Wedge-Shaped Cosmetic Applicator With Figure-Eight Edge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cosmetic applicators lack the ability to provide both precise and simple application of cosmetic materials while effectively structuring flock fibers, which affects the application's efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
Innovation Solution
A wedge-shaped applicator with a flock fiber coating featuring mirror-symmetrical flat surfaces and a figure-eight curve outer edge, allowing for easy pressing and structuring of flock fibers, and an indentation for increased cosmetic material capacity, facilitating adaptable and stable application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the carrier body has a simple shape, then the manufacturing is easier, but the applicator cannot provide both precise application and effective structuring of flock fibers
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier body is divided into distinct functional zones: flat partial surfaces for structuring, curved partial surfaces for cosmetic material application, and a waisted central area. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall manufacturing feasibility through moldable plastic construction.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the carrier body are given different geometric properties: flat areas for pressing and structuring flock fibers, curved areas for adapting to facial contours, and a waisted central area for structural stability. This local differentiation of geometric quality enables the single carrier body to fulfill multiple functional requirements simultaneously.
2Manufacturing precision
If the carrier body has flat surfaces for structuring, then the flock fibers can be effectively structured, but the applicator may lack adaptability to facial contours
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier body combines symmetric flat partial surfaces (for structuring) with asymmetric curved partial surfaces (for facial adaptation). The figure-eight outer edge creates an asymmetric overall shape that naturally conforms to facial contours, while the symmetric flat areas provide stable zones for flock fiber structuring. This combination resolves the contradiction between structuring capability and facial adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the outer edge is straight, then the manufacturing is simpler, but the applicator cannot adapt well to the contour of the face
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier body employs curved outer edges forming a figure-eight shape with arcuate end areas, replacing straight edges. This curvature enables the applicator to adapt to facial contours while remaining manufacturable through standard plastic molding processes, which can easily produce complex curved geometries. The curvature is integrated into the overall wedge-shaped design without requiring additional manufacturing steps.
4Manufacturing precision
If the flat partial surface area is large, then more flock fibers can be structured, but the applicator may become less stable
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier body incorporates a waisted central area that creates a three-dimensional structural feature, adding vertical dimensionality to the design. This waisted portion provides structural stability and rigidity, while the flat partial surfaces extend laterally to provide sufficient area for flock fiber structuring. The dimensional variation resolves the contradiction between surface area for structuring and overall stability.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
The invention relates to an applicator (1) for applying cosmetic material with a wedge-shaped carrier body (2) which is provided with a coating (3) of flock fibers, wherein the carrier body (2) has a front (5), a back (6) and two side surfaces (7); the front (5) and the back (6) each have a flat partial surface (8); the flat partial surfaces (8) are mirror-symmetrical to each other; and the two partial surfaces (8) each have an outer edge in the form of a figure-eight curve.