3D Profile Cosmetic Applicator Stem for Symmetrical Eyelash Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current cosmetic applicators, particularly for mascara and eyeliner, have suboptimal ergonomics, making it difficult to access all eyelashes evenly and symmetrically, especially the lower eyelid and outer and inner corners, leading to irregular makeup when using one hand.

Innovation Solution

A cosmetic applicator with a stem that extends in all three dimensions, featuring bends and an elastically deformable design, allowing for easy access to all eyelash regions and preventing the 'hollow chimney' effect by stirring the product, combined with a gripping member and applicator element for symmetrical application.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the stem has a two-dimensional profile (curved or bent in one plane), then the applicator can negotiate anatomical obstacles, but the ergonomics are not optimal for accessing all eyelash regions symmetrically

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to negotiate anatomical obstaclesVSAvoidergonomics for symmetrical eye makeup
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a two-dimensional curved stem to a three-dimensional stem profile that extends in all three dimensions of space. This dimensional change allows the stem to access previously unreachable areas (lower eyelid, inner and outer corners) while maintaining optimal ergonomics for symmetrical application on both eyes using the same hand.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the applicator element is off-axis with respect to the stem, then the applicator can access lower eyelid and corner areas, but the symmetry and ease of use for both eyes deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess to lower eyelid and corner areasVSAvoidsymmetry of makeup application
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

By introducing a three-dimensional stem profile with bends in multiple planes rather than a single-plane offset, the applicator achieves access to lower eyelid and corner areas while maintaining rotational symmetry that allows identical application technique on both eyes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Stability of the object's composition

If the stem is rigid, then the applicator structure is stable, but the applicator cannot adapt to different eyelash regions and anatomical variations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stability of applicatorVSAvoidadaptability to different eyelash regions
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces elastic deformability to the stem, allowing it to dynamically adapt its shape during application to reach different eyelash regions (lower lid, inner/outer corners) while maintaining sufficient structural stability for controlled application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The stem's physical parameter of rigidity is modified to include elastic deformability, enabling the applicator to change its shape adaptively while maintaining overall structural integrity for stable operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Adaptability or versatility

If the applicator element forms a non-zero angle with the stem, then the applicator can reach corner areas, but the overall ergonomics and symmetry for bilateral application worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess to outer and inner third eyelashesVSAvoidcomfort of hand movements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses three-dimensional stem profiling with strategically positioned bends to achieve corner access, eliminating the need for awkward wrist, hand, or shoulder movements that would be required with simple angular offsets.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS10492589B2Applicator having a stem with a three-dimensional profile
Publication Date: 2019.12.03 LOREAL SA
  • US10492589B2 patent drawing
  • US10492589B2 patent drawing
  • US10492589B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The subject of the invention is a cosmetic applicator, in particular for the eyelashes or the contour of the eyes, comprising:a gripping member,an applicator element,a stem connecting the gripping member and the applicator element, the axis of the stem extending in all three dimensions of space.