On-Demand Mixing System for Skincare Ingredient Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Many skincare formulations contain active ingredients that degrade quickly when exposed to oxygen and ultraviolet light, leading to a significant loss of concentration over time, such as up to half in eight weeks.
Innovation Solution
A mixing system comprising a powder assembly and a liquid assembly, each with dispensing means, that allows for on-demand mixing of a predetermined quantity of powder and liquid in optimal proportions, protecting the ingredients from degradation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If active ingredients are stored in ready-to-use formulations, then convenience is improved, but stability and efficacy deteriorate due to degradation from oxygen and ultraviolet light exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The formulation is divided into two separate containers: one containing the active ingredient in powder form and another containing the liquid base. This segmentation prevents premature contact between components that would trigger degradation, allowing the active ingredient to remain stable until the moment of use when the two components are mixed.
Solution Approach 2:
The active ingredient is pre-prepared in a stable, dormant state as a powder that does not require refrigeration or special storage conditions. The liquid base is separately prepared and stored. Both components are ready for use but remain inactive until mixed, eliminating the need for continuous stabilization measures during storage.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If formulations are designed for long shelf life, then storage duration is improved, but concentration and potency are lost over time
Solution Approach 1:
The active ingredient is extracted from the liquid base and stored separately in powder form. This extraction removes the active component from the degrading environment (liquid medium exposed to oxygen and light), allowing it to maintain full concentration and potency indefinitely until the moment of reconstitution.
3Ease of operation
If ingredients are mixed in advance, then convenience is improved, but accuracy of dosing and optimal proportions are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system includes built-in dosing mechanisms that automatically provide precise measurements. The powder container has a dispensing mechanism that releases a predetermined amount, and the liquid base has a pump or dispenser that delivers an exact volume, ensuring optimal proportions without requiring user measurement or estimation.
Data Source
AI summary
A mixing assembly, device, system and method for operating are provided which includes a powder assembly holding a first container containing a powder, the powder assembly having a powder dispensing means for dispensing a predetermined quantity of the powder, a liquid assembly holding a second container containing a liquid, the liquid assembly having a liquid dispensing means for dispensing a predetermined amount of the liquid, and a mixing bowl for receiving the predetermined quantity of the powder and the predetermined amount of the liquid.