying a
cosmetic composition, in particular a makeup or care composition,
having a positioning system connected to an application system for
the composition. The invention also relates to methods for
positioning and for manufacturing such a device and cosmetic
treatment methods, in particular for applying makeup, using
same.
PRIOR ART
[0002] Many people apply makeup to their face, in particular the
eyelids, eyelashes or eyebrows, in order to enhance their physical
appearance, trying to be as attractive and original as
possible.
[0003] People with impaired vision may encounter difficulties in
living their professional and social lives. Like everyone else,
they need to come into contact with other people and therefore
desire to present an appearance that looks good. Moreover, for some
of them, it is important to be able to present themselves without
others being able to identify their vision problem. Therefore,
people with impaired vision may feel an increased need to make
themselves up for social interactions.
[0004] Applying makeup with impaired vision is especially difficult
in the case of the eyelids, the eyebrows and the lips, zones in
which a fairly distinct color needs to be applied compared with the
color of the skin, in a manner located perfectly correctly, in
particular such that the color does not pass beyond the zone. Even
with a small locating error, for example an error of 3 mm in the
eyebrow or eyelid zone, the resultant error is visible, in
particular in the case of a fairly distinct makeup color.
[0005] The problem is less significant, but still present, in the
case of makeup on the rest of the face, for which less distinct
colors are used, resulting in application errors that are less
visible even though they exist.
[0006] Some people are reluctant to make themselves up or to
present themselves in public. One solution consists in using a
third party, such as a friend. However, this approach is not
practical and difficult to put into practice daily.
[0007] Applicators for obtaining a complex and precise makeup
result with one action are known, and are described in particular
in the applications FR 3 072 546, WO 2019/077129 and WO
2019/077131. These applicators, which employ a surface tailor-made
for the morphology of the person, are suitable for making up the
lips, since the movement of the hand toward the mouth is
instinctive. Thus, the result is rarely botched, even with impaired
vision. By contrast, this type of applicator is not suitable for
making up the eyelids, the eyebrows and even the cheeks, since it
results in a high error rate. This is caused by incorrect
positioning of the hand during application. Moreover, the
left/right symmetry required for these zones increases the
difficulty, which also rises when there is a desire to use several
colors.
[0008] The application US 2016/000208 describes a makeup applicator
for foundation, comprising a complete 3D mask of the face, an
adhesive layer and a layer of composition for transferring the
product. This mask is of limited and not very easy use since, for
the one part, it is intended for making up the entire face and, for
the other part, it requires a uniform layer of composition.
[0009] Therefore, no solution exists for users with impaired vision
for satisfactorily applying makeup in a simple, autonomous and
reliable manner, in particular to mutually symmetric zones of the
face.
[0010] Moreover, the application of product to zones that are not
visible, in particular zones of the scalp or of the back, directly
or with the aid of a mirror is complex, in particular if it is
necessary to be precise in order to achieve an aesthetically
pleasing result. Some people are successful but not satisfied and
wonder whether the application has been carried out correctly or
not.
[0011] It is possible to make use of a third party, or even a
professional, but this is not generally realistic in practice, in
particular when the frequency of the treatment is high, for example
daily.
[0012] Research has been carried out to improve the wear property
of the products, in particular products for treating the scalp or
the skin of the back, and therefore to reduce the frequency of
application thereof, in order to make application by a third party
more realistic. However, the results are disappointing. This is
attributable to the fact that the treated zone that is not visible,
for example the scalp, the head hair, or the back, can be subjected
to rubbing, in particular on bed linen, or on clothing, resulting
in accelerated disappearance of the product applied and the risk of
staining sheets and/or clothing.
[0013] The user can use their fingers to locate the zone to be
treated when the latter is able to be detected by touch, and then
apply the composition. However, this operation requires one hand to
touch the body in order to detect, blind, the zone to be treated,
while the other hand applies the composition. Without a visual
check, the application is imprecise and often leads to an
approximate result with errors, overlaps and forgotten zones.
[0014] Very sophisticated robots exist that make it possible to
pick up and position hair grafts, but this type of solution, which
is very expensive and bulky, is conceivable only for extensive
treatments. Therefore, there is no satisfactory solution for
effectively treating, in an autonomous manner, zones of the body
that are not visible.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
[0015] Consequently, there is a need to make it even easier to
apply makeup to and care for human keratin materials, in particular
to easily achieve complex makeup results with precision, or to make
up a poorly accessibly zone of the body in an autonomous
manner.
[0016] The present invention aims in particular to meet this
need.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] Therefore, a subject of the invention is a device for
applying a cosmetic composition, in particular a makeup or care
composition, to an application zone of a user, having a positioning
system comprising at least one support configured to be positioned
on a predefined supporting zone of the user's body and at least one
connecting member connected to an application system for the
composition, the support having a customized shape, adapted to said
supporting zone, and/or the connecting member having a customized
shape and/or dimensions, adapted to the morphology of the user, the
device being configured to guide the connecting member, in
particular to impose a predefined trajectory on said connecting
member, when the latter is moved relative to said supporting zone
from a position in which the support is positioned on said zone, in
order to bring the application system into contact with said
application zone.
[0018] The device according to the invention therefore provides a
solution to the problem of positioning applicators, ensuring that
the application system is positioned correctly at the time of
contact with the skin. The support uses a geometric reference
system to allow the application system to be positioned properly.
The support can be positioned, in particular on a part of the head,
in a secure and repeatable manner, without hesitation, to obtained
a controlled effect.
[0019] The invention makes it possible to help not only users with
impaired vision, but also others, to apply their makeup, since it
makes it possible to increase the precision of makeup application,
paving the way for complex makeup results which, if they had been
produced using the known methods, would have proved to be
positioned insufficiently precisely, and/or to be asymmetric, and
therefore less aesthetically pleasing.
[0020] With the device according to the invention, it is possible,
if desired, to obtain a symmetric makeup result, in particular in
the case of making up symmetric zones of the face, such as the
eyes, the cheeks, or the eyebrows.
[0021] In addition, the invention affords a simple, inexpensive and
effective means of assisting users in a self-application exercise.
Sustained visual attention for keeping the device in its correct
position is not necessary,
[0022] The application zone is a zone of human keratin materials,
namely the skin, including the scalp, lips, nails, head hair,
eyelashes and eyebrows.
[0023] The invention is suitable very particularly for making up
the eyes, in particular the eyelids, bags under the eyes, eyebrows
or eyelashes, for making up the cheeks or lips, or for the cosmetic
treatment of the scalp or back.
[0024] Positioning System
[0025] The guidance of the connecting member makes it possible to
bring the application system either precisely into its application
position, by virtue of the precision of guidance and the
positioning of the support, or into the vicinity of the application
position, final adjustment then being necessary. This final
adjustment can be effected with the aid of a camera; in this case,
approximate guidance of the connecting member may be
sufficient.
[0026] Preferably, the support is configured to be positioned on a
supporting zone other than the application zone, in particular the
root of the nose, the temples or the ears, for application to the
eyelids or eyebrows.
[0027] The supporting zone may be an ear, a part of the head, in
particular the temples, a part of the nose, in particular the
nostrils or the root of the nose, or the chin. This zone is thus
advantageously a zone that is easy for a person with impaired
vision to identify. The shape of the support is chosen such that it
cannot normally be positioned comfortably elsewhere or in some
other way.
[0028] Preferably, the support has a customized shape, adapted to
said supporting zone, and the connecting member of the positioning
system has a customized shape and/or dimensions, adapted to the
morphology of the user.
[0029] The support and/or the connecting member are advantageously
produced on the basis of an acquisition of the topography of at
least a part of the face or of the user's body comprising at least
the supporting zone and/or the predefined application zone, in
particular by way of a 3D scan or following a test session. This
acquisition makes it possible in particular to know the distance
between the supporting zone(s) and the application zone(s).
[0030] In this case, at least a part of the support and of the
connecting member may be produced by machining a preform or by
additive manufacturing, in particular by 3D printing. In one
variant, a mold used for manufacturing at least a part of the
support and of the connecting member is advantageously produced by
machining a preform or by additive manufacturing, in particular by
3D printing.
[0031] In order to carry out the 3D scan, it is possible to use any
3D scanner capable of capturing the volume and the dimensions of
the zone in question. The 3D scan is advantageously a scan produced
by projecting fringes of light, but any other means for generating
structured light can be used.
[0032] A file that is readable by a CNC machine or by a 3D printer
is advantageously generated, said file being able to be saved, in
particular automatically, for example in the cloud or on a central
server.
[0033] A translated digital copy of a surface, possibly a reworked
surface, obtained from the acquisition of the topography is
advantageously created.
[0034] The support can be adapted to the narrowest point of the
supporting zone, in particular in the case of the temples, the
nostrils or the chin, such that it can only be positioned at this
point.
[0035] When the supporting zone is the nose, the support of the
positioning system may be in the shape of a U, the width of which
is approximately that of the nose such that the support fits
without leaving too large a space between itself and the skin, and
also without excessively clamping the nose so as to allow it to be
moved without forcing or injuring the skin.
[0036] In one variant, the device is in the form of goggles, which
are configured to be pushed toward the eyes from a position A to a
position B along the nose until they have reached the right
position. In further variants, the device is in the form of a cap,
or of a visor, in particular produced so as to be able to be
rotated from the user's forehead.
[0037] The connecting member may have a part that is movable or
deformable with respect to the support, being able in particular to
move vertically, horizontally or diagonally with respect to the
support and/or to the supporting zone, in particular in rotation or
translation.
[0038] Said connecting member may be plastically or elastically
deformable, in particular under pressure exerted by one or more
fingers, being able to result in spacing apart of the device,
and/or have a sliding and/or rotary part in order to change its
position with respect to the support. The connecting member is
advantageously tailor-made in order that, once the support has been
positioned, the application system does not come into contact with
the skin and, once the system has been moved, the application
system comes into contact with the zones to be made up.
[0039] In one particular embodiment of the invention, the
connecting member is a flexible bow, and the support has two
opposite parts, each of which is positioned on a supporting zone,
in particular a temple of the user. The connecting member can then
be pushed from a position A to a position B, spacing apart the two
parts of the support and moving the application system toward the
application zone, for example the eyebrows or eyelids. Said bow may
be put into extension in order to space apart the two parts of the
support before positioning them on their supporting zone, in order
to make it easier to position the device.
[0040] In one variant, the connecting member being a stem
connecting two opposite parts of the support, each of which is
positioned on a supporting zone, for example a temple, the device
has cams attached to said opposite parts of the support so as to
move the connecting member toward the application zone, once the
device has been positioned correctly, in order that the application
system comes into contact with said application zone, in particular
a zone of the user's eyes, for example the eyebrows or eyelids. A
pressure exerted by the user on the connecting member turns the
cams and allows the connecting member to move until the applicator
member comes into contact with the application zone.
[0041] In one variant, the device has one or more springs
configured to allow the connecting member to move.
[0042] In one variant or in combination, at least a part of the
support is movable with respect to the supporting zone, being able
in particular to move vertically, horizontally or diagonally with
respect thereto, in particular being guided in its movement by the
nose.
[0043] The device according to the invention can be configured to
be used on two predefined symmetric zones in order to achieve a
symmetric makeup result, in particular on the two eyelids, the two
lines of eyebrows or of eyelashes, or the two cheeks of the same
user. The application system may have two applicator members
designed to be able to apply the composition to two predefined
symmetric zones of keratin materials, the two applicator members
being in particular disposed on either side of the support. The
application to the two zones can then be realized with a single
movement.
[0044] In this case, the connecting member of the positioning
system advantageously has a customized shape and/or dimensions,
adapted to the morphology of the user, and chosen such that the two
applicator members are positioned ideally with respect to the
support(s).
[0045] The positioning system may have at least one secondary
support configured to be positioned on at least one secondary zone
of the user's body, other than the supporting zone, in particular
on the temples or the ears when the supporting zone is the root of
the nose, or vice versa. This ensures better positioning from the
outset, and perfect horizontally, using, for this purpose, the
tactile sensations that tell the user about the position of the
device.
[0046] The secondary support(s) can remain fixed during the
movement of the application system. To this end, the user can use
one hand to press the secondary support(s), the other hand being
used to shift the system. The secondary support(s) can be equipped
with a fixing means, for example a jaw, in particular a pneumatic
jaw, which is tightened and released automatically, a screw, or a
tightening handle, for locking the secondary support during the
movement of the connecting member.
[0047] The device may have a system for correcting the position
thereof, in particular for verifying the horizontality thereof,
comprising in particular an accelerometer, an image analysis system
for looking for the presence of a part of the face, for example the
eyes, comprising for example a camera, or a spirit level, in order
to help the user to properly position the device according to the
invention. The system can be configured to alert the user when the
correct position has been reached, by way of a visual, audible or
vibratory signal, with or without an indication for guiding
them.
[0048] The device may also have a system for balancing the
horizontality thereof, using in particular the movement of a weight
from one point to another of the device, in particular of the
connecting member. Thus, when the user feels the centre of gravity
of the device move, they instinctively have the reflex to change
the position thereof.
[0049] The positioning system may have a pressure sensor for
informing the user about the position of the support. Thus, if a
pressure is detected by said sensor, the system can send a warning,
in particular an audible warning, prompting the user to shift the
system until the pressure detected drops to a minimum. This
situation is then detected by said sensor, which indicates to the
user that it is no longer necessary to move the system.
[0050] The device may have at least one locking element for
blocking the application system in a given position relative to the
support and/or to the connecting member.
[0051] The device is advantageously designed to be held on the nose
or any other predefined zone of the head by clamping. In one
variant, a fixing member, such as a strap, is used to hold the
device in place.
[0052] Articulated Arm
[0053] In one embodiment of the invention, the connecting member
has an arm, in particular an arm that is articulated relative to
the support.
[0054] Once the support has been positioned on the supporting zone,
it is possible to actuate a mechanism, connected to the support,
which moves the arm and allows the application system to reach the
application zone without failure.
[0055] The arm of the connecting member may have a deformable part,
or a set of articulations or ball joints, or cables and/or springs
that pull on the arm in one or more directions in order to move
it.
[0056] The device may also have a camera, disposed in particular in
the region of the application system, helping to tell the position
thereof, via information transmitted to an electronic system. The
camera is advantageously configured to identify hair loss gaps to
be filled, in particular through the detection of a difference in
color on the head. The system can send a signal, in particular an
audible or visual signal, to the user and/or to the application
system in order to inform them/it when the desired position has
been reached.
[0057] The application system can also be moved through a
predefined orientation angle with respect to the support before
application, the device sending in particular a signal, in
particular an audible or visual signal, to the user and/or to the
application system in order to inform them/it when the desired
orientation angle has been reached. This makes it possible to have
the best application result on the zone to be treated.
[0058] This embodiment is particularly suitable for reaching zones
that are not visible, in order in particular to fill hair loss
gaps, abrasions on the scalp or back, to selectively color zones of
depigmented hair, to locally treat pigmentation spots on the head
of bald people who are continually exposed to the sun, to apply
makeup artistically, by way of a design, a pattern, text for
example, to the hair or the head at a very precise location, or to
apply an antidandruff serum or a hair regrowth product at specific
locations on the scalp.
[0059] This embodiment can also be employed to treat visible zones,
in particular when there are problems of poor eyesight or of
dexterity.
[0060] Application System
[0061] The application system has at least one applicator
member.
[0062] The applicator member may be an impregnated pad, a spray or
printing device, a sponge or a foam, for example passing all the
way through and fed by a piston pushing the composition, or a block
of composition or a flocked applicator, a fine brush, a brush or
any other application means, impregnated with composition, such as
a powder puff, in particular made of sponge.
[0063] The application system may have several applicator members,
mounted in a fixed or removable manner. In the latter case, the
possibility of separating the application members from the device
makes it possible to spread or position the composition and to
change the applicator member as per the desired makeup result. The
distance between the positioning system and the applicator
member(s) can also be modified and/or adjusted.
[0064] The device according to the invention may have an element
for identifying the applicator member used, based in particular on
a numeric code, thereby making it possible for the device to take
account thereof while it is being positioned and during the
application of the composition.
[0065] The application system may have a stencil and an applicator
member, the former delimiting an area to which the composition
needs to be applied by the applicator member.
[0066] The application system may have a tool for modifying a
composition that has already been deposited, for example a sponge,
a rotating brush or a brush that moves in some other way.
[0067] The application system may have an applicator member and a
modification tool, the former being used for application and then
the latter giving a particular effect, in particular a blending
effect.
[0068] The application system may have a stencil and a modification
tool, the composition being applied by hand, the stencil being used
to delimit an area and then the modification tool giving a
particular effect, in particular a blending effect.
[0069] The application system may have an applicator member, a
stencil for delimiting an area, and a modification tool for giving
a particular effect, in particular a blending effect.
[0070] The application system may be retractable, being configured
to move forward or backward toward the application zone, manually
or automatically. This embodiment is particularly advantageous for
making up the eyelashes of visually impaired people.
[0071] In one particular embodiment of the invention, the device
has an element for detecting contact with the zone of keratin
materials to be made up, in particular a pressure sensor or an
electrical resistance sensor. In this case, when the applicator
member is correctly positioned and in contact with the zone, the
device can propose the application of the composition to the user,
and can be activated following agreement by the latter, or
automatically apply the composition immediately after detecting
contact or after a few seconds. The element for detecting contact
can also be configured to inform the user if each point of the
applicator member of the application system has been in contact
with all of the predefined application zone. If contact is
imperfect, the user can prolong contact.
[0072] In the case of makeup application to the eyelids, the device
can have an element for detecting the opening or closing of the
eyelid in order to control, prevent or enable, or initiate, the
application of the composition.
[0073] In one particular embodiment of the invention, the device is
configured so as to make it possible to change the applicator
members. Thus, depending on their desires, the user can choose one
makeup effect or another.
[0074] The applicator member can define an application surface that
is intended to come into contact with the predefined application
zone and has a shape corresponding exactly to that of said zone,
corresponding in particular exactly to the shape of the zone of
keratin materials of the user to be made up. In this case, at least
one part of the applicator member having the application surface is
advantageously produced on the basis of an acquisition of the
topography of at least a part of said zone, in particular by way of
a 3D scan. This makes it possible to obtain a morphological,
customized, and tailor-made application surface.
[0075] In this case, at least a part of the applicator member
having the application surface may be produced by machining a
preform or by additive manufacturing, in particular by 3D printing.
In one variant, a mold used for manufacturing at least a part of
the applicator member having the application surface is
advantageously produced by machining a preform or by additive
manufacturing, in particular by 3D printing.
[0076] The method may include a preliminary step of creating an
imprint. The latter may in particular be created by direct molding
of the zone to be made up or indirectly on the basis of such
molding, for example with the aid of an intermediate mold.
[0077] In order to carry out the 3D scan, it is possible to use any
3D scanner capable of capturing the volume and the dimensions of
the zone in question. The 3D scan is advantageously a scan produced
by projecting fringes of light, but any other means for generating
structured light can be used.
[0078] A file that is readable by a CNC machine or by a 3D printer
is advantageously generated, said file being able to be saved, in
particular automatically, for example in the cloud or on a central
server.
[0079] A translated digital copy of a surface, possibly a reworked
surface, obtained from the 3D scan, is advantageously created, and
then a smoothed volume of the part of the applicator member having
the application surface or of the mold between said surface and the
translated copy thereof may be generated.
[0080] The application system may have a stencil having a contour
corresponding exactly to that of said zone, corresponding in
particular exactly to the contour of a zone of the keratin
materials of a given user.
[0081] Said application system may have a flexible support defining
a, preferably continuous, application surface intended to receive
the cosmetic composition, and at least two elements that are
movable with respect to one another and are connected to the
support, such that a relative movement of these two elements brings
about a mechanical stress on the support and causes the latter to
deform between a configuration A for picking up the cosmetic
composition and an application configuration B.
[0082] In particular, in the first configuration of the support,
the application surface is substantially flat, thus allowing it to
be brought into contact with a flat color tint or a transferable
pattern, in particular a layer of powder, in particular a printed
layer of powder. In the second configuration of the support, the
application surface is preferably curved. In this configuration,
the application surface can have a shape that is convex or concave
toward the outside, having in particular a shape suitable for the
application of the cosmetic composition to an eyelid.
[0083] Composition
[0084] The composition may be in the form of a liquid or solid, for
example in the form of a, free or compact, powder or in the form of
a block of composition.
[0085] The composition may be a mascara, a lipstick, an eyeshadow,
a foundation, a concealer, or a blusher. The composition may be
intended to make up the zone by changing the color thereof, or by
modifying the appearance of the zone without changing the color
thereof.
[0086] The cosmetic composition may be in the form of a
transferable print, forming in particular a pattern, of a single
color or of several colors.
[0087] The cosmetic composition may be a makeup product, a product
for coloring or treating the hair or scalp, in particular an
adhesive composition for helping to fill a hair loss zone, caused
for example by alopecia.
[0088] Positioning Method
[0089] A further subject of the invention, according to another of
its aspects, is a method for positioning an application device
according to the invention with respect to an application zone of a
user in order to apply a cosmetic composition, in particular a
makeup or care composition, thereto, the device having a
positioning system comprising at least one support configured to be
positioned on a predefined supporting zone of the user's body and
at least one connecting member connected to an application system
for the composition, the support having a customized shape, adapted
to said supporting zone, and/or the connecting member having a
customized shape and/or dimensions, adapted to the morphology of
the user, the method comprising the following steps:
[0090] a) said at least one support is positioned on said
predefined supporting zone, and
[0091] b) said connecting member is guided in movement relative to
said supporting zone, in particular along an imposed predefined
trajectory, from the position in step a), in order to bring the
application system into contact with said application zone.
[0092] When the support is positioned on said supporting zone, the
connecting member can move with a single degree of freedom, in
particular vertically, horizontally or diagonally with respect to
said support and/or to the supporting zone.
[0093] In one variant, in particular when the connecting member is
an arm, in particular an articulated arm, the connecting member can
move with at least two degrees of freedom, preferably with a
maximum of three degrees of freedom, in particular vertically,
horizontally or diagonally with respect to said support and/or to
the supporting zone.
[0094] The movement of the connecting member may take place
manually or using an integrated automatic mechanism, in particular
a spring, a controllable compressed-air piston, or a motor.
[0095] When the application system has two applicator members
designed to be able to apply the composition to two predefined
symmetric zones, in particular disposed on either side of the
support, the two applicator members are advantageously positioned
automatically and identically.
[0096] The predefined supporting zone may be an ear, a part of the
head, in particular the temples, a part of the nose, in particular
the nostrils or the root of the nose, or the chin.
[0097] All the steps in the positioning method according to the
invention can be implemented automatically by an electronic system,
preferably comprising at least one microcontroller and a memory.
Said electronic system may be part of the device according to the
invention, or may be connected thereto physically and/or via a data
exchange network, being in particular in this case a personal
computer, a compute server, an advanced mobile telephone, also
known as a "smartphone", or a tablet computer.
[0098] Said electronic system may be disposed at the height of the
user's gaze, making it possible to rectify the position of the
support and/or of the application system, by way of an audible
warning or video feedback. The position of the support and/or of
the application system can be rectified automatically by the device
itself.
[0099] The features mentioned above for the device apply to the
positioning method, and vice versa.
[0100] Manufacturing Method
[0101] A further subject of the invention, according to another of
its aspects, is a method for manufacturing a device for applying a
cosmetic composition to an application zone of a user, according to
the invention, having a positioning system comprising at least one
support configured to be positioned on a predefined supporting zone
of the user's body and at least one connecting member connected to
an application system for the composition, the method comprising
the following steps:
[0102] a) topographical data of at least a part of the user's face
or body comprising at least the predefined supporting zone and/or
the predefined application zone are acquired, and
[0103] b) the support and/or the connecting member are produced on
the basis of the topographical data thus acquired in order that the
support has a customized shape, adapted to said supporting zone,
and/or that the connecting member has a personalized shape and/or
dimensions, adapted to the morphology of the user.
[0104] Preferably, the support is manufactured with a customized
shape adapted to the supporting zone on the basis of said
topographical data.
[0105] The spacing between the support and the part of the
connecting member carrying the application system may be chosen on
the basis at least of the distance between the supporting zone and
the application zone.
[0106] In the case in which the application system has an
applicator member defining an application surface intended to come
into contact with the predefined zone, at least one part of the
applicator member having the application surface is advantageously
produced on the basis of an acquisition of the topography of at
least a part of said zone, in particular by way of a 3D scan.
[0107] The features mentioned above for the device and the
positioning method apply to the manufacturing method, and vice
versa.
[0108] Cosmetic Treatment Method
[0109] A further subject of the invention, according to another of
its aspects, is a method for the cosmetic treatment of an
application zone of a user, in particular for makeup application or
care, comprising the application of a cosmetic composition to said
zone with the aid of an application system of an application device
positioned with respect to said application zone by the positioning
method according to the invention.
[0110] Several successive cosmetic treatments may be carried out by
modifying the position of the application system between two
treatments, without removing the device from the supporting
zone.
[0111] In one exemplary embodiment, in which the composition is in
the form of a print with a predefined pattern, the method may
include a step of a user choosing and/or creating the pattern and a
step of information relating to this pattern being transmitted by
means of a machine connected to at least one printer that produces
the print.
[0112] The machine may be a computer, an advanced mobile telephone,
also known as a "smartphone", or a tablet computer. The machine may
be connected to said printer physically and/or by way of a data
exchange network.
[0113] The features mentioned above for the device and the
positioning and manufacturing methods apply to the cosmetic
treatment method, and vice versa.
[0114] Cosmetic Kit
[0115] A further subject of the invention, according to another of
its aspects, is a cosmetic kit having a device according to the
invention and a plurality of application systems, which can be
mounted interchangeably on the device.
[0116] The features mentioned above for the device and the
positioning, manufacturing and cosmetic treatment methods apply to
the kit, and vice versa.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0117] The invention may be understood better from reading the
following detailed description of nonlimiting implementation
examples thereof and from studying the appended drawing, in
which:
[0118] FIG. 1 shows an example of a device for applying a cosmetic
composition according to the invention in two different
positions,
[0119] FIG. 2 shows a variant application device according to the
invention,
[0120] FIG. 3 shows an example of a positioning system of a device
according to the invention, on its own and in a top view,
[0121] FIGS. 4 to 5 illustrate variants of the positioning system
in FIG. 3,
[0122] FIGS. 6 to 8 show different examples of a device for
applying a cosmetic composition according to the invention,
[0123] FIG. 9 shows an example of a system for balancing the
horizontality of the device according to the invention,
[0124] FIG. 10 shows a variant application device according to the
invention,
[0125] FIG. 11 shows a variant application device according to the
invention,
[0126] FIG. 12 shows an example of the operation of the device in
FIG. 11,
[0127] FIG. 13 illustrates a first implementation example of the
invention,
[0128] FIG. 14 illustrates a second implementation example of the
invention,
[0129] FIG. 15 illustrates a third implementation example of the
invention, and
[0130] FIG. 16 illustrates a fourth implementation example of the
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0131] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a device 1 for applying a
cosmetic composition C to an application zone P of a user according
to the invention. In this example, the device 1 has a positioning
system 2 comprising a support 4 and a connecting member 5 connected
to an application system 3 for the composition C, which has two
applicator members 3a and 3b disposed on either of the support 4
and designed to be able to apply the composition to two predefined
symmetric zones, in this example the eyelids.
[0132] As can be seen in FIG. 1(a), the support 4 is configured to
be positioned on the top of the user's nostrils, and has a
customized shape, adapted to this supporting zone Z. The connecting
member 5, for its part, has customized dimensions, adapted to the
morphology of the user. The configuration of the assembly of the
device 1 imposes a predefined trajectory on the connecting member 5
when the latter is moved relative to the supporting zone Z, from
the position in which the support 4 is positioned on said zone. In
the example described, the connecting member is moved diagonally by
the user, following the ridge of the nose from the top of the
nostrils toward the eyes, in order to bring the application system
3 into contact with the eyelids P for the application of the
composition C, as can be seen in FIG. 1(b). In this case, the
support 4 leaves the supporting zone Z during the movement of the
connecting member 5, and the two applicator members 3a and 3b are
brought into contact with the eyelids automatically and
identically.
[0133] In a variant shown in FIG. 2, the support 4 is positioned on
the chin Z, and the connecting member 5 is moved horizontally
toward the user's eyes, in order to apply the composition C to the
eyelids P. In this example, the support is fixed and remains
positioned on the supporting zone Z during the movement of the
connecting member 5.
[0134] In another variant, shown in FIG. 3, the support 4 has two
opposite parts 4a, 4b, each of which is positioned on a temple Z of
the user. The connecting member 5 is a stem connecting the two
parts 4a, 4b of the support. Cams 6 attached to said parts 4a and
4b make it possible to move the connecting member 5 toward the
user's eyes, once the device has been positioned correctly, in
order that the application system (not shown) come into contact
with a zone of the user's eyes, for example the eyebrows or
eyelids.
[0135] In the variant in FIG. 4, the connecting member 5 is
elastically deformable, being a flexible bow. The support 4 has two
opposite parts 4a, 4b, each of which is intended to be positioned
on a temple Z of the user, and the connecting member 5 can be
pushed from a position A to a position B, spacing apart the two
parts of the support 4 and moving the application system (not
shown) toward the application zone, for example the eyebrows or
eyelids.
[0136] FIG. 5(a) shows a positioning system 2 similar to the one in
the embodiment in FIG. 4, in which the support is adapted to the
narrowest point of the supporting zone Z, in this example the
temples, such that the user can only position it at this point. In
the variant in FIG. 5(b), the connecting member 5 is a flexible bow
that can be put into extension in order to space apart the two
parts of the support before positioning them on the temples Z.
[0137] As shown in FIG. 6, the positioning system 2 can have a
secondary support 8 configured to be positioned on at least one
secondary zone of the user's body, other than the supporting zone.
In this example, the secondary support 8 is configured to be
positioned on the temples, while the support 4 is configured to be
positioned on the nose. This secondary support on the temples makes
it possible to ensure better positioning and perfect horizontality.
In the example described, the connecting member 5 moves diagonally
along the nose of the user in order that the application system 3
come into contact with their eyelids.
[0138] In the variant in FIG. 7, the positioning system 2 also has
a secondary support 8 configured to be positioned on the temples,
and a support 4 configured to be positioned on the top of the nose.
In this example, the support 4 is in the shape of U, the width of
which is approximately that of the top of the user's nose.
[0139] The device in FIG. 8 has a positioning system 2 comprising a
support 4 configured to be positioned on the user's temples Z, and
a secondary support 8 configured to be positioned on their nose.
This secondary support is provided with a jaw 9, making it possible
for it to be locked on the nose during the movement of the
connecting member 5 toward the user's eyes.
[0140] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a device 1 according to the
invention having a system 11 for balancing its horizontality, using
the movement of a weight 12 that is movable from one point of the
connecting member 5 to another via a band 13 driven by a freely
rotating pulley 14 disposed in the region of a first applicator
member 3a of the application system 3 and a stepper motor 15
disposed in the region of the second applicator member 3b. Thus,
when the user feels the centre of gravity of the device 1 move,
they instinctively have the reflex to change the position thereof.
In this example, the device 1 also has an accelerometer 19,
disposed in the region of the second applicator member 3b, for
helping to correct the position of the device, controlling the
motor 15 via a control device in order that it positions the weight
12 at the desired point.
[0141] In the variant in FIG. 10, the application system 3 is
retractable, being configured to move forward or backward toward
the application zone P, manually or automatically. This embodiment
is particularly advantageous for making up the eyelashes P. As can
be seen in FIG. 10(a), the user positions the device 1 so as to
place the support on the supporting zone, in this example the nose,
with the application member in the retracted position. The
connecting member 5 is moved along the nose toward the eyes, with
the applicator member still folded, as can be seen in FIG. 10(b).
Once the application system has been correctly positioned, the
applicator member is deployed in order to apply the composition to
the eyelashes P, as can be seen in FIG. 10(c). Once the application
has been carried out, the device 1 is then moved in the opposite
direction, as shown in FIG. 10(d).
[0142] In one particular embodiment of the invention that is
illustrated in FIG. 11, the connecting member has an arm 10,
connecting an application system 3 to a support 4, via a hinge 18.
This device is particularly effective for treated zones that are
not visible, such as the scalp at the rear of the head. In this
example, the support 4 is intended to be positioned on the zone
between the two eyes of the user, at the base of the nose and the
forehead. The arm 10 is then pivoted toward the rear relative to
the support 4 in order to bring the end loaded with composition
into contact with the skin of the head. Such a device is used in
particular to treat a zone of a user's scalp, in particular by
applying an adhesive composition for filling hair loss gaps caused
by alopecia, or for applying a hair coloring or haircare
product.
[0143] In the variant in FIG. 12, the arm 10 is articulated and
motor-driven, and a camera 16, disposed in the region of the
application system 3, helps to tell the position thereof, via
information transmitted to an electronic system 17, in order to
adjust the position of the application system 3 and to correctly
treat the desired application zone. The camera 16 is advantageously
configured to identify hair loss gaps to be filled by the
application of an adhesive composition. The electronic system 17
can send a signal, in particular an audible or visual signal, to
the user and/or to the application system 3 in order to inform
them/it when the desired position has been reached.
Example 1
[0144] An example of making up the eyelids with the aid of a device
1 according to the invention will now be described with reference
to FIGS. 13(a) and 13(b).
[0145] In this example, the positioning system 2 used is the one in
FIG. 5. In order to produce the latter, topographical data of a
part of the user's head comprising the supporting zone, namely the
temples, and the application zone have been acquired, via a 3D
scan. The distance between the two temples and that between the
centre of each eye on the horizontal axis between the two eyes have
been measured in order to produce the support and the connecting
member in a customized manner. In the example in question, the
connecting member 5 is a plastics stem bent into a circular arc,
and the support has two identical end pieces 4a and 4b fixed to the
two ends of the connecting member 5 by brackets 23. The applicator
members are formed by foams, which are disposed on plastics
supports and are adapted to the morphology of the user's eyelids,
as described above.
[0146] In order to use the device, a user with impaired vision can
identify the position of the two applicator members by virtue of
the sense of touch, in order to put on each of them a foam pad
containing a composition, which is then transferred to the two
applicator members. The user then places the device 1 on their face
such that the supports are situated on their temples. They can
swing the device downward in order to identify the moment at which
the pressure on the temples is at a minimum. The user then closes
their eyelids and manually applies a pressure at the centre,
maintaining it until the two applicator members come into contact
with the skin of the eyelids. The user then removes the device and
is made up in a precise and symmetric manner.
Example 2
[0147] In the example illustrated in FIG. 14, the device 1
according to the invention is in the form of goggles, and has a
support 4 intended to rest on the nostrils, and secondary supports
8 formed by the arms of the goggles, which are intended to be
positioned on the ears. The application system 3, disposed in the
region of an eye, has a reservoir 3c containing a cosmetic
composition C, and an applicator member in the form of a foam with
the inverse morphology of the shape of the user's eyelid. The
connecting member 5 connecting the supports 4 and 8 together and
connecting the supports to the application system is tailor-made,
as are the supports themselves, as described above.
[0148] Thus, it is instinctive for the user to position the device,
and, by being pushed toward the eyes upwardly along the nose, the
applicator member arrives easily and precisely in contact with the
left eyelid. The user then presses on the reservoir 3c of the
application system by squeezing the bottom of the reservoir with
their thumb, thereby making up the eyelid.
Example 3
[0149] In the example illustrated in FIG. 15, the device in FIG. 11
is used to treat a zone of a user's scalp, in particular for
alopecia, by applying an adhesive composition. The connecting
member has an arm 10, connecting an application system 3 to a
support 4, via a hinge 18, such that a single rotational movement
is possible between the support and the arm 10. The applicator
member is rigid and produced in the 3D shape of the zone to be
treated.
[0150] The support 4 is positioned on the supporting zone, between
the two eyes of the user, at the base of the nose and the forehead,
as can be seen in FIG. 15(a). The arm 10 is then pivoted toward the
rear relative to the support 4 in order to bring the end loaded
with composition into contact with the skin of the head, as can be
seen in FIG. 15(b).
Example 4
[0151] In the example illustrated in FIG. 16, the same device 1 as
in the previous example is used, also having a camera 16 fixed to
the application system 3, said camera 16 being connected to an
electronic system 17 by a wireless connection. The camera helps to
tell the user about the position of the application system, via
information transmitted to the electronic system, by detecting for
example differences in color indicating the start of a hair loss
zone. The connecting member 5 also has cables 21 that make it
possible to pull on the arm 10 via a stem 22 in order to move it to
the right or to the left in order to adjust the position of the
application system 3 and correctly treat the desired application
zone.
[0152] The invention is not limited to the examples that have just
been described.
[0153] Other types of supports, connecting members and application
systems can be used, as can other means for moving the connecting
member, if necessary.
* * * * *