Contour hair trimmer with interchangeable working head

Abstract

A hair trimmer comprises: a trimmer housing having a drive end; a drive shaft protruding from the drive end; the supporting bracket is associated with the driving end; a cutting work head connectable to the drive shaft and supported on the trimmer by a support bracket, the cutting work head being removably secured to the support bracket, the support bracket having a first end configured for engagement with the cutting work head and a second end configured for engagement with a clipper housing, the support bracket is releasably fixed on the clipper shell through a threaded finger screw; and a compressible member or bushing interposed between the gripping portion of the finger screw and the contact surface of the work head holder to provide enhanced tightness haptic feedback to the user.

Description

Related applications

[0001] This application is a PCT international application claiming priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 241895, filed April 27, 2021, pursuant to section 120 of Title 35 of the United States Code, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0002] The present invention generally relates to electric hair trimmers, and more specifically, to such devices for achieving precise and detailed trimming patterns on a customer's scalp and / or face, or for trimming nose and ear hair.

[0003] Modern hair trimming is increasingly popular and often features design elements that cut directly into the customer's hair down to the skin. These design elements take many forms, including but not limited to sharp edges for facial hair, geometric designs, free-form patterns, animal imagery, and text. Furthermore, modern trimming includes treatments for areas such as nose and ear hair. For home hair trimmers using conventional electric clippers, precise trimming is often challenging, as it is frequently difficult to observe the cutting blades and areas because traditional clippers have a housing that extends to the cutting teeth of the blade assembly. Consequently, the housing often obstructs the view of the cutting area, making precise operation difficult.

[0004] Hair clipper manufacturers have addressed this need by providing dedicated contour trimmers (in this application, hair clippers and hair trimmers are collectively referred to as hair trimmers) that feature an exposed blade assembly positioned axially from the end of the housing to enhance the hairstylist's or stylist's visibility of the cutting area. Designers of such contour trimmers are forced to balance often conflicting requirements: enhanced visibility of the cutting area and the need for a stable mechanical and electrical connection of the blade assembly to the clipper drive system.

[0005] Beyond creating precise, modern hairstyles with this design shape, another challenge in hair styling is that clients often require other parts of their hair to be trimmed in a more conventional way. Therefore, stylists who create a complete styling experience for clients must be equipped with a variety of power-driven styling tools for different tasks. As modern trends shift from wired tools to rechargeable wireless models, stylists often face the challenge of managing cramped workspaces filled with various tools and their corresponding charging docks.

[0006] There is a resistance to using various hair trimmers for customers who prefer to create and / or maintain their styled hair at home. Furthermore, there is an increasing demand for devices that can be rinsed for cleaning or used in the shower or bathtub. Designers of hair trimmers face the challenge of addressing this new need.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for an improved contour trimmer that addresses the design considerations of the aforementioned hair trimmers. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The aforementioned needs are met or exceeded by the contour hair trimmer of this application, which features interchangeable working heads. The trimmer of this application has an exposed, axially extending drive shaft protruding from the trimmer housing, and also provides a working head attachment system that allows the user to interchangeably connect one of a plurality of working heads to the drive shaft without the use of tools. In this application, "without the use of tools" means that the structure for connecting the cutting working head to the trimmer housing is configured such that it is not designed to accept tools for manipulation, i.e., it is configured for manual operation. Preferably, the working heads of nose hair trimmers, dry razors, and hair trimmers each have exposed, highly visible blade assemblies, which enhances the user's ability to observe the area being cut without being obstructed by the surrounding housing.

[0009] In one embodiment, once the user wishes to change the working head, loosening the threaded thumb screw allows easy release of the support bracket from the trimmer housing, disconnecting the installed working head and allowing replacement with another working head that can engage with the drive shaft and be releasably secured to the trimmer housing using the thumb screw. In one embodiment, a compressible component or bushing is positioned between the gripping portion of the thumb screw and the contact surface of the working head bracket to provide the user with enhanced tactile feedback on tightness.

[0010] In another embodiment, instead of the aforementioned finger screw, the support bracket is provided as two components: one component is a base portion fixed to the working head, and the other component is a spring clip portion fixed to the trimmer housing and having a complementary engagement structure that engages with the base portion. Preferably, the complementary structures on the two components enhance the connection between the working head and the housing. In one embodiment, the spring clip portion includes two spring tabs that apply biasing force to the base portion, and at least one lug that engages with an opening in the base portion. Thus, the working head is held in the trimmer by engagement with the drive shaft and by a plurality of attachment points associated with the support bracket.

[0011] Another feature of the trimmer of this application is that the internal drive system, motor, and battery are waterproof, allowing the trimmer to be used in a shower or bathtub. This waterproofing is achieved by inserting the internal trimmer base into a tubular sleeve of a plastic film. In one embodiment, the plastic film is a shrink-wrapping film. Radially extending disc-shaped flanges are provided at each end of the base. When heat is applied, the shrink-wrapping film collapses around the trimmer components, sealing them against moisture, and the flanges serve as anchor points for the ends of the tubular sleeve. A charging pin protrudes from one of the flanges. At the opposite end of the base, a motor shaft seal prevents water from entering the motor. Preferably, before heat is applied to the shrink-wrapping film, a resilient tubular section is positioned around the trimmer's main on / off switch. As the film collapses around the base, the tubular section surrounds and protects the switch, forming a flat surface around the switch for shrinking the film. In another embodiment, the film is fixed to the base at the enlarged flange by welding or the like.

[0012] More specifically, a hair trimmer is provided, comprising: a trimmer housing having a drive end; a drive shaft projecting from the drive end; a support bracket associated with the drive end; a cutting head capable of being connected to the drive shaft and supported on the trimmer by the support bracket, the cutting head being removably fixed to the support bracket, the support bracket having a first end configured to engage with the cutting head and a second end configured to engage with the clipper housing, the support bracket being releasably fixed to the clipper housing by a threaded thumbscrew; and a compressible member or bushing between the gripping portion of the thumbscrew and the contact surface of the head bracket to provide the user with enhanced tactile feedback on tightness.

[0013] In another embodiment, a hair trimmer is provided, comprising: a trimmer housing having a drive end; a drive shaft projecting from the drive end; a base having one end associated with the drive shaft and an opposite end having at least one projecting charging pin; and radially enlarged flanges disposed at various points in the ends. A tubular sleeve of a heat-deformable plastic film is dimensionally configured to slidably surround the base and extend at least axially to the flange, such that upon application of heat, the sleeve deforms around the base and forms a waterproof seal. In one embodiment, at least one of the flanges at the drive shaft end and at the opposite end is provided with a supplementary seal, the flange at the drive shaft end being associated with a motor.

[0014] In another embodiment, a knurled knob is attached to a finger screw having a base with a reduced diameter, and a compressible member is configured to surround the base. In one embodiment, the member has a thickness at least equal to the thickness of the base portion. In another embodiment, the inner surface of the member has at least one radially projecting rib.

[0015] In another embodiment, the support bracket is configured to receive the cutting head using a spring clip portion on the support bracket, the spring clip portion being releasably engaged with a base portion of the support bracket. In one embodiment, the cutting head is one of a nose hair trimmer, a dry shaver, and a hair trimmer head, and when configured as a nose hair trimmer, the support bracket has a first end configured and arranged to at least partially surround the head, and a second end opposite the first end, the second end being configured to be releasably attached to a trimmer housing drive end using a screwdriver; when configured as a dry shaver, the support bracket has a first end fastened to the head, and the cutting head has a second end capable of being attached to the trimmer housing drive end using a screwdriver.

[0016] In one embodiment, the trimmer housing includes an internal waterproof seal formed by a tubular sleeve of plastic film. Preferably, the housing has an elongated base with radially enlarged flanges at each of its two opposite ends, the flanges forming sealing attachment points for the tubular sleeve, which forms the waterproof seal by tightly enclosing the components of the base between the flanges.

[0017] In one embodiment, the switch is fixed to the housing, and an annular protective member surrounds the switch, forming a guide for the switch and providing a flat outer profile for the switch when the sleeve is heated and partially and sealingly engaged with the trimmer. Preferably, the sleeve is attached to the base by either heat shrinking to a flange or welding to a flange. In one embodiment, a charging pin extends from one of the flanges, the charging pin having either a straight configuration or an angled configuration. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a top perspective view of the hair trimmer of this application, equipped with a nose hair trimmer working head;

[0019] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A partial exploded 3D view of a hair trimmer;

[0020] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A partial vertical cross-sectional view of a hair trimmer;

[0021] Figure 4 This is a side elevation view of the nose hair trimmer's working head and support bracket;

[0022] Figure 5 This is a partial top perspective view of the hair trimmer of this application, equipped with a dry shaver head or foil that can be used with water.

[0023] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 An exploded 3D view of a hair trimmer;

[0024] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 Vertical cross-sectional view of a hair trimmer;

[0025] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 Side elevation view of a hair trimmer;

[0026] Figure 9 This is a partial top perspective view of the hair trimmer of this application, equipped with a hair trimmer working head;

[0027] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 An exploded 3D view of a hair trimmer;

[0028] Figure 11 yes Figure 9 Vertical cross-sectional view of a hair trimmer;

[0029] Figure 12 yes Figure 9 Side elevation view of a hair trimmer;

[0030] Figure 13 This is a partial top perspective view of the hair trimmer of this application, equipped with a nose hair trimmer working head and a spring clip support bracket.

[0031] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 A partial exploded 3D view of a hair trimmer;

[0032] Figure 15 yes Figure 13 Vertical cross-sectional view of a hair trimmer;

[0033] Figure 16 yes Figure 13 Side elevation view of a hair trimmer;

[0034] Figure 17 This is a partial top perspective view of the hair trimmer of this application, which has a dry shaver head and a spring clip support.

[0035] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 A partial exploded view of a hair trimmer;

[0036] Figure 19 yes Figure 17 Vertical cross-sectional view of a hair trimmer;

[0037] Figure 20 yes Figure 17 Side elevation view of a hair trimmer;

[0038] Figure 21 This is a partial top perspective view of the hair trimmer of this application, which is mounted using a spring clip support bracket;

[0039] Figure 22 yes Figure 21 A partial exploded view of a hair trimmer;

[0040] Figure 23 yes Figure 21 Vertical cross-sectional view of a hair trimmer;

[0041] Figure 24 yes Figure 21 Side elevation view of a hair trimmer;

[0042] Figures 25 to 27 It is Figure 21 A sequential view of the working head being removed from the hair trimmer of this application;

[0043] Figure 28 This is a top perspective view of the base of the hair trimmer of this application, which is surrounded by a tubular sleeve of thermodeformable plastic.

[0044] Figure 29 It is after applying heat Figure 28 Top-view perspective of the base;

[0045] Figure 30 yes Figure 29 Top-view perspective of the base;

[0046] Figure 31 yes Figure 29 A top view of the base after rotation;

[0047] Figure 32 yes Figure 29 A partial end view of the base;

[0048] Figure 33 yes Figure 29 A partial side elevation view of an embodiment of the base;

[0049] Figure 34 Before applying the tubular sleeve Figure 28 Side elevation view of the base;

[0050] Figure 35 This is an exploded perspective view of the hair trimmer and base of this application;

[0051] Figure 36 This is a top view of an alternative embodiment of a plastic sleeve used to waterproof the base of the trimmer of this application;

[0052] Figure 37 yes Figure 1 Exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a hair trimmer;

[0053] Figure 38 yes Figure 37 A three-dimensional view of the bushing visible in the hair trimmer. Detailed Implementation

[0054] Now refer to Figures 1 to 4 The contour hair trimmer is generally designated 10 and includes a trimmer housing 12 having a drive end 14. The hair trimmer 10 of this application is characterized in that it is configured for operatively engaging with a plurality of cutting heads. A first such cutting head is a nose hair trimmer, generally designated 16.

[0055] The nose hair trimmer head 16 engages with a drive shaft 18, which protrudes from the drive end 14 and is connected to an offset or eccentric cam 20 having a polygonal, preferably hexagonal, drive structure 22. In the nose hair trimmer head 16, the cam follower 24 has a base 26 with a recess 28 that engages with the drive structure 22 to rotate together with the drive shaft 18, which is powered by a motor 30. Figure 28 Driven as known in the art, a tubular moving blade 32 with multiple teeth 34 is driven by a cam follower 24. Figure 3 The moving blade 32 is driven to engage and rotates together with the cam follower 24. The knurled collar 36 fixes the tubular outer blade or stationary blade 38 with a plurality of stationary blade teeth 40 relative to the cam follower 24, such that the moving blade 32 rotates inside the stationary blade 38 and relative to the stationary blade 38, as is known in the art.

[0056] Hair extending beyond the stationary blade teeth 40 inside is cut by the action of the rotating moving blade teeth 34. The nose hair trimmer working head 16 is relatively exposed by extending axially from the drive end 14 of the housing 12, thereby providing the user with enhanced (improved) visibility of the target cutting area.

[0057] To provide structural support for the nose hair trimmer head 16 and to provide a releasable connection to the trimmer housing 12, a support bracket 42 is associated with the drive end 14 of the housing. The support bracket 42 is also connected to the cutting head 16. More specifically, the support bracket 42 has a first end 44 configured to engage with the nose hair trimmer head 16, preferably having a ring 46 that at least partially surrounds the stationary blade 38. The ring 46 is held in place against the stationary blade 38 by a knurled collar 36. In contrast to the first end 44, a second end 48 is configured to engage with the pusher housing 12. In a preferred embodiment, the second support bracket end 48 has a defined notch 52 (… Figure 2The U-shaped clip 50 has a groove 52 that slidably engages with a threaded nut insert 53 and a thumbscrew 54, the thumbscrew 54 having a knob 56 with knurling or otherwise enhanced grip. Also preferably, the support bracket 42 has a middle portion 58 that forms an angle to enhance strength.

[0058] To remove the nose hair trimmer working head 16 from the trimmer housing 12, the user manually loosens the thumb screw 54 and pulls the working head axially out of its engagement with both the thumb screw and the eccentric cam 20. Setting the nose hair trimmer working head 16 is achieved by reversing this process. Therefore, the nose hair trimmer working head 16 can be removed from its operational engagement with the trimmer housing 12 without the use of tools.

[0059] Now refer to Figures 5 to 8 Another cutting head that can be easily detached from the trimmer housing 12 is generally referred to as a dry razor or razor head 60. Although referred to herein as a "dry" razor, the cutting head 60 of this application is capable of being used with water. The razor head 60 includes a head housing 62, which is configured to have a relatively thin outer profile to enhance the user's visibility of the cutting area. As a result, the sidewalls 63 are relatively short in the vertical direction and shorter than the relatively wide flared end described below as 88. A pivoting rocker arm 64 with a cam follower socket 66 is included in the head housing 62, the cam follower socket 66 engaging with an eccentric cam 20 through an opening 68 in the head housing. The opening 68 defines an operating channel for the pivoting action of the rocker arm 64. The free end 72 of the rocker arm 64 pivots reciprocally about a pivot point 70 opposite to the cam follower socket 66 relative to the working head housing 62, engaging with the movable razor blades 74 to cause them to reciprocate linearly relative to the fixed, perforated, and stationary blade or foil 76. A biasing element 77, such as a spring, is positioned between the rear end 73 of the rocker arm 64 opposite to the free end 72 and the adjacent portion of the opening 68. Figure 7 The moving blade 74 is pushed against the stationary blade 76 by a biasing action on the rocker arm. As is known in the art, the linear reciprocating motion of the moving razor blade 74 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the trimmer housing 12. Hairs protruding into the perforated stationary blade 76 are cut by the reciprocating moving razor blade 74.

[0060] Similar to the nose hair trimmer head 16, the dry razor cutting head 60 is releasably and operatively engaged with the trimmer housing 12 via a support bracket 78, which, like the support bracket 42, has a U-shaped clip 50 with a groove 52 at its second end 48. The U-shaped clip 50 is releasably engaged with a screwdriver screw 54 in the same manner described above with respect to the nose hair trimmer head 16. In addition to the tightening force of the screwdriver screw 54, the drive end 14 of the trimmer housing also has a polygonal U-shaped clip recess 80 that engages the second end 48 and prevents the brackets 42 and 78 from twisting relative to the housing.

[0061] In contrast to the second end 48, the first end 82 of the support bracket 78 is securely fastened to the working head housing 62 using at least one, and preferably a pair, fasteners 84. The upper edge 86 of the support bracket 78 is angled to engage with the flared blade end 88 of the working head housing 62, and the middle portion 58 has a similar angle, as is the case with the nose hair trimmer working head 16. The upper edge 86 is also removable from the working head 60, allowing any trapped hair to be removed from the inside of the working head. While the upper edge 86 of this application is integral with the first end 82, it is also conceivable that the upper edge could optionally be configured as a separate door structure, removable without removing the fasteners 84.

[0062] Now refer to Figures 9 to 12 The third type of clipper head is generally designated as a hair trimmer head 90. When mounted on the drive end 14 of the trimmer housing 12 and engaged with the drive shaft 18, the hair trimmer head 90 provides an exposed blade assembly 92, which includes a stationary blade 94 with stationary blade teeth 96 and a laterally reciprocating blade 98 with moving blade teeth 100. This allows the user or stylist to more clearly observe the area being cut, enabling the desired precise and detailed cuts according to current fashion trends.

[0063] As with the nose hair trimmer head 16 and the dry shaver head 60, the hair trimmer head 90 is connected to the trimmer housing 12 via a support bracket 102. The second end 48 of the support bracket has a U-shaped clip 50 defining a groove 52 for releasable engagement with the finger screw 54 as described above. The second end 48 is received or engaged within a U-shaped clip recess 80 in the trimmer housing 12. Furthermore, the support bracket 102 has an angled intermediate portion 58 in a manner similar to the previously described support brackets 42, 78.

[0064] Now refer to Figure 10In contrast to the second end 48, the support bracket 102 has a first end 104 configured for attachment to the hair trimmer working head 90. The connector 106 has an opening 108 for receiving a fastener 110, preferably a screw or the like, which holds the stationary blade 94 and the blade guide 112 together as a unit. Furthermore, the fastener 110 holds the stationary blade 94, the blade guide 112, and the connector 106 at the first end 104 by engagement in a threaded opening 114. A dangling lug 116 on the connector also engages with a groove 118 in the first end 104 of the support bracket 102 for stabilizing the working head 90 during operation.

[0065] As is known in the art related to hair trimmers, a hair trimmer head 90 includes a cam follower 120 having a socket 122 configured and arranged for engagement with an eccentric cam 20. A fork 124 on the cam follower 120 engages with an opening 126 in a blade guide 112, and a portion 128 on the blade guide engages with a central opening 130 in a moving blade 98 to maintain a lateral reciprocating motion trajectory of the moving blade relative to a stationary blade 94. A biasing element 132, such as a spring, pushes the cam follower 120 and the moving blade 98 against the stationary blade 94. When performing detailed trimming with the hair trimmer head 90, it is preferable that the stationary blade teeth 96 and the moving blade teeth 100 are positioned such that the corresponding tips of the teeth of each blade are closely aligned with each other.

[0066] As with the nose trimmer head 16 and the dry shaver head 60, when the user wishes to replace the hair trimmer head 90 with another, the finger screw 54 is loosened by manipulating the knob 56. The head 90 is then disengaged from the trimmer housing 12, drive shaft 18, and eccentric cam 20 by axial displacement.

[0067] Now refer to Figures 13 to 24 Alternative (alternative) embodiments for the aforementioned support brackets 42, 78, and 102 are depicted. As an alternative to using the thumbscrew 54 and associated components, the alternative support bracket is generally designated 140 and comprises two parts: a base portion 142, which is fixed to the cutting end 14 of the trimmer housing; and a releasable spring clip portion 144, which includes the first end of the support bracket and can be disengaged from the base portion by the user's manipulation in a torsional motion without the use of tools. The corresponding cutting heads 16, 60, and 90 are identically constructed, and those head components using support bracket 140 are designated with reference numerals corresponding to those previously discussed.

[0068] Now refer to Figures 13 to 16 More specifically, the previous statements about Figures 1 to 4 The described nose hair trimmer head 16 is shown with an alternative support bracket 140. A second end 146 is included on the base portion 142 of the bracket 140, and the second end 146 is secured within a U-shaped clamping recess 80 of the trimmer housing 12 using fasteners 148 such as screws. An angled intermediate portion 58 is also included on the base portion 142 of the support bracket.

[0069] Now refer to Figure 14 The upper end 150 of the base portion 142 is generally "Y" shaped, having a pair of laterally spaced arms 152 that define a recess 154. Preferably, a polygonal positioning opening 156 is located in the portion of the upper end 150 that forms the "Y" shaped vertical base, between the recess 154 and the angled intermediate portion 58.

[0070] Turning now to the spring clip portion 144, the spring connector 158 includes a lug 160 configured to engage with a positioning opening 156, a cantilever portion 162 configured to engage with a recess 154, and at least one, preferably a pair, mounting openings 164. Fasteners 166, preferably screws, etc., secure the workpiece holder 168 to the spring 170 and to the mounting openings 164 of the spring clip portion 144. The spring 170 includes at least one, preferably a pair, cantilevered spring tabs 172, which engage with and are pushed against the arm 152. Similar to the ring 46, the workpiece ring 174 on the workpiece holder 168 at least partially surrounds the stationary blade 38 of the nose hair trimmer working head 16.

[0071] Therefore, the nose hair trimmer working head 16, workpiece holder 168, spring 170, and spring connector 158 are releasably engaged as a unit on the base portion 142 of the support bracket 140. A secure operational connection is achieved through the engagement of the spring tab 172 on the arm 152, the overhanging structure 162 in the recess 154, and the lug 160 in the positioning opening 156. Furthermore, as previously described, the working head 16 is operatively engaged on the eccentric cam 20 at the structure 22. The user can easily attach the nose hair trimmer working head 16, which includes the aforementioned support bracket 140 component, to the trimmer housing 12 using a torsional motion without the use of tools.

[0072] Now refer to Figures 17 to 20 Previously regarding Figures 5 to 8 The described dry shaver head 60 is shown equipped with an alternative support bracket 140. Components identical to those described above are labeled with the same reference numerals. As described above, the second end 146 of the support bracket 140 is secured within a U-shaped clamping recess 80.

[0073] The first end or cap 176 closes the workpiece housing 62 and is held in place by a fastener 84 that extends through the workpiece housing and secures the spring 170 to the spring connector 158. Thus, as previously described, the dry shaver head 60, the first end 176, the spring 170, and the spring connector 158 are operatively engaged on the base portion 142 and can be easily detached from the base portion 142 by the user using a twisting motion without the use of tools.

[0074] Now refer to Figures 21 to 24 Previously regarding Figures 9 to 12 The described hair trimmer head 90 is shown with an alternative support bracket 140. Fasteners 110 secure the stationary blade 94, blade guide 112, spring 170, and spring connector 158 to each other as a unit. Thus, as previously described, the hair trimmer head 90, including the blade assembly 92 and spring clip portion 144, is operatively engaged on the base portion 142 and can be easily detached from the base portion 142 by the user using a twisting motion without the use of tools.

[0075] Now refer to Figures 25 to 27 This illustrates the sequential operation by which a user manipulates the hair trimmer's working head 90 to disengage from the alternative spring-loaded support bracket 140. Figure 25 In the diagram, the working head 90 is shown in the operating position. Figure 26 In this process, the user has applied downward pressure to the working head 90 at the end opposite to the blades 94 and 98. This releases the spring force applied by the spring tab 172, causing the positioning lug 160 to disengage from the positioning opening 156, the overhanging structure 162 to disengage from the recess 154, and the cam follower 120 to disengage from the eccentric cam 20. Figure 27 In this process, given that the working head 90 is disengaged from the trimmer housing 12, the working head is twisted out of its position from the trimmer for storage.

[0076] Regardless of which of the support brackets 42, 78, 102, or 140 is used, it is envisioned that the single trimmer housing 12 is configured as an assembly having multiple cutting heads, including a nose hair trimmer head 16, a dry shaving head 60, and a hair trimmer head 90. Other trimmer heads are envisioned, as are known in the art. Thus, the user is provided with a choice of heads 16, 60, and 90, which can be easily replaced while using only the single trimmer housing 12.

[0077] Now refer to Figures 28 to 35Another feature of the hair trimmer 10 of this application is that it is waterproof for use in the shower or bath, or rinseable for cleaning. In a preferred embodiment, this waterproofing is achieved by enclosing the internal working parts of the trimmer within a tubular sleeve of a shrink-wrapped film. Heat is applied to the film, which then shrinks and forms around the trimmer components, thereby sealing them against water damage.

[0078] More specifically, a base, generally designated 180, is constructed and arranged to rest within the trimmer housing 12 and includes a motor end 182 corresponding to the drive end 14 and a charging end 184 thereon. The base 180 is preferably made of injection-molded plastic or a similar material known in the art and includes a plurality of integrally formed mounting portions 186 for holding at least one of the motor 30, the rechargeable battery 190, and the circuit board 192 having an on / off switch 194 in place. Radially enlarging disc-shaped flanges 196 are fixed to each of the ends 182, 184. A drive shaft 18 protrudes beyond the flange 196 at the motor end 182. Figure 31 At least one battery charging pin 198 extends beyond the flange at the battery end 184. In one embodiment, the charging pin 198 is insert-molded together with the flange 196 to provide a rear moisture seal. An optional protective ring 200 surrounds the drive shaft 18, and a similar optional protective shield 202 surrounds the charging pin 198. Figure 31 ).

[0079] Now refer to Figure 28 and Figure 29 To achieve the desired waterproofing of the trimmer base 180 and related components, a tubular sleeve of shrink wrap film 204 is inserted to surround the base. The sleeve 204 is dimensionally configured to have a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the flange 196. Furthermore, the sleeve 204 has a length extending axially beyond and overlapping the two flanges 196. After proper placement, heat is applied to the sleeve 204, as is known in the art. Typically, a temperature in the range of 250-350°F is applied to cause the shrink wrap film, preferably made of a plastic polymer, to shrink. The heat is typically applied using a heat gun or a heat tunnel and conveyor. When the sleeve 204 shrinks, it attaches to and seals around the flange 196 and other components mounted on the base 180. Figure 29 A base 180 is depicted, wherein a retracted sleeve 204 encapsulates the base and components, thereby forming an internal waterproof enclosure.

[0080] To protect the on / off switch 194 during the shrink wrapping process, it is preferable to place an annular protective member 206, preferably formed of a flexible tubular section, around the switch before the sleeve 204 is placed around the base. Preferably, the protective member 206 is at least as high as the switch. Then, when heat is applied, the sleeve 204 shrinks around the tubular member 206 to form a flat or uniform outer contour across the switch 194.

[0081] Now refer to Figure 31 , Figure 34 and Figure 35 The motor 30 is secured to the base 180 by a designated motor clamp 208, which is preferably integrally formed with the base. The clamp 208 is constructed and arranged to apply a biasing force that pushes the motor 30 toward the associated flange 196. Furthermore, the motor 30 is covered at the drive shaft end by a resilient sheath 210 for further protection. Water is prevented from entering the motor 30 at the drive shaft 18 by the use of a resilient rubber shaft seal 212. Referring now... Figure 32 and Figure 33 The charging pin 198 has a straight construction. Figure 32 ) and angular structure ( Figure 33 ).

[0082] Now refer to Figure 36 Alternative embodiments of the shrink wrap base 180 described above are generally designated as 220. Components of embodiment 220, corresponding to embodiment 180, are designated with the same reference numerals. In addition to flange 196, an additional flange 222 is positioned behind the motor 30. A sleeve 204, optionally made of a heavier-gauge plastic than conventional shrink wrap film, is ultrasonically welded to the outer edge 224 of flange 196 and optionally to flange 222 surrounding the periphery to form a waterproof seal. Thus, sleeve 204 loosely engages with base 220 at points excluding flanges 196 and 222. An external rubber or polyethylene seal 226 is secured to the outside of motor flange 196 at motor end 182, and a relatively thick seal 228 of similar material is secured at charging end 184 for sealing charging pin 198.

[0083] Now refer to Figure 37 and Figure 38 An alternative embodiment of the hair trimmer 10, particularly for trimming hair... Figures 1 to 11Various nose hair trimmers, razors, and hair trimmer heads 16, 60, and 90 are fixed to the trimmer housing 12 and are generally designated as 230. Components of the trimmer 230 shared with the previous embodiments are designated with the same reference numerals. During the implementation of the hair trimmer 10, it was observed that when the various heads 16, 60, and 90 are set, it is not always obvious when the finger screw 54 is fully tightened against the support end 48 when the user uses the knurled knob 56 to turn it.

[0084] Therefore, an improved device is deemed necessary for securing the working heads 16, 60, 90 to the trimmer housing 12. In a preferred embodiment, this device includes a non-metallic, preferably compressible, component or collar 232, sized to tightly enclose the reduced-diameter base 234 of the knurled knob 56. Furthermore, preferably, the outer surface 236 of the bushing 232 is the same size as the knurled surface 238 of the knurled knob 56. The axial thickness “T” of the bushing 232 is at least as thick as the base 234.

[0085] When the user sets the working head 16, 60, or 90 and attaches the finger screw 54 to the bushing 232, the bushing is configured such that it is compressed when the finger screw 54 is tightened into the insert 53 and abuts against the working head support end 48 in the trimmer housing 12. This compression of the bushing 232 allows the user to more clearly perceive that the finger screw 54 is fully tightened against the support end 48.

[0086] A suitable compressible material for bushing 232 is plastic, and preferably Delrin® acetal resin or equivalent. Other materials are envisioned to have suitable dimensional stability, strength, and compressibility. In the trimmer 230 of this application, the relatively low coefficient of friction of the Delrin® acetal resin component 232 generates a greater clamping force (axial load) by applying a greater torque to secure the blade holder downward, making it easier to tighten the finger screw 54.

[0087] The preferred thickness "T" is 0.020 inches greater than the thickness of the base 234 of the knob 56. The dimensions of the bushing 232 are envisioned to be varied to suit the application. By making the bushing 232 thicker than the base, the adhesion of the knob 56 due to compressive forces is enhanced.

[0088] To enhance the friction that holds the bushing 232 on the base 234 of the knob 56, the inner surface 240 of the bushing may optionally be provided with at least one radially projecting rib 242. The number and size of the ribs 242 are envisioned to vary to suit the application.

[0089] While specific embodiments of the contour hair trimmer of this application with interchangeable working heads have been described herein, those skilled in the art will understand that changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the broader aspects of the invention and as set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A hair trimmer, comprising: A trimmer housing having a drive end; A drive shaft that protrudes from the drive end; A support bracket, which is associated with the drive end; A cutting head, which can be connected to the drive shaft and supported on the trimmer by the support bracket; The cutting head is removably fixed to the support bracket; The support bracket has a first end configured to engage the cutting head and a second end configured to engage the pusher housing, and the support bracket is releasably secured to the pusher housing by a threaded thumbscrew; and A compressible component or bushing, located between the gripping portion of the finger screw and the contact surface of the working head support, provides the user with enhanced tactile feedback on tightness.

2. The hair trimmer according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes a knurled knob attached to the finger screw, the knurled knob having a base with a reduced diameter, and the compressible member being configured to surround the base.

3. The hair trimmer according to claim 2, wherein, The component has a thickness at least as thick as the base portion.

4. The hair trimmer according to claim 1, wherein, The inner surface of the component is provided with at least one radially protruding rib.

5. The hair trimmer according to claim 1, wherein, The support bracket is configured to accommodate the cutting head using a spring clip portion on the support bracket, the spring clip portion being releasably engaged with the base portion of the support bracket.

6. The hair trimmer according to claim 1, wherein, The cutting head is one of a nose hair trimmer, a dry shaver, and a hair trimmer head. When the cutting head is configured as a nose hair trimmer, the support bracket has a first end configured and arranged to at least partially surround the head, and a second end opposite the first end, the second end being configured to be releasably attached to the trimmer housing drive end using a thumbscrew. When the cutting head is configured as a dry shaver, the support bracket has a first end secured to the head, and the cutting head has a second end capable of being attached to the trimmer housing drive end using a thumbscrew.

7. The hair trimmer according to claim 1, wherein, The trimmer housing includes an internal waterproof seal formed by a tubular sleeve of plastic film.

8. The hair trimmer according to claim 7, wherein, The housing has an elongated base with radially enlarged flanges at each of its two opposite ends, the flanges forming sealing attachment points for the tubular sleeve, which forms a waterproof seal by tightly enclosing the components of the base between the flanges.

9. The hair trimmer according to claim 7, wherein, It also includes a switch and an annular protector, the switch being fixed to the housing and the annular protector surrounding the switch, the annular protector forming a guide for the switch and providing a flat profile for the switch when the sleeve is heated and sealingly engages multiple parts of the trimmer.

10. The hair trimmer according to claim 7, wherein, The sleeve is attached to the base by heat shrinking and welding to one of the flanges.

11. The hair trimmer according to claim 7, wherein, It also includes a charging pin extending from one of the flanges, the charging pin having one of a straight configuration and an angled configuration.

12. A hair trimmer, comprising: A trimmer housing having a drive end; A drive shaft that protrudes from the drive end; A base having one end associated with the drive shaft and an opposite end having at least one protruding charging pin; A radially enlarged flange at each of the plurality of ends; as well as A tubular sleeve of heat-deformable plastic film, sized to slidably surround the base and extend at least axially to the flange, the sleeve being heat-deformable around the base and forming a waterproof seal around the base between the flanges.

13. The hair trimmer according to claim 12, wherein, It also includes at least one of the flange at the drive shaft end and the flange at the opposite end, each of the flanges being provided with a supplementary seal, the flange at the drive shaft end being associated with the motor.

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