Shaving razor and related components

Abstract

A razor includes a cartridge, a cartridge connector, and a razor handle. The handle includes a gripping region and a connection region. The connection region includes an attachment component. The attachment component is located within a hollow interior of the handle. The connector is attached to the attachment component located within the handle.

Description

[0001] Background of the Invention Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to razors and tools for reducing hair length, and more specifically to manual or wet razors, including blade holders, connectors, and handles. Background Technology

[0003] Wet or manual razors include a connected blade holder and handle. Some razors are disposable systems, where the blade holder is attached to the handle and the razor is discarded after the blade holder is used up (e.g., the blades become dull). Some razors are system razors, where the blade holder is attached to the handle and can be replaced with a new blade holder once it is used up. In either case, the razor includes a connection structure for attaching the blade holder to the handle. Some connection structures are direct structures, where a feature on the handle is attached to a feature on the blade holder. Some connection structures require a separate component (a connector) that engages the blade holder and the handle respectively. Such a connector may be included together with the blade holder, so that the connector and the blade holder are presented to the consumer as a single item.

[0004] As consumers increasingly favor unique designs made from distinctive materials and, more importantly, more sustainable products, it is desirable to consider materials derived from natural sources and / or recycled materials. For such designs and materials, variations in tolerances and materials present further design hurdles and necessitate further designs that accommodate wider tolerances. Therefore, improvements to the attachment parts of the razor handle assembly are desirable. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure includes an attachment member for a razor. The attachment member has a top surface that is substantially opposite to a bottom surface. The top and bottom surfaces are connected by a pair of lateral walls. The attachment member has a front end that is substantially opposite to a rear end. The attachment member has a cavity within its body that defines an inner surface.

[0006] At least one attachment member includes at least one handle attachment feature. The at least one handle attachment feature may optionally be at least one latch. The at least one latch may optionally extend rearward from the body of the attachment member.

[0007] At least one handle attachment feature may optionally be at least one and at most eight snap-fit ​​features. At least one snap-fit ​​feature has a cantilever structure surrounded by snap-fit ​​gaps. The cantilever structure includes a boss projecting upward from the snap-fit ​​feature.

[0008] Optionally, the latch at least partially defines the cavity.

[0009] Optionally, at least one snap-fit ​​feature is located on the bottom surface.

[0010] Optionally, at least one latch extends along the bottom surface.

[0011] Optionally, at least one latch extends from the front end.

[0012] Optionally, at least one snap-fit ​​feature extends from the rear end.

[0013] Optionally, at least one latching feature extends downward from at least one latch.

[0014] This disclosure further envisions a razor handle. The razor handle optionally includes a sheet of material formed in a tubular shape. The handle has a top region generally opposite a bottom region. The top and bottom regions are connected by opposing sides. The handle has a connecting end generally opposite a gripping end. The handle includes at least one hole or recess formed on at least an inner surface. At least a portion of the inner surface defines a hollow interior.

[0015] The razor handle further includes an attachment member having a top surface generally opposite the bottom surface, the top and bottom surfaces being connected by a pair of lateral walls. The attachment member also has a front end generally opposite the rear end. The attachment member has a cavity within the body. This cavity defines an internal surface.

[0016] The attachment component further includes at least one handle attachment feature. The at least one handle attachment feature may optionally be at least one latch. The at least one latch may optionally extend rearward from the body of the handle attachment feature.

[0017] At least one handle attachment feature may optionally be at least one and at most eight snap-fit ​​features. At least one snap-fit ​​feature has a cantilever structure surrounded by a gap. The cantilever structure includes a boss projecting upward from the snap-fit ​​feature.

[0018] At least one latch engages with the inner surface of the handle.

[0019] At least one boss is positioned within at least one hole or recess.

[0020] Optionally, the sheet has a first end and a second end, which intersect to form a seam.

[0021] Optionally, at least one latch and at least one snap-fit ​​feature are preloaded and apply compressive force to the inner surface of the handle.

[0022] Optionally, at least one boss may include two bosses.

[0023] Optionally, at least one boss extends from at least one latch.

[0024] Optionally, at least one snap-fit ​​feature is a cantilever structure surrounded by a snap-fit ​​gap that communicates with a cavity within the attachment component.

[0025] Optionally, the razor handle further includes a button. The button has an upper surface that is substantially opposite to a lower surface. The button has an outer edge. The lower surface further includes a guide member extending downward from the lower surface. The guide member has a ramped surface. A wall is spaced apart from the guide member. A channel is located between the wall and the guide member.

[0026] Optionally, the razor handle further includes a retention mechanism. This retention mechanism includes a front latch. The retention mechanism also includes a rear latch. The front latch engages a ramp surface. The rear latch engages a rib extending from the attachment member.

[0027] The retaining mechanism further includes a spring. The spring engages the wall such that it is positioned between the wall and the guide member.

[0028] The spring engages with the recess located on the wall.

[0029] This disclosure further envisions a razor. The razor includes a blade holder having at least one blade and at least one attachment area.

[0030] The razor further includes a connector having a connector body. The connector has an outer surface. The connector has a front surface generally opposite the handle connection section. The connector includes a pair of journals extending from the front surface.

[0031] The razor further includes a handle, which optionally includes a sheet of material. The sheet of material may optionally be shaped as a tubular shape, a generally cylindrical shape, or otherwise as contemplated in this disclosure. The handle has a top region generally opposite a bottom region. The top and bottom regions are connected by opposing sides. The handle has a connecting end generally opposite a gripping end. The handle includes at least one hole or recess. At least one hole or recess is formed at least on an inner surface of the handle. At least a portion of the inner surface defines a hollow interior.

[0032] The razor further includes an attachment member. The attachment member has a top surface generally opposite a bottom surface. The top and bottom surfaces are connected by a pair of lateral walls. The attachment member has a front end generally opposite a rear end. The attachment member has a cavity within the body of the attachment member. The cavity defines an internal surface of the attachment member. The attachment member further includes at least one handle attachment feature. The at least one handle attachment feature optionally includes at least one latch extending rearward from the body. The handle attachment feature optionally includes at least one and at most eight snap-fit ​​features. The at least one snap-fit ​​feature has a cantilever structure surrounded by a gap. The cantilever structure includes a boss projecting upward from the snap-fit ​​feature.

[0033] The handle attachment section engages with at least one latch.

[0034] The handle attachment section is located at least partially inside the hollow interior of the handle.

[0035] At least one latch engages with the inner surface of the handle.

[0036] At least one boss is positioned within at least one hole or recess.

[0037] The razor optionally includes a button. The button has a top surface generally opposite a bottom surface. The button has an outer edge. The bottom surface includes a guide member extending downward from the bottom surface. The guide member has a ramped surface. A wall is spaced apart from the guide member. A channel is located between the wall and the guide member.

[0038] Optionally, the button is located within an opening on the handle. The button is configured to move between a rear region and a front region of the opening.

[0039] Optionally, the connector further includes a pop-out surface located on the outer surface of the handle connection section.

[0040] Optionally, the retention mechanism further includes an arm extending from the retention mechanism. The arm has a spring-biased surface.

[0041] Optionally, the relative motion between the button and the spring-biased surface applies a force to the ejector surface.

[0042] Alternatively, when force is applied to the pop-out surface, the connector moves forward along the central axis to the outside of the hollow portion of the handle.

[0043] Optionally, the sheet has a first end and a second end, which intersect to form a seam.

[0044] Unless otherwise expressly indicated, the foregoing features and elements may be combined in various combinations without exclusivity. For example, aspects and / or embodiments of this disclosure may include any one or more of the various features or elements disclosed above and / or below individually or in any combination thereof. These features and elements, and their operation, will become clearer from the following description and drawings. However, it should be understood that the following description and drawings are intended to be exemplary and not restrictive in nature. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Figure 1 This is an angled illustration of a razor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a razor blade holder according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 3 This is an angled view of the side of a razor blade holder according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 3A yes Figure 3 The bottom of the razor blade holder is angled as shown in the diagram.

[0049] Figure 4 This is an illustration of an attachment component according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Figures 4A-4E This is an illustration of an attachment component according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a razor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Figure 5A This is a cross-sectional view of a razor handle, attachment parts, and connector according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0053] Figure 5B This is a cross-sectional view of a razor handle and attachment components according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of a razor handle, attachment parts, and connector according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0055] Figure 6A yes Figure 6 Detailed cross-sectional diagram.

[0056] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of a razor handle, attachment parts, and connector according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0057] Figure 7A yes Figure 7 Detailed cross-sectional diagram. Detailed Implementation

[0058] Now refer to the example Figure 1 A razor 20 is provided, extending generally along a central axis 110. The razor 20 includes a razor blade holder 22, a razor connector 24, and a razor handle 26. For simplicity, the razor blade holder 22 will be referred to as "blade holder 22," the razor connector 24 as "connector 24," and the razor handle 26 as "handle 26." The handle 26 includes an attachment part 27 and optionally includes a button 84, and also optionally includes a retention mechanism 86. The handle 26, attachment part 27, button 84, and retention mechanism 86 are collectively referred to as "handle assembly 100." Those skilled in the art will understand that it can be used in conjunction with the aforementioned components even without using the term "handle assembly 100."

[0059] As exemplary Figure 1 As shown, the blade holder 22 is attached to the connector 24, and the connector 24 is attached to the attachment part 27, and optionally also to the handle 26, and such attachments will be discussed in more detail below. Optionally, the blade holder 22 and the connector 24 are coupled as a single unit or as a whole, particularly when packaged for sale to consumers. Optionally, and as exemplarily... Figure 1 As shown, connector 24 and handle 26 are connected as a single unit or as a whole, especially when packaged for sale to consumers.

[0060] Now refer to the example Figures 1-3A A blade holder 22 is provided. The blade holder 22 typically includes a guard 28 (although this guard is not required in some embodiments), at least one blade unit 30, and a cap 32. As exemplified... Figure 2 As shown, the blade holder 22 optionally includes a guard 28 that spans from the front end 34 of the blade holder and the rear edge 36 of the guard 28. The guard 28 extends laterally across the blade holder 22. The guard 28 (whether attached to the blade holder 22 or another part of the razor 20) is generally located in the front portion of at least one blade unit 30. The guard 28 includes a skin-engaging surface 38 designed to stretch, exfoliate, lubricate, moisturize, otherwise treat the hairy surface 40, and / or align the hair as hair enters at least one blade unit. The guard 28 optionally has a morphology 42 that includes peak surfaces 44 and valleys 46 located between the peak surfaces 44. Such morphology 42 optionally includes fins, ribs, comb-like structures, or other ridges.

[0061] Now refer to the exemplary and non-restrictive examples. Figures 2-3A The blade holder 22 includes at least one blade unit 30. The at least one blade unit 30 includes at least one blade 48. In some embodiments, the at least one blade unit 30 includes at least two blades 48 in a stacked configuration, wherein at least one cutting portion 52 extends forward and / or outward toward the guard 28.

[0062] As exemplary Figure 2As best viewed, at least one blade 48 may optionally be a welded blade 50 structure, including a cutting portion 52 welded to the blade support portion 54 (located on the top surface 56 or the lower surface 58 of the blade support portion 54), or a bent blade 60 such that it has the cutting portion 52 and the blade support portion 54, or is generally flat where the cutting portion 52 is generally opposite to the blade support portion 54. Optionally, at least one blade 48 may optionally be a double-edged blade, wherein each end extends opposite to the blade holder 22 such that the end facing away from the guard 28 is a trimming blade 66 in the cap 32. The trimming blade 66 will be discussed in more detail below. The blade support portion 54 faces either the guard 28 or the cap 32. In some embodiments, at least two blade units 30, 62 are present. In some such embodiments, the first blade unit 30 includes at least one blade 48 positioned such that each of the corresponding at least one cutting portion 52 is along a first direction, while the second blade unit 60 includes at least one blade 48 positioned such that each of the corresponding at least one cutting portion 52 is along a second direction.

[0063] At least one blade 48 may optionally be between one blade and seven blades, or between two blades and six blades, or between two blades and five blades, or for two blades, three blades, four blades, five blades, six blades or seven blades.

[0064] At least one blade 48 includes a structure in which the cutting portion 52 has a cutting edge 70 that is substantially symmetrical about a cross section transverse to the length 72 of the at least one blade 48. Optionally, at least one blade 48 includes a structure in which the cutting portion 52 has a cutting edge 70 that is substantially symmetrical about a cross section transverse to the length of the at least one blade 48.

[0065] Now refer to the example Figure 2 In some embodiments, at least one blade guard 64 is positioned such that it provides a support surface 40 near or adjacent to the hairy surface 38 of the cutting edge 70. In some such embodiments, at least one blade guard 64 is welded to the cutting portion 52 of at least one blade 48 (welded at the cutting portion 52 or welded to the top surface 56 of the blade support portion 54), positioned adjacent to at least one blade 48, and welded or glued around the blade support portion 54 and the lower end 74 of the blade guard 64.

[0066] As at least exemplary Figure 2As shown, at least one trimming blade 66 is optionally provided. This at least one trimming blade 66 is optionally located within at least one blade unit 30. At least one trimming blade 66 is optionally located within a second blade unit 62. At least one trimming blade 66 is optionally positioned such that its cutting edge 70 extends outward from the back side 76 of the blade holder 22. This back side 76 is substantially opposite a portion of the adjacent skin-engaging surface 38 and hairy surface 40 of the blade holder 22. At least one trimming blade 66 is optionally positioned such that its cutting edge 70 extends outward from the cap 32 of the blade holder 22. In other configurations, at least one trimming blade 66 is positioned within a protective member 28 (not shown).

[0067] As exemplary Figure 2 As shown, in a further embodiment, the blade holder 22 includes a skin support element 68 adjacent to and / or located within at least one blade unit 30. For example, the skin support element 68 is positioned between the guard 28 and the first blade 48. In another example, the skin support element 68 is positioned between the first blade 48 and the second blade 49. In a further embodiment, the skin support element 68 is positioned alternately with the blade 48. In yet another embodiment, the skin support element 68 is positioned between the first blade unit 30 and the second blade unit 62. In yet another embodiment, the skin support element 68 is a blunt blade or blank (i.e., a blade without a sharp edge). The skin support element 68 may optionally include different morphologies to provide functionality similar to the guard 28 and / or cap 32, and therefore may include skin stretching, exfoliating elements, or hair alignment features, or may optionally include lubricants, skin-benefiting agents, combinations thereof, etc. The skin support element 68 may optionally be a blade guard 64. A rinsing gap may separate at least one blade 48 and the skin support element 68. The skin support element 68 may be attached to or adjacent to at least one blade 48 (e.g., a blade guard). It should be noted that the guard 28 and the cap 32 also serve as the skin support element 68.

[0068] Refer to the example Figure 2 The cap 32 is positioned behind at least one blade unit 30. The cap 32 may optionally include skin-beneficial agents, such as lubricants, emollients, nourishing ingredients, moisturizing ingredients, astringents, bactericides, anticoagulants, combinations thereof, etc.

[0069] In a further embodiment, the protective element 28 and the cap 32 include skin-beneficial agents, such as lubricants or soaps. The protective element 28 and / or the cap 32 may be movable, such that the protective element 32 and the cap may swing, deflect or pivot about the connecting axis 88 to the blade holder 22 (or optionally, the end of at least one blade unit 30).

[0070] Examples and non-limiting Figures 2-3 As best viewed, the razor blade holder 22 includes a frame 90 comprising one or more components. A guard 28, at least one blade unit 30, and / or a cap 32 are optionally attached to and held by or within the frame 90. Mechanical attachments characteristic of the blade holder 22 include, for example, friction fits, press fits, snap-fits, interference fits, or similar mechanical attachments, and may further include adhesives or other known attachment methods (e.g., ultrasonic waves, temperatures that induce material melting / melting, welding, etc.). The guard 28, at least one blade unit 30, and / or a cap 32 are optionally integral with the frame 90. Further embodiments include an integral frame 90. In some embodiments, at least one blade unit 30 is insert-molded into the frame 90, and the guard 28 and cap 32 are also molded together with the frame, or a second injection molding is performed during molding.

[0071] As exemplary Figure 3-Figure 3A As best viewed, the blade holder 22 includes at least one attachment region 94. This at least one attachment region 94 is in mechanical communication with an interaction feature on the connector 24, discussed in more detail below. Alternatively, the at least one attachment region 94 is integral with at least one journal 96 on the connector 24. The at least one attachment region 94 may optionally include at least two attachment regions 94 or two attachment regions 94, 94A. The at least one attachment region 94 may optionally include a recess, such as a support surface 98, such as a housing support. The at least one attachment region 94 may optionally include a recess (such as a trunnion or other suitably shaped feature) to engage with an interaction feature located on the journal 96 of the connector 24. Optionally, the at least one attachment region 94 includes a pin or pin receiving structure that is also capable of pivoting with the razor connector 24.

[0072] In some embodiments, and as exemplarily Figure 1 As shown, the back side 76 of the blade holder 22 defines a track 106. The track 106 is positioned orthogonal 80 to the length of the blade holder 22. In some embodiments, the track 106 is positioned in the central portion 104 of the back side 76 of the blade holder 22.

[0073] Depending on the configuration of the razor 20, the blade holder 22 may have pivot axes (e.g., connecting axis 88) in multiple locations, including pivot axes (e.g., connecting axis 88) within the guard 28, pivot axes (e.g., connecting axis 88) within the cap 32, pivot axes (e.g., connecting axis 88) generally centered in at least one blade unit 30, and so on.

[0074] Now refer to the example Figure 3-Figure 3A , Figure 5 , Figure 6A and Figure 7Connector 24 includes a connector body 112 having an outer surface 114. The connector body 112 has a front section 116 generally opposite a handle connection section 118. The handle connection section 118 includes at least one stop surface 120, and optionally includes two stop surfaces 120, 120A. The connector body 112 has a top portion 122 and a bottom portion 124. The top portion 122 and the bottom portion 124 are connected by lateral sides 126, 126A. As shown, the connector body 112 is generally arcuate, with a generally circular cross-sectional shape, but may optionally be other shapes, such as triangles, polygons, quadrilaterals, combinations thereof.

[0075] The connector body 112 includes a rearward-facing pop-out surface 108. The pop-out surface 108 is optionally located on a top portion 122. The pop-out surface 108 is optionally located on a bottom portion 124. The pop-out surface 108 is optionally located on a handle connection section 118.

[0076] The handle connecting section 118 may optionally extend rearward and / or outward from the bottom portion 124. The handle connecting section 118 may optionally extend rearward and / or outward from the top portion 122. The handle connecting section 118 may optionally extend rearward and / or outward from the side to the side 126, 126A.

[0077] Connector 24 may optionally be a plurality of parts attached together. Connector 24 may optionally be integral. Connector 24 may optionally include movable or flexible portions, which will be discussed in more detail below. Connector 24 may optionally be substantially rigid or have substantially rigid portions, which will also be discussed in more detail below.

[0078] The connector body 112 is configured to engage and attach to the attachment part 27, and optionally also to the handle 26, as will be discussed in more detail below. The connector 24 is configured to attach to the blade holder 22, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0079] In some embodiments, the blade holder 22 is provided together with the connector 24. The blade holder 22 includes a blade holder frame 90 having one or more components and a guard 28 consisting of one or more components positioned in front of at least one blade unit 30. The at least one blade unit 30 includes at least one blade 48. A cap 32 is positioned at the rear of the at least one blade unit 30. The cap 32 may optionally include a skin-beneficial agent, such as a lubricant. The guard 28, the at least one blade unit 30, and the cap 32 are positioned such that they are located on the skin-engaging surface 38 of the blade holder 22. The blade holder 22 may optionally include other features, such as one or more trimming blades 66. The blade holder 22 includes at least one attachment region 94 located on the back side 76 of the blade holder 22 opposite to the skin-engaging surface 38. The at least one attachment region 94 engages and / or communicates mechanically with a corresponding journal 96 on the connector 24.

[0080] The connector body 112 includes a pair of journals 96 (first journal 96 and second journal 96A) extending outwardly from the connector body. The first journal 96 and second journal 96A extend from the connector 24. Each journal 96, 96A optionally includes a connection feature, such as a support surface (e.g., a housing support), a recess (e.g., a trunnion or other suitably shaped feature), to engage with an interaction feature located on an attachment region 94 of the blade holder 22. Optionally, each journal 96, 96A includes a pin or pin receiving structure that is also pivotally connected to a corresponding attachment region 94, 94A of the blade holder 22.

[0081] Razor 20 includes a biasing element 102 that is mechanically in communication with the back side 76 of blade holder 22 and connector body 112. The biasing element 102 extends from the front section 116 of connector 24. The biasing element 102 optionally extends from journals 96, 96A. The biasing element 102 has various configurations, including arcuate, elongated, etc. The biasing element 102 is optionally generally aligned with or generally parallel to the central axis 110.

[0082] Optionally, the biasing element 102 is attached to the connector body 112 by mechanical attachment (e.g., by snap-fit, friction fit, press fit or latch, thermal riveting, welding, laser welding, ultrasonic welding or adhesive). Optionally, the biasing element 102 is integral with the connector body 112.

[0083] Now refer to the example Figures 4-5BThe attachment member 27 has an attachment body 128, which includes a top surface 130 generally opposite to a bottom surface 132. The bottom surface 132 and the top surface 130 are separated by lateral walls 134, 134A. The attachment member 27 includes a front end portion 136 generally opposite to a rear end portion 138. The attachment member 27 includes a cavity 140 located within the body and having an inner surface. The cavity 140 is at least partially located within the top surface 130, the bottom surface 132, and the lateral walls 134, 134A. An outer surface 142 generally opposite to the inner surface 144 and is defined by the top surface 130, the lateral walls 134, 134A, and the bottom surface 132. The outer surface 142 extends along the front end portion 136 and the rear end portion 138.

[0084] A handle attachment feature 146 is optionally located on one or both of a top surface 130 and a bottom surface 132. The handle attachment feature 146 is optionally located on one or both of a front end portion 136 and a rear end portion 138. The handle attachment feature 146 optionally includes a latch 148 having a cantilever end 150 extending rearward toward a rear edge 152 or forward toward a front edge 154. The handle attachment feature optionally includes a snap-fit ​​feature 156 that resembles or engages with one or more latches 148. The snap-fit ​​feature 156 includes a cantilever structure 158 located within a snap-fit ​​gap 160. The snap-fit ​​gap 160 optionally extends inward from one or both of a rear edge 152 and a front edge 154. The snap-fit ​​feature 156 includes a boss 162 projecting upward from the surface on which it extends. For example, if the snap-fit ​​feature 156 is generally located on the top surface 130, the boss 162 extends upward from the top surface 130. For example, if the snap-fit ​​feature 156 is located on the bottom surface 132, the boss 162 extends downward from the bottom surface 132. In embodiments where the snap-fit ​​feature 156 includes a cantilever structure 158, the snap-fit ​​feature 156 may optionally be peninsula-shaped, such that it is surrounded by a snap-fit ​​gap 160. The snap-fit ​​gap 160 may optionally communicate with a cavity 140 within the attachment member 27. In some embodiments, there is at least one handle attachment feature 146, at least two handle attachment features 146, at least three handle attachment features 146, at least four handle attachment features 146, or optionally a single handle attachment feature 146, two handle attachment features 146, three handle attachment features 146, or four handle attachment features 146. While latch 148 and snap-fit ​​feature 156 are envisioned herein, other handle attachment features 146 are also within the scope of this disclosure, including, for example, pawls.

[0085] The rear end portion 138 of the attachment member 27 includes at least one rib 161 extending inward into the cavity 140. The at least one rib 161 is located near the rear edge 152. The at least one rib 161 is located inside the rear edge 152.

[0086] Attachment feature 27 includes a retention mechanism 86. The retention mechanism 86 includes a retention body 166 having a spring portion 168. The retention mechanism 86 includes a first latch (e.g., a front latch) 170 and a second latch (e.g., a rear latch) 172. The retention mechanism 86 includes a rear wall 174. The retention body 166 includes a beam 176 along the length of the retention mechanism 86. The beam 176 includes an arm 178 having a spring-biased surface 180. The front latch 170 extends from the rear surface 182 of the arm 178, which is generally opposite the spring-biased surface 180. The arm 178 may optionally be angled or bend between the front latch 170 and the spring-biased surface 180.

[0087] Button 84 includes an upper surface 184 that is generally opposite to a lower surface 186. Button 84 has a button outer edge 188. A guide member 190 extends from the lower surface 186 and includes a ramp surface 192 located on a lower portion 194 of the guide member 190. A wall 196 extends from the lower surface 186. The wall optionally includes a recess 198. The wall 196 is optionally spaced apart from the guide member 190, forming a channel 200 between the wall and the guide member. Optionally, the upper surface 184 is tapered or arcuate and forms a stop surface 202 near the front end 204 of the button 84.

[0088] As exemplary Figure 1 As shown, the handle 26 is provided together with the blade holder 22. At least as... Figure 1 and Figures 5-7A As shown, the handle 26 has a handle body 206, which includes a gripping area 208. The handle 26 has a connecting end 208 that is generally opposite to a rear end 210. The handle 26 has an outer surface 212 that is generally opposite to an inner surface 214. The handle 26 has a top region 218 that is generally opposite to a bottom region 220, and the top region 218 and the bottom region 220 are connected by generally opposite sides 222, 222A.

[0089] The handle 26 optionally has a wall thickness 224. The handle 26 optionally is thin. The handle wall thickness 224 optionally is between 0.1 mm and about 10 mm, between about 0.5 mm and about 5 mm, between about 0.5 mm and about 3 mm, or between about 1 mm and about 3 mm. The handle 26 optionally is at least partially a hollow portion 228. In some embodiments, the entire handle 26 is a hollow portion 228. The handle 26 optionally is a sheet of material formed such that opposite ends 226, 226A of the sheet are close to each other, thereby forming a seam 230 therebetween. The seam 230 is generally aligned with the central axis 110. The seam 230 is optionally located generally below the center of the top region 218 or the bottom region 220.

[0090] The handle 26 optionally includes at least one hole 232, and optionally includes multiple holes 232. At least one hole 232 is located at the connecting end 210, although in embodiments with multiple holes 232, additional holes 232 may also be located throughout the gripping area 208. The number of holes 232 may optionally be proportional to the number of handle attachment features 146 (e.g., latch 148, snap-fit ​​feature 156). Optionally, the holes 232 do not extend through the wall 223 of the handle, but are merely recesses 198 within the inner surface 216.

[0091] The handle 26 has an opening 236 having a front region 238 generally opposite the rear region 240. The opening 236 is located at the connecting end 210 of the handle 26. The opening 236 extends between an outer surface 214 and an inner surface 216. The opening 236 allows access to a hollow portion 228 located inside the handle 26. The opening 236 is optionally positioned on a top region 218. The opening 236 is optionally positioned on a bottom region 220. The opening 236 has an outer edge 246.

[0092] The handle 26 may optionally be elongated, although it may be short or stout, but other shapes of the handle 26 are also optional. The handle 26 may optionally be generally cylindrical or tubular. The handle 26 may optionally be generally flat and thin, and may optionally have a hollow portion 228. The handle 26 may optionally be narrow. The handle 26 may optionally be generally cubic, generally elongated, or include a body having at least one generally cylindrical or generally tubular portion. The handle 26 may optionally have a cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the central axis 110, which may be a cube, prism, triangle, polygon, ellipse, circle, arc, or a combination thereof.

[0093] In some embodiments, the blade holder 22 and connector 24 are attached together and optionally packaged / sold together. The handle assembly 100 and / or attachment part 27, retention mechanism 86, button 84 and / or handle 26 are optionally attached together and packaged / sold together. Alternatively, the entire razor 20 is attached and packaged / sold as a single unit.

[0094] At least one attachment region 94 allows the blade holder 22 to be selectively attached to or engaged with the connector 24. The rail 106 interacts with a biasing element 102 on the connector 24. In some embodiments, the biasing element 102 is located on the handle 26, which engages via the connector 24 and is connected to the rail 106.

[0095] Now refer to the example Figures 5-7A The attachment between connector 24 and attachment part 27 and handle 26 will be described in more detail.

[0096] During assembly, the attachment member 27 is positioned within the handle 26, and, in some embodiments, within the hollow portion 218 of the handle 26. Therefore, the outer surface 142 of the attachment member 27 lies within the inner surface 216 of the handle 26. In embodiments where the handle 26 is formed of sheet material, the sheet is formed to its intended shape before the attachment member 27 is assembled into the handle. The attachment feature 146 of the handle 26 is preloaded to be biased outward, thereby being configured to apply a compressive force to the handle 26 upon attachment. The attachment member 27 applies the compressive force at least through the handle attachment feature 146 (e.g., at least one latch 148 and / or at least one snap-fit ​​feature 156). At least one boss 162 on at least one latch 148 and / or at least one snap-fit ​​feature 156 engages at least one hole 162 (or recess 198) of the handle 26. In an embodiment having at least one hole 162, when the handle 26 and the handle attachment feature 146 are attached, at least one boss 162 of at least one latch 148 and / or at least one snap-fit ​​feature 156 is substantially flush with the outer surface 214 of the handle 26.

[0097] The retention mechanism 86 is in mechanical communication with the attachment member 27. The attachment member 27 at least partially surrounds the retention mechanism 86. The retention mechanism 86 is at least partially located within the cavity 140 of the attachment mechanism 27. The rear wall 174 of the retention mechanism 86 is positioned behind the rear rib 161 of the attachment member 27. The rear latch 172 engages the second rib 163.

[0098] Connector 24 is attached to attachment member 27. Connector body 112, having handle connection segment 118, engages with front end portion 136 of attachment member 27. Front end portion 136 of attachment member 27 includes cavity 140 suitably configured to receive at least a portion of handle connection segment 118. Front end portion 136 of attachment member 27 optionally includes lateral walls 134, 134A extending forward and / or outward from attachment member body 128. In such embodiments, lateral walls 134, 134A provide at least one guide surface 135 to at least partially orient handle connection segment 118 into cavity 140 of attachment member 27. Handle connection segment 118 is configured to have geometry suitable for engaging front end portion 136 of attachment member 27 and optionally engaging connection end portion 210 of handle 26. In some embodiments, the connector 24 has at least one extension 242 extending from the handle connection section 118, the extension 242 being inserted into the lateral sides 126, 126A of the connector body 112. In other words, at least one extension 242 is narrower than the connector body 112. In other words, at least one extension 242 has a width 244 smaller than the width 234 of the connector body.

[0099] The connection between connector 24 and attachment 27 is achieved through relative movement between them, such as translation, sliding, and / or pivoting. Connector 24 and attachment 27 are connected when the handle connection segment 118 passes through the cavity 140 and engages the inner surface 144 of handle attachment feature 146 (e.g., at least one latch 148, at least one snap-fit ​​feature 156), causing handle attachment feature 146 to be biased outward from its rest configuration. This biasing may optionally deflect handle attachment feature 146 outward from outer surface 142. This biasing may optionally deflect handle attachment feature outward from outer surface 142 and engage the hole 232 (or recess 198) of handle 26. Optionally, the connection between connector 24 and attachment 27 is strengthened when the stop surface 202 on connector 24 approaches and / or is adjacent to the foremost end of the lateral walls 134, 134A.

[0100] When relative movement occurs between connector 24 and attachment area 27, the first latch 170 of retention mechanism 86 crosses handle connection section 118. Arm 178 of retention mechanism 86 is positioned such that spring bias surface 180 approaches, is adjacent to, or abuts against ejector surface 180.

[0101] Button 84 is positioned within orifice 236 of handle 26 such that outer edge 188 of button is located within outer edge 246 of orifice. Button 84 is positioned such that at least a portion of upper surface 184 extends upward and outward from outer surface 214 of handle 26. Lower surface 186 extends downward into handle 26 (e.g., hollow interior 228 of handle 26). Lower surface 186 faces downward toward attachment member 27. Guide member 190 hangs downward into gap 164 in attachment member 27 such that ramp 192 of guide member 190 partially engages front latch 170. Guide member 190 extends downward and engages rear latch 172. Optionally, recess 198 engages matingly with rear latch 172, and thus each of recess 198 and rear latch 172 is configured to be appropriately sized and shaped for such engagement. The rear latch 172 applies force to the guide member 190, thereby holding the button 84 near the rear region 240 of the orifice 236. The front latch 170 also applies force to the ramp 192, thereby biasing the button 84 downward and preventing the button 84 from disengaging from the handle 26. The handle attachment feature 146 does not interfere with the function of the button 84. Therefore, the handle attachment feature 146 may optionally be located on the opposite side of the button 84, for example, if the button 84 is positioned on the top region 218 of the handle 26, the attachment feature 146 engages the bottom region 220 of the handle 26.

[0102] like Figure 1 As shown, button 84 is located in the top region 218 of the connecting end 208. Figure 3-3A , Figure 4-4Band Figure 4D-4E As shown, the attachment part 27 includes two snap-fit ​​features 156. (As...) Figure 4B and Figure 4D-4E As shown, the attachment member 27 includes two snap-fit ​​features 156. The two snap-fit ​​features 156 extend from and cooperate with the latch 148. Figure 4C As shown, four snap-fit ​​features 156 are provided, wherein two snap-fit ​​features 156 are positioned in the front end portion 136 of the attachment member 27, and each of the two snap-fit ​​features 156 is a cantilever 150 surrounded by a snap-fit ​​gap 160 communicating with the cavity 140. The other two snap-fit ​​features 156 are positioned in the rear end portion 138.

[0103] The mechanically connected components of the razor 20 are attached by one or more of the following: friction fit, press fit, interference fit, at least one latch, at least one locking device, or a combination thereof.

[0104] To disengage the connector 26 from the handle 26, the button 84 moves relative to the handle 26 from the rear region 240 to the front region 238. The button 84 moves under the action of a force applied to the upper surface 184 (e.g., the upper surface 184 extends to the stop surface 202). When force is applied to the button 84, the button 84 moves toward the front region 238 by, for example, sliding, translating, pivoting, or combinations thereof. The guide member 190 applies force against the rear latch 172, causing the rear latch 172 to further deviate from its rest state and optionally deflect outward or forward along the central axis 110. The front latch 170 slides, translates, pivots, rotates, and / or combinations thereof along the ramp surface 192. The spring-biased surface 180 applies force against the ejector surface 108, causing the connector 24 to move outward or forward along the central axis 110. As the button 84 (relative to the handle) travels to the front region 238 of the orifice 236, the connector 24 is released from the attachment part 27 and the handle 26. Thereafter, the button 84 can be released from the applied force and is allowed to return to its stationary configuration in the rear region of the orifice 236.

[0105] A variety of materials are suitable for the razor 20. For example, hard plastics are commonly used for the blade holder 22, connector 24, attachment part 27, button 84, retention mechanism 86, and handle 26, such as polypropylene, polyethylene, and ABS. Thermoplastic elastomer materials and rubbers are used for various components in the guard 28, cap 32, handle 26, attachment part 27, button 84, retention mechanism 86, and connector 24, and typically support the skin support element 68 and / or support skin stretching / wiping, bending, friction connection, grip, etc. Metals (such as sheet metal, metal alloys, aluminum, and stainless steel) are used for blades 30, 48, 62, springs, handle 26, etc. Other materials, including carbon fiber, composite materials, laminates, natural materials derived from wood and grass, compostable materials, and recycled materials (e.g., recycled polypropylene), are also available.

[0106] The handle 26 may optionally be a sheet material (e.g., metal sheet, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, brass, silver, plastic, paper-based or pulp-based materials such as fiberboard or carbon paperboard, wood veneer, combinations thereof, etc.) and may be formed by bending, with or without steam and / or heat, casting, extrusion, injection molding, etc. The handle 26 may optionally be stamped or subjected to laser cutting or plasma cutting to form at least one hole 232. The ends 226 of the sheet material used to form the handle 26 may optionally be fastened together by, for example, mechanical fasteners, adhesives, thermal riveting, welding, brazing, copper soldering, etc.

[0107] The razor 20 of this disclosure has many advantages. In embodiments having a handle 26 forming a thin material surrounding a hollow interior 228, the thin material (e.g., a sheet of metal) includes a seam 230. Each end 226 of the handle 26 material has inherent elasticity, and during formation, despite efforts to form such material consistently, the ends may “spring back,” resulting in significant deviations in tolerances. Such deviations can further cause aesthetic problems. While such material can be post-formed after the handle 26 is fully assembled (e.g., re-inspect the handle 26), this adds an extra process step and includes the risk of potentially damaging attachment parts 27, etc. The attachment part 27 of this disclosure, having handle attachment features 146 (e.g., a latch 148 and at least one snap-fit ​​feature 156), helps to hold the handle 26 in a specific shape and thus mitigates the “springback” effect. Therefore, the extra process step of re-inspecting the handle 26 is avoided, and options that may compromise aesthetics (e.g., welding or riveting) are avoided.

[0108] The terms “substantially,” “approximately,” and / or “about” as contemplated herein are used within the scope of this disclosure in the context of understanding minute variations in dimensions. Such minute variations may include those resulting from manufacturing tolerances and / or expansion / contraction and / or wear of parts under different conditions (e.g., pressure, force, temperature, etc.).

[0109] While the principles of this disclosure have been described above in conjunction with specific devices and methods, it should be clearly understood that this description is by way of example only and not as a limitation on the scope of this disclosure. Specific details are set forth in the foregoing description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it should be understood that embodiments may be practiced without these specific details.

[0110] It should be noted that embodiments can be described as processes depicted in flowcharts, schematic diagrams, block diagrams, etc. While any of these structures can describe operations as a sequential process, many operations can be performed in parallel or simultaneously. Furthermore, the order of operations can be rearranged. A process can correspond to a method, function, program, subroutine, subroutine, etc.

[0111] The singular forms “a (a, an)” and “the” refer to one or more than one unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, the term “including samples” includes one or more samples and is considered equivalent to the phrase “including at least one sample.” Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the term “or” refers to a single element or a combination of two or more elements among the alternative elements. As used herein, “including” means “comprising.” Therefore, “including A or B” means “including A or B or A and B,” without excluding additional elements.

[0112] It should be noted that various connections are depicted between the elements in this specification and the accompanying drawings (the contents of which are included in this disclosure by reference). It should be noted that these connections are generic and, unless otherwise stated, can be direct or indirect, and this specification is not intended to be limiting in this regard. Any reference to attachment, fixing, connection, etc., may include permanent, removable, temporary, partial, complete, and / or any other possible attachment options.

[0113] No element, component, or method step in this disclosure is intended to be made public, whether or not it is expressly recited in the claims. No element of any claim herein shall be construed under 35 USC 112(f) unless expressly recited using the phrase “means for…”. As used herein, the terms “comprise” or any other variation thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements may include not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.

[0114] While various inventive aspects, concepts, and features of this disclosure may be described and illustrated herein as being embodied in combinations in exemplary embodiments, these various aspects, concepts, and features may be used individually or in various combinations and sub-combinations in many alternative embodiments. All such combinations and sub-combinations are intended to be within the scope of this application unless expressly excluded herein. Furthermore, while various alternative embodiments (e.g., alternative materials, structures, configurations, methods, apparatuses, and components, etc.) with respect to various aspects, concepts, and features of this disclosure may be described herein, such description is not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list of available alternative embodiments, whether currently known or developed hereafter. Those skilled in the art can readily apply one or more inventive aspects, concepts, or features to additional embodiments and uses within the scope of this application, even if such embodiments are not expressly disclosed herein. For example, in the exemplary embodiments described above in the Detailed Description section of this specification, elements may be described as separate units and shown as independent of each other for ease of description. In alternative embodiments, such elements may be configured as combined elements. It should be further noted that various method or process steps for embodiments of this disclosure are described herein. This description may present the methods and / or process steps as a particular sequence. However, the method or process should not be limited to the specific sequence of steps described herein, as it does not depend on the specific order of steps set forth herein. Other sequences of steps are possible, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. Therefore, the specific order of steps set forth in the specification should not be construed as limiting.

Claims

1. An attachment member for a razor, the attachment member comprising: A top surface, which is generally opposite to a bottom surface, the top surface and the bottom surface being connected by a pair of lateral walls, the attachment member having a front end portion, the front end portion being generally opposite to a rear end portion, the attachment member having a cavity within the body, the cavity defining an internal surface; At least one latch extends rearward from the attachment member; At least one and at most eight snap-fit ​​features, the at least one snap-fit ​​feature having a cantilever structure surrounded by snap-fit ​​gaps, the cantilever structure including a boss projecting upward from the snap-fit ​​feature.

2. The attachment component according to claim 1, wherein, The latch at least partially defines the cavity.

3. The attachment component according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one snap-fit ​​feature is located on the bottom surface.

4. The attachment member according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one latch extends along the bottom surface.

5. The attachment member according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one latch extends from the front end.

6. The attachment member according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one snap-fit ​​feature extends from the rear end.

7. The attachment member according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one snap-fit ​​feature extends downward from the at least one latch.

8. A razor handle, comprising: A handle comprising a sheet formed in a tubular shape, the sheet having a first end and a second end intersecting to form a seam, the handle having a top region generally opposite a bottom region connected by opposite sides, the handle having a connecting end generally opposite a gripping end, and the handle including at least one hole or recess formed on an inner surface, at least a portion of the inner surface defining a hollow interior; An attachment member includes a top surface generally opposite a bottom surface, the top surface and the bottom surface being connected by a pair of lateral walls; the attachment member has a front end portion generally opposite a rear end portion; the attachment member has a cavity within the body defining an internal surface; the attachment member further includes: At least one latch extending rearward from the attachment member; and At least one and at most eight snap-fit ​​features, the at least one snap-fit ​​feature having a cantilever structure surrounded by snap-fit ​​gaps, the cantilever structure including a boss projecting upward from the snap-fit ​​feature; and Wherein, at least one latch engages with the inner surface of the handle; and The at least one boss is positioned within the at least one hole or recess.

9. The razor according to claim 8, wherein, The at least one latch and the at least one snap-fit ​​feature are preloaded and apply compressive force to the inner surface of the handle.

10. The razor according to claim 8, wherein, The at least one boss includes two bosses.

11. The razor according to claim 8, wherein, The at least one boss extends from the at least one latch.

12. The razor according to claim 8, wherein, The at least one snap-fit ​​feature is a cantilever structure surrounded by a snap-fit ​​gap, the snap-fit ​​gap communicating with the cavity within the attachment component.

13. The razor of claim 8, further comprising a button having an upper surface generally opposite a lower surface, the button having an outer edge, the lower surface comprising: A guide member extending downward from the lower surface of the button, the guide member having a sloping surface; and A wall, which is spaced apart from the guide member; The channel is located between the wall and the guide member.

14. The razor of claim 13, further comprising a retention mechanism including a front latch and a rear latch, the front latch engaging the ramp surface and the rear latch engaging a rib extending from the attachment member.

15. The razor according to claim 14, wherein, The retaining mechanism further includes a spring, wherein the spring engages the wall such that the spring is disposed between the wall and the guide member.

16. The razor according to claim 15, wherein, The spring engages with the recess on the wall.

17. A razor comprising: A blade holder having at least one blade and at least one attachment area; A connector having a connector body, an outer surface, a front surface generally opposite a handle connection section, and a pair of journals extending from the front surface; A handle comprising a sheet formed in a tubular shape, the handle having a top region generally opposite a bottom region connected by opposite sides, the handle having a connecting end generally opposite a gripping end, the handle including at least one hole or recess formed on an inner surface, at least a portion of the inner surface defining a hollow interior. An attachment member includes a top surface generally opposite a bottom surface, the top surface and the bottom surface being connected by a pair of lateral walls; the attachment member has a front end portion generally opposite a rear end portion; the attachment member has a cavity within the body defining an internal surface; the attachment member further includes: At least one latch extending rearward from the attachment member; and At least one and at most eight snap-fit ​​features, the at least one snap-fit ​​feature having a cantilever structure surrounded by a gap, the cantilever structure including a boss projecting upward from the snap-fit ​​feature; and The handle attachment section engages with at least one latch; Wherein, the handle attachment section is at least partially located inside the hollow interior of the handle; Wherein, at least one latch engages with the inner surface of the handle; and The at least one boss is positioned within the at least one hole or recess.

18. The razor of claim 17, further comprising a button having an upper surface generally opposite a lower surface, the button having an outer edge, the lower surface comprising: A guide member extending downward from the lower surface of the button, the guide member having a sloping surface; and A wall, which is spaced apart from the guide member; The channel is located between the wall and the guide member; The button is positioned within an opening on the handle and is configured to move between a rear region and a front region of the opening.

19. The razor according to claim 18, in, The connector further includes a pop-out surface located on the outer surface of the handle connection section; The retention mechanism further includes an arm extending from the retention mechanism, the arm having a spring-biased surface; The relative motion between the button and the spring-biased surface applies a force to the pop-out surface; When force is applied to the pop-out surface, the connector moves forward along the central axis to the outside of the hollow portion of the handle.

20. The razor according to claim 17, wherein, The sheet has a first end and a second end, which intersect to form a seam.

Images