Applicator Lid Handle Integration for Compact Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional applicator packages are often bulky, awkward to hold, prone to contamination, leaky, and difficult to use efficiently, with issues including inadvertent opening, uneven product application, and lack of ergonomic design, making them inconvenient for applying substances to target regions.
Innovation Solution
A package design where the lid functions as a handle, allowing for a snap-fit engagement with a platform, providing a secure closure, easy opening to 150-250 degrees, and a compact size for comfortable handling and application, minimizing mess and contamination, while allowing precise control over product application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the applicator includes a separate lid and body structure, then the closure function is achieved, but the applicator becomes bulky and awkward to hold
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the lid and handle into a single integrated component. The lid is formed as an extension of the handle body, eliminating the need for a separate lid structure. This integration maintains the closure function while significantly reducing the overall bulk and improving ergonomics of the applicator.
Solution Approach 2:
The lid structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the closure element that seals the applicator opening, provides the gripping surface for the handle, and forms part of the structural body. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby reducing overall size while maintaining reliability.
2Ease of operation
If the lid is designed to be easily removable, then ease of operation is improved, but inadvertent opening and loss of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the lid and handle into a single integral component, the patent eliminates the risk of the lid becoming separated or lost. The unified structure ensures that the closure element cannot be inadvertently detached from the handle, while still allowing easy opening through simple rotational motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated lid-handle design is self-retaining by its very structure. The continuous material formation provides inherent retention without requiring additional retention mechanisms, while still allowing user-initiated opening when needed.
3Ease of manufacture
If the applicator structure is simplified, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but robustness and rigidity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of lid and handle into a single component simplifies manufacturing by reducing the number of parts that need to be produced and assembled. The unified structure can be formed in a single molding or fabrication process, reducing manufacturing complexity while the optimized geometry maintains structural robustness and rigidity.
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 and precision in applying substances, reduces waste, and maintains product integrity by allowing easy handling and uniform application, even under clothing, with a sleek and robust construction suitable for carrying in pockets or purses.
Implementation Method 1
the lid and the platform are configured to permit the lid to be releasably latched to the platform
Data Source
Figure 1~6
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Figure 3
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).