Oral Applicator Tip Ridges Channels Emulsion Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices face challenges in consistently applying hydrophobic emulsion compositions to hydrophilic oral cavity surfaces, such as wetted teeth, due to energetically unfavorable interactions, leading to low transfer rates and inconsistent deposition, and are often difficult to clean and reuse.
Innovation Solution
An applicator device with an applicator tip featuring external and internal ridges and channels, designed for self-application, which facilitates even distribution and easy cleaning by preventing material accumulation and allowing for effective transfer of hydrophobic compositions to hydrophilic surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hydrophobic emulsion compositions are applied directly to hydrophilic oral cavity surfaces, then application is attempted, but transfer rate is low and deposition is inconsistent due to energetically unfavorable hydrophobic-hydrophilic interactions
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator tip acts as an intermediary device between the hydrophobic emulsion composition and the hydrophilic oral cavity surfaces. The tip's surface properties and geometry mediate the transfer process, enabling consistent deposition despite the unfavorable hydrophobic-hydrophilic interaction. The ridges and channels on the tip surface facilitate controlled release and even distribution of the emulsion composition across the treatment area.
2Ease of operation
If traditional applicators are used to apply emulsion compositions, then application is achieved, but cleaning is difficult and reuse is problematic due to material accumulation
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator tip surface is segmented into multiple functional zones including ridges and channels. This segmentation prevents continuous material accumulation by creating discrete areas that facilitate drainage and reduce adhesion points. The segmented structure allows for more effective cleaning between uses, enabling reuse of the applicator device.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator tip incorporates a porous structure with ridges and channels that allow emulsion composition to pass through and drain efficiently. This porous architecture reduces material retention on the surface, making the device easier to clean and more suitable for multiple uses while maintaining application consistency.
3Reliability
If strips are used to deliver emulsion compositions, then delivery is achieved, but strips shift in the oral cavity and are discarded after each use
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator tip utilizes a flexible thin film structure that can conform to the contours of oral cavity surfaces including teeth and gums. This flexibility allows the applicator to maintain stable placement during application without shifting, while the controlled geometry ensures consistent delivery of the emulsion composition. The design enables reuse unlike disposable strips.
Data Source
AI summary
An applicator for the application of an oral care composition to an oral cavity. The applicator may include an applicator tip and an applicator handle detachably or non-detachably connected to a proximal end of the applicator tip. The applicator tip may include an external ridge, a plurality of internal ridges, and a plurality of internal channels between the plurality of internal ridges.