Push-Push Lipstick Cup Refill Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lipstick packaging devices are not cost-effective for refilling, as they require complex modifications and expensive interchangeable cups, leading to unnecessary waste when the product is depleted.
Innovation Solution
A device with a 'push-to-lock/push-to-release' latch system allows for easy refilling by using a cup with a stud engaged in a helical groove, enabling the upper cup to be locked and unlocked with a single axial thrust, reducing the need for costly modifications and allowing for simple refilling without damaging the product.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional lipstick packaging devices are used, then the structure is simple, but the device cannot be refilled and requires complete replacement when product is depleted
Solution Approach 1:
The cup is divided into two separable parts: an upper cup that holds the lipstick stick and a lower cup that remains in the device. This segmentation allows the upper cup to be removed and replaced when the product is depleted, enabling refilling without replacing the entire device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The upper cup nests within the lower cup during assembly and storage, with the upper cup being insertable into and removable from the lower cup. This nested configuration allows for compact storage while maintaining easy interchangeability of the product-holding portion.
2Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable cups are used to enable refilling, then refillability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the cup into reusable lower cup and replaceable upper cup, the manufacturing cost is distributed: the expensive lower cup with mechanism is made once, while cheaper upper cups can be mass-produced and replaced independently, reducing overall refilling costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The upper cup is designed as a disposable or replaceable component that can be manufactured at low cost, while the main device structure (lower cup) is reused. This approach reduces the cost burden of refilling compared to replacing entire expensive devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex removable cup mechanisms are used, then refillability is improved, but the structure becomes complex requiring significant modification
Solution Approach 1:
The lower cup is designed with universal features including the helical groove and longitudinal groove that work with both the original cup and the new upper cup. This universal design allows the lower cup to serve multiple functions: holding the cup, providing rotational movement, and enabling locking/unlocking, without requiring additional complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking/unlocking mechanism is merged into the cup structure itself through the stud and groove interaction, rather than being a separate mechanism. The stud on the lower cup engages with the helical groove and longitudinal groove to provide both movement control and locking function in an integrated manner.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the cup is made removable for refilling, then adaptability is improved, but the product may be damaged during removal
Solution Approach 1:
The upper cup containing the lipstick stick is extracted as a complete assembly from the lower cup, rather than disassembling the lipstick stick itself. This extraction method allows the product to be removed intact without applying radial mechanical stress or force that could damage the lipstick stick.
Solution Approach 2:
The stud and groove mechanism acts as an intermediary that transfers axial force during locking and unlocking without applying radial stress to the upper cup or product. The mechanical interaction is mediated through the grooves and stud, protecting the product from damaging forces.
Data Source
AI summary
A device (10) for packaging and applying a pasty product, notably a cosmetic product, comprising: a case (14); an external protective shell (30) mounted on the case (14) and provided on the interior surface thereof with at least one helical groove (36); a tubular element (40) mounted to rotate freely in said external protective shell (30), while being held axially relative to said shell and provided with at least one longitudinal groove (42); and a cup (20) supporting a stick (12) of product mounted to slide in said tubular element (40). The cup (20) comprises a lower cup (22) carrying the stud (23) and an upper cup (24) carrying the stick (12) of product and comprising an axial projection (24c) extending axially toward the base of the case (14) through an orifice (22d) provided on the lower cup (22), said lower and upper cups (22, 24) being integral via a “push-push” latch locking/unlocking system (50).