Cosmetic Application Head with Segmented Nozzles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cosmetic application devices are limited in versatility and precision, particularly unsuitable for short hair and do not effectively facilitate the application of various cosmetic preparations, including hair treatments and colorants.

Innovation Solution

A cap-like application device with an active surface featuring evenly distributed nozzles of varying diameters and materials, including soft elastic nozzles, which form conical application channels to ensure precise and controlled application, along with projections for enhanced distribution and combing effects.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If a single outlet opening is used for applying cosmetic preparation, then the device structure is simple, but the application area is limited and cannot cover large areas evenly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplication areaVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The application head is segmented into multiple nozzles (2-100 nozzles, preferably 15-25 nozzles) distributed across the active surface. Each nozzle has a diameter of maximum 1mm and forms a conical application channel. This segmentation allows the preparation to be applied evenly over a large area while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If hard nozzles are used, then the device structure is simple and durable, but the preparation cannot be massaged into the application zone effectively

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemassaging capabilityVSAvoidmaterial selection
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The nozzles are made of soft or elastic material with Shore hardness of 20-100 Sh (preferably approximately 60 Sh), while the rest of the application head can be made of more resistant plastic (e.g., polypropylene PP or polyethylene PE). This local quality differentiation allows the nozzles to provide a pleasant feeling and facilitate massaging movements, while the application head maintains structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The application device uses composite materials: nozzles made of thermoplastic elastomer TPE (soft material) combined with application head made of polypropylene PP or polyethylene PE (resistant plastic). This combination allows each component to have optimal material properties for its specific function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Manufacturing precision

If large diameter outlet openings are used, then the preparation flows easily, but overdosing occurs and precision is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedosage precisionVSAvoidapplication efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The single outlet is segmented into multiple nozzles with small diameters (maximum 1mm each). Each nozzle forms a conical application channel that tapers towards the outlet opening. This segmentation provides precise metering and prevents overdosing, while the multiple nozzles collectively maintain efficient coverage of the application area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Adaptability or versatility

If the application device is designed for long hair (combining application), then it works well for long hair, but it is unsuitable for short hair and lacks versatility

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehair type adaptabilityVSAvoidoperation method
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The application head with multiple nozzles arranged on an active surface provides a universal design that works for both long and short hair. The nozzles can be used for direct application without combing, and the soft nozzle material enables massaging movements that are particularly effective for short hair. This multi-functional design replaces the need for comb-specific applications.

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

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

Enables even and precise application of cosmetic preparations over large areas, prevents overdosing, and improves the action of hair treatments by allowing for adaptable nozzle dimensions and materials, enhancing user experience and application efficacy.

Implementation Method 1

each nozzle (7) forms an application channel (9) that tapers conically towards the application opening (8)... the conical shape of the application channel (9)... allows the hair dye to be precisely metered during use

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure gradient: Pressure Gradient

Implementation Method 2

the nozzles (7) are made of a soft or elastic material that has a Shore hardness of 20-100 Sh... the soft nozzles (7) also improve the action of the hair dye on the hair, since the action process of the hair dye can advantageously be supported by massaging movements of the application head (5)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP1978839B1Application device for using a cosmetic preparation
Publication Date: 2011.09.14 HENKEL KGAA
  • EP1978839B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP1978839B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to an application device (1) for using a cosmetic preparation, for example, a hair treatment preparation or another body care preparation. Application devices of this type are suited for being placed on an associated container (3) containing the cosmetic preparation. In order to improve the action of the preparation and to achieve a uniform dosing of the preparation, the application device (1) has a cap-like application head (5) and an number of discharge openings (8), the discharge openings (8) being made on nozzles (7) that are uniformly distributed over an effective surface (6) of the application head (5).