Triangular Cosmetic Applicator Handle for Precision Eyeliner
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Solution Overview
Problem
Applying eyeliner to the eyelids is a difficult operation due to the small size of the surface and required precision, making it challenging with traditional brushes, and existing applicators have not adequately simplified the process without compromising makeup quality.
Innovation Solution
A cosmetic applicator with a handle that extends along a rectilinear axis, featuring a substantially triangular cross-section for improved grip and a relatively long handle that rests on the interdigital web between the thumb and index finger, allowing for better control and precision, combined with a short holder for easier operation, and an applicator member with a non-rotationally symmetric cross-section for varying line thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a traditional brush applicator is used, then the applicator can apply cosmetic product, but the small size of the application surface and required precision make the operation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the applicator by providing a handle with a substantially triangular cross-section and specific length ratios (L1/L2 > 2). This parameter modification improves both grip stability and application precision simultaneously, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle is designed with a non-symmetric triangular cross-section rather than a conventional symmetric cylindrical shape. This asymmetric geometry provides distinct facial surfaces that enhance grip stability while maintaining precise control during application, addressing both ease of operation and application precision requirements.
2Ease of operation
If the holder is made longer to improve control, then control may be improved, but the fingers rest further from the applicator member reducing precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the length parameters by setting L1 (handle length) to be greater than twice L2 (holder visible length), creating a specific proportional relationship. This parameter optimization ensures the handle is long enough to rest on the interdigital web for stability while keeping the holder short enough to maintain guiding precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the interdigital web space between thumb and index finger as an additional support dimension. By designing the handle to rest on this anatomical feature, the invention adds a new support plane that improves control without compromising the direct finger-to-applicator connection needed for precision.
3Measurement precision
If the handle is made shorter to improve precision, then guiding precision improves, but the applicator becomes harder to hold stably
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes a minimum threshold for the L1/L2 ratio (>2) to ensure the handle is sufficiently long to engage the interdigital web for stable holding. This parameter threshold ensures holding stability is maintained while allowing the holder to remain short for precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle acts as an intermediary element that translates the user's grip into precise applicator control. By designing the handle with specific triangular geometry and length ratios, it mediates between the user's hand and the applicator member, providing both stability and precision simultaneously.
4Ease of operation
If a conventional cylindrical handle is used, then manufacturing is simple, but the grip stability and control are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric triangular cross-section geometry for the handle, which provides superior grip stability through distinct facial surfaces. While this increases manufacturing complexity compared to cylindrical handles, the geometric form remains relatively simple and can be produced through conventional molding or machining processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the geometric parameters of the handle by specifying a substantially triangular cross-section with particular length ratios. These parameter changes improve grip stability and control while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standard production methods.
Data Source
AI summary
An applicator for applying an eye-liner, extending along a straight longitudinal axis, including: an application member, in particular an applicator tip, a support carrying the application member, extending along an exposed length along the longitudinal axis of the applicator, a handle defining a gripping surface allowing the user to hold the applicator when applying the product, the handle having at least one cross-section, considered perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the applicator, with a substantially triangular general shape, the handle extending along a length along the longitudinal axis of the applicator, the ratio of the length of the handle to the exposed length of the support being greater than 2, preferably between 2 and 7, and more preferably between 3 and 6, the handle having at least two cross-sections, separate from each other, with a substantially triangular general shape, the two cross-sections being angularly offset relative to each other.