Wedge-Shaped Wiping Member for Cosmetic Container Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cosmetic products packaged in small, cylindrical containers often have a significant portion stuck to the inner walls, making it difficult to retrieve and utilize the entire content, leading to waste due to the limitations of conventional pumps and applicators.
Innovation Solution
A cosmetic retrieval device with a handle and a flexible wiping member having a wedge-shaped configuration, featuring a neck with varying thickness and a curved design, allowing for effective insertion and retrieval of products from narrow openings and flexible edges for efficient wiping of the container walls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional pump and applicator are used, then the device can dispense cosmetic product, but it cannot retrieve product stuck to the inner walls of the container
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible wiping member made of elastomeric material that can conform to the inner cylindrical surface of the container. This flexible element is able to contact and retrieve cosmetic product adhering to the container walls, which rigid pumps and applicators cannot achieve. The flexibility allows the wiping member to navigate the curved inner surface effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a new dimensional approach by extending a wiping member along the inner circumference of the container, creating a surface-area-based retrieval mechanism rather than a point-based dispensing mechanism. This allows the device to access product across the entire inner surface area of the container, not just at the dispensing opening.
2Volume of moving object
If the container has a small diameter, then the packaging is compact, but the wiping member must be sufficiently flexible to navigate the narrow space
Solution Approach 1:
The wiping member is constructed from elastomeric material with sufficient flexibility to bend and conform to the narrow cylindrical geometry of small-diameter containers. This flexibility allows the device to be inserted into and operate within compact container dimensions while maintaining contact with the inner walls for effective product retrieval.
3Productivity
If the wiping member has a wedge-shaped configuration, then it can effectively wipe the inner walls, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The wiping member features a wedge-shaped configuration where the thickness varies across its width, with thinner edges that can flex and conform to the container curvature. This local variation in geometry optimizes the wiping action at different positions, allowing effective contact with the inner walls while maintaining structural integrity through the thicker central portion.
4Ease of operation
If the neck has varying thickness, then the device can be inserted into narrow openings, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The neck portion of the device features a gradient thickness design where the cross-sectional dimension varies along its length. The distal end has reduced thickness to facilitate insertion into narrow container openings, while the proximal end maintains greater thickness for structural strength. This gradual transition optimizes both insertability and structural integrity.
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 device enables complete access and utilization of cosmetic products by effectively removing residue from the container walls, minimizing waste and providing better value for consumers.
Implementation Method 1
a head with a flexible wiping member extending outwardly therefrom
Data Source
AI summary
A cosmetic retrieval device for retrieving cosmetic product from a container, the device comprising: a handle adapted for being gripped by a user; a head with a flexible wiping member extending outwardly therefrom, the wiping member having a substantially wedge shaped configuration for wiping inner walls of the container for retrieving product during use; a neck extending between the handle and the head, the neck comprising a proximal neck portion located adjacent the head; a distal neck portion located adjacent the handle wherein the proximal neck portion is narrower than the distal neck portion and wherein thickness of the curved neck portion gradually decreases from the distal neck portion to the proximal neck portion.