Adjustable Applicator Assembly for Variable Bristle Density

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional cosmetic applicators have fixed bristle densities, limiting user flexibility in applying varying amounts of product, and existing adjustable solutions are inefficient for both product transfer and lash separation.

Innovation Solution

An adjustable applicator assembly with movable applicator heads that allow for varying bristle density by adjusting the spacing between bristles, comprising a gripping member, stem, and actuator mechanism, enabling user-defined application densities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If fixed bristle density is used in conventional applicators, then manufacturing is simple and reliable, but user flexibility in applying varying amounts of product is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser flexibility in applying varying amounts of productVSAvoidapplicator structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The applicator head incorporates movable applicator sections that can shift relative to each other along the longitudinal axis, transforming the static bristle density into a dynamic configuration. This allows the same applicator to provide different bristle densities (sparse or dense) by adjusting the spacing between applicator sections, thereby improving adaptability without requiring multiple different applicators.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The applicator head is divided into multiple movable applicator sections (first applicator section, second applicator section) that can independently move relative to each other. This segmentation enables flexible adjustment of bristle spacing while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If zoned mascara brush with fixed density zones is used, then product deposition and lash separation properties are provided, but the area of the brush to be used is limited and cannot provide different bristle densities at different times

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoption of getting two different bristle densities in the same brush at two different timesVSAvoidarea of the brush to be used
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The applicator sections can move from a first configuration (providing dense bristle spacing for product deposition) to a second configuration (providing sparse bristle spacing for lash separation). This dynamic reconfiguration allows the entire brush surface to be utilized for different functions at different times, improving ease of operation and versatility compared to fixed zoned brushes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If comb-shaped applicator is used for lash separation, then lash separation is provided, but product transfer and application to eyelashes is inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelash separation efficiencyVSAvoidproduct transfer efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The same applicator head provides multiple functions: dense bristle spacing for efficient product transfer and application, and sparse bristle spacing for effective lash separation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need to switch between different applicator types, improving overall productivity by combining both functions in a single device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8087415B2Adjustable applicator assembly
Publication Date: 2012.01.03 ZEN DESIGN SOLUTIONS
  • US8087415B2 patent drawing
  • US8087415B2 patent drawing
  • US8087415B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An applicator assembly and in particular, relates to an adjustable applicator capable of being adjusted to retain variable quantities of a product is provided. Also disclosed is a container comprising an applicator assembly for storing and application of consumer products such as cosmetic, hair care or dental products. The applicator assembly is configured to comprise at least two applicator heads, wherein the applicator heads are arranged to be movable relative to each other thereby resulting in change in density of the bristles of the applicator assembly.