Snap-In Wiper Applicator Unit for Slender, Compact Designs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing applicator units face design restrictions due to the wiper being visible or protruding beyond the bottle neck, limiting the aesthetic and functional possibilities, especially when a slender or pin-like design is desired.
Innovation Solution
The wiper is fixed within the bottle by a snap-in mechanism, allowing it to be fully enclosed, with additional holding means securing the closure cap, enabling a flush and compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the wiper is fixed on top of the bottle or on the outside of the bottle neck, then the wiper can perform its wiping function, but the closure cap must overlap the free face of the bottle neck which prevents a slender or pin-like design
Solution Approach 1:
The wiper is nested inside the bottle by fixing it to the lowermost holding means within the bottle interior. This nesting approach allows the wiper to remain fully functional while being completely enclosed within the bottle, enabling the closure cap to overlap the bottle neck freely without aesthetic compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The wiper is repositioned from the external dimension (on top of or outside the bottle neck) to the internal dimension (inside the bottle), fixing it to the lowermost holding means within the bottle. This dimensional transition resolves the conflict between achieving a slender design and maintaining wiper functionality.
2Shape
If the closure cap overlaps the neck of the bottle to hide the wiper, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but it becomes difficult to realize a more slender or pin-like design of the applicator unit
Solution Approach 1:
The wiper is nested inside the bottle interior, fixed to the lowermost holding means, eliminating the need for the closure cap to overlap the bottle neck for aesthetic purposes. This allows the closure cap to be designed in a slender or pin-like configuration without compromising the hiding of the wiper.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the wiper is fully enclosed by the bottle, then design freedom is enhanced, but the wiper must be fixed within the bottle requiring additional holding means
Solution Approach 1:
The bottle is divided into multiple holding means positioned at different heights: the lowermost holding means for fixing the wiper, and the uppermost holding means for securing the closure cap. This segmentation allows the wiper to be fully enclosed while providing clear functional separation between wiper fixation and closure cap securing.
Solution Approach 2:
The uppermost holding means serves dual purposes: it secures the closure cap to the bottle and simultaneously provides structural support for the applicator assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, minimizing device complexity while maintaining design freedom.
Data Source
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AI summary
A liquid or pasty agent applicator unit comprising a bottle, a wiper, and an applicator as well as a closure cap for closing the bottle, wherein the applicator can be stuck through the wiper into the bottle to pick up and carry away an amount of said liquid or pasty agent, wherein the wiper, when properly mounted, is fully enclosed by the bottle and wherein the wiper is fixed within the bottle by insertion of its snap-in means into a corresponding snap-in means formed by the bottle, wherein the bottle forms two holding means, one above the other, wherein the lowermost holding means is embodied as the snap-in means that is coupled with the corresponding snap-in means of the wiper.