Segmented Mascara Applicator Discs for Eyelash Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mascara applicators produced by injection molding lack optimal design flexibility and application properties due to limitations in shaping and material selection, which affect eyelash separation and combing efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The applicator features a unique disc configuration with variable spacing, patterned geometry, and materials combination, including harder and softer plastics, with grooves and conical shapes to enhance eyelash separation and combing, achieved through advanced injection-molding techniques and materials like TPE, TPU, and metal tubes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional injection molding techniques are used for mascara applicators, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but design flexibility and application properties are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator trim is segmented into multiple discs arranged along the longitudinal axis, each disc capable of having different spacing, patterns, and geometries. This segmentation allows independent optimization of different regions for specific functions such as product distribution, eyelash separation, and curling effects.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the applicator are assigned different local qualities through variable disc spacing and patterning. The apex region has wider spacing (0.2 to 2.4 mm) for product distribution, while the base region has tighter spacing (0.0 to 1.2 mm) for combing and separation. Each disc can also have unique patterns tailored to its specific function.
2Ease of operation
If uniform disc spacing is used in conventional applicators, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but eyelash separation and combing efficiency are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The disc spacing is made dynamic rather than uniform, with the distance between adjacent discs varying along the longitudinal axis. This dynamic spacing configuration optimizes the progression from product distribution at the apex to combing and separation at the base, enhancing overall application performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacing parameter between discs is systematically changed along the longitudinal axis, with the apex region featuring wider spacing (0.2 to 2.4 mm) for effective product distribution and the base region featuring tighter spacing (0.0 to 1.2 mm) for superior combing and eyelash separation.
3Ease of operation
If single-material construction is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but application properties and longitudinal stability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator is constructed as a composite structure with the main body made from a harder plastic material providing longitudinal stability, and the discs made from a softer plastic material providing superior application properties. This composite material approach allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through injection molding.
4Quantity of substance
If simple disc geometry is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but product reservoir capacity and combing effect are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The flat disc structure is enhanced by adding longitudinal grooves that create three-dimensional reservoir spaces for product storage. These grooves extend in the longitudinal direction and can be offset between adjacent discs, increasing product capacity without significantly increasing the overall applicator size.
Solution Approach 2:
The disc surface is segmented into multiple functional zones including patterned regions for product distribution and grooved regions for reservoir formation. This segmentation allows different portions of each disc to perform specialized functions, maximizing both product capacity and application effectiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
In an applicator for a cosmetic product, especially for mascara or hair dye, comprising a main body that is connectable to a handle, said main body having a plurality of discs disposed parallel to one another, spaced apart from one another, provision is made for the discs to be patterned individually user-specifically.