Eyelash Applicator Stem Flexibility for Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mascara applicators face challenges with precision and ease of use due to rigid stems, which can lead to reduced application accuracy and difficulty in wiping, especially with certain wiper members, and lack flexibility to effectively apply makeup to keratinous fibers like eyelashes and eyebrows.
Innovation Solution
An applicator with a stem featuring an elastically deformable flexible portion that can flex during application and wiping, combined with a rigid portion, allowing for improved alignment and distribution of makeup, and a handle that enables natural hand movement for enhanced application precision and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the stem is made relatively rigid to provide structural support, then the applicator element remains stable, but the precision in applying makeup is reduced and the applicator cannot be wiped effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The stem is divided into multiple segments with different flexibility characteristics. The proximal portion (near the handle) is more rigid to provide structural support, while the distal portion (near the applicator element) is more flexible to enable precise application and effective wiping. This segmentation allows each portion to fulfill its specific functional requirements independently.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the stem are assigned different mechanical properties (rigidity/flexibility) according to their specific functional needs. The proximal portion has higher rigidity for structural support, while the distal portion has higher flexibility for precision application and wiping compatibility. This local differentiation of material properties resolves the contradiction between overall structural strength and local application precision.
2Ease of operation
If the stem is made very flexible to enable wiping and precision, then the applicator can be wiped satisfactorily and application precision improves, but the structural support and stability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The stem is segmented into proximal and distal portions with differentiated flexibility. The proximal portion maintains higher rigidity to provide necessary structural support, while the distal portion is designed with higher flexibility to enable effective wiping and precise application. This segmentation ensures that flexibility is provided only where needed without compromising overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical parameters (rigidity, flexibility) of the stem are varied along its length. The proximal portion has parameters optimized for structural support, while the distal portion has parameters optimized for flexibility, wiping capability, and application precision. This gradual or stepped change in parameters allows the stem to exhibit both strength and flexibility as required by different functional demands.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the applicator element is made relatively rigid to maintain shape, then structural stability is improved, but the ability to adapt to natural hand movements and achieve precision is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The stem is divided into portions with different flexibility characteristics. The proximal portion remains relatively rigid to maintain applicator element stability and proper orientation, while the distal portion is more flexible to accommodate natural hand movements and user positioning adjustments. This segmentation allows the applicator element to remain stable while the stem adapts to user movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The stem transitions from a static, uniformly rigid structure to a dynamic structure with varying flexibility along its length. The distal portion's increased flexibility allows it to dynamically adapt to user hand movements and positioning, while the proximal portion maintains rigidity to preserve the applicator element's stable orientation and composition.
4Ease of operation
If the stem is thin and flexible to improve wiping, then wiping effectiveness improves, but the precision in applying makeup is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The stem is segmented with the distal portion (near the applicator element) designed to be thin and flexible to enable effective wiping, while the proximal portion maintains sufficient thickness and rigidity to provide stable support for precise makeup application. This segmentation allows the thin, flexible section to contact the wiper member effectively without compromising the overall precision of the applicator.
Solution Approach 2:
The stem's cross-sectional dimensions and mechanical properties are differentiated locally along its length. The distal portion has reduced dimensions and increased flexibility optimized for wiping contact, while the proximal portion has larger dimensions and higher rigidity optimized for providing stable support during precision application. This local quality differentiation resolves the contradiction between wiping effectiveness and application precision.
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 flexible portion enhances application accuracy, reduces the risk of eye poking, and improves the extension and separation of eyelashes or eyebrow hairs by accumulating and releasing elastic energy, ensuring a uniform distribution of makeup while maintaining comfort and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
a stem (4) having a longitudinal axis and including at least one elastically-deformable flexible portion (20) that is suitable for flexing during application and/or wiping
Implementation Method 2
The restoration of elastic energy thus accumulated when the applicator element relaxes on arriving at the tips of the eyelashes or the eyebrow hairs may result in an acceleration and an additional movement that is likely to improve the extension and the separation of the eyelashes or the eyebrow hairs
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an applicator for applying a composition to keratinous fibers, in particular the eyelashes or the eyebrows, the applicator including a stem having a longitudinal axis and including at least one elastically-deformable flexible portion that is suitable for flexing during application and/or wiping; and an applicator element that is fastened to the stem and that includes a twisted wire core and bristles that extend transversally to the longitudinal axis of the stem.