Eyelash Applicator With Helical Spikes and Molded Bows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hybrid applicators with flexible thermoplastic cores and twisted metal branches are limited in their ability to effectively apply cosmetic products to eyelashes and eyebrows due to constraints on spike orientation and product retention.
Innovation Solution
An applicator with a thermoplastic core, molded bows, and twisted metal branches that form a helical path, allowing for efficient combing and separation of lashes, and providing a product reserve between the core and bows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the applicator member uses a flexible thermoplastic core with twisted metal branches to form helical spikes, then the combing and separation of lashes is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and constraints on spike orientation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator member is segmented into distinct functional components: a core for structural support, molded bows for product retention, and metal branches for twisting. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately with optimized properties and then assembled, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining the helical spike configuration for effective lash separation
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator member combines different materials with complementary properties: thermoplastic material for the core and bows providing flexibility and product retention, and metal branches providing structural integrity and twist stability. This composite construction enables the helical configuration to achieve effective lash combing while managing manufacturing constraints through specialized material properties
2Quantity of substance
If the applicator member uses molded bows with empty space between the core and bows, then product retention is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bows are molded directly onto the core in a single integrated operation, combining the core and bows into one piece during manufacturing. This merging eliminates the need for separate assembly steps while creating the empty space between the core and bows that serves as product reservoirs, thus improving product retention without significantly increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The molding process parameters are optimized to create bows with specific geometric characteristics, including the controlled empty space between the bows and core. By adjusting molding parameters such as material flow, pressure, and temperature, the design achieves effective product retention volumes while maintaining manufacturing efficiency and avoiding excessive complexity
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an applicator for applying a cosmetic product to the eyelashes and/or eyebrows, having an applicator member (8) having: —a core (10) made of polymer material, —at least one bow (12) molded with the core (10), and —a support (21) having two branches twisted around the core (10).