Reusable Applicator with Biodegradable Roller Core
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Solution Overview
Problem
The environmental impact of single-use plastic containers for consumable preparations, such as sunscreen and deodorant, contributes to plastic waste and pollution due to their non-biodegradability and persistence in landfills and oceans.
Innovation Solution
A reusable applicator assembly with a roller assembly that incorporates a recyclable, biodegradable, or reusable core, allowing a solid consumable preparation to be fixedly connected to its exterior surface, reducing the need for single-use plastic containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If plastic containers are used for consumable preparations, then durability and long-lasting container properties are improved, but environmental persistence and biodegradation resistance worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The invention separates the container into two distinct components: a reusable applicator body (handle, arm, axle) and a consumable preparation carrier (roller with core). This segmentation allows the durable parts to be reused indefinitely while the consumable preparation is applied and depleted, eliminating the need for continuous plastic container disposal.
Solution Approach 2:
The consumable preparation is applied to the roller surface and gradually depleted through use. Once depleted, only the small roller core needs to be discarded (or recycled), while the main applicator body is recovered and reused. This dramatically reduces plastic waste compared to discarding entire plastic containers.
2Ease of operation
If single-use plastic containers are used, then ease of application is improved, but environmental pollution and landfill contribution worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The consumable preparation is directly applied to the roller surface, which then self-applies the product to the user's skin through rolling motion. The preparation serves itself by being transferred from the roller to the skin without requiring additional containers or application mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The consumable preparation is depleted through use and the roller core is discarded or recycled, while the applicator is recovered and reused. This reduces environmental pollution by minimizing single-use plastic while maintaining application convenience.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If reusable applicators with recyclable cores are used, then environmental sustainability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator is divided into modular components (handle, arm, axle, roller, core) that can be independently manufactured, assembled, and maintained. This segmentation makes the overall system manageable despite its complexity, allowing each component to be optimized for its specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator body (handle, arm, axle) serves as a universal, reusable platform that can accommodate different roller cores and consumable preparations. This multi-functionality justifies the initial complexity by enabling long-term reuse and reducing overall waste.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an apparatus for applying a consumable preparation including an applicator assembly and a roller assembly. The applicator assembly includes a handle, an arm longitudinally extending from one end of the handle, and an axle connected to the arm and longitudinally spaced from the handle. The roller assembly includes a core having at least one end cap configured to rotatably receive the axle. The core extends transversely from the at least one end cap, and a solid consumable preparation is fixedly connected to at least an exterior surface of the core.