Pigmented Sunscreen Applicator Tip for Precise Pattern Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sunscreens are designed for even application over large areas of skin, lacking precision for detailed application such as creating designs or patterns, and do not allow users to distinguish applied from non-applied areas.
Innovation Solution
A liquid applicator device with a tip having varying edge thicknesses and a porous foam mechanism to control stroke thickness, combined with a sunscreen mixture containing a thinning agent and pigment for precise application, allowing differentiation between applied and non-applied areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional liquid sunscreen applicators (spray bottles, dropper tips, pad applicators) are used, then sunscreen can be applied evenly over large skin surfaces, but precision for detailed application is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The nib is designed with non-uniform thickness (first thickness different from second thickness) to provide different stroke thicknesses at different edges, enabling precise control of sunscreen application width and pattern creation while maintaining the ability to cover various skin areas
2Loss of information
If conventional sunscreen applicators are used, then large areas can be covered, but visual distinction between applied and non-applied areas is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
A pigment agent is added to the sunscreen mixture to provide color, allowing users to visually distinguish between areas where sunscreen has been applied and areas that remain unprotected, improving application monitoring without significant structural complexity
3Manufacturing precision
If thick sunscreen mixture is used for precise application, then control over stroke thickness is improved, but the mixture becomes too viscous for smooth application
Solution Approach 1:
A thinning agent is added to the sunscreen mixture to reduce its viscosity to an optimal range (10-100 cP), enabling smooth flow through the nib while maintaining sufficient thickness control for precise application and pattern creation
4Ease of manufacture
If a fixed-volume container is used, then manufacturing is simplified, but sustainability and refillability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid container is designed with a removable cap and opening that allows the sunscreen mixture to be refilled, transforming the container from a static single-use component to a dynamic reusable system that can be replenished, enhancing sustainability while maintaining manufacturing simplicity
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 detailed application of sunscreen for artistic designs, providing visual distinction between applied and non-applied areas, and includes refillable containers for sustainability.
Implementation Method 1
a porous foam mechanism to control stroke thickness
Data Source
AI summary
Liquid applicator devices and related methods are disclosed. A liquid applicator device includes a liquid container having a first end and a second end, a sunscreen mixture within the liquid container, and a tip configured to couple to the first end. The sunscreen mixture includes a pigment agent, a thinning agent, and a sunscreen material. The sunscreen mixture has a viscosity of less than or equal to 100 centapoise (cP). The tip is configured to release the sunscreen mixture on a surface in contact with the tip.