Hair removal device

Abstract

To provide a hair removing device capable of further improving opening / closing operability of a lid while moving a head relative to a body.SOLUTION: A hair removing device 1 comprises: a body 10; and a head 30 having a blade 331 that can cut hair and supported by the body 10 in a state where the head can be moved back and forth relative to the body 10 in a first direction. The head 30 is provided with a head housing 300 having a space S1 formed therein. An open window S1a communicated with the space S1 is formed in the head housing 300. Further, a lid 40 that openably covers the open window S1a is fitted to the head housing 300. An opening / closing direction of the lid 40 intersects a locus B1 drawn by the lid 40 when the head 30 is moved back and forth relative to the body 10 in the first direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 17

Description

Technical Field

[0006] ,

[0007] ,

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as shown in Patent Document 1 below, an electric razor (hair removal device) including a main body portion and a head portion supported by the main body portion is known.

[0003] In this Patent Document 1, the head portion has a blade portion, and a space portion capable of storing hair is formed inside the head portion. The head portion having the blade portion is supported by the main body portion in a state where it can swing in the width direction with respect to the main body portion. By doing so, the adhesion of the blade portion to the skin can be enhanced when using the electric razor (hair removal device).

[0004] Furthermore, in the electric razor (hair removal device) described in Patent Document 1, an opening window communicating with the space portion is formed in the head portion, and a lid portion that can open and close the opening window is attached to the head portion. By doing so, a liquid such as water can be introduced into the space portion from the opening window, or hair and liquid stored in the space portion can be discharged from the opening window.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] Thus, in a hair removal device configured to enhance the adhesion of the blade portion to the skin by relatively moving the head portion with respect to the main body portion, it is preferable to further improve the opening / closing operability of the lid portion.

[0007] Therefore, the present disclosure aims to provide a hair removal device that can improve the opening and closing operability of the lid while moving the head portion relative to the main body portion. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A hair removal device according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a main body and a head portion having a blade portion capable of cutting hair and supported by the main body in a manner that allows it to reciprocate relative to the main body along a first direction, wherein the head portion comprises a head housing having a space formed inside, the head housing has an opening window communicating with the space, and a lid portion is attached to the head housing so as to be openable and closable covering the opening window, and the opening and closing direction of the lid portion intersects with the trajectory traced by the lid portion when the head portion is reciprocated relative to the main body along the first direction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this disclosure, a hair removal device can be obtained that allows the head to move relative to the main body while further improving the opening and closing operation of the lid. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing an electric razor as an example of a hair removal device. [Figure 2] This is a front view of an electric razor. [Figure 3] This is a side view of an electric razor. [Figure 4] This is a perspective view showing a disassembled electric razor. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view showing the coupling mechanism of an electric razor from one direction. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view showing the coupling mechanism of an electric razor, disassembled and viewed from one direction. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view showing the coupling mechanism of an electric razor from a different direction. [Figure 8] It is a perspective view showing the state of the connection mechanism of the electric razor as seen from another direction, decomposed. [Figure 9] It is a perspective view showing a partial decomposition of the head part of the electric razor. [Figure 10] It is a perspective view showing the decomposition of the head cover part of the head part. [Figure 11] It is a perspective view showing the decomposition of the head base of the head part. [Figure 12] It is a front view showing the decomposition of the head part. [Figure 13] It is a side view showing the decomposition of the head part. [Figure 14] It is a perspective view showing a partial break of the electric razor. [Figure 15] It is a perspective view for explaining a method of connecting the head part to the link mechanism. [Figure 16] It is a side view for explaining a method of connecting the head part to the link mechanism. [Figure 17] It is a cross-sectional view showing the connection state between the head part and the link mechanism. [Figure 18] It is a figure for explaining the rocking of the head part in the front-rear direction, and is a cross-sectional view showing the state where the head part is located at the most front side. [Figure 19] It is a figure for explaining the rocking of the head part in the front-rear direction, and is a cross-sectional view showing the state where the head part is located at the central part. [Figure 20] It is a figure for explaining the rocking of the head part in the front-rear direction, and is a cross-sectional view showing the state where the head part is located at the most rear side. [Figure 21] It is a cross-sectional view showing a modification example of a method of supporting the head part so as to be rockable. [Figure 22] It is a figure for explaining an example of a method of forming an opening window in the head housing, and is a front view showing the state decomposed into the outer housing and the cover housing. [Figure 23] It is a figure for explaining an example of a method of forming an opening window in the head housing, and is a front view showing the state where the opening window is defined by the outer housing and the cover housing. [Figure 24] It is a perspective view showing the head part when the lid part is in the closed state. [Figure 25] It is a perspective view showing the head part when the lid part is in the open state. [Figure 26] It is a figure explaining the relationship between the swinging of the head part in the left - right direction and the opening - closing operation of the lid part, and it is a front view showing the head part according to the comparative example. [Figure 27] It is a figure explaining the relationship between the swinging of the head part in the left - right direction and the opening - closing operation of the lid part, and it is a front view showing the head part according to the embodiment. [Figure 28] It is a perspective view showing the lid part. [Figure 29] It is a front view showing the lid part. [Figure 30] It is a side view showing the lid part. [Figure 31] It is a cross - sectional view showing the lid part. [Figure 32] It is a cross - sectional view showing the head part when the lid part is in the closed state. [Figure 33] It is a cross - sectional view showing the head part when the lid part is in the open state. [Figure 34] It is a figure showing the positional relationship between the hook part and the locking part when the lid part is in the closed state. [Figure 35] It is a figure showing the positional relationship between the hook part and the locking part when the lid part is in the open state. [Figure 36] It is a figure showing the state where the engaging claw of the hook part is locked to the locking part when the lid part is in the closed state. [Figure 37] It is a figure showing the state where the engaging claw of the hook part is locked to the locking part when the lid part is in the open state using the hook part and the locking part according to the modification example. [Figure 38] It is a perspective view showing the head part when the lid part according to the modification example is in the closed state. [Figure 39] It is a perspective view showing the head part when the lid part according to the modification example is in the open state. [Figure 40] It is a figure showing the positional relationship between the hook part and the locking part when the lid part according to the modification example is in the closed state. [Figure 41]This diagram shows the positional relationship between the hook and the locking part when the lid of the modified version is in the open position. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] 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.

[0012] 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.

[0013] Furthermore, in the following embodiments and their modifications, an electric razor that cuts the user's beard (body hair) is used as an example of a hair removal device.

[0014] Furthermore, in the following embodiments and their modifications, the direction in which the multiple blade blocks are arranged side by side is described as the X direction (first direction: front-to-back direction: shaving direction), and the direction in which each blade block extends is described as the Y direction (second direction: left-to-right direction: width direction).

[0015] Furthermore, the vertical direction when the head unit (electric shaver) is positioned so that the skin contact surface faces upward will be described as the Z direction (vertical direction of the head unit 30). In this embodiment, the skin contact surface of the blade unit 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. Therefore, in the following embodiments and their modifications, the state in which the head unit (electric shaver) is positioned so that the skin contact surface faces upward is described as the state in which the skin contact surface faces upward when the head unit (electric shaver) is positioned so that the skin contact surface faces upward, and the tangent plane at the point that protrudes outward the most on the curved surface approximating the skin contact surface of the blade unit is a horizontal plane.

[0016] Furthermore, in the following embodiments and their modifications, the side facing the user when the user is holding the grip portion 111 of the electric shaver 1 during normal use is defined as the front side (forward in the X direction) of the electric shaver 1.

[0017] (Embodiment) First, we will explain the general configuration of the electric razor 1 by referring to Figures 1 to 4.

[0018] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the electric razor (hair removal device) 1 according to this embodiment comprises a razor body (main body part) 10, a head part 30 having a blade part 331 capable of cutting beards (hair) and supported by the razor body 10, and a connecting mechanism 20 for connecting the head part 30 to the razor body 10.

[0019] The razor body 10 is equipped with a body housing 11, the lower part of which is a long, narrow cylindrical shape with approximately the same diameter vertically. The upper part of the body housing 11 is a cylindrical shape that widens towards the top. The cylindrical portion of the body housing 11 with approximately the same diameter serves as a grip portion 111 that can be held by the user when using the electric razor 1. On the other hand, the cylindrical portion of the body housing 11 that widens towards the top serves as a connecting mechanism fixing portion 112 that can fix the connecting mechanism 20 in a state where at least the lower part is housed within it.

[0020] The main housing 11 can be formed by joining multiple divided parts together using screws or the like, and a cavity is formed inside the main housing 11. Various electrical components, such as a rechargeable battery, are housed in the cavity formed inside the main housing 11. The multiple divided parts can be formed using materials such as synthetic resin or metal.

[0021] Furthermore, a push-type power switch 1111 for operating the electric shaver 1 (turning the power on and off) is formed on the grip portion 111 of the main body housing 11. In this embodiment, a push-type switch is exemplified as the power switch 1111, but any switch that can turn the power on and off may be a slide type or other type of switch.

[0022] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the power switch 1111 is formed on the front of the main body housing 11 (grip portion 111), that is, on the front of the electric shaver 1. This allows the user to operate the power switch 1111 with their thumb while holding the grip portion 111 of the electric shaver 1.

[0023] Then, with the connecting mechanism 20 fixed to the connecting mechanism fixing part 112 of the main body housing 11, the head part 30 is supported by the connecting mechanism 20, so that the head part 30 is supported by the razor body 10. In this embodiment, the head part 30 is supported by the razor body 10 so as to be tilted upward and forward, with the extending direction of the razor body 10 substantially aligned with the vertical direction. In this way, when the extending direction of the razor body 10 is aligned with the vertical direction, the part of the blade part 331 that comes into contact with the skin (skin contact surface 33a, described later) is tilted forward and downward with respect to the horizontal plane, making it easier to apply the skin contact surface 33a to the user's skin when using the electric razor 1 by gripping the grip part 111. It is also possible to configure the head part 30 not to be tilted relative to the razor body 10.

[0024] Here, the head portion 30 is supported by the razor body 10 (connecting mechanism 20) in a state that it can move relative to the razor body 10 in at least one direction (such as reciprocating linear motion or oscillation).

[0025] In this embodiment, the head portion 30 is designed to swing in the Y direction relative to the razor body 10. Furthermore, the head portion 30 is designed to swing in the X direction relative to the razor body 10. In addition, the head portion 30 is designed to float in the Z direction relative to the razor body 10. This allows for better contact between the blade portion 331 and the skin when using the electric razor 1, enabling more efficient shaving (hair removal).

[0026] Furthermore, it is also possible to configure the head portion 30 to move relative to the razor body 10 in one or two directions. For example, it is possible to configure the head portion 30 to move relative to the razor body 10 in only one of the X, Y, and Z directions. It is also possible to configure the head portion 30 to move relative to the razor body 10 in any two of the X, Y, and Z directions.

[0027] In this embodiment, the coupling mechanism 20 includes a swinging mechanism that swings the head portion 30 in the X direction, a swinging mechanism that swings the head portion 30 in the Y direction, and a float mechanism that floats the head portion 30 in the Z direction.

[0028] Next, the specific configuration of the coupling mechanism 20 will be described with reference to Figures 5 to 8.

[0029] As shown in Figures 5 to 8, the connecting mechanism 20 is formed by assembling a plurality of divided parts, and includes a first connecting body 21 fixed to the connecting mechanism fixing part 112 of the razor body 10, a second connecting body 22 attached to the first connecting body 21, and a third connecting body 23 attached to the second connecting body 22.

[0030] The first connecting body 21 is a roughly rectangular box shape that opens upward and comprises a roughly rectangular plate-shaped bottom wall 211 and a peripheral wall 212 that is connected to the periphery of the bottom wall 211 and extends upward. As shown in Figure 8, a through hole 2111 is formed in the center of the bottom wall 211, penetrating in the Z direction (vertical direction), allowing lead wires for supplying power to the drive mechanism 315, which will be described later and is built into the head unit 30, to be inserted.

[0031] On the other hand, an outwardly projecting engagement rib 2121 is formed on the outer circumference of the peripheral wall 212. By engaging this engagement rib 2121 with the connecting mechanism fixing part 112 or by fixing it to the connecting mechanism fixing part 112 using screws or the like, the first connecting body 21 is fixed to the connecting mechanism fixing part 112 of the razor body 10. At this time, the first connecting body 21 is fixed to the connecting mechanism fixing part 112 in a state in which it cannot move relative to the razor body 10.

[0032] The second connecting body 22 is also a roughly rectangular box shape with an upward opening, and comprises a roughly rectangular plate-shaped bottom wall 221 and a peripheral wall 222 that is connected to the periphery of the bottom wall 221 and extends upward. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8, a through hole 2211 is formed in the center of the bottom wall 221, penetrating in the Z direction (vertical direction), allowing lead wires or the like to be inserted.

[0033] The second connecting body 22 is then inserted into the first connecting body 21 from above, thereby attaching the second connecting body 22 to the first connecting body 21. At this time, the second connecting body 22 is attached to the first connecting body 21 with a coil spring 24 interposed between the second connecting body 22 and the first connecting body 21. This allows the second connecting body 22 to float in the Z direction relative to the first connecting body 21.

[0034] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 6, upwardly projecting spring support protrusions 2112 are provided on both sides in the Y direction of the upper surface of the bottom wall 211 of the first connecting body 21, and as shown in Figure 8, downwardly projecting spring support protrusions 2212 are provided on both sides in the Y direction of the lower surface of the bottom wall 221 of the second connecting body 22. The upper and lower ends of the pair of coil springs 24 are inserted into the corresponding spring support protrusions 2112 and spring support protrusions 2212. In this way, the second connecting body 22 can be attached to the first connecting body 21 in a state that allows it to float relative to the first connecting body 21 in the Z direction.

[0035] Furthermore, the second connecting body 22 has a locking portion 223 formed thereon for locking the second connecting body 22 to the first connecting body 21, and the first connecting body 21 has a locked portion 213 formed thereon that locks the locking portion 223 of the second connecting body 22 to. By locking the locking portion 223 to the locked portion 213, the second connecting body 22 is prevented from coming loose from the first connecting body 21.

[0036] In this embodiment, a pair of locking portions 223 are formed on both sides of the second connecting body 22 in the Y direction, and each locking portion 223 comprises an arm portion 2231 extending downward from the Y-direction end of the bottom wall 221 and a locking claw 2232 connected to the lower end of the arm portion 2231 so as to protrude outward in the Y direction. On the other hand, a pair of locked portions 213 are formed on both sides of the first connecting body 21 in the Y direction, and each locked portion 213 comprises a frame-shaped locking wall 2131 with a through hole 2132 that penetrates in the Z direction.

[0037] Then, the tip (lower end) of the arm portion 2231 is inserted into the through hole 2132, and the locking claw 2232 is locked to the lower surface of the frame-shaped locking wall 2131, thereby preventing the second connecting body 22 from moving any further upward in the Z direction relative to the first connecting body 21. In this way, in this embodiment, the relative upward movement (float) of the second connecting body 22 relative to the first connecting body 21 is restricted by locking the locking claw 2232 to the lower surface of the frame-shaped locking wall 2131. In this embodiment, the movement of the locking claw 2232 below the lower surface of the locking wall 2131 is not restricted. Therefore, the second connecting body 22 floats relative to the first connecting body 21, with the position where the locking claw 2232 is locked to the lower surface of the locking wall 2131 as its upper limit (top dead center). In this embodiment, the second connecting body 22 moves relatively downward with respect to the first connecting body 21, and the state in which the second connecting body 22 abuts against the first connecting body 21 is the bottom dead center of the head portion 30.

[0038] Furthermore, an axis holding portion 2221 is formed on the upper part of the peripheral wall 222 of the second connecting body 22 to hold an axis 25 for swinging the third connecting body 23 in the left-right direction (Y direction).

[0039] In this embodiment, a pair of substantially disc-shaped shaft holding portions 2221 are provided on the upper parts of both sides of the peripheral wall 222 in the X direction (the upper parts of the front wall and the rear wall), and an insertion hole 2221a for inserting and holding a shaft 25 is formed in the center of each shaft holding portion 2221 so as to penetrate in the X direction.

[0040] Then, by connecting the second connecting body 22 and the third connecting body 23 with the shaft 25 held by the shaft holding part 2221, the third connecting body 23 is made to swing left and right (Y direction) relative to the second connecting body 22 around the shaft 25.

[0041] Therefore, the third connecting body 23 is attached to the first connecting body 21 (razor body 10) in a state that allows it to float in the Z direction and swing in the left-right direction (Y direction) relative to the first connecting body 21 (razor body 10).

[0042] In this embodiment, the third connecting body 23 is formed by assembling a plurality of segments and includes a lower segment 231 that is pivotably attached to the second connecting body 22 in the left-right direction (Y direction), and an upper segment 232 that is attached to the upper part of the lower segment 231. The third connecting body 23 also includes an intermediate segment 233 that is sandwiched between the lower segment 231 and the upper segment 232.

[0043] The lower split body 231 is equipped with a base portion 2311. A through hole 23111 is formed in the center of this base portion 2311, extending in the Z direction (vertical direction), allowing lead wires or the like to be inserted.

[0044] Furthermore, a pair of shaft holding portions 2312 are provided at both ends of the base portion 2311 in the X direction, and each shaft holding portion 2312 consists of two wall portions that are spaced apart in the X direction. A hole 2312a into which the shaft 25 is inserted is formed in each of the two wall portions. In this embodiment, the hole 2312a is formed in the wall portion formed on the outside in the X direction so as to penetrate in the X direction, and the hole 2312a is formed in the wall portion formed on the inside in the X direction so as to open on the outside in the X direction but not penetrate in the X direction. In this way, the movement of the shaft 25 inward in the X direction is restricted by the wall portion formed on the inside in the X direction.

[0045] Then, with the shaft holding portion 2221 of the second connecting body 22 inserted between the two wall portions which are spaced apart in the X direction, the shaft 25 is inserted into the respective holes 2221a and 2312a, thereby attaching the lower split body 231 to the second connecting body 22 in such a way that it can swing left and right (Y direction) around the shaft 25.

[0046] At this time, the lower split body 231 is attached to the second connecting body 22 with a coil spring 26 interposed between the second connecting body 22 and the lower split body 231. For this reason, as shown in Figure 8, spring receiving protrusions 23112 projecting downward are provided on both sides in the Y direction of the lower surface of the base portion 2311 of the lower split body 231, and as shown in Figure 6, a spring receiving protrusion 2213 is provided on the second connecting body 22 so as to project upward. The upper and lower ends of the pair of coil springs 26 are then inserted into the corresponding spring receiving protrusions 2213 and 23112.

[0047] In this way, by oscillating the lower split body 231 with the coil spring 26 interposed, it becomes possible to maintain the base 2311 of the lower split body 231 in a horizontal position when no force is applied to the lower split body 231 in a free state.

[0048] On the other hand, the upper split body 232 is a member that is fixed to the lower split body 231 by screws 27, with an intermediate split body 233 sandwiched between it and the lower split body 231, and is equipped with a base portion 2321. A through hole 23211 that penetrates in the Z direction (vertical direction) is formed in the center of this base portion 2321, allowing lead wires or the like to be inserted.

[0049] Furthermore, a pair of hanging walls 2322 are connected downward from both ends of the base 2321 in the X direction. As shown in Figure 8, these hanging walls 2322 have slits 23221 that extend in the Z direction, opening downward and inward in the X direction. When attaching the upper split body 232 to the lower split body 231, the outer end of the shaft 25 in the X direction is inserted into these slits 23221. In this way, the outward movement of the shaft 25 in the X direction is restricted by the hanging walls 2322.

[0050] The intermediate section 233 is sandwiched between the upper section 232 and the lower section 231, with vertical movement permitted. By operating the control element 113 shown in Figure 3, the intermediate section 233 is moved upward, so that the head section 30 is fixed by the intermediate section 233. This restricts the relative movement of the head section 30 with respect to the razor body 10.

[0051] Furthermore, the coupling mechanism 20 is equipped with a link mechanism 28 for swinging the head portion 30 in the X direction, and this link mechanism 28 is attached to the third coupling body 23.

[0052] In this way, by providing a link mechanism 28 that allows the head portion 30 to swing in the X direction on the third connecting body 23, which is capable of floating up and down and swinging left and right relative to the first connecting body 21 (razor body 10), the head portion 30 can be moved independently relative to the first connecting body 21 (razor body 10) in three directions (X direction, Y direction, and Z direction).

[0053] In this embodiment, a pair of link mechanisms 28 are provided on both sides of the third connecting body 23 in the Y direction, and by connecting the pair of link mechanisms 28 to both sides of the head portion 30 in the Y direction, the head portion 30 is made to swing in the X direction relative to the third connecting body 23.

[0054] Each link mechanism 28 includes one fixed link 281 fixed to the third connecting body 23, and a pair of movable links 282 attached to the fixed link 281 in a manner that allows rotation in the X direction.

[0055] In this embodiment, the fixed link 281 includes a fixed portion 2811 fixed to the third connecting body 23, a support arm 2812 connected to the fixed portion 2811, and a pivot portion 2813 formed at the upper end of the support arm 2812, which mounts the movable link 282 in a manner that allows it to rotate in the X direction.

[0056] On the other hand, the movable link 282 comprises a link body 2821, a connecting shaft portion 2822 provided at one end of the link body 2821 and rotatably mounted on the pivot portion 2813 of the fixed link 281, and a connecting end portion 2823 provided at the other end of the link body 2821 and connected to the head portion 30.

[0057] The fixing portion 2811 of the fixed link 281 has a through hole 2811a that penetrates in the Z direction. With the fixing portion 2811 sandwiched between the lower split body 231 and the upper split body 232, the lower split body 231 and the upper split body 232 are connected by inserting a screw 27 into the through hole 2811a, thereby fixing the fixed link 281 to the third connecting body 23.

[0058] Furthermore, the support arm 2812 is equipped with a lateral wall extending outward in the Y direction and a vertical wall connected to the lateral wall and extending upward (upward in the Z direction), and a pivot portion 2813 is formed at the upper end of the vertical wall of the support arm 2812. This pivot portion 2813 is formed to extend on both sides in the X direction from the upper end of the vertical wall of the support arm 2812, and two through holes 2813a that penetrate in the Y direction are provided in the pivot portion 2813 so as to be aligned in the X direction. By inserting the connecting shaft portions 2822 of a pair of movable links 282 into the two through holes 2813a, the pair of movable links 282 are mounted on a single fixed link 281 in a state that allows them to rotate in the X direction.

[0059] In this embodiment, the upper split body 232 is provided with an extended wall 2323 that extends outward in the Y direction, and the side wall of the support arm 2812 is held by this extended wall 2323. This suppresses misalignment of the fixed link 281 relative to the third connecting body 23.

[0060] Furthermore, the third connecting body 23 is equipped with a cover 234 that is attached to the extension wall 2323, and the side wall of the support arm 2812 is covered by this cover 234 and the extension wall 2323. In this way, the exposure of the side wall of the support arm 2812 to the outside is suppressed, and the design of the electric shaver 1 is enhanced. In this embodiment, the link mechanism 28 is connected to the head part 30 inside the head part 30, so that the exposure of the link mechanism 28 to the outside is suppressed as much as possible. In this way, the design of the electric shaver 1 is further enhanced.

[0061] Next, the specific configuration of the head unit 30 will be described with reference to Figures 9 to 20, 32 and 33.

[0062] In this embodiment, the head portion 30 comprises a head housing 300 and a blade unit 33 having a blade portion 331, which is detachably attached to the head housing 300. The blade unit 33 is held in the head housing 300 with a portion of the blade portion 331 exposed to the outside. In this way, the portion of the blade portion 331 that is exposed to the outside of the head housing 300 functions as a skin contact surface 33a that comes into contact with the skin of the user or the like when the electric shaver 1 is in use.

[0063] Then, the movable link 282 of the link mechanism 28 is connected to the head housing 300, and the movable link 282 is rotated relative to the fixed link 281 so that the head portion 30 swings in the X direction relative to the razor body 10.

[0064] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the head portion 30 is configured to be divided into multiple members, as shown in Figure 9, and includes a head base portion 31 attached to the connecting mechanism 20 and a head cover portion 32 that is detachably attached to the head base portion 31. In this embodiment, release buttons 314 are provided at both the left and right ends of the head base portion 31 so as to be able to protrude and retract, and by retracting these release buttons 314 inward, the attachment between the head cover portion 32 and the head base portion 31 is released.

[0065] The head base 31 includes a base housing 310, and in this embodiment, this base housing 310 is the lower housing of the head housing 300.

[0066] As shown in Figure 11, the base housing 310 comprises an outer housing 311 that opens upward and has a housing space formed inside, and an inner housing 312 that is housed within the housing space of the outer housing 311. This inner housing 312 also opens upward and has a housing space formed inside the inner housing 312 as well.

[0067] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the base housing 310 is equipped with a top wall 313, which covers the upper opening of the inner housing 312. The top wall 313 comprises a top wall body 3131 that closes the upper opening of the inner housing 312, and a retaining plate 3132 that presses the top wall body 3131 from above. The top wall body 3131 and the retaining plate 3132 are attached to the inner housing 312 with screws 3133.

[0068] As shown in Figures 32 and 33, the drive mechanism 315 is housed within the space defined by the inner housing 312 and the top wall 313. This drive mechanism 315 is equipped with a plurality of drive culms 316, which are housed within the head base 31 with the drive culms 316 protruding upward from the head base 31. Such a drive mechanism 315 can be a conventionally known one, such as a vibratory linear actuator or a drive mechanism composed of a rotary motor and a conversion mechanism that converts rotational motion into reciprocating linear motion.

[0069] Then, with the inner housing 312 housed within the space of the outer housing 311 and the drive mechanism 315 housed inside the inner housing 312, the top wall 313 is attached to the inner housing 312, and the inner housing 312 is attached to the outer housing 311, thereby forming the head base 31. In this embodiment, the inner housing 312 is attached to the outer housing 311 by screws 3133, which are used when attaching the top wall body 3131 and the retaining plate 3132 to the inner housing 312, as shown in Figure 11. That is, the top wall body 3131, the retaining plate 3132, the inner housing 312, and the outer housing 311 are fixed together by screws 3133. Note that the assembly procedure for the head base 31 is not limited to the procedure described above, and the head base 31 can be assembled by various procedures.

[0070] In this embodiment, the head portion 30 can be swung in the X direction relative to the razor body 10 by connecting the link mechanism 28 to the head base 31. At this time, the link mechanism 28 is connected to the head base 31 inside the head base 31.

[0071] Specifically, as shown in Figures 14 to 17, slits 311a extending in the X direction are provided on both sides of the outer housing 311 in the Y direction. By forming such slits 311a, the support arm 2812 (the vertical wall of the support arm 2812) of the fixed link 281 can be inserted into these slits 311a from below. Furthermore, by making the hole for inserting the support arm 2812 slit-shaped, the head portion 30 can be swung in the X direction without interfering with the support arm 2812.

[0072] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 15, slits 312a that penetrate in the Z direction are provided on both sides of the inner housing 312 in the Y direction. By forming such slits 312a, the connecting shaft portion 2822 side of the link body 2821 of the movable link 282 can be inserted into these slits 312a from below.

[0073] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 16, connection recesses 312b are formed on the lower parts of both sides in the Y direction and both sides in the X direction of the inner housing 312. With the connecting shaft portion 2822 side of the link body 2821 inserted into the slit 312a, the connecting end portion 2823 is introduced into this connection recess 312b, thereby placing the inner housing 312 on the movable link 282. In this way, the movable link 282 is connected to the inner housing 312.

[0074] In this embodiment, the movable link 282 is connected to the fixed link 281 in the state described above. Specifically, the inner housing 312, in which the connecting shaft portion 2822 of the link body 2821 is inserted into the connecting recess 312b while the connecting end 2823 is inserted into the connecting recess 312b, is housed in the outer housing 311 in which the support arm 2812 of the fixed link 2811 is inserted into the slit 311a, and the connecting shaft portion 2822 of the link body 2821 is inserted into the through hole 2813a of the pivot portion 2813, thereby connecting the movable link 282 to the fixed link 281.

[0075] In this way, the link mechanism 28 is connected to the head portion 30 from inside the head portion 30. Then, by supporting the head portion 30 on the razor body 10 via the link mechanism 28, the head portion 30 is made to swing along the X direction with a virtual axis A1 extending in the Y direction as the rotation center C1, as shown in Figure 17. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 17, when viewing the head portion 30 along the Y direction, the virtual axis A1 which becomes the rotation center C1 is located above (outside) the head portion 30. In this way, as shown in Figures 18 to 20, when the head portion 30 swings along the X direction, the entire head portion 30 moves to the same side (front or rear) in the X direction.

[0076] In this embodiment, the head portion 30 is shown as being supported at two points in a side view (viewed along the Y direction). However, as shown in Figure 21, it is also possible for the head portion 30 to be supported at a single point. Specifically, the head portion 30 is connected to a shaft portion 291 formed at the upper end of a support member 29 that extends in the vertical direction. In this way, when the head portion 30 is supported at one point in a side view (viewed along the Y direction), the shaft portion 291 coincides with the rotation center C1 of the head portion 30.

[0077] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 10, the head cover portion 32 includes a cover housing 321, and in this embodiment, this cover housing 321 is the upper housing of the head housing 300. The head cover portion 32 is formed by attaching the blade unit 33 to the cover housing 321.

[0078] Next, the specific configuration of the blade unit 33 will be described with reference to Figures 9 to 13, 32 and 33.

[0079] The blade unit 33 comprises three blade blocks and an outer blade case 334, with the three blade blocks arranged so that their longitudinal directions coincide with the Y direction and they are aligned in the X direction.

[0080] 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 (second direction: left-right direction) of the electric shaver 1, while their width direction substantially coincides with the X direction (first direction: front-back direction: shaving direction) of the electric shaver 1.

[0081] In this embodiment, the three blade blocks consist of two net blade blocks 332 and one slit blade block 333.

[0082] The net blade block 332 is primarily designed to remove beards (body hairs) that are lying flat or short and standing upright. The slit blade block 333 is primarily designed to remove thin, long beards (body hairs). Therefore, the electric shaver 1 according to this embodiment is a hair removal device that can remove thin, long beards (body hairs) with the slit blade block 333 and then finish with the net blade block 332.

[0083] In this embodiment, one slit blade block 333 is positioned in the center in the X direction, and two net blade blocks 332 are positioned on either side of the slit blade block 333.

[0084] As shown in Figure 9, the net blade block 332 comprises a net blade 3321 and an inner net blade 3322. In this embodiment, the net blade 3321 is formed in an inverted U-shape, curved so that the upper part is convex when viewed from the side (along the Y direction).

[0085] Furthermore, the net blade 3321 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 3321. It is also possible to configure the net blade 3321 not to be curved so that it is convex upwards when viewed from the front. For example, when the net blade 3321 is viewed from the front (viewed along the X direction), the top of the net blade 3321 can be made to be a straight line extending in the Y direction (outer blade length direction).

[0086] The inner net blade 3322 has an inverted U-shape that follows the curved shape of the net blade 3321 and is positioned inside the net blade 3321 (on the underside of the net blade 3321: opposite to the side of the net blade 3321 that contacts the skin). This inner net blade 3322 is detachably attached to one of the multiple drive stalks 316. When the electric shaver 1 is turned on and the drive stalks 316 are driven with the inner net blade 3322 attached to the drive stalk 316 and positioned inside the net blade 3321, the inner net blade 3322 slides against the inner surface of the net blade 3321 and is displaced relative to the net blade 3321 (relative movement: reciprocating in the Y direction).

[0087] As shown in Figures 32 and 33, the slit blade block 333 comprises a slit outer blade 3331 and a slit inner blade 3332. In this embodiment, the slit outer blade 3331 is formed by bending into an inverted U-shape such that the upper part is convex when viewed from the side (along the Y direction). Furthermore, when viewed from the side (along the Y direction), the top surface of the slit outer blade 3331 is formed to be substantially flat.

[0088] Furthermore, the slit outer blade 3331 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 3331, spaced apart in the Y direction. It is also possible to configure the slit outer blade 3331 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 3331 a straight line extending in the Y direction (outer blade length direction). In other words, it is possible to form the slit outer blade 3331 so that its top surface is a flat surface.

[0089] The inner slit blade 3332 has an inverted U-shape that follows the curved shape of the outer slit blade 3331 and is positioned inside the outer slit blade 3331 (below the outer slit blade 3331: on the opposite side from the side that contacts the skin). This inner slit blade 3332 is detachably attached to one of the multiple drive stalks 316 (a drive stalk 316 different from the drive stalk to which the inner net blade 3322 is attached). When the electric shaver 1 is turned on and the drive stalks 316 are driven with the inner slit blade 3332 attached to the drive stalk 316 and positioned inside the outer slit blade 3331, the inner slit blade 3332 slides against the inner surface of the outer slit blade 3331 and is displaced relative to the outer slit blade 3331 (relative movement: reciprocating in the Y direction).

[0090] Thus, the electric razor 1 according to this embodiment has the form of a reciprocating electric razor in which the net inner blade 3322 and the slit inner blade 3332 move back and forth relative to the net blade 3321 and the slit outer blade 3331. Therefore, in this embodiment, the blade section 331 comprises three outer blades (two net blades 3321 and one slit outer blade 3331) and three inner blades (two net inner blades 3322 and one slit inner blade 3332).

[0091] In this embodiment, all components except for two of the three inner net blades 3322 are mounted in a roughly frame-shaped outer blade case 334. At this time, each component may be mounted in the outer blade case 334 in a manner that prevents it from being detached, or it may be mounted in the outer blade case 334 in a manner that prevents it from being detached.

[0092] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the two net blade blocks 332 and the one slit blade block 333 are mounted on the outer blade case 334 in a state that allows them to float in the Z direction (vertical direction). This ensures that when the cover housing 321 (head cover portion 32) with the outer blade cassette 330 mounted on it is attached to the head base portion 31, each blade block floats separately and independently relative to the head portion 30. It is also possible to configure the blades so that one or more of the two net blade blocks 332 and the one slit blade block 333 do not float in the Z direction (vertical direction).

[0093] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 9, the two net blades 3321 can be mounted in the outer blade case 334 without the net inner blade 3322 positioned inside them. On the other hand, the single slit outer blade 3331 is mounted in the outer blade case 334 with the slit inner blade 3332 positioned inside it. In this way, in this embodiment, the outer blade cassette 330 is formed by mounting the two net blades 3321 and the single slit blade block 333 in the outer blade case 334. This outer blade cassette 330 is then detachably mounted in the cover housing 321.

[0094] Specifically, the cover housing 321 has a substantially cylindrical peripheral wall portion 3213 with an upper opening 3211 and a lower opening 3212. The outer blade cassette 330, with each outer blade facing upward, is inserted into the cover housing 321 from the lower opening 3212 side, thereby mounting the outer blade cassette 330 to the cover housing 321. At this time, the outer blade cassette 330 is mounted to the cover housing 321 with the surface of each outer blade exposed from the upper opening 3211 of the cover housing 321. Therefore, in this embodiment, the portion of the surface of each outer blade that is exposed from the upper opening 3211 of the cover housing 321 is the portion of the blade portion 331 that is exposed to the outside of the head housing 300. That is, the portion of the surface of each outer blade that is exposed from the upper opening 3211 of the cover housing 321 is the skin contact surface 33a that comes into contact with the user's skin (skin surface).

[0095] Furthermore, release buttons 3341 are formed on both the left and right ends of the outer blade case 334, and by operating these release buttons 3341, the attachment between the cover housing 321 and the outer blade cassette 330 is released.

[0096] A trimmer unit 317 is provided at the rear of the head base 31 (head portion 30). This trimmer unit 317 can also be provided on the razor body 10 instead of the head portion 30, or it is possible to have a configuration in which neither the head portion 30 nor the razor body 10 has a trimmer unit.

[0097] As described above, in this embodiment, with the two net inner blades 3322 each mounted on the drive culm 316 that protrudes upward from the head base 31, the cover housing 321 with the outer blade cassette 330 mounted on it is attached to the head base 31. When the cover housing 321 with the outer blade cassette 330 mounted is attached to the head base 31 with the two net inner blades 3322 each mounted on the drive culm 316, the two net inner blades 3322 are positioned inside the corresponding net blades 3321.

[0098] This ensures that when the electric shaver 1 is turned on, each inner blade is displaced relative to the corresponding outer blade (relative movement: reciprocating motion in the Y direction).

[0099] Then, the electric shaver 1 is turned on, and with each inner blade displaced relative to the corresponding outer blade, the skin contact surface 33a of the blade unit 33 is placed against the user's skin (skin surface) 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.

[0100] Furthermore, when the head cover portion 32 is attached to the head base portion 31 and the head portion 30 is assembled, a space portion S1 is formed inside the head portion 30, allowing the whiskers (hairs) cut by the outer blade and inner blade to accumulate in this space portion S1.

[0101] In this embodiment, the space S1 formed inside the head portion 30 is defined by the outer housing 311, the inner housing 312, the top wall 313, the cover housing 321, and the skin contact surface 33a, and the space S1 can be cleaned by removing the head cover portion 32 from the head base portion 31.

[0102] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the space S1 can be cleaned without removing the head cover portion 32 from the head base portion 31.

[0103] Specifically, an opening window S1a is formed in the head housing 300 that communicates with a space S1 in which cut whiskers can be collected. This opening window S1a can function as an inlet for introducing liquids such as water or cleaning solution into the space S1 when cleaning the whiskers (hairs) that have accumulated in the space S1, and as an outlet for discharging the whiskers (hairs) and liquids from the space S1.

[0104] In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 32 and 33, the space S1 has an upper space S2 located above the upper surface of the top wall 313, and a groove-shaped space S3 located below the upper space S2 and communicating with the upper space S2. An opening window S1a is formed in the head housing 300 so as to communicate with this groove-shaped space S3.

[0105] Specifically, by providing slits that incline forward and downward on both sides in the Y direction (left-right direction) on the front side of the top wall 313, a pair of inclined grooves S32 are formed between the top wall 313 and the cover housing 321. Furthermore, by providing slits that open forward and extend vertically at positions corresponding to the inclined grooves S32 on the front side of the inner housing 312, a pair of vertical grooves S31 are formed between the inner housing 312 and the outer housing 311, each communicating with the inclined grooves S32. Thus, in this embodiment, a pair of groove-like spaces S3 are formed on both sides in the Y direction (left-right direction) on the front side of the interior of the head housing 300, with their upper parts communicating with the upper space S2.

[0106] As shown in Figures 22 and 23, a notch 3111 is provided at the front upper end of the outer housing 311 so as to be recessed downwards. When the head cover portion 32 is attached to the head base portion 31, the opening window S1a is defined by this notch 3111 and the lower end 3213a of the cover housing 321. In this embodiment, the top wall 313 is formed to protrude above the outer housing 311, and the pair of inclined grooves S32 are formed above the upper end of the outer housing 311. Therefore, the opening window S1a defined by the notch 3111 recessed downwards at the front upper end of the outer housing 311 and the lower end 3213a of the cover housing 321 is formed below the pair of inclined grooves S32.

[0107] In this embodiment, a notch 3111 is provided so as to be elongated in the Y direction (left-right direction), and the opening window S1a communicates with a pair of groove-shaped spaces S3 on both sides in the Y direction (left-right direction). Therefore, in this embodiment, the opening window S1a opens forward in the front-rear direction (X direction: first direction) while facing the vertical groove S31 which is lower than the inclined groove S32.

[0108] Furthermore, the head housing 300 is fitted with a lid 40 capable of covering the opening window S1a, and as shown in Figures 24 and 25, the opening window S1a can be opened and closed by operating this lid 40. By operating the lid 40, it is possible to introduce liquid such as water into the space S1 from the opening window S1a, or to discharge hair and liquid accumulated in the space S1 from the opening window S1a, thereby enabling cleaning of the space S1 without removing the head cover 32 from the head base 31. This makes it easier to clean the space S1 and to introduce liquid into the space S1. In this embodiment, operating parts 416, which will be described later, are formed at both ends of the lid 40 in the Y direction (left and right direction), and the lid 40 can be operated by hooking a finger onto at least one of the operating parts 416.

[0109] In this embodiment, the opening window S1a is opened and closed by sliding the lid 40 along the surface of the head housing 300 (the opening surface of the opening window S1a). Specifically, the opening window S1a is opened and closed by sliding the lid 40 in a substantially vertical direction (Z direction), and the opening window S1a is closed by sliding the lid 40 upward.

[0110] In other words, by sliding the lid 40 upward, the opening window S1a is covered (closed) by the lid 40, so that the space S1 does not communicate with the outside through the opening window S1a. This prevents beards (hairs) accumulated in the space S1 from spilling out through the opening window S1a when using the electric shaver 1 or when the electric shaver 1 is placed on the cleaning device.

[0111] On the other hand, by sliding the lid 40 downward so that the opening window S1a is not covered by the lid 40 (can be opened), the space S1 is made to communicate with the outside through the opening window S1a. This makes it possible to introduce liquids such as water or cleaning solution into the space S1 from the opening window S1a when cleaning the whiskers (hairs) accumulated in the space S1, and to discharge the whiskers (hairs) and liquids inside the space S1 from the opening window S1a.

[0112] In this embodiment, the head portion 30 is supported by the razor body 10 in a manner that allows it to reciprocate (oscillate) relative to the razor body 10 along the X direction (first direction).

[0113] Therefore, when opening and closing the lid 40, if the lid 40 is moved along the trajectory B1 traced by the lid 40 when the head 30 swings, the force applied to the lid 40 becomes the force that moves the head 30, making it difficult to operate the lid 40 in the opening and closing direction.

[0114] Therefore, in this embodiment, even in an electric razor 1 in which the head portion 30 can be moved relative to the razor body 10, the opening and closing operability of the lid portion 40 can be further improved.

[0115] Specifically, as shown in Figure 17, when the head portion 30 is moved back and forth relative to the razor body 10 in the first direction (X direction), the lid portion 40 is moved in a direction that intersects with the trajectory B1 traced by the lid portion 40, thereby opening and closing the opening window S1a by the lid portion 40.

[0116] In this way, by applying a force to the lid 40 in a direction intersecting the trajectory B1, the lid 40 can be opened and closed. Furthermore, when force is applied to the lid 40 to open and close it, the component force in the direction along the trajectory B1 is minimized. This makes it possible to further suppress the relative movement of the head 30 in the first direction (X direction) relative to the razor body (main body) 10 when opening and closing the lid 40, thereby improving the operability of opening and closing the lid 40.

[0117] In this embodiment, as described above, the head portion 30 is configured to swing along the X direction while moving entirely to the same side in the X direction. Therefore, when the head portion 30 swings along the X direction, the lid portion 40 swings along the X direction in an arc centered on a virtual axis A1, which is the rotation center C1. Thus, in this embodiment, a part of the circle passing through the lid portion 40 with the virtual axis A1 as its center is the trajectory B1 traced by the lid portion 40 when the head portion 30 is moved back and forth relative to the razor body 10 along the X direction. As shown in Figure 17, this trajectory B1 is an arc that extends along the X direction.

[0118] In this embodiment, as described above, when viewing the head portion 30 along the Y direction, the virtual axis A1, which is the rotation center C1, is positioned above (outside) the head portion 30. Therefore, for example, when the head portion 30 is rotated forward in the front-rear direction, the entire head portion 30 moves forward in the front-rear direction. Consequently, even if the cover portion 40 is attached to any position on the head housing 300, the trajectory B1 traced by the cover portion 40 will be an arc extending along the X direction. By positioning the virtual axis A1 outside the head portion 30 in this way, the direction of the trajectory B1 of the cover portion 40 will not change depending on the attachment location, as would occur if the virtual axis A1 were located inside the head portion 30.

[0119] Therefore, by sliding the lid 40 up and down (sliding it towards the upper end of the cover housing 321 or towards the lower end of the outer housing 311), the opening window S1a can be opened and closed (opening and closing operation of the lid 40), so that the opening and closing direction of the lid 40 can intersect the trajectory B1 regardless of where the lid 40 is attached to the side of the head housing 300.

[0120] Therefore, in this embodiment, the opening window S1a is opened and closed (opening and closing operation of the lid 40) by sliding the lid 40 up and down. In this embodiment, the opening window S1a opens in the front-rear direction (X direction), and the opening window S1a and the lid 40 are formed on the front and rear surfaces of the head housing 300 which swings in the front-rear direction (X direction). In other words, the opening window S1a and the lid 40 are formed on surfaces that face each other in the direction in which the head housing 300 moves (swinging direction). Therefore, by sliding along the surface, the opening and closing direction of the lid 40 can be made to intersect the trajectory B1 even if the lid 40 is slid not only up and down but also in any direction. Thus, in this embodiment, the opening and closing direction of the lid 40 can be made to intersect the trajectory B1 more easily and reliably.

[0121] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the direction of the vertical sliding of the lid portion 40 is made to be close to the Z direction, which is substantially perpendicular to the trajectory B1 that extends along the X direction. In other words, the opening window S1a and the lid portion 40 are formed in a portion where the trajectory drawn by the vertical movement along the surface of the head housing 300 is substantially aligned with the Z direction.

[0122] In this embodiment, the head housing 300 has a substantially circular contour shape when viewed along the Y direction (second direction) of the head portion 30. Therefore, by forming an opening window S1a and a lid portion 40 in the center of the head housing 300 in the vertical direction, the direction of vertical sliding of the lid portion 40 is made closer to the Z direction. At this time, it is preferable that the angle θ1 between the trajectory B1 and the opening and closing direction of the lid portion 40 be in the range of 80 to 100 degrees. By making the angle θ1 closer to a right angle in this way, the component force in the direction along the trajectory B1 generated during the opening and closing operation of the lid portion 40 can be made smaller.

[0123] In this embodiment, if the trajectory B1 is curved, the angle between the tangent to the trajectory B1 at the location where the lid 40 is positioned and the direction in which the lid 40 moves when the opening and closing operation is performed at that location is angle θ1.

[0124] Furthermore, the angle θ1 between the trajectory B1 and the opening and closing direction of the lid 40 can be set in the range of 10 to 170 degrees, but it is preferable to set it in the range of 30 to 150 degrees, and more preferably in the range of 80 to 100 degrees.

[0125] In this embodiment, since the surface of the head housing 300 is curved so as to be convex outward, the size of the angle θ1 can be changed by shifting the position where the opening window S1a and the cover portion 40 are formed vertically.

[0126] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 17, the distance L1 from the rotation center C1 of the head portion 30 to the lid portion 40 is made shorter than the longest distance L2 from the rotation center C1 of the head portion 30 (the distance from the rotation center C1 to the lower end of the head portion 30).

[0127] This allows the position of the lid portion 40 to be brought closer to the rotation center C1 of the head portion 30. Furthermore, in this embodiment, when viewing the head portion 30 along the Y direction (second direction), the lid portion 40 is located inside a virtual circle C2 centered on a virtual axis A1 and passing through the connecting end portion 2823.

[0128] This makes it possible to bring the position of the lid 40 closer to the virtual axis A1, which is the rotation center C1 of the head 30. Therefore, when force is applied to the lid 40 to open or close it, the component force in the direction along the trajectory B1 will be generated at a position close to the rotation center C1 of the head 30. Consequently, in order to cause the head 30 to oscillate with the force applied to the lid 40 when opening or closing it, it becomes possible to apply a larger force to the lid 40 than when the lid 40 is positioned outside the virtual circle C2. As a result, the oscillation of the head 30 when opening or closing the lid 40 can be further reduced, and the operability of opening and closing the lid 40 can be further improved.

[0129] Even with the configuration shown in Figure 21, it is preferable that the distance L1 from the rotation center C1 of the head portion 30 to the lid portion 40 be shorter than the longest distance L2 from the rotation center C1 of the head portion 30 (the distance from the rotation center C1 to the lower end of the head portion 30). This makes it possible to further improve the opening and closing operation of the lid portion 40, even when the head portion 30 is supported at a single point.

[0130] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the head portion 30 is supported by the razor body 10 in a manner that allows it to swing relative to the razor body 10 along the Y direction (second direction).

[0131] Therefore, in this embodiment, when opening and closing the lid 40, the head 30 is less likely to swing relative to the razor body 10 along the Y direction (second direction).

[0132] Specifically, the force required to swing the head portion 30 relative to the razor body 10 along the Y direction (second direction) is made greater than in conventional designs. The force required to swing the head portion 30 in the Y direction (second direction) can be adjusted, for example, by adjusting the strength of the coil spring 26.

[0133] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the position of the rotation center C3 when the head portion 30 is swung in the Y direction (second direction) is positioned lower than in the conventional design.

[0134] In this way, by positioning the rotation center C3 lower than in the conventional design, it becomes possible to reduce the angle θ2 between the line connecting the rotation center C3 and the end of the lid 40 and the vertical line, as shown in Figures 26 and 27. As a result, the component force (F1 × sinθ2) in the direction of the force applied when the head 30 is swung in the Y direction (second direction) when a force F1 is applied to the lid 40 to open and close it becomes smaller. Here, the direction in which the head 30 is swung in the Y direction (second direction) is the direction perpendicular to the line connecting the rotation center C3 and the end of the lid 40.

[0135] In this way, by reducing the component force in the direction of the force applied when swinging the head portion 30 in the Y direction (second direction), it becomes possible to further reduce the oscillation of the head portion 30 along the second direction (Y direction) relative to the razor body (main body portion) 10 when opening and closing the lid portion 40. In other words, it becomes possible to make it even more difficult for the head portion 30 to oscillate along the second direction (Y direction) when opening and closing the lid portion 40. As a result, even when the head portion 30 is oscillated along the second direction (Y direction) relative to the razor body (main body portion) 10, the operability of opening and closing the lid portion 40 can be further improved.

[0136] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the head portion 30 is supported by the razor body 10 in a manner that allows it to float relative to the razor body 10 in the Z direction.

[0137] Therefore, in this embodiment, even when the head portion 30 is made to float in the Z direction relative to the razor body 10, the opening and closing operation of the lid portion 40 can be further improved.

[0138] Specifically, when sliding the lid 40 downward (opening operation), the float load of the head 30 in the Z direction and the operating load of the lid 40 during the opening operation are adjusted so that the lid 40 slides downward before the head 30 reaches its bottom dead center.

[0139] In this way, by allowing the lid portion 40 to slide downward before the head portion 30 reaches the bottom dead center, the amount of movement of the lid portion 40 during the opening operation is reduced. This improves the ease of opening and closing the lid portion 40.

[0140] In this embodiment, when the electric shaver 1 is not in use (when no force is applied to the head portion 30), the head portion 30 is positioned at the top dead center. This allows the lid portion 40 to be slid upward (closed) without being affected by the Z-direction float of the head portion 30.

[0141] Next, the specific configuration of the lid portion 40 will be described with reference to Figures 28 to 33.

[0142] In this embodiment, the lid portion 40 includes a lid body 41 that covers the opening window S1a in an openable and closable manner, as shown in Figures 30 and 31. This lid body 41 includes a substantially rectangular plate-shaped front wall 411, a substantially rectangular plate-shaped rear wall 413, and a connecting wall 412 that connects the front wall 411 and the rear wall 413 at the top.

[0143] Furthermore, a groove 414 opening downwards is formed between the front wall 411 and the rear wall 413, so that when the lid 40 is operated to open the opening window S1a, this groove 414 is inserted into the upper end of the outer housing 311. This ensures that the open state of the lid 40 is maintained.

[0144] Furthermore, the lid portion 40 has a closing portion 415 that is inserted into the vertical groove portion S31 and closes the groove-shaped space S3 so as to divide it vertically. As shown in Figure 32, this closing portion 415 is formed on the upper part of the lid portion 40, and when the lid portion 40 is slid upward to close the opening window S1a, the lower end of the inclined groove portion S32 is closed by the upper surface of the closing portion 415. In other words, when the opening window S1a is closed, the space portion S1 is formed only above the opening window S1a. This prevents the cut whiskers (hairs) from falling to the opening window S1a side when the opening window S1a is closed, and more reliably prevents clogging of the opening window S1a by the cut whiskers (hairs) and obstruction of the downward sliding (opening operation) of the lid portion 40 by the cut whiskers (hairs).

[0145] Furthermore, the lid body 41 has an elongated shape in the intersecting direction (Y direction) that intersects with the opening and closing direction (Z direction) of the lid portion 40. This increases the opening area of ​​the opening window S1a, allowing for more efficient introduction of liquids such as water into the space S1 from the opening window S1a, and for more efficient discharge of hair and liquids accumulated in the space S1 from the opening window S1a.

[0146] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 29, the lid body 41, which has an elongated shape in the Y direction, has operating parts 416 at both ends in the Y direction for operating the lid portion 40 in the opening and closing direction (Z direction: up and down direction). In other words, operating parts 416 for opening and closing the lid portion 40 are formed on both sides of the lid body 41 in the Y direction (crossing direction).

[0147] In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 32 and 33, the lid portion 40 is attached to the head housing 300 with at least a part of the lid body 41 protruding outward from the head housing 300. The lid portion 40 is opened and closed by hooking a fingernail (finger) onto the portions of the lid body 41 that protrude outward from the head housing 300 on both sides in the Y direction (crossing direction) and sliding the lid portion 40.

[0148] Specifically, the lid 40 is closed by hooking a fingernail (fingers) onto the parts of the lid body 41 that protrude outward from the head housing 300 at the lower ends on both sides in the Y direction (crossing direction) and sliding the lid 40 upward.

[0149] On the other hand, the lid 40 can be opened by hooking a fingernail (fingers) onto the parts of the lid body 41 that protrude outward from the head housing 300 at the upper ends on both sides in the Y direction (crossing direction) and sliding the lid 40 downward.

[0150] Thus, in this embodiment, the portions of the lid body 41 that protrude outward from the head housing 300 on both sides in the intersecting direction (Y direction) serve as operating parts 416 for opening and closing the lid 40 by hooking a finger onto them.

[0151] Furthermore, the amount of protrusion from the head housing 300 of the part into which a finger can be hooked when operating the lid 40 in the opening direction (downward in the Z direction) is smaller than the amount of protrusion from the head housing 300 of the part into which a finger can be hooked when operating the lid 40 in the closing direction (upward in the Z direction).

[0152] Specifically, the lid body 41 is formed such that the thickness D1 of the portion where a finger can be hooked when operating the lid 40 in the opening direction (downward in the Z direction) (upper end of the operating portion 16) is thinner than the thickness D2 of the portion where a finger can be hooked when operating the lid 40 in the closing direction (upward in the Z direction) (lower end of the operating portion 16).

[0153] In this embodiment, the lid body 41 is formed such that the thickness D1 is 1.0 mm and the thickness D2 is 1.5 mm.

[0154] Thus, in this embodiment, by changing the thickness of the top and bottom of the lid body 41, the amount of protrusion from the top and bottom can be made different simply by attaching the lid portion 40 to the head housing 300. In this way, the amount of protrusion from the head housing 300 of the portion where a finger can be hooked when operating the lid portion 40 in the opening direction (downward in the Z direction) can be made smaller than the amount of protrusion from the head housing 300 of the portion where a finger can be hooked when operating the lid portion 40 in the closing direction (upward in the Z direction).

[0155] Furthermore, by reducing the amount of grip the fingernail (finger) has when operating the lid 40 in the opening direction, it is possible to more reliably prevent the lid 40 from opening unintentionally. This makes it possible to more reliably prevent hair or liquid accumulated in the space S1 from spilling out through the opening window S1a.

[0156] By the way, when the head portion 30 is swung in the X direction (the front-to-back direction of the head portion 30) and the opening and closing direction of the lid portion 40 is in the Z direction (the up-and-down direction of the head portion 30), if the opening window S1a is closed by moving the lid portion 40 upward, the head portion 30 may be prone to swinging in the X direction when moving the lid portion 40 upward.

[0157] However, even in such a case, as in this embodiment, increasing the amount of protrusion from the head housing 300 of the part that can be hooked onto when operating the lid 40 in the closing direction (upward in the Z direction) makes it easier to operate the lid 40 in the closing direction (upward in the Z direction). As a result, it becomes possible to suppress the swinging of the head 30 in the X direction, and the opening and closing operability of the lid 40 can be further improved.

[0158] Furthermore, the operating section 416 is provided with a recess 4161, which can be used as a guide to open and close the lid 40.

[0159] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the opening window S1a is opened and closed by sliding the elongated lid portion 40 in the Y direction in the Z direction. Therefore, the lid portion 40 is equipped with a guide portion 42 that guides the movement of the lid body 41 in the opening and closing direction, making it easier and more reliable to move the lid portion 40 in the opening and closing direction.

[0160] Specifically, as shown in Figures 34 and 35, a pair of guide portions 42 are formed on both sides of the lid body 41 in the Y direction (crossing direction). These pair of guide portions 42 are formed to be elongated in the Z direction, and when the lid portion 40 is attached to the head housing 300, they are accommodated in the guide groove portion 3121 formed in the inner housing 312. When the lid portion 40 is operated in the opening and closing direction, it moves up and down (in the Z direction) while sliding against the inner housing 312.

[0161] In this embodiment, a pair of guide portions 42 are formed near the operating portions 416 that are formed on both sides of the lid body 41 in the Y direction (crossing direction).

[0162] Specifically, when viewing the lid 40 along the X direction, at least a portion of the guide portion 42 overlaps the operating portion 416 in the Z direction. That is, as shown in Figures 34 and 35, when viewing the lid 40 along the X direction, the guide portion 42 is formed such that at least one of its ends in the Y direction lies between one end and the other end of the operating portion 416 in the Y direction.

[0163] Furthermore, when viewing the lid 40 along the Y direction, it is preferable that at least a portion of the guide portion 42 overlaps the operating portion 416 in the Z direction, and it is more preferable that at least a portion of the guide portion 42 overlaps the operating portion 416 when viewing the lid 40 along the Z direction.

[0164] As described above, in this embodiment, guide portions 42 are provided near each of the operating portions 416 formed on both sides of the lid body 41 in the Y direction (crossing direction). By providing such guide portions 42, the rotation of the lid portion 40 when the operating portion 416 is operated to move the lid portion 40 in the opening and closing direction is suppressed by the guide portions 42, thereby enabling smoother opening and closing of the lid portion 40.

[0165] In other words, by forming guide portions 42 near the two operating portions 416 formed on both sides of the lid body 41 in the intersecting direction (Y direction), it is possible to increase the opening area of ​​the opening window S1a while suppressing any impairment to the opening and closing operability of the lid portion 40.

[0166] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a hook portion 43 is provided on the lid portion 40, and when the opening window S1a is closed with the lid portion 40, this hook portion 43 is releasably locked to a locking projection (locking portion) 3122 formed on the head housing 300.

[0167] Thus, in this embodiment, the closed state of the lid portion 40 is maintained by releasably locking the hook portion 43 to the locking projection (locking portion) 3122.

[0168] Specifically, as shown in Figures 34 and 35, a pair of hook portions 43 are formed on both sides of the center in the Y direction of the lid portion 40, and each hook portion 43 comprises an arm portion 431 extending downward and a locking claw 432 connected to the lower end of the arm portion 431 so as to protrude outward in the Y direction.

[0169] On the other hand, a pair of locking projections (locking parts) 3122 are formed in the portion of the inner housing 312 corresponding to the locking claw 432, and each locking projection (locking part) 3122 has a semi-circular curved surface 3123 that is convex inward in the Y direction.

[0170] As shown in Figure 36, when the lid 40 is closed, the lower inclined surface (first inclined surface) 4321 of the locking claw 432 is in contact with the upper surface (one side surface) 3124 of the protruding curved surface 3123. This prevents the lid 40 from moving any further downward in the Z direction relative to the inner housing 312. In this embodiment, the lid 40 can be kept closed by locking the lower inclined surface (first inclined surface) 4321 of the locking claw 432 to the upper surface (one side surface) 3124 of the protruding curved surface 3123.

[0171] Furthermore, when opening and closing the lid portion 40, the hook portion 43 is designed to overcome the protruding curved surface 3123.

[0172] Specifically, when the lid portion 40 is moved downward to open it, the hook portion 43 moves downward while the lower inclined surface (first inclined surface) 4321 of the locking claw 432 slides against the upper surface (one side surface) 3124 of the protruding curved surface 3123. At this time, the hook portion 43 slides against the upper surface (one side surface) 3124 while bending the arm portion 431 inward in the Y direction. Then, when the lower inclined surface (first inclined surface) 4321 passes the top of the protruding curved surface 3123 (the point located furthest inward in the Y direction) and goes over the protruding curved surface 3123, the hook portion 43 moves downward while the arm portion 431 moves outward in the Y direction due to the elastic restoring force.

[0173] Similarly, when the lid portion 40 is moved upward from the open state to the closed state, the hook portion 43 moves upward while the upper inclined surface (second inclined surface) 4322 of the locking claw 432 slides against the lower surface (the other side surface) 3125 of the protruding curved surface 3123. At this time, the hook portion 43 slides against the lower surface (the other side surface) 3125 while the arm portion 431 is bent inward in the Y direction. Then, when the upper inclined surface (second inclined surface) 4322 passes over the top of the protruding curved surface 3123 (the point located furthest inward in the Y direction), the hook portion 43 moves upward while the arm portion 431 is moved outward in the Y direction by the elastic restoring force. Then, the hook portion 43 is releasably locked to the locking projection (locking portion) 3122, and the closed state of the lid portion 40 is maintained.

[0174] As described above, in this embodiment, the head housing 300 has a protruding curved surface 3123 and a locking projection (locking part) 3122 that can lock the lid 40 in the closed position, and the lid 40 has a hook part 43 that can overcome the protruding curved surface 3123 when opening and closing the lid 40.

[0175] Furthermore, the hook portion 43 includes a lower inclined surface (first inclined surface) 4321 that contacts one side surface 3124 of the protruding curved surface 3123 before it passes over the protruding curved surface 3123 when the lid portion 40 is moved from a closed state to an open state, and an upper inclined surface (second inclined surface) 4322 that contacts the other side surface 3125 of the protruding curved surface 3123 before it passes over the protruding curved surface 3123 when the lid portion 40 is moved from an open state to a closed state.

[0176] Furthermore, by providing the hook portion 43 and the locking projection (locking portion) 3122, the lid portion 40 can be opened and closed with a click sensation.

[0177] In this embodiment, the inclination angle θ3 of the lower inclined surface (first inclined surface) 4321 with respect to the opening and closing direction (Z direction) of the lid portion 40 is made different from the inclination angle θ4 of the upper inclined surface (second inclined surface) 4322 with respect to the opening and closing direction (Z direction). This ensures that the operating load in the opening direction and the operating load in the closing direction of the lid portion 40 are different.

[0178] Specifically, the inclination angle θ3 of the lower inclined surface (first inclined surface) 4321 is made larger than the inclination angle θ4 of the upper inclined surface (second inclined surface) 4322.

[0179] In this way, by making the inclination angle θ3 of the lower inclined surface (first inclined surface) 4321 greater than the inclination angle θ4 of the upper inclined surface (second inclined surface) 4322, it becomes more difficult to move the lid 40 in the opening direction and easier to move it in the closing direction.

[0180] In this embodiment, the inclination angle θ3 of the lower inclined surface (first inclined surface) 4321 is set to 75 degrees, and the inclination angle θ4 of the upper inclined surface (second inclined surface) 4322 is set to be in the range of 20 to 45 degrees.

[0181] Furthermore, the downward force required to open the lid 40 is 400gf to 600gf, the upward force required to close the lid 40 is 200gf to 400gf, and the difference in operating force between opening and closing is 200gf.

[0182] This design ensures that the pressing force required to open the lid 40 is sufficient to prevent it from opening unintentionally due to tipping over, while still providing a secure hold that makes it easy to open. Furthermore, the pressing force required to close the lid 40 is designed to be as light as possible while maintaining a satisfying click sensation.

[0183] Furthermore, by making it difficult to move the lid 40 in the opening direction, it becomes possible to more reliably prevent the lid 40 from unintentionally opening due to contact with hands or other objects (such as the floor) when using the electric shaver (hair removal device) 1 or when cleaning with the cleaning device. It also becomes possible to more reliably prevent the lid 40 from unintentionally opening due to impacts such as when it is dropped. And by more reliably preventing the lid 40 from unintentionally opening, it becomes possible to more reliably prevent hair or liquid accumulated in the space S1 from spilling out through the opening window S1a.

[0184] On the other hand, by making it easier to move the lid 40 in the closing direction, and improving the operability during the closing operation, it becomes possible to suppress the head portion 30 from swinging when moving the lid 40 in the closing direction, thereby further improving the operability when moving the lid 40 in the closing direction.

[0185] Furthermore, as in this embodiment, by making the inclination angle θ3 of the lower inclined surface (first inclined surface) 4321 and the inclination angle θ4 of the upper inclined surface (second inclined surface) 4322 different, it becomes possible to make the operating load in the opening direction of the lid 40 greater than the operating load in the closing direction of the lid 40 with a simpler configuration.

[0186] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 37, by setting the inclination angle θ3 of the lower inclined surface (first inclined surface) 4321 and the inclination angle θ4 of the upper inclined surface (second inclined surface) 4322 to the same angle, and shaping the protruding curved surface 3123 so that the radius of curvature of one side surface 3124 is smaller than the radius of curvature of the other side surface 3125, it is also possible to make it difficult to move the lid 40 in the opening direction and easy to move it in the closing direction.

[0187] Figure 37 shows an example where the inclination angle θ3 of the lower inclined surface (first inclined surface) 4321 and the inclination angle θ4 of the upper inclined surface (second inclined surface) 4322 are the same. However, it is also possible to make the inclination angle θ3 of the lower inclined surface (first inclined surface) 4321 and the inclination angle θ4 of the upper inclined surface (second inclined surface) 4322 different. In other words, it is possible to make both the inclination angle and the radius of curvature different.

[0188] This also makes it possible to have a simpler configuration in which the operating load in the opening direction of the lid 40 is greater than the operating load in the closing direction of the lid 40.

[0189] Furthermore, the mounting position of the lid portion 40 does not have to be the position shown in the above embodiment; it can be mounted in various positions.

[0190] For example, the configuration shown in Figures 38 to 41 is also possible.

[0191] In the configuration shown in Figures 38 to 41, the head portion 30 includes a head base portion 31 supported by the razor body (body portion) 10, and a head cover portion 32 that is detachably attached to the head base portion 31 and covers the blade portion 331 with a portion (skin contact surface 33a) exposed.

[0192] In the configuration shown in Figures 38 to 41, the lid portion 40 that closes the opening window S1a in an openable and closable manner is attached to the cover housing 321 of the head cover portion 32.

[0193] Specifically, an opening window S1a is formed on the upper part of the trimmer unit 317 on the rear surface of the head housing 300, and a cover portion 40 is attached to the cover housing 321 so that this opening window S1a can be opened and closed. Note that the cover portion 40 only needs to be attached to the cover housing 321, and the cover portion 40 can be attached to any location on the peripheral wall portion 3213.

[0194] Furthermore, in the configurations shown in Figures 38 to 41, the opening window S1a is opened and closed by sliding the lid 40 along the surface of the head housing 300 (the opening surface of the opening window S1a). In the configurations shown in Figures 38 to 41, the opening window S1a is opened and closed by sliding the lid 40 in the vertical direction, and the opening window S1a is closed by sliding the lid 40 downward.

[0195] Furthermore, in the configurations shown in Figures 38 to 41, the opening and closing direction (Z direction) of the lid portion 40 is such that it intersects with the trajectory B1 traced by the lid portion 40 when the head portion 30 is moved back and forth relative to the razor body (main body portion) 10 along the first direction (X direction).

[0196] Furthermore, a hook portion 43 is provided on the lid portion 40, and when the opening window S1a is closed with the lid portion 40, this hook portion 43 is releasably locked to a locking projection (locking portion) 3214 formed on the head housing 300.

[0197] In this way, by attaching the lid 40 to the head cover 32, if the rotation center C1 is located above the head 30, the lid 40 can be brought closer to the rotation center C1, thereby improving the ease of opening and closing the lid 40. Furthermore, it becomes possible to make the head 30 more compact while also improving its aesthetic design. In addition, since an opening window S1a is provided near the blade 331, the blade 331 can be cleaned more efficiently.

[0198] Furthermore, since the lid portion 40 is provided near the blade portion 331, the blade portion 331 can be cleaned more thoroughly.

[0199] [Effects / Effects] The following describes the characteristic configuration of the electric razor (hair removal device) shown in the above embodiment and its modified form, and the effects obtained therefrom.

[0200] The electric razor (hair removal device) 1 shown in the above embodiment and its modified form comprises a razor body (main body portion) 10 and a head portion 30 that has a blade portion 331 capable of cutting hair and is supported by the razor body (main body portion) 10 in a state in which it can reciprocate relative to the razor body (main body portion) 10 along a first direction (X direction). The head portion 30 also comprises a head housing 300 in which a space portion S1 is formed inside, and an opening window S1a communicating with the space portion S1 is formed in the head housing 300. Furthermore, a lid portion 40 that can open and close covers the opening window S1a is attached to the head housing 300. The opening and closing direction (Z direction) of the lid portion 40 intersects with the trajectory B1 traced by the lid portion 40 when the head portion 30 is reciprocated relative to the razor body (main body portion) 10 along the first direction (X direction).

[0201] In this way, by supporting the head portion 30 on the razor body (main body portion) 10 in a manner that allows relative movement along the first direction (X direction) with respect to the razor body (main body portion) 10, it becomes possible to bring the blade portion 331 into closer contact with the skin when using the electric razor (hair removal device) 1. As a result, it becomes possible to shave (remove) beards (hair) more efficiently.

[0202] Furthermore, if an opening window S1a communicating with the space S1 is provided in the head housing 300, and this opening window S1a is covered by a lid 40 attached to the head housing 300 so as to be openable and closable, then by simply operating the lid 40, liquids such as water can be introduced into the space S1 through the opening window S1a, or hair and liquids accumulated in the space S1 can be discharged through the opening window S1a. As a result, it becomes possible to more easily clean the space S1 and to more easily introduce liquids into the space S1.

[0203] Furthermore, if the opening and closing direction (Z direction) of the lid 40 is set to intersect with the trajectory B1 traced by the lid 40 when the head 30 is moved back and forth relative to the razor body (main body) 10 in the first direction (X direction), then the lid 40 can be opened and closed by applying a force in the direction intersecting the trajectory B1 to the lid 40. In this way, by applying a force in the direction intersecting the trajectory B1 to the lid 40 when opening and closing the lid 40, it becomes possible to minimize the component force in the direction along the trajectory B1, thereby further suppressing the relative movement of the head 30 relative to the razor body (main body) 10 in the first direction (X direction) when opening and closing the lid 40. As a result, the operability of opening and closing the lid 40 can be further improved.

[0204] As described above, by using the electric razor (hair removal device) 1 shown in the embodiment and its modified form, the head portion 30 can be moved relative to the razor body (main body portion) 10, thereby increasing the contact of the blade portion 331 with the skin, while also improving the ease of opening and closing the lid portion 40.

[0205] Furthermore, the first direction (X direction) may be the front-to-back direction of the head portion 30.

[0206] This makes it possible to further improve the opening and closing operability of the lid 40, even in an electric razor (hair removal device) 1 in which the head portion 30 can be moved relative to the razor body (main body portion) 10 in the front-to-back direction.

[0207] Furthermore, the head portion 30 may be supported by the razor body (body portion) 10 in such a manner that it can move relative to the razor body (body portion) 10 along directions (Y direction, Z direction) that intersect with the first direction (X direction).

[0208] This makes it possible to further improve the opening and closing operability of the lid 40, even in an electric razor (hair removal device) 1 in which the head portion 30 can be moved relative to the razor body (main body portion) 10 in multiple directions. As a result, it becomes possible to obtain an electric razor (hair removal device) 1 that can further improve the contact of the blade portion 331 with the skin while further improving the opening and closing operability of the lid 40.

[0209] Furthermore, the head portion 30 may be supported by the razor body (main body portion) 10 so as to be able to swing along the first direction (X direction). The distance L1 from the rotation center C1 of the head portion 30 to the lid portion 40 may be shorter than the longest distance L2 from the rotation center C1 of the head portion 30.

[0210] This allows the lid 40 to be brought closer to the rotation center C1 of the head 30. As a result, when force is applied to the lid 40 to open or close it, the component force in the direction of the trajectory B1 occurs at a position close to the rotation center C1 of the head 30. Therefore, it becomes possible to prevent the head 30 from swinging unless a relatively large force is applied to the lid 40 when opening or closing it. In other words, in order for the head 30 to swing due to the force applied to the lid 40 when opening or closing it, a relatively large force must be applied to the lid 40. As a result, the swinging of the head 30 when opening or closing the lid 40 is suppressed, and the operability of opening and closing the lid 40 is further improved.

[0211] Furthermore, the head portion 30 may be supported by the razor body (main body portion) 10 via a connecting mechanism 20. The connecting mechanism 20 may also include a link mechanism 28 that causes the head portion 30 to swing along the first direction (X direction) with respect to a virtual axis A1 that extends in a second direction (Y direction) intersecting the first direction (X direction) with respect to the razor body (main body portion) 10. In addition, the link mechanism 28 may have a connecting end 2823 that is connected to the head portion 30. When viewing the head portion 30 along the second direction (Y direction), the cover portion 40 may be located inside a virtual circle C2 that is centered on the virtual axis A1 and passes through the connecting end 2823.

[0212] This makes it possible to bring the position of the lid 40 closer to the virtual axis A1, which is the rotation center C1 of the head 30. Therefore, when force is applied to the lid 40 to open or close it, the component force in the direction along the trajectory B1 will be generated at a position close to the rotation center C1 of the head 30. As a result, it becomes possible to prevent the head 30 from swinging unless a relatively large force is applied to the lid 40 when opening or closing it. In other words, in order for the head 30 to swing due to the force applied to the lid 40 when opening or closing it, a relatively large force must be applied to the lid 40. As a result, the swinging of the head 30 when opening or closing the lid 40 is suppressed, and the operability of opening and closing the lid 40 is further improved.

[0213] Furthermore, when viewing the head portion 30 along the second direction (Y direction), the virtual axis A1 may be located outside the head portion 30.

[0214] This allows the entire head portion 30 to be moved to the same side (front or rear) in the first direction (X direction) when the head portion 30 is swung along the first direction (X direction). In other words, the direction of the trajectory B1 will not change depending on where the cover portion 40 is attached to the head portion 30, as if the virtual axis A1 were located inside the head portion 30.

[0215] Therefore, it becomes possible to further improve the degree of freedom in the mounting position of the lid 40 to the head 30 and the degree of freedom in the opening and closing direction of the lid 40. For example, if the lid 40 is opened and closed by moving the lid 40 along the surface of the head 30, it becomes possible to ensure that the opening and closing direction of the lid 40 intersects the trajectory B1, even when moved along various directions. Furthermore, by making the lid 40 open and closed by moving the lid 40 along the surface of the head 30, it becomes possible to simplify the configuration while making the electric razor (hair removal device) 1 more compact.

[0216] Furthermore, the head housing 300 may be formed such that the opening window S1a opens in the first direction (X direction).

[0217] This allows the opening and closing direction of the lid 40 to intersect with the trajectory B1, even when the lid 40 is moved along the surface of the head 30, regardless of the direction it is moved in. Therefore, the opening and closing direction of the lid 40 can be made to intersect with the trajectory B1 more easily and reliably.

[0218] Furthermore, the operating load in the opening direction and the operating load in the closing direction of the lid portion 40 may be different.

[0219] This makes it difficult to move the lid 40 in the opening direction or in the closing direction. In this case, making it difficult to move the lid 40 in the opening direction makes it possible to more reliably prevent the lid 40 from unintentionally opening due to contact with hands or other objects (floor surface, etc.) when using the electric razor (hair removal device) 1 or when cleaning with the cleaning device. It also makes it possible to more reliably prevent the lid 40 from unintentionally opening due to impact when dropped. In this way, by more reliably preventing the lid 40 from unintentionally opening, it becomes possible to more reliably prevent hair or liquid accumulated in the space S1 from spilling out of the opening window S1a. Furthermore, the operability when moving the lid 40 in the closing direction is improved (it becomes easier to move the lid 40 in the closing direction), so it becomes possible to suppress the head part 30 from swinging when moving the lid 40 in the closing direction.

[0220] On the other hand, by making it difficult to move the lid portion 40 in the closing direction, it becomes possible to more reliably prevent the lid portion 40 from unintentionally closing when, for example, the lid portion 40 is in the open position while the space portion S1 is being washed with water.

[0221] Furthermore, the operating force required to open the lid 40 may be greater than the operating force required to close the lid 40.

[0222] This makes it more difficult to move the lid 40 in the opening direction, thereby more reliably preventing the lid 40 from opening unintentionally, and also improves the operability when moving the lid 40 in the closing direction.

[0223] Furthermore, at least one of the head housing 300 and the lid portion 40 may have a protruding curved surface 3123 and a locking projection (locking portion) 3122 that can lock the lid portion 40 in the closed state, and at least the other of the head housing 300 and the lid portion 40 may have a hook portion 43 that can overcome the protruding curved surface 3123 when the lid portion 40 is opened or closed. In addition, the hook portion 43 may include a lower inclined surface (first inclined surface) 4321 that contacts the protruding curved surface 3123 before overcoming it when the lid portion 40 is moved from the closed state to the open state, and an upper inclined surface (second inclined surface) 4322 that contacts the protruding curved surface 3123 before overcoming it when the lid portion 40 is moved from the open state to the closed state. Furthermore, the inclination angle θ3 of the lower inclined surface (first inclined surface) 4321 with respect to the opening and closing direction (Z direction) of the lid portion 40 may be greater than the inclination angle θ4 of the upper inclined surface (second inclined surface) 4322 with respect to the opening and closing direction (Z direction) of the lid portion 40.

[0224] This makes it possible to create a simpler configuration while ensuring that the operating force to open the lid 40 is greater than the operating force to close it. As a result, it becomes more difficult to move the lid 40 in the opening direction.

[0225] Furthermore, at least one of the head housing 300 and the lid 40 may have a protruding curved surface 3123 and a locking projection (locking part) 3122 that can lock the lid 40 in the closed position, and at least the other of the head housing 300 and the lid 40 may have a hook part 43 that can overcome the protruding curved surface 3123 when the lid 40 is opened or closed. In addition, the hook part 43 may include a lower inclined surface (first inclined surface) 4321 that contacts one side surface 3124 of the protruding curved surface 3123 before overcoming it when the lid 40 is moved from the closed position to the open position, and an upper inclined surface (second inclined surface) 4322 that contacts the other side surface 3125 of the protruding curved surface 3123 before overcoming it when the lid 40 is moved from the open position to the closed position. Furthermore, the radius of curvature of one side surface 3124 of the protruding curved surface 3123 may be smaller than the radius of curvature of the other side surface 3125.

[0226] This also makes it possible to create a simpler configuration while ensuring that the operating force to open the lid 40 is greater than the operating force to close the lid 40. As a result, it becomes more difficult to move the lid 40 in the opening direction.

[0227] The lid portion 40 may also include a lid body 41 that covers the opening window S1a in a manner that allows it to be opened and closed, and a guide portion 42 that guides the movement of the lid body 41 in the opening and closing direction.

[0228] This makes it easier and more reliable to move the lid 40 in the opening and closing direction.

[0229] Furthermore, the lid body 41 may have an elongated shape in the intersecting direction (Y direction) that intersects with the opening and closing direction (Z direction) of the lid portion 40, and operating parts 416 for opening and closing the lid portion 40 may be formed on both sides of the lid body 41 in the intersecting direction (Y direction). Guide parts 42 may also be formed near the operating parts 416.

[0230] This makes it possible to increase the opening area of ​​the opening window S1a, allowing for more efficient introduction of liquids such as water into the space S1 from the opening window S1a, and for more efficient discharge of hair and liquids accumulated in the space S1 from the opening window S1a. Furthermore, when operating the operating part 416 to move the lid part 40 in the opening and closing direction, rotation of the lid part 40 is suppressed, making it possible to open and close the lid part 40 more smoothly. In this way, by forming guide parts 42 near the two operating parts 416 formed on both sides of the lid body 41 in the intersecting direction (Y direction), it becomes possible to increase the opening area of ​​the opening window S1a while suppressing any impairment of the operability of opening and closing the lid part 40.

[0231] Furthermore, the lid portion 40 may be attached to the head housing 300 such that at least a part of the lid body 41 protrudes outward from the head housing 300. The portions of the lid body 41 that protrude outward from the head housing 300 on both sides in the intersecting direction (Y direction) may serve as operating portions 416 for opening and closing the lid portion 40 by hooking a finger. Moreover, the amount of protrusion from the head housing 300 of the portion that can be hooked when operating the lid portion 40 in the opening direction (downward in the Z direction) may be smaller than the amount of protrusion from the head housing 300 of the portion that can be hooked when operating the lid portion 40 in the closing direction (upward in the Z direction).

[0232] This makes it possible to more reliably prevent the lid 40 from opening unintentionally, and to more reliably prevent hair or liquid accumulated in the space S1 from spilling out through the opening window S1a.

[0233] Furthermore, since the shape of the lid body 41 that is exposed to the outside can be simplified, the design of the head portion 30 can be further improved.

[0234] Furthermore, when the head portion 30 is swung in the X direction (front-to-back direction of the head portion 30) and the opening and closing direction of the lid portion 40 is set to the Z direction (up-to-down direction of the head portion 30), if the opening window S1a is closed by moving the lid portion 40 upward, the head portion 30 may be prone to swinging in the X direction when moving the lid portion 40 upward.

[0235] However, even in such a case, increasing the amount of protrusion from the head housing 300 of the part where the finger can be hooked when operating the lid 40 in the closing direction (upward in the Z direction) makes it easier to operate the lid 40 in the closing direction (upward in the Z direction). As a result, it becomes possible to suppress the swinging of the head 30 in the X direction, and the opening and closing operation of the lid 40 can be further improved.

[0236] Furthermore, the head portion 30 may include a head base portion 31 supported by the razor body (body portion) 10, and a head cover portion 32 that is detachably attached to the head base portion 31 and covers the blade portion 331 with a portion (skin contact surface 33a) exposed. The lid portion 40 may also be attached to the head cover portion 32.

[0237] This design allows the lid 40 to be brought closer to the rotation center C1 when the rotation center C1 is located above the head 30, thereby improving the ease of opening and closing the lid 40. Furthermore, it allows for a more compact head 30 while also improving its aesthetic appeal. Additionally, since an opening window S1a is provided near the blade 331, the blade 331 can be cleaned more efficiently.

[0238] [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.

[0239] 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.

[0240] Furthermore, although the above embodiment and its modified examples illustrate a blade unit 33 having three blade blocks, it is also possible to have a blade unit 33 having two blade blocks, or a blade unit 33 having four or more blade blocks.

[0241] Furthermore, while the above embodiment and its modifications illustrate a configuration in which one lid 40 is attached to the head housing 300, it is also possible to attach multiple lids 40 to the head housing 300. In this case, it is possible to configure the system so that two or more lids 40 move in conjunction with each other during opening and closing operations, or for each lid 40 to move separately and independently.

[0242] Furthermore, in the above embodiment and its modified examples, the cover portion 40 is shown to be located inside the virtual circle C2 when the head portion 30 is viewed along the second direction (Y direction). However, it is also possible to have the cover portion 40 located outside the virtual circle C2.

[0243] Furthermore, in the above embodiment and its modified examples, the virtual axis A1 is shown to be located outside the head portion 30 when viewed along the second direction (Y direction). However, it is also possible to make the head portion 30 oscillate with respect to the razor body (body portion) 10 around a virtual axis A1 that is located inside the head portion 30.

[0244] Furthermore, while the above embodiment and its modifications illustrate an example in which the opening window S1a is opened in a first direction (X direction), it is also possible to open the opening window S1a in a direction intersecting the first direction (X direction). For example, it is possible to swing the head portion 30 in the first direction (X direction) relative to the razor body (body portion) 10 and form the opening window S1a at the end of the head housing 300 in the width direction (Y direction) (side wall of the head housing 300).

[0245] Furthermore, while the above embodiment and its modifications illustrate a configuration in which the lid portion 40 moves along the surface of the head portion 30, it is also possible to move the lid portion 40 in a direction intersecting the surface of the head portion 30. For example, as in the electric razor (hair removal device) described in Patent Document 1 above, if the head portion is configured to swing in the width direction relative to the main body portion with the central portion of the head portion as an axis, and a lid portion is provided on the front of the head portion, it is possible to configure the opening and closing direction of the lid portion to be in the front-to-back direction.

[0246] Furthermore, in the above embodiment and its modifications, the thickness D1 of the portion where a finger can be hooked when operating the lid 40 in the opening direction is made thinner than the thickness D2 of the portion where a finger can be hooked when operating the lid 40 in the closing direction, thereby making the amount of protrusion of the portion where a finger can be hooked when operating the lid 40 in the opening direction smaller than the amount of protrusion of the portion where a finger can be hooked when operating the lid 40 in the closing direction. However, it is also possible to make the thickness D1 and thickness D2 the same while making the amount of protrusion of the portion where a finger can be hooked when operating the lid 40 in the opening direction smaller than the amount of protrusion of the portion where a finger can be hooked when operating the lid 40 in the closing direction.

[0247] Furthermore, in the above embodiment and its modified examples, a hook portion 43 is provided on the lid portion 40 and a locking projection (locking portion) 3122 is formed on the head housing 300. However, it is also possible to form a locking portion on the lid portion 40 and a hook portion on the head housing 300. Alternatively, a hook portion and a locking portion can be formed on the lid portion 40, and a locking portion and a hook portion can be formed on the head housing 300, so that the hook portion of the lid portion 40 and the locking portion of the head housing 300 are locked together, and the locking portion of the lid portion 40 and the hook portion of the head housing 300 are locked together.

[0248] Furthermore, while the above embodiment and its modified examples illustrate a configuration where the X direction (front-to-back direction of the head portion 30) is the first direction, it is also possible to set the Y direction (width direction of the head portion 30) or the Z direction (up-down direction of the head portion 30) as the first direction.

[0249] Furthermore, while the above embodiments and their modifications illustrate an electric razor 1 in which the inner blade moves in a reciprocating linear motion relative to the outer blade, it is also possible to apply this disclosure to a rotary blade type electric razor in which the inner blade rotates relative to the outer blade.

[0250] Furthermore, in the above embodiment and its modifications, a lid 40 is provided on an opening window S1a that communicates with a space S1 in which cut beard hairs can be collected. By opening the lid 40, water or cleaning solution can be introduced into the opening window S1a and water or cleaning solution can be discharged from the opening window S1a. However, this disclosure can also be applied to a hair removal device that has a space for collecting lotions, creams, etc., for skin care.

[0251] 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 also be applied to a trimmer (electric hair cutting device) for cutting human or animal body hair or hair.

[0252] In addition, the specifications (shape, size, layout, etc.) of the head part, the lid part, and other details can also be changed as appropriate.

Industrial Applicability

[0253] As described above, the hair removal device according to the present disclosure can improve the opening and closing operability of the lid part while relatively moving the head part with respect to the main body part. Therefore, it can be applied not only to beards but also to various uses such as the treatment of various body hairs.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0254] 1 Electric razor (hair removal device) 10 Razor body (main body part) 20 Connecting mechanism 28 Link mechanism 2823 Connection end part 30 Head part 300 Head housing 31 Head base 3122 Locking projection (locking part) 3123 Protruding curved surface 3124 One side surface [[ID=​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​X, first direction Y 2nd direction, intersection direction Z Opening / Closing Direction

Claims

1. The main body and A head portion having a blade capable of cutting hair and supported by the main body portion in a manner that allows it to reciprocate relative to the main body portion along a first direction, Equipped with, The head portion includes a head housing in which a space is formed inside, The head housing has an opening window that communicates with the space, A cover portion that can open and close to cover the aforementioned opening window is attached to the head housing. The opening and closing direction of the lid intersects with the trajectory traced by the lid when the head is moved back and forth relative to the main body along the first direction. The head portion is supported by the main body portion via a connecting mechanism. The connecting mechanism includes a link mechanism that causes the head portion to swing along the first direction with respect to the main body portion about a virtual axis that extends in a second direction intersecting the first direction, The link mechanism has a connecting end that is connected to the head portion, With the head portion viewed along the second direction, the lid portion is located inside a virtual circle centered on the virtual axis and passing through the connecting end. Hair removal device.

2. The first direction is the front-to-back direction of the head portion. The hair removal device according to claim 1.

3. The head portion is supported by the main body portion in such a manner that it can move relative to the main body portion along a direction intersecting the first direction. A hair removal device according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The head portion is supported by the main body so that it can swing along the first direction, The distance from the center of rotation of the head portion to the lid portion is shorter than the longest distance from the center of rotation of the head portion. A hair removal device according to claim 1 or claim 2.

5. When viewing the head portion along the second direction, the virtual axis is located outward from the head portion. A hair removal device according to claim 1 or claim 2.

6. The head housing is formed such that the opening window opens in the first direction. The hair removal device according to claim 5.

7. The operating load in the opening direction and the operating load in the closing direction of the lid are different. A hair removal device according to claim 1 or claim 2.

8. The operating force required to open the lid is greater than the operating force required to close the lid. The hair removal device according to claim 7.

9. At least one of the head housing and the lid has a protruding curved surface and a locking portion formed thereon that can lock the lid in a closed position. At least one of the head housing and the lid is provided with a hook portion that can overcome the protruding curved surface when opening and closing the lid. The hook portion comprises a first inclined surface that contacts the protruding curved surface before overcoming it when moving the lid portion from a closed state to an open state, and a second inclined surface that contacts the protruding curved surface before overcoming it when moving the lid portion from an open state to a closed state. The inclination angle of the first inclined surface with respect to the opening and closing direction of the lid is greater than the inclination angle of the second inclined surface with respect to the opening and closing direction of the lid. The hair removal device according to claim 8.

10. At least one of the head housing and the lid has a protruding curved surface and a locking portion formed thereon that can lock the lid in a closed position. At least one of the head housing and the lid is provided with a hook portion that can overcome the protruding curved surface when opening and closing the lid. The hook portion comprises a first inclined surface that contacts one side of the protruding curved surface before it crosses over when the lid portion is moved from a closed state to an open state, and a second inclined surface that contacts the other side of the protruding curved surface before it crosses over when the lid portion is moved from an open state to a closed state. The aforementioned curved surface has a radius of curvature on one side that is smaller than the radius of curvature on the other side. The hair removal device according to claim 8.

11. The lid comprises a lid body that covers the opening window so as to be openable and closable, and a guide portion that guides the movement of the lid body in the opening and closing direction. A hair removal device according to claim 1 or claim 2.

12. The lid body has an elongated shape in a direction that intersects with the opening and closing direction of the lid, Operating parts for opening and closing the lid are formed on both sides of the lid body in the intersecting direction. The guide portions are formed near the operating portion. The hair removal device according to claim 11.

13. The lid is attached to the head housing such that at least a portion of the lid body protrudes outward from the head housing. The portions of the lid body that protrude outward from the head housing on both sides in the intersecting direction serve as the operating parts for opening and closing the lid by hooking a finger on them. The amount of protrusion from the head housing of the portion into which a finger can be hooked when operating the lid in the opening direction is smaller than the amount of protrusion from the head housing of the portion into which a finger can be hooked when operating the lid in the closing direction. The hair removal device according to claim 12.

14. The head portion comprises a head base supported by the main body and a head cover portion detachably attached to the head base and covering the blade portion with a portion exposed. The lid portion is attached to the head cover portion. A hair removal device according to claim 1 or claim 2.

15. The main body and, A head portion having a blade capable of cutting hair and supported by the main body portion in a manner that allows it to reciprocate relative to the main body portion along a first direction, Equipped with, The head portion includes a head housing in which a space is formed inside, The head housing has an opening window that communicates with the space, A cover portion that can open and close to cover the aforementioned opening window is attached to the head housing. The opening and closing direction of the lid intersects with the trajectory traced by the lid when the head is moved back and forth relative to the main body along the first direction. The operating load in the opening direction and the operating load in the closing direction of the lid are different. Hair removal device.

16. The main body and, A head portion having a blade capable of cutting hair and supported by the main body portion in a manner that allows it to reciprocate relative to the main body portion along a first direction, Equipped with, The head portion includes a head housing in which a space is formed inside, The head housing has an opening window that communicates with the space, A cover portion that can open and close to cover the aforementioned opening window is attached to the head housing. The opening and closing direction of the lid intersects with the trajectory traced by the lid when the head is moved back and forth relative to the main body along the first direction. The lid comprises a lid body that covers the opening window in an openable and closable manner, and a guide portion that guides the movement of the lid body in the opening and closing direction. The lid body has an elongated shape in a direction that intersects with the opening and closing direction of the lid, Operating parts for opening and closing the lid are formed on both sides of the lid body in the intersecting direction. The guide portions are formed near the operating portions, The lid is attached to the head housing such that at least a portion of the lid body protrudes outward from the head housing. The portions of the lid body that protrude outward from the head housing on both sides in the intersecting direction serve as the operating parts for opening and closing the lid by hooking a finger on them. The amount of protrusion from the head housing of the portion into which a finger can be hooked when operating the lid in the opening direction is smaller than the amount of protrusion from the head housing of the portion into which a finger can be hooked when operating the lid in the closing direction. Hair removal device.

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