Magnifying Lens on Applicator Cap for Precision Brush Tip Visualization
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cosmetic applicator brushes, such as those for nail polish and correction fluid, face challenges in precise application due to poor hand-eye coordination and lack of practical optical magnification, especially in non-stationary environments.
Innovation Solution
A container and applicator assembly with a magnifying lens affixed to a support arm extending from the cap, allowing the lens to magnify the brush tip and label without interfering with the brush's entry into the container, and optionally including illumination for enhanced visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a magnifying lens is affixed to the applicator brush, then optical magnification is provided for better visualization, but the lens may interfere with the brush's ability to enter the container
Solution Approach 1:
The magnifying lens assembly is segmented from the applicator brush, mounted on the cap rather than the brush shaft. This allows the lens to be positioned separately from the brush tip, providing magnification without interfering with the brush's ability to enter and operate within the container.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnifying lens is positioned in a different spatial dimension relative to the brush tip. By mounting the lens on the cap exterior rather than attaching it directly to the brush shaft, the lens operates in a separate spatial plane that does not conflict with brush insertion or container entry.
2Measurement precision
If a stationary magnifying station is used, then magnification is provided for precise application, but it requires both the brush and surface to be brought into range and is not practical in most situations
Solution Approach 1:
The magnifying lens is merged with the applicator brush assembly by mounting it on the cap. This integration allows the magnification function to move with the user, eliminating the need for separate stationary magnifying stations and enabling precise application in various environments including field conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The cap serves as an intermediary carrier that holds the magnifying lens and positions it appropriately relative to the brush tip. This intermediary structure enables the lens to provide magnification at the point of application without requiring a fixed installation or specialized environment.
3Reliability
If the cap is fully engaged with the threaded neck, then a leak-proof seal is created, but the brush must extend into the container interior through the threaded neck
Solution Approach 1:
The cap is designed with differentiated local qualities: the interior surface provides sealing engagement with the threaded neck to ensure leak-proof closure, while the exterior surface provides mounting structure for the magnifying lens. This local differentiation allows the cap to simultaneously achieve reliable sealing and support the magnification function without compromising either function.
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
Enables precise and controlled application of materials in various environments by providing magnified and illuminated views of the brush tip and label, improving application accuracy and visibility for users.
Implementation Method 1
A magnifying lens is coupled to the end of the support arm. When the cap is separated from the container, the magnifying lens magnifies the bristle tip of the applicator brush.
Implementation Method 2
The container has a threaded neck, wherein the interior of the container is accessible through the threaded neck. A removable cap is provided that selectively engages the threaded neck to create a leak-proof seal.
Data Source
AI summary
A container and applicator assembly that is used to hold and apply a liquid. The container has a threaded neck, through which the interior of the container is accessible. A removable cap is provided that selectively engages the threaded neck to create a leak-proof seal. An applicator brush extends downwardly from the center of the cap. The applicator brush extends into the interior of the container when the cap is engaged with the threaded neck. A support arm also extends from the cap. The support arm remains external to the container even when the cap is set. A magnifying lens is coupled to the end of the support arm. When the cap is separated from the container, the magnifying lens magnifies the bristle tip of the applicator brush. When the cap is set in place on the container, the magnifying lens magnifies a portion of the label.