Compact Applicator Package With Hinged Dome And Venting Channels
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional applicators for substances like antiperspirant and shoe polish face issues such as bulkiness, awkward shape, contamination, leakage, messiness, and difficulty in application, leading to inefficiencies and user discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A compact applicator package design featuring a platform with a fill passage and channels, a removable dome for filling, and a hinged lid for easy access, which minimizes contamination and facilitates uniform application while being ergonomic and aesthetically pleasing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional applicator designs are used, then the applicator can hold and apply substance, but the applicator becomes bulky and awkward to hold
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator is divided into separate functional components: a compact container housing the substance, a removable applicator head with sponge or brush elements, and a hinge mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing overall bulk while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator head and sponge elements are nested within the container when not in use. The hinge mechanism allows the applicator head to fold into the container body, creating a compact form factor that eliminates bulkiness while preserving all functional elements.
2Quantity of substance
If conventional applicator designs are used, then the applicator can contain substance, but the applicator is susceptible to contamination from exterior environment
Solution Approach 1:
A hinge-connected lid acts as an intermediary element that seals the container opening while maintaining a controlled access path. The lid creates a barrier between the substance and exterior environment, allowing opening/closing motion without direct exposure to contaminants.
Solution Approach 2:
The container opening is sealed with a flexible membrane or thin film that can deform during hinge motion but maintains its barrier function. This flexible sealing mechanism prevents contamination while accommodating the dynamic opening/closing operation.
3Ease of operation
If conventional applicator designs are used, then the applicator can apply substance, but the application process is messy and difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator head incorporates localized application zones with controlled porosity or bristle density. Different regions of the sponge or brush are engineered with specific properties to control substance release at precise locations, enabling uniform and clean application without mess.
4Ease of operation
If conventional applicator designs are used, then the applicator can be opened and closed, but inadvertent opening occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism incorporates dynamic locking features that engage automatically when the lid is closed and require deliberate user action to open. The mechanism transitions between locked and unlocked states, providing stable closure during normal handling while allowing intentional opening when needed.
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
The design enhances user convenience by providing a compact, mess-free, and efficient application process, ensuring uniform product distribution and easy handling, even for sensitive areas like underarms.
Implementation Method 1
filling the cavity with the substance flowing through the at least one fill passage
Implementation Method 2
permitting the venting of gas from the cavity through the at least one channel to the platform outer side
Data Source
AI summary
An applicator package (40), consisting of an applicator and a substance (48) in the applicator, is provided so a user can apply the substance (48) to a target region. A set of components is provided for being assembled as the applicator, and a method is provided for making the applicator package (40). The applicator package (40) includes a platform (42) having an outer side (56) and having an inner side (54) defining a substance support surface (55). The substance (48) is supported on the platform support surface (55). The platform (42) defines (1) at least one fill passage (58) that extends from the platform outer side (56) to the platform inner side (54), and (2) at least one channel (60) that is located between portions of the substance support surface (55) and that communicates between the platform inner side (54) and the platform outer side (56). A dome (46 or 44) is initially, releasably mounted on the platform (42) over the substance (48) at the platform inner side (54).