Anchor-Free Bristle Applicator Assembly With Flush Shaft End
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing applicator devices are costly to manufacture and may have protruding parts that cause injuries or retain applicator medium, lacking efficient and cost-effective assembly methods.
Innovation Solution
An applicator device with a carrier element that is flush with the shaft end, featuring recesses for holding protrusions and a snap connection, using positive, force, or material fit, and anchor-free bristle elements connected via welding or over-molding, allowing for efficient assembly and secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional syringe or dropper is used to apply lubricant, then the device is simple and inexpensive, but it cannot provide controlled distribution across different zone lengths and requires manual manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator device divides the lubricant application process into distinct functional zones along the shaft length. Different segments of the shaft correspond to different zone lengths (e.g., 10mm, 20mm, 30mm zones), each with optimized lubricant distribution characteristics. This segmentation allows controlled distribution across different areas without requiring complex manual manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device introduces an intermediary mechanism - a rotating shaft with lubricant reservoirs and distribution channels - that mediates between the lubricant source and the application site. This intermediary system automatically distributes lubricant across different zones based on shaft rotation, eliminating the need for direct manual manipulation while providing controlled distribution.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual manipulation is used to apply lubricant to different zone lengths, then device complexity is low, but application precision and consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator device performs self-service by automatically distributing lubricant based on shaft rotation. The rotating shaft actively engages with the lubricant reservoirs and distribution channels to deliver precise lubricant amounts to different zones without requiring external manual manipulation. This self-service mechanism ensures consistent application precision across different zone lengths.
Solution Approach 2:
The device replaces manual mechanical manipulation with an automated rotating shaft mechanism. The rotation of the shaft drives the lubricant distribution process through integrated channels and reservoirs, substituting human hand manipulation with a controlled mechanical rotation system that provides precise and consistent lubricant delivery.
3Reliability
If lubricant is applied manually, then the process is flexible, but it increases the risk of contamination and improper application
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses an intermediary closed-system architecture where the lubricant is contained within sealed reservoirs and delivered through controlled channels. This intermediary system prevents direct exposure of the lubricant to the external environment, thereby reducing contamination risk while maintaining ease of operation through automated shaft rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates pneumatic or hydraulic principles through pressurized lubricant delivery mechanisms. The lubricant is delivered under controlled pressure through the rotating shaft, ensuring reliable application while maintaining a closed system that prevents contamination. The pressure-controlled delivery mechanism ensures consistent lubricant flow without exposing the lubricant to external contaminants.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an applicator device, in particular for cosmetic and/or hygiene applications, which comprises a shaft (2) with a longitudinal axis (X), a proximal and a distal end (3, 4) as well as a carrier element (5), wherein at the carrier element (5) there are arranged bristle elements (6) in an anchor-free manner, wherein the carrier element (5) is introduced in a receiving opening (7) or put onto a receiving section at the distal end (4) of the shaft (2) and wherein the carrier element (5) is connected to the shaft (2); and to a respective method.