Angled Interlinked Cosmetic Applicator for Lash Separation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional mascara applicators fail to efficiently apply mascara without clumping and evenly separate lashes, requiring users to twist and turn their wrists, which not all users can do effectively, and often necessitate the use of separate applicators for different functions.

Innovation Solution

A cosmetic applicator with interlinked parts forming a non-zero angle, featuring a combination of hard and soft materials, such as a hard comb part and a soft bristle part, that mimic the twirling action of the wrist, allowing for simultaneous application and separation of lashes in a single stroke.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If a single mascara brush is used, then the applicator structure is simple, but it cannot achieve both even distribution and separation of lashes without clumping

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveeven mascara distribution and lash separationVSAvoidapplicator structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The applicator is divided into two distinct parts: a first applicator part with bristles for applying mascara, and a second applicator part with comb teeth for separating lashes. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally, achieving even distribution and separation without clumping.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines two different applicator types (brush and comb) into a single integrated applicator assembly. The first applicator part with bristles and the second applicator part with comb teeth are positioned adjacent to each other, allowing simultaneous application and separation in one stroke.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Manufacturing precision

If users twist and turn their wrists to achieve desired effect, then application effectiveness can be improved, but not all users can do this effectively and it increases operation difficulty

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplication effectivenessVSAvoiduser operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The applicator is designed with two parts positioned at an angle to each other, creating a dynamic configuration that automatically mimics the twisting motion of the wrist during application. This angular arrangement allows the applicator to adapt to the natural movement of the brush during use, achieving expert-like application without requiring complex wrist maneuvers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Manufacturing precision

If separate applicators are used for different functions, then each applicator can be optimized for its specific function, but it increases the number of parts and device complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunction-specific optimizationVSAvoidnumber of parts
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple functions into a single applicator by positioning a first applicator part (for application) and a second applicator part (for separation) adjacent to each other. This merging eliminates the need for separate applicators while maintaining function-specific optimization through the distinct design of each part.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single applicator assembly serves multiple functions: the first applicator part applies mascara evenly, while the second applicator part separates and combs the lashes. This multi-functional design allows one applicator to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate tools.

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

Data Source

PatentUS9066573B2Cosmetic applicator
Publication Date: 2015.06.30 ZEN DESIGN SOLUTIONS
  • US9066573B2 patent drawing
  • US9066573B2 patent drawing
  • US9066573B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention generally relates to a cosmetic applicator and in particular, relate to a cosmetic applicator comprising of at least two molded applicator parts that are interlinked such that a non-zero angle is formed at an interface of the at least two molded applicator parts with respect to a centerline of the applicator. The cosmetic applicator of present invention imitates the twirl of the wrist during application and thereby provides a better application. The cosmetic applicator of the present invention may be used for cosmetic and care applications such as mascara application, hair coloring, lip application, etc.