Gel Cosmetic Applicator for Soft Cooling Application
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cosmetics applicators, particularly those with cooling metal tips, are hard and stiff, lacking the softness and gentleness required for a comfortable and even product application.
Innovation Solution
The development of a gel-based applicator that conveys a cooling sensation without refrigeration, utilizing a polymer composition that is semi-liquid to semi-solid, capable of deformation and resilience, and can be configured with or without an outer membrane, providing a cushioning effect and even product distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If cooling metal tips are used on cosmetics packaging, then cooling sensation is provided, but the applicator becomes hard and stiff
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameters from metal to gel, maintaining the cooling sensation property while fundamentally altering the mechanical properties to achieve softness and flexibility. The gel material exhibits temperature-dependent viscosity changes, providing cooling effect without the hardness of metal.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses composite gel formulations combining multiple polymers (polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, carbomer) to achieve a material that simultaneously provides thermal properties for cooling sensation and mechanical properties for softness and flexibility, resolving the contradiction between cooling function and material hardness.
2Ease of operation
If gel material is used for applicator, then softness and comfort are improved, but structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The gel applicator incorporates localized reinforcement elements such as a rigid core or support structure within the soft gel matrix. This allows different regions of the applicator to have different mechanical properties - soft at the contact surface for comfort, and structurally stable in the body for support.
Solution Approach 2:
The gel applicator is designed with specific geometric configurations including curved surfaces and optimized cross-sectional shapes that enhance structural stability through geometric reinforcement, allowing the soft gel material to maintain its form and resist deformation during use.
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 gel applicator offers a softer, more comfortable application experience, ensuring a smooth and even product application, reducing waste and the risk of bacterial contamination, while maintaining structural stability and support.
Implementation Method 1
The gel, in some embodiments, is capable of delivering a sensation of coolness, at ambient temperatures... a polymer composition which exhibits both liquid and solid characteristics... capable of deformation yet have a resilience that allows it to rebound
Implementation Method 2
The gel, in some embodiments, is capable of delivering a sensation of coolness, at ambient temperatures, without the need for refrigeration or outside cooling
Data Source
AI summary
Cosmetics packaging and applicators including a gel based tip are described. Gel applicators may or may not be provided with a through-hole. In various embodiments, the gel may be a stand-alone gel or may be encapsulated in a membrane. The gel applicator provides a soft feel and may have cooling effect as well. In some embodiments, the applicator is mounted to a platform or a hollow insert and coupled to a container housing the cosmetics product.