Elastically Deformable Cosmetic Applicator with Wiper
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging and applicator devices for cosmetic products are either complex and costly or lack precision and comfort in application, with narrow application surfaces and insufficient substance capacity.
Innovation Solution
A packaging and applicator device featuring an elastically deformable applicator element with a large outside cross-section, allowing deformation during insertion and removal, and a receptacle with a wiper member that can be made of inexpensive materials, enabling comfortable and precise application with increased substance capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the stem diameter is made small to avoid deforming the wiper member, then the wiper member can be used, but the stem becomes relatively flexible which reduces precision in applying makeup
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator element is divided into multiple segments or layers that can independently deform and recover. This segmentation allows the applicator to pass through the wiper member opening while maintaining sufficient rigidity in the stem portion for precise application, as each segment can accommodate the deformation without compromising overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator element is designed with dynamic deformation capabilities, allowing it to change shape temporarily during insertion through the wiper member and then return to its original shape. This dynamic behavior enables the use of a larger stem diameter for precision while still accommodating the wiper member constraint through controlled elastic deformation.
2Quantity of substance
If the applicator element cross-section is made large to provide sufficient substance capacity, then substance holding capacity increases, but the applicator cannot pass through the wiper member opening without deforming
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator element's geometric parameters (cross-sectional area, shape, and dimensions) are specifically designed to change during insertion. The applicator can be manufactured with a larger cross-section for substance capacity, but its shape is configured to deform elastically when passing through the wiper member opening, allowing it to accommodate both large substance capacity and successful insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator element utilizes elastic deformation dynamics to temporarily reduce its cross-sectional area during insertion through the wiper member opening, then returns to its original larger cross-section once past the opening. This dynamic shape change enables the applicator to maintain large substance capacity while still being insertable through the constrained opening.
3Ease of operation
If the applicator element is made elastically deformable to pass through the wiper member opening, then insertion is possible, but the applicator element may deform during use affecting application quality
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the applicator element are designed with different mechanical properties. The portion that needs to deform for insertion is made more flexible, while the portion used for application maintains higher rigidity. This local differentiation of material properties or structural characteristics allows the applicator to deform during insertion while maintaining application quality during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator element is segmented into functional zones with different mechanical characteristics. The insertion portion is designed for elastic deformation to pass through the wiper member, while the application portion maintains structural integrity for precise application. This segmentation allows each portion to optimize its properties for its specific function without compromising the other.
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 device provides a comfortable and precise application experience with enhanced substance delivery, allowing for longer use and improved makeup effects, such as glossiness, while maintaining ease of manufacturing and installation.
Implementation Method 1
an applicator element that is elastically deformable at least in part... the applicator element may comprise at least one inner cavity and may include an outside cross-section that is large enough for the applicator element to deform while passing through the opening
Data Source
AI summary
A device may include an applicator including an applicator element that is at least partially elastically deformable and a receptacle configured to contain a substance to be applied and configured to house the applicator element when not in use. The receptacle may include an opening through which the applicator element passes while the applicator element is being removed from the receptacle. The applicator element may include at least one inner cavity that is defined, at least in part, between at least two branches that are at least partially flocked. An outside cross-section of the applicator element may be large enough for the applicator element to deform while passing through the opening of the receptacle, the deformation resulting in a shape of the cavity being modified.