Hair removal device

Abstract

The present invention provides a hair removal device that can more reliably prevent liquid from remaining in the non-waterproof space where the blade portion is partially exposed. [Solution] The hair removal device A comprises a main body D, a blade E provided on the main body D and capable of removing hair, and a motor 43 built into the main body D for driving the blade E. The main body D also has a waterproof space S3 in which the motor 43 is housed and the ingress of liquid is suppressed, and a non-waterproof space S6 in which the blade E is positioned with a portion exposed and the ingress of liquid is permitted. The main body D is equipped with a drying means 100 for drying the non-waterproof space S6, and the drying means 100 is equipped with a heat-generating member 101 that generates heat.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a hair removal device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as shown in the following Patent Document 1, an electric shaver (hair removal device) is known that includes a main body portion and a blade portion capable of removing hair, wherein the blade portion is disposed in a partially exposed state, and a non-waterproof space that allows liquid to enter is provided in the main body portion, so that the blade portion can be cleaned with a liquid such as water.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In such a hair removal device, it is preferable to be able to suppress liquid from remaining in the non-waterproof space where the blade portion is disposed in a partially exposed state.

[0005] Accordingly, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a hair removal device that can more reliably suppress liquid from remaining in the non-waterproof space where the blade portion is disposed in a partially exposed state.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] A hair removal device according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a main body, a blade provided on the main body and capable of removing hair, and a motor built into the main body for driving the blade, wherein the main body has a waterproof space in which the motor is housed and the ingress of liquid is suppressed, and a non-waterproof space in which the blade is arranged with a portion exposed and the ingress of liquid is permitted, and the main body is provided with a drying means for drying the non-waterproof space, and the drying means is provided with a heat-generating member that generates heat. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide a hair removal device that can more reliably prevent liquid from remaining in a non-waterproof space where the blade portion is partially exposed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of an electric razor, an example of a hair removal device, seen from the front and above. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view of an electric razor, seen from the lower rear side. [Figure 3] This is a front view of an electric razor. [Figure 4] This is a side view of an electric razor. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view from the top front of the device, with the blade protection cap removed from the main body. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view from the lower rear of the device, with the blade protection cap removed from the main body. [Figure 7] This diagram schematically shows the electric shaver device in the palm of the hand. [Figure 8] This diagram schematically shows how an electric shaver is held in the hand, as if cradling it in your hand. [Figure 9] This diagram schematically illustrates one example of how to use an electric razor. [Figure 10] This diagram schematically illustrates another example of how to use an electric razor. [Figure 11] This diagram shows a partially disassembled electric shaver, with the outer blade block removed from the casing, viewed from above on the front side. [Figure 12] This diagram shows a partially disassembled outer blade block, with the outer blade cassette removed from the upper base housing, viewed from above on the front side. [Figure 13] This diagram shows a partially disassembled electric shaver, with the base separated into the base body and the upper base housing, and the blade separated into the outer blade cassette and the slit inner blade, viewed from above on the front side. [Figure 14] This diagram shows the base unit partially disassembled, with the waterproof unit, switch button, and USB cap removed from the lower base housing, viewed from above on the front side. [Figure 15] This diagram shows the base unit partially disassembled, with the waterproof unit, switch button, and USB cap removed from the lower base housing, viewed from below on the rear side. [Figure 16] This is a perspective view of the waterproof unit, which has been disassembled into a lower unit and an upper unit, seen from above on the front side. [Figure 17] This is a perspective view of the waterproof unit, which has been disassembled into a lower unit and an upper unit, seen from the lower rear side. [Figure 18] This diagram shows a partially disassembled lower unit, a perspective view from above on the front side, with the internal components removed from the lower housing. [Figure 19] This diagram shows the lower unit partially disassembled, and is a perspective view from the lower rear side, with the internal components removed from the lower housing. [Figure 20] This is an exploded perspective view of the internal components of the lower unit, seen from the upper front. [Figure 21] This is an exploded perspective view of the internal components of the lower unit, seen from the lower rear side. [Figure 22] This is an exploded perspective view of the main circuit unit of the lower unit, seen from the upper front. [Figure 23] This is an exploded perspective view of the main circuit unit of the lower unit as viewed from the lower back side. [Figure 24] This is an exploded perspective view of the sub circuit unit of the lower unit as viewed from the upper front side. [Figure 25] This is an exploded perspective view of the sub circuit unit of the lower unit as viewed from the lower back side. [Figure 26] This is an exploded perspective view of the USB circuit unit of the lower unit as viewed from the upper front side. [Figure 27] This is an exploded perspective view of the USB circuit unit of the lower unit as viewed from the lower back side. [Figure 28] This is an exploded perspective view of the upper unit as viewed from the upper front side. [Figure 29] This is an exploded perspective view of the upper unit as viewed from the lower back side. [Figure 30] This is an exploded perspective view of the linear motor of the upper unit as viewed from the upper front side. [Figure 31] This is an exploded perspective view of the linear motor of the upper unit as viewed from the lower back side. [Figure 32] This is a side view showing the linear motor of the upper unit. [Figure 33] This is a diagram schematically showing an example of the charging method of the electric shaver. [Figure 34] This is an exploded perspective view of the blade protection cap as viewed from the upper front side. [Figure 35] This is an exploded perspective view of the blade protection cap as viewed from the lower back side. [Figure 36] This is a cross-sectional view of the electric shaver cut along a plane perpendicular to the front-rear direction. [Figure 37] This is a cross-sectional view of the electric shaver cut along a plane perpendicular to the width direction. [Figure 38] This is a cross-sectional view of the electric shaver with the battery removed, cut along a plane perpendicular to the front-rear direction. [Figure 39] This is a cross-sectional view of the electric shaver with the battery removed, cut along a plane perpendicular to the width direction. [Figure 40]This is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of the slit portion in Figure 37. [Figure 41] This diagram illustrates the relative positions of the center of gravity of the outer blade cassette, linear motor, and battery. [Figure 42] This is a perspective view showing an electric razor as a first modified example of a hair removal device. [Figure 43] This is an exploded view showing an electric razor as the first modified example of a hair removal device. [Figure 44] This is a perspective view showing an electric razor as a second variation of a hair removal device. [Figure 45] This is an exploded view showing an electric razor as a second modified example of a hair removal device. [Figure 46] This is a perspective view showing an electric razor as a third modified example of a hair removal device. [Figure 47] This is an exploded view showing an electric razor as a third modified example of a hair removal device. [Figure 48] This is a perspective view showing an electric razor as a fourth variation of a hair removal device. [Figure 49] This is an exploded view showing an electric razor as a fourth modified example of a hair removal device. [Figure 50] This is an exploded perspective view showing a first modified example of the drying method. [Figure 51] This is an exploded perspective view showing a second modified example of the drying method. [Figure 52] This is an exploded perspective view showing a third modified example of the drying method. [Figure 53] This is a perspective view showing a third modified example of the drying method. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, unnecessary details may be omitted. For example, detailed explanations of already well-known matters or redundant explanations of substantially identical configurations may be omitted.

[0010] The attached drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand this disclosure and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0011] Furthermore, in the following embodiments, an electric razor that cuts the user's beard (hair) is given as an example of a hair removal device. Furthermore, in the following embodiments, a small shaver that fits in the palm of the user's hand is given as an example of an electric razor that can be used while the main body is wrapped in the palm of the hand.

[0012] Furthermore, in the following embodiments, the direction in which the multiple blade blocks are arranged side by side will be described as the X direction (second direction: front-to-back direction: shaving direction), and the direction in which each blade block extends will be described as the Y direction (first direction: left-to-right direction: width direction).The vertical direction when the electric razor is positioned such that the blade portion is at the top and the main body portion is at the bottom will be described as the Z direction (up-down direction).

[0013] Furthermore, in the following embodiments, the side to which the USB cap is attached is defined as the rear side (rear in the X direction) of the electric shaver.

[0014] (Embodiment) As shown in Figures 1 to 6, the electric shaver (hair removal device) A according to this embodiment comprises a device body B having a base (main body) D and a blade E provided on the base D with a portion (skin contact surface 5a) exposed, capable of cutting (removing) beard (hair). The electric shaver A also includes a protective cap C that is detachably attached to the device body B to protect the blade E.

[0015] Thus, in this embodiment, when the electric shaver A is not in use, the protective cap C can be attached to the main body B of the device. This prevents the blade E from being exposed to the outside, thus protecting the blade E.

[0016] When using electric shaver A, as shown in Figures 7 to 10, the protective cap C is removed from the main body B of the device, exposing a portion of the blade E to the outside. This exposed portion of the blade E is then brought into contact with the user U's skin U1. In this way, the user U's beard (hair) is cut (removed).

[0017] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the blade E is driven using a linear motor (motor) 43 built into the base (main body) D. By placing the battery 34 in the base (main body) D, power is supplied from the battery 34 to the linear motor (motor) 43.

[0018] In this embodiment, the top and side walls of the electric razor A are designed to have a smooth, curved shape overall, with the central part bulging outwards.

[0019] Specifically, the outer surface C1a of the protective cap C is a curved surface that is convex upwards. In this embodiment, the radius of curvature of the top portion of the outer surface C1a is larger than the radius of curvature of the circumferential portion, so the top portion of the outer surface C1a is a curved surface that is close to a horizontal plane.

[0020] Furthermore, with the protective cap C attached to the main body B of the device, the circumferential surface portion of the outer surface C1a of the protective cap C and the outer surface D1a of the peripheral wall D1 of the base D are arranged to substantially coincide with a single, smoothly continuous curved surface. In other words, with the protective cap C attached to the main body B of the device, the circumferential surface portion of the outer surface C1a of the protective cap C and the outer surface D1a of the peripheral wall D1 of the base D each constitute a part of a single curved surface.

[0021] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the electric razor A is formed such that its length in the X direction (second direction: front-to-back direction: shaving direction) is short (thin), and its length in the Y direction (first direction: left-to-right direction: width direction) is long (wide).

[0022] Therefore, in this embodiment, with the protective cap C attached to the main body B of the device, a flat, curved body with a thin thickness in the X direction (front-to-back direction) is formed.

[0023] Furthermore, by shaping electric shaver A to the shape described above, the design (aesthetic appeal) of electric shaver A (device body B: base D) is enhanced.

[0024] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figures 36 to 39, the electric shaver A can be made to stand on its own (positioned with the blade E facing upwards without using any auxiliary members). Specifically, the bottom portion of the electric shaver A is prevented from bulging outwards, and at least a part of this bottom portion is brought into contact with the mounting surface 7a of a table or the like, so that the electric shaver A or the device body B can stand upright on the mounting surface 7a with the blade E facing upwards.

[0025] In this embodiment, the bottom surface of the electric shaver A is a concave curved surface that is recessed upwards, and by bringing the peripheral edge of the bottom surface of the electric shaver A into contact with the mounting surface 7a, the electric shaver A or the device body B can be placed upright on the mounting surface 7a.

[0026] As shown in Figure 7, the electric razor A or the device body B can also be positioned upright on the palm U21 of the user U with the blade E facing upwards.

[0027] Thus, the electric shaver A according to this embodiment has excellent design and can stand upright on the mounting surface 7a, so when the electric shaver A is not in use, it can be displayed as part of the room's interior decor.

[0028] For example, electric shaver A can be placed as a decorative item on a desk or other surface in the room. This way, if you want to use electric shaver A while working in the room, you don't have to go to the bathroom or other place where electric razors are typically stored, making it easier to use electric shaver A. And when you're finished using it, you can put it back on display as a decorative item in the room.

[0029] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 36, the device body B has a length in the Z direction (vertical direction) (height) L1 that is shorter than the length in the Y direction (width direction) (width) L2. In this way, the device body B is made wider in this embodiment. This allows the device body B to stand upright in a more stable state.

[0030] Furthermore, by reducing the height dimension of the device body B, as shown in Figure 8, when the lower end (bottom surface 111) of the base D is positioned opposite the palm U21 and the outer surface D1a of the peripheral wall D1 of the base D is grasped with the fingers U22, the fingertips can be brought closer to the skin contact surface 5a of the blade E.

[0031] Furthermore, by bringing the fingertips closer to the skin contact surface 5a of the blade E, when the lower end (bottom surface 111) of the base D is facing the palm U21 and the outer surface D1a of the peripheral wall D1 of the base D is grasped with the fingers U22, the base D can be grasped in a more stable position. In other words, even when using the electric razor A with the lower end (bottom surface 111) of the base D facing the palm U21 and the outer surface D1a of the peripheral wall D1 of the base D grasped with the fingers U22, the electric razor A can be used without shaking.

[0032] Thus, in this embodiment, even when the electric razor A is used with the base D wrapped around the hand U2 from the bottom side (as shown in Figure 8), it is possible to suppress deterioration of operability.

[0033] Therefore, with the electric shaver A according to this embodiment, it becomes possible to use the electric shaver A while holding the base D in various ways. For example, as shown in Figure 9, it is possible to use the electric shaver A while wrapping the base D with the hand U2 from the bottom side (with the lower end of the base D facing the palm U21 and grasping the outer surface D1a of the peripheral wall D1 of the base D with the fingers U22). Also, as shown in Figure 10, it is possible to use the electric shaver A while gripping the peripheral wall D1 of the base D with the palm U21 (with the palm U21 and fingers U22 in contact with the outer surface D1a of the peripheral wall D1 of the base D).

[0034] In this embodiment, the size of the base D is set such that when an average adult male holds the lower end (bottom surface 111) of the base D facing the palm U21 and grasps the outer surface D1a of the peripheral wall D1 of the base D with his fingers U22, his fingertips are positioned near the skin contact surface 5a of the blade E (base D).

[0035] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 41, the blade E, the linear motor 43, and the battery 34 are arranged in the Z direction (vertical direction). In this embodiment, the distance L4 from the center of gravity G3 of the battery 34 to the center of gravity G2 of the linear motor 43 is greater (longer) than the distance L3 from the center of gravity G1 of the blade E to the center of gravity G2 of the linear motor 43.

[0036] Furthermore, it is possible to make the distance L4 from the center of gravity G3 of the battery 34 to the center of gravity G2 of the linear motor 43 approximately the same as the distance L3 from the center of gravity G1 of the blade E to the center of gravity G2 of the linear motor 43. In this way, when the lower end (bottom surface 111) of the base D is facing the palm U21 and the peripheral wall 12 of the base D is grasped with the fingers U22, the center of gravity of the device body B can be positioned closer to the palm U21 than the fingertips. In other words, the base D can be grasped with the center of gravity of the device body B located within the hand U2.

[0037] Therefore, when using the electric shaver A with the base D wrapped around the hand U2, it becomes possible to more reliably suppress the shaking of the electric shaver A, and to more easily apply the blade E to the desired location. In other words, the operability of the electric shaver A (device body B) can be further improved.

[0038] Furthermore, it is possible to make the distance L4 from the center of gravity G3 of the battery 34 to the center of gravity G2 of the linear motor 43 smaller (shorter) than the distance L3 from the center of gravity G1 of the blade E to the center of gravity G2 of the linear motor 43. Doing so will further improve the operability of the electric shaver A (device body B). Also, by making the distance L4 from the center of gravity G3 of the battery 34 to the center of gravity G2 of the linear motor 43 as short as possible, it is possible to bring the center of gravity of the device body B closer to the blade E. Bringing the center of gravity of the device body B closer to the blade E in this way has the advantage of making the electric shaver A (device body B) easier to operate.

[0039] Next, we will describe the general configuration of the main body B of the device according to this embodiment.

[0040] As shown in Figures 11 and 13, the main body B of the apparatus according to this embodiment comprises a base D and a blade E provided on the base D that is capable of cutting whiskers.

[0041] Furthermore, the base D comprises a base body 1 having a lower base housing 10 that opens upward, and an upper base housing 15 that is detachably attached to the lower base housing 10 and capable of holding a part of the blade E (outer blade cassette 50). The lower base housing 10 and the upper base housing 15 can be formed using materials such as synthetic resin or metal.

[0042] In this embodiment, the lower base housing 10 is a bottomed cylindrical shape with an upward opening and is provided with a peripheral wall 12. The peripheral wall 12 is formed such that its outer surface 12a is a curved surface that is convex outwards. On the other hand, the upper base housing 15 is a cylindrical shape that penetrates vertically and is provided with a peripheral wall 151 that forms an upper opening 15a and a lower opening 15b. The peripheral wall 151 is also formed such that its outer surface 151a is a curved surface that is convex outwards.

[0043] Furthermore, in this embodiment, with the upper base housing 15 attached to the lower base housing 10, the outer surface 12a of the peripheral wall 12 of the lower base housing 10 and the outer surface 151a of the peripheral wall 151 of the upper base housing 15 substantially coincide with a single smoothly continuous curved surface. That is, with the upper base housing 15 attached to the lower base housing 10, the outer surface 12a of the peripheral wall 12 of the lower base housing 10 and the outer surface 151a of the peripheral wall 151 of the upper base housing 15 each constitute a part of a single curved surface.

[0044] Furthermore, the outer surface D1a of the peripheral wall D1 of the base D is formed by the outer surface 12a of the peripheral wall 12 of the lower base housing 10 and the outer surface 151a of the peripheral wall 151 of the upper base housing 15.

[0045] Thus, in this embodiment, the external appearance (shape of the outer surface D1a) of the peripheral wall D1 of the base D is made to have a smoothly curved shape that bulges in the center as a whole. This makes the external shape of the base D easy to grasp with the hand U2.

[0046] Specifically, in this embodiment, the user U can grasp the electric shaver A or the device body B with their hand U2 by grasping the outer surface D1a of the peripheral wall D1 of the base D with their fingers U22. Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figures 1 to 6, the outer surface D1a of the peripheral wall D1 of the base D is a grip portion (holding portion) D1b that the user U can grasp with their hand U2 when using the electric shaver A (or the device body B).

[0047] In this embodiment, as described above, the electric razor A or the device body B can be held with the hand U2 by gripping the outer surface D1a of the peripheral wall D1 of the base D with the fingers U22 while the lower end side (bottom surface 111) of the base D is facing the palm U21. The size of the base D is set so that when held with the hand of an average adult male, the fingertips are positioned near the skin contact surface 5a of the blade E (base D).

[0048] Therefore, when an average adult male holds the electric shaver A or the device body B with his hand U2, he will grasp the upward and inward sloping portion of the outer surface D1a with his fingers U22. Specifically, he will grasp the upward and inward sloping portion on one side of the outer surface D1a in the X direction (second direction: front-back direction: shaving direction) with his thumb, and the upward and inward sloping portion on the other side in the X direction with the fingers other than his thumb. In this way, when the lower end side (bottom surface 111) of the base D is facing the palm U21 and the outer surface D1a of the peripheral wall D1 of the base D is grasped with fingers U22, the upward and inward sloping portions of the outer surface D1a on both sides in the X direction will be grasped by pinching them between the thumb and the other fingers.

[0049] This way, user U will grasp the base D in a way that applies force to move the electric shaver A or the device body B toward the palm U21. Therefore, for example, even if the user grips the electric shaver A or the device body B with great force between their thumb and other fingers while using it, the base D (electric shaver A or device body B) will be moved toward the palm U21, thus maintaining the base D in the palm U21.

[0050] Thus, in this embodiment, the external shape of the base D is designed to prevent the electric razor A or the device body B from falling from the hand U2, making it easier to grip with the hand U2.

[0051] In this embodiment, the overall design (aesthetic appeal) of the electric shaver A (device body B: base D) can be enhanced by making the external shape of the base D (the outer surface shape of the peripheral wall portion of the base D) a smoothly curved shape.

[0052] Furthermore, a cavity is formed inside the lower base housing 10, and various electrical components such as the battery 34 are housed within this cavity formed inside the lower base housing 10.

[0053] In this embodiment, the base body 1 is equipped with a waterproof unit 2, and various electrical components such as a battery 34 are housed in a waterproof space (waterproof space) S3 formed inside the waterproof unit 2. By placing this waterproof unit 2 in a cavity formed inside the lower base housing 10, various electrical components such as a battery 34 are housed in the cavity formed inside the lower base housing 10. In this way, the device body B (electric shaver A) is given a waterproof function.

[0054] On the other hand, the blade portion E is detachably held to the peripheral wall 151 of the upper base housing 15. In this embodiment, a blade unit 5 having the blade portion E is formed, and this blade unit 5 is detachably attached to the peripheral wall 151 of the upper base housing 15, so that the blade portion E is detachably held to the peripheral wall 151 of the upper base housing 15. At this time, the blade unit 5 is held to the peripheral wall 151 of the upper base housing 15 with a part of the blade portion E exposed to the outside. In this way, the portion of the blade portion E that is exposed to the outside of the peripheral wall 151 of the upper base housing 15 functions as a skin contact surface 5a that comes into contact with the skin U1 of the user U, etc. when the electric razor (hair removal device) A is in use (when the device body B is in use).

[0055] Next, we will describe the specific configuration of the blade unit 5.

[0056] As shown in Figures 11 to 13, the blade unit 5 comprises five blade blocks and an outer blade case 54, with the five blade blocks arranged in the X direction with their longitudinal directions aligned with the Y direction.

[0057] Thus, in this embodiment, each blade block has a predetermined length and width, and these blade blocks are arranged such that their length direction substantially coincides with the Y direction (first direction: left-right direction) of the electric shaver A, while their width direction substantially coincides with the X direction (second direction: front-back direction: shaving direction) of the electric shaver A.

[0058] In this embodiment, the five blade blocks consist of two net blade blocks 51, two finishing net blade blocks 52, and one slit blade block 53.

[0059] The net blade block 51 is primarily designed to remove beards (body hairs) that are lying flat or short and standing upright. The finishing net blade block 52 is primarily designed for a close shave, primarily for trimming beards (body hairs) to a short length. The slit blade block 53 is primarily designed to remove thin, long beards (body hairs).

[0060] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 11, one slit blade block 53 is positioned in the center in the X direction, and two net blade blocks 51 are positioned on either side of the slit blade block 53. Two finishing net blade blocks 52 are positioned next to each net blade block 51. That is, the two finishing net blade blocks 52 are positioned at both ends in the X direction, with the two net blade blocks 51 and the one slit blade block 53 sandwiched between them.

[0061] As shown in Figure 13, the net blade block 51 comprises a net blade 511 and an inner net blade 512. In this embodiment, the net blade 511 is formed in an inverted U-shape, curved so that the upper part is convex when viewed from the side (along the Y direction).

[0062] Furthermore, the net blade 511 is formed with a slight curve along the Y direction (outer blade length direction) such that it is convex upwards when viewed from the front (viewed along the X direction). In addition, numerous circular cutting holes (not shown) are formed in this net blade 511. It is also possible to configure the net blade 511 not to be curved so that it is convex upwards when viewed from the front. For example, when the net blade 511 is viewed from the front (viewed along the X direction), the top of the net blade 511 can be made to be a straight line extending in the Y direction (outer blade length direction).

[0063] The inner net blades 512 are in an inverted U shape that follows the curved shape of the net blade 511, and are positioned inside the net blade 511 (on the underside of the net blade 511: opposite to the side of the net blade 511 that contacts the skin). As shown in Figure 37, these two inner net blades 512 are detachably mounted on a pair of drive elements 4324. At this time, the two inner net blades 512 are detachably mounted on the pair of drive elements 4324 while biased upward. When the power of the electric shaver A is turned on and the drive elements 4324 are driven with the inner net blades 512 mounted on the drive elements 4324 and positioned inside the net blade 511, the inner net blades 512 slide against the inner surface of the net blade 511 and are displaced relative to the net blade 511 (relative movement: reciprocating in the Y direction).

[0064] As shown in Figure 37, the finishing net blade block 52 comprises a finishing net blade 521 and a finishing net inner blade 522. In this embodiment, the finishing net blade 521 is formed in an inverted U-shape, curved so that the upper part is convex when viewed from the side (along the Y direction).

[0065] Furthermore, the finishing net blade 521 is formed with a slight curve along the Y direction (outer blade length direction) such that it is convex upwards when viewed from the front (viewed along the X direction). In addition, numerous circular cutting holes (not shown) are formed in this finishing net blade 521. It is also possible to configure the finishing net blade 521 not to be curved so that it is convex upwards when viewed from the front. For example, when the finishing net blade 521 is viewed from the front (viewed along the X direction), the top of the finishing net blade 521 can be made to be a straight line extending in the Y direction (outer blade length direction).

[0066] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the blade width of the finishing net blade 521 in the X direction (front-to-back direction) is made smaller than the blade width of the net blade 511 in the X direction (front-to-back direction). By making the blade width of the finishing net blade 521 smaller than that of the net blade 511, that is, by making the radius of curvature of the finishing net blade 521 smaller, the skin pressed against the surface is made to protrude significantly inward from the blade holes, allowing for a shorter shave.

[0067] The finishing net inner blades 522 are in an inverted U shape that follows the curved shape of the finishing net blade 521, and are positioned inside the finishing net blade 521 (on the underside of the finishing net blade 521: opposite to the side of the finishing net blade 521 that contacts the skin). As shown in Figure 37, these two finishing net inner blades 522 are detachably mounted on drive pins 4326 and 4327, which are connected to a pair of drive elements 4324. At this time, the two finishing net inner blades 522 are detachably mounted on the drive pins 4326 and 4327 while biased upward. Then, with the finishing net inner blade 522 attached to the drive pins 4326 and 4327 respectively and positioned inside the finishing net blade 521, the power of the electric razor A is turned on and the drive pins 4326 and 4327 are driven, causing the finishing net inner blade 522 to slide against the inner surface of the finishing net blade 521 and to be displaced relative to the finishing net blade 521 (relative movement: reciprocating in the Y direction).

[0068] As shown in Figure 37, the slit blade block 53 includes a slit outer blade 531 and a slit inner blade 532. In this embodiment, the slit outer blade 531 is formed by bending into an inverted U-shape so that the upper part is convex when viewed from the side (along the Y direction). That is, the slit outer blade 531 has a substantially flat top surface.

[0069] Furthermore, the slit outer blade 531 is formed with a slight curve along the Y direction (outer blade length direction) such that it is convex upwards when viewed from the front (viewed along the X direction). Multiple slit-shaped cutting holes extending in the X direction are formed on this slit outer blade 531, spaced apart in the Y direction. It is also possible to configure the slit outer blade 531 not to be curved so that it is convex upwards when viewed from the front. For example, when viewed from the front (viewed along the X direction), it is possible to make the top of the slit outer blade 531 a straight line extending in the Y direction (outer blade length direction). In other words, it is possible to form the slit outer blade 531 so that its top surface is a flat surface.

[0070] The slit inner blade 532 has an inverted U-shape that follows the curved shape of the slit outer blade 531 and is positioned inside the slit outer blade 531 (below the slit outer blade 531: on the opposite side from the side that contacts the skin). As shown in Figure 37, the slit inner blade 532 is detachably mounted on a drive unit 4325 (a drive unit other than the one to which the net inner blade 512 is mounted) which is connected to one of the pair of drive units 4324. At this time, the slit inner blade 532 is detachably mounted on the drive unit 4325 (a drive unit other than the one to which the net inner blade 512 is mounted) while biased upward. Then, with the inner slit blade 532 mounted on the drive unit 4325 and positioned inside the outer slit blade 531, when the power to the electric razor A is turned on and the drive unit 4325 is driven, the inner slit blade 532 slides against the inner surface of the outer slit blade 531 and is displaced relative to the outer slit blade 531 (relative movement: reciprocating in the Y direction).

[0071] Thus, the electric razor A according to this embodiment has the configuration of a reciprocating electric razor in which the net inner blade 512, finishing net inner blade 522, and slit inner blade 532 are moved back and forth relative to the net blade 511, finishing net blade 521, and slit outer blade 531. Therefore, in this embodiment, the blade section E comprises five outer blades (two net blades 511, two finishing net blades 521, and one slit outer blade 531) and five inner blades (two net inner blades 512, two finishing net inner blades 522, and one slit inner blade 532).

[0072] In this embodiment, all components except for the two net inner blades 512 of the five blade blocks are mounted in a roughly frame-shaped outer blade case 54. At this time, each component may be mounted in the outer blade case 54 in a manner that prevents it from being detached, or it may be mounted in the outer blade case 54 in a manner that prevents it from being detached. Alternatively, all components (five blade blocks), including the two net inner blades 512, may be mounted in the roughly frame-shaped outer blade case 54.

[0073] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the two net blade blocks 51, the two finishing net blade blocks 52, and the one slit blade block 53 are mounted in the outer blade case 54 in a state that allows them to float in the Z direction (vertical direction). This ensures that when the upper base housing 15, to which the outer blade cassette 50 is mounted, is attached to the base body 1, each blade block floats separately and independently relative to the base body 1. It is also possible to configure the system so that one or more of the two net blade blocks 51, the two finishing net blade blocks 52, and the one slit blade block 53 do not float in the Z direction (vertical direction).

[0074] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the finishing net blade block 52 is equipped with a roller 523 as a skin guard member, and the roller 523 is positioned between the net blade 511 and the finishing net blade 521. When using the device body B, by making sure that this roller 523 comes into contact with the skin U1, it is possible to effectively prevent the skin U1 from being pressed too hard against the finishing net blade 521, which has a small radius of curvature.

[0075] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figures 11 and 13, the two net blades 511 can be mounted in the outer blade case 54 without the net inner blades 512 positioned inside them. On the other hand, as shown in Figures 13 and 37, the two finishing net blades 521 can be mounted in the outer blade case 54 with the finishing net inner blades 522 positioned inside them, and the one slit outer blade 531 can be mounted in the outer blade case 54 with the slit inner blades 532 positioned inside it. In this way, in this embodiment, the outer blade cassette 50 is formed by mounting the two net blades 511, the two finishing net blade blocks 52, and the one slit blade block 53 in the outer blade case 54. This outer blade cassette 50 is then detachably mounted in the upper base housing 15.

[0076] Specifically, as shown in Figures 11 to 13, the upper base housing 15 is provided with a substantially cylindrical peripheral wall 151 having an upper opening 15a and a lower opening 15b. The outer blade cassette 50, with each outer blade facing upward, is inserted into the upper base housing 15 from the lower opening 15b side, thereby mounting the outer blade cassette 50 to the upper base housing 15. At this time, the outer blade cassette 50 is mounted to the upper base housing 15 with the surface of each outer blade exposed from the upper opening 15a of the upper base housing 15. Therefore, in this embodiment, the portion of the surface of each outer blade exposed from the upper opening 15a of the upper base housing 15 is the portion exposed to the outside of the base D of the blade E. That is, the portion of the surface of each outer blade exposed from the upper opening 15a of the upper base housing 15 is the skin contact surface 5a that comes into contact with the user U's skin (skin surface) U1.

[0077] Furthermore, release buttons 541 are formed on both the left and right ends of the outer blade case 54, and by operating these release buttons 541, the attachment between the upper base housing 15 and the outer blade cassette 50 is released.

[0078] Specifically, the release button 541 includes an elastic piece 5411 that extends outward and downward in the Y direction from the main body of the outer blade case 54 and is elastically deformable in the Y direction, an engagement hole 5412 formed in the center of the elastic piece 5411 so as to penetrate in the Y direction, and an operating part 5413 formed to protrude outward in the Y direction from the lower end of the elastic piece 5411.

[0079] Furthermore, the peripheral wall 151 of the upper base housing 15 comprises a front wall 1511, a rear wall 1512, and a pair of side walls 1513 connecting the front wall 1511 and the rear wall 1512. A downward-opening notch 15131 is formed at the lower end of the central part in the X direction of each of the pair of side walls 1513.

[0080] Furthermore, at the lower end of the central portion in the X direction of each of the pair of side walls 1513, an engaging projection 15132 is formed, which protrudes inward in the Y direction and detachably engages with the engaging hole 5412.

[0081] In this way, when the outer blade cassette 50 is inserted from the lower opening 15b side of the upper base housing 15, the tip of the engaging projection 15132 that protrudes inward from the upper base housing 15 engages with the engaging hole 5412 of the elastic piece 5411 of the outer blade case 54 from the outside. At this time, as shown in Figure 36, the operating part 5413 is housed in the notch 15131 with its tip protruding outward in the Y direction from the outer surface 151a of the peripheral wall 151.

[0082] In this embodiment, the operating portion 5413 of the release button 541 is positioned so that its tip protrudes outward from the outer surface (outer surface 151a of the peripheral wall 151) of the upper base housing 15 when the outer blade cassette 50 is mounted on the upper base housing 15. Therefore, by grasping the operating portion 5413 of the release button 541 from both sides and pushing it inward, thereby bending the elastic piece 5411 inward, the engagement between the engaging projection 15132 and the engaging hole 5412 is released, allowing the outer blade cassette 50 to be removed from the upper base housing 15.

[0083] As described above, in this embodiment, the upper base housing 15, to which the outer blade cassette 50 is mounted, is attached to the base body 1 with the two net inner blades 512 each mounted on the drive elements 4324 that protrude upward from the base body 1. When the upper base housing 15, to which the outer blade cassette 50 is mounted, is attached to the base body 1 with the two net inner blades 512 each mounted on the drive elements 4324, the two net inner blades 512 are positioned inside the corresponding net blades 511.

[0084] In other words, in this embodiment, the housing B1 is formed by attaching the two net inner blades 512 to the drive elements 4324 that protrude above the base body 1. The outer blade cassette 50 is attached to the upper base housing 15 to form the outer blade block B2. The device body B is then formed by detachably attaching this outer blade block B2 to the housing B1.

[0085] In this embodiment, release buttons 44 are formed on both the left and right ends of the base body 1, and by operating this pair of release buttons 44, the mounting between the housing B1 and the outer blade block B2 is released.

[0086] Specifically, as shown in Figures 28 and 29, each release button 44 comprises a main body 441, a shaft 442 formed in the inner center of the main body so as to protrude inward in the Y direction (width direction), and a coil spring 443 inserted into the shaft 442 to bias the main body 441 outward in the Y direction (width direction).

[0087] As shown in Figures 28, 29, and 36, each release button 44 has a main body 441 formed so as to protrude upward, and each pair of side walls 1513 has an engagement hook 15133 formed at the lower end of the center portion in the X direction, which protrudes inward in the Y direction and detachably engages with the engagement hook 4411. In this embodiment, the hook portion 44111 of the engagement hook 4411 is formed to protrude outward in the Y direction (width direction), and the engagement hook 15133 is formed to protrude inward in the Y direction (width direction). By biasing the main body 441 outward in the Y direction (width direction) with a coil spring 443, the engagement hook 4411 and the engagement hook 15133 can be engaged more firmly.

[0088] Furthermore, in this embodiment, with the coil spring 443 inserted into the shaft portion 442, the tip of the coil spring 443 is brought into contact with the spring receiving portion 41232 formed on the side wall 4123 of the upper housing 41, while the main body portion 441 is held in place by the attachment / detachment button holding portion 41231 formed on the side wall 4123 of the upper housing 41, in a position where it can be extended and retracted while biased in the Y direction (width direction). The operating portion of the main body portion 441 is then inserted into the notch 1231 formed on the side wall 123 of the lower base housing 10.

[0089] In this way, release buttons 44 are attached to both the left and right ends of the base body 1 in a manner that allows them to be extended and retracted in the Y direction (width direction) while the main body 441 is biased outward in the Y direction (width direction) by the coil spring 443.

[0090] Then, with the two net inner blades 512 positioned inside the corresponding net blades 511, the two finishing net inner blades 522 mounted on the drive pins 4326 and 4327 respectively, and the one slit inner blade 532 mounted on the drive element 4325, the outer blade block B2 is placed over the housing B1 from above. At this point, the hook portion 44111 of the engaging hook 4411 is pushed by the engaging hook 15133, causing the main body 441, which is biased outward in the Y direction (width direction), to move inward in the Y direction (width direction) against the biasing force of the coil spring 443. At this time, the engaging hook 4411 (hook portion 44111) integrally formed with the main body 441 also moves inward in the Y direction (width direction) together with the main body 441. Then, in this state, when the outer blade block B2 is pushed further toward the housing B1, the engaging hook 15133 moves below the hook portion 44111 of the engaging hook 4411, and the engaging hook 15133 and the hook portion 44111 engage. At this time, the hook portion 44111 engages with the engaging hook 15133 while being biased outward in the Y direction (width direction) by the coil spring 443. In this way, the outer blade block B2 is mounted to the housing B1.

[0091] Furthermore, with the outer blade block B2 attached to the housing B1, the main body 441 of the release button 44 is grasped from both sides and pushed inward, thereby moving the engagement hook 4411 (hook portion 44111) inward in the Y direction (width direction) together with the main body 441, and the engagement between the engagement hook 15133 and the hook portion 44111 is released, allowing the outer blade block B2 to be removed from the housing B1.

[0092] In this embodiment, the outer blade block B2 can be removed from the housing B1 with the two net inner blades 512 attached to the pair of drive elements 4324. Furthermore, the two net inner blades 512 are detachably attached to the pair of drive elements 4324 while biased upward. This way, when the release button 44 is operated to release the engagement between the engagement hook 15133 and the hook portion 44111, the outer blade block B2 is pushed upward by the biasing force of the two net inner blades 512, allowing the outer blade block B2 to be smoothly removed from the housing B1.

[0093] Furthermore, if all blade blocks (all outer blades and all inner blades) are mounted in the outer blade case, it is preferable to provide a spring-up mechanism by interposing one or more (one or more sets) of upward-pushing members between the housing and the outer blade case. Examples of upward-pushing members that can be used to push up the outer blade case include biasing means such as coil springs, and sets of magnets that generate magnetic repulsion (a pair of magnets arranged so that like poles face each other). By providing a spring-up mechanism between the housing and the outer blade case in this way, even when the outer blade block is formed by mounting all blade blocks (all outer blades and all inner blades) in the outer blade case, the outer blade block can be smoothly removed from the housing.

[0094] When the power to the main unit B (electric razor A) is turned on, each inner blade is displaced relative to the corresponding outer blade (relative movement: reciprocating motion in the Y direction).

[0095] In this way, with the outer blade block B2 mounted on the housing B1, the power to the main unit B (electric razor A) is turned on, and with each inner blade displaced relative to the corresponding outer blade, the skin contact surface 5a of the blade unit 5 is placed against the user U's skin (skin surface) U1 and moved while sliding in the X direction, so that the beard (hair) inserted into the blade hole of each outer blade is cut by the outer blade and the inner blade.

[0096] Furthermore, when the outer blade block B2 is attached to the housing B1 and the main unit B of the device is assembled, a space is formed inside the outer blade block B2, allowing the whiskers (hairs) cut by the outer and inner blades to accumulate in this space.

[0097] Thus, in this embodiment, by using a reciprocating electric razor A, it is possible to reduce the size in the front-to-back direction (depth direction: direction of reciprocating motion of the inner blade) while securing a large area for cutting beard (hair).

[0098] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the skin contact surface 5a of the blade portion E is composed of the surfaces (outer surfaces) of the outer blades of multiple blade blocks, and as a whole, it can be approximated as a curved surface that is convex outward.

[0099] When the device body B is standing upright, the point that protrudes furthest outward from the curved surface approximating the skin contact surface 5a of the blade E is located at the top, and the tangent plane at the point that protrudes furthest outward from the curved surface approximating the skin contact surface 5a of the blade E becomes a horizontal plane.

[0100] Thus, in this embodiment, the device body B is positioned such that the blade portion E is at the top and the base portion D is at the bottom, while the extending direction of the base portion D is made to substantially coincide with the vertical direction, so that the skin contact surface 5a of the blade portion E is exposed upward. Therefore, when the device body B is positioned such that the blade portion E is at the top and the base portion D is at the bottom, while the extending direction of the base portion D is made to substantially coincide with the vertical direction, each inner blade will reciprocate linearly in the horizontal direction relative to the corresponding outer blade.

[0101] Therefore, in this embodiment, when the device body B is positioned such that the blade portion E is at the top and the base portion D is at the bottom, and the extending direction of the base portion D is made to substantially coincide with the vertical direction, the driving surface of the inner blade becomes a surface substantially parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0102] Furthermore, it is also possible to position the device body B such that the blade portion E is at the top and the base portion D is at the bottom, while aligning the extension direction of the base portion D to approximately coincide with the vertical direction, and inclining the skin contact surface 5a with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0103] For example, by positioning the device body B such that the blade E is at the top and the base D is at the bottom, and aligning the extension direction of the base D to roughly coincide with the vertical direction, it is possible to configure the blade E so that the part that contacts the skin U1 (skin contact surface 5a) is inclined forward and downward with respect to the horizontal plane. In this way, when using the device body B (electric razor A) with the base D wrapped around the hand U2 from the bottom side, it becomes easier to apply the skin contact surface 5a to the user's skin U1.

[0104] Furthermore, such a configuration can be formed by directly attaching the blade portion E to the base portion (main body portion) D, or by having the base portion D have a head portion and attaching the blade portion E to this head portion.

[0105] Next, we will describe the specific configuration of the base body 1, which has a waterproof function.

[0106] In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 14 and 15, the base body 1 comprises a lower base housing 10 and a waterproof unit 2 disposed within the cavity of the lower base housing 10.

[0107] In this embodiment, the lower base housing 10 comprises a rectangular plate-shaped bottom wall 11 with rounded corners and a peripheral wall 12 that extends upward from the outer peripheral edge of the bottom wall 11. The shape of the lower base housing 10 is a rectangular bottomed cylinder with rounded corners.

[0108] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 15, a through hole 112 is formed in the center of the Y direction (width direction) at the front end of the bottom wall 11 in the X direction (front-to-back direction), and this through hole 112 is covered by a switch button (operator) 13.

[0109] In this embodiment, the switch button 13 is mounted on the bottom wall 11 so that it can move in the direction of penetration of the through hole 112 (the thickness direction of the bottom wall 11). By pressing this switch button 13, the power of the device body B (electric shaver A) can be switched on and off.

[0110] In this embodiment, a switch button (operator) 13 capable of switching the power on and off is formed on the bottom wall 11 of the base D when the blade E is positioned at the top and the base D is positioned at the bottom.

[0111] This makes it more reliable to prevent accidentally operating the switch button 13 while gripping the peripheral wall D1 of the base D.

[0112] In this embodiment, a push-button switch 13 is shown as an example of an operator for switching the power on and off, but other operators can also be used. For example, mechanical switches such as slide-type operators, electrostatic sensors, pressure-sensitive sensors, and other types of switches can be used.

[0113] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the bottom wall 11 has a curved shape that is convex upward, as shown in Figures 36 to 40, and the bottom surface 111 is a concave curved surface that is convex upward. When the device body B (electric razor A) is placed on the mounting surface 7a with the bottom wall 11 facing downward, only the peripheral edge 111a of the bottom surface 111 contacts the mounting surface 7a.

[0114] In this way, as shown in Figures 36 to 40, when the device body B (electric shaver A) is placed on the mounting surface 7a with the bottom wall 11 facing downwards, a second space S2 is formed between the bottom surface 111 (bottom wall 11) and the mounting surface 7a. This second space S2 is the space defined by the bottom surface 111 and the mounting surface 7a when the device body B (electric shaver A) is placed on the mounting surface 7a with the bottom wall 11 facing downwards.

[0115] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the switch button 13 is attached to the bottom wall 11 without being pressed inward, the outer surface 131 of the switch button 13 is made substantially flush with the bottom surface 111. This ensures that when the device body B (electric shaver A) is placed on the mounting surface 7a, a gap is formed between the outer surface 131 and the mounting surface 7a.

[0116] This makes it possible to more reliably prevent the outer surface 131 of the switch button (operator) 13 from interfering with the mounting surface 7a when the device body B (electric shaver A) is placed on the mounting surface 7a. In other words, it makes it possible to more reliably prevent the switch button (operator) 13 from being operated by the mounting surface 7a when the device body B (electric shaver A) is placed on the mounting surface 7a.

[0117] Thus, in this embodiment, it is possible to suppress the power being switched on and off while the peripheral wall D1 of the base D is being gripped, and also to suppress the power being switched on and off while the device body B (electric razor A) is placed on the mounting surface 7a. In other words, it is possible to more reliably suppress the unintentional operation of the switch button (operator) 13.

[0118] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the second space S2 formed between the bottom surface 111 (bottom wall 11) and the mounting surface 7a is made to be an open space. Specifically, as shown in Figure 40, a notch 114 is formed in the bottom wall 11 so as to divide the peripheral edge 111a, so that when the device body B (electric shaver A) is placed on the mounting surface 7a, the second space S2 communicates with the outside space through a communication hole S2a defined by the notch 114 and the mounting surface 7a. In this way, the second space S2 is made to be an open space. In this embodiment, a configuration in which the communication hole S2a communicates with the discharge port S4a is illustrated from the viewpoint of design, but the configuration is not limited to this. For example, the communication hole S2a may be formed in only one place that does not communicate with the discharge port S4a. Alternatively, the communication hole S2a may be formed in two or more places. In this case, the device may or may not have a communication hole S2a that communicates with the outlet S4a.

[0119] In this way, by making the second space S2 an open space, the drying performance of the device body B (electric shaver A) can be further improved. For example, even if the device body B (electric shaver A) is placed on the mounting surface 7a with liquid such as water adhering to the bottom wall 11, the bottom wall 11 can be dried more quickly.

[0120] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a through-hole (press-fit hole) 113 is formed on one side of the through-hole 112 in the Y direction (width direction) of the bottom wall 11, and this through-hole (press-fit hole) 113 communicates with the press-fit hole 3112 formed in the bottom wall 311 of the lower housing 31 of the waterproof unit 2 when the waterproof unit 2 is placed in the cavity of the lower base housing 10.

[0121] Then, while positioning the waterproof unit 2 within the cavity of the lower base housing 10, the through-hole (press-fit hole) 113 and the press-fit hole 3112 are connected, and the rivet (press-fit member) 91 is pressed into the through-hole (press-fit hole) 113 and the press-fit hole 3112 from below, thereby fixing the waterproof unit 2 to the lower base housing 10.

[0122] Furthermore, in this embodiment, ribs 120 with screw holes 120a are formed at the four corners inside the peripheral wall 12. When the waterproof unit 2 is placed inside the cavity of the lower base housing 10, these screw holes 120a communicate with the screw holes 41241 formed in the flange portion 4124 of the upper housing 41 of the waterproof unit 2 (described later) and the screw holes 4211 formed in the top wall body 421 of the top wall 42.

[0123] Then, while positioning the waterproof unit 2 within the cavity of the lower base housing 10, the screw 92 is inserted from above into the screw holes 4211, 41241 and 120a, with the screw hole 120a communicating with the screw holes 41241 and 4211, thereby fixing the waterproof unit 2 to the lower base housing 10.

[0124] Furthermore, the peripheral wall 12 includes a front wall 121, a rear wall 122, and a pair of side walls 123 connecting the front wall 121 and the rear wall 122.

[0125] Furthermore, a through hole 1211 is formed in the center of the Y-direction (width direction) at the lower end of the front wall 121. In this embodiment, as described above, the external appearance (shape of the outer surface D1a) of the peripheral wall D1 of the base D is such that the overall shape is smoothly curved with a bulge in the center. Therefore, the lower end of the front wall 121 is an inclined surface that slopes downward and inward, and the through hole 1211 is located in front of the front end of the bottom wall 11. Consequently, as shown in Figure 37, the through hole 1211 can be positioned facing the mounting surface 7a without being obstructed by the bottom wall 11 when the device body B (electric razor A) is placed on the mounting surface 7a.

[0126] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 37, the tip of the light guide (display unit) 323 is inserted into the through hole 1211.

[0127] As described above, in this embodiment, with the blade portion E positioned at the top and the base portion D at the bottom, a light guide portion (display portion) 323 is formed at the connection point between the peripheral wall 12 of the base portion D and the bottom wall 11. This light guide portion (display portion) 323 is provided to inform the user U, etc., of the status of the device body B. For example, the color of the light emitted and the method of light emission (for example, constant illumination, flashing, etc.) can be used to inform the user U, etc., that the device body B is powered on, that the battery 34 is being charged, etc.

[0128] Furthermore, if the light guide (display section) 323 is formed at the connection point between the peripheral wall 12 of the base D and the bottom wall 11, the light guide (display section) 323 will be formed in a less conspicuous part of the base D. Therefore, the aesthetic design of the device body B (electric shaver A) will be improved while the light guide (display section) 323 will still be visible.

[0129] For example, when the light guide unit (display unit) 323 is illuminated and the device body B (electric shaver A) is placed on the mounting surface 7a, the light emitted from the light guide unit (display unit) 323 is reflected off the mounting surface 7a. As a result, the user U can check the status of the device body B by observing this reflected light. Furthermore, when the light guide unit (display unit) 323 is not emitting light, it becomes less conspicuous. This helps to prevent the electric shaver A from looking unsightly, for example, when it is displayed as part of the room's interior decor.

[0130] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a light guide unit (display unit) 323 is formed near the switch button (operator) 13. This makes it easy to see the light emitted from the light guide unit (display unit) 323 to the outside when the switch button (operator) 13 is operated. In other words, it makes it easier to confirm the operating status (powered state, etc.) of the switch button (operator) 13.

[0131] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a through-hole 1221 is formed in the center of the rear wall 122, allowing the USB terminal (charging section) 3332, which will be described later, to be exposed to the outside. The base body 1 is held in place by a USB cap 14 that can open and close the through-hole 1221, and is secured to prevent it from coming off. When the through-hole 1221 is closed with this USB cap 14, the USB terminal (charging section) 3332 can be protected in a waterproof state by the USB cap 14.

[0132] Specifically, the USB cap 14 comprises a cap body 141 that can open and close the through hole 1221, and a connecting piece 142 connected to the cap body 141. Furthermore, a waterproof cover 1412 is formed inside the cap body 141, into which the tip of the USB terminal (charging part) 3332 can be inserted and the USB terminal (charging part) 3332 can be sealed.

[0133] When the cap body 141 is in a manner that allows it to open and close the through hole 1221, the tip of the USB terminal (charging section) 3332 is inserted into the waterproof cover 1412, so that the USB terminal (charging section) 3332 is sealed by the waterproof cover 1412. In this way, the USB cap 14 protects the USB terminal (charging section) 3332 in a waterproof state.

[0134] In this embodiment, a retaining hook 1421 is formed at the tip of the connecting piece 142 so as to protrude forward, and the USB cap 14 is held on the base body 1 when this hook 1421 is housed in a receiving recess 31221 formed in the rear wall 3122 of the lower housing 31. As shown in Figure 37, when the waterproof unit 2 is placed in the cavity of the lower base housing 10, the opening formed above the receiving recess 31221 is narrowed by the rear wall 3122 of the lower housing 31 and the rear wall 122 of the lower base housing 10. In this embodiment, the opening formed above the receiving recess 31221 is formed to be slightly wider than the thickness of the connecting piece 142. This allows the connecting piece 142 to be moved up and down, but prevents the hook 1421 from being moved above the housing recess 31221, and ensures that the USB cap 14, which can open and close the through hole 1221, is held in place on the base body 1 in a way that prevents it from coming off.

[0135] Furthermore, in this embodiment, with the cap body 141 blocking the through hole 1221, the outer surface 1411 of the cap body 141 is made substantially flush with the outer surface 12a of the peripheral wall 12. This prevents the finger U22 from getting caught on the cap body 141 when using the device body B (electric shaver A), thereby improving the operability of the device body B (electric shaver A) when in use.

[0136] Furthermore, when the cap body 141 is removed and the through hole 1221 is opened, the USB terminal (charging unit) 3332 is exposed to the outside, as shown in Figure 33. With the USB terminal (charging unit) 3332 exposed to the outside, the battery 34 is charged by plugging the USB cable (charging cord) 8 into the USB terminal (charging unit) 3332.

[0137] In this embodiment, a USB terminal (charging section) 3332 is formed on the peripheral wall 12 of the base D, into which a USB cable (charging cord) 8 can be inserted, when the blade E is positioned at the top and the base D is positioned at the bottom.

[0138] This allows the battery 34 to be charged while the device body B (electric shaver A) is placed on the mounting surface 7a, thereby improving the usability of the device body B (electric shaver A).

[0139] In this embodiment, an upper packing 41a is attached to the upper part of the peripheral wall (upper housing 41) of the waterproof unit 2. When the waterproof unit 2 is placed in the cavity formed inside the lower base housing 10 and fixed to the lower base housing 10, the upper packing 41a is made to contact the inner surface of the peripheral wall 12 of the lower base housing 10. In this way, the space formed between the waterproof unit 2 and the lower base housing 10 is sealed from above.

[0140] However, in this embodiment, in order to detachably attach the outer blade block B2 to the housing B1, a pair of release buttons 44 are mounted on the upper part of the base body 1 in such a manner that they can protrude and retract in the Y direction (width direction).

[0141] Therefore, a gap is formed in the area of ​​the base body 1 where the release button 44 is located, which communicates with the space formed between the waterproof unit 2 and the lower base housing 10. As a result, there is a risk that liquids such as water, cut whiskers (hairs), etc., may seep into the space formed between the waterproof unit 2 and the lower base housing 10 through the gap formed in the area of ​​the base body 1 where the release button 44 is located.

[0142] Thus, in this embodiment, a non-waterproof space S4 is formed in the space between the waterproof unit 2 and the lower base housing 10. In other words, a non-waterproof space S4 is formed outside the main body-side waterproof space S3 at the base D.

[0143] Therefore, in this embodiment, when the blade portion E is positioned at the top and the base portion D is positioned at the bottom, an outlet S4a is formed at the lower end of the base portion D, which allows liquid present inside the non-waterproof space S4 to be discharged to the outside.

[0144] Specifically, a through-hole is formed in the center of the lower end of the rear wall 122 in the Y direction (width direction), and this through-hole functions as an outlet S4a. In this embodiment, as described above, the external appearance (shape of the outer surface D1a) of the peripheral wall D1 of the base D is such that the overall shape is smoothly curved with a bulge in the center. Therefore, the lower end of the rear wall 122 is also an inclined surface that slopes downward and inward, and is located behind the rear end of the bottom wall 11. Consequently, as shown in Figure 37, the outlet S4a can be positioned facing the mounting surface 7a without being blocked by the bottom wall 11 when the device body B (electric shaver A) is placed on the mounting surface 7a.

[0145] This design allows the non-waterproof space S4 to function as a drainage route. This enables more rapid drainage of liquids such as water and severed hairs that have entered the non-waterproof space S4.

[0146] In particular, in this embodiment, an outlet S4a is formed at the lower end of the base D when the blade E is positioned at the top and the base D is positioned at the bottom. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the electric shaver A or the device body B is standing upright on the mounting surface 7a, liquids such as water that have entered the non-waterproof space S4, cut beards (hair), etc. can be discharged to the outside more quickly.

[0147] Furthermore, a notch 1231 opening upward is formed at the upper end of the central part in the X direction of each of the pair of side walls 123, and the operating part of the main body 441 is inserted into this notch 1231.

[0148] Next, we will describe the specific configuration of the waterproof unit 2.

[0149] In this embodiment, the waterproof unit 2 is assembled such that a waterproof space S3 on the main body side is formed inside. As shown in Figures 16 and 17, it comprises a lower unit 3 having a lower housing 31 and positioned on the lower side, and an upper unit 4 having an upper housing 41 and connected to the upper part of the lower unit 3.

[0150] In this embodiment, a lower packing 41b is attached to the lower end of the upper housing 41, so that when the upper unit 4 is connected to the upper part of the lower unit 3, the space between the upper housing 41 and the lower housing 31 is sealed by this lower packing 41b.

[0151] The lower unit 3 has a lower housing 31 that opens upward, and this lower housing 31 comprises a rectangular plate-shaped bottom wall 311 with rounded corners and a peripheral wall 312 that is connected to the outer edge of the bottom wall 311 so as to rise upward. Thus, in this embodiment, the shape of the lower housing 31 is also a rectangular bottomed cylinder with rounded corners.

[0152] As shown in Figures 18 and 19, a cavity is formed inside the lower housing 31, and internal components such as the circuit unit 33 and battery 34 are housed within this cavity.

[0153] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 17, a through hole 3111 is formed in the center of the Y-direction (width direction) at the front end of the bottom wall 311 in the X-direction (front-to-back direction), and this through hole 3111 is sealed by a sealing member 32. The through hole 3111 is formed in a position corresponding to the through hole 112 that is sealed by the switch button 13, and when the waterproof unit 2 is placed in the cavity formed inside the lower base housing 10 and fixed to the lower base housing 10, the sealing member 32 that seals this through hole 3111 faces the switch button 13.

[0154] The sealing member 32 comprises a main body portion 321 that abuts against the through hole 3111, and a flexible portion 322 connected to the inside of the main body portion 321 and capable of bending in the direction of penetration of the through hole 3111 (the thickness direction of the bottom wall 311). This flexible portion 322 is formed to face the switch button 13 when the waterproof unit 2 is placed in a cavity formed inside the lower base housing 10 and fixed to the lower base housing 10. In this embodiment, the flexible portion 322 is formed to bend elastically when the switch button 13 is pressed. In this way, when the hand U2 is released from the switch button 13 while the switch button 13 is pressed, the flexible portion 322 moves back to its original position, and this movement of the flexible portion 322 also causes the switch button 13 to return to its original position.

[0155] Furthermore, the sealing member 32 is equipped with a light guide (display section) 323, and when the waterproof unit 2 is placed in a cavity formed inside the lower base housing 10 and fixed to the lower base housing 10, the tip of the light guide (display section) 323 is inserted into a through hole 1211 formed in the center of the lower end of the front wall 121 in the Y direction (width direction).

[0156] Furthermore, a press-fit hole 3112 is formed on one side of the through-hole 3111 in the bottom wall 311 in the Y direction (width direction), and this press-fit hole 3112 communicates with the through-hole (press-fit hole) 113 formed in the bottom wall 11 of the lower base housing 10 when the waterproof unit 2 is placed inside the cavity of the lower base housing 10.

[0157] In this embodiment, extension walls 3124 are formed on the outer sides of the four corners of the peripheral wall 312, and screw holes 31241 are formed in each of these extension walls 3124. These screw holes 31241 communicate with lower screw holes 41243 formed in the flange portion 4124 of the upper housing 41.

[0158] Then, with the screw hole 31241 in communication with the lower screw hole 41243, the screw 93 is inserted from below into the screw hole 31241 and the lower screw hole 41243, thereby fixing the upper housing 41 to the lower housing 31.

[0159] Furthermore, the peripheral wall 312 includes a front wall 3121, a rear wall 3122, and a pair of side walls 3123 connecting the front wall 3121 and the rear wall 3122.

[0160] Furthermore, a receiving recess 31221 is formed in the center of the lower end of the rear wall 3122 in the Y direction (width direction), and a retaining hook 1421 formed at the tip of the connecting piece 142 of the cap body 141 is accommodated in this receiving recess 31221. In this embodiment, the tip of the connecting piece 142 (hook 1421) is inserted into the through hole 1221 from the outside (rear), and with the cap body 141 positioned outside the lower base housing 10, the hook 1421 is accommodated in the receiving recess 31221.

[0161] As shown in Figures 18 and 19, the circuit unit 33, battery 34, and battery holder 35 are housed in a cavity formed inside the lower housing 31 as internal components.

[0162] In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 20 and 21, the circuit unit 33 includes a main circuit unit 331 for driving a linear motor (motor) 43 (described later), a sub-circuit unit 332 for controlling the power on / off, and a USB circuit unit 333 for charging the battery 34. Thus, in this embodiment, the circuit unit 33 for controlling the device body B (electric shaver A) is divided into three circuit units. The three circuit units are then arranged in the gap formed around the battery holder 35, which is located in the center of the cavity formed inside the lower housing 31. This makes effective use of the cavity formed inside the lower housing 31, thereby reducing the height of the device body B (electric shaver A).

[0163] In this embodiment, the battery holder 35 is positioned in the center of a cavity formed inside the lower housing 31, with its longitudinal direction substantially aligned with the Y direction (width direction), and the space for holding the battery 34 facing downwards.

[0164] Thus, in this embodiment, the space for holding the battery 34 formed in the battery holder 35 is a first space S1 in which the battery 34 capable of supplying power to the linear motor (motor) 43 is arranged, and this first space S1 is elongated in the Y direction (width direction: first direction) as it extends horizontally with the blade portion E and the base portion D aligned in the vertical direction.

[0165] This design ensures that the first space S1 formed in the base D is horizontally elongated (a narrow space in the width direction), thereby suppressing the expansion of the base D in the Z direction (vertical direction: up and down direction), and allowing the height dimension (vertical direction: up and down direction) of the device body B (electric shaver A) to be reduced.

[0166] In this case, the first space S1 is formed in the central part of the base D in the front-to-back direction (second direction).

[0167] In this way, by forming the first space S1 in the center of the base D in the front-to-back direction (second direction), it is possible to suppress the center of gravity of the device body B from being biased to one side in the front-to-back direction (second direction), thereby improving the operability of the device body B (electric razor A) when in use.

[0168] In this embodiment, when the device body B is positioned such that the blade portion E is at the top and the base portion D is at the bottom, and the extension direction of the base portion D is made to substantially coincide with the vertical direction, the drive surface of the inner blade becomes a surface substantially parallel to the horizontal plane. Therefore, the first space S1 also has an elongated shape in a direction substantially parallel to the drive surface of the inner blade.

[0169] Furthermore, the battery 34 to be placed in the first space S1 may be, for example, a dry cell battery or a rechargeable battery (a dry cell-shaped rechargeable battery) that has the same shape as a dry cell battery and is compatible with dry cell batteries. In this embodiment, only one rechargeable battery (a dry cell-shaped rechargeable battery) that has the same shape as a dry cell battery and is compatible with dry cell batteries is used.

[0170] Then, a dry cell-shaped rechargeable battery (battery 34) is placed in the first space S1 formed in the battery holder 35. In this way, the battery 34 is positioned inside the first space S1 with its central axis C1 extending parallel to the width direction (first direction).

[0171] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the battery 34 is built into the base D.

[0172] This allows the battery 34 to be positioned in a way that prevents it from being removed from the waterproof space S3 on the main unit side, even when the main unit B (electric shaver A) is given a waterproof function. This makes it possible to more reliably suppress the deterioration of the waterproof performance of the main unit B (electric shaver A).

[0173] The base D may be configured to allow the battery 34 to be inserted into and removed from the first space S1.

[0174] This makes it easier to replace a battery 34 that has reached the end of its lifespan or is no longer usable with a new battery 34.

[0175] Such a configuration can be achieved, for example, by forming a through-hole in the base D that communicates with the first space S1, and closing the through-hole with a lid that can seal the main body-side waterproof space S3 in an openable and closable manner.

[0176] In this embodiment, the main circuit unit 331 for driving the linear motor (motor) 43 is positioned near the linear motor (motor) 43. A sub-circuit unit 332 for controlling the power on / off is positioned near the switch button 13. A USB circuit unit 333 for charging the battery 34 is positioned near a through-hole 1221 that allows the USB terminal (charging section) 3332 to be exposed.

[0177] Specifically, the main circuit unit 331 is held in the main circuit unit holder 351 formed on the upper part of the battery holder 35, so that the main circuit unit 331 is positioned near the linear motor (motor) 43. The sub-circuit unit 332 is held in the sub-circuit unit holder 352 formed on the lower front part of the battery holder 35, so that the sub-circuit unit 332 is positioned near the switch button 13. The USB circuit unit 333 is held in the USB circuit unit holder 353 formed on the rear of the battery holder 35, so that the USB circuit unit 333 is positioned near the through hole 1221. In this way, the circuit boards of each circuit unit are made as small as possible.

[0178] In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 22 and 23, the main circuit unit 331 includes a main circuit board 3311, a pair of busbar terminals 3312 electrically connected to the main circuit board 3311 to which a pair of ends of the coils 43123 of the linear motor (motor) 43 are electrically connected, and a pair of electrode terminals 3313 electrically connected to the main circuit board 3311 while being held at both ends of the battery holder 35 in the Y direction (width direction).

[0179] When a dry cell-shaped rechargeable battery (battery 34) is placed in the first space S1 formed in the battery holder 35, one electrode of the battery 34 is electrically connected to the main circuit board 3311 via one electrode terminal 3313, and the other electrode of the battery 34 is electrically connected to the main circuit board 3311 via the other electrode terminal 3313. In this way, the drive of the linear motor (motor) 43 is controlled using the power supplied from the battery 34.

[0180] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 24 and 25, the sub-circuit unit 332 includes a sub-circuit board 3321 and a light-shielding member 3322 that is held by the sub-circuit board 3321 and is capable of suppressing light leakage emitted from the LED 33212. The sub-circuit board 3321 is equipped with a switch element 33211 that can be operated by a switch button 13 to switch the power on and off, and an LED 33212 that can emit light that passes through the light guide (display) 323 and irradiates the outside.

[0181] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the light-shielding member 3322 is provided with a light-shielding plate 33221, which suppresses the leakage of light emitted from the LED 33212. By suppressing the leakage of light emitted from the LED 33212 in this way, it becomes possible to introduce the light emitted from the LED 33212 into the light guide unit (display unit) 323 more efficiently.

[0182] In this embodiment, the main circuit board 3311 and the sub-circuit board 3321 are electrically connected by a flexible flat cable connector 36. This allows the drive of the linear motor (motor) 43 to be controlled based on the signal output from the switch element 33211.

[0183] As shown in Figures 26 and 27, the USB circuit unit 333 comprises a USB circuit board 3331, a USB terminal (charging unit) 3332 electrically connected to the USB circuit board 3331, and a holding member 3333 that holds the USB terminal 3332 when the USB terminal 3332 is mounted on the USB circuit board 3331.

[0184] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the waterproof unit 2 is assembled, the USB terminal (charging unit) 3332 can be exposed to the outside of the waterproof unit 2 while the waterproof space S3 on the main unit side is sealed.

[0185] Specifically, the USB circuit unit 333 includes a sealing rubber 3335 capable of sealing around the USB terminal (charging section) 3332, and a rubber receiving member 3334 attached to the holding member 3333 to receive the sealing rubber 3335.

[0186] The tip of the USB terminal (charging part) 3332 is inserted into a through hole 4141 formed in an extension wall 414 that extends downward from the lower end of the rear wall 4122 of the upper housing 41. At this time, the space between the inner surface of the extension wall 414 and the outer surface of the USB terminal (charging part) 3332 is sealed by a sealing rubber 3335.

[0187] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 17 and 27, screw holes 33331 are formed on both sides of the USB terminal (charging section) 3332 in the Y direction (width direction) of the holding member 3333. These pair of screw holes 33331 communicate with a pair of screw holes 4142 formed in the extension wall 414 when the tip of the USB terminal (charging section) 3332 is inserted into the through hole 4141. Then, with the screw holes 33331 communicating with the corresponding screw holes 4142, the screw 94 is inserted into the screw holes 4142 and 33331 from the rear, thereby fixing the holding member 3333, which holds the USB circuit board 3331 and USB terminal 3332, to the extension wall 414. At this time, the screw 94 with the O-ring 81 inserted into its shaft is inserted into the screw holes 4142 and 33331. This ensures that the screw hole 4142 is sealed by the O-ring 81.

[0188] On the other hand, as shown in Figures 28 and 29, the upper unit 4 has an upper housing 41 that opens upward, and this upper housing 41 comprises a rectangular plate-shaped bottom wall 411 with rounded corners and a peripheral wall 412 that is connected to the outer edge of the bottom wall 411 so as to rise upward. Thus, in this embodiment, the shape of the upper housing 41 is also a rectangular bottomed cylinder with rounded corners.

[0189] Furthermore, the upper unit 4 has a top wall 42 that is attached to the upper housing 41 in such a way as to close the upper opening of the upper housing 41.

[0190] Furthermore, the upper unit 4 has a cavity formed by the upper housing 41 and the top wall 42, and a linear motor (motor) 43 is housed in this cavity with the driver elements 4324, 4325 and the drive pins 4326, 4327 exposed upwards.

[0191] Thus, in this embodiment, a linear motor is used as the motor that drives the inner blade (blade portion E) to reciprocate. This allows the motion (reciprocating linear motion) of the linear motor 43 to be directly transmitted to the inner blades 512, 522, and 532. In other words, it eliminates the need to provide a separate conversion mechanism. This helps to suppress an increase in the size of the device while also suppressing an increase in manufacturing costs.

[0192] Next, we will describe the specific configuration of the linear motor 43.

[0193] As shown in Figures 30 to 32, the linear motor 43 comprises an electromagnetic core block 431 having an electromagnet 4312, two magnetic blocks (multiple magnetic blocks) 432 having permanent magnets 4322 positioned opposite the electromagnet 4312, connecting plates 433 that connect each magnetic block 432 to the electromagnetic core block 431, and a pair of connecting springs 434 that connect the two magnetic blocks 432.

[0194] The electromagnetic core block 431 has a base 4311 made of synthetic resin, on which an electromagnet 4312 is fixed.

[0195] Furthermore, the electromagnet 4312 comprises a magnetic core 43121 and a coil 43123 wound around the core 43121 via an insulating bobbin 43122. An alternating current (AC current) is supplied to the coil 43123 in alternating directions. The electromagnet 4312 is positioned on the base 4311 such that each of its magnetic pole surfaces faces the permanent magnets 4322 of the two magnetic blocks 432.

[0196] A pair of magnetic blocks 432 are arranged side by side in the front-to-back direction X with a gap between them. Each magnetic block 432 comprises a synthetic resin holder 4321, a permanent magnet 4322, and a magnetic back yoke 4323. A driver 4324 is fixed to the upper surface of each holder 4321 by a screw 97. For example, a neodymium magnet can be used as the permanent magnet 4322.

[0197] Here, each magnetic block 432 is arranged so that it can reciprocate independently in the reciprocating direction (Y direction: left-right direction) by the deformation of a pair of connecting plates 433. Specifically, the permanent magnets 4322 of each magnetic block 432 are positioned opposite the magnetic pole surfaces of the electromagnet 4312 of the electromagnetic core block 431 via a predetermined gap, by the respective connecting plates 433. Furthermore, the permanent magnets 4322 of the pair of magnetic blocks 432 are positioned with opposite polarity to the magnetic pole surfaces of the electromagnet 4312, and are positioned so that they receive electromagnetic forces (attractive and repulsive forces) with opposite patterns to each other. In this way, when the electromagnet 4312 is energized, the pair of magnetic blocks 432 are subjected to moving forces in opposite directions with respect to the reciprocating direction (Y direction: left-right direction). A back yoke 4323 is positioned on the upper surface of the permanent magnet 4322 (the surface of the permanent magnet 4322 opposite to the electromagnet 4312 side).

[0198] In this embodiment, the pair of connecting plates 433 are integrally formed with the holding portion 4321, and each connecting plate 433 comprises an upward extension portion 4331, a downward extension portion 4332, and an elastic plate portion 4333 positioned between them. The pair of upward extension portions 4331 are fixed to both ends of the holding portion 4321. Furthermore, each downward extension portion 4332 is provided with a mounting projection 43321, and each mounting projection 43321 is fixed to the base 4311 of the electromagnetic core block 431 by screws 98. In this way, each magnetic block 432 is supported in a suspended state by the connecting plates 433.

[0199] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the pair of connecting spring portions 434 are integrally formed with the connecting plate 433 which is integrally formed with the holding portion 4321. That is, in this embodiment, the left and right pair of connecting spring portions 434 are connected to the respective magnetic blocks 432 via connecting plates (elastic support portions) 433 formed on the left and right sides of the magnetic block 432 in the reciprocating direction (Y direction: left-right direction) of the magnetic block 432.

[0200] Each connecting spring section 434 comprises two connecting bases (roots) 4341 and a spring piece 4342 provided between the connecting bases 4341. The two connecting bases 4341 of each connecting spring section 434 are fixed to the upward extension 4331 of the connecting plate 433 of the front magnetic block 432 and to the upward extension 4331 of the connecting plate 433 of the rear magnetic block 432, respectively.

[0201] In this embodiment, the two connecting bases 4341 of each connecting spring portion 434 are provided to protrude outward in the reciprocating direction (Y direction: left-right direction) from the outer part of the upward extension portion 4331 in the reciprocating direction (Y direction: left-right direction).

[0202] Furthermore, the spring piece 4342 has a shape in which a strip-shaped member is curved into a roughly C-shape, and both ends of this strip-shaped spring piece 4342 are connected to two connecting bases 4341, respectively. In this embodiment, the spring piece 4342 is curved to have a roughly C-shape with the upper part in the Z direction (vertical direction) being open.

[0203] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the spring piece 4342 includes a substantially plate-shaped torsion portion 43421 located at the lower part and extending substantially parallel to the X direction (front-rear direction), and a flexible portion 43422 extending upward from both the front and rear ends of the torsion portion 43421 in a substantially semi-circular curve.

[0204] Then, by using such a linear motor 43 to supply current to the electromagnet 4312 alternately in different directions, the electromagnetic force between the electromagnet 4312 and the permanent magnet 4322 causes the pair of magnetic blocks 432 to alternately experience a reciprocating force in one direction (Y direction: left-right direction) and a reciprocating force in the other direction. When a reciprocating force in the reciprocating direction (Y direction: left-right direction) acts on each magnetic block 432 in this way, the connecting plate 433 deforms, and this deformation of the connecting plate 433 causes the pair of magnetic blocks 432 to reciprocate in the reciprocating direction (Y direction: left-right direction).

[0205] In this embodiment, the reciprocating force acting on one magnetic block 432 in the Y direction (left-right direction) and the reciprocating force acting on the other magnetic block 432 in the Y direction (left-right direction) are in opposite directions. That is, when a reciprocating force acting on one magnetic block 432 in one direction in the Y direction (left-right direction) acts on it, a reciprocating force acting on the other magnetic block 432 in the other direction in the Y direction (left-right direction) acts on it. Therefore, in this embodiment, the pair of magnetic blocks 432 reciprocate in the Y direction (left-right direction) with a phase difference of 180 degrees.

[0206] When the pair of magnetic blocks 432 are reciprocating in the reciprocating direction (Y direction: left-right direction), the spring piece 4342 of the connecting spring portion 434 undergoes elastic deformation. Specifically, the pair of front and rear deflection portions 43422 of the spring piece 4342 deform in opposite phases in the reciprocating direction (Y direction: left-right direction), and as a result of this deflection deformation of the deflection portions 43422, the torsion portion 43421 deforms in opposite directions on the front and rear sides, with respect to its central axis extending in the X direction (front-back direction).

[0207] Thus, when the pair of magnetic blocks 432 are reciprocating in the reciprocating direction (Y direction: left-right direction), the connecting spring portion 434 will elastically deform in opposite directions, with the front and rear portions centered on the center line between the pair of magnetic blocks 432. The spring force due to the elastic deformation of the front portion acts on the front magnetic block 432, and the spring force due to the elastic deformation of the rear portion acts on the rear magnetic block 432. At this time, the spring force generated by the elastic deformation (bending and torsional deformation) of the spring piece portion 4342 will act in a direction that restricts the amplitude of the pair of magnetic blocks 432. The amplitude (resonance frequency) of the pair of magnetic blocks 432 can be set to a desired value by setting the spring constant of the connecting spring portion 434 to a predetermined value.

[0208] Furthermore, a pair of screw holes 4111 are formed in the center of the bottom wall 411 in the Y direction (width direction) at the center of the X direction (front-to-back direction), and the linear motor 43 is fixed to the upper housing 41 by inserting screws 95 into these screw holes 4111 from below.

[0209] Furthermore, a pair of through holes 4113 are formed in the center of the Y-direction (width direction) at the front end of the bottom wall 411 in the X-direction (front-to-back direction), so that the ends of the coils 43123 of the linear motor 43 are inserted into these through holes 4113 from above. The ends of the coils 43123 inserted into the through holes 4113 are then electrically connected to the busbar terminals 3312. In this way, the linear motor 43 is electrically connected to the main circuit board 3311.

[0210] In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 36 and 38, the linear motor (motor) 43 is built into the base (main body) D in an elongated state that extends horizontally. That is, the linear motor (motor) 43 is built into the base (main body) D in a horizontally elongated state (elongated in the width direction). This suppresses the vertical (up and down) expansion of the base (main body) D, and makes the height (vertical: up and down) dimension of the electric razor (hair removal device) A smaller.

[0211] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the linear motor (motor) 43, like the first space S1, is designed to have an elongated shape in the Y direction (width direction: first direction) that extends horizontally with the blade portion E and the base portion D aligned vertically. In other words, the linear motor (motor) 43 is built into the base portion (main body portion) D in an elongated shape in the width direction (first direction).

[0212] This allows for miniaturization of the electric shaver (hair removal device) A in the height direction (vertical direction: up and down direction) while also making the thickness of the electric shaver (hair removal device) A thinner (shorter in the front-to-back direction).

[0213] Furthermore, when the linear motor (motor) 43 is built into the base (main body) D, it is preferable that at least the motor body (excluding the driver element, drive pins, and the stretched portion of the coil) is elongated horizontally (narrow in the width direction).

[0214] In this embodiment, the linear motor (motor) 43, including the driver element and drive pins, that is, the part of the linear motor (motor) 43 excluding the coil stretched from the coil bobbin, is designed to be horizontally elongated (narrow in the width direction) when built into the base (main body) D.

[0215] Thus, in this embodiment, the linear motor (motor) 43, including the driver element and drive pin, is designed to be horizontally elongated (long and narrow in the width direction). This makes it possible to more reliably reduce the height (vertical direction: up and down direction) of the electric shaver (hair removal device) A. For this reason, when the linear motor (motor) 43 is built into the base (main body) D in a horizontally elongated state (long and narrow in the width direction), it is more preferable that the linear motor (motor) 43, including the driver element and drive pin, is horizontally elongated (long and narrow in the width direction).

[0216] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 32, the entire linear motor (motor) 43, including the driver element, drive pin, and the stretched portion of the coil, is housed in the base (main body) D in a horizontally elongated state (narrow in the width direction). This makes it possible to further miniaturize the electric shaver (hair removal device) A in the height direction (vertical direction: up and down direction). Thus, when the linear motor (motor) 43 is horizontally elongated (narrow in the width direction), it is also possible to make the entire linear motor (motor) 43, including the driver element, drive pin, and the stretched portion of the coil, horizontally elongated (narrow in the width direction).

[0217] Furthermore, the peripheral wall 412 includes a front wall 4121, a rear wall 4122, and a pair of side walls 4123 connecting the front wall 4121 and the rear wall 4122.

[0218] As shown in Figure 17, an extension wall 414 is attached to the lower end of the rear wall 4122 so as to extend downward, and the tip of the USB terminal (charging unit) 3332 is inserted into a through hole 4141 formed in this extension wall 414.

[0219] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 28 and 29, a spring receiving portion 41232, to which the tip of a coil spring 443 can be abutted, and a detachable button holding portion 41231, which can hold the main body portion 441 in a position where it can be extended and retracted while biased in the Y direction (width direction), are formed at the upper part in the Z direction at the center of the pair of side walls 4123 in the X direction (front-to-back direction).

[0220] In this embodiment, the peripheral wall 412 has a flange portion 4124 that extends outward, and screw holes 41241 are formed at each of the four corners of this flange portion 4124. When the waterproof unit 2 is placed inside the cavity of the lower base housing 10, these screw holes 41241 communicate with the screw holes 120a formed at the four corners inside the peripheral wall 12 and the screw holes 4211 formed in the top wall body 421 of the top wall 42.

[0221] Furthermore, upper screw holes 41242 that open upward are formed at each of the four corners of the flange portion 4124, and these upper screw holes 41242 are in communication with screw holes 4212 formed in the top wall body 421 of the top wall 42 and screw holes 4221 formed in the retaining plate 422.

[0222] Then, with the upper screw hole 41242 in communication with the screw holes 4212 and 4221, the screw 96 is inserted from above into the screw holes 4221, 4212 and upper screw hole 41242, thereby fixing the top wall body 421 and the retaining plate 422 to the upper housing 41.

[0223] Furthermore, lower screw holes 41243 that open downwards are formed at each of the four corners of the flange portion 4124, and these lower screw holes 41243 are in communication with screw holes 31241 formed in the extension wall 3124.

[0224] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the top wall 42 includes a top wall body 421 that is attached to the upper housing 41 in such a way as to close the upper opening of the upper housing 41, a waterproof rubber 423 that seals the cavity of the upper unit 4, and a retaining plate 422 that holds down the waterproof rubber 423.

[0225] In this embodiment, the waterproof rubber 423 is sandwiched between the top wall body 421 and the retaining plate 422, so that the waterproof rubber 423 is held down by the retaining plate 422.

[0226] Furthermore, the top wall body 421 has screw holes 4211 for fixing the top wall body 421 to the lower base housing 10 with the upper housing 41 in between. The top wall body 421 also has screw holes 4212 for fixing the top wall body 421 and the retaining plate 422 to the upper housing 41. In addition, the top wall body 421 has a pair of insertion holes 4213, and by inserting a pair of drive elements 4324 through these insertion holes 4213 from below, the pair of drive elements 4324 are exposed upwards.

[0227] Furthermore, the retaining plate 422 has screw holes 4221 formed therein for fixing the top wall body 421 and the retaining plate 422 to the upper housing 41. In addition, the retaining plate 422 has a pair of insertion holes 4222 formed therein, and by inserting a pair of drive elements 4324 through these insertion holes 4222 from below, the pair of drive elements 4324 are exposed upwards.

[0228] Furthermore, the waterproof rubber 423 has a pair of through holes 4231 formed therein. By inserting a pair of drive elements 4324 through these through holes 4231 from below, and making the waterproof rubber 423 tightly adhere to the sides of the drive elements 4324, the cavity defined by the upper housing 41 and the top wall 42 is sealed.

[0229] Thus, in this embodiment, the cavity formed inside the lower base housing 10 and the cavity defined by the upper housing 41 and the top wall 42 constitute the main body side waterproof space S3 formed inside the waterproof unit 2.

[0230] Next, we will describe the specific configuration of protective cap C.

[0231] The protective cap C is a component for protecting the skin contact surface 5a of the blade E that is exposed to the outside of the device body B when the device is not in use, and is designed to be detachably attached to the device body B.

[0232] In this embodiment, the protective cap C is detachably attached to the device body B using magnetic force, and no protrusions (mechanical fixing shapes) that allow engagement with the protective cap C are formed on the base D.

[0233] In this way, by not providing the base D with protrusions (mechanical fixing shapes), it is possible to prevent the finger U22 from getting caught on the protrusions when using the device body B (electric razor A), as would occur if the base D had protrusions (mechanical fixing shapes). This improves the operability of the device body B (electric razor A) when in use.

[0234] Specifically, a magnet 63, such as a neodymium magnet, is attached to the protective cap C. The five outer blades (two net blades 511, two finishing net blades 521, and one slit outer blade 531) are made of ferromagnetic stainless steel (SUS). In this way, the protective cap C is detachably attached to the device body B by utilizing the magnetic attractive force generated between the magnet 63 and the outer blade of the blade section E. Thus, in this embodiment, by providing a magnet 63 on the protective cap C and forming the outer blade of the blade section E from a ferromagnetic material such as metal, the protective cap C is detachably attached to the device body B by utilizing the attractive force of the magnet 63 (the magnetic attractive force generated between the magnet 63 and the outer blade of the blade section E).

[0235] In this embodiment, the protective cap C is detachably attached to the device body B by utilizing the magnetic attraction force generated between the relatively rigid (deformation-resistant) slit outer blade 531 and the magnet 63. This ensures that deformation of the outer blade of the blade portion E is suppressed more reliably.

[0236] In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 34 and 35, the protective cap C is provided with a protective cap body 6 that is curved upwards, and a magnet 63 is attached to the inside of this protective cap body 6.

[0237] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figures 36 to 39, a protective cap-side waterproof space S5 is formed in the protective cap C, and the magnet 63 is placed inside this protective cap-side waterproof space S5. This prevents liquids such as water from coming into contact with the magnet 63.

[0238] Specifically, as shown in Figure 35, a waterproof cover receiving recess 61 capable of accommodating the waterproof cover 651 is formed inside the protective cap body 6. Furthermore, an elongated annular projection 611 in the width direction and a projection 612 for preventing the waterproof cover 651 from coming off are formed in the waterproof cover receiving recess 61.

[0239] Then, the cushion 64 and the two magnets 63 are inserted in this order inside the annular projection 611, and with the O-ring 652 interposed between the annular projection 611 and the waterproof cover 651, the waterproof cover 651 is housed in the waterproof cover housing recess 61, thereby forming a protective cap side waterproof space S5 in the protective cap C.

[0240] In this embodiment, the covering portion 6511 of the waterproof cover 651 covers the annular projection 611 into which the cushion 64 and two magnets 63 are inserted, with an O-ring 652 interposed between them, thereby forming a waterproof space S5 on the protective cap side. The projection 612 then presses against the flange portion 6512 formed around the covering portion 6511, preventing the waterproof cover 651 from coming off the protective cap body 6.

[0241] This design ensures that the protective cap C is attached to the device body B simply by placing the protective cap C over the device body B.

[0242] At this time, by setting the distance L5 between the magnet 63 attached to the protective cap C and the outer blade (slit outer blade 531) to a desired distance, the force required to attach and detach the protective cap C to the device body B can be set to a desired force.

[0243] Furthermore, when the protective cap C is attached to the main body B of the device, it is preferable that the distance L5 between the magnet 63 and the outer blade (slit outer blade 531) be greater than zero (i.e., that the magnet 63 and the slit outer blade 531 are separated).

[0244] For example, if the protective cap C is attached to the main body B of the device and the magnet 63 is in contact with (attracted to) the outer blade (slit outer blade 531), there is a risk of damaging the outer blade (slit outer blade 531) when removing the protective cap C from the main body B of the device or when the electric shaver A falls. However, as in this embodiment, if the magnet 63 is separated from the outer blade (slit outer blade 531) when the protective cap C is attached to the main body B of the device, it becomes possible to prevent damage to the outer blade (slit outer blade 531) when removing the protective cap C from the main body B of the device or when the electric shaver A falls.

[0245] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the lower end surface 621 of the protective cap body 6 is made to be an inclined surface that slopes inward and upward, and the upper end surface 151b of the peripheral wall 151 of the upper base housing 15 is made to be an inclined surface that slopes inward and upward at an angle corresponding to the lower end surface 621 of the protective cap body 6. In this way, when the protective cap body 6 is grasped from the front and back and an inward force is applied, the protective cap body 6 will move in a direction away from the device body B while being guided by the upper end surface 151b. Therefore, it becomes possible to more reliably prevent damage to the blade E when attaching or detaching the protective cap C to the device body B.

[0246] In this embodiment, an operating projection 62 is provided at the lower end of the rear of the protective cap body 6, and the protective cap C can be attached to and detached from the device body B by operating this operating projection 62.

[0247] Furthermore, in this embodiment, we have illustrated a configuration using only one rechargeable battery (a rechargeable battery in the shape of a dry cell) that has the same shape as a dry cell and is compatible with dry cell batteries. However, it is also possible to arrange multiple batteries 34 inside the first space S1.

[0248] In this embodiment, the blade E is positioned above the top wall 42 that defines the upper part of the waterproof space S3 on the main body side in which the linear motor (motor) 43 is housed, with a portion of the blade E exposed, thereby forming a non-waterproof space S6 into which liquids such as water can enter. This allows the blade E to be cleaned with liquids such as water after using the electric razor A (device body B).

[0249] In this embodiment, the non-waterproof space S6 is defined by the top wall body 421 of the top wall 42, the peripheral wall 151 of the upper base housing 15, and the outer blades (net blade 511, finishing net blade 521, slit outer blade 531) arranged to cover the upper opening 15a of the upper base housing 15, as shown in Figures 36 to 39. Liquids such as water can enter the non-waterproof space S6 through the openings of the outer blades (net blade 511, finishing net blade 521, slit outer blade 531).

[0250] If such a non-waterproof space S6 is formed, after cleaning the blade portion E, liquids such as water may adhere to the inner surface of the non-waterproof space S6 and the blade portion E (especially the net inner blade 512, which is an inner blade placed in the non-waterproof space S6), and these liquids may remain in the non-waterproof space S6, potentially causing an unpleasant odor.

[0251] Therefore, it is preferable to prevent water or other liquids from remaining in the non-waterproof space S6 where the blade portion E is partially exposed.

[0252] Therefore, in this embodiment, it is possible to more reliably suppress the retention of liquids such as water in the non-waterproof space S6.

[0253] Specifically, the base (main body) D is equipped with a drying means 100 for drying the non-waterproof space S6, and the drying means 100 is equipped with a film heater (heat-generating element) 101 for generating heat. This allows the non-waterproof space S6 to be dried by evaporating any liquid remaining in the non-waterproof space S6 using the drying means 100 after the blade E has been washed with water or other liquid. This makes it possible to more reliably prevent liquid from remaining in the non-waterproof space S6, thereby suppressing the generation of unpleasant odors caused by liquid remaining in the non-waterproof space S6. As a result, the electric razor A (device body B) can be used more hygienically.

[0254] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the drying means 100 is equipped with a heat dissipation member 102 that receives heat generated by the film heater (heat-generating element) 101 and dissipates it into the non-waterproof space S6. This ensures that the heat generated by the film heater (heat-generating element) 101 can be dissipated from the heat dissipation member 102 into the non-waterproof space S6, regardless of the position of the film heater (heat-generating element) 101.

[0255] It is also possible for the drying means 100 to consist only of the film heater (heating element) 101 and the heat dissipation member 102. In this case, it is preferable to expose the surface of the film heater (heating element) 101 to the non-waterproof space S6 and to directly dissipate the heat generated by the film heater (heating element) 101 into the non-waterproof space S6.

[0256] Furthermore, the heating element is not limited to film heaters; various other elements can be used as heating elements, such as Peltier elements, heating wires, and light-emitting elements that generate enough heat for drying when illuminated.

[0257] At this time, it is possible that the base portion (main body portion) D is provided with a partition wall 200 that defines the non-waterproof space S6, and the partition wall 200 is provided with a film heater (heat generating member) 101. It is also possible to provide the partition wall 200 with a heat dissipating member 102.

[0258] In the present embodiment, as shown in Figures 28, 29, 36 to 39, the top wall 42 includes a resin-made top wall main body 421, and a metal-made pressing plate 422 disposed on the upper portion of the top wall main body 421, and an example is illustrated in which the film heater (heat generating member) 101 is sandwiched between the top wall main body 421 and the pressing plate 422. With this arrangement, the resin-made top wall main body 421 suppresses the heat generated by the film heater (heat generating member) 101 from moving downward where the main body-side waterproof space (waterproof space) S3 is formed, so that the heat is transmitted to the metal-made pressing plate 422 more efficiently.

[0259] Further, since the metal-made pressing plate 422 is disposed on the upper portion of the top wall main body 421 with its upper face exposed to the non-waterproof space S6, the heat transmitted to the pressing plate 422 is dissipated from the upper face of the pressing plate 422 to the non-waterproof space S6.

[0260] As described above, the present embodiment illustrates an example in which the pressing plate 422 is caused to have a function as the heat dissipating member 102. This eliminates the need to separately provide the heat dissipating member 102, making it possible to simplify the configuration and reduce costs.

[0261] In this embodiment, the peripheral wall 151 of the upper base housing 15 also serves as a partition wall 200 that defines the non-waterproof space S6. That is, the top wall body 421 is the bottom wall that constitutes part of the partition wall 200 that defines the non-waterproof space S6, and the peripheral wall 151 is the side wall that constitutes part of the partition wall 200 that defines the non-waterproof space S6. Therefore, it is possible to provide a film heater (heat-generating element) 101 and a heat-dissipating element 102 on the peripheral wall 151, or it is possible to provide only the film heater (heat-generating element) 101 on the peripheral wall 151 and use the retaining plate 422 as a heat-dissipating element 102 by thermally connecting the film heater (heat-generating element) 101 and the retaining plate 422 via a heat-transferring element. In this embodiment, since the peripheral wall 151 is also formed using a resin material, even if the film heater (heat-generating element) 101 is provided on the peripheral wall 151, the heat generated by the film heater (heat-generating element) 101 can be prevented from being diffused by the peripheral wall 151. This allows the heat generated by the film heater (heat-generating element) 101 to be more efficiently transferred to the heat dissipation member 102 and dissipated into the non-waterproof space S6.

[0262] Thus, it is also possible to provide a drying means 100 in the partition wall 200 that defines the non-waterproof space S6. Furthermore, it is also possible to provide the heat dissipation member 102 in such a way that at least a portion of it is exposed to the non-waterproof space S6.

[0263] This allows the heat generated by the film heater (heat-generating element) 101 to be more efficiently dissipated from the heat-dissipating element 102 to the non-waterproof space S6, thereby more reliably preventing liquid from remaining in the non-waterproof space S6.

[0264] Furthermore, as shown in this embodiment, if the retaining plate 422 is used as a heat dissipation member 102, the net inner blade 512 is positioned below the outer blade (net blade 511, finishing net blade 521, slit outer blade 531), and the heat dissipation member 102 is positioned below this net inner blade 512.

[0265] Thus, in this embodiment, the blade portion E includes an outer blade (net blade 511, finishing net blade 521, slit outer blade 531) which is positioned partially exposed in the non-waterproof space S6, and an inner blade (including a net inner blade 512) which is positioned within the non-waterproof space S6 and slides against the outer blade (net blade 511, finishing net blade 521, slit outer blade 531). Furthermore, in this configuration, it is also possible to position the heat dissipation member 102 below the net inner blade 512, with the net inner blade 512 positioned below the outer blade (net blade 511, finishing net blade 521, slit outer blade 531).

[0266] This allows heat to be dissipated from the heat dissipation member 102 into the non-waterproof space S6, and the heat rising within the non-waterproof space S6 can be directed onto the net inner blade 512, thereby enabling more efficient evaporation of the liquid adhering to the net inner blade 512. As a result, it becomes possible to more reliably suppress the residue of liquid remaining in the non-waterproof space S6.

[0267] At this time, it is preferable that the inner blade 512 and the heat dissipation member 102 overlap when the electric shaver A (device body B) is viewed along the Z direction (vertical direction). This ensures that the heat dissipated from the heat dissipation member 102 to the non-waterproof space S6 and the heat rising within the non-waterproof space S6 can be reliably directed to the inner blade 512, thereby allowing the liquid adhering to the inner blade 512 to evaporate more efficiently. Furthermore, when the moisture in the non-waterproof space S6 evaporates, the evaporated moisture rises, but since there is an opening (the part where the outer blade is located) at the top of the non-waterproof space S6, the evaporated and rising moisture can be more efficiently dissipated from the opening in the non-waterproof space S6 to the outside of the electric shaver A (device body B).

[0268] Furthermore, it is also possible to position the film heater (heat-generating element) 101 between the heat dissipation member 102 and the partition wall 200. It is also possible to sandwich the film heater (heat-generating element) 101 between the heat dissipation member 102 and the partition wall 200. In this way, the heat generated by the film heater (heat-generating element) 101 can be directly transferred to the heat dissipation member 102, making it possible to dissipate heat from the heat dissipation member 102 to the non-waterproof space S6 more efficiently. As a result, it becomes possible to more reliably suppress the retention of liquid in the non-waterproof space S6.

[0269] In this case, it is also possible to cover the entire film heater (heating element) 101 with the heat dissipation element 102. This prevents the user's hand U2 from touching the film heater (heating element) 101, and even if the blade E is detachably attached to the base (main body) D to expose the non-waterproof space S6, the electric razor A (device body B) can be used more safely. Furthermore, it also prevents the film heater (heating element) 101 from peeling off due to the user's hand U2 touching it.

[0270] Furthermore, the electric shaver A (device body B) can be configured so that the drying means 100 operates when the linear motor (motor) 43 is not driven, allowing the non-waterproof space S6 to be dried after the electric shaver A (device body B) has been cleaned and no hair removal has been performed.

[0271] Furthermore, in the case of an electric razor A (device body B) in which the blade E is detachably attached to the base (main body) D so as to expose the non-waterproof space S6, and in the case where the drying means 100 is operated when the linear motor (motor) 43 is not driven, it is preferable that the film heater (heating element) 101 be switched on and off in conjunction with the attachment and detachment of the blade E to the base (main body) D. And, when the blade E is removed from the base (main body) D, it is preferable that the film heater (heating element) 101 be in the off state. This makes it possible to use the electric razor A (device body B) more safely.

[0272] Furthermore, when the film heater (heating element) 101 is in operation, it is possible to control the temperature of the film heater (heating element) 101 so that it is between 40°C and 80°C. This makes it possible to maintain a more appropriate temperature within the non-waterproof space S6, thereby suppressing a decrease in the drying performance of the non-waterproof space S6 and allowing the electric shaver A (device body B) to be used more safely.

[0273] Such a configuration can be achieved, for example, by providing a thermistor 103 as shown in Figures 28, 29, and 36-39, and controlling the temperature of the film heater (heat-generating element) 101 to be between 40°C and 80°C using the thermistor 103.

[0274] Furthermore, the power supply system for the film heater (heating element) 101 can be the same system as the power supply system for the linear motor (motor) 43, or it can be a different system.

[0275] It should be noted that the electric razor (hair removal device) A is not limited to the configuration shown in the above embodiment; for example, the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 42 and 43 is also possible.

[0276] The electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 42 and 43 is also a reciprocating electric razor (hair removal device) A, a small shaver that fits in the palm U21 of the user U, that is, an electric razor that can be used with the main body wrapped around the palm U21.

[0277] Here, while the electric razor (hair removal device) A according to the above embodiment is a five-blade electric razor composed of two net blade blocks 51, two finishing net blade blocks 52, and one slit blade block 53, the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 42 and 43 is a three-blade electric razor composed of two net blade blocks 51 and one slit blade block 53.

[0278] Furthermore, in the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 42 and 43, the base (main body) D is equipped with a drying means 100 for drying the non-waterproof space S6, and the drying means 100 is equipped with a film heater (heat-generating element) 101 for generating heat. Specifically, the base (main body) D is equipped with a partition wall 200 that defines the non-waterproof space S6, the film heater (heat-generating element) 101 is provided on this partition wall 200, and a heat dissipation element 102 is provided on the partition wall 200.

[0279] Furthermore, in the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 42 and 43, the top wall 42 is provided with a resin top wall body 421 and a metal retaining plate 422 positioned on the upper part of the top wall body 421, and a film heater (heating element) 101 is sandwiched between the top wall body 421 and the retaining plate 422 as an example. In this way, the resin top wall body 421 prevents the heat generated by the film heater (heating element) 101 from moving downward to the main body side waterproof space (waterproof space) S3, and the heat is transferred to the metal retaining plate 422 more efficiently.

[0280] Then, the metallic pressing plate 422 is disposed on the upper part of the top wall main body 421 with its upper surface exposed to the non-waterproof space S6, so that the heat transmitted to the pressing plate 422 is dissipated from the top wall main body 421 to the non-waterproof space S6.

[0281] In this way, the electric shaver (hair removal device) A shown in FIG. 42 and FIG. 43 is also provided with the drying means 100 having substantially the same configuration as the drying means 100 of the electric shaver (hair removal device) A described in the above embodiment.

[0282] Even with such an electric shaver (hair removal device) A, it is possible to achieve substantially the same actions and effects as those of the electric shaver (hair removal device) A described in the above embodiment.

[0283] It is also possible to adopt the electric shaver (hair removal device) A shown in FIG. 44 and FIG. 45.

[0284] The electric shaver (hair removal device) A shown in FIG. 44 and FIG. 45 is also a reciprocating electric shaver (hair removal device) A, and in this electric shaver (hair removal device) A, the base portion (main body portion) D has a head portion F. The head portion F has a head portion main body F1, and the blade portion E is detachably mounted on the head portion main body F1.

[0285] In addition, the lower base housing 10 to which the head portion F is continuously provided has an elongated shape in the Z direction (vertical direction), and when using the electric shaver (hair removal device) A shown in FIG. 44 and FIG. 45, a user grips this lower base housing 10. Further, inside the lower base housing 10, the battery 34 is housed with its longitudinal direction substantially aligned with the Z direction (vertical direction).

[0286] Here, the electric shaver (hair removal device) A shown in FIG. 44 and FIG. 45 is a three-blade electric shaver constituted by two net blade blocks 51 and one slit blade block 53.

[0287] Furthermore, in the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 44 and 45, the base (main body) D is equipped with a drying means 100 for drying the non-waterproof space S6, and the drying means 100 is equipped with a film heater (heat-generating element) 101 for generating heat. Specifically, in the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 44 and 45, a non-waterproof space S6 is formed above the top wall body 421 that defines the upper side of the head body F1 in which the linear motor (motor) 43 is housed, with the blade E partially exposed, allowing the ingress of liquids such as water to be permitted. Above the top wall body 421, a drying means 100 is provided, which includes a film heater (heat-generating element) 101 for generating heat, and a heat-dissipating element 102 that transmits the heat generated by the film heater (heat-generating element) 101 to the non-waterproof space S6 for heat dissipation. Furthermore, in the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 44 and 45, the pressing plate 422 is also used as a heat dissipation member 102.

[0288] As described above, the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 44 and 45 has a drying means 100 that has substantially the same configuration as the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in the above embodiment.

[0289] By using such an electric razor (hair removal device) A, it is possible to achieve almost the same action and effect as the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in the above embodiment.

[0290] Alternatively, it is possible to use electric razor (hair removal device) A as shown in Figures 46 and 47.

[0291] The electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 46 and 47 is also a reciprocating electric razor (hair removal device) A, and in this electric razor (hair removal device) A, the base (main body) D has a head F. This head F has a head body F1, and the blade E is detachably attached to this head body F1.

[0292] Furthermore, the lower base housing 10, to which the head unit F is attached, has an elongated shape in the Z direction (vertical direction), and when using the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 46 and 47, the user grips this lower base housing 10. In addition, a battery 34 is housed inside the lower base housing 10 with its longitudinal direction approximately aligned with the Z direction (vertical direction).

[0293] Here, the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 46 and 47 is a five-blade electric razor composed of one net blade block 51, two finishing net blade blocks 52, and two slit blade blocks 53.

[0294] Furthermore, in the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 46 and 47, the base (main body) D is equipped with a drying means 100 for drying the non-waterproof space S6, and the drying means 100 is equipped with a film heater (heat-generating element) 101 for generating heat. Specifically, in the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 46 and 47, a non-waterproof space S6 is formed above the top wall body 421 that defines the upper side of the head body F1 in which the linear motor (motor) 43 is housed, with the blade E partially exposed, allowing the ingress of liquids such as water to be permitted. Above the top wall body 421, a drying means 100 is provided, which includes a film heater (heat-generating element) 101 for generating heat, and a heat-dissipating element 102 that receives the heat generated by the film heater (heat-generating element) 101 and dissipates it into the non-waterproof space S6. Furthermore, in the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 46 and 47, the pressing plate 422 is also used as a heat dissipation member 102.

[0295] As described above, the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 46 and 47 has a drying means 100 that has substantially the same configuration as the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in the above embodiment.

[0296] By using such an electric razor (hair removal device) A, it is possible to achieve almost the same action and effect as the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in the above embodiment.

[0297] Alternatively, it is possible to use electric razor (hair removal device) A as shown in Figures 48 and 49.

[0298] The electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 48 and 49 is also a reciprocating electric razor (hair removal device) A, and in this electric razor (hair removal device) A, the base (main body) D has a head part F. This head part F has a head body F1, and the blade part E is detachably attached to this head body F1.

[0299] Furthermore, the lower base housing 10, to which the head unit F is attached, has an elongated shape in the Z direction (vertical direction), and when using the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 48 and 49, the user grips this lower base housing 10. In addition, a battery 34 is housed inside the lower base housing 10 with its longitudinal direction approximately aligned with the Z direction (vertical direction).

[0300] Here, the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 48 and 49 is a six-blade electric razor composed of two net blade blocks 51, two finishing net blade blocks 52, and two slit blade blocks 53.

[0301] Furthermore, in the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 48 and 49, the base (main body) D is equipped with a drying means 100 for drying the non-waterproof space S6, and the drying means 100 is equipped with a film heater (heat-generating element) 101 for generating heat. Specifically, in the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 48 and 49, a non-waterproof space S6 is formed above the top wall body 421 that defines the upper side of the head body F1 in which the linear motor (motor) 43 is housed, with the blade E partially exposed, allowing the ingress of liquids such as water to be permitted. Above the top wall body 421, a drying means 100 is provided, which includes a film heater (heat-generating element) 101 for generating heat, and a heat-dissipating element 102 that receives the heat generated by the film heater (heat-generating element) 101 and dissipates it into the non-waterproof space S6. Furthermore, in the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 48 and 49, the pressing plate 422 is also used as a heat dissipation member 102.

[0302] As described above, the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in Figures 48 and 49 has a drying means 100 that has substantially the same configuration as the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in the above embodiment.

[0303] By using such an electric razor (hair removal device) A, it is possible to achieve almost the same action and effect as the electric razor (hair removal device) A shown in the above embodiment.

[0304] Furthermore, a small shaver that fits in the palm U21 of the user U, that is, an electric razor that can be used while the main body is wrapped in the palm U21, can also be a six-blade electric razor.

[0305] In the above embodiment and its modifications, a single sheet-like film heater (heating element) 101 with through holes for inserting a pair of drive elements 4324 was used as an example. However, the shape of the film heater (heating element) 101 is not limited to this shape and can be made into various shapes.

[0306] For example, as shown in Figure 50, the film heater (heating element) 101 can be a roughly rectangular sheet. Figure 50 illustrates an example in which two roughly rectangular sheet-like film heaters (heating elements) 101 are arranged on both sides of the driver 4324 in the Y direction (width direction).

[0307] Furthermore, the shape of the film heater (heating element) 101 can be as shown in Figure 51. The film heater (heating element) 101 shown in Figure 51 comprises a pair of meandering sections 101a formed on both sides in the Y direction (width direction) and a connecting section 101b that connects the rear ends of the pair of meandering sections 101a. The connecting section 101b is positioned to wrap around to the rear of the driver 4324, while the pair of meandering sections 101a are positioned on both sides of the driver 4324 in the Y direction (width direction). Although Figure 51 illustrates a configuration in which the meandering sections 101a meander in the Y direction (width direction), the direction of meandering can be in various directions, such as the X direction (front-back direction). It is also possible to form the meandering sections 101a by making them meander in a spiral shape. Furthermore, Figure 51 illustrates a configuration where the thickness of the lines in the meandering section 101a and the connecting section 101b are approximately the same, but it is also possible to make the thickness of the lines in the meandering section 101a and the connecting section 101b different. It is also possible to connect two roughly rectangular, sheet-like film heaters (heating elements) 101, as shown in Figure 50, using the connecting section.

[0308] Furthermore, while the above embodiment and its modifications illustrate a configuration in which the entire film heater (heating element) 101 is covered by the heat dissipation element 102, it is also possible to expose a portion of the film heater (heating element) 101 from the heat dissipation element 102, as shown in Figures 52 and 53. Figures 52 and 53 illustrate a configuration in which two film heaters (heating elements) 101 are arranged on both sides of the driver element 4324 in the Y direction (width direction), with the outer ends 101c in the Y direction (width direction) exposed from the heat dissipation element 102. It should also be noted that the two film heaters (heating elements) 101 shown in Figures 52 and 53 can be connected by a connecting portion.

[0309] Furthermore, it is also possible to expose a portion of the film heater (heating element) 101 shown in the above embodiment and its modified form, the film heater (heating element) 101 shown in Figure 50, and the film heater (heating element) 101 shown in Figure 51 from the heat dissipation element 102.

[0310] (Note) The above description of embodiments discloses the following technologies.

[0311] (Technical 1) A hair removal device comprising a main body, a blade provided in the main body and capable of removing hair, and a motor built into the main body for driving the blade, wherein the main body has a waterproof space in which the motor is housed and the ingress of liquid is suppressed, and a non-waterproof space in which the blade is arranged with a portion exposed and the ingress of liquid is permitted, and the main body is equipped with a drying means for drying the non-waterproof space, and the drying means is equipped with a heating element that generates heat.

[0312] Thus, in the hair removal device of Technology 1, the blade is positioned with a portion exposed, and the main body is equipped with a drying means for drying the non-waterproof space where liquid ingress is permitted, and the drying means is equipped with a heating element. In this way, after washing the blade with a liquid such as water, any liquid remaining in the non-waterproof space can be evaporated by the drying means, thereby drying the non-waterproof space. This makes it possible to more reliably suppress the retention of liquid in the non-waterproof space where the blade is positioned with a portion exposed. As a result, it becomes possible to suppress the generation of unpleasant odors caused by liquid remaining in the non-waterproof space, and the hair removal device can be used more hygienically.

[0313] (Technical 2) The hair removal device according to Technical 1, wherein the drying means is configured to operate when the motor is not driven.

[0314] This allows the non-waterproof space to dry after the hair removal device has been cleaned and is not currently being used for hair removal.

[0315] (Technical 3) The hair removal device according to Technical 1 or Technical 2, wherein the main body is provided with a partition wall that defines the non-waterproof space, and the drying means is provided in the partition wall.

[0316] In this way, by providing the drying means in a partition wall that defines a non-waterproof space, it becomes possible to more reliably suppress the heat generated by the drying means from affecting the motor.

[0317] (Technology 4) A hair removal device according to any one of the technologies 1 to 3, wherein the blade portion comprises an outer blade positioned so as to be partially exposed to the non-waterproof space, and an inner blade positioned within the non-waterproof space and sliding in contact with the outer blade, and the drying means is positioned below the inner blade, with the inner blade positioned below the outer blade.

[0318] This allows the heat generated by the drying process and rising within the non-waterproof space to be directed onto the inner blade, enabling more efficient evaporation of any liquid adhering to the inner blade. As a result, it becomes possible to more reliably prevent any liquid from remaining in the non-waterproof space.

[0319] (Technology 5) A hair removal device according to any one of the technologies 1 to 4, wherein the drying means includes a heat dissipation member that transfers the heat generated by the heating element to the non-waterproof space.

[0320] This approach allows heat generated by the heat-generating components to be dissipated from the heat-dissipating components to a wider area of ​​the non-waterproof space, even when the placement of the heat-generating components is limited. This improves the flexibility of the heat-generating components' placement while allowing the non-waterproof space to be dried more efficiently.

[0321] (Technical 6) The hair removal device according to Technical 5, wherein the main body is provided with a partition wall that defines the non-waterproof space, and the heat dissipation member is provided with the partition wall such that at least a portion of it is exposed to the non-waterproof space.

[0322] This allows the heat generated by the heat-generating component to be more efficiently dissipated from the heat-dissipating component to the non-waterproof space, thereby more reliably preventing liquid from remaining in the non-waterproof space.

[0323] (Technical 7) The hair removal device according to Technical 6, wherein the heat-generating member is disposed between the heat-dissipating member and the partition wall.

[0324] This allows the heat generated by the heat-generating component to be directly transferred to the heat-dissipating component, enabling more efficient heat dissipation from the heat-dissipating component to the non-waterproof space. As a result, it becomes possible to more reliably prevent liquid from remaining in the non-waterproof space.

[0325] (Technical 8) The hair removal device according to Technical 7, wherein the entire heat-generating member is covered by the heat-dissipating member.

[0326] This prevents users from touching the heating element, making the hair removal device safer to use even when the blade is detachably attached to the main body, exposing the non-waterproof space.

[0327] [others] The contents of the hair removal device described herein have been explained above, but it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that the device is not limited to these descriptions and that various modifications and improvements are possible.

[0328] For example, this disclosure can be applied to embodiments in which the configurations shown in the above embodiments and their variations are modified, replaced, added, or omitted. Furthermore, it is possible to combine the components described in the above embodiments and their variations to create new embodiments.

[0329] Furthermore, while the above embodiments and their first, third, and fourth modifications illustrate an electric razor (hair removal device) A equipped with a protective cap C, it is also possible to apply the present disclosure to an electric razor (hair removal device) without a protective cap. Also, while the second modification of the above embodiments illustrates an electric razor (hair removal device) A without a protective cap C, it is also possible to apply the present disclosure to an electric razor (hair removal device) equipped with a protective cap.

[0330] Furthermore, although the above embodiment illustrates a first space S1 that is elongated in the Y direction (width direction), the first space S1 may be elongated in any direction as long as it extends horizontally when the blade portion E and the base portion (main body portion) D are aligned vertically. In other words, the first space S1 should be formed such that when the electric razor A, with the blade portion E and the base portion (main body portion) D aligned vertically, is viewed from any direction parallel to the horizontal direction, the horizontal length is longer than the vertical length. Therefore, it is also possible to have a first space S1 that is L-shaped in plan view.

[0331] Furthermore, the configuration for attaching the protective cap C to the device body B is not limited to the configuration shown in the above embodiment, and various configurations are possible. For example, it is possible to provide interlocking protrusions and recesses on the protective cap C and the device body B, and attach the protective cap C to the device body B by mechanical engagement.

[0332] Furthermore, in the above embodiments and their modifications, the hair removal device is exemplified in which the inner blades 512, 522, and 532 reciprocate linearly relative to the outer blades 511, 521, and 531. However, the present disclosure can also be applied to hair removal devices in which the inner blades rotate relative to the outer blades. In other words, regardless of the blade drive method, the present disclosure can be applied to any hair removal device that has a space into which water can enter for cleaning of the blades, etc.

[0333] Furthermore, while the above embodiments and their modifications illustrate an electric shaver (hair removal device) A in which the main body D has a waterproof structure, it is also possible to apply this disclosure to an electric shaver (hair removal device) in which the main body D does not have a waterproof structure. In this case, it is also possible to place the magnet attached to the protective cap in a space that is not waterproof.

[0334] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, a switch button (operator) 13 capable of switching the power on and off was provided as an example on the bottom wall 11 of the main body D, but the configuration is not limited to this, and it is also possible to provide a switch button (operator) on the peripheral wall.

[0335] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was given in which a charging section 3332 into which a charging cord 8 can be inserted is formed on the peripheral wall 12 of the main body D. However, the configuration is not limited to this, and it is also possible to form the charging section on the bottom wall.

[0336] Furthermore, while the above embodiment and its modifications illustrate an electric razor (hair removal device) A with five blades, the number of blades is not limited to five; it may be one to four blades, or six or more blades.

[0337] Furthermore, while the above embodiments and their modifications illustrate an electric razor 1 for cutting beards as a hair removal device, the present disclosure can be applied to various types of hair removal devices, not limited to the electric razor 1. For example, the present disclosure can be applied to a trimmer (electric hair cutting device) for cutting body hair or hair of a person or animal, or to a hair removal device for removing hair from a person or animal.

[0338] Furthermore, the specifications of the main body, blade, and other details (shape, size, layout, etc.) can be changed as needed. [Industrial applicability]

[0339] As described above, the hair removal device according to this disclosure can more reliably prevent liquid from remaining in the non-waterproof space where the blade is partially exposed, and therefore can be applied not only to beards but also to the treatment of various body hairs. [Explanation of symbols]

[0340] A. Electric razor (hair removal device) D Base (main body) E Blade 43 Linear motor (motor) 511 Net blade (outer blade: cutting edge) 512 Net inner blade (inner blade: cutting part) 521 Finishing net blade (outer blade: cutting edge) 522 Finishing net inner blade (inner blade: cutting part) 531 Slit outer blade (outer blade: cutting edge) 532 Slit inner blade (inner blade: cutting edge) 100 Drying means 101 Film heater (heating element) 102 Heat dissipation component 200 Bulkhead S3 Main body side waterproof space (waterproof space) S6 Non-waterproof space

Claims

1. The main body and The main body is provided with a blade capable of removing hair, A motor built into the main body drives the blade, Equipped with, The main body has a waterproof space in which the motor is housed and the ingress of liquid is suppressed, and a non-waterproof space in which the blade portion is positioned with a portion exposed and the ingress of liquid is permitted. The main body is equipped with a drying means for drying the non-waterproof space, The drying means includes a heat-generating element that generates heat. Hair removal device.

2. The drying means is configured to operate when the motor is not driven. The hair removal device according to claim 1.

3. The main body is equipped with a partition wall that defines the non-waterproof space, The drying means is provided in the partition wall. A hair removal device according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The blade portion comprises an outer blade positioned so as to be partially exposed to the non-waterproof space, and an inner blade positioned within the non-waterproof space and sliding in contact with the outer blade. With the inner blade positioned below the outer blade, the drying means is positioned below the inner blade. A hair removal device according to claim 1 or claim 2.

5. The drying means includes a heat dissipation member that transfers the heat generated by the heating element to the non-waterproof space for heat dissipation. A hair removal device according to claim 1 or claim 2.

6. The main body is equipped with a partition wall that defines the non-waterproof space, The heat dissipation member is provided in the partition wall such that at least a portion of it is exposed to the non-waterproof space. The hair removal device according to claim 5.

7. The heat-generating member is positioned between the heat-dissipating member and the partition wall. The hair removal device according to claim 6.

8. The entire heat-generating member is covered by the heat-dissipating member. The hair removal device according to claim 7.

Images