Reusable Tampon Applicator with Snap-Fit Barrel and Plunger

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tampon applicators are not reusable, leading to consumer waste and lack a convenient method for storing tampons before use.

Innovation Solution

A tampon applicator design featuring a barrel and plunger with a snap-fit mechanism, a storage compartment, and tactile feedback for easy tampon insertion and ejection, allowing for reusability and hygienic storage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of substance

If disposable tampon applicators are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but environmental waste increases and reusability is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovewasteVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of substanceVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The applicator is divided into two separable components: a reusable barrel and a disposable plunger with tampon. The barrel can be reused multiple times while the plunger and tampon are discarded after single use. This segmentation allows the persistent barrel to be manufactured with higher quality materials for reusability, while the disposable portion remains simple to manufacture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The reusable barrel serves multiple functions: it stores the tampon, provides structural support during insertion, and can be reused across multiple applications. The barrel's multi-functionality justifies its more complex construction and higher material quality, as it replaces multiple disposable applicators over time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Duration of action of stationary object

If a reusable applicator is designed, then reusability and waste reduction are achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovereusabilityVSAvoidapplicator structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

By separating the applicator into a permanent barrel and a disposable plunger, the complex reusable components are isolated to only the barrel portion. The plunger remains simple and disposable, so the overall system complexity is managed while achieving reusability of the critical barrel component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The plunger with the tampon is inserted into the barrel, creating a nested configuration. The barrel provides a protective housing that guides the plunger during insertion and ejection. This nesting arrangement allows the reusable barrel to contain the disposable components without requiring additional complex external structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Ease of operation

If a snap-fit mechanism is used for barrel and plunger connection, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetampon insertion and ejectionVSAvoidsnap-fit alignment

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The snap-fit mechanism is designed to self-align and self-latch when the plunger is inserted into the barrel. The protrusions on the plunger automatically engage with corresponding recesses in the barrel without requiring precise manual alignment. This self-service characteristic simplifies operation while the manufacturing precision requirements are confined to the snap-fit features themselves, not the entire assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

4Adaptability or versatility

If a storage compartment is added to the applicator, then hygienic storage capability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetampon storage capabilityVSAvoidapplicator structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The storage compartment function is merged with the barrel structure itself. The barrel's internal chamber serves as the storage compartment for the tampon, eliminating the need for a separate storage container. This integration provides hygienic enclosed storage while avoiding the addition of separate complex components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The barrel serves dual functions: it is both the structural housing for the applicator and the storage compartment for the tampon. This multi-functionality provides storage capability without requiring additional dedicated storage components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11324643B1Reusable tampon applicator

Publication Date: 2022.05.10 SAMSON JESSICA

AI summary

A tampon applicator has a barrel and a plunger. The barrel extends from a proximal end to a distal end, the distal end having a base opening, and the proximal end having an upper opening exposing an inner chamber. A window formed in the barrel is shaped to receive a tampon. A set of protrusions extends inwardly from the inner chamber proximate the distal end of the barrel, and an inner ring of the inner chamber is proximate the distal end of the barrel. The plunger extends from a first end to a second end, the first end having a base. A top ring is on the base of the plunger, wherein the inner ring of the barrel is adapted to removably snap into the top ring. A annular ridge is on the second end of the plunger for threaded engagement with the set of protrusions of the barrel.