Mascara Packaging Centering and Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cosmetic packaging, such as mascara units, are costly and time-consuming to manufacture due to complex processes like injection molding and ultrasound welding, which hinder the production of cost-effective and aesthetically appealing designs.
Innovation Solution
A centering device at the bottom of the outer covering interacts with the reservoir, enabling a locking groove and bead mechanism for axial engagement, allowing separate and cost-effective manufacturing of the reservoir and covering, with a spigot and recess providing automatic centering and a non-rotary connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional injection molding or insert technique is used to manufacture packaging, then the optical impression and quality appearance are improved, but the manufacturing cost and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging is divided into separate components (reservoir and outer covering) that are manufactured independently and then assembled. This allows each component to be produced using simpler, more efficient processes while maintaining the overall optical quality through precise assembly geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly mechanism uses self-centering features (centering device, locking groove, locking bead) that automatically align and secure components during assembly without requiring complex external equipment or multi-step processes, thereby improving manufacturing efficiency.
2Strength
If conventional insert technique or ultrasound welding is used, then the structural integrity and connection strength are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex welding or multi-step injection molding processes with a simple mechanical interlocking system consisting of a centering device, locking groove, and locking bead. This mechanical system provides sufficient connection strength while dramatically simplifying the manufacturing process.
3Quantity of substance
If the distance between reservoir and covering is reduced to minimize material use, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but the optical effect is impaired due to wall contact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent solves the space constraint by using axial positioning (along the axis of the container) rather than radial positioning. The centering device and locking mechanism maintain the required optical gap in the radial direction while minimizing the overall axial length, allowing small material gaps without compromising optical effects.
Data Source
AI summary
In an effect packaging for a cosmetic, in particular a mascara unit, comprising a reservoir for the cosmetic and a lucent covering surrounding the reservoir, wherein the reservoir and covering are at least partially spaced from one another, it is provided that a centering device cooperating with the bottom of the reservoir is provided at the bottom of the outer covering, and that the reservoir and the outer covering are engageable with one another by the cooperation of a locking groove and a locking bead by an axial relative movement, for achieving an attractive appearance accompanied with a cost-effective producibility.