Wiper-Based Repellent and Sunscreen Applicator for Uniform Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing insect repellent and sunscreen applicators are inconvenient, messy, and often result in uneven application, leading to incomplete protection and environmental harm, while also posing health risks from inhalation of fumes and excessive use.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained applicator with a container, lid, and wiper mechanism that allows for easy, even application of liquids like DEET and sunscreens, using a wringer-saturator to ensure uniform distribution without spraying, and featuring a fiberglass-covered wiper for smooth skin contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If spray applicators are used to apply insect repellent, then application speed is improved, but application uniformity deteriorates and harmful fumes are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the harmful spraying function from the applicator system, eliminating aerosol generation and fume inhalation risks while maintaining efficient liquid application through the wiper mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the spray mechanical system with a wiper-based mechanical system that uses direct contact and friction to distribute liquid uniformly, eliminating the need for aerosolization and reducing application to a controlled mechanical process
2Manufacturing precision
If hand application is used to apply insect repellent, then application control is improved, but application efficiency deteriorates and mess is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the wiper automatically absorbs and distributes liquid repellent through its motion across the skin surface, eliminating the need for manual liquid transfer and reducing mess while maintaining control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wiper as an intermediary between the liquid repellent and the skin surface, facilitating controlled and efficient transfer of the liquid while preventing direct hand contact with the repellent and reducing mess
3Reliability
If excessive repellent is applied to ensure coverage, then protection reliability is improved, but health risks worsen due to overexposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the wiper's absorption capacity and distribution pattern provide automatic regulation of repellent application, preventing overapplication while ensuring sufficient coverage through controlled liquid transfer
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
Provides a portable, mess-free, and safe application of insect repellents and sunscreens, ensuring consistent coverage and reducing the risk of diseases and skin cancers by promoting regular use and avoiding inhalation of vapors.
Implementation Method 1
a wiper, covered with fiberglass or other smooth fabric, and in assembly, contacts the liquid
Implementation Method 2
a wringer-saturator to prevent over saturation and to facilitate wringing out
Data Source
AI summary
A portable applicator for uniformly applying insect repellent or sunscreen upon human skin. A jar-like container normally holds the liquid contents. The container is sealed by a circular lid. The lid supports a downwardly-projecting sponge wiper that is saturated with liquid for subsequent topical application. The underside of the lid has a peripheral ring for frictionally securing the wiper, with ribs defining channels therebetween for directing fluid. A wringer-saturator, in the form of a foraminous partition, is disposed between the applicator contents and the wiper. When the applicator is closed, the wiper is compressed slightly by contact with the wringer-saturator. As the lid is removed from the container, the wiper will expand slightly, absorbing and holding liquid. When the lid is reattached, the wiper is compressed slightly against the wringer-saturator and liquid is partially expelled. The wiper has a fiberglass fabric covering for preventing dripping and easing topical application.