Integrated Applicator Wiper and Retainer for Lower-Cost Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cosmetic product packaging devices are expensive to produce due to the assembly of multiple components, while also requiring rapid opening/closure and effective wiping of the applicator stem.
Innovation Solution
A device with a single component that integrates both retaining and wiping functions, featuring fastening reliefs and immobilizing reliefs to ensure economical manufacturing and easy operation, using thermoplastic materials like PET or PP for cost-effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate components (wiper and retaining component) are used to ensure proper functioning, then the device achieves reliable wiping and retaining functions, but the manufacturing cost increases due to assembly complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the wiper and retaining component into a single integrated component made from a single piece of thermoplastic material. This merging eliminates the need for separate assembly steps while maintaining both the wiping function (through the wiper portion) and the retaining function (through the retaining reliefs formed on the same component), thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost without sacrificing reliability
2Ease of manufacture
If a single integrated component is used to reduce manufacturing cost, then the device becomes more economical to produce, but the reliability of wiping and retaining functions may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Within the single integrated component, the patent incorporates distinct functional zones: a wiper portion with a wiper lip for contacting and wiping the applicator member, and a retaining portion with retaining reliefs for engaging the applicator stem. This internal segmentation of functions within a unified structure allows the component to perform multiple roles reliably while remaining manufacturable as a single piece, thus resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and functional reliability
Data Source
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AI summary
Device (10) for packaging and applying a fluid product (P), having: - a container (11) having a neck (110), - an applicator (12), having an applicator member (120) borne by a stem (121) and at least one fastening relief (122) protruding from the stem, and - a component (13) molded in one piece, for retaining the applicator and wiping the applicator member, fastened to the container, this component having a wiping part (132) and a retaining part (130) having at least one retaining relief (131) beneath which said fastening relief (122) engages when the applicator is mounted on the container, the wiping part (132) being connected on only a portion of its periphery to the retaining part (130), so as to provide at least one opening (14) beneath said retaining relief (131), this opening emerging axially away from the retaining relief.