WO2013037925A1

WO2013037925A1 - Cosmetic product dispenser and associated container

Info

Publication number: WO2013037925A1
Application number: PCT/EP2012/068017
Authority: WO
Inventors: Nicolas Albisetti
Original assignee: LOreal SA
Current assignee: LOreal SA
Priority date: 2011-09-15
Filing date: 2012-09-13
Publication date: 2013-03-21
Anticipated expiration: 2014-03-15
Also published as: FR2980088B1; FR2980088A1

Abstract

Cosmetic product dispenser and associated container This dispenser comprises a tip (30) and a member (36) that is free to move in relation to the fixed member (32) over a distance between a first position and a second position. It contains a releasable mechanism (38) for blocking the displacement of the mobile member (36) comprising a mobile blocking member (100) under the effect of gravity. The blocking mechanism (38) is able to authorize the passage of the mobile member (36) from its first position towards its second position in a first range of inclinations of a central axis (A-A') of the dispenser (16) in relation to a vertical axis, and is able to prevent the passage of the mobile member (36) from its first position towards its second position outside of the first range of inclinations. The travel of the mobile member (36) between the first position and the second position independent of the height of the blocking member (100).

Description

Cosmetic product dispenser and associated container

This invention relates to a cosmetic product dispenser on a receiving surface, comprising:

- a tip defining a product dispensing orifice, able to open opposite a receiving surface arranged under the tip;

- fixed member;

- a member that is free to move in relation to the fixed member over a distance between a first position and a second position.

"Cosmetic product" means in particular, in the sense of this invention, a product such as defined in Regulation (EC) no. 1223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of November 30, 2009 relating to cosmetic products.

The cosmetic product is advantageously in fluid form. It is for example in the form of a liquid, cream, gel, paste, or possibly a powder.

A large number of cosmetic product dispensers allow a product to be dispensed on a surface. The product generally passes through a dispensing orifice arranged in a tip projecting from the receptacle containing the product.

In order to improve the hygiene of the device, it is desirable to minimize the pollution of the cosmetic product contained in the reservoir by microbial sources.

The tip is generally placed at a distance from the dispensing surface. However in certain cases, the tip enters into direct contact with the surface of the body of a user, in particular when the product is applied directly on this surface, which sometimes leads to microbial contamination.

The microbial pollution generally results from the contact which can occur between a surface of the body of a user of the device, and the product present on the device.

In particular, in certain cases, the user of the device takes the product with his finger. The finger comes directly into contact with the dispensing tip. In an alternative embodiment, the user applies his finger on the tip in order to clean it once the product is dispensed.

In order to overcome this problem, it is known to formulate the cosmetic product with a preservative making it possible to prevent the microbial proliferation. However, it is sometimes desirable to reduce, and even eliminate the quantity of preservative.

To this end, in order to guarantee the hygiene of the device, EP 2 301 378 describes a device of the aforementioned type, in which a protective member formed by an annular skirt is arranged around the tip in order to limit the contact between a limb of the user and the tip. In order to guarantee the absence of microbial contamination when the dispenser is not used, or when it is not in a product dispensing configuration, a removable obturator is arranged under the dispensing tip in the cavity delimited by the protective member. This obturator occupies a closed configuration at rest. Before product dispensing, when maneuvering the tip, the obturator opens in order to clear the space located under the dispensing orifice. Then, the obturator closes spontaneously once the dispensing is completed.

FR 2 835 812, EP 1 123 745, EP 1 017 601 , FR 2 637 870, US 6 364 166 and EP 0 81 1 563 describe dispensing devices wherein the dispensing tip is not protected. In these devices, the dispensing of a product in a certain range of angular positions is prevented by the blocking of a member for actuating the dispensing by a ball that is wedged between the actuating member and a fixed member.

However, the travel of the actuating member under normal operation depends on the height of the ball. The latter can hinder in certain cases the operation, either because the travel of the actuating member is too short, or because the ball interacts with the actuating member during its travel.

A purpose of the invention is to provide a cosmetic product dispenser that offers an adequate dispensing and without hinder of the product, while still guaranteeing a minimum risk of microbial contamination of the formula contained in the dispensing device.

To this end, the invention relates to a dispenser of the aforementioned type, characterized in that the dispenser contains a releasable mechanism for blocking the displacement of the mobile member from the first position towards the second position, with the blocking mechanism comprising a mobile blocking member under the effect of gravity,

with the blocking mechanism able to authorize the passage of the mobile member from its first position to its second position in a first range of inclinations of a central axis of the dispenser in relation to a vertical axis, and being able to prevent the passage of the mobile member from its first position to its second position outside of the first range of inclinations, beyond a limit angle of inclination, with the travel of the mobile member between the first position and the second position being independent of the height of the blocking member.

The dispenser according to the invention may comprise one or several of the following characteristics taken in isolation or in any technically possible combination:

- the mobile member is mobile in relation to the protective member over a travel between a first position preventing the dispensing of the product through the tip and a second position authorizing the dispensing of the product through the tip; - the fixed member is a protective member of the dispensing orifice intended to obstruct the contact between a surface of the body of the user of the dispenser and the dispensing orifice, with the protective member protruding towards the bottom beyond the tip by delimiting a lower opening for the dispensing of the cosmetic product;

- the blocking member is mobile under the effect of gravity in a housing between a released position, which it occupies when the inclination of the dispenser in relation to the vertical is in the first range of inclinations and a second blocked position of the mobile member that it occupies when the dispenser has an inclination located outside of the first range of inclinations;

- the housing delimits a first groove for receiving the blocking member in its released position, with the member received in the first groove in the released position, with the blocking member protruding at least partially outside of the first groove in the locked position;

- the blocking member is formed by a rolling member, advantageously a ball or a roller;

- in the second range of inclinations, the blocking member is able to be inserted between a fixed surface in relation to the fixed member and a surface capable of being moved jointly with the mobile member in order to prevent the displacement of the fixed surface in relation to the surface capable of being moved jointly with the mobile member, and in the first range of inclinations, the mobile member is free to move over its entire travel in relation to the fixed surface, without contact with the fixed surface;

- one of the mobile surface and fixed surface includes a region that is inclined in relation to a central axis of the dispenser, with the angle of inclination of the inclined region in an axial median plane passing through the central axis in relation to a plane perpendicular to the central axis being substantially equal to the limit angle of inclination.

- the blocking mechanism defines an additional mobile surface opposite the mobile surface, with the additional mobile surface being mobile jointly with the mobile member in order to push the blocking member towards its released position during a displacement of the mobile member towards its first position;

- the tip can be moved in relation to the fixed member between a resting position, a pre-dispensing position, wherein the dispensing orifice is closed off, and a product dispensing position wherein the dispensing orifice is open in order to allow for the flow via gravity of the product on the receiving surface through the dispensing orifice, with the displacement of the tip between its resting position and the pre-dispensing position causing the displacement of the mobile member from its first position to its second position; - it includes an obturator, advantageously received in the fixed member, with the obturator able to be maneuvered between a closed configuration that closes off the volume located under the tip opposite the dispensing orifice and an open dispensing configuration, wherein the volume located under the dispensing orifice is clear,

with the blocking mechanism able to authorize the passage of the obturator from its closed configuration to its open configuration in a first range of inclinations of a central axis of the dispenser in relation to a vertical axis, and being able to prevent the passage of the obturator from its closed configuration to its open configuration outside of the first range of inclinations, beyond a limit angle of inclination;

- the mobile member is a member for actuating the obturator conformed so that the displacement of the mobile member between the first position and the second position causes the passage of the obturator from the closed configuration to the open configuration, with the mobile member advantageously including a tab for actuating the obturator able to cooperate with the obturator;

- it includes a support bearing the obturator, with at least a portion of the fixed surface delimited on the support bearing the obturator;

- the fixed member includes a peripheral protective wall delimiting an internal receiving cavity of the obturator, with the obturator protruding in the internal cavity.

The invention also relates to a product dispensing device, comprising a receptacle, intended to contain the cosmetic product, and a dispenser such as described hereinabove, mounted at a lower end of the receptacle.

The device according to the invention may comprise one or several of the following characteristics taken in isolation or in any technically possible combination:

- the receptacle is installed free to move in relation to the fixed member of the dispenser between a resting position and an actuating position of the dispensing, with the displacement of the receptacle causing the passage of the mobile member from its first position to its second position;

- the receptacle is installed fixed in relation to the fixed member, with the device comprising a mechanism for actuating the dispensing of the product arranged in the receptacle, with the actuating mechanism advantageously comprising a lateral button for actuating the dispensing of the product.

The invention will be easier to understand in view of the following description, provided solely as an example, and with reference to the appended drawings, wherein:

- figure 1 is a side view of a first cosmetic product dispensing device, including a dispenser according to the invention; - figure 2 is a sectional view according to a vertical mid-plane, of the dispenser in figure 1 , in a resting configuration with the obturator closed;

- figure 3 is a view similar to figure 2, during the dispensing of the cosmetic product;

- figure 4 is a view similar to figure 3, with the dispenser inclined in relation to the horizontal, with the blocking mechanism of the dispenser active;

- figure 5 is a view of a detail marked V in figure 2;

- figure 6 is a view similar to figure 5 of a detailed marked VI in figure 4;

- figure 7 is a view similar to figure 5, during a return to the vertical of the dispenser;

- figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of the various internal components of the dispenser in figure 1 ; and

- figure 9 is a view similar to figure 2 of a second device according to the invention;

- figures 10 and 1 1 are perspective views of the obturator, respectively in closed configuration and in open configuration;

- figure 12 is a view similar to figure 2 of a third device according to the invention;

- figure 13 is a view similar to figure 4 of the third device according to the invention; and

- figure 14 is a view similar to figure 3 of a fourth device according to the invention. A first device 10 for dispensing a cosmetic product 1 1 over a surface 12 is shown in figures 1 to 8.

As shown in these figures, the device 10 includes a receptacle 14 for receiving the product 1 1 , and a dispenser 16 according to the invention. The device 10 extends according to a general axis of extension A-A', shown as being vertical in figure 1 .

The dispenser 16 is advantageously mounted at lower axial end of the receptacle 14, in order to be placed between the receptacle 14 and the distribution surface 12.

The cosmetic product 1 1 is advantageously in fluid form. It is formed by a liquid, cream, gel, paste, or possibly a powder intended to be applied on a surface of the body of a user such as the skin or keratin fibers.

The cosmetic product 1 1 has advantageously a viscosity between 30 poises and 100 poises.

In an alternative, the cosmetic product 1 1 is does not have a preservative able to prevent bacterial proliferation. The preservatives are for example alcohols, glycols, parabens, benzoic acids, sodium benzoate, sorbic acid, potassium sorbate, salicylic acid, sodium salicylate, phenoxy ethanol, chlorine phenelzine. More generally, these agents are described in the work "International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary Handbook", Seventh Edition, Volume II, pages 1654 and 1655.

The receiving surface 12 is for example delimited in a receptacle, such as a cup or a dish, or on an application tool, for the purpose of applying the cosmetic product on a surface of the body of the user.

In an alternative embodiment, the receiving surface 12 is the surface of the body whereon the cosmetic product is to be applied.

The receptacle 14 contains at least one reservoir 20 for receiving the cosmetic product 1 1 and an exterior cover 22 intended to conceal the reservoir 20 or to delimit it.

In the example shown in the figures, the reservoir 20 is formed by a flexible pocket 24 arranged in the cover 22. The cosmetic product 1 1 does not come into contact with the cover 22.

The pocket 24 is for example a flexible pocket resulting from air-blown injection molding or air-blown extrusion molding, or a welded film, whether or not metal, on a tip, or a co-extruded bottle made from two non-adherent materials.

In an alternative (not shown), the reservoir 20 is delimited directly by the cover 22, with the cosmetic product 1 1 then being in contact with the cover 22.

The reservoir 20 is provided downstream with a member 26 for connecting to the dispenser 16. Advantageously, the connecting member 26 makes it possible to install the reservoir 20 free to move on the dispenser 16 in order to be able to replace it, in particular when it no longer contains a sufficient amount of cosmetic product 1 1 .

In this example, the receptacle 14 is installed free to move in relation to the dispenser 16 between a resting position, shown in figure 2 and an actuating position of the dispensing, shown in figure 3.

In this embodiment, the receptacle 14 is installed sliding along the axis A-A' in relation to the dispenser 16, between the resting position and the actuating position.

The length of the receptacle 14 projecting outside the dispenser 16 in the resting position is greater than the length of the receptacle 14 projecting outside the dispenser 16 in the actuating position.

In the example shown in the figures, the dispenser 16 extends generally according to the axis of extension A-A', which is shown as being vertical in figure 2.

As shown in figures 2, 3 and 8, the dispenser 16 includes a tip 30 for dispensing the product, a member 32 for protecting and supporting the tip 30. It advantageously comprises an obturator 34 for protecting the tip 30 received in the protective member 32, and a member 36 for actuating the obturator 34. According to the invention, the dispenser 16 further comprises a releasable mechanism 38 for blocking the dispensing of the product, able to authorize the dispensing of the product in a first range of angular inclinations of the axis A-A' of the dispenser 16 in relation to a vertical axis, and able to prevent the dispensing of the product for any inclination of the axis A-A' of the dispenser 16 outside of the first range of inclinations, beyond a limit angle of inclination.

In this example, the blocking mechanism 38 is able to authorize the opening of the obturator 34 in the first range of inclinations, and is able to prevent the opening of the obturator 34 for any inclination of the axis A-A' of the dispenser 16 outside of the first range of inclinations, beyond a limit angle of inclination.

As shown in figures 2, 3 and 4, the protective member 32 comprises an exterior peripheral wall 40 delimiting a cavity 42 for receiving the tip. The cavity 42 is opened downward by an opening 44 for the dispensing of the cosmetic product.

The wall 40 extends around the axis A-A' between a lower edge 45A visible in figure 1 and an upper edge 45B. It advantageously revolves about the axis A-A'.

In this example, the protective member 32 further comprises a lower wall 46 and an inner protrusion 48 intended to support the releasable mechanism 38.

The lower opening for dispensing 44 is delimited externally by the lower edge 45A.

The exterior wall 40 is solid. In an alternative embodiment, the exterior wall 40 is partially perforated. It then comprises openings that can extend as far as the lower edge 45A.

The lower wall 46 advantageously protrudes into the cavity 42. It is for example of tapered shape. It delimits an intermediate opening 50 for the passage of the obturator 34.

The intermediate opening 50 is located across from the lower opening for dispensing 44 around the axis A-A'. The maximum transverse span of the intermediate opening 50 is lower than 50% of the maximum transverse opening of the dispensing opening 44.

The protrusion 48 is intended in particular for supporting the blocking mechanism 38. It extends parallel to the axis A-A' as far as a free edge 52 arranged in the cavity.

In this example, the protrusion 48 as such forms a tubular skirt of axis A-A'.

The tip 30 is arranged in the receiving cavity 42. It is connected upstream of the reservoir 20.

The tip 30 comprises a support 60 and a flexible valve 62 supported by the support 60. The valve 62 defines a dispensing orifice 64. In this example, the tip 30 further comprises a pump 66 for conveying the product from the reservoir 20 towards the valve 62. In an alternative, the tip 30 is a rigid dispensing tip of the PB type or is integral with the member 36

In this example, as shown in figure 8, the support 60 is formed by a ring. The support 60 as such includes a transverse wall 70 carrying the valve 62 and the pump 66, and a lower skirt 72 protruding downwards from the transverse wall 70. The skirt 72 delimits a beveled lower edge 74.

The valve 62 can be deformed, during the displacement of the tip 30, between a rest configuration, wherein the dispensing orifice 64 is closed off and an opening configuration of the dispensing orifice 64.

The dispensing orifice 64 is able to open opposite the lower dispensing opening 44 along the axis A-A'.

As shall be seen hereinbelow, the tip 30 is installed free to move in the cavity 42, advantageously along the axis A-A', between an upper resting position, wherein the obturator 34 and the dispensing orifice 64 are closed, an intermediate pre-dispensing position, wherein the obturator 34 is open and the dispensing orifice 64 is closed, and a configuration for dispensing the product, wherein the obturator 34 and the dispensing orifice 64 are open.

The pump 66, when it is present, is for example of the airless dispensing type.

The connecting member 26 is engaged in a sealed manner around the pump 66.

In reference to figure 8, the obturator 34 comprises at least one movable flap 80. In this example, the obturator 34 comprises two movable flaps 80 arranged opposite one another. The number of flaps 80 can be more generally greater than two.

In this example, the flaps 80 have the shape of a quarter of a sphere.

As shown in figures 2 and 3, the obturator 34 can be maneuvered between a closed configuration, shown in figure 2, wherein the or each flap 80 closes off downwards the space located in the cavity 42 under the dispensing orifice 64, and an open configuration, wherein the or each flap 80 delimits a clear passage for the circulation of the cosmetic product extending under the dispensing orifice 64.

In the closed configuration shown in figure 2, the adjacent edges of the flaps 80 are in contact with one another to axially close off downwards the volume located under the dispensing orifice 64.

In the open configuration, shown in figure 3, the lateral edges of the flaps 80 are separated from each other in order to clear the volume located under the orifice 64.

The actuating member 36 comprises a ring 90, elastic return members 92 and advantageously, an interior sleeve 94 for guiding the tip 30. It further comprises members 95 for displacing each flap 80. The ring 90 comprises an exterior sleeve 96 and an upper flange 98. It is inserted between the tip 30 and the obturator 34.

The elastic members 92 are protruding from the flange 98. They are for example formed by elastically deformable blades.

The interior sleeve for guiding 94 is arranged in the exterior sleeve 96.

The interior sleeve 94 is made of a deformable material. The tip 30 is inserted in the interior sleeve 94. In particular, the valve 62 is received in the interior sleeve 94. It is able to be displaced along the axis A-A' in relation to the interior sleeve 94.

The members 95 for displacement 36 are protruding from the ring 90. They are for example formed by displacement tabs, advantageously able to separate the flaps 80 from one another.

The actuating member 36 can be displaced jointly with the dispensing tip 30 between the resting position, forming a first position of the member 36 and the intermediate pre-dispensing position, forming a second position of the member 36.

It as such forms a mobile member over a travel along the axis A-A' between the first position and the second position.

Beyond the intermediate pre-dispensing position, the dispensing tip 30 moves downwards in relation to the actuating member 36 as far as the dispensing position, with the actuating member 36 remaining fixed in relation to the protective member 32.

The releasable mechanism for blocking 38 comprises a fixed portion 98A fixed in relation to the protective member 40, and a portion 98B mobile jointly with the tip 30.

It further comprises a blocking member 100, mobile under the effect of its weight in a housing 102 formed between the fixed portion 98A and the mobile portion 98B.

In this example, the fixed portion 98A comprises the protrusion 48 and a support 104 advantageously supporting the obturator 34.

The support 104 is braced on the protrusion 48. It is of tubular shape. As can be seen in figure 8, the support 104 comprises an intermediate blocking edge 106 and an upper edge 108 for maintaining the blocking member 100 upwards.

As shown in figures 5, 6 and 7, the fixed portion 98A of the blocking mechanism 38 delimits a first groove 1 10 for receiving the blocking member 100. The first groove 1 10 is delimited upwards by an inclined upper surface 1 12 formed on the upper edge 108. It is delimited downwards by a lower bearing surface 1 14 of the blocking member 100 formed on the free edge of the protrusion 48 and on the intermediary edge 106.

As shown in figures 5 and 6, the lower surface 1 14 as such comprises, from the exterior towards the interior by moving towards the axis A-A', a first plane region 1 16, intended for the bracing of the blocking member 100, an intermediate region 1 18 inclined towards the dispensing opening 44, and a second interior plane region 120.

The width of the first plane region 1 16, taken perpendicularly to the axis A-A' is less than that of the inclined region 1 18 of the second plane region 120.

The inclined region 1 18 has an angle of inclination, taken in relation to a plane perpendicular to the axis A-A', substantially equal to the limit angle of inclination from which the blocking mechanism 38 is activated. This angle is for example between 15 ⁰ and 40 °. It is in any case greater than 10 °.

The width of the first groove 1 10, taken along the axis A-A', is substantially equal to the width of the blocking member 100. As such, the blocking member 100 is able to be received in the first groove 1 10, without transversally exceeding the latter, allowing for the free displacement of the mobile portion 98B in relation to the fixed portion 98A.

The mobile portion 98B delimits a second exterior groove 132 intended to be placed opposite the first groove 1 10 in order to form the housing 102.

As shown in figures 5, 6 and 7, the mobile portion 98B comprises an exterior mobile member 130 arranged around the tip 30 and in this example, the lower skirt 72 of the support 60 of the tip 30.

The exterior mobile member 130 is advantageously formed by an exterior band

134.

The band 134 delimits an upper peripheral wall 136 and a lower peripheral wall 138. The lower peripheral wall 138 has a transversal dimension, taken perpendicularly to the axis A-A', less than that of the exterior wall 136.

The upper peripheral wall 136 is engaged around the skirt 72. It delimits upwards a shoulder 140 of axial bracing of the support 60 of the tip 30.

The lower peripheral wall 138 is mounted slidingly around the protrusion 48. It delimits, with the upper peripheral wall 140, a lower shoulder 142 intended for blocking the member 100.

The lower shoulder 142 extends opposite the free lower edge 74 of the lower skirt

72.

The second groove 132 is defined between an upper surface 144 defined on the free edge 74 and an inner surface defined on the lower shoulder 142. It has a width less than the width of the blocking member 100, taken along the axis A-A' and a height that is substantially equal to that of the first groove 1 10.

When the tip 30 occupies its resting position, and the mobile member 36 occupies its first position the second groove 132 is located opposite the first groove 1 10. The housing 102 then extends continuously along an axis B-B' inclined in relation to a plane perpendicular to the axis A-A' by an angle substantially corresponding to the limit angle of inclination a.

In this configuration, the blocking member 100 is free to move in the housing between an interior resting position, shown in figure 5, wherein it is received substantially entirely in the first groove 1 10, and a blocking position wherein it protrudes partially outside of the first groove 1 10 in order to be received in the second groove 132.

When the blocking member 100 occupies its resting position, the mobile portion 98B is able to slide in relation to the fixed portion 98A along the axis A-A' jointly with the tip 30 and with the mobile member 36 between the resting position, the pre-dispensing position, and the product dispensing position.

Note that the mobile member 36 is free to move in relation to the blocking member 100 and in relation to the fixed lower surface 1 14 over its entire travel between its first position and its second position without coming into contact with the blocking member 100, or with the fixed lower surface 1 14.

The travel of the mobile member 36 is therefore entirely independent of the height of the blocking member. This makes it possible to adjust the travel optimally, without having any constraint linked to the blocking member 100.

In addition, neither the blocking member 100 in its resting position, or the fixed surface 1 14 come into contact with the mobile member 36 during its travel, in particular in its first position and in its second position, contrary to devices of prior art for which a contact occurs between the mobile member and the fixed surface or with the blocking member in the second position of the mobile member.

The travel of the mobile member 36 taken along the axis A-A' between the first position and the second position is as such advantageously greater than the height of the blocking member 100 taken along the same axis.

The surface 144 capable of being moved is as such able to be placed axially opposite the fixed surface 1 14, above the latter, in the first position of the member 36, then pass axially opposite the fixed surface 1 14, under the latter in the second position of the member 36.

In the product pre-dispensing and dispensing positions, the second groove 132 is axially offset in relation to the first groove 1 10 as shown in figure 3.

The blocking member 100 is in this example formed by a rolling member, and in particular by a ball.

The ball is able to roll in the housing 102 under the effect of gravity. The blocking member 100 has a maximum transversal dimension less than the height of the housing 102, and less than the width of the housing 102 when the grooves 1 10, 132 are located opposite one another.

The operation of the device 10 shall now be described.

Initially, during its storage, the device 10 is maintained substantially vertical, with its axis of extension A-A' extending vertically.

In this position, the blocking mechanism 38 is inactive. To this end, the first groove 1 10 is located substantially opposite and slightly under the second groove 132. Under the effect of its weight, the blocking member 100 is received in the first groove 1 10. It is braced at the bottom of this groove 1 10, and does not extend beyond the groove 1 10.

The mobile portion 98B formed in this example by the skirt 72 and by the band 134 is then free to move jointly with the tip 30 along the axis A-A'.

The mobile member 36 is also free to move over its entire travel in relation to the blocking member 100, without contact with the fixed surface 1 16.

When the user desires to dispense the cosmetic product 1 1 contained in the reservoir 20, he actuates the receptacle 14 in order to displace it longitudinally according to the axis A-A' towards the dispenser 16.

This displacement of the receptacle 14 displaces the tip 30 towards the lower dispensing opening 44.

During this displacement, the tip 30 passes successively from its resting position to its pre-dispensing position. It pushes the actuating member 36 towards the lower opening 44 against the elastic actuation members 92.

The members 95 for displacing the flaps 80 come into contact with the flaps 80 in order to open them by separating them transversally in relation to one another.

The obturator 34 therefore passes from its closed configuration to its open configuration.

When the actuating member 36 is braced axially in relation to the protective member 32, advantageously pressing on the support 104, the displacement of the tip 30 towards the opening 44 continues from the pre-dispensing position towards the product dispensing position.

The valve 62 then slides in the guide sleeve 94 and the dispensing orifice 64 opens. The pump 66 dispenses the cosmetic product 1 1 contained inside the reservoir 20 through the tip 30.

The cosmetic product 1 1 then flows freely via gravity from the dispensing orifice 64 through the cavity 62, between the flaps 80 of the obturator 34, through the intermediate opening 50 when it is present, then through the lower dispensing opening 44. The cosmetic product is then collected on the receiving surface 12.

When the user releases the receptacle 14, the latter returns to its resting position.

The displacement of the tip 30 from its dispensing position, towards its pre- dispensing position then towards its resting position is advantageously caused by the return of the pump 66. This displacement can also be caused in part by the elasticity of the obturator 34, or under the effect of the force generated by the elastic members 92.

The actuating member 36 rises along the axis A-A' and the tip 30 is displaced from its resting position shown in figure 2.

The flaps 80 of the obturator close spontaneously so that the obturator again occupies its closed configuration, preventing the contact between the limbs of the user and the dispensing orifice 64.

If the user pivots the axis A-A' of the device 10 beyond the limit angle of inclination, in an attempt to access the dispensing orifice 64, the blocking member 100 moves away from the axis A-A' from the first groove 1 10 towards the second groove 132 by rolling on the inclined region 1 18 (see Figure 6). The blocking member 100 is then braced against the bottom of the second groove 132 between the upper surface 144 defined on the mobile portion 98B and the first plane region 1 16 of the lower surface 1 14 present on the fixed portion 98A.

If the user tries to displace the tip 30 towards the pre-dispensing position, the skirt 72 and the band 134 move jointly towards the dispensing opening 44 causing the joint displacement of the upper surface 144 towards the dispensing opening 44.

The upper surface 144 stops against the blocking member 100. The blocking member 100 is then braced between the first plane region 1 16 and the upper surface 144, which prevents the displacement downwards of the tip 30 and of the actuating member 36.

The tip 30 is therefore unable to reach its pre-dispensing position. In addition, the obturator 34 remains blocked in its closed configuration, preventing the user from accessing the dispensing orifice 64.

The presence of the blocking mechanism 38 therefore improves the safety of use of the cosmetic product 1 1 , by suppressing any possibility for the user to reach the dispensing orifice 64, in particular when the user turns over the device 10.

The synergy between the obturator 34 and the releasable mechanism 38 for blocking, makes it possible to obtain a dispenser 16 that is particularly reliable for use, in particular when a cosmetic product 1 1 containing a low quantity of preservative, or that does not have any preservative is used. Once in the configuration in figure 4, when the user releases the receptacle 14, the mobile portion 98B rises along the axis A-A'. The lower shoulder 142 then stops against the blocking member 100 as shown in figure 7. This contributes to the unblocking of the blocking member 100 in order to move it to its resting position received in the first groove 1 10.

A second device 150 according to the invention is shown in figure 9. Contrary to the first device 10, the receptacle 14 is installed fixed axially along the axis A-A' in relation to the dispenser 16.

The device 150 comprises a mechanism 152 for actuating the dispensing of product which is arranged partially in the receptacle 14. This mechanism 152 comprises at least an actuating button 154 connected to the tip 30 by at least one transmission member 156.

In the example shown in figure 9, the mechanism 152 comprises two opposite actuating buttons 154. The buttons 154 are installed free to move in transversal openings 156 arranged through the cover 22. Each button 154 is connected to the tip 30 by a transmission member 158.

Each transmission member 158 advantageously comprises two blades 158A, 158B forming a V.

The first blade 158A has an interior end 160A fixed on the reservoir 20 and an exterior end 160B connected to a second blade 158B. The second blade 158B comprises an interior end 162A connected to the tip 30 and an exterior end 162B integral with the first blade 158A. The exterior ends 160B, 162B define a top of the V, arranged pressing against the actuating button 154.

To displace the tip 30 from its resting position, shown in figure 9 to the pre- dispensing position, then to the dispensing position, the user presses on the buttons 154 to bring them closer to the axis A-A'.

This press causes the separation of each first blade 158A from the second blade 158B and the increase in the angle formed between the blades 158A, 158B. This causes a thrust on the tip 30 exerted along the axis A-A'. The tip 30 is then moved as far as its pre-dispensing position, then as far as its dispensing position as described previously.

A third device 300 according to the invention is shown in figure 12. Contrary to the first device 10 and the second device 150, the first groove 1 10 for receiving the blocking member 100 is a groove located externally in relation to the second groove 132 delimited by the mobile portion 98B.

As such, the lower surface 142 of the second groove 132 has a conformation comprising a first plane region intended for the bracing of the blocking member and an intermediate region inclined towards the dispensing opening 44. The inclined region has an angle of inclination, taken in relation to a plane perpendicular to the axis A-A', substantially equal to the limit angle of inclination from which the blocking mechanism 38 is activated.

The second groove 132 is advantageously arranged in the support 60 of the tip 30. Contrary to the device 10 shown in figures 1 and 2, when the dispenser 16 has an inclination located in the first range of inclination, the blocking member 100 occupies a resting position received in the second groove 132 of the mobile portion 98B. The mobile portion 98B is then free to move jointly with the tip 30 along the axis A-A'. The blocking member 100 is then displaced jointly with the mobile portion 98B, with the tip 30, and with the mobile member 36.

On the contrary, when the dispenser occupies an inclination located outside of the first range of inclination, beyond a limit angle of inclination, the mobile member 100 is partially received in the first groove 1 10 and is partially extracted outside of the second groove 132 on the mobile portion 98B. The displacement of the mobile portion 98B, of the tip 30, and of the mobile member 36 is then prevented by bracing of the blocking member between the lower surface 1 14 of the first groove 1 10 and the upper surface 144 of the second groove 132, as can be seen in figure 13.

A fourth device according to the invention is shown in figure 14. Contrary to the third device 300, the device 310 does not have an obturator 34.

In an alternative (not shown), the displacement of the tip 30 towards its pre- dispensing position, and towards the dispensing position is provided by the rotating of the receptacle 14 in relation to the dispenser 16 with or without rotation of the receptacle 14.

In other alternatives (not shown), accessories can be associated with the device 10. As such, the device 10 can comprise a cup, a dish or a lid delimiting a receiving surface 18.

In yet another alternative (not shown), the device 10 comprises means for cooling, or means for heating the product 1 1 .

In another alternatives (not shown), the passing of the obturator 34 between its closed configuration and its open configuration is caused by means of control comprising an elastic spring made of plastic, metal or elastomer.

In yet other alternatives, the obturator 34 is formed by a flap, a curtain, a diaphragm, a guillotine, a fan or a petal.

In other alternatives, the dispenser 16 does not have an obturator 34.

In an alternative, the dispenser 16 does not have a member for protecting the dispensing orifice 64 protruding downwards beyond the tip 30. The term "one" must be understood as meaning "at least one" unless otherwise indicated.

Claims

1 . - Cosmetic product dispenser (16), of the type comprising:

- a tip (30) defining a product dispensing orifice (64), able to open opposite a receiving surface (12) arranged under the tip (30);

- fixed member (32);

- a member (36) that is free to move in relation to the fixed member (32) over a distance between a first position and a second position;

characterized in that the dispenser (16) contains a releasable mechanism (38) for blocking the displacement of the mobile member (36) from the first position towards the second position, with the blocking mechanism (38) comprising a mobile blocking member (100) under the effect of gravity,

with the blocking mechanism (38) being able to authorize the passage of the mobile member (36) from its first position to its second position in a first range of inclinations of a central axis (Α-Α') of the dispenser (16) in relation to a vertical axis, and being able to prevent the passage of the mobile member (36) from its first position to its second position outside of the first range of inclinations, beyond a limit angle of inclination, with the travel of the mobile member (36) between the first position and the second position being independent of the height of the blocking member (100).

2. - Dispenser according to claim 1 , characterized in that the fixed member (32) is a protective member of the dispensing orifice (64) intended to obstruct the contact between a surface of the body of the user of the dispenser (10) and the dispensing orifice (64), with the protective member protruding towards the bottom beyond the tip (30) by delimiting a lower opening (44) for the dispensing of the cosmetic product;

3. - Dispenser (16) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the blocking member (100) is mobile under the effect of gravity in a housing (102) between a released position, which it occupies when the inclination of the dispenser (16) in relation to the vertical is in the first range of inclinations and a second blocked position of the mobile member (36) that it occupies when the dispenser (16) has an inclination located outside of the first range of inclinations.

4. - Dispenser (16) according to claim 3, characterized in that the housing (102) delimits a first groove (1 10) for receiving the blocking member (100) in its released position, with the blocking member (100) received in the first groove (1 10) in the released position, with the blocking member (100) protruding at least partially outside of the first groove (1 10) in the locked position.

5. - Dispenser (16) according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the blocking member (100) is formed by a rolling member, advantageously a ball or a roller.

6. - Dispenser (16) according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that in the second range of inclinations, the blocking member (100) is able to be inserted between a fixed surface (1 16) in relation to a fixed member (32) and a surface (144) that can be displaced jointly with the mobile member (36) in order to prevent the displacement of the fixed surface (1 16) in relation to the surface (144) that can be displaced jointly with the mobile member (36), and in that in the first range of inclinations, the mobile member (36) is free to move over its entire travel in relation to the fixed surface (1 16), without contact with the fixed surface (1 16).

7. - Dispenser (16) according to claim 6, characterized in that one of the mobile surface and fixed surface includes a region that is inclined (1 18) in relation to a central axis (Α-Α') of the dispenser, with the angle of inclination of the inclined region (1 18) in an axial median plane passing through the central axis (Α-Α') in relation to a plane perpendicular to the central axis (Α-Α') being substantially equal to the limit angle of inclination.

8. - Dispenser (16) according to any of claims 6 to 7, characterized in that the blocking member (38) defines an additional mobile surface (142) opposite the mobile surface (144), with the additional mobile surface (142) being mobile jointly with the mobile member (36) in order to push the blocking member (100) towards its released position during a displacement of the mobile member (36) towards its first position.

9. - Dispenser (16) according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the tip (30) can be moved in relation to the fixed member (32) between a resting position, a pre-dispensing position, wherein the dispensing orifice (64) is closed off, and a product dispensing position wherein the dispensing orifice (64) is open in order to allow for the flow via gravity of the product on the receiving surface (12) through the dispensing orifice (64), with the displacement of the tip (30) between its resting position and the pre- dispensing position causing the displacement of the mobile member (36) from its first position to its second position.

10. - Dispenser (16) according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that it includes an obturator (34), advantageously received in the fixed member (32), with the obturator (34) able to be maneuvered between a closed configuration that closes off the volume located under the tip (30) opposite the dispensing orifice (64) and an open dispensing configuration, wherein the volume located under the dispensing orifice (64) is clear, with the blocking mechanism (38) being able to authorize the passage of the obturator (34) from its closed configuration to its open configuration in a first range of inclinations of a central axis (Α-Α') of the dispenser (16) in relation to a vertical axis, and being able to prevent the passage of the obturator (34) from its closed configuration to its open configuration outside of the first range of inclinations, beyond a limit angle of inclination.

1 1 . - Dispenser (16) according to claim 10, characterized in that the mobile member (36) is a member for actuating the obturator (34) conformed so that the displacement of the mobile member (36) between the first position and the second position causes the passage of the obturator (34) from the closed configuration to the open configuration, with the mobile member (36) advantageously including a tab (95) for actuating the obturator (34) able to cooperate with the obturator (34).

12. - Dispenser (16) according to any one of claims 10 to 1 1 , taken in combination with claim 6, characterized in that it includes a support (104) bearing the obturator (134), with at least a portion of the fixed surface (1 14) delimited on the support (104) bearing the obturator (134).

13. - Dispenser (16) according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the fixed member (32) comprises a protective peripheral wall (40) delimiting an internal cavity (42) for receiving the obturator (36), with the obturator (36) protruding in the internal cavity (42).

14. - Device (10; 150; 300; 310) for dispensing a product, comprising a receptacle (14), intended to contain the cosmetic product, and a dispenser (16) according to any one of the previous claims, mounted at a lower end of the receptacle (14)

15. - Device (10; 300; 310) according to claim 14, characterized in that the receptacle (14) is installed free to move in relation to the fixed member (32) of the dispenser (16) between a resting position and an actuating position of the dispensing, with the displacement of the receptacle (14) causing the passage of the mobile member (36) from its first position to its second position.

16. - Device (150) according to claim 14, characterized in that the receptacle (14) is installed fixed in relation to the fixed member (32), with the device comprising a mechanism (152) for actuating the dispensing of the product arranged in the receptacle (14), with the actuating mechanism (152) advantageously comprising a lateral button (154) for actuating the dispensing of the product.