Two-Phase Cleaning Composition for Stable Single-Dose Appearance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Consumers desire a cleaning agent that combines the convenience of single-dose dispensing with a visually appealing appearance, while maintaining effective cleaning performance and avoiding issues like appearance changes that suggest reduced efficacy.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning agent comprising at least two distinct phases, where the first phase is solid and the second phase includes polyvinyl alcohol and a polyhydric alcohol, such as 1,3-propanediol, which is dimensionally stable, flexible, and transparent, allowing for rapid solidification and maintaining a glossy appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a liquid cleaning agent formulation is used, then rapid solubility and quick availability of active ingredients are achieved, but the product requires preservatives and has shorter shelf life
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning agent is divided into two distinct phases: a solid phase containing preservatives and a flexible phase containing active ingredients. This segmentation allows each phase to be optimized independently - the solid phase provides long-term stability and preservation, while the flexible phase delivers rapid solubility and active ingredient availability when activated.
2Ease of operation
If single-serve sachets filled with liquid detergent are used, then convenient dosing and attractive appearance are achieved, but the appearance changes during storage suggesting reduced performance
Solution Approach 1:
The sachet contains two phases with different local qualities: the solid phase maintains dimensional stability and visual appearance during storage, while the flexible phase remains dormant until activation. This local differentiation ensures the product looks stable and appealing throughout storage while still providing convenient single-serve dosing.
3Reliability
If a solid cleaning agent formulation is used, then preservatives are not required and shelf life is extended, but solubility speed and availability of active ingredients are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention utilizes phase transition from solid to flexible state upon activation. The solid phase provides long-term stability and extended shelf life during storage, while upon contact with water or during use, the flexible phase activates and rapidly dissolves, delivering quick availability of active ingredients. This phase transition resolves the contradiction between shelf life and solubility speed.
4Shape
If the second phase is made flexible for shaping, then desired shape and visual appearance are achieved, but dimensional stability during storage is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The product is segmented into two phases with complementary properties: the solid phase provides dimensional stability during storage, while the flexible phase enables shaping and visual appeal. The solid phase acts as a structural backbone that maintains the sachet's shape and appearance stability, while the flexible phase can be molded into attractive forms without compromising overall stability.
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
The solution provides a cleaning agent with a visually appealing and stable form that maintains effective cleaning performance, facilitating easy handling and storage, while ensuring rapid ingredient release and preventing phase interaction or deformation.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one second phase comprises at least 5 to 40 wt.% polyvinyl alcohol as a polymer and at least 1,3-propanediol as a polyhydric alcohol
Data Source
Figure 1~4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a washing or cleaning agent, in particular a cleaning agent for hard surfaces, comprising two distinct phases.