Dynamic Cosmetic Applicator With Spring-Loaded Expansion Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cosmetic applicators are limited by the size of the wiper orifice, restricting the size and shape of applicators that can be used, and often require a wiping stage to prepare the applicator, which can limit the profile and effectiveness of the applicator surface area.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic cosmetic applicator with a moving mechanism that compresses to pass through small orifices and expands for application, featuring a spring mechanism and contoured surfaces to increase the surface area and accommodate asymmetrical forms, allowing effective wiping and self-wiping capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If the applicator surface area is increased to provide larger application surface, then the applicator cannot pass through conventional wiper orifices
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator incorporates a dynamic mechanism that allows it to change its physical state between expanded (for application) and compressed (for passage through orifice). The spring mechanism enables the applicator to automatically transition between these states, providing a large surface area when needed while facilitating easy passage through conventional wiper orifices when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator design allows the working surfaces to be folded or nested together in the compressed state, enabling the large surface area to be contained within a compact form factor that can pass through small orifices. When expanded, the nested surfaces unfold to provide the full application surface area.
2Productivity
If the applicator requires a wiping stage to prepare the applicator, then the applicator profile and effectiveness are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator is designed to be self-wiping through the interaction of its contoured surfaces. As the applicator passes through the wiper orifice in its compressed state, the contoured surfaces automatically wipe against each other or against the orifice edges, eliminating the need for a separate wiping stage and reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The contoured surfaces are designed to perform the wiping action during the passage through the orifice, which is a preliminary action that prepares the applicator surfaces before the actual cosmetic application. This preliminary wiping ensures the applicator is ready for use without requiring an additional dedicated wiping step.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the applicator uses conventional symmetrical forms, then asymmetrical application needs cannot be met
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator incorporates asymmetrical contoured surfaces that are designed to match specific application needs. These asymmetrical features allow the applicator to effectively apply cosmetics to various facial contours and asymmetrical areas, enhancing versatility while still maintaining a compact form for manufacturing and passage through orifices.
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 larger and asymmetrical applicator shapes to pass through conventional wiper orifices, providing double the surface area for application and eliminating the need for a separate wiping stage, enhancing the efficiency and versatility of cosmetic application.
Implementation Method 1
the cosmetic applicator has an integrated spring that allows the applicator to consistently pass through the wiping orifice and spring back to its static state for application after withdrawal of the application from the cosmetic package
Data Source
AI summary
An applicator includes a first applicator tool and a second applicator tool, wherein the first and second applicator tools are positioned diagonally apart from each other; and the applicator has an overall width that decreases with the flexing of a spring holding the first and second applicator tools as the first and second tools overlap with each other.