Removable Lighting Unit for Cosmetic Applicator

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cosmetic containers with illumination functions are inconvenient because the illumination apparatus is not separable and cannot be used independently, limiting its practical applications.

Innovation Solution

An illuminating cosmetic applicator design featuring a removable lighting unit that can be separated from the cosmetic applicator part, comprising a transparent cosmetic applicator, a connector, and a lighting unit with a light gathering cover, light emitting element, battery housing, and switch, allowing independent use.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the illumination apparatus is integrated into the cosmetic container, then the cosmetic application in dark places is enabled, but the illumination apparatus cannot be separated and used independently

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveillumination functionalityVSAvoidseparability of illumination apparatus
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The illumination apparatus is divided into a separate removable module that can be detached from the cosmetic container. This module includes the light source, battery, and control components, allowing it to be separated and used independently as a portable light source while maintaining the integrated function when attached.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The illumination apparatus is designed to serve dual purposes: when attached to the cosmetic container, it provides illumination for cosmetic application; when detached, it functions as an independent portable light source. This multi-functionality increases adaptability without compromising ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the illumination apparatus is made separable, then independent use is enabled, but the connection structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindependent use capabilityVSAvoidconnection structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection structure is segmented into standardized interfaces on both the cosmetic container and illumination module. These interfaces use simple geometric shapes (such as protruding and recessed structures) that enable easy attachment and detachment without complex mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining separability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Illumination intensity

If the cosmetic applicator part is made transparent, then light transmission is improved, but the aesthetic appearance may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight transmissionVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The cosmetic applicator is designed with local quality variations: the main body or specific light-transmission areas are made transparent to maximize light transmission, while other portions maintain traditional aesthetic designs. This allows different parts to serve different functions optimally without compromising overall appearance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The transparent portions are strategically positioned asymmetrically to balance light transmission needs with aesthetic considerations. The transparent areas are concentrated where light transmission is most critical, while decorative elements are placed in areas less critical for light passage, creating an asymmetric but harmonious design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

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 effective illumination for cosmetic application in dark places while allowing the lighting unit to be used separately as a flashlight, enhancing practicality and convenience.

Implementation Method 1

a light emitting element disposed in the light gathering cover

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight Emitting Diode: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 2

a light gathering cover arranged in a housing, and a light emitting element disposed in the light gathering cover

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight gathering: Lens

Data Source

PatentUS8425077B2Illuminating cosmetic applicator
Publication Date: 2013.04.23 LI SHIN TAI
  • US8425077B2 patent drawing
  • US8425077B2 patent drawing
  • US8425077B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An illuminating cosmetic applicator is revealed. The illuminating cosmetic applicator includes a cosmetic applicator part, a connector, and a lighting unit. The cosmetic applicator part is made from a transparent material. One end of the connector is connected to the cosmetic applicator part while the other end thereof is mounted with the lighting unit. The lighting unit consists of a light gathering cover mounted in a housing, and a light emitting element in the light gathering cover. Batteries are received in the housing. Moreover, a groove mounted with a switch is arranged at the housing. A block is connected to the inner side of the switch. Thereby light is emitted through the cosmetic applicator part while applying cosmetics in a dark place. Furthermore, the lighting unit can be separated with the cosmetic applicator part and used for illumination independently. The illuminating cosmetic applicator has more practical value.