Cosmetic Wiper with Openwork Elastic Portion for Variable Neck Heights
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wipers for packaging and application assemblies, particularly in cosmetics, face challenges with precise dimensioning and limited adaptability to varying container neck heights due to their design, which affects mounting reliability and leaktightness.
Innovation Solution
A wiper with a cylindrical body featuring an openwork portion that is elastically deformable along the longitudinal axis, allowing for greater axial stretching and adaptability to different container neck heights, and coupling means that bend differently based on the direction of axial load to facilitate easy mounting and secure retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the wiper is made of elastically deformable material with a tubular body and flexible lips to simplify mounting, then the mounting operation is easier, but the wiper requires precise dimensioning and has limited adaptability to varying container neck heights
Solution Approach 1:
The wiper body is segmented into distinct functional zones: a rigid cylindrical body for structural stability, an intermediate elastically deformable portion for adaptation, and flexible coupling lips for mounting. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function optimally while working together as a unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The wiper incorporates dynamic elements including the elastically deformable intermediate portion that can stretch axially to adapt to different neck heights, and flexible lips that bend during mounting operations. These dynamic characteristics enable the wiper to adjust to varying container dimensions while maintaining secure attachment.
2Ease of operation
If the wiper uses a stretchable tubular portion to allow elastic axial stretching during mounting, then the mounting process is simplified, but the wiper has restricted adaptability path and limited range of container neck heights
Solution Approach 1:
The wiper employs composite construction combining rigid and elastic materials in specific proportions and configurations. The rigid cylindrical body provides structural integrity while the elastically deformable intermediate portion contributes flexibility and adaptability. This composite approach optimizes the balance between mounting ease and adaptability range.
Solution Approach 2:
The wiper design utilizes parameter changes in the elastic portion, specifically controlling its length, cross-sectional area, and elastic modulus to achieve optimal stretching characteristics. By adjusting these parameters, the wiper can adapt to a broader range of container neck heights while maintaining reliable mounting.
3Ease of operation
If the wiper coupling means are designed to offer resistance to introduction but facilitate withdrawal, then mounting is simplified, but the mounting reliability and leaktightness are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible lips are pre-formed with a specific geometry that anticipates the mounting process. During introduction, they naturally bend to accommodate the applicator member, and upon engagement with the container rim, they automatically assume a position that provides both secure retention and leaktight sealing.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling lips feature curved surfaces and rounded edges that facilitate smooth engagement with the container opening. The curved geometry allows the lips to flex and conform to the container rim during mounting, ensuring reliable attachment and effective sealing without creating stress concentration points.
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 openwork design enhances the wiper's ability to adapt to a wider range of container dimensions, improves mounting reliability, and ensures effective leaktightness without compromising ease of installation or removal.
Implementation Method 1
a portion that is elastically deformable along the longitudinal axis and is provided between said rim and said coupling means
Implementation Method 2
the openwork design enhances the wiper's ability to adapt to a wider range of container dimensions
Implementation Method 3
coupling means that bend differently based on the direction of axial load
Data Source
AI summary
A wiper configured to be fitted on a container containing a product, to be applied by an applicator, the wiper including a cylindrical body extending along a longitudinal axis, a part of which forms the actual wiping member, the body having, along the longitudinal axis, a rim configured to rest on an edge of the container delimiting an opening therein, a coupler configured to couple the wiper to the container, and a portion that is elastically deformable along the longitudinal axis and is provided between the rim and the coupler, the elastically deformable portion is in the form of an openwork portion of the body.