Eyelash Applicator with Alternating Curved and Straight Spikes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing eyelash and eyebrow applicators face challenges in achieving optimal product loading and distribution, leading to either insufficient application or clumping, due to inadequate wiping mechanisms and spike configurations.
Innovation Solution
An applicator with a core having alternating curved and straight spikes, along with a guard element at the proximal end, which reduces wiping and enhances product retention, allowing for better eyelash loading and separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If excessive wiping of the applicator member is performed, then the applicator is sufficiently cleaned, but the applicator becomes insufficiently loaded with product requiring frequent reloading
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator member features zones with different spike configurations: curved spikes in certain longitudinal rows create product reservoirs that are wiped less, while straight spikes in other rows are wiped more. This local differentiation allows simultaneous product retention in reservoirs and adequate cleaning in other areas, resolving the contradiction between cleaning effectiveness and product loading.
2Quantity of substance
If insufficient wiping of the applicator member is performed, then product loading is maintained, but excess product remains that is difficult to manage causing clumps on poorly separated eyelashes
Solution Approach 1:
Different spike types create localized product distribution: curved spikes form reservoirs with controlled product release, while straight spikes allow excess product to be wiped away. This prevents clumping by ensuring product is distributed evenly across the applicator surface, with reservoirs providing controlled surplus and straight spike areas providing drainage.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator member is segmented into multiple longitudinal rows with alternating spike configurations. This segmentation creates distinct functional zones: some rows serve as product reservoirs while others serve as product drainage areas, preventing overall clumping while maintaining adequate product loading.
3Productivity
If a large number of spikes per row are used, then product distribution capacity is increased, but spacing between spike free ends becomes too small impairing eyelash introduction
Solution Approach 1:
Curved spikes are used in alternating rows instead of straight spikes. The curvature allows the spike tips to follow a longer path around the core, effectively increasing the spacing between adjacent spike free ends while maintaining a high number of spikes per row. This preserves eyelash introduction capability while maximizing product distribution capacity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an applicator for applying a cosmetic, makeup or care, product to the eyelashes and/or eyebrows, having a moulded applicator member (8) having:—a core (10) that extends along a longitudinal axis (X),—spikes (15, 16) that are carried by the core (10) and are disposed all around the core (10) in a plurality of longitudinal rows (17, 19), wherein, in said applicator, at least one longitudinal row (17) has an alternation of curved spikes (16) that each extend along a curvilinear elongation axis (Ec) and straight spikes (15) that each extend along a rectilinear elongation axis (Er).