Large-Radius Cosmetic Container With Replaceable Fluid Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cosmetic dispensers pose challenges for individuals with dexterity issues due to compact form factors, making it difficult for those with conditions like arthritis or Parkinson's Disease to grip, pinch, and manipulate small objects.
Innovation Solution
A modular cosmetic dispenser system featuring a large-radius, grippable exterior container with a removable and replaceable dispensing module, incorporating a stem with a non-circular cross-section and a mechanical actuator for linear motion, and a soft overmolded grip material to facilitate easy handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a compact cosmetic dispenser is used, then the device is portable and space-efficient, but it becomes difficult for individuals with dexterity challenges to grip and manipulate
Solution Approach 1:
The cosmetic dispenser is divided into two separate components: a reusable exterior container and a replaceable interior dispensing module. This segmentation allows the container to be optimized for ergonomics and ease of gripping while the dispensing module can be easily replaced when depleted, resolving the contradiction between size and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The interior dispensing module is nested within the exterior container. The container houses the dispensing module, which contains the cosmetic product. This nested structure allows the container to provide ergonomic benefits while the compact dispensing module maintains portability and space efficiency.
2Ease of manufacture
If a reusable container is used, then waste is reduced and cost is lowered, but the container cannot be easily replaced when depleted
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the dispenser into a reusable container and a replaceable dispensing module, the system achieves both ease of manufacture and replaceability. The container can be mass-produced and reused, while the dispensing module is designed as a separate, easily replaceable component that can be manufactured simply and disposed of when depleted.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispensing module is designed as a disposable or easily replaceable component, while the container is reused. This approach allows the system to benefit from the simplicity of manufacturing disposable components while maintaining the economic benefits of reusing the larger container structure.
3Ease of operation
If a large-radius container is used, then ease of gripping is improved, but the device becomes less portable and more cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The segmentation into a reusable container and replaceable dispensing module allows the container to be optimized for ergonomics with a larger radius for easy gripping, while the dispensing module can be removed and replaced, reducing the overall weight and bulk when the cosmetic is depleted.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static, monolithic dispenser to a dynamic, modular system where the dispensing module can be removed and replaced. This dynamic configuration allows the container to maintain ergonomic dimensions while the overall system adapts to user needs by removing the dispensing module when no longer required.
Data Source
AI summary
A cosmetic system disclosed herein includes a container with a large-radius, grippable exterior that houses a smaller, modular cosmetic dispenser that can be removed and replaced to facilitate use of the exterior container. In one aspect, the modular cosmetic dispenser may be a solid cosmetic dispenser for lipstick or the like, with the mechanical components for dispensing the cosmetic contained withing the disposable, modular dispenser. In another aspect, the modular cosmetic dispenser may be a fluid cosmetic dispenser for a nail polish or the like, with a reservoir, threaded top, and applicator brush or the like integrated into the modular dispenser. As a significant advantage, this permits the re-use of a high-quality, ergonomically designed container with disposable modular cosmetics dispensers.