Automated Cosmetic Sample Dispensing With Hygienic Robotic Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Consumers face challenges in sampling cosmetics hygienically and customizing their choices due to prepackaged products lacking sample sizes and the health risks associated with open samples handled by multiple individuals, which also suffer from limitations in dispensing multiple types of cosmetics and requiring mixing apparatuses.
Innovation Solution
An automated delivery system utilizing a robotic arm assembly with vertical and horizontal translational components, allowing for the dispensing of hygienic, customizable, and sample-sized cosmetic products based on user input, using a carrier with removably attached containers and caps with attached cosmetic applicators, and controlled by a user interface and computer components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If prepackaged cosmetics are used, then product availability and packaging integrity are maintained, but consumers cannot sample the product before purchase
Solution Approach 1:
The cosmetic product is divided into two separate components: a sealed container holding the cosmetic substance and a separate applicator mechanism. This segmentation allows the cosmetic to remain prepackaged and intact while enabling controlled dispensing of samples through the applicator, thus providing sampling capability without compromising packaging integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
An automated dispensing machine acts as an intermediary between the prepackaged cosmetic product and the consumer. The machine contains the sealed cosmetic container and uses an automated applicator to dispense samples, eliminating the need for consumers to directly handle or open the cosmetic packaging, thereby maintaining both packaging integrity and sampling capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If open cosmetic samples are provided, then consumers can sample before purchase, but health risks arise from multiple individuals handling and applying the samples
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator is designed as a disposable single-use component. Each consumer receives a fresh applicator that is discarded after one use, eliminating the risk of cross-contamination between users. The applicator can be made from inexpensive materials such as a disposable brush, sponge, or swab, making this approach economically viable.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated dispensing machine serves as an intermediary that controls the entire sampling process. It dispenses the cosmetic sample directly onto the disposable applicator and hands it to the consumer, ensuring that the consumer never contacts the main cosmetic container or previously used samples, thus preventing infection transmission.
3Adaptability or versatility
If customizable cosmetic formulations are dispensed, then consumer preferences are accommodated, but mixing apparatuses are required
Solution Approach 1:
The cosmetic product line is segmented into multiple pre-formulated variants (e.g., different shades, formulas, or concentrations) that are stored in separate containers. The consumer selects their preferred variant, and the dispensing system provides that specific formulation without requiring mixing, thus achieving customization while avoiding complex mixing mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Different cosmetic formulations are prepared in advance and stored separately in the dispensing system. When a consumer makes a selection, the pre-prepared formulation is immediately dispensed without requiring on-the-spot mixing or formulation, thereby providing customization capability while eliminating the need for complex mixing apparatuses.
4Quantity of substance
If sample size cosmetics are dispensed, then appropriate sampling portions are provided, but precise dosage control is required
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator is designed to automatically pick up a consistent, appropriate amount of cosmetic from the container through capillary action, gravity, or controlled dispensing mechanisms built into the applicator itself. This self-regulating design provides precise sample size control without requiring complex external dosing equipment or manual measurement by the consumer.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispensing machine acts as an intermediary that controls the transfer of cosmetic from the container to the applicator. It uses automated mechanisms such as controlled piston movement, valve regulation, or weight-based dispensing to ensure that each applicator receives the correct sample size, providing precise dosage control while keeping the overall system relatively simple.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The present teachings contemplate a dispensing apparatus for cosmetic samples, the apparatus comprising a retail point of sale dispenser; a carrier including a plurality of mounts and a plurality of containers removably attached to the carrier via the plurality of mounts; with vertical and horizontal translational components; one or more information retrieval devices; a user interface including a data interface adapted to store information on the one or more information retrieval devices; a transparent panel covering at least a portion of the dispensing apparatus and wherein the one or more information retrieval device are adapted to be maintained in the possession of a user; and wherein the apparatus dispenses cosmetic samples based on user input.