3D-Printed Artificial Eyelash Segments for Longer Wear Time

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing artificial eyelashes have a relatively short lifespan and require frequent replacement due to limited adhesion surface area and construction, leading to wear time limitations.

Innovation Solution

The development of monolithic eyelash segments formed via 3D printing, featuring integrally formed artificial lash hairs and coupling members that mechanically engage with natural lashes, increasing adhesion surface area without adhesives.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Duration of action of moving object

If traditional artificial eyelashes are used with limited adhesion surface area, then application is simple, but wear time is short and frequent replacement is needed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewear timeVSAvoidadhesion surface area

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of moving objectVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from traditional 2D flat eyelash bands to a 3D monolithic structure with coupling members extending in multiple directions. The coupling members project from the base structure in a transverse direction, creating a three-dimensional engagement architecture that increases adhesion surface area without compromising application simplicity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The eyelash structure is divided into distinct functional components: a base structure for support, coupling members for mechanical engagement with natural lashes, and artificial lash hairs for cosmetic effect. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together as an integrated monolithic unit

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If traditional artificial eyelashes with adhesive bonding are used, then construction is simple, but reliability is poor and frequent replacement is required

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovedurabilityVSAvoidconstruction

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functions into a single monolithic structure: the base structure, coupling members, and artificial lash hairs are integrally formed as one piece using 3D printing. This merging eliminates the need for separate adhesive applications and multiple component assemblies, improving reliability while maintaining construction simplicity through additive manufacturing

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces chemical adhesion (adhesives) with mechanical engagement through coupling members that physically interlock with natural lashes. This substitution provides more reliable and durable attachment that does not depend on adhesive bonding strength or curing time

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Strength

If adhesive bonding is used to attach artificial eyelashes, then application process is simple, but adhesion strength is insufficient leading to frequent replacement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadhesion strengthVSAvoidapplication process

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces chemical adhesion with mechanical interlocking through coupling members that engage with natural lashes. The coupling members extend between natural lashes and provide physical anchoring, eliminating the need for adhesives while significantly improving attachment strength and reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling members are designed to automatically engage with natural lashes through their geometric configuration, requiring no additional adhesive application steps. The monolithic structure allows the coupling members to self-position and self-engage with the natural lashes during application, maintaining ease of operation while improving adhesion strength

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enhances wear time and durability by improving the structural coupling between artificial and natural lashes through increased surface area and mechanical engagement, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Implementation Method 1

The base structure, the set of individual artificial lash hairs, and the array of coupling members are integrally formed using a three-dimensional (3D) printing process

Methodology Applied

Scientific Effect3D Printing: 3D Printing

Data Source

PatentUS20250331590A1Artificial eyelash segment system

Publication Date: 2025.10.30 TAD BEAUTY INC

AI summary

Embodiments described herein relate to an artificial eyelash system, such as an artificial eyelash segment having integrally-formed artificial hairs and a base structure with an array of coupling members, and/or a support frame defining a spine, engagement features, and an array of coupling members integrally formed. In some cases, the artificial eyelash segment and/or the support frame may be formed using a three-dimensional printing process or similar manufacturing techniques. The array of coupling members may protrude from the base structure in a direction towards the wearer's natural eyelashes to increase an available surface area that bonds to the wearer's natural eyelashes and thereby increases the wear time of the artificial eyelash system.