Sliding Mascara Applicator Structure for Lash Separation and Curling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mascara applicators lack flexibility and synchronization of movable parts, leading to imperfect application, rigidity, and clogging issues, while professional makeup techniques require synchronized back-and-forth movements for optimal lash curling and lengthening.
Innovation Solution
A cosmetic applicator with a fixed part and a movable part, featuring regularly distributed orifices and protrusions, allowing longitudinal and transverse movements, enhancing lash separation and curling effects, and incorporating a sliding pivot joint for enhanced flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a rigid applicator structure is used, then manufacturing precision and structural stability are improved, but user comfort and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator is divided into a fixed part and a movable part that can slide relative to each other along the longitudinal axis. The fixed part contains protrusions for applying cosmetic product, while the movable part contains additional protrusions that can independently move, allowing the applicator to adapt to different lash configurations while maintaining structural integrity through the segmented design
Solution Approach 2:
The movable part is designed to slide longitudinally within the fixed part, transforming the static rigid structure into a dynamic system. This sliding mechanism allows the applicator to adapt its shape and position during use, improving comfort and adaptability while the fixed part maintains manufacturing precision and structural stability
2Adaptability or versatility
If a movable part with protrusions is added, then adaptability and product application quality are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable part is nested within the fixed part, with both components containing protrusions that work together. The movable part slides within the fixed part's longitudinal space, creating a compact nested structure that improves product application quality through coordinated protrusion action while avoiding the need for separate complex mechanisms
3Ease of operation
If protrusions are made movable, then ease of operation and lash separation are improved, but reliability and consistent movement deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding mechanism between the movable and fixed parts creates a feedback system where the movable part's position adjusts automatically based on resistance encountered during lash separation. This allows easy operation and effective lash separation while the mechanical guidance of the sliding interface maintains reliable and consistent movement throughout the applicator's lifespan
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to a cosmetic product applicator comprising a fixed part (2) having an elongated shape along a longitudinal axis (A) defining a longitudinal direction. The fixed part is hollow, such that it comprises an elongated cavity (6), and it has openings (7) connecting the cavity (6) to an external area (8). The applicator (1) comprises a movable part (9) relative to the fixed part, the movable part (9) having a central core elongated in the longitudinal direction and disposed within the cavity (6) formed by the fixed part (2). The movable part (9) has protrusions (10), each protrusion (10) passing through an opening (7) in the fixed part (2) so that it protrudes from said fixed part (2). The configuration of the protrusions (10) and the openings (7) allows at least longitudinal movement of the movable part (9) relative to the fixed part (2).The applicator can be obtained through additive manufacturing.