Break-open Single-dose Package with Separable Applicator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing single-dose packages for dispensable substances do not provide a convenient method for users to apply spreadable consumables without direct hand contact, which can be undesirable or harmful.
Innovation Solution
A break-open single-dose package design featuring a panel with a frangible region, a coupled sheet defining a pocket for the consumable, and an applicator with a backing and vessel that separates from the panel upon folding, allowing the user to apply the consumable using the applicator without hand contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the panel is folded to break the frangible region and dispense the consumable, then the applicator can receive and transfer the consumable, but the user's hand must contact the spreadable consumable which is undesirable or harmful
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator acts as an intermediary device between the consumable and the user's hand. The vessel of the applicator receives the spreadable consumable from the pocket, and the user manipulates the applicator (which does not contact the consumable) to apply the substance to the skin. This eliminates direct hand-contact with the consumable while maintaining ease of application.
Solution Approach 2:
The package is segmented into distinct functional components: the pocket for storing the consumable, the frangible region for controlled dispensing, and the applicator for application. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, with the applicator serving as a separate tool that the user controls without exposing their hand to the consumable.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the backing separates from the vessel in response to folding, then the applicator structure can accommodate panel movement, but the complexity of the applicator assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The backing is designed to dynamically separate from the vessel in response to the folding motion of the panel. This dynamic separation allows the applicator structure to accommodate the movement and breaking of the panel without requiring complex rigid connections, thereby providing structural adaptability while maintaining relatively simple construction.
Data Source
AI summary
A break-open single-dose package includes a panel defining a frangible region, one or more sheets coupled to the panel and defining a pocket therebetween for storing a spreadable consumable, and an applicator. The frangible region is adapted to form an opening through which the spreadable consumable can exit in response to folding of the panel. The applicator includes a backing and a vessel extending from the backing. The vessel defines a channel for receiving any spreadable consumable that exits the pocket. The applicator is positioned adjacent to the frangible region for permitting a user to spread on a surface any spreadable consumable that exits the pocket using the applicator without requiring the user's hand(s) to contact the spreadable consumable. The backing is configured to move with the panel and separate from the vessel in response to folding of the panel. Other example packages and/or applicators are also disclosed.