Applicator Device Axial Stick Extension Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing applicator devices for stick products, such as lipstick, require significant angular rotation to open the end cover, making them cumbersome to use and requiring a larger path of actuation, which can be inconvenient for one-handed operation.
Innovation Solution
The maneuvering mechanism is designed to slide axially within the tubular casing, allowing the stick to extend only when the end cover is sufficiently open, reducing the angular actuation required to reach the usage position, by using a guide device that moves the mechanism toward the end of the casing as the sleeve rotates, thus delaying and then accelerating the stick's protrusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the end cover means is opened by rotating the sleeve relative to the tubular base, then the stick of product can protrude from the casing, but a significant angular rotation is required which makes the device cumbersome to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism transitions from a static rotational opening to a dynamic sequence where rotation triggers automated axial movement. The guide device converts the initial rotational input into automated axial translation of the maneuvering mechanism, reducing the angular rotation needed from a large continuous motion to a small trigger rotation followed by automated linear progression.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds an axial dimension to the traditionally rotational opening mechanism. Instead of purely rotational movement to expose the stick, the system now uses rotation to trigger axial translation of the maneuvering mechanism along the longitudinal axis, creating a two-dimensional motion sequence (rotation + axial translation) that reduces the angular rotation requirement.
2Ease of operation
If the stick of product protrudes early during rotation, then the end cover can be opened, but the stick must travel over a longer path to reach the usage position
Solution Approach 1:
The guide device performs preliminary action by pre-positioning the maneuvering mechanism axially during the rotation sequence. As the sleeve rotates and the end cover opens, the guide device automatically translates the maneuvering mechanism toward the second end, so that when the stick begins to protrude, it is already closer to the final usage position, shortening the remaining protrusion path.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide device acts as an intermediary between the rotational input and the axial protrusion of the stick. It mediates the motion sequence by converting rotational movement into controlled axial translation of the maneuvering mechanism, coordinating the timing and position of stick protrusion to optimize the actuation path.
3Loss of time
If the maneuvering mechanism slides axially during rotation, then the angular actuation path is reduced, but the mechanism requires a guide device to coordinate the sliding motion
Solution Approach 1:
The guide device merges the rotational and axial motions into a coordinated sequence. By integrating the guide device with the existing sleeve and maneuvering mechanism components, the system combines rotation-triggered axial translation with the stick protrusion sequence, achieving faster actuation without requiring entirely separate mechanisms for each motion type.
Data Source
AI summary
An applicator device comprising a tubular base, a sleeve mounted rotating on the tubular base between a storage position and a use position, an end cover designed to close the sleeve, a maneuvering mechanism comprising first and second parts rotatably mounted relative to each other, and a cup carrying a stick of product, the first and second parts being driven in rotation respectively with the tubular base and the sleeve and being designed to move the cup axially when the sleeve rotates on the tubular base. The first and second parts of the maneuvering mechanism are mounted axially sliding respectively relative to the tubular base and to the sleeve, and are moved axially in the outlet direction of the stick of product when the sleeve is rotated towards the storage position from an intermediate angular position.