Eyelash Spoon with Concave Recesses for Mascara Application
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional eyelash curlers can damage or pull out eyelashes while applying mascara, and existing methods for applying mascara do not ensure a simple, effective, and safe application.
Innovation Solution
An ergonomic eyelash spoon with concave recesses and an adhering profile is used to apply pressure from the bottom, enhancing the natural curve of eyelashes and preventing clogging, while allowing for even application from the lash-line to the tips without obstructing the eyelid.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional eyelash curlers are used to apply mascara, then the eyelashes can be curled and mascara applied, but the eyelashes may be damaged or pulled out
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary tool - the eyelash spoon - that mediates between the mascara application process and the eyelashes. The spoon's concave recesses gently hold and guide the eyelashes during mascara application, replacing the direct mechanical action of conventional curlers that cause damage. The spoon acts as a protective intermediary that enables curling and application without harmful forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs curved surfaces - specifically concave recesses shaped to match the natural curvature of eyelashes - to gently embrace and shape the eyelashes. This curvature allows the spoon to follow the natural contour of the eyelashes during application, providing a safe alternative to flat or rigid curling surfaces that can cause damage. The curved geometry enables effective curling while distributing forces evenly across the eyelash structure.
2Productivity
If the eyelash spoon width is increased to cover more area, then more eyelashes can be treated at once, but the spoon may obstruct the eyelid near the nose
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry in the spoon's width distribution - the handle side has a different width than the recess side. This asymmetric design allows the spoon to accommodate the natural anatomy of the eye, providing sufficient coverage for eyelash treatment while avoiding obstruction of the eyelid area near the nose. The varying width profile optimizes both productivity and ease of operation across different regions of the eyelid.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by having different width characteristics at different locations of the spoon. The handle portion and recess portion have distinct width profiles optimized for their specific functions. This local differentiation allows the spoon to provide adequate eyelash coverage where needed while maintaining clearance over the eyelid near the nose, resolving the contradiction between coverage and accessibility.
3Shape
If pressure is applied to enhance eyelash curve, then the natural curve is enhanced, but the eyelashes may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The concave recesses of the eyelash spoon serve as an intermediary structure that distributes pressure evenly across the eyelashes during curve enhancement. Rather than applying concentrated mechanical force that could cause damage, the spoon's recessed geometry spreads the shaping force across multiple contact points, enabling effective curve enhancement while protecting the eyelash structure from localized stress and damage.
Data Source
AI summary
An eyelash spoon (1) and a method for applying mascara to the eyelashes (19) on an eyelid (9) permit an easy and effective application of mascara to the eyelashes (19). The eyelash spoon (1) includes a dish-type body (3) with cut-out sections (11a, 11b) matching the shape of the eye. The convex exterior of the dish-type body (3) serves as a bearing surface for the eyelash brush. A handle for holding the eyelash spoon (1) can be attached permanently or in a detachable manner to the shell (3).