Magnetic Torque Limiter for Cosmetic Applicator Binding

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional mascara applicators require manual dexterity and multiple passes to uniformly coat eyelashes, and automated systems can cause eyelashes to become bound or enmeshed with the applicator, leading to inefficiencies and potential discomfort.

Innovation Solution

A cosmetic applicator with a torque limiter, featuring a magnetic, slip, or fluidic coupling mechanism that limits the rotational torque applied to the eyelashes, preventing excessive force and binding by decoupling the applicator head from the drive when a predetermined torque is exceeded.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If automated rotational motion is used to apply mascara, then application efficiency is improved, but eyelashes may become bound or enmeshed with the applicator

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveapplication efficiencyVSAvoideyelash binding

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A torque limiter is introduced as an intermediary component between the drive mechanism and the applicator head. This torque limiter includes a magnetic coupling that acts as a mediator to transmit rotational motion while limiting the maximum torque applied to the eyelashes, preventing binding and enmeshment while maintaining efficient automated application.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the torque parameter by using a magnetic coupling with predetermined torque characteristics. The magnetic coupling allows rotational motion to be transmitted efficiently while automatically limiting the torque to a safe level, thus maintaining productivity while preventing harmful effects on the eyelashes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Object-affected harmful factors

If magnetic coupling is used to limit torque, then eyelash binding is prevented, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveeyelash bindingVSAvoidcoupling mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical torque-limiting mechanisms with a magnetic coupling system. The magnetic coupling inherently limits torque through magnetic field interactions without requiring complex mechanical components such as springs, friction surfaces, or mechanical governors, thus reducing overall device complexity while still preventing eyelash binding.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 torque limiter ensures efficient and gentle application of mascara by preventing eyelash binding and enmeshment, reducing user effort and minimizing the risk of eyelid tugging, while maintaining effective coverage.

Implementation Method 1

The torque limiter includes a magnetic coupling, the magnetic coupling being coupled to at least one of the drive and the applicator head such that the torque applied via the applicator head does not exceed a predetermined allowable torque.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic coupling: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS8485201B2Cosmetic applicator with torque limiter

Publication Date: 2013.07.16 NOXELL CORP

AI summary

A cosmetic applicator includes a handle, a drive coupled to the handle, an applicator head coupled to the drive, and a torque limiter. The torque limiter includes a magnetic coupling, the magnetic coupling being coupled to at least one of the drive and the applicator head such that the torque applied via the applicator head does not exceed a predetermined allowable torque.