Tilt-Actuated Cosmetic Pump Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cosmetic dispensing systems require axial movement for actuation, which can be cumbersome and inefficient, especially for applying products like liquid concealer or foundation, as they often necessitate the use of a separate applicator or sponge.
Innovation Solution
A tiltable cosmetic applicator with a pump assembly that activates upon tilting, utilizing a flexible tip and actuator mechanism to translate lateral motion into axial movement for efficient product dispensing, incorporating a spring mechanism for controlled delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If axial movement is used for pump actuation, then the pump can be activated, but the operation becomes cumbersome and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the actuation direction from axial (vertical) to lateral (horizontal) movement. The tip is configured to move laterally relative to the actuator, which translates to downward motion of the pump assembly through the linkage mechanism. This dimensional change makes the operation more intuitive and easier to perform while maintaining pump activation functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dynamic linkage mechanism between the tip and pump assembly that converts lateral motion into axial compression. The rod and pump assembly configuration allow the tip to move in one dimension (lateral) while the pump responds in another dimension (axial compression), creating a dynamic transformation that improves ease of operation.
2Productivity
If a separate applicator or sponge is used, then product can be applied, but the process becomes less efficient and requires additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the pump assembly with the tip structure, integrating the dispensing mechanism directly into the applicator. The tip and pump assembly are configured as a unified component where the tip's lateral movement directly actuates the pump, eliminating the need for separate applicators or sponges and reducing the overall number of components while maintaining application efficiency.
3Ease of operation
If the tip is made flexible, then it can be tilted easily, but structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different mechanical properties to different parts of the tip. The tip is configured to be flexible in specific regions to enable easy tilting and lateral movement, while maintaining sufficient structural strength in other areas to withstand usage conditions. This localized differentiation of mechanical properties allows the tip to be both easily tiltable and structurally sound.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables easy, controlled dispensing of cosmetic products without the need for axial movement or separate applicators, providing a convenient and efficient method for applying liquids like concealer or foundation directly onto the skin.
Implementation Method 1
actuation of the pump assembly includes moving the pump assembly in a downward motion, compressing a spring disposed around the pump assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A device for dispensing a cosmetic product may include a container configured to hold a volume of cosmetic product, the container having a closed lower end and an open upper end, a pump assembly disposed at least partially within the open upper end of the container, and a tip connected to the pump assembly, the tip having an outlet for dispensing the cosmetic product. The pump assembly and tip may be configured such that manually tilting the tip actuates the pump assembly to deliver a portion of the volume of cosmetic product to the outlet.