Refillable Device for Packaging and Applying Cosmetic Product

Abstract

A cosmetic product application and packaging device comprises a case defining a housing and a refill of cosmetic product received in the housing. The case presents a first snap-fitting relief. The refill (14) presents a second snap-fitting relief. One of the first and second snap-fitting reliefs is of metal and comprises a clipping tab extending between two longitudinally blind slots.

Claims

1. An cosmetic product application and packaging device of at least one cosmetic product, comprising: a case defining a housing, the case presenting at least one first snap-fitting relief; and a refill of cosmetic product intended to be received at least partially in the housing defined by the case, the refill presenting a second snap-fitting relief; wherein one from among the at least one first snap-fitting relief and the at least one second snap-fitting relief is of metal and comprises at least one clipping tab extending between at least two longitudinally blind slots, the clipping tab being elastically deformable.

2. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 1, wherein the clipping tab and the two longitudinally blind slots are on a cylindrical surface of a metal sleeve.

3. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 1, wherein the clipping tab comprises a projecting relief.

4. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 3, wherein the projecting relief extends over the entire width of tab.

5. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 3, wherein the other from among the at least one first snap-fitting relief and the at least one second snap-fitting relief comprises one from among: a groove, a ridge, one lug, a plurality of lugs.

6. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 1, wherein the case mainly extends along an axis, the two longitudinally blind slots being parallel to the axis.

7. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 1, wherein the case comprises an outer shell receiving a metal sleeve, the clipping tab and the two longitudinally blind slots being on the metal sleeve.

8. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 1, wherein the case comprises a base.

9. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 7, wherein the case comprises a base and wherein the base comprises an outer shell receiving a metal sleeve, the clipping tab and the two longitudinally blind slots being on the metal sleeve in the base.

10. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 8, further comprising a cap to close the base.

11. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 10, wherein the cap comprises an outer shell receiving a metal sleeve, the metal sleeve forming a clipping tab and two longitudinally blind slots being on the metal sleeve in the cap, to fix the refill in the cap.

12. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 8, wherein the refill comprises a sleeve forming a clipping tab extending between two longitudinally blind slots, to fix the refill to the base of the case.

13. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 1, comprising an applicator device.

14. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 13, wherein the applicator device comprises a means for distributing cosmetic product.

15. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 14, wherein the distribution means is a lipstick mechanism receiving a lipstick pellet.

16. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 15, wherein the lipstick mechanism comprises a first meshing relief adapted to be driven in rotation by a second meshing relief integral with the base of the case to move the lipstick pellet in the lipstick mechanism, between at least one first retracted position, and at least one second lipstick application position.

17. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 16, wherein the first meshing relief is formed by an indentation on a frontal surface of a base plate of the lipstick mechanism, free in rotation in relation to a lipstick neck.

18. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 1, wherein the refill of cosmetic product comprises a reservoir of cosmetic product.

19. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 18, wherein the refill of cosmetic product comprises a plug, integral with an applicator element of the cosmetic product.

20. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 19, further comprising a cap to close the base, wherein the cap is fixed on the plug.

21. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 20, wherein the cap is snap-fitted on a metal sleeve fixed on the plug, the metal sleeve presenting at least one snap-fitting relief comprising a clipping tab extending between two longitudinally blind slots.

22. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 20, wherein the applicator element is one from among: a brush, a tip of plastic, a cosmetic brush.

23. The cosmetic product application and packaging device according to claim 10, wherein the refill comprises a sleeve forming a clipping tab extending between two longitudinally blind slots, to fix the refill to the cap.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] Other features, details and advantages will appear upon reading the detailed description below, and analyzing the attached drawings, in which:

[0038] FIG. 1 schematically represents, in perspective view, a first example of a cosmetic product application and packaging device.

[0039] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of elements forming the cosmetic product application and packaging device from FIG. 1, represented separated from each other.

[0040] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the base of the case of the cosmetic product application and packaging device from FIG. 1.

[0041] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a refill implemented in the cosmetic product application and packaging device from FIG. 1.

[0042] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the cap of the case of the cosmetic product application and packaging device from FIG. 1.

[0043] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic product application and packaging device from FIG. 1.

[0044] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a detail of the fixation of the refill from FIG. 4 into the base of the case from FIG. 3.

[0045] FIG. 8 schematically represents, in cross section, a second example of a cosmetic product application and packaging device, comprising a refill fixed in a case by snap-fitting.

[0046] FIG. 9 represents a first detail from FIG. 8, labelled IX.

[0047] FIG. 10 represents a second detail from FIG. 8, labelled X.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0048] In the rest of the description, elements that are identical or that have identical functions bear the same reference signs. For the sake of brevity of the present description, identical elements in several examples are not described in detail, in the context of the detailed description of each of these examples. On the contrary, the description below first and foremost details the differences between the different examples.

[0049] FIG. 1 schematically represents, in perspective view, a first example of a cosmetic product application and packaging device 10. According to this first example, the cosmetic product is presented in the form of a stick. In particular, the cosmetic product may be a lipstick, a skin or lip care product, particularly a lip balm, a sun protection product for the lips or the skin.

[0050] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the application and packaging device 10 essentially comprises a case 12 and a refill 14. The case 12 comprises, here consists in, a base 15 and a cap 16. As illustrated, the application and packaging device 10, particularly the case 12, is of generally cylindrical shape, mainly extending along the direction of an axis of extension A10 of the application and packaging device 10. Here, the application and packaging device 10 is of generally cylindrical shape with an elliptical cross section. Of course, other general shapes of the application and packaging device 10 are possible. In particular, the application and packaging device 10 may be of generally cylindrical shape, with a circular or polygonal cross section.

[0051] The base 15 of the case 12 is represented in cross section in FIG. 3. The base 15 of the case 12 first comprises a cylindrical outer shell 18, mainly extending along the direction of an axis of extension A15 of the base 15 of the case 12, here corresponding to axis A10 in the application and packaging device 10. Here the outer shell 18 is of elliptical cross section. The outer shell 18 may be made of any material conceivable to the person skilled in the art to form a casing of a cosmetic product application and packaging device 10 in the shape of a stick, particularly of one from among glass, metal, particularly aluminum or an aluminum alloy, particularly Zamak, ceramic, porcelain, crystal, and plastic, particularly polymethyl methacrylate, polystyrene, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, ionomeric resin such as the ethylene vinyl copolymer known by the trade name of Surlyn, wood, and urea formaldehyde.

[0052] On its radially inner surface, outer shell 18 has a ridge 20. Here, ridge 20 is rectilinear, parallel to axis A15 of base 15 of case 12. Ridge 20 here extends over only one portion of the height of outer shell 18, oriented along the direction of axis A15 of base 15 of case 12. For example, ridge 20 extends over at least two-thirds of the height of outer shell 18, preferably over at least three-fourths of the height of outer shell 18.

[0053] Base 15 of case 12 also comprises, according to the example illustrated, a capsule 22 fixed to an end of outer shell 18. Capsule 22 thus closes one longitudinal end of cylindrical outer shell 18. Capsule 22 may present, as illustrated, a base plate 24 intended to form a longitudinal end of application and packaging device 10. One face of base plate 24 of capsule 22, oriented to the outside of outer shell 18, may then include terms or decorations, formed directly on base plate 24 or applied to this base plate 24 of capsule 22.

[0054] Capsule 22 further comprises a crown 26, projecting from base plate 24. Here, crown 26 is of generally cylindrical shape along axis A15 of base 15 of case 12, and is of elliptical cross section, substantially complementary to the inner cross section of outer shell 18. Crown 24 may thus be clamped into outer shell 18. Crown 24 presents indentations 28 on its radially outer surface, one of which receives part of ridge 20 of outer shell 18. The receipt of one part of ridge 20 in one particular indentation 28 may have a foolproofing function to fix capsule 22 in a particular orientation in relation to outer shell 18. Here, crown 26 also presents indentations 30 on its radially inner surface. Indentations 30 on the radially inner surface of crown 26 are angularly offset in relation to indentations 28 on the radially outer surface of crown 26, such that, angularly, an indentation 30 on the radially inner face is each time between two indentations 28 on the radially outer face and an indentation 28 on the radially outer face is each time between two indentations 30 on the radially inner face. Such a configuration enables a capsule 22 to be obtained that is lighter and easier to make by molding, by limiting the thickness of crown 26.

[0055] Alternatively, capsule 22 may be integral with outer shell 18.

[0056] Base 15 of case 12 further comprises an insert 32 received in outer shell 18. Insert 32 presents for this a general shape substantially complementary to the shape of outer shell 18. In particular, in the example illustrated, insert 32 presents a cylindrical portion 34 complementary to the cross section of outer shell 18. Grooves 36 are on the radially outer surface of cylindrical portion 34. Grooves 36 are substantially rectilinear parallel to axis A15 of base 15 of case 12. One of the grooves 36 here receives ridge 20 on the radially inner surface of outer shell 18. Here again, the receipt of one portion of ridge 20 in a particular groove 36 may have a foolproofing function with regard to the orientation of insert 32 in relation to outer shell 18.

[0057] Alternatively, the receipt of one part of ridge 20 in a groove 36 prevents the relative rotation of these two parts around axis A15 of base 15 of case 12. In this case, however, it is preferable that several ridges 20 are at least partially received, each in a respective groove 36.

[0058] In addition, insert 32 here forms two tabs 38, projecting in the direction of axis A15 of base 15 of case 12, in relation to cylindrical portion 34, and extending in the extension of the outer surface of cylindrical portion 34. However, insert 32, particularly cylindrical portion 34, forms a flange 35 at the base of tabs 38. Lug 37 projects from flange 35, in the direction of axis A15 of base 15 of case 12.

[0059] Insert 32 further forms meshing relief 40. Here meshing relief 40 is presented in the form of a relief with an outer cylindrical shape, along axis A15 of base 15 of case 12. Here, meshing relief 40 has a cross section in the shape of a 5-pointed star. Of course other shapes of the meshing relief are accessible to the person skilled in the art. In particular, meshing relief 40 may a priori take any cylindrical shape with a non-circular cross section, particularly with a polygonal cross section.

[0060] Base 15 of case 12 further comprises, according to the example illustrated, a magnet 42. Magnet 42 is for example received in contact with flange 35 of insert 32, between two tabs 38 of insert 32. Magnet 42 also comprises, in the example illustrated, a notch 44 receiving lug 37 of insert 32. Therefore, the orientation of magnet 42 is ensured in relation to insert 32 and thus in relation to base 15 of case 12, since the orientation of insert 32 is ensured by the foolproofing formed by the receipt of ridge 20 in groove 36. This is particularly interesting when magnet 42 is a quadrupole magnet.

[0061] Lastly, base 15 of case 12 comprises a sleeve 46. Here, sleeve 46 is made of metal, for example of aluminum or of an aluminum alloy such as Zamak. Sleeve 46 comprises a cylindrical portion 48, with a circular cross section, a first annular portion 50, projecting radially to the outside in relation to cylindrical portion 48, at a first end of cylindrical portion 48, and a second annular portion 52, projecting radially to the inside, in relation to cylindrical portion 48, at a second end of cylindrical portion 48. The second annular portion 52 defines a central opening through which extends cylindrical base 41 of circular cross section, of meshing relief 40 of insert 32. First annular portion 50 defines, with outer shell 18, insert 32, particularly cylindrical portion 34 of insert 32, and cylindrical portion 48 of sleeve 46, a housing for receiving magnet 42.

[0062] In addition, as is more particularly visible in FIG. 7, cylindrical portion 48 of sleeve 46 forms two snap-fitting reliefs 54 (or clipping reliefs). Here, the two snap-fitting reliefs 54 are symmetrical with relation to axis A15 of base 15 of case 12. Each snap-fitting relief 54 comprises, as illustrated, a clipping tab 56 extending between two slots 58.

[0063] Slots 58 are here all identical. Here slot is understood to refer to an opening, traversing the wall of cylindrical portion 48 of sleeve 46 along a radial direction in relation to axis A15 of base 15 of case 12. Thus, each slot 58 traverses the thickness of sleeve 46, particularly the cylindrical portion of sleeve 46, in which it is formed. Each slot 58 may be made by removing material from sleeve 46. Alternatively however, each slot 58 may be made by cutting sleeve 46, particularly cylindrical portion 48 of sleeve 46, substantially without removing material from sleeve 46. In all cases, each slot 58 here separates along an orthoradial direction two edges of material of sleeve 46, particularly cylindrical portion 48 of sleeve 46. Each slot 58 here extends longitudinally, parallel to axis A15 of base 15 of case 12. Each slot 58 is thus rectilinear in the example illustrated.

[0064] As seen in FIG. 7, each slot 58 has no outlet, in that each slot 58 extends between two longitudinal ends formed in sleeve 46, in particular in cylindrical portion 48 of sleeve 46. Slots 58 make sleeve 46 substantially more flexible, particularly cylindrical portion 48 of sleeve 46 between two adjacent slots 58, where cylindrical portion 48 of sleeve 46 forms a clipping tab 56.

[0065] Each clipping tab 56 presents a relief 60 radially projecting towards the inside. Thus, each relief 60 is projecting in relation to the rest of the clipping tab 56 from which it comes. Here, projecting relief 60 is formed by a boss of the clipping tab 56. Such a boss is made by deformation of clipping tab 56. Thus, clipping tab 56 does not substantially present added thickness at the projecting relief 60. Here, boss 60 is substantially orthoradial, in that the entire portion extending between two adjacent slots 58 is domed, substantially in the shape of an angular sector of a cylinder. Alternatively, however, projecting relief 60 may be formed by a bead or by any other shape accessible to the person skilled in the art.

[0066] As illustrated in FIG. 7, each tab 56 is integral, at each of its ends, with the rest of sleeve 46, particularly with the cylindrical sheath of cylindrical portion 48 of sleeve 46. Each tab 56 is separated from the rest of sleeve 46, along the lateral sides of tab 56, extending parallel to axis A15 of base 15 of case 12, by slots 58 that each extend along a lateral side of tab 56.

[0067] Each tab 56 may extend, except for projecting relief 60, where appropriate, in the extension of the cylindrical sheath of cylindrical portion 48 of sleeve 46. In this case, only projecting relief 60 is not included in the extension of the cylindrical sheath of cylindrical portion 48 of sleeve 46. Alternatively, however, each tab 56 does not extend in the extension of the cylindrical sheath of cylindrical portion 48 of sleeve 46.

[0068] Each tab 56and thus each slot 58may have a length, here measured according to the direction of axis A15 of base 15 of case 12, equal to or greater than 1 mm, preferably equal to or greater than 2 mm, and/or equal to or less than 10 mm, preferably equal to or less than 5 mm.

[0069] Each projecting relief 60 extends longitudinally along a direction perpendicular to axis A15 of base 15 of case 12, here along an orthoradial direction in relation to axis A15 of base 15 of case 12. Each projecting relief 60 may be over the entire width of the corresponding tab 56. Alternatively, however, each projecting relief 60 is on only one portion of the width of tab 56, between two slots 58. In particular, each projecting relief 60 may be on at least half of the width of tab 56, preferably on at least three-fourths of the width of tab 56.

[0070] Each projecting relief 60 may be substantially formed between one-third and two-thirds of the height of corresponding tab 56, particularly at the middle of the height of corresponding tab 56. Deformation of tab 56 is in fact more significant towards the middle of its height, than at its longitudinal ends, in particular.

[0071] Projecting relief 60 presents a height, measured along the direction of axis A15 of base 15 of case 12, that is less than the height of slots 58, measured along the same direction of axis A15 of base 15 of case 12. For example, the height of projecting relief 60 is equal to or greater than 0.1 mm, preferably equal to or greater than 0.5 mm, and/or equal to or less than 3 mm, preferably equal to or less than 2 mm. The height of projecting relief 60 is preferably limited in relation to the height of clipping tab 56. For example, the height of projecting relief 60 represents less than 20%, preferably less than 10%, of the height of clipping tab 56. The width of projecting relief 60, measured along a circumferential or orthogonal direction, may be equal to or greater than 1 mm, preferably equal to or greater than 2 mm, and/or equal to or less than 10 mm, preferably equal to or less than 5 mm. The distance between the top of projecting relief 60 and the cylindrical sheath of cylindrical portion 48 of sleeve 46, measured along a radial direction in relation to axis A15 of base 15 of case 12, may be less than 2 mm, preferably less than 1 mm. Tab 56 thus presents good flexibility, while conserving satisfactory mechanical strength.

[0072] Each tab 56 equipped with a projecting relief 60, extending between two slots 58, thus forms an snap-fitting relief 54, on cylindrical portion 48 of sleeve 46. Preferably, each snap-fitting relief 54 consists of such a tab 56 extending between two slots 58 and equipped with projecting relief 60. In a remarkable manner, such an snap-fitting relief 54 is formed by a metal part, in this case sleeve 46. In other words, it is thus possible to make an snap-fitting relief 54 presenting sufficient elasticity to be deformed, even if this snap-fitting relief 54 is formed by a metal part, in this case sleeve 46. Making a metal snap-fitting relief 54 is interesting in more ways than one. First, metal is easier to recycle than plastic. In addition, metal is stronger than plastic, such that the risk of Brinelling of snap-fitting relief 54, of metal, is reduced.

[0073] Sleeve 46 presents a thickness that may, for example, be equal to or greater than 0.1 mm and/or equal to or less than 1 mm. Thus, sleeve 46 is also rigid, such that it is difficult or even impossible to deform sleeve 46 with bare hands if not at the level of tabs 56.

[0074] FIG. 4 schematically represents, in cross section, a refill 14 intended to be received in case 12 described previously, particularly in base 15 of case 12.

[0075] Refill 14 comprises, here is composed of, lipstick mechanism 62, schematically represented in FIG. 4. Refill 14 is of a generally cylindrical shape, mainly extending along the direction of axis A14, which coincides with axis A10 of application and packaging device 10 when the latter is assembled.

[0076] In a matter that is known in itself, mechanism 62 receives a stick of cosmetic product B. Mechanism 62 comprises, for example, base plate 64, a cup 66 and a neck 68. Mechanism 62 is adapted to move cup 66 to which the stick of cosmetic product B is fixed in relation to neck 68, between a retracted position illustrated in FIG. 4, enabling application and packaging device 10 to be closed by means of cap 16, and a deployed position, for applying the cosmetic product, in which the stick of cosmetic product B projects from neck 68. In this type of lipstick mechanism, generally the stick of cosmetic product B moves between its two positions, by causing neck 68 to pivot in relation to base plate 64 of mechanism 14. Base plate 64 may present a helical groove (not represented) to guide at least one projection integral with cup 66 rotated in relation to base plate 14, via neck 68.

[0077] It may be noted that base plate 64 lacks longitudinal ridges, parallel to axis A14 of refill 14, on its outer surface. However, base plate 64 forms an indentation 70 complementary to the cross section of meshing relief 40. Thus, base plate 64 is integral in rotation with case 12 around axis A14 of refill 14, by the receipt of meshing relief 40 in complementary indentation 70. It is thus possible to control lipstick mechanism 62 by causing neck 68 to turn in relation to base 15 of case 12. Other means of making base plate 64 and base 15 of case 12 integral in rotation are accessible to the person skilled in the art. For example, base plate 64 may present grooves on its outer surface, extending for example parallel to axis A14 of refill 14, and receiving complementary ridges formed on the radially inner surface of insert 32, integral in rotation with outer shell 18 of base 12.

[0078] In addition, base plate 64 presents a groove 72, here circular, on its outer contour.

[0079] Case 12 of cosmetic product distribution and packaging device 10 further comprises a cap 16, here in the form of a cover 16.

[0080] Cover 16 presents a generally cylindrical shape, mainly extending along the direction of axis A16, which coincides with axis A10 of application and packaging device 10, when it is assembled.

[0081] Cover 16 first comprises outer shell 74. Here outer shell 74 is cylindrical, along axis A16 of cover 16. Here outer shell 74 is of elliptical cross section substantially identical to the cross section of outer shell 18 of case 12.

[0082] Outer shell 74 of cover 16 may be made of any material conceivable to the person skilled in the art to form a casing of a cosmetic product application and packaging device 10 in the shape of a stick, particularly of one from among glass, metal, particularly aluminum or an aluminum alloy such as Zamak, ceramic, porcelain, crystal, and plastic, particularly polymethyl methacrylate, polystyrene, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, ionomeric resin such as the ethylene vinyl copolymer known by the trade name of Surlyn, wood, and urea formaldehyde.

[0083] Preferably, outer shell 74 of cover 16 is of the same material as outer shell 18 of base 15 of case 12.

[0084] On its radially inner surface, outer shell 74 here has a ridge 76. Here, ridge 76 is rectilinear, parallel to axis A16 of cover 16. Ridge 76 here extends over only one portion of the height of outer shell 74, oriented along the direction of axis A16 of cover 16. For example, ridge 76 extends over at least two-thirds of the height of outer shell 74, preferably over at least three-fourths of the height of outer shell 74.

[0085] In addition, cover 16 comprises a capsule 78 fixed to one end of outer shell 74. Capsule 78 thus closes one longitudinal end of cylindrical outer shell 74. Capsule 78 may present, as illustrated, a base plate 80 intended to form a longitudinal end of application and packaging device 10. One face of base plate 80 of capsule 78, oriented to the outside of outer shell 74 may then include terms or decorations, formed directly on base plate 80 or applied to this base plate 80 of capsule 78. Capsule 78 is here applied to outer shell 74. Alternatively, however, capsule 78 may be integral with outer shell 74.

[0086] Capsule 78 further comprises a crown 82, projecting from base plate 80. Here crown 86 is of a generally cylindrical shape, along axis A16 of cover 16. Crown 82 has a cross section in a generally elliptical shape. Crown 82 is substantially complementary to the inner cross section of outer shell 74. Crown 82 may thus be clamped into outer shell 74. Crown 82 here presents indentations 84 on its radially outer surface, one of which receives part of ridge 76 of outer shell 74, and on its radially inner surface. The receipt of ridge 76 of outer shell 74 in a particular indentation 84 also enables a foolproofing with regard to the orientation of capsule 76 in relation to outer shell 74.

[0087] Cover 16 further comprises an insert 86 received in outer shell 74. Insert 86 presents for this a general shape substantially complementary to the shape of outer shell 74. In particular, in the example illustrated, insert 86 presents a cylindrical portion 88 complementary to the cross section of outer shell 74. Grooves 90 are on the radially outer surface of cylindrical portion 88 of insert 86. Grooves 90 are substantially rectilinear, parallel to axis A16 of cover 16. One of the grooves 90 here receives ridge 76 on the radially inner surface of outer shell 74. Ridge 76 and groove 90 receiving ridge 76 thus form a foolproofing for the assembly of insert 86 into outer shell 74 of cover 16, insert 86 thus being assembled with a given orientation in relation to outer shell 74.

[0088] In addition, insert 86 here forms two tabs 92, projecting in the direction of axis A16 of cover 16, in relation to cylindrical portion 88, and extending in the extension of the outer surface of cylindrical portion 88. However, insert 86, particularly cylindrical portion 88, forms a flange 91 at the base of tabs 92. Lug 93 projects from flange 91, in the direction of axis A16 of the cover.

[0089] Insert 86 receives, near a base, a balancing weight 94. Balancing weight 94 enables the weight of application and packaging device 10 to be better distributed.

[0090] Cover 16 further comprises, according to the example illustrated, a magnet 95. Magnet 95 is, for example, received in contact with flange 35 of insert 91, between two tabs 92 of insert 86. Magnet 95 also comprises, in the example illustrated, a notch receiving lug 93 of insert 86. This ensures the orientation of magnet 95 in relation to insert 86 and thus in relation to cover 16. When magnet 95 is a quadrupole magnet, it is thus ensured that the fixation of cover 16 on base 15 of case 12, can only be carried out with a single orientation or several predefined orientations of cover 16 around axis A10 of application and packaging device 10, relative to base 15 of case 12.

[0091] Lastly, cover 16 comprises a sleeve 96. Sleeve 96 is here made of metal. Sleeve 96 comprises a cylindrical portion 97, with a circular cross section, a first annular portion 98, projecting radially to the outside in relation to cylindrical portion 97, at a first end of cylindrical portion 97, and a second annular portion 99, projecting radially to the inside, in relation to cylindrical portion 97, at a second end of cylindrical portion 97. First annular portion 98 defines, with outer shell 74, insert 86, particularly cylindrical portion 88 of insert 86, and cylindrical portion 97 of sleeve 96, a housing for receiving magnet 95.

[0092] Cosmetic product application and packaging device 10 may be assembled as follows.

[0093] First, refill 14 is inserted into base 15 of case 12, until projecting relief 60 of each clipping tab 56 of sleeve 46 of case 12 is received in groove 72 of base plate 64 of refill 14, as illustrated in FIG. 7. In other words, refill 14 is snap-fitted in sleeve 46 of base 15 of case 12. In this way a robust fixation is obtained of refill 14 in case 12, particularly in base 15 of case 12, which may, however, be disassembled easily, while limiting the risk of damaging case 12, particularly sleeve 46 of base 15 of case 12. Simultaneously, indentation 70 engages with meshing relief 40.

[0094] As seen in FIG. 6, in particular, the snap-fitting of clipping tab 56 and groove 72 is done near one end of outer shell 18, opposite the end where refill 14 is inserted in base 15 of case 15, for example at a distance from this end of outer shell 18 of less than 50%, preferably less than 20%, even more preferably less than 10%, of the height of outer shell 18. Thus, any possible friction when refill 14 is inserted into case 12 only occurs at the end of the insertion of refill 14.

[0095] Thus base 15 of case 12 may be closed by means of cover 16, this being fixed on base 15 of case 12 by the cooperation of magnets 42, 95. In this position, the portion of refill 14 that projects out of base 15 of case 12 is received in the housing defined by sleeve 96 in cover 16. Of course, other means to fix cover 16 on base 15 of case 12 are accessible to the person skilled in the art. Particularly, cover 16 may be screwed or snap-fitted onto base 15 of case 12.

[0096] In addition, while here cover 16 is only fixed on base 15 of case 12, cover 16 may alternatively or additionally be fixed to refill 14. Cover 16 may be fixed on refill 14 by any means accessible to the person skilled in the art.

[0097] In the following, a second example of cosmetic product application and packaging device 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 to 10.

[0098] According to this second example, cosmetic product application and packaging device 100 is more particularly adapted to the packaging and application of a cosmetic product in liquid, paste, or powder form, by means of an applicator device such as a cosmetic brush, brush, or a plastic applicator element, preferably flocked. Such a cosmetic product is, for example, a gloss, a nail polish, a mascara, or a foundation.

[0099] Application and packaging device 100 also comprises a case 12 and a refill 14 received in case 12. Case 12 also comprises base 15 and cap 16, here in the form of a cover.

[0100] Here, base 15 of case 12 comprises outer shell 18 and capsule 22, which closes one end of outer shell 18. Alternatively, outer shell 18 and capsule 22 are integral.

[0101] Here, cover 16 essentially comprises outer shell 74, of generally cylindrical shape. According to the example illustrated, outer shell 74 is closed at one end by capsule 78. Alternatively, however, outer shell 74 and capsule 78 are integral.

[0102] Here, refill 14 comprises a reservoir 102 of cosmetic product. Reservoir 102 here is cylindrical, preferably with a circular cross section. Reservoir 102 here forms a collar 104 receiving a spinning ring 106. Collar 104 presents a threading on its radially outer surface.

[0103] As this is more particularly seen in FIG. 9, refill 14 here comprises a metal sleeve 46, fixed to reservoir 102. For example, sleeve 46 is received in recess 108 on the wall of reservoir 106. Here, sleeve 46 is fixed near one longitudinal end of reservoir 106, that is first introduced in outer shell 18 during insertion of refill 14 in base 15 of case 12. Such an assembly appears particularly esthetic, sleeve 46 not being visible or being only slightly visible in application and packaging device 100, once assembled. Sleeve 46 presents the same snap-fitting reliefs 54 as sleeve 46 described with regard to the first example of application and packaging device 10. Here, projecting relief 60 on tab 56 of each snap-fitting relief 54 is received in a groove 72 formed on the radially inner surface of outer shell 18 of base 15 of case 12. Thus, reservoir 102 of refill 14 is fixed to base 15 of case 12, by snap-fitting. According to one variation, not illustrated, groove 72 may be formed on an insert fixed to the inside of outer shell 18 of base 15 of case 12.

[0104] In addition, according to the example illustrated, refill 14 comprises a cosmetic product applicator device 110 comprising an applicator element 112, a head 114 and a stem 116 connecting applicator element 112 to head 114. Applicator device 112 further comprises a sleeve 46 fixed to head 116, particularly in a recess 118, near one longitudinal end of head 114. Here, sleeve 46 is fixed near one longitudinal end of head 114, that is first introduced in outer shell 74 during insertion of refill 14 in cover 16. Such an assembly appears particularly esthetic, sleeve 46 not being visible or being only slightly visible in application and packaging device 100, once assembled. Sleeve 46 presents the same snap-fitting reliefs 54 as sleeve 46 described with regard to the first example of application and packaging device 10. Here, projecting relief 60 on tab 54 of each snap-fitting relief 54 is received in groove 72 formed on the radially inner surface of outer shell 74 of cover 16. Thus, applicator device 110 of refill 14 is fixed to cover 16 of case 12, by snap-fitting. According to a variation, not illustrated, groove 72 may be formed on an insert fixed to the inside of outer shell 74.

[0105] Furthermore, it is noted here that head 114 presents an inside thread to enable cover 16 to be fixed on reservoir 106 of refill 14, received in base 15 of case 12. In particular, according to the example illustrated, cover 16 is thus fixed on head 114, itself screwed on reservoir 106 of refill 14, reservoir 106 being fixed to base 15 of case 12. Alternatively, the inside thread may be present on an insert, fixed inside outer shell 74 of cover 16 or on outer shell 74 of cover 16. According to still another alternative, cover 16, particularly outer shell 74 or head 114 of applicator device 110, is fixed on base 15 of case 12.

[0106] Preferably, head 114 of applicator device 110 has a plugging function, in that it is adapted to close or plug reservoir 102, particularly when cover 16 is fixed on reservoir 106 of refill 14. Stem 116 is such that applicator element 112 is inserted into reservoir 102 when cover 16 is fixed on reservoir 102. Thus, in this closed position of application and packaging device 100, stem 116 traverses spinning ring 106 fixed in collar 104 of reservoir 102. In the event of removal of applicator element 112 outside of reservoir 102, stem 116 and then applicator element 112 traverse spinning ring 106, which enables any possible excess cosmetic product on applicator element 112 to be removed. Cover 16 then acts as a gripping device enabling the cosmetic product to be applied precisely by using applicator element 112.

[0107] Also in this second example, snap-fitting reliefs 54 enable a robust fixation of reservoir 102 and head 114 of refill 14 to case 12, particularly at base 15 of case 12 and to cover 16, respectively. The disassembly of these snap-fittings, however, remains easy, to enable refill 14 to be removed from case 12, when this is necessary.

[0108] In the example from FIG. 8, snap-fitting reliefs 54 are formed by sleeves 46 included in refill 14. Alternatively, however, sleeves 46 may be included in case 12, particularly in base 15 of case 12 and/or in cover 16.

[0109] The present invention is not limited to the examples that have just been described, but, on the contrary, is likely to have numerous variations accessible to the person skilled in the art.

[0110] Thus, in each example illustrated, tabs 56 of snap-fitting reliefs 54 may be on case 12 and may cooperate with groove 72 on refill 14. Alternatively, however, tabs 56 of snap-fitting reliefs 54 are on refill 14 and cooperate with a groove 72 formed on case 12.

[0111] Furthermore, instead of groove 72, other snap-fitting reliefs are accessible to the person skilled in the art, that are adapted to cooperate with tabs 56 and projecting reliefs 60, to make an snap-fitting. In particular, one may cite a ridge, one or more lugs, for example in the form of hooks, or a bead.

[0112] Also, in the examples described, snap-fitting reliefs 54 are each time formed by sleeve 46 applied in case 12 or in refill 14. Alternatively, however, the snap-fitting relief(s) 54 may be formed directly by outer shell 18, 74 of the base of the case or the cap 16, particularly when this outer shell 18, 74 is of metal.

[0113] Furthermore, the application and packaging device may comprise another application device than those already described. In particular, the application and packaging device may comprise a device for distributing cosmetic product, such as, for example, a pipette or a pump.