Flexible Cosmetic Applicator Tip for Bilateral Lip Application
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cosmetic applicator tips either restrict application to a single lip or are uncomfortable to use due to rigidity, and often accumulate product, making it difficult to apply the product evenly to both lips.
Innovation Solution
A flexible applicator tip with a 'mushroom' or 'umbrella' shape that envelops a support finger, reducing product accumulation and allowing for comfortable, even application to both lips by bending to accommodate the shape of the lips, featuring a cavity for product storage and a deformable material for ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a spatula-shaped applicator tip is used, then local application to a single lip is achieved, but application to both lips in a single pass is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator tip transitions from a traditional 2D spatula surface to a 3D spherical or ellipsoidal shape that wraps around the support rod. This volumetric design allows the application surface to contact both lips simultaneously in a single pass, transforming the application geometry from linear to three-dimensional coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator tip is divided into distinct functional zones: a spherical application surface for product delivery, a support rod for structural integrity, and a stem for connection to the container. This segmentation allows the application surface to be optimized for bilateral lip contact while maintaining structural stability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid applicator tip is used, then structural stability is maintained, but comfort during application deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator employs different material properties in different zones: the spherical application surface is made of soft, flexible material for comfort and adaptability to lip contours, while the support rod and stem use rigid materials for structural stability and precise positioning during application.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator combines materials with different mechanical properties - typically a flexible polymer for the application surface and a rigid plastic or metal for the support structure. This composite construction allows simultaneous achievement of comfort and structural integrity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a spherical endpiece is used, then application to both lips is enabled, but product accumulation between the endpiece and stem occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The design extracts and eliminates the problematic space between the application surface and support rod by making the spherical endpiece fit tightly around the rod. This removes the cavity where product would otherwise accumulate and be wasted, while preserving the bilateral application capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The spherical application surface is nested around the support rod in a concentric arrangement, with the inner surface of the sphere closely following the outer surface of the rod. This nested configuration minimizes the gap between components, preventing product accumulation in the interstitial space.
4Area of stationary object
If a large application surface is used, then coverage area is improved, but flexibility and comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The spherical application surface is constructed as a thin-walled flexible shell that can deform and adapt to the contours of the lips. This flexible membrane provides adequate application surface area while maintaining the flexibility needed for comfortable operation and precise product placement.
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 comfortable and efficient application of cosmetic product to both lips in a single pass without refilling, reducing product waste and enhancing user experience through flexibility and design.
Implementation Method 1
The applicator tip is made of a deformable material that allows it to bend and deform under pressure, conforming to the shape of the lips for a comfortable application
Data Source
Figure 1~6
Figure 7~8
AI summary
The invention relates to a cosmetic product applicator tip (10) comprising a fastening portion (11) adapted to be assembled in a support rod (40) and an application portion (20) for said product extending along a principal direction X. The fastening portion (11) comprises a support finger (15) external to the support rod (40). The application portion (20) is attached to the support finger (15) so as to enclose most of the support finger (15). The application portion (20) is configured to move from a rest position in which the support finger (15) and the proximal end (13) of the application portion (20) are free from any contact to a working position in which the support finger (15) and/or the application portion (20) bend so that the proximal end (13) of the application portion (20) is at the point of entering, or entering into contact with, the support finger. (15) and/or the support rod (40).