Flow-Thru Cosmetic Applicator with Hinge-Controlled Conduit

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing flow-thru cosmetic applicator packages face issues with unwanted product flow due to adverse pressure differentials, gravity, and vibration, leading to inefficiencies in product distribution and user experience, particularly when components require precise manufacturing tolerances and complex mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

A flow-thru applicator package with a deformable, resilient conduit that extends into the applicator tip, controlled by a simple deforming mechanism using biased hinges and a closure to manage product flow, eliminating the need for complex components and precise seals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a simple snap-fit or friction-fit insert is used to hold the applicator tip, then the device complexity is reduced, but unwanted product flow occurs due to inadequate sealing against pressure differentials

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveclosure mechanism complexityVSAvoidproduct flow control reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The closure mechanism transitions from a static sealed state to a dynamic open state through a hinge rotation action. The hinge allows the closure to pivot between blocking the flow passage (closed position) and allowing flow (open position), providing dynamic control over product flow while maintaining simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The hinge acts as an intermediary mechanical element between the closure and the flow passage. It translates the user's opening action into the appropriate motion to open the flow passage, and automatically returns to the closed position to seal the passage, mediating between user input and flow control without requiring complex mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If the flow passage ends at the base of the bristles inside the container insert, then the device structure is simplified, but product distribution on the bristles becomes uneven

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflow passage structureVSAvoidproduct distribution uniformity

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The flow passage is extended from its conventional termination at the base of the bristles deep into the bristle tuft along the longitudinal axis. This dimensional extension allows product to be delivered to the interior of the brush, where it can distribute more evenly throughout the bristle structure rather than accumulating at the base.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Device complexity

If the flow passage is sealed by abutment of two surfaces that snap fit together, then the sealing mechanism is simple, but the flow passage remains closed even without squeezing the reservoir

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesealing mechanismVSAvoidproduct flow activation

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The closure mechanism transitions from a static sealed state to a dynamic open state through a hinge rotation action. The hinge allows the closure to pivot between blocking the flow passage (closed position) and allowing flow (open position), providing dynamic control over product flow while maintaining simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The hinge acts as an intermediary mechanical element between the closure and the flow passage. It translates the user's opening action into the appropriate motion to open the flow passage, and automatically returns to the closed position to seal the passage, mediating between user input and flow control without requiring complex mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Reliability

If the flow passage is only open when the bottle is being squeezed, then product flow is controlled, but the user must maintain a tight grip on the reservoir during manipulation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveproduct flow controlVSAvoiduser manipulation comfort

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The closure mechanism transitions from a static sealed state to a dynamic open state through a hinge rotation action. The hinge allows the closure to pivot between blocking the flow passage (closed position) and allowing flow (open position), providing dynamic control over product flow while maintaining simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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

This design ensures reliable, even product distribution without the need for complex mechanisms or precise manufacturing, preventing unwanted flow when not in use and allowing continuous flow without user effort, enhancing user experience and product utilization.

Implementation Method 1

a deformable, resilient conduit capable of conducting product between the reservoir and the base of the applicator tip

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS7384208B2Flow-thru cosmetic applicator package

Publication Date: 2008.06.10 E L MANAGEMENT CORP

AI summary

The present invention is a flow-thru cosmetic dispenser and applicator that comprises a means for controlling the flow of product from a reservoir to an applicator tip. The flow control means comprises wedge structures attached to biased hinges. The wedge structures move on the hinges in response to the removal or placement of a closure. The movement of the wedges alternately opens and pinches-off a deformable conduit in which the product flows. The invention includes means for converting any ordinary cosmetic container into a flow-thru container.