electric shaver

Abstract

To provide an electric shaver capable of giving a specific action to a target part.SOLUTION: An electric shaver includes a head part capable of making contact with a target part of a user, the head part including an electrically driven cutter unit capable of cutting hair in operation and action means for giving a specific action to the target part of the user with which the cutter unit makes contact based on electric power supplied from a power source. The action means includes, for example, a heater element which generates heat with flowing of a direct current and / or a pair of electrodes for generating electrical stimulation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to electric shavers. [Background technology]

[0002] Electric shavers having an iontophoresis device mounted on the head are known. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2010-510821 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Incidentally, if an electric shaver can exert a specific action on a target area of ​​a user when the head unit comes into contact with the target area, it is possible to expect effects corresponding to the specific action (for example, improved hair removal efficiency during shaving and appropriate skin care after shaving).

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide an electric shaver that can impart a specific effect to a target area. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In one aspect, the device includes a head portion that can contact a target site of a user, The head portion is An electric cutter unit, and an action means for applying a specific action to a target part of the user that comes into contact with the head portion based on the power supplied from a power source. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present disclosure, an electric shaver can be obtained that can exert a specific effect on a target area. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a front view schematically showing an example of an electric shaver according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a preferred example of a heating means. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an electrical system in the main body. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of the principle of the heating effect. [Figure 4] 10 is a schematic flowchart illustrating an example of processing executed by a control unit. [Figure 5] 10 is a schematic flowchart illustrating another example of processing executed by the control unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the entire head portion. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a part of the head portion. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the main holder portion alone. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram (part 1) illustrating the heating effect of the electric shaver shown in FIGS. 6 to 8. [Figure 10] FIG. 9 is a diagram (part 2) illustrating the heating effect of the electric shaver shown in FIGS. 6 to 8. [Figure 11] FIG. 9 is a diagram (part 3) illustrating the heating effect of the electric shaver shown in FIGS. 6 to 8. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a plan view schematically showing a film heater. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a wiring structure in a head portion. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a wiring structure in a head portion. [Figure 15] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a held portion of the base. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Each embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0010] 1 is a front view showing an example of an electric shaver 1 according to this embodiment. Hereinafter, "user" refers to the user of the electric shaver 1, and "target area" of the user refers to any area that can be contacted by the electric shaver 1, and typically corresponds to an area where hairs to be shaved exist. Hereinafter, "hair removal efficiency" refers to the hair removal efficiency of shaving with the electric shaver 1.

[0011] As shown in FIG. 1, the electric shaver 1 includes a main body 10 and a head 20.

[0012] The main body 10 houses an electric motor 11 and a battery 12. The electric motor 11 is a drive source for driving the electric shaver 1 and operates based on power from the battery 12. The electric motor 11 may be realized by a magnetic linear motor or the like. The battery 12 is an externally rechargeable battery and functions as an internal power source. In a modified example, the electric motor 11 may be operable by an external power source instead of or in addition to the internal battery 12.

[0013] The main body 10 may be provided with a user interface 15 that allows the user to input various types of information to the electric shaver 1. The user interface 15 may include mechanical buttons, touch switches, etc. The main body 10 may also be provided with a trimmer (not shown).

[0014] The head unit 20 is configured to be able to come into contact with a target area of ​​the user. The head unit 20 may be detachably attached to the main body unit 10. When the head unit 20 is detachable from the main body unit 10, cleaning of the head unit 20 becomes easier.

[0015] The head unit 20 may be supported so as to be displaceable relative to the main body unit 10. If the head unit 20 is displaceable relative to the main body unit 10, it becomes easier to bring the head unit 20 into close contact with the target area of ​​the user, thereby effectively improving hair removal efficiency. The head unit 20 may be displaceable with various degrees of freedom relative to the main body unit 10. For example, the head unit 20 may be supported relative to the main body unit 10 via an axial member 13. In this case, the head unit 20 may be tiltable or rotatable within a predetermined angle range around any direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the axial member 13. A ball joint may be used as the connection structure between the head unit 20 and the main body unit 10.

[0016] The head section 20 is provided with a cutter unit 21 and a heating means 22.

[0017] The cutter unit 21 is provided on the head unit 20 so as to come into contact with the target area of ​​the user when the head unit 20 is in contact with the target area of ​​the user. That is, the cutter unit 21 forms the part of the head unit 20 that comes into contact with the target area of ​​the user. Note that in a normal shaving use, the cutter unit 21 may be the only part of the head unit 20 that comes into contact with the target area of ​​the user.

[0018] The cutter unit 21 is an electric type driven by an electric motor 11. The cutter unit 21 has a blade that can cut hair when it is operating (driven). Therefore, when the cutter unit 21 operates with the head portion 20 in contact with a target area of ​​the user, the cutter unit 21 cuts hair that may be present in the target area (i.e., shaving is achieved).

[0019] The cutter unit 21 may be electrically driven and may move in any manner. For example, the cutter unit 21 may be a rotary type, a vibrating type (linear vibration type), or a combination of these.

[0020] The heating means 22 heats the target area of ​​the user that comes into contact with the cutter unit 21. By heating the target area of ​​the user that comes into contact with the cutter unit 21, the heating means 22 can help bring the condition of the target area (particularly the condition of the hair) of the user into a state suitable for shaving. For example, the heating means 22 achieves the same effect as when the target area is heated with a steamed towel. Hereinafter, such an effect by the heating means 22 is also referred to as the "heating effect."

[0021] The heating means 22 operates based on power from the battery 12. That is, the power supply voltage for the heating means 22 is generated based on the battery 12. In a modified example, the heating means 22 may be operable by an external power source instead of or in addition to the internal battery 12.

[0022] The heating means 22 may have any configuration as long as it can heat the target portion, and may include, for example, a heating element (e.g., a heating wire) that generates heat when a direct current is passed through it. In this case, the heating means 22 may be in the form of a film heater, a nichrome wire heater, or the like.

[0023] Alternatively, the heating means 22 may be a means for applying high frequency to the target site using a pair of electrodes 221, as described below. Also, the heating means 22 may be realized by a means for irradiating the target site with radio waves such as microwaves (ultra-short waves).

[0024] The heating means 22 is preferably provided over a relatively wide area of ​​the head unit 20 so that a relatively wide area of ​​the target site can be heated while the head unit 20 is in contact with the target site of the user. In this case, the heating means 22 may be arranged so as to occupy most of the portion of the head unit 20 that comes into contact with the target site of the user, excluding the cutter unit 21. For example, the heating means 22 may be provided so as to surround the cutter unit 21.

[0025] The heating means 22 is preferably provided in the head portion 20 in a manner that does not impair the adhesion between the cutter unit 21 and the target portion 900. For example, the heating means 22 may be configured to be slightly offset toward the main body portion 10 with respect to the cutter unit 21 (see Δ1 in FIG. 1). This reduces the possibility that the heating means 22 will cause a decrease in the adhesion between the cutter unit 21 and the target portion.

[0026] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a preferred example of the heating means 22. FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the electrical system in the main body 10. FIG. 2 also illustrates the electrical connection between the heating means 22 and the control unit 300. Note that wiring is schematically illustrated by solid lines. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of the principle of the heating effect, and is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the electric field (high-frequency current) generated in the target site 900 when a high-frequency voltage is applied. FIG. 3 schematically illustrates three hairs 901 in the target site 900, along with a pair of electrodes 221. Also, FIG. 3 schematically illustrates the state of the electric field generated in the target site 900 by the application of a high-frequency voltage, indicated by a dotted line E.

[0027] 2, the heating means 22 preferably includes a pair of electrodes 221, and applies a high-frequency voltage to the target site 900 of the user via the pair of electrodes 221. In this case, an electric field related to the high frequency is formed in the target site 900 via the pair of electrodes 221, and heating of the target site 900 by dielectric heating and / or Joule heat is realized.

[0028] When such a heating means 22 is used, the electric field associated with the high frequency can act relatively deep within the target area 900 (closer to the pores than the surface). This effectively opens the pores, and heat is also transmitted to the hair roots, softening the hairs 901. By applying a high frequency voltage to the pair of electrodes 221 in this manner, it becomes easier to efficiently bring the condition of the user's target area 900 (particularly the condition of the hair) into a state suitable for shaving, compared to using a heating element that generates heat by passing a direct current. In other words, the heating effect can be efficiently enhanced.

[0029] When the heating means 22 includes a pair of electrodes 221, one of the pair of electrodes 221 may be realized by a component forming the cutter unit 21 (the outer cutter portion 2131, as described later).

[0030] 2, the pair of electrodes 221 on the head unit 20 side is electrically connected to the control unit 300 on the main unit 10 side (and the battery 12 not shown in FIG. 2) via an electrical connection between the electrical contact 19 on the main unit 10 side and the electrical contact 29 on the head unit 20 side. In this case, there is no need to arrange the control unit 300 or a battery (e.g., a battery separate from the battery 12) on the head unit 20 side, making it possible to clean the head unit 20, etc. Note that the electrical contact 19 and the electrical contact 29 may be provided in pairs corresponding to the pair of electrodes 221.

[0031] The electrical contacts 19 and 29 may be disposed, for example, at a connection portion between the head unit 20 and the main body unit 10. For example, the electrical contacts 19 on the main body unit 10 side may be provided at or near a holding portion of the main body unit 10 that detachably holds the head unit 20, and the electrical contacts 29 on the head unit 20 side may be provided at or near a held portion of the head unit 20. In this case, the electrical contacts 19 and 29 are electrically connected when the head unit 20 is connected (attached) to the main body unit 10, and are electrically disconnected when the head unit 20 is detached from the main body unit 10.

[0032] Furthermore, the electrical contacts 19 and 29 may be located outside the connection portion between the head unit 20 and the main body unit 10 (at a position away from the above-mentioned holding portion). For example, the electrical contacts 19 and 29 may be realized by magnetic contacts that come into contact when the head unit 20 is connected (attached) to the main body unit 10. Alternatively, the electrical contacts 19 and 29 may be energized by non-contact energization (non-contact type energization). Alternatively, the electrical contacts 19 may be omitted, and the electrical contacts 29 may be connectable to an external power supply. In this case, the electrical connection between the electrical contacts 29 and the external power supply may be realized by a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connection or the like.

[0033] In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 2A, the control unit 300 may be electrically connected to the battery 12 in a parallel relationship with the electric motor 11. In this manner, the heating means 22 can be operated using the power of the battery 12, which is the power source for the electric motor 11. In Fig. 2A, the switch SW is a shaving switch (one element of the user interface 15) that turns on the electric motor 11.

[0034] FIG. 4 is a schematic flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the control unit 300.

[0035] In the example shown in FIG. 4, the heating means 22 always operates in conjunction with the operation of the cutter unit 21. Specifically, when the shaving switch (not shown) is turned on (YES in step S400), power supply to the electric motor 11 and the control unit 300 is started. In this case, when the cutter unit 21 is rotated by the operation of the electric motor 11, the control unit 300 starts applying a high-frequency voltage to the pair of electrodes 221 associated with the heating means 22 (step S402). In this case, the user can operate the heating means 22 when shaving with the cutter unit 21 without performing any special operation on the heating means 22, improving operability. Note that when the shaving switch (not shown) is turned off (YES in step S404), the power supply from the battery 12 is cut off, thereby stopping the electric motor 11 and the heating means 22. That is, the cutter unit 21 is stopped when the electric motor 11 is stopped, and the application of the high-frequency voltage to the pair of electrodes 221 associated with the heating means 22 is stopped.

[0036] 4, the operation of the heating means 22 starts substantially at the same timing as the start of the operation of the electric motor 11, but a significant delay may be set between the start timing of the operation of the electric motor 11 and the start timing of the operation of the heating means 22. For example, the start timing of the operation of the heating means 22 may be significantly earlier than the start timing of the operation of the electric motor 11 so that shaving can be achieved on the target area after it has been heated.

[0037] FIG. 5 is a schematic flowchart showing another example of the processing executed by the control unit 300. In FIG.

[0038] In the example shown in FIG. 5, the heating means 22 can operate independently of the operation of the cutter unit 21. Specifically, in step S500, the control unit 300 determines whether an operation start condition for the heating means 22 is met. The operation start condition for the heating means 22 is arbitrary and can be varied. For example, the operation start condition for the heating means 22 may be met when a heating switch (not shown) is turned on. In such a configuration, if the heating switch (not shown) is provided separately from the shaving switch (see switch SW in FIG. 2A), the heating means 22 can operate independently of the electric motor 11, which is activated when the shaving switch is turned on.

[0039] When the operation start condition of the heating means 22 is satisfied (YES in step S500), the control unit 300 starts operating the heating means 22, and then determines whether the operation end condition of the heating means 22 is satisfied (step S502). The operation end condition of the heating means 22 is arbitrary and may be various. For example, the operation end condition of the heating means 22 may be satisfied by turning off a heating switch (not shown). When the operation end condition of the heating means 22 is satisfied (YES in step S504), the control unit 300 stops applying high-frequency voltage to the pair of electrodes 221 of the heating means 22 (step S506).

[0040] Alternatively, in other embodiments, the electric motor 11 may have a variety of operation modes, such as a shaving only mode in which only the electric motor 11 operates, a shaving and heating mode in which both the electric motor 11 and the heating means 22 operate, and a heating only mode in which only the heating means 22 operates.

[0041] In another embodiment, the head unit 20 may include a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the heating means 22 or the target site, and in this case, the control unit 300 may control the heating means 22 based on temperature information from the temperature sensor. For example, the control unit 300 may control the heating means 22 so that the temperature indicated by the temperature information from the temperature sensor matches a predetermined target value. In this case, the predetermined target value may be constant, may be selectable by the user from one of multiple levels, or may be adjustable (customizable) by the user.

[0042] In another embodiment, the head unit 20 may include a contact or proximity sensor that detects contact with or proximity to the target site, and in this case, the control unit 300 may control the heating unit 22 based on sensor information from the contact or proximity sensor. For example, the control unit 300 may activate the heating unit 22 only when sensor information from the contact or proximity sensor indicates contact with or proximity between the head unit 20 and the target site.

[0043] In this embodiment, since the heating means 22 is provided in the head unit 20, it may be useful to have a configuration that can communicate to the user the operating state of the heating means 22. In particular, in a configuration in which the heating means 22 and the electric motor 11 can operate independently of each other as shown in Fig. 5, it is more convenient if the operating state of the heating means 22 can be communicated to the user.

[0044] Therefore, in this embodiment, the head unit 20 may be provided with a light emitting unit 70 (see FIG. 1). The light emitting unit 70 may be configured to emit light for transmitting information. For example, in the case where there are multiple operation modes as described above with reference to FIG. 5, the light emitting unit 70 may emit light of a different color for each operation mode. The light emitting unit 70 may be realized by a light emitting diode or the like.

[0045] Alternatively, the light irradiation unit 70 may function as a heating unit separate from the heating unit 22. Alternatively, the light irradiation unit 70 may irradiate light of a frequency that acts to damage hair roots. In this case, the on / off state of the light irradiation unit 70 and the output when on may be adjustable (customizable) by the user.

[0046] Next, an example of the head unit 20 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 6 and subsequent figures.

[0047] Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the entire head unit 20, and Fig. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the head unit 20. Fig. 8 is a perspective view showing the main holder unit 231 alone. Figs. 6 to 8 show three orthogonal axes (X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis) in a right-handed coordinate system.

[0048] In the example shown in FIGS. 6 to 8 , the head unit 20 includes a cutter unit 21 and a heating means 22, and three sets of each of the cutter unit 21 and the heating means 22 are provided. In a modified example, the number of sets may be other than three (for example, one, two, four or more). In the example shown in FIGS. 6 to 8 , the pair of electrodes 221 of the heating means 22 is formed by the outer cutter portion 2131 and the frame portion 224, as described below. The electrical connection between the three sets of heating means 22 and the control unit 300 (and the battery 12) may be realized by the electrical contacts 19 and 29 shown in FIG. 2 . In this case, six sets of electrical contacts 19 and 29 may be provided for the total six electrodes 221 associated with the three sets of heating means 22, but preferably, two sets of electrical contacts 19 and 29 are provided. In the case of two sets of electrical contacts 19 and 29, the six electrodes 221 associated with the three sets of heating means 22 operate in common. In this case, the electrical contact structure between the main body 10 and the head 20 can be simplified.

[0049] 6 to 8, the head portion 20 includes a base portion 230, a main holder portion 231 (an example of a holder portion), and a shaver holder 232. In the example shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, three sets of shaver holders 232 are provided together with a frame portion 224 described below corresponding to the three sets of cutter units 21. In FIG. 6, only one of the three sets is shown disassembled from the main holder portion 231. Each of the three sets may have a similar configuration, and the following description will only cover one set unless otherwise specified.

[0050] The base 230 can be detachably connected to the main body 10 (see FIG. 1). As described above, the base 230 may be supported by the main body 10 in such a manner that the head 20 is displaceable relative to the main body 10.

[0051] The base 230 has a rotating shaft 2301 that rotates in accordance with the rotation from the electric motor 11. A rotating shaft 2301 may be provided for each cutter unit 21. Therefore, in the example shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, three rotating shafts 2301 are provided. Each of the rotating shafts 2301 may be coupled to a shaft member 13 (see FIG. 1) that rotates integrally with the rotating shaft of the electric motor 11 via a power transmission mechanism (not shown) such as a gear so as to be able to transmit power.

[0052] The main holder part 231 holds the cutter unit 21 and the frame part 224 via the shaver holder 232. The main holder part 231 has an opening 2310 in which the shaver holder 232 is disposed.

[0053] The main holder part 231 is attached to the base part 230. The main holder part 231 may be fixed to the base part 230, but is preferably supported to be detachable or openable / closable relative to the base part 230. In the example shown in FIGS. 6 to 8 , the main holder part 231 is supported to be rotatable (openable / closable) around an opening / closing shaft 2302 of the base part 230. In this case, the main holder part 231 can be opened and closed relative to the base part 230 by rotating around the opening / closing shaft 2302. The closed state of the main holder part 231 is a normal use state, and the open state of the main holder part 231 may be realized to remove hair (cut hair) that may accumulate between the main holder part 231 and the base part 230.

[0054] The shaver holder 232 is made of, for example, resin, etc. The shaver holder 232 holds the cutter unit 21 and the frame portion 224. The shaver holder 232 may have a stopper portion 2321 that restricts movement of the cutter unit 21 to the negative side in the Y direction.

[0055] As can be seen from Fig. 6, the shaver holder 232 is attached to the main holder part 231. The shaver holder 232 may be fixed integrally with the main holder part 231, but is preferably supported so as to be displaceable relative to the main holder part 231. This makes it easier to bring the cutter unit 21 into close contact with the target area of ​​the user, thereby effectively improving hair removal efficiency. In the example shown in Figs. 6 to 8, as shown in Fig. 8, the main holder part 231 has a rotation shaft support part 2314 extending in one direction perpendicular to the rotation shaft part 2301, and supports the shaver holder 232 so as to be rotatable around the rotation shaft support part 2314.

[0056] In this embodiment, the cutter unit 21 is supported by the main holder part 231 via the shaver holder 232 as described above. The cutter unit 21 includes an outer cutter part 2131 and a rotatable inner cutter part 2132, as shown in FIG.

[0057] The outer blade 2131 has a contact surface 21311 on the positive side in the Y direction that can come into contact with the target area. The contact surface 21311 has a plurality of fine holes formed therein through which hair can enter, and the edges of the holes form the outer blade. The contact surface 21311 has the function of standing the hair by letting the hair enter the fine holes. Standing the hair makes it easier to cut the hair through the combination of the outer blade 2131 and the inner blade 2132. In the example shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, the outer blade 2131 has a cylindrical peripheral wall 21312, and the positive side in the Y direction of the peripheral wall 21312 is covered by the contact surface 21311. The inner diameter side of the cylindrical peripheral wall 21312 houses the inner blade 2132.

[0058] In this embodiment, the outer cutter portion 2131 is a conductor and is made of a conductive material. The outer cutter portion 2131 forms one of the pair of electrodes 221 of the heating means 22 described above with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Specifically, the contact surface portion 21311 of the outer cutter portion 2131 that comes into contact with the target site 900 forms one of the pair of electrodes 221 of the heating means 22 described above with reference to Figures 2 and 3.

[0059] The outer cutter portion 2131 may be made of one or more materials, or may be made of two or more materials. For example, the contact surface portion 21311 may be made of a relatively rigid conductive material such as metal, and the peripheral wall portion 21312 may be made of an insulating material such as resin.

[0060] The inner blade 2132 is non-rotatably connected to the rotating shaft 2301 and rotates integrally with the rotating shaft 2301. The inner blade 2132 is driven to rotate around the rotation axis of the rotating shaft 2301 by the electric motor 11. The inner blade 2132 has a plurality of cutter blades 21321 with cutting edges. The plurality of cutter blades 21321 are arranged so as to be adjacent to the contact surface 21311 of the outer cutter 2131 in the Y direction. In this case, when the inner blade 2132 rotates, hair passing through the holes in the contact surface 21311 is cut by a combination of the outer cutter and the cutter blades 21321 of the inner blade 2132.

[0061] The frame portion 224 forms an electrode ring provided around the cutter unit 21. That is, the frame portion 224 is disposed on the outer diameter side of the cylindrical peripheral wall portion 21312 of the outer cutter portion 2131. The frame portion 224 is supported by the main holder portion 231 via the shaver holder 232 as described above.

[0062] 6 to 8, the frame 224 is a conductor and is made of a conductive material. Specifically, the frame 224 forms the other of the pair of electrodes 221 of the heating means 22 described above with reference to Figures 2 and 3. That is, the frame 224 cooperates with the contact surface 21311 of the outer cutter 2131 to form the pair of electrodes 221 of the heating means 22 described above with reference to Figures 2 and 3.

[0063] By realizing a pair of electrodes 221 of the heating means 22 using such a frame portion 224 and the contact surface portion 21311 of the outer cutter portion 2131, it is possible to impart a heating effect to the entire area of ​​the target area that comes into contact with the contact surface portion 21311.

[0064] The frame 224 is spaced slightly apart from the outer cutter 2131 to prevent an electrical short circuit from occurring between the frame 224 and the outer cutter 2131. In the example shown in Figures 6 to 8, the frame 224 has an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the cylindrical peripheral wall 21312, and is spaced apart radially from the peripheral wall 21312. The shaver holder 232 also has a ring-shaped peripheral wall 2324 that protrudes in the Y direction, and the peripheral wall 2324 is positioned radially between the frame 224 and the outer cutter 2131. This reliably prevents an electrical short circuit between the frame 224 and the outer cutter 2131.

[0065] Figures 9 to 11 are explanatory diagrams of the heating effect of the electric shaver 1 in the example shown in Figures 6 to 8, and are cross-sectional views showing a schematic view of only the tip portion of the electric shaver 1 (the tip portion on the positive side in the Y direction) in relation to the target area.

[0066] FIG. 9 shows the state immediately before the head unit 20 of the electric shaver 1 comes into contact with a target area 900. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the target area 900 has many hairs 901 to be shaved, and shaving gel 902 has been applied to it. Shaving foam, lotion, or the like may be used instead of the shaving gel 902. By using shaving gel 902 or the like, the heating effect caused by the application of high-frequency voltage can be efficiently enhanced. In addition, the pores are widened, allowing moisture to penetrate into the pores and around the pores, softening the hair and making it easier to shave (i.e., reducing unshaved hair). In addition, the penetration of moisture into the target area 900 can prevent so-called shaving burn.

[0067] Figure 10 shows the state immediately after the head unit 20 of the electric shaver 1 comes into contact with the target location 900. In the examples shown in Figures 6 to 8, the frame unit 224 is used as the outer electrode 221, and the contact surface unit 21311 is used as the inner electrode 221, and a high-frequency voltage is applied to the target location 900. Note that in Figure 10, the path of such a high-frequency current is schematically shown by arrow R1000.

[0068] Figure 11 shows the state after the head unit 20 of the electric shaver 1 has come into contact with the target area 900 and the heating means 22 has been activated. In Figure 11, the heated area is schematically shown by the hatched area R11. In this way, according to the examples shown in Figures 6 to 8, it is possible to apply high-frequency current to the entire area of ​​the target area that comes into contact with the contact surface portion 21311. As a result, the heating effect of the heating means 22 can be efficiently imparted over a relatively wide area of ​​the target area.

[0069] 6 to 8, the electric shaver 1 configured to heat the target area 900 can efficiently provide a heating effect over a relatively wide area of ​​the target area 900. This can effectively improve hair removal efficiency.

[0070] 6 to 8, one of the pair of electrodes 221 of the heating means 22 is realized by the outer cutter portion 2131 (contact surface portion 21311), and the other of the pair of electrodes 221 is realized by the frame portion 224, so the heating means 22 can be realized with a relatively small number of parts. In other words, by using the outer cutter portion 2131, which is an existing part, the number of parts related to the additional parts for providing the heating means 22 can be reduced.

[0071] In the examples shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, one of the pair of electrodes 221 of the heating means 22 is realized by the entire contact surface portion 21311, but it may also be realized by only a part of the contact surface portion 21311.

[0072] Similarly, the other of the pair of electrodes 221 of the heating means 22 is realized by the entire frame portion 224, but may be realized by a part of the frame portion 224. For example, the frame portion 224 may be formed by insert molding using a resin and a metal material. In this case, the part of the metal material forms the electrode 221.

[0073] 6 to 8, the light irradiation unit 70 described above with reference to FIG. 1 may be provided around the cutter unit 21, i.e., on the frame portion 224. Alternatively, the light irradiation unit 70 may be provided on the outside of the frame portion 224. Alternatively, the light irradiation unit 70 may be provided at the end of the peripheral wall 2324 on the positive side in the Y direction.

[0074] 6 to 8, the frame 224 may be provided with a film heater 240 as another heating means 22, as shown in a schematic plan view in FIG. 12. In this case, the film heater 240 may be disposed on the frame 224 in a manner that does not impede the function of the frame 224 as the electrode 221. Alternatively, in this case, the paired electrode 221 may be eliminated, and the film heater 240 may function as the only heating means 22. Note that even when the film heater 240 is used, the wiring from the battery 12 or the control unit 300 may be as described above with reference to FIG. 2.

[0075] Next, an example of a wiring structure 90 in the head section 20 that can be applied to the examples shown in Figures 6 to 8 will be described with reference to Figures 13 and 14. In the following, for the purpose of distinction, when distinguishing between the three cutter units 21, (1), (2), and (3) will be added to the end of the reference numerals. Note that Figure 14 shows one of the cutter units 21 removed.

[0076] 13 and 14 are diagrams showing an example of a wiring structure 90 in the head unit 20. FIG.

[0077] The wiring structure 90 is an electrical connection structure that realizes an electrical connection between the pair of electrical contacts 29 and the pair of electrodes 221 shown in FIG. 2, and has a contact holder 291 that holds the pair of electrical contacts 29, as shown in FIG. 14. The contact holder 291 is detachable from a contact holder on the main body 10 (not shown). In this case, magnetic contacts using magnets may be realized. When the contact holder 291 is attached to the contact holder on the main body 10, the pair of electrical contacts 29 are electrically connected to the pair of electrical contacts 19 (see FIG. 2).

[0078] The wiring structure 90 includes a first wiring 91 (an example of wiring) having one end joined to one of the pair of electrical contacts 29, and a second wiring 92 having one end joined to the other of the pair of electrical contacts 29. The other end of the first wiring 91 is joined to one of the pair of electrodes 221, and the other end of the second wiring 92 is joined to the other of the pair of electrodes 221.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 13, the first wiring 91 includes a first lead portion 910 and two first crossover portions 911 and 912 (examples of wiring portions).

[0080] The first lead portion 910 passes from the outside to the inside of the main holder portion 231. As shown in Fig. 14, one end of the first lead portion 910 on the outside of the main holder portion 231 is joined to one of the pair of electrical contacts 29, and as shown in Fig. 13, the other end on the inside is joined to the outer cutter portion 2131 of one cutter unit 21(1). The first lead portion 910 may be joined to the back side (negative side in the Y direction) of the outer cutter portion 2131.

[0081] 13, one end of the first transition portion 911 is joined to the outer cutter portion 2131 of one cutter unit 21(1), and the other end is joined to the outer cutter portion 2131 of the other cutter unit 21(2). In this way, the outer cutter portion 2131 of one cutter unit 21(1) and the outer cutter portion 2131 of the other cutter unit 21(2) are electrically connected via the first transition portion 911.

[0082] 13, one end of the first transition section 912 is joined to the outer cutter section 2131 of the other cutter unit 21(2), and the other end is joined to the outer cutter section 2131 of the further other cutter unit 21(3). In this way, the outer cutter section 2131 of the other other cutter unit 21(2) and the outer cutter section 2131 of the further other cutter unit 21(3) are electrically connected via the first transition section 912.

[0083] In this way, the first wiring 91 electrically connects one of the pair of electrical contacts 29 to the outer blade portions 2131 of each of the three cutter units 21 that form one of the pair of electrodes 221 via the first lead-out portion 910 and the two first crossover portions 911, 912. This allows the three cutter units 21 that form one of the pair of electrodes 221 to be simultaneously energized via one of the pair of electrical contacts 29.

[0084] Similarly, the second wiring 92 includes a second lead-out portion 920 and two second crossover portions 921 and 922.

[0085] The second lead portion 920 passes from the outside to the inside of the main holder portion 231. As shown in Fig. 14, one end of the second lead portion 920 on the outside of the main holder portion 231 is joined to one of the pair of electrical contacts 29, and as shown in Fig. 13, the other end on the inside is joined to the frame portion 224 around one cutter unit 21(3). The second lead portion 920 may be joined to the back side (negative side in the Y direction) of the frame portion 224.

[0086] 13, one end of the second transition portion 921 is joined to the frame portion 224 around one cutter unit 21(3), and the other end is joined to the frame portion 224 around the other cutter unit 21(2). In this way, the frame portion 224 around one cutter unit 21(3) and the frame portion 224 around the other cutter unit 21(2) are electrically connected via the second transition portion 921.

[0087] 13, one end of the second transition portion 922 is joined to the frame portion 224 around the other cutter unit 21(2), and the other end is joined to the frame portion 224 around the further other cutter unit 21(1). In this way, the frame portion 224 around the other cutter unit 21(2) and the frame portion 224 around the further other cutter unit 21(1) are electrically connected via the second transition portion 922.

[0088] In this way, the second wiring 92 electrically connects the other of the pair of electrical contacts 29 to each of the three frame portions 224 that form the other of the pair of electrodes 221 via the second lead portion 920 and the two second crossover portions 921, 922. This allows current to flow simultaneously through the other of the pair of electrical contacts 29 to the three frame portions 224 that form the other of the pair of electrodes 221.

[0089] In the examples shown in Figures 6 to 8, as described above, each cutter unit 21 is supported so as to be displaceable relative to the main holder part 231, and can be displaced relative to the main holder part 231 depending on the shape of the target area 900 when the electric shaver 1 is in use.

[0090] 13 and 14, the lead-out portion 910 of the first wiring 91 is preferably configured to maintain a bonded state with one of the pair of electrodes 221 even when the cutter unit 21 is displaced relative to the main holder portion 231. Specifically, the lead-out portion 910 of the first wiring 91 preferably has a suitable amount of slack and flexibility to absorb displacement of the cutter unit 21(1) relative to the main holder portion 231. For example, the lead-out portion 910 may be configured with a solid or stranded electric wire, a flat cable, a conductive spring, or the like. This allows stable heating of the skin of the target location 900 even when the cutter unit 21(1) is displaced to match the irregularities of the target location 900 during use of the electric shaver 1.

[0091] Similarly, in the wiring structure 90 shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 , the first crossover portion 911 of the first wiring 91 is preferably configured to maintain a connection with one of the paired electrodes 221 at both ends of the first crossover portion 911 even when the two cutter units 21 are displaced independently of each other relative to the main holder portion 231. Specifically, the first crossover portion 911 of the first wiring 91 preferably has adequate slack and flexibility to absorb the independent displacement of the two cutter units 21 relative to the main holder portion 231. For example, the first crossover portion 911 may be configured using a solid or stranded electric wire, a flat cable, a conductive spring, or the like. This allows stable heating of the skin of the target area 900 even when the two cutter units 21(1) and (2) are displaced independently of each other in accordance with the contours of the target area 900 during use of the electric shaver 1. The same applies to the first crossover portion 912.

[0092] Unlike the cutter unit 21, the frame portion 224 is not displaceable relative to the main holder portion 231, and therefore the second wiring 92 may have a configuration with relatively little looseness or low flexibility.

[0093] Furthermore, according to the example shown in Figures 13 and 14, by having the first transition sections 911, 912 and the second transition sections 921, 922, even in a head section 20 having three cutter units 21, an efficient wiring structure 90 can be realized for pairs of electrodes 221 that are provided corresponding to each of the three cutter units 21.

[0094] 13 and 14, the pair of electrical contacts 29 on the head unit 20 side are held by a contact holder 291 separate from the connection portion between the head unit 20 and the main body 10, but this is not limited thereto. For example, the pair of electrical contacts 29 on the head unit 20 side may be provided at the connection portion between the head unit 20 and the main body 10, as described above. For example, the pair of electrical contacts 29 on the head unit 20 side may be provided at a held portion 2304 of the base 230 as shown in FIG. 15. In this case, the lead-out portion 910 of the first wiring 91 and the lead-out portion 920 of the second wiring 92 may be led to the base 230 using a rotating shaft portion 2301 or the like. In this case, a portion of the lead-out portion 910 of the first wiring 91 and a portion of the lead-out portion 920 of the second wiring 92 may be realized by a conductor portion that may be embedded in the base 230 by insert molding or the like.

[0095] In the example shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, a part of the first wiring 91 and a part of the second wiring 92 may be realized by a conductor portion that may be embedded in the main holder portion 231 by insert molding or the like.

[0096] Although each embodiment has been described in detail above, it is not limited to the specific embodiment, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the claims. It is also possible to combine all or a plurality of components of the above-described embodiments.

[0097] For example, in the above-described embodiment, the heating means 22 is disclosed as an example of an action means for imparting a specific action to the user's target area 900 with which the head unit 20 comes into contact. However, the action means for imparting a specific action to the user's target area 900 is not limited to the heating means 22. That is, instead of or in addition to the heating means 22, an action means capable of imparting a specific action other than a heating action may be used. In this case, the action means may include a pair of electrodes similar to the pair of electrodes 221, which generate electrical stimulation to the user's target area 900. In this case, the action means can also be operated by the pair of electrodes receiving power from a power source in the manner described above. In this case, the specific action based on electrical stimulation may include a high-frequency heating action, an action related to electrical muscle stimulation (EMS), an action related to iontophoresis, an action related to ion derivation, or any combination thereof. In this case, EMS is advantageous in that it can tighten the target area 900 while also treating sagging skin. Furthermore, ion derivation is advantageous in that it can remove dirt from pores in the skin at the target site 900, and iontophoresis is advantageous in that it can moisturize the skin at the target site 900. These specific actions are suitable for skin care after shaving.

[0098] In addition to the above disclosure, the following additional information is provided:

[0099] [Appendix 1] a head portion that can contact a target part of a user; The head portion is An electric cutter unit, and an action means for applying a specific action to a target part of the user that the head portion comes into contact with based on the power supplied from a power source.

[0100] [Appendix 2] The action means includes a heating element that generates heat when a direct current is passed through it, or a pair of electrodes that generate electrical stimulation, The electric shaver according to claim 1, wherein the specific action based on the electrical stimulation includes at least one of a high-frequency heating action, an action related to EMS, an action related to ion introduction, and an action related to ion derivation.

[0101] [Appendix 3] The cutter unit includes: an outer blade portion that can come into contact with a target part of a user; a rotary inner cutting blade portion having a plurality of cutter blades each having a cutting edge and rotatable about a rotation axis; 3. The electric shaver according to claim 2, wherein one of the pair of electrodes is realized by the outer cutter portion.

[0102] [Appendix 4] The electric shaver according to claim 3, wherein the other of the pair of electrodes is provided around the cutter unit.

[0103] [Appendix 5] a main body that houses an electric motor that operates the cutter unit; The electric shaver according to any one of appendices 1 to 4, wherein the head portion is attached to the main body portion in a detachable and displaceable manner.

[0104] [Appendix 6] 6. The electric shaver according to claim 5, wherein the operating means is supplied with power from a power source via contact between an electrical contact provided on the main body and an electrical contact provided on the head.

[0105] [Appendix 7] the electrical contacts of the head portion are provided on a holding portion that detachably holds the main body portion of the head portion, 7. The electric shaver according to claim 6, wherein the electrical contacts of the main body are provided on a held portion that is held by the holding portion.

[0106] [Appendix 8] the electrical contacts of the head portion are provided at positions separated from a holding portion of the head portion that detachably holds the main body portion, 7. The electric shaver according to claim 6, wherein the electrical contacts of the main body are provided at positions away from a held portion held by the holding portion.

[0107] [Appendix 9] the head portion further includes a holder portion that displaceably holds the cutter unit, One end of a wire, the other end of which is electrically connected to a power source, is joined to one of the pair of electrodes; 5. The electric shaver according to claim 3, wherein the wiring is configured to maintain a state of connection with one of the pair of electrodes even when the cutter unit is displaced relative to the holder portion.

[0108] [Appendix 10] The head portion has two or more cutter units, The electric shaver according to claim 9, wherein the wiring includes a wiring portion that electrically connects two or more of the cutter units to each other.

[0109] [Appendix 11] The electric shaver according to any one of appendixes 4 to 10, further comprising a light emitting unit provided around the cutter unit and configured to irradiate light onto a target area of ​​the user that comes into contact with the head unit.

[0110] [Appendix 12] The electric shaver according to any one of appendices 1 to 11, wherein the operating means always operates in conjunction with the electric rotation of the cutter unit.

[0111] [Appendix 13] The electric shaver according to any one of appendices 1 to 11, wherein the operating means is operable independently of the electric rotation of the cutter unit.

[0112] [Appendix 14] 14. The electric shaver according to any one of appendices 1 to 13, further comprising a control unit that controls the operating means. [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] 1 electric shaver 10 Main body 11 Electric motor 12 Battery 13 Shaft member 15 User Interface 19 Electrical contacts 20 Head 21 Cutter unit 22 Heating means 29 Electrical Contacts 70 Light irradiation unit 230 base 2301 Rotating shaft 2302 Opening and closing axis 231 Main holder part 2310 Opening 2314 Rotating shaft support 232 Shaver Holder 2321 Stopper part 2324 Peripheral wall 2131 Outer blade part 21311 Contact surface 21312 Peripheral wall part 2132 Inner cutting part 21321 Cutter Blade 221 Electrode 224 Frame 300 control section 900 Target Area 901 Hair 902 Shaving Gel

Claims

1. a head portion that can contact a target part of a user; The head portion is An electric cutter unit, and an action means for applying a specific action to a target part of the user that comes into contact with the head part based on the power supplied from a power source, The effecting means includes a heating means, The electric shaver, wherein the heating means is provided so as to surround the cutter unit.

2. 2. The electric shaver according to claim 1, wherein the heating means includes a heating element that generates heat when an electric current is passed through it.

3. A head portion capable of contacting a target area of ​​a user, The head portion is A rotating inner blade and an outer cutter provided to cover the inner cutter; a frame portion provided on the outer diameter side of the outer cutter portion; and an action means for applying a specific action to a target part of the user that comes into contact with the head part based on the power supplied from a power source, The action means includes a heating means, The heating means generates heat through at least one of the outer cutter portion and the frame portion.

4. 2. The electric shaver according to claim 1, wherein the heating means applies a high-frequency voltage to a target area of ​​the user via an electrode provided in the head portion.

5. Further comprising a main body portion on which the head portion is supported, The electric shaver according to claim 1 , wherein a tip of the heating means is offset toward the main body portion from a tip of the cutter unit.

6. The head unit further includes a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the heating means or the target part of the user, The electric shaver according to claim 1 , further comprising a control unit that controls the heating means based on sensor information from the temperature sensor.

7. The head unit further includes a contact or proximity sensor that detects contact or proximity with a target portion of a user, The electric shaver according to claim 6, wherein the control unit controls the heating means based on sensor information from the contact or proximity sensor.

8. The electric shaver according to claim 7, wherein the control unit activates the heating means only when sensor information from the contact or proximity sensor indicates contact or proximity between the head unit and a target area of ​​the user.

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