Reusable Cosmetic Applicator with Rotational Axial Ejection Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cosmetic products and applicators are not sustainable as they are completely discarded after the applicator mass is largely used, leading to wastage of reusable parts.
Innovation Solution
A reusable application unit with a replaceable cartridge and closure that integrates a mass-carrying cartridge and a closure, featuring locking clutches that allow axial fixation and rotation, ensuring the cosmetic mass remains sealed and can be easily replaced without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If cosmetic products and applicators are completely discarded after use, then manufacturing and assembly are simplified, but sustainability deteriorates and reusable parts are wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator is divided into two segments: a reusable applicator unit (handle, cartridge sleeve, closure sleeve, locking couplings) and a disposable cartridge (containing cosmetic mass and closure). This segmentation allows the durable components to be reused while only the consumable cartridge is discarded, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and sustainability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements a system where the cartridge is discarded after use but the applicator unit components are recovered and reused. The cartridge is designed as a separate, replaceable element that can be easily disposed of while the main applicator structure remains intact for continued use, addressing both manufacturing ease and environmental sustainability.
2Loss of substance
If the cartridge and closure are made as separate replaceable parts, then sustainability improves through reusability, but device complexity increases due to locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator is divided into two segments: a reusable applicator unit (handle, cartridge sleeve, closure sleeve, locking couplings) and a disposable cartridge (containing cosmetic mass and closure). This segmentation allows the durable components to be reused while only the consumable cartridge is discarded, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and sustainability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking couplings are designed to automatically engage and secure the cartridge within the applicator unit without requiring additional fastening steps or complex mechanisms. The cartridge insertion process itself activates the locking function, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining secure attachment for sustainable reuse.
3Reliability
If locking couplings secure the cartridge axially, then reliability improves through secure attachment, but ease of operation deteriorates due to tool requirements for release
Solution Approach 1:
The locking couplings are designed to automatically engage and secure the cartridge within the applicator unit without requiring additional fastening steps or complex mechanisms. The cartridge insertion process itself activates the locking function, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining secure attachment for sustainable reuse.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge is designed as a disposable component that is easily replaceable. The locking coupling mechanism is simplified because it only needs to secure the cartridge during use, not provide permanent or reversible attachment. This allows for reliable secure attachment during the product lifecycle while enabling easy cartridge replacement when needed.
4Shape
If the closure sleeve and cartridge sleeve are designed with decorative elements, then appearance quality improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator is divided into two segments: a reusable applicator unit (handle, cartridge sleeve, closure sleeve, locking couplings) and a disposable cartridge (containing cosmetic mass and closure). This segmentation allows the durable components to be reused while only the consumable cartridge is discarded, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and sustainability.
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 solution provides a sustainable, visually appealing, and convenient application unit that maintains product hygiene and prevents leakage, allowing for easy replacement of cartridges, thus balancing sustainability and user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
the cartridge sleeve and the closure sleeve form - in pairs - a first and a second locking coupling for axially securing one part to the other part. At least one of the two locking couplings is designed in such a way that the cartridge sleeve and the closure sleeve can in turn be secured to one another and at the same time have a force converter which converts a rotation of the cartridge sleeve relative to the closure sleeve into an axial force
Data Source
Figure 1~5
Figure 6~8
Figure 9~11
AI summary
Application unit (1) comprising a cartridge (6) consisting of a mass-carrying cartridge (7) and a sealing closure (8) which is integrally attached to the cartridge (7) until it is opened, as well as a cartridge sleeve (2) for receiving the cartridge (7) and a closure sleeve (3) for receiving the closure (8), wherein the cartridge sleeve (2) and the cartridge (7) as well as the closure sleeve (3) and the closure (8) – each in pairs – form a first ora second locking coupling (10, 11) for axially fixing one part to the other part, characterized in that at least one of the two locking couplings (10, 11) is designed in such a way that it allows, in particular, free movement in the circumferential direction, so that the components fixed axially to one another by it can rotate relative to each other, in particular in the circumferential direction, and that the cartridge sleeve (2) and the closure sleeve (3) can themselves be fixed to one another and at the same time have a force converter which converts a rotation of the cartridge sleeve (2) relative to the closure sleeve (3) into an axial force or an axial force component which pushes the closure sleeve (3) away from the cartridge sleeve (2).