Flexible-Heater Cosmetic Applicator for Exit-Only Product Heating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cosmetic and dermatologic product applicators face issues with uneven heating, bulkiness, power consumption, and unsuitability for flowable products due to reliance on plunger mechanisms and separate heating elements, leading to inefficient temperature control and product application.
Innovation Solution
A compact, integral applicator with a modular, printed electronic circuit and flexible heater technology, where heating occurs only at the exit structure, allowing for precise control and efficient heating of flowable products without substantial reservoir heating, using low voltage battery power and a closure mechanism to control product flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If heating means is associated with the reservoir in a separable applicator, then product can be heated before dispensing, but all product in the reservoir is subjected to repeated temperature cycles which may damage the product
Solution Approach 1:
The heating element is segmented to heat only the immediate dispensing area rather than the entire reservoir. This allows selective heating of product at the exit structure without subjecting the bulk product in the reservoir to temperature cycles, resolving the contradiction between achieving adequate product temperature and maintaining product integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The heating means is positioned to provide localized heating at the exit structure where product is dispensed. This creates a temperature gradient with the heated zone confined to the dispensing area, allowing the product to be warmed for application while the majority of product in the reservoir remains at safe temperatures.
2Temperature
If heating means is associated with the applicator in a separable applicator, then only product being dispensed is heated, but the applicator must be enlarged to house electronic circuitry and heating means
Solution Approach 1:
The heating means and electronic circuitry are merged into a single integrated unit that couples with the reservoir. This combination eliminates the need for separate heating components within the applicator, allowing the applicator to remain compact while still providing localized heating at the exit structure.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary coupling structure is introduced between the reservoir and applicator, containing the heating means and electronics in this intermediate component. This allows the applicator itself to remain small and sleek, while the heating functionality is housed in the coupling mechanism that connects the reservoir to the applicator.
3Productivity
If a plunger mechanism is used to dispense product, then product can be pushed through the applicator, but it is difficult to control the amount of product dispensed and the rate of dispensing
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical plunger system is replaced with a pressure differential-based dispensing mechanism. Product flow is controlled by regulating the pressure difference between the reservoir and the external environment, allowing precise control of dispensing rate and amount without the complexity of mechanical plunger mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispensing mechanism transitions from a static plunger position to a dynamic pressure-regulated system. The pressure differential can be adjusted in real-time to control the rate of product flow, providing continuous and precise control over dispensing parameters without mechanical complexity.
4Power
If high voltage is used for heating element, then heating efficiency is improved, but the device becomes less safe and requires higher power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical parameters are changed from high voltage to low voltage operation. By increasing the current at lower voltage, the heating element achieves adequate heating power while significantly improving safety. This parameter transformation allows the device to maintain effective heating performance without the safety hazards associated with high voltage.
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 solution provides safer, more portable, and efficient heating for cosmetic and dermatologic products, ensuring precise application and extended product usability while minimizing power consumption and avoiding bulkiness, making it suitable for a wide range of cosmetic and dermatologic treatments.
Implementation Method 1
a heating element in electrical communication with the power source and the circuit board, the heating element comprising a flexible heater
Data Source
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Figure 3
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AI summary
The present invention is an improved heated, integral applicator for flowable cosmetic and dermatologic products comprising flexible printed circuits and, optionally, flexible heater technology. The present invention is safer to use and has more reliable electronics than the prior art; is more convenient to use and carry; is capable of precise dosing; is simpler and cheaper to manufacture and assemble; offers special applicator tips for precise application of treatment and makeup products. The present invention is useful for applying cosmetic and dermatologic treatment products of all types, including products to treat skin, hair and nails. Suitable skin treatment products include those effective at deeper layers of the skin.