Lip Applicator with Segmented Lattice for Flexible Product Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lip product application devices lack adaptability to the changing shape of lips, comfort, and uniformity during application, with a need for improved flexibility and autonomy in product delivery.
Innovation Solution
A lip product applicator with a flexible design featuring a frame and central core, multiple apertures, and thin members that allow for deformation in multiple directions, providing a high degree of flexibility and product retention, and releasing product progressively for uniform application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the applicator member has a rigid structure with two arms delimiting a central cavity, then it can hold product effectively, but it has relatively low flexibility in contact with the lips
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator member is segmented into multiple thin members (at least four longitudinal, transverse or oblique members) that form a lattice structure with apertures between them. This segmentation allows each thin member to flex independently while collectively maintaining product retention capability through the apertures that hold the product.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs thin members (with thickness defining spacing less than 3mm between application faces) that act as flexible elements. These thin members can deform in longitudinal and transverse directions to adapt to the changing shape of lips while still effectively retaining product through their collective structure and apertures.
2Ease of manufacture
If the applicator member has a simple structure, then it is easy to manufacture, but it lacks adaptability to the changing profile of the lips
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator member is divided into multiple thin members arranged in a lattice pattern with apertures. This segmented structure can be manufactured using conventional techniques while providing the adaptability needed for different lip profiles during application.
Solution Approach 2:
The lattice structure with multiple thin members allows the applicator to dynamically adapt its shape during application. The members can deform independently in longitudinal and transverse directions to match the changing profile of lips from one corner to the other.
3Strength
If the applicator member has thick members, then it provides structural strength, but it reduces flexibility and comfort during application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses thin members with thickness defining spacing less than 3mm between the two opposite application faces. These thin members provide sufficient structural strength to maintain the applicator's form while enabling the flexibility and comfort needed during lip application.
Solution Approach 2:
Rather than using one thick member, the structure is segmented into multiple thin members connected by joints. This segmentation distributes structural loads while maintaining flexibility, as each thin member can flex independently while the collective structure maintains overall strength.
4Ease of manufacture
If the applicator member has a uniform structure, then it is simple to manufacture, but it cannot provide uniform product distribution across different lip areas
Solution Approach 1:
The lattice structure with multiple apertures and thin members creates multiple product contact points distributed across the applicator surface. This segmentation enables uniform product distribution as product is delivered through multiple apertures simultaneously, achieving consistent application across different lip areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The apertures are distributed across the applicator member surface, allowing product to be retained and released at multiple locations. This creates local product delivery zones that ensure uniform coverage across the lips, with each aperture serving as a localized product release point.
Data Source
Figure 1~5b
Figure 6a~6o
Figure 6p~10
AI summary
Device (1) for packaging and applying a cosmetic or care product to the lips, comprising: - a container (2) containing the product to be applied to the lips, and an applicator member (6) comprising at least three apertures formed between at least four longitudinal, transverse or oblique members.