COSMETIC POT HAVING A LID WITH A TRANSLATIONALLY MOVED COUPLING ELEMENT

Abstract

A cosmetic pot having a base provided with an indentation on the neck, and a lid configured to be fastened to the base. The lid includes a plate and a cap that are configured to pivot with respect to one another. The cap includes a radial cam for translationally moving at least one coupling element between a first position in which a claw of the at least one coupling element is engaged in the indentation with the lid in the rest position and the pot closed, and a second position in which the at least one coupling element has been translationally moved with respect to the first position. The lid also includes at least one coupling return element configured to automatically return the at least one coupling element to the first position.

Claims

1-9. (canceled)

10. A cosmetic pot comprising: a base comprising a neck provided with at least one peripheral indentation; and a lid configured to close the base, said lid comprising: an inside part comprising a coupling plate; and an outside part comprising a cap; the coupling plate and the cap being rotatably mounted in relation to each other, such that the lid is configured to adopt a resting position and an opening position and the coupling plate and the cap are turned in relation to each other in relation to the resting position; the cap comprising a radial cam, the radial cam being defined by a profile forming at least one projecting active zone; the coupling plate comprising: a support; at least one coupling member mounted on the support and movable in translation in relation to the support; the at least one coupling member comprising a claw and a cam follower, the cam follower being in contact with the radial cam of the cap; the at least one coupling member being configured to adopt at least a first position when the lid is in the resting position and a second position when the lid is in the opening position; the second position being a position in which the cam follower of the coupling member cooperates with the at least one projecting active zone of the radial cam and in which the at least one coupling member, in the second position, is configured to be translated in relation to the first position; and at least one coupling return member linked to the at least one coupling member and to the support, the at least one coupling return member being configured to automatically return the at least one coupling member to the first position; and the claw of the at least one coupling member of the lid being engaged in the at least one indentation of the neck of the base when the lid is in the resting position and the pot is closed.

11. A pot according to claim 10, wherein: the lid comprises a position return member; and the position return member is linked to the support of the coupling plate and is linked to the cap, such that the position return member is in a neutral configuration when the lid is in the resting position, and in a deformed configuration when the lid is in the opening position, such that the position return member is configured to induce a counter-rotation of the cap in relation to the coupling plate when the lid is in the opening position so as to bring the lid automatically back into the resting position.

12. A pot according to claim 11, wherein: the position return member is a blade held in a slot formed in the support of the coupling plate and also held in a slot formed in the cap.

13. A pot according to claim 10, wherein: the radial cam is a cam with an outside profile.

14. A pot according to claim 10, wherein: the at least one projecting active zone of the radial cam has a plane of symmetry such that the cap and the coupling plate of the lid are configured to turn in relation to each other in a clockwise or anticlockwise direction.

15. A pot according to claim 10, wherein: the lid comprises at least two coupling members movable in translation, each of the coupling members comprising a claw and a cam follower in contact with the radial cam of the cap; the cam comprises at least two projecting active zones; each of the coupling members is configured to adopt a first position when the lid is in the resting position and a second position when the lid is in the opening position; and the second position of each of the coupling members is a position in which the cam follower of each of the coupling members cooperates with a corresponding projecting active zone of the radial cam and in which each of the coupling members, in the second position, is translated in relation to the first position when the lid is in the opening position.

16. A pot according to claim 15, wherein: the lid comprises a single coupling return member configured to return at the same time each of the at least two coupling members automatically to the first position.

17. A pot according to claim 10, wherein: the base comprises at least one rib configured to keep the coupling plate of the lid oriented in relation to the base when the at least one coupling member is in the first position.

18. A pot according to claim 10, wherein: the at least one projecting active zone is configured to form a stable opening position.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0061] The invention, according to exemplary embodiments, will be well understood and its advantages will be clearer on reading the following detailed description, given by way of illustrative example that is in no way limiting, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0062] FIG. 1 shows a first exemplary embodiment of a cosmetic pot with a square contour that comprises a base and a lid that are aligned in relation to each other;

[0063] FIG. 2 presents the base of the pot of FIG. 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention, comprising a neck of circular shape;

[0064] FIG. 3 presents a coupling plate of the lid of FIG. 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0065] FIG. 4, composed of FIGS. 4a and 4b, presents an exploded view respectively from above and from below, of the coupling plate of FIG. 3;

[0066] FIG. 5 presents a first exemplary embodiment of a coupling member according to a first embodiment of the invention;

[0067] FIG. 6 presents a view of the inside, or from below, of a cap of the lid of FIG. 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention and which is adapted to cooperate with the coupling plate of FIGS. 3 and 4;

[0068] FIG. 7 presents an alternative embodiment of a radial cam of a cap;

[0069] FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-section view in perspective on a diagonal of the pot of FIG. 1;

[0070] FIG. 9 shows a cross-section view of the lid on the plane IX-IX of FIG. 8;

[0071] FIG. 10 presents a second exemplary embodiment of a cosmetic pot with a square contour which comprises a base and a lid aligned in relation to each other;

[0072] FIG. 11 presents the base of the pot of FIG. 10 according to a second embodiment of the present invention, comprising a neck of square shape;

[0073] FIG. 12 presents a perspective view of the pot of FIG. 10, open;

[0074] FIG. 13 presents a coupling plate and a cap of the lid of FIG. 10 according to a second embodiment of the present invention and separated from each other;

[0075] FIG. 14 presents an exploded view of the lid of the pot of FIG. 10;

[0076] FIG. 15 presents a coupling member according to a second embodiment of the invention;

[0077] FIG. 16 illustrates a cross-section view on the plane XVI shown diagrammatically in FIG. 17 of the lid of the pot of FIG. 10;

[0078] FIG. 17 presents a view from below of the lid of pot of FIG. 10 in resting position; and

[0079] FIG. 18 presents a view from below of the lid of pot of FIG. 10 in opening position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0080] Identical parts represented in the aforementioned Figures are identified by identical numerical references.

[0081] The present description is given with reference to a pot of square contour but the invention embraces a pot of circular or arbitrary contour, as well.

[0082] As a matter of fact, traditionally, a cosmetic pot 1 has a contour that is round, or substantially square, like that represented in FIG. 1.

[0083] The pot 1 comprises a base 2 and a lid 3 enabling the pot 1 to be opened or closed.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 2, the base 2 comprises a container 200 and a neck 201 which surmounts the container 200. The neck defines an opening which enables access to a product contained in the container 200. The dimensions of the neck and of the opening are in the vicinity of the cross-section dimensions of the base. Whatever the case, the opening of the pot is sufficiently wide to enable the passage of at least one finger of one hand, that is to say that it has a transverse cross-section dimension greater than or equal to approximately 25 millimeters.

[0085] The neck 201 here comprises one indentation 202 and one peripheral rim 204. In a particular embodiment, an upper part of the rim 204 is rounded or beveled to create a ramp effect if a member is moved vertically against the neck. In this exemplary embodiment, the neck 201 has a circular cross-section, but it may be otherwise as is described below, with reference to FIGS. 10 to 18 for example. The neck 201 thus here lacks any screw thread or screw ramp and compared to a conventional neck, it has a lower height. For example, by way of example, a square pot according to the invention has a height of approximately 95 mm with a neck having a height of approximately 6.3 mm, and with an indentation having a height of approximately 3.5 mm, and having a depth of approximately 15 mm. For a conventional pot of the same size, the height of the neck would have been of the order of 10.3 mm. These values are however given only by way of example.

[0086] The base 2 further comprises an optional rib 203. If present, such a rib 203 locally interrupts the indentation 202. In other words, the indentation 202 is then discontinuous and has at least one portion. Such a rib 203 is capable of laterally retaining a member engaged in the indentation 202 and passing therein and so forming an orientation stop. It may itself be set back in relation to the rim 204 or by a thickness equal to the depth of the indentation so as to be flush with the rim 204. The base 2 may furthermore possibly comprise several ribs 203, for example regularly distributed around the neck 201. The use of the rib or ribs 203 is described below.

[0087] The base is formed of any appropriate material, in particular glass or plastics material. It may be transparent or opaque. It may be provided to receive a mounted-on tub which contains the cosmetic product as in the case of a conventional pot.

[0088] As FIGS. 3 to 6 show, the lid 3 comprises a coupling plate 4, represented in FIG. 3 in accordance with a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, which is covered by a cap 5, represented in FIG. 6 according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] The cap 5 and the coupling plate 4 cooperate to enable easy opening and reliable closing of the pot 1 in use.

[0090] For this, the coupling plate 4 comprises a support 400.

[0091] Whatever the outside shape of the pot 1, the support 400 can have a wall contour 400a of a solid of revolution in order to promote rotation in relation to the cap 5. Thus, the support 400 here has a generally cylindrical shape.

[0092] The support 400 also comprises a closing plate 401 comprising a face referred to as upper face 401a provided to be oriented towards the cap 5, and a face referred to as lower face 401b, which is substantially parallel to the upper face 401a, and provided to be oriented towards the base 2 (these are visible for example in FIGS. 4a and 4b).

[0093] The support 400 is formed from any appropriate material, in particular of metal by machining or of plastic by molding, with, for example, the upper face 401a being substantially planar.

[0094] On the same side as the upper face 401a, the support 400 here comprises a central stud 403 formed in relief in relation to the upper face 401a. The central stud 403 is of generally cylindrical shape, such that an outside contour surface 403a of the central stud 403 is substantially parallel to at least one cylindrical part of the contour wall 400a of the support 400. In other words, the central stud 403 is advantageously centered on the upper face 401a of the support 400; the contour surface 403a of the central stud 403 and the contour wall 400a of the support 400 are here two concentric cylinders, with the contour surface 403a of the central stud 403 having a smaller radius than the radius of the contour wall 400a of the support 400. The central stud 403 is advantageously configured to form a pivot for rotation of the cap 5 which is described below.

[0095] The central stud 403 here comprises a slot 404. The slot 404 is formed here of two parts. A first part 405, here U-shaped (or C-shaped), is of uniform width, and a second part 406 is of wider form, here flared with widening starting from the first part 405. The slot 404 is provided to receive an elastic position return member 407 serving to bring the cap 5 back into resting position in relation to the coupling plate 4 when the cap 5 is turned in relation to the coupling plate 4. The position return member 407 is for example a blade spring here. Furthermore, the slot 404 is positioned here in relation to the central stud 403 so as to pass via a central axis of the central stud 403 which is the geometrical central axis of the cylinder represented by the contour surface 403a of the central stud 403. The blade spring 407 can be of uniform thickness and height. It is for example inserted into the slot 404, which makes it possible to avoid recourse to other fastening or assembly means for example such as adhesive. The blade spring 407 is furthermore composed here of a first curved part of complementary shape to the first part 405 of the slot 404, that is to say U-shaped (or C-shaped), and of a second part, which is straight here. Thus, the blade spring 407 is embedded in the central stud 403 by virtue of the first part 405 of the slot 404, and its second part has a possibility of movement in the second part 406 of the slot 404. To ensure better support and better stability of the blade spring 407 in relation to the central stud 403, and thereby in relation to the support 400, the width of the first part 405 of the slot 404 can be equal to the thickness of the blade spring 407. Lastly, the blade spring 407 can be of a length such that it extends beyond the contour surface 403a of the central stud 403, which enables the blade spring 407 to cooperate simultaneously with a slot 506 of the cap 5 here to fulfill its role of position return member as described below. Furthermore, in this exemplary embodiment, a free end of the spring blade 407, that is to say that which extends beyond the central stud 403, is situated in the middle of two coupling members 410. It could however be situated facing a coupling member as shown in FIG. 13.

[0096] On the same side as the upper face 401a, the support 400 comprises a raised portion 408 which here juxtaposes the contour wall 400a.

[0097] Still on the same side as the upper face 401a, the support 400 further comprises an annular groove 409.

[0098] The annular groove 409 is hollowed out of the raised portion 408. The groove 409 here is channel-shaped and generally describes a circle of which the center is identical to that of the support 400.

[0099] To grasp the lid 3 of the base 2, the coupling plate 4 comprises at least one coupling member 410. In the present exemplary embodiment, it comprises four identical coupling members 410, positioned at equal distances from each other, that is to say here every 90, at the periphery of the support 400.

[0100] To that end, the plate 4 comprises for example one space 415 per coupling member 410, i.e., four spaces 415 here. Thus, here, the spaces 415 are positioned at equal distances from each other and are all identical.

[0101] Each space 415 here creates a discontinuity in the contour wall 400a as well as in the raised portion 408 and therefore in the groove 409. The raised portion and the groove thus here comprise four parts which are all identical.

[0102] Each of the coupling members is housed in one of the spaces 415 which slidingly guides it radially.

[0103] As FIG. 5 shows more specifically, each coupling member 410 comprises a claw 411 and a cam follower 412. In the present exemplary embodiment, the claw 411 and the cam follower 412 extend from the same face of a dorsal wall 413 of the coupling member 410, and are oriented towards the center of the support 400 once the coupling member 410 has been mounted on the support 400. The coupling member 410 is thus C-shaped.

[0104] The claw 411 is thus configured to grasp the neck 201 of the base 2 by engaging in the indentation 202 under the rim 204. The claw 411 here has the form of a distinct rim curved towards the center of the support 400. Furthermore, the claw 411 here has a bevel 411a that is configured to cooperate with the rounded formation of the rim 204 to facilitate passing round the rim 204 by the claw 411 on its engagement in the indentation 202 when, for example, the lid is clipped on to close the pot. Lastly, the claw 411 here has a free end that is rounded to be consistent with the circular perimeter of the neck 201, with which is it provided to cooperate.

[0105] Each coupling member 410, comprising a claw 411, a cam follower 412 and a dorsal wall 413, is can be formed as one piece, for example of metal or by molding of plastic material.

[0106] The cam follower 412 is lobe-shaped here in a plane parallel to the upper face 401a of the support 400 and is of uniform thickness.

[0107] In general, the cam follower 412 can have a shape that is rounded in a plane parallel to the upper face 401a and symmetrical in relation to a median plane of the cam follower 412 that is orthogonal to the upper face 401a, in order to ensure regular movement whatever the direction of rotation of the cap 5 in relation to the coupling plate 4.

[0108] Between the cam follower 412 and the dorsal wall 413, a groove 414 is formed here. The groove 414 of each of the coupling members 410 is configured to be located in alignment with the portions of annular groove 409, so as to form a continuous groove when the coupling members 410 are in place in the spaces 415. The width of the annular groove 409 is here greater than that of the grooves 414 of the coupling members 410. It is at least substantially equal to the width of the groove 414 increased by the amplitude of movement of the coupling members 410 between a first resting position and a second opening position of the pot. This amplitude of movement is determined by the cam profile 504 of the cap 5 which is described below. This for example makes it possible to avoid subjecting the coupling return member 416 to pinching or shear.

[0109] As shown by FIG. 3, a coupling return member 416 is disposed in the portions of annular grooves 409 and the grooves 414 of the coupling members 410. The coupling return member 416 is engaged in the grooves 414 without radial play. By deforming elastically, it is able to move in the portions of groove 409 of which the width is greater towards the outside. The coupling return member 416 is thus linked to each coupling member 410 and to the support 400 and enables them to be held in position in relation to each other. The coupling return member 416 here returns the coupling members 410 towards the center of the plate 4. The dorsal wall 413 of each coupling member 410 then comes to bear against a perimeter of the closing plate 401 in the spaces 415. Furthermore, the coupling return member 416, which is for example an elastic ring here, is possibly bonded over at least one portion of groove 409, for example towards the inside, to promote and facilitate good maintenance in position of the coupling return member 416 and thus the return of the members 410.

[0110] Two positions of operation are thereby defined for the coupling members 410. In a first position, referred to as a resting or closing position of the pot, the coupling return member 416 bears against an edge of small diameter of the portions of groove 409 and it holds the coupling members 410 in their position moved towards the center of the plate 4. In a second position, referred to as an opening position of the pot, the coupling members 410 are moved away from the center of the plate. In doing this, they stretch the coupling return member 416 by driving it towards the large diameter edge of the portions of groove 409. The claws 411 of the coupling members 410, the grooves 414 and the portions of groove 409 are configured in order for the free ends of the claws, in the first position, to be situated inside an imaginary circle of which the diameter would be the maximum diameter of the rim 204 of the base and, in the said position, for the free ends of the claws to be situated outside that imaginary circle.

[0111] The coupling return member 416 is for example here an elastic ring, for example a ring of rubber, but any other elastic return means may also be employed within the scope of the invention. For example, the coupling return member 416 could comprise one or more blade springs disposed in the grooves 414 and the portions of groove 409, or for instance tension springs which would link the coupling members 410 to the central stud 403 and are configured to return the coupling members 410 automatically towards the center of the plate.

[0112] The coupling plate 4 further comprises here an obturator plate 419 (shown in FIGS. 4a, 4b and 8 for example), coupled under the closing plate 401, on the same side as the inside face 401b.

[0113] The obturator plate 419 is furthermore generally covered by a compressible planar seal 420, having a thickness of a few tenths of a millimeter, provided to be compressed on its perimeter between the obturator plate 419 and the rim 204 of the neck 201 of the base 2. The planar seal 420 is formed of any appropriate elastically compressible material, in particular of polyethylene, SEBS, elastomer or any other equivalent material. As there is very little or no relative rotation between the coupling plate and the neck, the planar seal 420 is not acted on, or is very little acted on, in shear, and it is possible to choose a relatively adherent material which has a high coefficient of friction.

[0114] Instead of such a compressible planar seal 420, the obturator plate 419 mounted on a suspension and adorned with a seal of reduced thickness may be employed, as is described for example in patent application FR 2969127.

[0115] FIG. 6 presents a cap 5 according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The cap 5 is here composed of a body 500. The body 500 comprises an upper face 501 (shown in FIG. 1), a bottom 503, at the back of the upper face 501, and a contour wall 502.

[0116] The upper face 501 here constitutes an outside face, provided for example to be visible to a user when the pot 1 is closed. The upper face 501 is for example customizable, it is configured to receive decoration, for example in the form of varnish. According to an option not shown, the upper face is formed by one or more additional layers of openwork which are superposed in order to constitute the decoration, or for instance by an additional layer of marquetry. It may be produced from plastic, wood, glass or other materials. The upper face 501 is for example planar or domed.

[0117] The contour wall 502 extends from adjacent the bottom 503.

[0118] It comprises an outside contour surface 500a which advantageously has the same shape as the outside contour of the base 2, and an inside contour surface 503a. Furthermore, the outside contour surface 500a is positioned at the periphery of the upper face 501; it is tangential to an edge of the upper face 501. The bottom 503 can be substantially at a right angle to the inside contour surface 503a and outside contour surface 500a. The inside contour surface 503a can have a circular shape, at least in part, that is to say that, at least in part, it forms a cylinder, with a diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the support 400 such that the cap 5 can pivot in relation to the coupling plate 4.

[0119] Independently of the shape of the outside contour surface 500a of the cap 5, the inside contour surface 503a can be centered in relation to the cap 5. In other words, here, a central axis of the cylinder formed by the inside contour surface 503a extend along a geometric center C of the cap 5.

[0120] The cap 5 further comprises a radial cam 504. The radial cam 504 is here formed by a relief of additional thickness on the bottom 503. The radial cam 504 here has a bearing face 504c, an outside contour surface 504a and an inside contour surface 504b. In the present exemplary embodiment, the bearing face 504c is substantially at a right angle to the outside contour surface 504a and to the inside contour surface 504b, and substantially parallel to the bottom 503. The inside contour surface 504b can define a cylindrical envelope parallel to the inside contour surface 503a. Furthermore, a diameter of the inside contour surface 504b is substantially equal to the diameter of the central stud 403 of the support 400 in order for the stud 403 to be able to be housed in a hollow defined by the inside contour surface 504b such that the cap 5 can pivot in relation to the coupling plate 4.

[0121] The outside contour surface 504a defines a profile forming at least one projecting active zone 505. Thus, the radial cam 504 is a radial cam with an outside profile. Here, it comprises four projecting active zones 505, one projecting active zone 505 per coupling member 410.

[0122] Each projecting active zone 505 is defined here by an angular portion of the radial cam 504 between two successive positions in which a radius of the radial cam 504 is equal to a distance between the outside contour surface 504a and the center C of the cap 5 which is a minimum. In other words, a projecting active zone 505 presents a distance d between the outside contour surface 504a and the center C of the cap 5 which is greater than the minimum distance d and which successively increases and decreases along the angular portion up to at least one position from which the distance d begins to increase again.

[0123] In the present exemplary embodiment, as the radial cam 504 is in particular centered in the cap 5, it presents four positions in which the distance d between the outside contour surface 504a and the center C of the cap 5 is minimum, furthermore equal here to the distance d. Between two of these consecutive positions, the distance d between the outside contour surface 504a and the center C of the cap 5 is greater until a maximum d is reached and makes it possible to define an apex of a projecting active zone 505. Each projecting active zone 505 thus presents an apex which corresponds to a position at a radius at which the distance between the outside contour surface 504a and the center C of the cap 5 is maximum (and is thus equal to the distance d). The distance d between the outside contour surface 504a and the center C of the cap 5 can change in the same way on respective opposite sides of the apex of a projecting active zone 505 until it reaches a position of distance d in relation to the center C. In other words, each projecting active zone 505 here comprises a plane of symmetry.

[0124] In the present exemplary embodiment, the radial cam 504 thus has substantially the shape of a cross with rounded branches or that has four lobes of regular profile. The radial cam 504 for example here has eight planes of symmetry. In other words, here, all the projecting active zones 505 are identical.

[0125] Thus, the distance d defines the first position of the coupling members 410, and the distance d defines their position of maximum remoteness. It is thus possible to configure, between these two positions, a position enabling the opening of the pot. In practice, this position can be advantageously close to the first position. This in particular makes it possible to constitute a safeguard in case of wear of the cam.

[0126] For example, a variation of distance necessary for the opening of a pot, that is to say to clear a claw from the indentation, corresponds to approximately 1.5 mm.

[0127] The cap 5 furthermore comprises a slot 506. The slot 506 is here hollowed into the relief of additional thickness forming the radial cam 504. The slot 506 here comprises a single entry at its end adjacent the inside contour surface 504b. That is to say it is blind at its other end. The slot 506 here furthermore has a flared shape at its entry. According to another exemplary embodiment not shown, it could comprise another entry at its other end adjacent the outside contour surface 504a, flared or not flared, that is to say it could pass through the additional thickness forming the radial cam 504. The dimensions of the slot 506 are provided in order for the slot to receive the free end of the blade spring 407. Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 6, the slot 506 is formed in a plane of symmetry of a projecting active zone 505 of the radial cam 504. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 13, it is on the contrary formed between two projecting active zones.

[0128] Thus, when the cap 5 and the coupling plate 4 are assembled (as for example shown by FIGS. 8 and 9), the contour wall 400a of the support 400 of the coupling plate 4 faces the inside contour surface 503a of the cap 5 and the cam follower 412 of each coupling member 410 is in contact with the outside contour surface 504a of the radial cam 504. The free end of the blade spring 407 which extends beyond the contour surface 403a of the central stud 403 of the plate 4 is simultaneously inserted into the slot 506 of the cap 5 to provide here its role of position return member.

[0129] The lid 3 is then configured to adopt a resting position and an opening position.

[0130] The assembly between the cap 5 and the coupling plate 4 is achieved by any appropriate means, for example by a circlip that retains the coupling plate 4 inside the cap 5, or for instance by snap engagement of the coupling plate 4 in the cap 5.

[0131] In resting position, the cap 5 and the coupling plate 4 are oriented in relation to each other such that the cam follower 412 of each coupling member 410 is positioned between two consecutive projecting active zones 505, as shown for example by FIG. 9, that is to say facing a position on the outside contour surface 504a of the radial cam 504 at a distance d from the center C of the cap 5. Each coupling member 410 is then in a position, referred to as first position. The ends of the claws 411 are then located inside the imaginary circle of which the diameter would be the maximum diameter of the rim 204 of the base 2. The lid occupies this resting position when it is placed on the base 2, as for example illustrated by FIG. 8, or when it is detached from the base 2 of the pot, without any rotational force being applied between the plate 4 and the cap 5.

[0132] The coupling return member 416 as well as the position return member 407 of the cap 5 in relation to the coupling plate 4, are then in a natural configuration, of minimum deformation, also referred to as resting configuration. Furthermore, the slot 506 of the cap 5 is aligned here with at least a part of the slot 404, which is part 406 here, such that the position return member 407 is not deformed.

[0133] To attain the opening position from the resting position, the cap 5 is turned in relation to the coupling plate 4. Each cam follower 412 moves along a corresponding projecting active zone 505 until it attains a predetermined distance in relation to the center C enabling the pot 1 to be opened. The predetermined distance corresponds to a predetermined angle of rotation between the cap 5 and the coupling plate 4. The predetermined distance is for example the whole distance d comprised between d and d.

[0134] In the present exemplary embodiment, distance d corresponds to a rotation of 45 in relation to the resting position. Thus, for a distance d comprised between d and d, the angle of rotation would be comprised between 0 and 45 for example. Thus, the predetermined distance may be fixed so as to have to apply a rotation of approximately 40, or even of approximately 30, or for instance approximately 15 or 10 to the cap 5 in relation to the coupling plate 4 for example. Each coupling member 410 then has a retracting movement, that is to say it moves away in relation to the center C, it translates in a radial direction. The groove 414 of each coupling member 410 progressively shifts which deforms the coupling return member 416, and simultaneously the position return member 407 is deformed by bending because it remains inserted both in slot 404 and in slot 506. The flared shapes of the slots thus make it possible to avoid local deformations that are too great. Such deformations could engender irreversible deformations of the blade for example.

[0135] In opening position, each coupling member 410 has then reached a second position which is translated in relation to the first position, in which the claws 411 are located outside the imaginary circle mentioned above, and the coupling return member 416 as well as the position return member 407 tend to bring the lid automatically back into resting position.

[0136] Such a lid 3 is thus easily adaptable to any base 2, provided to contain a cosmetic product, comprising a neck 201 with at least one peripheral indentation 202.

[0137] When the lid 3 is assembled on the base 2 such that the pot 1 is closed, the claw 411 of each coupling member 410 of the lid 3 is engaged in the at least one indentation 202 of the neck 201 of the base 2 while the lid 3 is in resting position.

[0138] Opening the pot 1 requires turning the lid 3 in relation to the base 2. Pivoting the lid 3 here engenders pivoting of the cap 5 in relation to the coupling plate 4 which results in translating each coupling member 410 and thus in clearing each claw 411 from its indentation 202, here by moving each claw 411 away from the outside contour surface of the neck 201. As soon as each cam follower 412 has attained the predetermined distance in relation to the center C, corresponding to a predetermined angle of rotation of the cap 5 in relation to the coupling plate 4, each claw can then pass around the rim 204.

[0139] To attain this open position, the coupling plate 4 can be braked or even retained, rotationally, either by simple friction or adherence in relation to the neck 201, or else, where provided, by the fact that one of the claws 411 is stopped against a rib 203 of the indentation 202.

[0140] By convenience where provided, the rib 203 can have a thickness substantially equal to a depth of the indentation 202 in relation to the rim 204 such that a claw 411 is incapable of passing over the rib 203 so long as it is unable to disengage from under the rim 204.

[0141] In the present exemplary embodiment, the base 2 comprises a rib 203. But, according to other examples, not shown, the base 2 could comprise four ribs such that each claw 411 of the lid 3 described above bears against a rib in a direction of rotation of the lid. In this last configuration, two consecutive ribs are for example spaced away from each other by a distance equal to a width of a claw in order for the latter to be angularly locked in each direction. According to another example not shown, the base comprises at least one rib which extends along a circumference of the neck over a distance equal to a spacing defined between two coupling members or two sides of a same coupling member such that the coupling plate is then locked in orientation in each direction of rotation. In a case in which the lid only comprises a single claw 411, the indentation 202 could for example be defined on the neck 201 by a recess in which the claw 411 engages when the lid is in resting position. In another case in which the lid comprises at least two claws 411, at least one rib 203 extends for example between two consecutive claws 411. It is of course possible to combine these different configurations.

[0142] Such a pot 1 as described above is for example easily closed by clipping the lid 3 on the base 2 for example, that is to say by pressing the lid onto the base in such a way that the claws pass the rim 204 of the neck. The rounded formation of the neck and the bevel 411a of the claws facilitate this operation. Once the rim has been passed, the claws adopt their closed position of the pot under the action of the coupling return member 416. This movement is in general accompanied by a snapping sound that informs the user that the pot is properly closed.

[0143] By way of example, FIG. 7 presents a variant embodiment of the cam of the cap of the lid.

[0144] In this variant, similar parts to the aforementioned comprise the same numerical reference increased by 1000. In this example, the radial cam 1504 comprises four projecting active zones identified as 1505a, 1505b, 1505c and 1505d. Here, the projecting active zones differ from each other. The projecting active zones 1505a, 1505b, 1505c and 1505d each here comprise a flattened apex forming a neutral zone, defined by a constant distance d.sub.1 to the center, and a transitional zone on respective opposite sides of the neutral zone, at which the distance d.sub.1 from the center is variable and less than or equal to d.sub.1. Each transitional zone thus has a minimum radius d.sub.1 which here corresponds to the closing or resting position of the claws whereas the distance d.sub.1 corresponds to the opening position of the pot. Preferably, at least one joint between a transitional zone and a neutral zone, the radial cam comprises a discontinuity that thus forms a joining zone and defines a break in the slope of the profile. Furthermore, here, the projecting active zones 1505b and 1505d have a discontinuity in relief, and the projecting active zone 1505c has its two discontinuities in relief. However, the discontinuities could, on the contrary, be of recessed form. The discontinuities in relief create a point of increased resistance in the rotation of the cap in relation to the coupling plate. Once the claws have passed over a discontinuity in relief (or have dropped into a discontinuity in recessed form) the cap remains in a stable angular position in relation to the coupling plate, and the claws stay in their opening position. In the present exemplary embodiment, there is a discontinuity in relief on opposite sides of the neutral zones formed by the projecting active zones 1505b and 1505c and by the projecting active zones 1505c and 1505d. This not only enables the same effect to be produced whatever the direction of rotation applied to the cap in relation to the plate but also to safeguard that effect in case of wear of one of the discontinuities in relief.

[0145] To close the pot, the user places the lid on the base with the plate which adheres to the upper surface of the neck and turns the lid, inducing rotation of the cap in relation to the plate, in the opposite direction to that which caused the opening in order for the claws to pass over the point of increased resistance in the opposite direction. The spring blade contributes to bringing the cap into its resting position. If by accident the lid returns to resting position while the lid is not positioned on the pot, the pot is closed in the same manner as that described above, that is to say by clipping on.

[0146] FIGS. 10 to 18 present a pot according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0147] In these Figures, similar parts to those presented with reference to the first embodiment comprise the same numerical references increased by a prime and are not therefore described again.

[0148] The pot according to this embodiment thus differs from the preceding one in particular by the following features.

[0149] As shown by FIGS. 11 and 12, the neck 201 of the base 2 here is of generally square shape having a wide opening. In the illustrated embodiment, the base is for example considered lacking any upper shoulder, in contrast to the base of the first embodiment. That is to say that the neck 201 is then situated directly extending onwards from the base and that it has a square shape itself. By way of illustration, the pot represented has a square base with sides of approximately 70 millimeters, with an opening having sides of approximately 55 millimeters, a wall thickness of approximately 7.5 millimeters on average and a neck having a height of approximately 3 millimeters. This however is not limiting, and it would be entirely possible to produce a square pot with a square opening, but with smaller dimensions of the opening and thus the presence of shoulders on the upper surface of the base. What is important here by way of example is that the neck and the opening are not circular.

[0150] The neck 201 here comprises four indentations 202 separated by ribs 203, forming orientation stops, extending along the perimeter of the neck 201 such that each indentation 202 is substantially centered in relation to a side of the neck 201 of substantially square shape and has a length substantially equal to a height of a coupling member 410, presented for example in FIG. 15.

[0151] As a consequence, as shown by FIG. 13, not only is the lid 3 of substantially square shape, corresponding to the substantially square shape of the base 2, but the coupling plate 4 furthermore here is of substantially square shape.

[0152] The pivot between the coupling plate 4 and the cap 5 is then formed here by the outside contour surface 403a of the central stud 403 cooperating with the inside contour surface 504b of the radial cam 504, and furthermore by part of the outside contour wall 400a comprising rounded corners and the inside contour surface 503a of the contour wall 502 of the cap 5 provided with reinforcements 507.

[0153] Each of the coupling members 410 is positioned substantially in the middle of one side of the coupling plate 4.

[0154] Therefore, the radial cam 504 is oriented here in the cap 5 such that each of its four projecting active zones 505 faces a corner of the cap 5.

[0155] Furthermore here, by way of example, the free end of the blade spring 407, that is to say that which extends beyond the central stud 403, is situated facing one of the coupling members 410, and therefore, the slot 506 formed in the radial cam 504 is positioned between two projecting active zones 505.

[0156] FIG. 15 presents a coupling member 410 according to a second exemplary embodiment. It differs from the preceding one in that the groove 414, even though positioned between the cam follower 412 and the dorsal wall 413 and configured to be located as a continuation of the portions of annular groove 409, is further away from the dorsal wall 413 here. Furthermore, the free end of the claw 411 is straight here, to be consistent with the perimeter of the neck 201 facing which it is provided to be positioned.

[0157] As shown by FIGS. 13 and 14 in particular, the plate 4 here comprises an optional small plate 424, which enables the coupling members 410 and the coupling return member 416 to be held in position on the support 400 when the plate 4 and the cap 5 are assembled.

[0158] FIGS. 14 and 16 here show that the lid 3 further comprises a return spring of the obturator plate 418, which for example comprises a corrugated washer held between two membranes. The return spring of the obturator plate 418 is for example sandwiched between the obturator plate 419 (which may possibly be covered with a seal in the form of a membrane for example) and the closing plate 401. Possibly, an intermediate plate 421, as shown for example in FIG. 14 but not shown in FIG. 16, is possibly added between the return spring of the obturator plate 418 and the closing plate 401.

[0159] Thus, once the pot has been closed, while the obturator plate 419 bears against the rim 204 of the neck 201, generally with the seal pinched at its perimeter between the rim 204 and the obturator plate 419, the return spring of the obturator plate 418 tends to push the closing plate 401 back, that is to say to move the closing plate 401 away in relation to the obturator plate 419 and thus from the rim 204, which results in forcing the claws 411 of each coupling member 410 to bear under the rim 204 when these latter are engaged in the indentations 202.

[0160] Lastly, FIGS. 17 and 18 show in a view from below the respective positions of the coupling plate 4 and of the cap 5 according to whether the lid 3 is respectively in resting position or in opening position.

[0161] Tapped blind holes 509, present in the corners of the cap 5 of substantially square shape, in particular here in the reinforcements 507, are thus configured to receive, for example, screws to assemble the plate 4 to the cap 5. To that end, the plate 4 here comprises a flange 422 comprising holes 423 configured to be passed through for example by the screws provided to be accommodated in the tapped holes 509.

[0162] Furthermore, as made apparent by FIG. 13 and FIGS. 17 and 18, the inside contour surface 503a which defines the housing for the coupling plate does not have the shape of a cylinder of revolution here. Its shape is provided in order for the obturator plate to be able to oscillate through an angle of approximately 15 on either side of a median position which corresponds to the resting or closing position of the pot. In the closing position of the pot, the contour of the cap 5 is aligned with that of the base. The contour of the neck of which the shape substantially matches the outside contour of the obturator plate takes this feature into account.

[0163] The opening and the closing of the pot are made in accordance with the same operating procedure as that which has been described for the first embodiment, except for the fact that on opening the pot the ribs 203 retain the claws 411 of the coupling members 410 on rotation of the cap. Also, on closing, the user must place the cap in angular coincide with the base in order for the claws 411 of the coupling members 410 to enter the indentations 202. It is also possible to provide for this embodiment the same construction variant of the radial cam as that described above with reference to FIG. 7. Moreover, this embodiment applies to any non-circular shape of neck.

[0164] Naturally, the present invention is limited neither to the preceding description nor to the appended drawings, but encompasses any variant form within the capability of the person skilled in the art.