Razor cartridge and blade therefor

Abstract

A razor blade is provided. The razor blade includes a cutting edge on a forward region of the blade is angled with respect to the lowermost edge of the support region. A middle region is provided between the forward region and the support region, where the middle region is optionally an offset such as a bend. The razor blade includes at least one notch. The at least one notch is located in the support region. A razor cartridge is provided with at least one razor blade, the razor cartridge having a housing including a support region for engaging at least one notch.

Description

Razor Cartridge and Blade Therefor BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application Ser. No.63 / 608,631, filed on December 11, 2023, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein. 1. Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to razors and implements for reducing the length of hair, and more particularly, razors, cartridges and blades related thereto. 2. Background Information

[0002] Razors of the wet shave or manual type include a cartridge and a handle that are connected together. Razors are generally intended to reduce the length of hair extending from the hirsute surface, but beyond this general purpose, razors vary to suit the different needs of different end consumers. One such need is flexibility, or the ability of a razor to conform to unique surfaces having varied topography. This is particularly significant for hard-to-reach portions of the body, and / or portions that are narrow, are particularly arcuate, or have a significant change in slope over a short distance. Various approaches have been taken to provide cartridges with improved flexibility. While these types of cartridges increase range of motion, they also increase cost and complexity, and / or fail to provide desired flexibility of certain consumers. Accordingly, it is desirous to have further cartridge flexibility while mitigating against additional costs and complexity. SUMMARY

[0003] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a razor blade (also a “blade”) is provided. The razor blade includes a forward region. The forward region has a cutting edge. The blade includes a middle region located adjacent the forward region and opposite to the cutting edge. The blade includes a support region located adjacent the middle region. The support region has an upper portion that is generally opposite to a lower portion. The lower portion defines a lowermost edge that is generally opposite to the cutting edge.

[0004] The cutting edge is angled with respect to the lowermost edge.

[0005] According to any of the embodiments herein, the support region includes at least one notch and up to fourteen notches. In some embodiments, the razor blade comprises betweenthree and nine notches. In some embodiments, the razor blade comprises between five and seven notches.

[0006] According to any of the embodiments herein, at least one notch includes several slots forming a comb-like shape. In some embodiments, there are between two and eight slots on a given comb-like shaped notch. In some embodiments, at least two notches each include several slots forming a comb-like shape. In some embodiments, there are at least three notches, where two notches each include several slots forming a comb-like shape. Such notches having slots forming a comb-like shape are on either side of a centermost notch. The slots are connected to a bridge portion adjacent the lowermost edge. The bridge portion optionally has a thickness that is greater than the thickness of the flange of the centermost notch. The bridge portion optionally has a bridge thickness that is about equal to or greater than the thickness of the flange of the centermost notch. The bridge portion optionally has a bridge thickness that is less than or equal to the thickness of the flange of the centermost notch.

[0007] According to any of the embodiments herein, the at least one notch is contiguous with the lowermost edge. In some embodiments, at least three notches are contiguous with the lowermost edge. In some embodiments, all of the notches are contiguous with the lowermost edge.

[0008] According to any of the embodiments, herein, the at least one notch includes a centermost notch. In some embodiments, the at least one notch also includes at least two notches on each respective side of the centermost notch. In some embodiments, each of the at least two notches on each respective side of the centermost notch is a mid-lateral notch.

[0009] According to any of the embodiments herein, the centermost notch and two additional notches each include at least one flange. In some embodiments, the centermost notch includes two flanges, and a respective notch on either side of the centermost notch includes at least one flange. In some embodiments, each of the respective notches on either side of the centermost notch include one flange. In some embodiments, the single flange on the notch to a side of the centermost notch is configured on the proximal side of such notch to the centermost notch. In some embodiments, the single flange on the notch to a side of the centermost notch is configured on the distal side of such notch to the centermost notch.

[0010] According to any of the embodiments herein, the centermost notch is configured to have a geometry that is distinct from the geometry of the remaining notches. In some embodiments, the centermost notch comprises at least one flange, the at least one flange extending inwardly creating a narrow width of the centermost notch.

[0011] In some embodiments, the at least one notch is located in the support region of the blade. In some embodiments, the at least three notches are located in the support region of the blade. In some embodiments, all of the notches are located in the support region of the blade. In some embodiments, all of the notches are entirely within the support region of the blade.

[0012] In some embodiments, the at least one notch is located solely in the lower portion. In some embodiments, at least three notches are located solely in the lower portion. In some embodiments, all of the notches are located solely in the lower portion.

[0013] According to any of the embodiments herein, a ratio of a surface area with notches to a surface area of the support region without the notches is between about 0.1% to about 50%.

[0014] According to any of the embodiments herein, the ratio of the surface area with notches to a surface area of the lower portion of the support region without the notches is between about 0.1% to about 50%.

[0015] According to any of the embodiments herein, a notch separation length between each of the at least one notches is generally equal.

[0016] According to any of the embodiments herein, an end length between an end of the razor blade and the endmost notch is greater than or equal to the notch separation length between each of the at least one notches.

[0017] According to any of the embodiments herein, the blade is a bent blade.

[0018] According to any of the embodiments herein, the blade has a bend in the middle region, the bend having a bend angle defined between the cutting edge and the lowermost edge of between about 90 degrees and about 130 degrees. In some embodiments, the bend angle is between about 100 degrees and about 125 degrees.

[0019] In a further embodiment of the present disclosure, a razor cartridge is provided. The razor cartridge includes a guard, a cap, at least one blade and up to eight blades positioned between the guard and the cap. Each of the blades includes a forward region. The forward region has a cutting edge. Each blade includes a middle region located adjacent the forward region and opposite to the cutting edge. Each blade includes a support region located adjacent the middle region. The support region having an upper portion that is generally opposite to a lower portion. The lower portion defines a lowermost edge that is generally opposite to the cutting edge.

[0020] The cutting edge is angled with respect to the lowermost edge.

[0021] According to any of the embodiments herein, the support region of a blade includes at least one notch and up to fourteen notches. Optionally, the blade comprises between three and nine notches. According to any of the embodiments herein, the blade comprises between five and seven notches.

[0022] According to any of the embodiments herein, the at least one notch is contiguous with the lowermost edge. In some embodiments, at least three notches are contiguous with the lowermost edge. In some embodiments, all of the notches are contiguous with the lowermost edge. In some embodiments, all of the notches are contiguous with the lowermost edge.

[0023] According to any of the embodiments, herein, the at least one notch includes a centermost notch. In some embodiments, the at least one notch also includes at least two notches on each respective side of the centermost notch. In some embodiments, each of the at least two notches on each respective side of the centermost notch is a mid-lateral notch.

[0024] According to any of the embodiments herein, the centermost notch and two additional notches each include at least one flange. In some embodiments, the centermost notch includes two flanges, and a respective notch on either side of the centermost notch includes at least one flange. In some embodiments, each of the respective notches on either side of the centermost notch include one flange. In some embodiments, the single flange on the notch to a side of the centermost notch is configured on the proximal side of such notch to the centermost notch. In some embodiments, the single flange on the notch to a side of the centermost notch is configured on the distal side of such notch to the centermost notch.

[0025] According to any of the embodiments herein, a center region of the at least one blade bends (e.g., deflects or projects) at least about 0.4 mm when a 3 N load is applied to the center portion of the at least one blade. According to any of the embodiments herein, a center region of the at least one blade bends (e.g., deflects or projects) at most about 0.5 mm when a 3 N load is applied to the center portion of the at least one blade. According to any of the embodiments herein, a center region of the at least one blade bends (e.g., deflects or projects) at least about 0.4 mm and at most about 0.5 mm when a 3 N load is applied to the center portion of the at least one blade. Optionally, the guard bends (e.g., deflects or projects) between about 0.4 mm and about 0.5 mm.

[0026] According to any of the embodiments herein, a ratio of a surface area with notches to a surface area of the support region without the notches is between about 0.1% to about 50%.

[0027] According to any of the embodiments herein, the razor cartridge includes a cartridge housing. The cartridge housing includes at least one pair of blade supports. The at least one pair of blade supports is located at each of the end regions of the cartridge housing. Each of the at least one pair of blade supports includes opposing protrusions defining a channel therein.

[0028] In some embodiments, the at least one pair of blade supports is attached to or is integral with the housing, (e.g., the frame). In some embodiments, the at least one pair of blade supports is attached to or integral with the housing (e.g., the inlay).

[0029] In some embodiments, the at least one pair of blade supports are located in a lateral end region, a mid-lateral region, and / or a center region of the cartridge. In some embodiments, a pair of blade supports is located in an end region and a center region of the cartridge. In some embodiments, a pair of blade supports are located in a mid-lateral region and a center region of the cartridge. In some embodiments, a pair of blade supports are located in a lateral end region, a mid-lateral region, and a center region.

[0030] In some embodiments, there are at least three sets of the at least one pair of blade supports, or three sets of the at least one pair of blade supports, or five sets of the at least one pair of blade supports, where a set is provided for each blade in a multi-blade cartridge having a respective pair of blade supports (e.g., an array of pairs of blade supports).

[0031] According to any of the embodiments herein, the razor cartridge includes at least one protrusion. The at least one protrusion is inward of the at least one pair of blade supports. The at least one protrusion is optionally located in the center region of the cartridge housing. The at least one protrusion is optionally located in the mid-lateral region of the cartridge.

[0032] According to any of the embodiments herein, the at least one protrusion includes at least one ledge. In some embodiments, a protrusion includes two ledges, each ledge extending laterally outward of a respective side of the protrusion, In some embodiments, a protrusion includes a ledge extending laterally outward of a side of the protrusion. In some embodiments, the ledge extends towards the center region. In some embodiments, the ledge extends laterally towards the lateral end region.

[0033] According to any of the embodiments herein, at least one pair of blade supports and a protrusion are provided in a given region of the cartridge housing (e.g., the inlay) in the center region and / or the mid-lateral region. In some embodiments, a protrusion and a pair of blade supports are provided in the center region. In some embodiments, a protrusion and a pair of blade supports are provided in the mid-lateral region. In some embodiments having a protrusion and a pair of blade supports in a given region, the protrusion is centered between the pair of blade supports such that the protrusion is within a channel defined between the pair of blade supports. The protrusion is configured such that it does not occupy the entire volume of the channel (e.g., defined as the space between the pair of blade supports).

[0034] In some embodiments, the protrusion is laterally outward or laterally inward (e.g., adjacent to) a respective pair of blade supports. In some embodiments, the protrusion extendsupwardly from, is laterally outward of, or is laterally inward of a structure (e.g., a rail) of the housing (e.g., the inlay) to which a series of protrusions are attached. The rail is configured to extend between the front region (e.g., proximal the guard) of the housing and the aft region (e.g., proximal the cap) of the housing. In some embodiments, at least one rail is located in the mid-lateral region, and / or the center region. In some embodiments, there are at least two rails, or at least three rails, etc.. The height of the rail is greater than or equal to the heigh of the protrusion.

[0035] According to any of the embodiments herein, the at least one pair of blade supports and the at least one protrusion extend upwardly from a base portion of the cartridge housing and towards the skin engaging surface.

[0036] According to any of the embodiments herein, the cartridge housing includes an inlay. Optionally, the cartridge housing includes a frame. Optionally, the inlay is configured to attach to the frame. Optionally, the inlay is a flexible material such as a thermoplastic material. Optionally, the thermoplastic material is a thermoplastic elastomeric material (e.g., TPE).

[0037] According to any of the embodiments herein, the at least one protrusion extends upwardly from the housing (e.g., an inlay). In some embodiments, there is at least one set of protrusions, one for each of a respective blade in a multi-blade cartridge. In some embodiments, there are at least one three sets of protrusions, three for each of a respective blade in a multi- blade cartridge. In such embodiment, a first protrusion is located in the center region, and a second protrusion and a third protrusion are located in the mid-lateral region of the cartridge (e.g., mid-lateral protrusions), each of the second protrusion and the third protrusion (e.g., mid-lateral protrusions) laterally outward on a respective side of the central protrusion. In such embodiments where there are multiple sets of protrusions, there is an array of protrusions.

[0038] According to any of the embodiments herein, the at least one protrusion is positioned within the at least one notch. In some embodiments, at least two protrusions are positioned within at least two respective notches. Each of the at least two respective protrusions and the at least two respective notches are within the mid-lateral region and / or the center region. In some embodiments, at least three protrusions are positioned within at least three respective notches. Each of the at least three respective protrusions and the at least three respective notches are within the mid-lateral region and / or the center region. In some embodiments, at least one set of notches are positioned within at least one set of notches, where each respective notch is within a respective blade of a multi-blade cartridge. In some embodiments, at least two sets of notches are positioned within at least two sets of notches, where two respective notches are within two respective blades of a multi-blade cartridge. In some embodiments, at least three sets of notches are positioned within at least three sets of notches, where three respective notches arewithin three respective blades of a multi-blade cartridge. In such embodiments having multiple sets of notches, there is an array of notches.

[0039] A further embodiment of the present disclosure is provided and includes a razor cartridge. The razor cartridge includes at least one pair of blade supports. Each of the at least one pair of blade supports is located at an end region of the cartridge housing. Each of the at least one pair of blade supports includes opposing protrusions defining a channel therein.

[0040] According to any of the embodiments herein, the at least one pair of blade supports is attached to or is integral with the housing, and optionally the frame. In some embodiments, the at least one pair of blade supports is attached to or integral with the housing and optionally the inlay.

[0041] According to any of the embodiments herein, the at least one pair of blade supports are located in a lateral end region, a mid-lateral region, and / or a center region of the cartridge. In some embodiments, a pair of blade supports is located in an end region and a center region of the cartridge. In some embodiments, a pair of blade supports are located in a mid-lateral region and a center region of the cartridge. In some embodiments, a pair of blade supports are located in a lateral end region, a mid-lateral region, and a center region.

[0042] According to any of the embodiments herein, there are at least three sets of the at least one pair of blade supports, or three sets of the at least one pair of blade supports, or five sets of the at least one pair of blade supports, where a set is provided for each blade in a multi- blade cartridge having a respective pair of blade supports. In such embodiments having multiple sets, there is an array of blade supports.

[0043] According to any of the embodiments herein, the razor cartridge includes at least one protrusion inward of the at least one pair of blade supports. The at least one protrusion is optionally located in the center region of the cartridge housing. The at least one protrusion is optionally located in the mid-lateral region of the cartridge housing (e.g., the inlay). The at least one protrusion is optionally located in the mid-lateral region and the center region of the cartridge housing (e.g., the inlay).

[0044] According to any of the embodiments herein, the at least one protrusion includes at least one ledge. In some embodiments, a protrusion includes two ledges, each ledge extending laterally outward of a respective side of the protrusion, In some embodiments, a protrusion includes a ledge extending laterally outward of a side of the protrusion. In some embodiments, the ledge extends towards the center region. In some embodiments, the ledge extends laterally towards the lateral end region.

[0045] According to any of the embodiments herein, at least one pair of blade supports and a protrusion are provided in a given region of the cartridge housing (e.g., the inlay) in the center region and / or the mid-lateral region. In some embodiments, a protrusion and a pair of blade supports are provided in the center region. In some embodiments, a protrusion and a pair of blade supports are provided in the mid-lateral region. In some embodiments having a protrusion and a pair of blade supports in a given region, the protrusion is centered between the pair of blade supports such that the protrusion is within a channel defined between the pair of blade supports. The protrusion is configured such that it does not occupy the entire volume of the channel (e.g., defined as the space between the pair of blade supports).

[0046] In some embodiments, the protrusion is laterally outward or laterally inward (e.g., adjacent to) a respective pair of blade supports. In some embodiments, the protrusion is laterally outward or laterally inward of a structure (e.g., a rail) of the housing (e.g., the inlay) to which a series of protrusions are attached. The structure (e.g., a rail) is configured to extend between the front region (e.g., proximal the guard) of the housing and the aft region (e.g., proximal the cap) of the housing. In some embodiments, at least one structure (e.g., a rail) is located in the mid-lateral region, and / or the center region. In some embodiments, there are at least two structures (e.g., a rail), or at least three structures (e.g., a rail), etc.. The height of the structure (e.g., a rail) is greater than or equal to the height of the protrusion.

[0047] According to any of the embodiments herein, the at least one pair of blade supports and the at least one protrusion extend upwardly from a base portion of the cartridge housing and towards the skin engaging surface.

[0048] The razor cartridge includes at least one blade and up to eight blades positioned between the guard and the cap. Each of the blades includes a forward region. The forward region has a cutting edge. Each blade includes a middle region located adjacent the forward region and opposite to the cutting edge. Each blade includes a support region located adjacent the middle region. The support region having an upper portion that is generally opposite to a lower portion. The lower portion defines a lowermost edge that is generally opposite to the cutting edge.

[0049] According to any of the embodiments herein, the cutting edge is angled with respect to the lowermost edge.

[0050] According to any of the embodiments herein, the support region includes at least one notch and up to fourteen notches. Optionally, the razor blade comprises between three and nine notches. In some embodiments, the razor blade comprises between five and seven notches.

[0051] According to any of the embodiments herein, the at least one notch is contiguous with the lowermost edge.

[0052] According to any of the embodiments herein, the at least one protrusion extends upwardly from the cartridge housing (e.g., an inlay).

[0053] According to any of the embodiments herein, the at least one protrusion is positioned within the at least one notch. In some embodiments, at least two protrusions are each positioned within a respective one of at least two notches. In some embodiments, at least three protrusions are each positioned within a respective one of at least three notches.

[0054] According to any of the embodiments herein, the at least one protrusion engages at least one of the notches and is(are) retained within the at least one notches. In some embodiments, at least two protrusions are each retained within a respective one of at least two notches. In some embodiments, at least three protrusions are each retained within a respective one of at least three notches.

[0055] According to any of the embodiments herein, the at least one protrusion engages at least one of the notches and is(are) retained within the at least one notches by at least one flange. The at least one protrusion includes a ledge, where the ledge is retained within the notch by the flange. In some embodiments, at least two protrusions are each retained within a respective one of at least two notches by at least one flange (e.g., at least one ledge of the respective at least two protrusions is adjacent to the at least one flange). In some embodiments, at least three protrusions are each retained within a respective one of at least three notches by at least one flange (e.g., at least one ledge of the respective at least two protrusions is adjacent to the at least one flange).

[0056] In some embodiments, at least one notch includes at least two flanges. In some embodiments, at least two notches include at least one flange. In some embodiments, a first notch includes at least two flanges, a second notch includes at least one flange, and third notch each include at least one flange. In such latter embodiment, the first notch is configured in the center region, and the second notch and the third notch are configured in the mid-lateral region.

[0057] According to any of the embodiments herein, at least one of the notches is contiguous with the lowermost edge.

[0058] According to any of the embodiments herein, a center region of the at least one blade bends (e.g., deflects or projects) at least about 0.4 mm when a 3 N load is applied to the center portion of the at least one blade. A center region of the at least one blade bends (e.g., deflects or projects) at most about 0.5 mm when a 3 N load is applied to the center portion of the at least one blade. A center region of the at least one blade bends (e.g., deflects or projects) at least about 0.4 mm and at most about 0.5 mm when a 3 N load is applied to the center portion of the at least one blade. Optionally, the guard deflects between about 0.4 mm and about 0.5 mm.In embodiments having a multi-blade cartridge, each of the at least one blade bends (e.g., deflects or projects) at least about 0.4 mm and at most about 0.5 mm when a 3 N load is applied to the center portion of each of the at least one blade.

[0059] According to any of the embodiments herein, a ratio of a surface area with notches to a surface area of the support region without the notches is between about 0.1% to about 50%.

[0060] According to any of the embodiments herein, the razor cartridge includes a cartridge housing. The cartridge housing includes at least one pair of blade supports. The at least one pair of blade supports is located at each of the lateral end regions of the cartridge housing. Each of the at least one pair of blade supports includes opposing protrusions defining a channel therein.

[0061] According to any of the embodiments herein, the razor cartridge includes at least one protrusion. The at least one protrusion is inward of the at least one pair of blade supports. The at least one protrusion is optionally located in the center region of the cartridge housing.

[0062] According to any of the embodiments herein, the at least one pair of blade supports and the at least one protrusion extend upwardly from a base portion of the cartridge housing and towards the skin engaging surface.

[0063] According to any of the embodiments herein, the cartridge housing includes an inlay. Optionally, the cartridge housing includes a frame. Optionally, the inlay is configured to attach to the frame. In some embodiments, the inlay is optionally a flexible material such as a thermoplastic material. Optionally, the thermoplastic material is a thermoplastic elastomeric material (e.g., TPE).

[0064] The present disclosure provides a further embodiment, including an inlay. The inlay has a center region with an end region on either side of the center region, and a mid-lateral region between the center region and a respective end region. Each of the mid-lateral regions and / or end regions includes at least one pair of blade supports. The at least one pair of blade supports and the at least one protrusion extend upwardly from a base portion of the cartridge housing and towards the skin engaging surface.

[0065] According to any of the embodiments herein, the inlay includes a guard. The guard is attached to the inlay. The guard is optionally integral with the inlay. The guard and inlay are optionally a similar material. The guard and inlay are optionally the same material. The guard and inlay are optionally a flexible material such as a thermoplastic material. The guard and inlay are optionally a flexible material such as a thermoplastic elastomeric material.

[0066] According to any of the embodiments herein, the inlay includes a cap. The cap is optionally attached to a channel located within the inlay. In some embodiments, the cap is integralwith the inlay. The cap is optionally a substantially rigid material. The cap is optionally a lubricious material. The cap is positioned on the inlay aft of the guard.

[0067] According to any of the embodiments herein, at least one blade is provided with the housing, including the inlay and / or the frame. The at least one blade includes a forward region. The forward region has a cutting edge. The at least one blade includes a middle region located adjacent the forward region and opposite to the cutting edge. The at least one blade includes a support region located adjacent the middle region. The support region has an upper portion that is generally opposite to a lower portion. The lower portion defines a lowermost edge that is generally opposite to the cutting edge. The support region of the at least one blades is positioned within the at least one pair of blade supports such that the lowermost edge is positioned within the channel formed between the at least one pair of blade supports.

[0068] According to any of the embodiments herein, a center region of the at least one blade bends (e.g., deflects or projects) at least about 0.4 mm when a 3 N load is applied to the center portion of the at least one blade. A center region of the at least one blade bends (e.g., deflects or projects) at most about 0.5 mm when a 3 N load is applied to the center portion of the at least one blade. A center region of the at least one blade bends (e.g., deflects or projects) at least about 0.4 mm and at most about 0.5 mm when a 3 N load is applied to the center portion of the at least one blade. Optionally, the guard deflects between about 0.4 mm and about 0.5 mm. In some embodiments, the cap deflects between about 0.4 mm and about 0.5 mm. In some embodiments the inlay bends (e.g., deflects or projects) at least about 0.4 mm. In some embodiments, the inlay and the components attached thereto such as the guard, the at least one blade, and / or the cap, deflect at least about 0.4 mm. In some embodiments the inlay bends (e.g., deflects or projects) up to about 0.5 mm. In some embodiments, the inlay and the components attached thereto such as the guard, the at least one blade, and / or the cap, deflect up to about 0.5 mm. In some embodiments the inlay bends (e.g., deflects or projects) between about 0.4 mm and about 0.5 mm. In some embodiments, the inlay and the components attached thereto such as the guard, the at least one blade, and / or the cap, deflect between about 0.4 mm and about 0.5 mm. In some embodiments, the inlay and the components attached thereto such as the guard, the at least one blade, and / or the cap, deflect together. In some embodiments, the inlay and the components attached thereto such as the guard, the at least one blade, and / or the cap, deflect together such that the geometry of the inlay remains substantially unchanged with regard to the hirsute surface when a load is applied.

[0069] The foregoing features and elements may be combined in various combinations without exclusivity, unless expressly indicated otherwise. For example, aspects and / orembodiments of the present disclosure may include any one or more of the individual features or elements disclosed above and / or below alone or in any combination thereof. These features and elements as well as the operation thereof will become more apparent in light of the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, the following description and drawings are intended to be exemplary in nature and non-limiting. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0070] FIG.1 is an illustration of an angled view of a razor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] FIG.2 is an illustration of a front angled view of a razor cartridge according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] FIG.2A is an illustration of a rear angled view of a razor cartridge according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] FIG. 3 is an illustration of an exploded view of a razor cartridge according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074] FIG. 4 is an illustration of an exploded view of a razor cartridge according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] FIG.5 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a razor cartridge according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] FIG.6 is an illustration of an angled view of a razor cartridge inlay according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] FIG. 7 is an illustration of a front view of a razor cartridge according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] FIG. 8 is an illustration of a back view of a razor cartridge according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0079] FIG.9 is an illustration of an angled sectional view of a razor cartridge according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0080] FIGS. 10-10N are diagrammatic front views of a support region of a razor blade according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0081] FIG.11 is a diagrammatic representation of a cross section of at least one razor blade according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0082] FIG.12 is a diagrammatic representation of a front view of a razor cartridge in a rest configuration.

[0083] FIG.12A is a diagrammatic representation of a front view of a razor cartridge in an activated configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0084] FIG.12B is a diagrammatic representation of a front view of a razor cartridge in an activated configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0085] FIG.13 is a diagrammatic representation of a blade forming process according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0086] Referring now to exemplary FIG.1, a razor 20 is provided. The razor 20 includes a razor cartridge 22, a razor connector region 24, and a razor handle 26. For simplicity, the razor cartridge 22 will be referred to as a “cartridge 22”, the razor connector region 24 will be referred to as a “connector 24”, and the razor handle 26 will be referred to as a “handle 26”.

[0087] The cartridge 22 attaches to the connector 24, and the connector 24 attaches to the handle 26. Optionally, the cartridge 22 and the connector 24 are coupled as a single unit or are integral, particularly when sold to a consumer. Optionally, the connector 24 and handle 26 are coupled as a single unit or are integral, particularly when sold to a consumer.

[0088] Referring now to exemplary FIGS.1-5, a cartridge 22 is provided. The cartridge 22 typically includes a guard 28 albeit other configurations will be discussed herein, at least one blade unit 30, and a cap 32. The cartridge 22 optionally includes a guard 28 spanning from a cartridge front end 34 and a rear edge 36 of the guard 28. The guard 28 extends laterally such that it has a guard length 29. The guard length 29 (see, e.g., FIG.6) is optionally greater than the blade length of the at least one blade unit 30. The guard length 29 is optionally commensurate with the length of the cartridge 22. The guard length 29 is optionally less than the length of the cartridge 22. The guard 28 – whether attached to the cartridge 22 or another portion of the razor 20 - is generally in front of the at least one blade unit 30. The guard 28 includes a skin-engaging surface 38 (see, e.g., in FIG. 5) designed to stretch the skin, exfoliate, lubricate, moisturize, otherwise treat the hirsute surface 40 (see, e.g., in FIG.5), and / or align hairs as they enter the at least one blade unit 30. The guard 28 optionally has a topography 42 that includes peak surfaces 44 and valleys 46 between peak surfaces 44. Such topography 42 optionally includes fins, ribs, a comb-type structure, or other protuberances.

[0089] Referring now to exemplary FIGS.2-5, the cartridge 22 includes at least one blade unit 30. The at least one blade unit 30 includes at least one blade 48. For the purposes of the present disclosure, the term “blade” is synonymous with “razor blade”, and where “at least one blade” is referred to, it is commensurate with “at least one razor blade”. The blade, at least oneblade, razor blade, and / or at least one razor blade 48 includes a forward region 116 that is generally opposite a support region 118. The forward region 116 includes a cutting edge 70. The support region 118 is adjacent a middle region 122 (see FIG.11) adjacent the end of the forward region 116 opposite to the cutting edge 70. The middle region 122 optionally includes an offset such as a bend 124 (see FIG.11). The middle region 122 is defined as the portion that has a change between the forward region 116 and the support region 118. Such change includes a bend 124, or the juncture / overlap of the forward region 116 of the blade 48 and the support region 118 (e.g., one welded to the other). The support region 118 is adjacent the middle region 122 at the end of 126 the middle region 122 opposite to the end that is adjacent the forward region 116. The support region 118 has an upper portion 126 generally opposite a lower portion 128. The lower portion 128 defines the lowermost edge 130. The upper portion 126 and the lower portion 128 are generally half of the entire width of the support region 118, as demonstrated by the dashed line in exemplary FIGS.10-10N.

[0090] The blade 48 has a blade length 72 (see FIG.10), a thickness 78 (see FIG.11), and a width 86 (see FIG.13). The blade length 72 is typically between 20 mm and about 50 mm, and optionally about 35 mm to about 45 mm, or optionally about 38 mm to about 43 mm, or about 38 mm, or about 40 mm, or about 41 mm, or about 43 mm. The blade has a thickness 78 of between 0.05 mm and 0.125 mm, or about 0.076 mm. The width 86 of the blade is between about 1 mm and about 5 mm, or between about 2 mm and about 4 mm, or about 3 mm to about 4 mm, or about 3 mm, or about 4 mm. The forward region 116 has a width 86 (see FIG.13) of about 1 mm to about 3 mm. The middle region 122 has a width 86 of about 0.1 mm to about 1 mm, and the support region 118 has a width 86 of about 1 mm to about 3 mm. The bend 124 can be arcuate and can have an external radius in a range 0.2 to 1.5 mm, preferably 0.3 to 0.8 mm, more preferably 0.3 to 0.5 mm.

[0091] As shown in FIG.11, the lowermost edge 130 is at an end that is opposite to the cutting edge 70. The cutting edge 70 is angled with respect to the lowermost edge 130. The middle region 122 optionally includes a bend angle 120. The bend angle 120 is defined between the cutting edge 70 and the lowermost edge 130 as it extends through the middle region 122. For clarity, and as shown in FIG.11, the bend angle 120 is between the projection along the lower surface 58 of the blade 48 extends from the forward region 116 and the projection of the lowermost edge 130 extends along lower surface 58 of the support region 118 to their point of intersection proximal to the middle region 122. Although FIG.11 shows a bent blade 60, a welded blade 50 may have an angle as described with the bend angle 120 that has the same dimensions as contemplated herein. It is understood that the bend angle 120 can be taken along any portionof the length 72 of the blade 48, despite variations in the blade 48 (e.g., bow or camphor in the central region 132 of the middle region 122 having a bend 124 which is a byproduct of blade bending). The bend angle 120 is between about 90 degrees and about 130 degrees, or between about 100 degrees and about 125 degrees, or between about 105 degrees and about 123 degrees, or between about 108 degrees and about 123 degrees, or between about 108 degrees and about 118 degrees, or between about 108 degrees and about 112 degrees, or about 90 degrees, or about 100 degrees, or about 102 degrees, or about 103 degrees, or about 104 degrees, or about 106 degrees, or about 108 degrees, or about 110 degrees, or about 112 degrees, or about 115 degrees or about 118 degrees, or about 120 degrees.

[0092] The at least one blade 48 is optionally a welded blade 50 structure including a cutting portion 52 welded to a blade support region 54 (either on the top surface 56 of the blade support region 54 or a lower surface 58 of the blade support region 54). The at least one blade 48 is alternatively a bent blade 60 such that it has a cutting portion 52 and a blade support region 54 or is generally flat (e.g., planar) where a cutting portion 52 is generally opposite the blade support region 54. The blade support region 54 faces towards the guard 28 or faces towards the cap 32. In certain embodiments, there are at least two blade units 30, 62. In some such embodiments, a first blade 30 unit includes at least one blade 48 positioned such that each of respective the at least one cutting portion 52 are in a first direction, while the second blade unit 62 includes at least one blade 48 positioned with each of the respective cutting portion 52 in a second direction.

[0093] The at least one blade 48 is optionally between one blade and seven blades, or between two blades and six blades, or between two blades and five blades, or is two blades, is three blades, is four blades, is five blades, is six blades, or is seven blades.

[0094] The at least one blade 48 includes a structure where the cutting portion 52 has a cutting edge 70 that is generally symmetric about a cross-section transverse to the length 72 of the at least one blade 48. Optionally, the at least one blade 48 includes a structure where the cutting portion 52 has a cutting edge 70 that is generally asymmetric about a cross-section transverse to the length 72 of the at least one blade 48.

[0095] Referring now to exemplary FIGS. 10-10N, the at least one blade 48 includes at least one notch 134. The at least one notch 134 includes a void 136 within the blade 48 that is configured to be one of a number of geometries. For instance, the at least one notch 134 is optionally configured to be arcuate, circular, ovular, triangular, prismatic (e.g., diamond, rhomboid, trapezoidal, square, rectangular, kite, etc.), polygonal, combinations thereof, etc., in shape. The notch 134 optionally includes at least one rounded feature 138(e.g., a roundel or arch) where it isdistal from the lowermost edge 130. The notch 134 optionally includes at least one chamfer 140. The notch 134 optionally has opposing sides 142 that extend from the opening of the notch towards each other (e.g., converging towards each other), thereby ending in a peak (e.g., a generally triangular shaped notch 134, such as a scalene, an isosceles, or equilateral triangle) or where one of the opposing sides 142 extends towards the other opposing side 142 (e.g., a right triangle). The notch 134 optionally has opposing sides 142 that are arcuate and or curve towards each other. The notch 134 optionally has opposing sides 142 that meet in a generally flattened end 146.

[0096] Optionally, the at least one notch 134 has symmetry about the axis perpendicular to the blade length 72, or along the width 86 of the blade. Optionally, the blade 48 includes a plurality of notches 134 positioned such that the blade 48 has symmetry along the axis perpendicular to the blade length 72, or along the width 86 of the blade 48. In embodiments having at least two blades 48, 49, such symmetry optionally applies to the at least two blades 48, 49.

[0097] The at least one notch 134 is located within the support region 118. The at least one notch 134 is optionally proximal to and / or adjacent the lowermost edge 130. The at least one notch 134 optionally opens 148 (e.g., has a notch opening) at the lowermost edge 130. The at least one notch 134 is positioned within the support region 118 such that it does not extend into the middle region 122. The at least one notch 134 is optionally positioned within a lower portion 128 of the support region 118.

[0098] The at least one notch 134 optionally has at least one flange 150. The flange 150 is located along the notch height 170 of the at least one notch 134. The flange 150 is optionally proximal to the notch opening 148 of the at least one notch 134. The flange 150 is optionally proximal to and / or adjacent to the lowermost edge 130. The at least one flange 150 creates a narrow dimension 154 of the notch 134 with respect to the widest dimension 156 of the notch. The at least one flange 150 optionally includes at least two flanges 150, or two flanges 150. In embodiments having at least two flanges 150, the flanges 150 may extend towards each other, and / or may be staggered such that a first flange 150 is proximal the lowermost edge 130 and a second flange 150 is further from the lowermost edge 130 than the first flange 150. In some embodiments, the at least one flange 150 is proximal to the notch opening 148. In some embodiments, the at least one flange 150 is proximal to the lowermost edge. In some embodiments, the at least one flange 150 is distal to the opposing end (e.g., at the notch height 170). In some embodiments, the at least one flange 150 is distal to the middle region 122. In some embodiments, the notch 134 includes a recess 158 adjacent the flange 150. In someembodiments, there are two notches 134, 134A that include at least one flange 150. In some embodiments, there are three notches 134, 134A, 134B that include at least one flange 150.

[0099] In some embodiments (see at least FIGS.9, 10L-10N), a plurality of notches 134 include a centermost notch 168. The centermost notch 168 includes two flanges 150. Each of the two flanges is located proximal the lowermost edge 130 and the notch opening 148. Laterally outward of the centermost notch 168 is a second notch 134A. Second notch 134A includes a flange 150, the flange 150 configured to extend inward from the side edge 162 of the blade 48. Third notch 134B includes a flange 150, the flange 150 configured to extend inward from the side edge 162 of the blade 48. Each of the second notch 134A and third notch 134B are on opposite sides of the centermost notch 168. While each of the flanges 150 in the second notch 134A and third notch 134B are shown as extending inward from the side edge 162, the flanges 150 may be configured to extend laterally outward towards a respective side edge 162. [000100] In embodiments having more than one notch 134 (e.g., at least two notches, at least three notches, two notches, three notches, etc.), each of a respective two notches are spaced apart by a notch separation length 160. The distance between the side edge 162 of the blade 48 and the at least one notch 134 is the end space length 164. In embodiments having at least two notches 134, the end space length 164 is the distance between the side edge 162 of the blade 48 and the notch 134 closest to that respective side edge 162. The notch separation length 160 is less than, equal to, or greater than an end space length 164. In certain embodiments, the notch separation length 160 is less than or equal to the end space length 164. In certain embodiments having at least five notches, a first notch separation length 160 is different from a second notch space length 160A. [000101] The notch separation length 160 is at least 0.3 mm. The notch separation length 160 is optionally between about 0.3 mm to about 4 mm, albeit the notch separation length 160 can be greater than 4 mm. The notch separation length 160 is between about 0.6 mm and about 1.5 mm, or between about 0.8 mm and about 1.2 mm. The end space length 164 is at least 0.3 mm. The end space length 164 is at least 0.3 mm to about 10 mm, or between about 0.3 mm and about 6 mm, or between about 0.3 mm and about 4 mm, or between about 1 mm and about 4 mm. [000102] The notch 134 has a notch length 166. In embodiments with more than one notch, the notch length 166 can vary amongst such notches 134. For example, the centermost notch 168 may have a second notch length 166A that is greater than any or all of the other notch lengths 166 (e.g., a first notch length 166). The notch length 166 is at least 0.3 mm. The notch length 166 is optionally between about 0.3 mm to about 4 mm, albeit the notch length 166 can be greaterthan 4 mm. The notch length 166 is between about 0.6 mm and about 1.5 mm, or between about 0.8 mm and about 1.2 mm. In certain embodiments, the notch length 166 is less than, about equal to, or greater than the notch separation length 160. In certain embodiments, the notch length 166 is less than, about equal to, or greater than the end space length 164. [000103] The notch 134 has a notch height 170. In certain embodiments having at least two notches 134, each notch 134 has a notch height 170 such that there is a first notch height 170 and a second notch height 170A. The first notch height 170 is less than, about equal to, or greater than the second notch height 170A and a third notch height 170B. Optionally, the second notch 134A corresponds to a centermost notch 168. Optionally, a third notch 134B is included, where the first notch 134 and the third notch 134B have an equal height (e.g., the first notch height 170), and the centermost notch 168 has a second notch height 170A. In such embodiments, the second notch height 170A may be less than, about equal to, or greater than the first notch height 170. In certain embodiments, having three or more notches 134, 134A, 134B, etc., each of the notches 134, 134A, 134B, etc. has a different notch height 170, or each of the notches 134, 134A, 134B, etc. has the same height 170, or some of the notches 134, 134A, 134B, etc. have the same height 170 while other notches 134, 134A, 134B, etc. have different heights 170A, 170B, etc. In one embodiment, the end-most notches 134, 134A have a first height 170, and the heights 170A, 170B, etc. of the notches 134B, etc. inward from such end-most notches 134, 134A progressively increase to the centermost notch 168. In another embodiment, the end-most notches 134, 134A have a first height 170, and the notch heights 170A, 170B, etc. of the notches 134B, etc. inward from such end-most notches 172 progressively decrease to the centermost notch 168. In a further embodiment, the heights 170 of respective adjacent notches 134 are staggered such that a first notch height 170 of a first notch 134 is greater than a second notch height 170A of a second notch 134A that is adjacent the first notch 134, while a third notch 134B has a third notch height 170B that is greater than the second notch height 170A, etc. The notch height 170 is between about 0.8 mm and about 2.5 mm, or between about 1 mm and about 2 mm, or about 0.8 mm, or about 1 mm, or about 1.2 mm, or about 1.5 mm, or about 2 mm, or about 2.5 mm. [000104] To maintain sufficient blade strength and stability, the notch surface area of the notches 134 cannot be too large with respect to the surface area of the portion of the blade 48 in which the notches 134 are (e.g., the surface area ratio(s)). For example, the notches 134 are within the support region 118 such that the notch surface area is between about 0.1% to about 50% of the support region total surface area of the support region 118. In some embodiments, the notch surface area is between about 0.1% and about 35% of the support region total surface area of the support region 118, or between about 1% to about 30%, or between about 5% andabout 25%. In some embodiments, the notch surface area is between about 0.1% to about 50% of the lower portion total surface area of the lower portion 128 of the support region 118. In some embodiments, the notch surface area is between about 15% and about 50% of the lower portion total surface area of the lower portion 128, or between about 10% to about 30%, or between about 15% and about 25%, or between about 20% and about 25%, or about 15%, or about 20%, or about 23%, or about 25%, or about 27% or about 30%. The notches 134 have a notch height 170 that is up to about 100% of the support height 190 of the support region 118, or up to about 90%, or up to about 85%, or up to about 80%, or up to about 75%, or up to about 70%, or up to about 65%, or up to about 60% or up to about 55%, or up to about 50%. [000105] Optionally, the at least one blade 48 has up to seventy-five notches 134, albeit longer blades exceeding 45 mm in blade length 72 may have further notches 134 subject to the surface area ratios contemplated in the present disclosure. The at least one blade 48 with a length 72 between 20 mm and 45 mm has between one notch 134 and seventy-five notches 134, or between one notch 134 and thirty notches 134, or between one notch 134 and twenty notches 134, or between about one notch 134 and fourteen notches 134, or between about three notches 134 and about nine notches 134, or between about five notches 134 and about seven notches 134, or about five notches 134, or about six notches 134, or about seven notches 134, or about eight notches 134. [000106] Optionally, as shown in exemplary FIGS. 10I-10K, the at least one notch 134 includes several slots 152 forming a comb-like shape. Optionally, there are between two and eight slots 152 on a given comb-like shaped notch 134. Optionally, at least two notches 134 each include several slots 152 forming a comb-like shape. Optionally, there are at least three notches 134, 134A, 134B, where two notches 134, 134A each include several slots 152 forming a comb- like shape. Such notches 134 having slots 152 forming a comb-like shape are on either side of a centermost notch 168. [000107] The slots are connected to a bridge portion 178 adjacent the lowermost edge 130. The bridge portion 178 optionally extends along the at least one notch 134 including the centermost notch 168. In such configuration, such notches 134 including the centermost notch 168 are slots 152. The bridge portion 178 optionally extends along all of the at least one notches 134. In such configuration, all the notches 134 including the centermost notch 168 are slots 152. [000108] The bridge portion 178 optionally has a bridge thickness 177 and a bridge length 181. The bridge thickness 177 is greater than the flange thickness 179 of the centermost notch 168 (or any notch 134). The bridge portion 178 optionally has a bridge thickness 177 that is about equal to or greater than the flange thickness 179 of the centermost notch 168. The bridge portion178 optionally has a bridge thickness 177 that is less than or equal to the flange thickness 179 of the centermost notch 168 (or any notch 134). [000109] The bridge thickness 177 is between about 0.1 mm and about 2 mm, or between about 0.1 mm and about 1 mm, or about 0.1 mm, or about 0.5 mm, or about 0.1 mm, or about 0.2 mm, or about 0.3 mm, or about 0.4 mm, or about 0.5 mm. [000110] The bridge length 181 is at least 0.3 mm. The bridge length 181 is optionally between about 0.3 mm to about 38 mm, albeit the bridge length 181 can be greater than 38 mm, particularly where the blade length 72 is greater than 45 mm. The bridge length 181 is between about 0.6 mm and about 1.5 mm, or between about 0.8 mm and about 1.2 mm. In certain embodiments, the bridge length 181 is less than, about equal to, or greater than half of the blade length 72. In certain embodiments, the bridge length 181 is less than half of the blade length 72. In certain embodiments, the bridge length 181 is less than, about equal to, or greater than the end space length 164. In certain embodiments, the bridge length 181 is greater than the end space length 164. In further embodiments, the bridge length 181 is less than half of the blade length 72 and greater than the end space length 164. In yet further embodiments, the bridge length 181 is greater than the notch length 166 of the centermost notch 168. [000111] Referring now to exemplary FIG. 5, in some embodiments, at least one blade guard 64 positioned such that it provides a support surface for the hirsute surface 40 proximal to or adjacent the cutting edge 70. In some such embodiments, the at least one blade guard 64 is welded to the cutting portion 52 of the at least one blade 48 (at the cutting portion 52 or the top surface 56 of the blade support region 54), is positioned adjacent to the at least one blade 48 and welded or glued about the lower end 74 of the blade guard 64 and the blade support region 54. [000112] As shown in at least exemplary FIG. 5, optionally, at least one trim blade 66 is provided. The at least one trim blade 66 is optionally within at least one blade unit 30. The at least one trim blade 66 is optionally within a second blade unit 62. The at least one trim blade 66 is optionally positioned such that its cutting edge 70 extends outwardly from the back side 76 of the cartridge 22. The at least one trim blade 66 is optionally positioned such that its cutting edge 70 extends outwardly from the cap 32 of the cartridge 22. In other configurations, the at least one trim blade 66 is positioned within the guard 28 (not shown). [000113] As shown in exemplary FIG.5 in further embodiments, the cartridge 22 includes a skin support element 68 adjacent to the at least one blade unit 30 and / or within the at least one blade unit 30. For example, a skin support element 68 is positioned between the guard 28 and the first blade 48. In another example, a skin support element 68 is positioned between the first blade 48 and a second blade 49. In further embodiments, skin support elements 68 are positionedin an alternating fashion with blades 48. In yet further embodiments, a skin support element 68 is positioned between a first blade unit 30 and a second blade unit 62. In still further embodiments, the skin support element 68 is a dull blade or a blank (i.e., a blade that does not have a sharpened blade edge). The skin support element 68 optionally includes varied topography 42 to provide functionality akin to the guard 28 and / or the cap 32, and as such, may include skin-stretching, exfoliating elements, or hair aligning features, or may optionally include lubricants, skin benefit agents, combinations thereof, etc. The skin support element 68 is optionally a blade guard 64. It is noted that the guard 28 and the cap 32 also function as skin support elements 68. [000114] Referring to exemplary FIGS.2-5, the cap 32 is positioned rearward of the at least one blade unit 30. The cap 32 optionally includes skin benefit agents such as lubricating material, emollients, nourishing ingredients, moisturizing ingredients, astringents, aseptics, anti- coagulants, combinations thereof, etc. Optionally, the cap 32 includes a skin benefit agent on the front surface 84. [000115] In further embodiments, the guard 28 and the cap 32 include a skin benefit agent such as a lubricant or soap. The guard 28 and / or cap 32 can be movable such that the guard 28 and cap are swingable, deflectable, or pivotable about a connection axis 88 to the cartridge 22 (or optionally, an end of the at least one blade unit 30). [000116] The razor cartridge 22 includes a housing 90 that includes one or more components. The guard 28, at least one blade unit 30, and / or cap 32 are optionally attached to and retained by or within the housing 90, by for instance, one or more clips 92. The guard 28, at least one blade unit 30, and / or cap 32 are optionally integral with the housing 90. In certain embodiments, the cartridge 22 includes one or more clips 92 that fasten the at least one blade unit 30 (and optionally other components such as at least one skin support element 68, the guard 28, and / or the cap 32) to the cartridge housing 90. Further embodiments include an integral housing 90. In some embodiments, the at least one blade unit 30 is insert molded into the housing 90, and the guard 28 and the cap 32 are also molded with the frame or are a second shot during molding. [000117] In certain embodiments, the cartridge housing 90 includes multiple components, such as an inlay 112 and a frame 113. The cartridge housing 90 optionally includes a frame 113 wherein the inlay 112 is at least partially contained and situated within the frame 113. Optionally, the frame 113 includes the guard 28 and / or the cap 32. The inlay 112 includes at least one pair of blade supports 180 and the at least one protrusion 182. [000118] As shown in exemplary FIG.8, the at least one protrusion 182 may extend upward from, laterally outward from, or laterally inward from a structure (e.g., a rail) 187 attached to orintegral with the housing 90 (e.g., inlay 112). The structure (e.g., a rail) 187 may extend between a front region (e.g., proximal the guard 28) of the housing 90 and an aft region (e.g., proximal the cap 32) of the housing 90. In some embodiments, at least one structure (e.g., the rail) 187 is located in the mid-lateral region 185, and / or the center region 186. In some embodiments, there are at least two structures (e.g., rails) 187, or at least three structures (e.g., rails) 187, etc.. The height of the structure (e.g., the rail) 187 is greater than or equal to the height of the protrusion 182. The height of the structure (e.g., the rail) 187 is greater than the height of the at least one protrusion 182. In other embodiments, the height of the structure (e.g., the rail) 187 is less than the height of the at least one protrusion 182. In other embodiments, the height of the structure (e.g., the rail) 187 is about equal to the height of the at least one protrusion 182. [000119] The at least one protrusion 182 may be configured within the center region 186 (e.g., a central protrusion 182). In some embodiments, the inlay 112 includes at least one mid- lateral protrusion 171 in a mid-lateral region 185. In some embodiments, the inlay 112 includes a central protrusion 182 and a mid-lateral protrusion 171 on each respective side of a central protrusion 182. Such inlay 112 optionally includes the guard 28 and / or the cap 32. [000120] The at least one protrusion 182, 171 may be structured in suitable shapes such that it has at least one ledge 183 extending laterally outwardly. The at least one protrusion 182 may be shaped, for instance, as a grommet, pintel, or have other shapes such as a top-hat shape, mushroom-shape, may include arcuate and / or flattened portions, roundels, fillets, chamfers, combinations thereof, etc.. [000121] In some embodiments (see FIGS.4, and 8-9), there is at least one protrusion 182 for a respective blade 48. In some embodiments, there are at least three protrusions 182 for a respective blade 48. In some such embodiments, a central protrusion 182 is provided with a mid- lateral protrusion 171 on each respective side of the central protrusion 182. In embodiments directed to a multi-blade cartridge 22, a set of protrusions 182 is provided for a respective blade 48, and an array of protrusions 182 are provided for the plurality of blades 48. [000122] The at least one pair of blades supports 180 is positioned at the side end region 184 of the cartridge 22. In some embodiments, at least one pair of blade supports 180 is positioned in a mid-lateral region 185. In most embodiments, there are at least two pairs of blade supports 180, where at least one is at each side end region 184 of the cartridge 22. In some embodiments, one or more pairs of blade supports 180 are within the mid-lateral region 185 of the cartridge 22. In some embodiments, one or more pairs of blade supports 180 are within the center region 186 of the cartridge 22. In some embodiments, a pair of blade supports 180 are positioned at each side end region 184, a second pair blade supports 180 are positioned at eachmid-lateral region 185, and a third pair of blade supports is positioned in the center region 186 of the cartridge 22. The pair of blade supports 180 define a channel 188 therebetween. The channel 188 can be substantially straight, can be arcuate, angled, and / or offset, and PCT Patent Application Publication No. WO2022 / 216438 is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein. The pair of blade supports 180 has a support height 190 (FIG. 6). The support height 190 is sufficient to enable assembly of the blade 48 into the channel 188 between the pair of blade supports 180. The support height 190 is sufficient to help retain the at least one blade 48 within the cartridge housing 90 (e.g., by limiting movement of the support region 118 towards the guard 28 and / or the cap 32, and / or providing a retention force and / or friction fit). [000123] The at least one protrusion 182 extends upwardly from the housing 90 (e.g., from the inlay 112). The at least one protrusion 182 extends towards the skin engaging surface 38. The at least one protrusion 182 has a protrusion height 192. The protrusion height 192 is optionally less than the blade support height 190 of the pair of blade supports 180. Optionally, the protrusion height 190 is about equal to the blade support height 190. Optionally, the protrusion height 190 is greater than the blade support height 192. [000124] The cartridge 22 includes at least one attachment region 94 (see FIG.1). The at least one attachment region 94 enables the cartridge 22 to selectively attach to, or matingly engage with a connector 24. The at least one attachment region 94 is in mechanical communication with reciprocal features on the connector 24. Alternatively, the at least one attachment region 94 is integral with at least one journal 96 on the connector 24. The at least one attachment region 94 optionally includes at least two attachment regions 94, or two attachment regions 94, 94A. The at least one attachment region 94 optionally includes a bearing surface 98 such as a shell bearing. The at least one attachment region 94 optionally includes an end 100 including a recess such as a trunnion or other suitably shaped feature to engage with a reciprocal feature on the journal 96 of the connector. Optionally, the at least one attachment region 94 includes a pin or a pin receiving structure that also enables a pivotal connection with the connector 24. [000125] Referring now to exemplary FIG. 2A, the cartridge 22 includes the cartridge housing 90 having a back side 76 defines a track 106 that interacts with a biasing element 102 on the connector 24 or a biasing element 102 on the handle 26 that engages through the connector 24. The track 106 optionally includes laterally positioned side rails 108 defining a recessed surface 110. The track 106 is positioned generally along the vertical axis 80 and is generally orthogonal to the length 82 of the cartridge 22 (see FIG.12). In some embodiments, the track 106 is positioned in the central portion 104 of the back side 76 of the cartridge 22. Infurther embodiments, the track 106 is positioned laterally outward of the central portion 104 of the back side 76 of the cartridge 22. [000126] The cartridge 22 may have a pivot axis 114 in a variety of locations depending on the configuration of the razor 20, including a pivot axis 114 within the guard 28, a pivot axis 114 in the cap 32, a pivot axis 114 generally centrally-located in the at least one blade unit 30, etc. [000127] The connector 24 includes a pair of journals 96 – a first journal 96 and a second journal 96A – that extend outwardly from the connector 24. Each journal 96 optionally includes an end 100 having a connecting feature such as a bearing surface such as a shell bearing. Each journal 96 optionally includes a connecting feature such as recess such as a trunnion or other suitably shaped feature to engage with a reciprocal feature on the attachment region 94 of the cartridge 22. Optionally, each journal 96 includes a pin or a pin receiving structure that also enables a pivotal connection with the attachment region 94 of the cartridge 22. [000128] The razor 20 includes a biasing element 102 that is in mechanical communication with the back side 76 of the cartridge 22 and the connector 24. The biasing element 102 extends from the connector 24. Optionally, the biasing element 102 optionally extends from the journals 96. The biasing element 102 has a number of configurations including arcuate, elongate, etc. The biasing element 102 is optionally generally aligned along or generally parallel to the central axis 194. [000129] Focusing now on the interrelationship of various components of the razor 20, the cartridge 22, the connector 24, and the handle 26 are generally aligned along the central axis 194. Optionally, the razor 20 has symmetry along the central axis 194. Optionally, each of the cartridge, 22, connector 24, and handle 26 have symmetry along the central axis 194. [000130] The cartridge 22 and the connector 24 are optionally attached, particularly as made commercially available to retailers and consumers. Optionally, the cartridge 22, connector, 24, and handle 26 are attached and configured for use by a consumer. These components are optionally integral. These components are optionally separable. [000131] In certain embodiments, the connector 24 and the handle 26 are attached, particularly as made commercially available to retailers and consumers. Optionally, the connector 24 and the handle 26 are integral. These components are optionally integral. These components are optionally separable. [000132] As shown in FIG.13, an exemplary process and related steps for the manufacture is disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. patent application publication 2022 / 0250266, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated for reference in its entirety. In shorter form, a so-called single edge razor blade having a bend 124 and of the alloys under evaluation are schematicallydepicted. Elongated stainless steel (and / or optionally a different material as contemplated herein) strip 196, as provided, is depicted at step (a). The strip 196 has a width 200 and a thickness 202 and includes a front edge portion 197 and a back edge portion 198. The width 200 of the strip 196 is preferably about 3 mm wide but can be any width 200 to suit the application at hand from about 2 mm or less to about 22 mm or more, or about 4 mm. The thickness 202 of the strip 196 as-provided can be 0.1 mm or less but is preferably about 0.076 mm. In other cases strip 196 having a thickness 202 of about 0.025-0.05 mm or greater than 0.1 mm, e.g.0.125 mm can be employed. At step (b) the strip 196 is hardened and tempered to a hardness about 660-850 HV by well-known process(es). At step (c) the front edge portion 197 is sharpened by any well-known sharpening process such as grinding and honing to provide an elongated cutting edge 70. [000133] As an alternative to the aforementioned, a double-edge razor blade can be employed. Strip material 196 having a suitable width 200 (e.g. about 22 mm) is perforated in continuous strip 196 form to provide apertures that can include an elongated center slot that can be used to support or locate the blade strip 196 during subsequent processes such as edge forming and edge coating and location holes that can be used to index the strip or to locate a discrete razor blade 48 during certain processes. Process steps (b) and (c) are performed as described above, with an exception that both the front edge portion 197 and back edge portion 198 are sharpened to provide cutting edges 70. The elongated strip 196 is then separated into discrete double edge razor blades 48. Process step (d) (below) is performed to both cutting edges 70 as described above. The double edge razor blade 48 is then split preferably adjacent the ends of the center slot to provide two single edge razor blades 48. [000134] Process step (f) is optionally performed before, in between, or after steps (a) through (e). As such, while listed as step (f), it is understood that it is optionally, by other means, reordered as effective step (b), (c), (d), (e), or (f), and similarly the other steps would be reordered sequentially to suit. Regardless, process step (f) is performed prior to the any such blade 48 being inserted into the cartridge housing 90. Process step (f) includes creating notches 134 in the strip 196 such that at least one notch 134 is created in the support region 118 of the at least one blade 48. Optionally, such notches 134, if effectively prior to step (b), are done to the support region 118 on both portions of strip 196 later resulting in two separate blades 48, or in an enlarged support region 118 for a double-edged blade 48. The at least one notches 134 are formed into the support region 118 of the blade 48 by way of stamping or punching, wire cutting (e.g., hot wire cutting), laser cutting, plasma cutting, ultrasonic welding, or other known means to one of skill in the art.[000135] Thereafter process step (g) (below) is performed. Returning to the single edge razor blade 48, at step (d) suitable coating(s) 204 applied to the cutting edge 70 by well-known processes. One or more under-coatings can include, but are not limited to, one or more of chromium, platinum, niobium, titanium, alloys of the aforementioned materials and compounds of the aforementioned materials compounded with e.g. carbon or nitrogen. A suitable titanium coating 204 is disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. patent application publication 2007 / 0186424 the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated for reference in its entirety. Also various types of hard carbon coatings 204 such as amorphous diamond, diamond-like-carbon (DLC) and combinations with the above can be applied. An outer coating 204 of a fluoropolymer material, preferably PTFE is applied. A suitable PTFE coating 204 is disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. patent application publication 2007 / 0124944 the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated for reference in its entirety, but the present application is not limited in this regard and any suitable coating 204 can be employed. The PTFE coating 204 can be cured and the curing process has a secondary effect of annealing at least the portion of the strip containing the cutting edge 70 to a hardness at least 550 HV and preferably about 620-640 HV. At step (e) a lengthwise extending portion 206 is cut from the strip 196 to provide a discrete razor blade 48. The discrete razor blade 48 has properties of the strip 196 from which it was cut. At step (g) the razor blade 48 is bent to provide a bend 124 in the middle region 122 between the forward portion 116 containing the cutting edge 70 and a support region 118 containing the lowermost edge 130. [000136] As noted above, process step (f) is optionally done before or after step (g). During step (g), the blade strip 196 is optionally subject to heating and cooling, in addition to other treatments forming interlayers (hard coatings) and other outer coatings thereafter (e.g., PTFE or other lubricious coatings, such as silicon). It is understood by one of skill in the art that during such treatment and coating processes, the metallurgy of the blade strip 196 is modified thereby potentially making it more difficult to create notches 134 as in step (f) discussed above. [000137] A representative sectional view of the razor blade 48 having a bend 124 is shown in FIG. 11. The bending process can be a punch-and-die process. The bending process can also be a "swivel bending" process, e.g. as described in commonly assigned U.S. patent application publication 2010 / 0107425 the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated for reference for its disclosure of a bending process. The bending process can also be any suitable process to impart a bend 124 to a razor blade 48 as exemplified in FIG. 11. The bending process is preferably performed without any prior reheating process to modify the razor blade's 48 structureor ductility in the region of the razor blade being bent, i.e. the middle region 122, that becomes the bend 124 after the bending process.[000138] As best shown in the exploded view of FIGS. 3-4 and 9, once the blade 48 is formed per the preceding steps (a) through (g) (see FIG.13), it is assembled into the cartridge 22 by positioning the at least one blade 48 into the cartridge housing 90 such that the support region 118 of the at least one blade 48 is aligned within the channel 188 formed between the at least one pair of blade supports 180 (which are located within each side end region 184 of the cartridge housing 90). Accordingly, the lowermost edge 130 is proximal the bottom of the channel 188 between the at least one pair of blade supports 180. The at least one blade 48 is positioned proximal to the at least one protrusion 182 located in the center region 186 of the cartridge housing 90. The at least one protrusion 182 is optionally positioned within the void 136 of the centermost notch 168. The at least one protrusion 182 is positioned to extend upwardly from the cartridge housing 90 towards the skin engaging surface 38 of the cartridge 22. Optionally, the centermost notch 168 includes at least one flange 150 extending inwardly from the side end region 184 of the blade 48 thereby creating a narrow dimension 154 (e.g. a narrow width) of the centermost notch 168. The at least one flange 150 may deflect (e.g. upwardly, outwardly) as the blade 48 is positioned onto the protrusion 182. Once the protrusion 182 clears the at least one flange 150, the flange 150 is released from its deflected position. The protrusion 182 is thereafter positioned within the notch 134 (e.g., the ledge 183 of the protrusion 182, 171 is proximal to or adjacent to the flange 150, where the ledge 183 is positioned above the flange 150 with respect to the lowermost edge 130). Optionally, the protrusion 182 has a geometry within the void 136 of the notch 134 that is smaller than the geometry of the void 136 such that the protrusion 182 is within the void 136 but is not supporting the blade 48. Optionally, the notch 134 includes a recess 158 adjacent the flange 150 that is suitably configured such that the geometry of the protrusion 182 fits within the void 136 and also the recess 158. The void 136, optionally the at least one recess 158, and the notch 134 engage each other to provide a connection between the blade 48 and the cartridge housing 90. “Connection” is understood in this specific context to describe the relationship between the protrusion 182 and the notch 134 thereby creating a connection without the protrusion 182 configured as a blade support 180 on either side end region 184 of the cartridge housing 90. [000139] Once the at least one blade 48 is assembled onto the cartridge housing 90, additional features of the cartridge 22 (e.g., guard 28, cap 32, etc.) are optionally assembled onto the cartridge housing 90. In certain embodiments, the cartridge housing 90 includes multiple components, such as an inlay 112. In some embodiments, the inlay 112 includes the at least one pair of blade supports 180 and the at least one protrusion 182. Such inlay 112 optionally includes the guard 28 and / or the cap 32, and / or features suitable for retaining such features by way ofmechanical fastening, chemical fastening (e.g. glue, ultrasonics, laser welding, etc.) or by way of a two-shot molding process. The cartridge housing 90 optionally includes a frame 113 wherein the inlay 112 is at least partially contained and situated within. Optionally, the frame 113 includes the guard 28 and / or the cap 32, the at least one pair of blade supports 180, and / or features suitable for retaining such features by way of mechanical fastening, chemical fastening (e.g. glue, ultrasonics, laser welding, etc.) or by way of a two-shot molding process. Optionally, the inlay 112 and the frame 113 are assembled together by way of mechanical fastening, chemical fastening (e.g. glue, ultrasonics, laser welding, etc.) or by way of a two-shot molding process. Such assembly of the inlay 112 and the frame 113 is optionally before or after the at least one blade 48 is inserted into the at least one pair of blade supports 180. Once the at least one blade 48 is positioned in the channel 188 defined between the at least one pair of blade supports 180, the at least one blade 48 is further positioned such that the at least one protrusion 182 is within the void 136 of the at least one notch 134 (e.g., the centermost notch 168, and in some embodiments also the mid-lateral notches 134A, 134B), the inlay 112 and the frame113 are attached, and other features such as the guard 28 and the cap 32 are assembled to the cartridge housing 90, a pair of clips 92 are attached to the cartridge housing 90 thereby retaining the components of the cartridge 22 together. The pair of clips 92 are attached by way of mechanical fastening (e.g., press-fit, interference fit, hot staking, deformation of the legs 208 and / or ends 210 of the clips 92 to thereby bend the ends 210 such that they are angled to the leg 208 of the clip 92, combinations thereof, etc.) and / or chemical fastening (e.g. glue, ultrasonics, laser welding, etc.). [000140] Optionally, the central region 132 is concave, either as a byproduct of the blade bending (e.g., a bow or camphor), or is otherwise biased to be concave. Optionally, the central region 132 is convex. The central region 132 is optionally biased to be convex. In such convex embodiment, the central region 132 is optionally biased upwardly into a convex configuration by (e.g., when configured with the inlay 112) at least one protrusion 182 engaging the at least one notch 134. [000141] The embodiments of the present disclosure are capable of controlled bending (e.g., deflection, projection, etc.) when under simulated shaving load conditions (e.g., activation) of 3 N, and 5 N. The load was applied to the forward region 116 of the blade 48 for deflection (e.g., the blade 48 going from a static configuration in an at-rest state to a concave configuration), and the load was applied to the support region 118 of the blade 48 for projection (e.g., the blade 48 going from a static state in an at-rest position to a convex configuration). Embodiments included control blade samples of 38 mm blades having no notches, flat blade embodimentscurrently sold as XTREME (3) by Edgewell Personal Care Brands, LLC. Testing was done on a TIRAtest Werkstoffprüfmaschine 28005 utilizing software from the same manufacturer and provided with the TIRAtest Werkstoffprüfmaschine 28005. Test sample blades 48 included one to eight notches 134, where such notches 134 were located within the support region 118, some notches 134 with openings 148 contiguous with the lowermost edge 130 while others were contained within the support region 118. At least four of each test sample were measured for z axis deflection (e.g., the deflection along the vertical axis 80 that is orthogonal to the cartridge length 82). Each sample included the inlay 112 and five blades 48. Notches 134 varied between about 0.8 mm and about 30 mm in width and about 0.8 mm to about 2.5 mm in height. Under activation (e.g., loading) conditions samples of blades 48 tested having five to eight notches 134 achieved preferred bending of 0.1 mm or greater and up to 1 mm. In such testing conditions, the load 176 is applied to rest upon the cap 32, each of the five blades 48, and the guard 28; the inlay 112 rests on a fixture 174 supported on each of its side end regions 184. The fixture 174 suitably retains the inlay 112 such that – other than the deflection as contemplated herein – does not substantially move during testing. Samples of blade 48 tested included one to eight notches 134 with widest notch widths 156 varying between 0.8 mm and 30 mm and notch heights 170 varying between 0.8 mm and 2.5 mm, with notches 134 within the support region 118 and / or with notches 134 having openings 148 to the lowermost edge 130 all were able to bend of over 0.4 mm under a 3 N and 5 N load 176. The amount of bending (e.g., deflection, or projection, etc.) of each sample of blade 48 was between about 0.3 and about 1.0m, or between about 0.4 mm and about 1.0 mm, or between about 0.4 mm and about 0.8 mm, or between about 0.4 mm and about 0.75 mm, or between about 0.4 mm and about 0.7 mm, or between about 0.4 mm and about 0.5 mm, or about 0.4 mm, or about 0.42 mm, or about 0.44 mm, or about 0.48 mm, or about 0.5 mm. [000142] In some embodiments, the blades 48 are configured within the cartridge 22 to bend such that the blades 48 are, under loading, convex (e.g., project about the center region 186, such that the center region 186 has a height that is elevated with respect to the side end regions 184). In some embodiments, the blades 48 are configured within the cartridge 22 to bend such that the blades 48 are, under loading, concave (e.g., deflect about the center region 186, such that the 186 has a height that is decreased with respect to the side end regions 184). In some embodiments, the blades 48 are configured within the cartridge 22 to bend such that the blades 48 are, under loading, convex (e.g., project about the center region 186, such that the center region 186 has a height that is elevated with respect to the side end regions 184), or concave (e.g., deflect about the center region 186, such that the center region 186 has a height that is decreased with respect to the side end regions 184).[000143] In some embodiments, the average deflection of the blade 48 (according to the above-mentioned test procedure and apparatus) is about equal to the average projection of the blade 48 (according to the above-mentioned test procedure and apparatus). In some embodiments, the average deflection of the blade 48 (according to the above-mentioned test procedure and apparatus) is greater than the average projection of the blade 48 (according to the above-mentioned test procedure and apparatus). In some embodiments, the average deflection of the blade 48 (according to the above-mentioned test procedure and apparatus) is greater than the average projection of the blade 48 (according to the above-mentioned test procedure and apparatus) by between about 10% and about 50%, or between about 10% and about 20%, or about 15%. [000144] At the outset of research, it was believed that notches 134 in the forwardmost region 116 and / or the middle region 122 would provide advantageous bending (e.g., deflection, projection, etc.) while maintaining adequate strength / support as the support region 118 of the blade 48 did not include at least one notch 134. Such blade 48 samples with notches 134 in the middle region 122 and the forwardmost region 116 were tested in accordance with the above- referenced method and all samples performed poorly (e.g., the standard deviation of bending was statistically significant). Accordingly and surprisingly, it was determined that notches 134 in the support region 118 provided controlled bending (e.g., deflection, projection, etc.) with a 95% confidence interval. The strength of the blade 48 in such samples was maintained despite the notches 134 in the support region 118. [000145] While the samples tested included inlay 112 with five blades 48, similar or greater bending (e.g., deflection, projection, etc.) will occur for an individual blade 48 with or without connection to an inlay 112, and / or an inlay 112 with up to five blades 48 (e.g., one blade, two blades, three blades, or four blades). Similarly, bending (e.g., deflection, projection, etc.) for an inlay 112 with six blades of at least about 0.4 mm and up to about 0.5 mm is within the scope of the present disclosure. Such bending (e.g., deflection, projection, etc.) of about 0.4 mm to about 0.5 mm is achieved under a 3 N, and / or 5 N applied force (e.g., load 176). [000146] As noted above, the at least one blade 48 will bend without the inlay 112. Testing was done on at least one blade 48 groupings including a single blade 48, three blades 48, and five blades 48. Four samples of each were tested. In such configurations the load 176 was applied to the forward region 116 of the at least one blade 48 for concave deflection. For concave deflection and the load 176 (e.g., 3N) was applied to the frame 113 (where the inlay 112 was provided with the frame 113). For clarity, for embodiments tested with the inlay 112 and / or the frame 113, the load 176 (e.g., 3N) was applied to the inlay 112 and / or frame 113 for convexdeflection. For the single blade 48, concave deflection was between 1.62 mm and 1.74 mm, with an average deflection of about 1.7 mm. For the three blade 48 configuration, concave deflection was between about 1.03 mm and 1.07 mm, with an average deflection of about 1.05 mm. For the five blade 48 configuration, concave deflection was between 0.64 mm and 0.68 mm, with an average deflection of about 0.65 mm. As shown, additional blades 48 stabilize concave deflection. [000147] The three blade 48 configurations (e.g., a single blade 48, three blades 48, and five blades 48) were also tested with the frame 113 and inlay 112. For the single blade 48, concave deflection was between 0.9 mm and 1.21 mm, with an average deflection of about 1.0 mm. For the three blade 48 configuration, concave deflection was between about 0.48 mm and 0.61 mm, with an average deflection of about 0.52 mm. For the five blade 48 configuration, concave deflection was between 0.38 mm and 0.5 mm, with an average deflection of about 0.44 mm. As shown, additional blades 48 with the inlay 112 (and or frame 113) further stabilize concave deflection. [000148] Convex testing was also conducted including the frame 113 and inlay 112. For the single blade 48, convex deflection was between 0.65 mm and 0.75 mm, with an average deflection of about 0.69 mm. For the three blade 48 configuration, convex deflection was between about 0.45 mm and 0.6 mm, with an average deflection of about 0.52 mm. For the five blade 48 configuration, convex deflection was between 0.39 mm and 0.54 mm, with an average deflection of about 0.46 mm. As shown, additional blades 48, and / or the inlay 112 (and / or the frame 113) decrease and stabilize convex deflection. [000149] In certain embodiments, the inlay 112 and the structures attached thereto such as the guard 28, the blade(s) 48, and / or the cap 32, deflect together and maintain substantially the same geometry [as they have in a rest configuration] with respect to the hirsute surface 40. In certain embodiments, the bending (e.g., deflection, projection, etc.) of the inlay 112 and the structures attached thereto such as the guard 28, the blade(s) 48, and / or the cap 32, have a generally linear bending (e.g., deflection, projection, etc.) profile as force increases. Such a profile provides a more consistent shaving experience as the elements (e.g., guard 28, blade(s) 48), and / or cap 32, by virtue of their attachment to the inlay 112) do not experience a significant change in bending (e.g., deflection, projection, etc.) that may surprise a consumer that reduces or increases pressure. Prior art samples tested including XTREME 3® as sold by Edgewell Personal Care Brands, LLC experience a curved deflection profile where the blades initially resist bending (e.g., deflection, projection, etc.) under load 176 (as compared to the samples of thepresent disclosure) and thereafter deflect to a greater extent as the load 176 increase (as compared to the samples of the present disclosure). [000150] In certain embodiments, blade 48 bends (e.g., deflects, projects, etc.) commensurate with bending (e.g., deflection, projection, etc.) of the guard 28 and / or the cap 32, and / or skin support elements 68. In one such embodiment, the guard 28 is configured to bend (e.g., deflect, project, etc.) with the at least one blade 48 (See arrows A-A in FIGS.12-12B, where FIG.12 is in a static state, and FIGS.12A-12B are in an activated (e.g., deflected, projected, etc.) state. In some of these embodiments, the cap 32 remains fixed (e.g., does not significantly bend (e.g., deflect, project, etc.) with the at least one blade 48, or to the same distance as the at least one blade 48) such that it continues to define the skin engaging surface 38. [000151] As blades 48 deflect (e.g., bend), the cutting of hair can become further close if the hirsute surface 40 drops below the skin engaging surface 38. As such, in embodiments where the cap 32 is static and does not deflect (e.g., bend) with the blades 48, the skin engaging surface 38 remains above the blades 48 (at least more so than if the cap 32 was not static) and mitigates against a further close shave or trim. In such an embodiment, the cap 32 is above or coplanar with the at least one blade 48 when the cartridge is in a static state. [000152] Optionally, the cap 32 remains static (e.g., does not deflect significantly with the at least one blade 48, or to the same distance as the at least one blade 48) and the cap 32 deflects with the at least one blade 48. Optionally, the skin support element 68 adjacent to the at least one blade 48 and / or amongst at least two blades 48 deflects with the blade(s) 48. Optionally, the skin support element 68 is static (as it relates to the deflection at least one blade 48) such that it helps maintain the skin engaging surface 38 more so above the blades 48 than if the skin support element 68 were not static. In such embodiments, the skin support element 68 is above or coplanar with the at least one blade 48 when the cartridge is in a static state. [000153] In some embodiments, a further close shave is desired. In such embodiments, the blades 48 are configured to project (e.g., bend) such that the blades 48 are above the skin engaging surface 38 thereby offering a closer shave to the user. Furthermore, the blades 48 in a convex configuration are advantageous in, for instance, shaving hair in a concave region (e.g., the armpit, behind the knee, under the chin, etc.). As with the blades 48 in a concave configuration, other features of the cartridge may also have such relative positions, e.g., the guard 28, the cap, 32, skin support element 68, etc.. [000154] A variety of materials are suitable for razor 20. For instance, hard plastics are generally suitable for cartridges 22, connectors 24, and handles 26, such as polypropylene, polyethylene and ABS. Thermoplastic elastomeric materials and rubbers are suitable for guards28, caps 32, the cartridge housing 90 including the at least one protrusion 182 and the track 106, handles 26, and various elements in the connector 24, and typically support skin supporting elements 68 and / or skin stretching / wiping, bending, frictional connections, grippability, etc. Metals such as metal alloys, zinc alloy, iron, and / or cast iron are typically suitable for the handle 26, while aluminum and stainless steel are used for the handle and also blades 30, 48, 62, springs, biasing elements 102, clips 92, etc. . Other materials for various components of the razor 20 include carbon fiber, composites, laminates, natural materials derived from wood and grass, compostable materials, recycled materials (e.g., recycled polypropylene) are also available. [000155] In some embodiments, the razor 20 and more specifically the connector 24 and / or the handle 26 comprise a plant-based, non-polymeric material, preferably one of wood-based and grass-based. One such material is a compressed leaf mass, e.g., palm leaves, or compressed plant mass such as corn byproduct or mushrooms. Another such material is bamboo (a type of grass). Another such wood is pine or other coniferous wood species (e.g., the fir, and the mighty Scots pine), balsam, poplar, birch, and the larch. Other fibrous materials include compressed wood and wood derivatives, paperboard, cardboard, particle board, OSB, etc. In some embodiments, the cartridge 22, connector 24, and / or handle 26 include recycled resin material or a biopolymeric material. Optionally, such components include a blend of recycled resin material and virgin resin material, of at least 50% or at least 60% or at least 70% or at least 80% recycled resin material by weight. Optionally, such components include a blend of biopolymeric material and virgin resin material, of at least 50% or at least 60% or at least 70% or at least 80% biopolymeric material by weight. Optionally, such components include a blend of biopolymeric material and recycled resin material, of at least 50% or at least 60% or at least 70% or at least 80% biopolymeric material by weight. Optionally, such components include a blend of biopolymeric material and recycled resin material, of at least 50% or at least 60% or at least 70% or at least 80% recycled resin material by weight. [000156] The cartridge 22, the connector 24, and the handle 26, are optionally multi-shot parts having a first material provided in a first shot during an injection molding process, and a second material provided in a second shot during an injection molding process. In any or all of the cartridge 22, the connector 24, and the handle 26, the first material may be a harder plastic, such as a polyethylene, polypropylene, or ABS, whether virgin, recycled, bio-based, or blends thereof. In any or all of the cartridge 22, the connector 24, and the handle 26, the second material may be a thermoplastic elastomeric material, whether as a percentage blend of the material, or be it virgin, recycled, bio-based, or combinations thereof.[000157] The at least one blade 48 includes an alloy, aluminum, or a stainless steel. More particularly, the at least one blade 48 optionally, includes a martensitic stainless steels having a carbon content 0.6-0.7% or more, about 13% (e.g.12.5% to 13.5%) chromium and substantially free of molybdenum have been used for making razor blades 48. These materials are widely available, have adequate corrosion resistance for their intended use and can be sharpened to provide a high-quality cutting edge. Exemplary commercially available materials are those such as GINS (e.g., GIN5) made by HITACHI METALS and 13C26 made by ALLEIMA (formerly SANDVIK). Another commercially available martensitic stainless steel suitable for manufacturing razor blades is the grade designated GIN7 manufactured by HITACHI METALS. [000158] The razor 20 of the present disclosure is advantageous in that the blades 48 and / or other features of the cartridge 22 permit controlled deflection or projection of the blades enabling contoured shaving or trimming. Furthermore, the cartridge housing 90 having at least one protrusion 182 and the track 106 in the central portion 104 of the cartridge 22 is configured such that the cartridge pivots about the pivot axis 114 while also directly biasing the at least one protrusion 182, thereby promoting the connection between the cartridge 22 and the at least one blade 48. In embodiments where the inlay 112 includes the guard 28 and where such inlay is a thermoplastic material, the central protrusion 182 attached to the inlay 112 is configured to form a connection with the notch 134 to promote the deflection (e.g., bending, in an activated state where a load 176 is applied) of the blade 48 and the guard 28 are similar if not equal. In such an embodiment, the shaving geometry as it relates on the hirsute surface 40 is generally unchanged from when the cartridge 22 is in a rest configuration, thereby potentially improving the quality and safety of the shave. [000159] The terms “substantially”, “generally” and / or “about” as contemplated herein are used with the appreciation that small variations in dimensions are within the present disclosure. Such small variations can include variations due to manufacturing tolerances and / or expansion / contraction and or wear of parts subjected to varying conditions (e.g., pressure, force, temperature, etc.), up to and including a 10% variance of the nominal dimension. [000160] While the principles of the disclosure have been described above in connection with specific apparatuses and methods, it is to be clearly understood that this description is made only by way of example and not as limitation on the scope of the disclosure. Specific details are given in the above description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it is understood that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. [000161] It is noted that the embodiments may be described as a process which is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a block diagram, etc. Although any one of these structures maydescribe the operations as a sequential process, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be rearranged. A process may correspond to a method, a function, a procedure, a subroutine, a subprogram, etc. [000162] The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" refer to one or more than one, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term "comprising a specimen" includes single or plural specimens and is considered equivalent to the phrase "comprising at least one specimen." The term "or" refers to a single element of stated alternative elements or a combination of two or more elements unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, "comprises" means "includes." Thus, "comprising A or B," means "including A or B, or A and B," without excluding additional elements. [000163] It is noted that various connections are set forth between elements in the present description and drawings (the contents of which are included in this disclosure by way of reference). It is noted that these connections are general and, unless specified otherwise, may be direct or indirect and that this specification is not intended to be limiting in this respect. Any reference to attached, fixed, connected or the like may include permanent, removable, temporary, partial, full and / or any other possible attachment option. [000164] No element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element herein is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C.112(f) unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for.” As used herein, the terms “comprise”, “comprising”, or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. [000165] While various inventive aspects, concepts and features of the disclosures may be described and illustrated herein as embodied in combination in the exemplary embodiments, these various aspects, concepts, and features may be used in many alternative embodiments, either individually or in various combinations and sub-combinations thereof. Unless expressly excluded herein all such combinations and sub-combinations are intended to be within the scope of the present application. Still further, while various alternative embodiments as to the various aspects, concepts, and features of the disclosures--such as alternative materials, structures, configurations, methods, devices, and components, and so on--may be described herein, such descriptions are not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list of available alternative embodiments, whether presently known or later developed. Those skilled in the art may readilyadopt one or more of the inventive aspects, concepts, or features into additional embodiments and uses within the scope of the present application even if such embodiments are not expressly disclosed herein. For example, in the exemplary embodiments described above within the Detailed Description portion of the present specification, elements may be described as individual units and shown as independent of one another to facilitate the description. In alternative embodiments, such elements may be configured as combined elements. It is further noted that various method or process steps for embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein. The description may present method and / or process steps as a particular sequence. However, to the extent that the method or process does not rely on the particular order of steps set forth herein, the method or process should not be limited to the particular sequence of steps described. As one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate, other sequences of steps may be possible. Therefore, the particular order of the steps set forth in the description should not be construed as a limitation.

Claims

Claims:

1. A razor blade, comprising: a forward region having a cutting edge; a middle region located adjacent the forward region and opposite to the cutting edge; a support region located adjacent the middle region, the support region having an upper portion that is generally opposite to a lower portion, the lower portion defines a lowermost edge that is generally opposite to the cutting edge; wherein the cutting edge is angled with respect to the lowermost edge; wherein the support region includes at least one notch and up to fourteen notches; wherein at least one of the at least one notch is contiguous with the lowermost edge; and wherein a ratio of a surface area of the support region with the at least one notch to a surface area of the support region without the at least one notch is between about 0.1% to about 50%.

2. The razor blade according to claim 1, wherein the at least one notch comprises between three and nine notches.

3. The razor blade according to claim 2, wherein the at least one notch comprises between five and seven notches.

4. The razor blade according to claim 1, wherein the at least one notch includes a centermost notch that is configured to have a geometry that is distinct from the geometry of all remaining at least one notch.

5. The razor blade according to claim 4, wherein the centermost notch comprises at least one flange, the at least one flange extending inwardly creating a narrow width of the centermost notch.

6. The razor blade according to claim 1, wherein each of the at least one notch is located solely in the lower portion.

7. The razor blade according to claim 1, wherein a ratio of the surface area of the lower portion of the support region with the at least one notch to a surface area of the lower portion of the support region without the at least one notch is between about 0.1% to about 50%.

8. The razor blade according to claim 1, wherein a notch separation length between each of the at least one notches is generally equal.

9. The razor blade according to claim 8, wherein an end space length between a side edge of the razor blade and an end-most notch is greater than or equal to the notch separation length between each of the at least one notches.

10. The razor blade according to claim 1, wherein the razor blade is a bent blade.

11. The razor blade according to claim 1, wherein the blade has a bend in the middle region, the bend having a bend angle defined between the cutting edge and the lowermost edge, the bend angle being between about 90 degrees and about 130 degrees.

12. A razor cartridge, comprising: a guard; a cap; at least one blade and up to eight blades positioned between the guard and the cap; each of the at least one blade comprising: a forward region having a cutting edge; a middle region located adjacent the forward region and opposite to the cutting edge; a support region located adjacent the middle region, the support region having an upper portion that is generally opposite to a lower portion, the lower portion defines a lowermost edge that is generally opposite to the cutting edge; wherein the cutting edge is angled with respect to the lowermost edge; wherein the support region includes at least one notch and up to fourteen notches; wherein at least one of the at least one notch is contiguous with the lowermost edge; and wherein a center region of each of the at least one blade deflects or projects at least about 0.4 mm and at most about 0.5 mm when a 3 N load is applied to the center region of the at least one blade.

13. The razor cartridge according to claim 12, wherein a ratio of a surface area of the support region with the at least one notch to a surface area of the support region without the at least one notch is between about 0.1% to about 50%.

14. The razor cartridge according to claim 12, wherein the razor cartridge further comprises: a cartridge housing; at least one pair of blade supports at each of an end region of the cartridge housing, each of the at least one pair of blade supports defining a channel therein; and at least one protrusion inward of the at least one pair of blade supports, the at least one protrusion located in the center region of the cartridge housing; wherein the at least one pair of blade supports and the at least one protrusion extend upwardly from a base portion of the cartridge housing and towards a skin engaging surface.

15. The razor cartridge according to claim 14, wherein the at least one protrusion is within the at least one notch.

16. A razor cartridge, comprising: a guard; a cap; a cartridge housing having a center region adjacent to an end region laterally outward of the center region, comprising: at least one pair of blade supports at each of the end regions of the cartridge housing, each of the at least one pair of blade supports defining a channel therein; at least one protrusion inward of the at least one pair of blade supports, the at least one protrusion located in the center region of the cartridge housing; wherein the at least one pair of blade supports and the at least one protrusion extend upwardly from a base portion of the cartridge housing and towards a skin engaging surface; at least one blade and up to eight blades positioned between the guard and the cap; each of the at least one blade comprising: a forward region having a cutting edge; a middle region located adjacent the forward region and opposite to the cutting edge;a support region located adjacent the middle region, the support region having an upper portion that is generally opposite to a lower portion, the lower portion defines a lowermost edge that is generally opposite to the cutting edge; wherein the cutting edge is angled with respect to the lowermost edge; wherein the support region includes at least one notch and up to fourteen notches; wherein the at least one protrusion engages at least one of the at least one notch and is(are) retained within at least one of the at least one notch.

17. The razor cartridge according to claim 16, wherein at least one of the at least one notch is contiguous with the lowermost edge.

18. The razor cartridge according to claim 16, wherein a ratio of a surface area of the support region with the at least one notch to a surface area of the support region without the at least one notch is between about 0.1% to about 50%.

19. The razor cartridge according to claim 16, wherein the at least one protrusion is a thermoplastic material.

20. The razor cartridge according to claim 16, wherein a center region of each of the at least one blade deflects or projects at least about 0.4 mm and up to about 0.5 mm when a 3 N load is applied to the center region of the at least one blade.

21. A razor blade 48 according to any preceding claim, comprising: a forward region 116 having a cutting edge 70; a middle region 122 located adjacent the forward region 116 and opposite to the cutting edge 70; a support region 118 located adjacent the middle region 122, the support region 118 having an upper portion 126 that is generally opposite to a lower portion 128, the lower portion 128 defines a lowermost edge 130 that is generally opposite to the cutting edge 70; wherein the cutting edge 70 is angled with respect to the lowermost edge 130; wherein the support region 118 includes at least one notch 134 and up to fourteen notches; wherein at least one of the at least one notch 134 is contiguous with the lowermost edge 130; andwherein a ratio of a surface area of the support region with the at least one notch 134 to a surface area of the support region 118 without the at least one notch 134 is between about 0.1% to about 50%.

22. The razor blade 48 according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one notch 134 comprises between three and nine notches 134.

23. The razor blade 48 according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one notch 134 comprises between five and seven notches 134.

24. The razor blade 48 according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one notch 134 includes a centermost notch 168 that is configured to have a geometry that is distinct from the geometry of all remaining at least one notch 134.

25. The razor blade 48 according to any preceding claim, wherein the centermost notch 168 comprises at least one flange 150, the at least one flange 150 extending inwardly creating a narrow width 154 of the centermost notch 168.

26. The razor blade 48 according to any preceding claim, wherein each of the at least one notch 134 is located solely in the lower portion 128.

27. The razor blade 48 according to any preceding claim, wherein a ratio of the surface area of the lower portion of the support region 118 with the at least one notch 134 to a surface area of the lower portion 128 of the support region 118 without the at least one notch 134 is between about 0.1% to about 50%.

28. The razor blade 48 according to any preceding claim, wherein a notch separation length 160, 160A between each of the at least one notches 134 is generally equal.

29. The razor blade 48 according to any preceding claim, wherein an end space length 164 between a side edge 162 of the razor blade 48 and an end-most notch 172 is greater than or equal to the notch separation length 160, 160A between each of the at least one notches 134.

30. The razor blade 48 according to any preceding claim, wherein the razor blade 48 is a bent blade 60.

31. The razor blade 48 according to any preceding claim, wherein the blade has a bend in the middle region, the bend having a bend angle defined between the cutting edge and the lowermost edge, the bend angle being between about 90 degrees and about 130 degrees.

32. A razor cartridge 22 according to any preceding claim, comprising: a guard 28; a cap 32; at least one blade 48 and up to eight blades positioned between the guard 28 and the cap 32; each of the at least one blade 48 comprising: a forward region 116 having a cutting edge 70; a middle region 122 located adjacent the forward region 116 and opposite to the cutting edge 70; a support region 118 located adjacent the middle region 122, the support region 118 having an upper portion 126 that is generally opposite to a lower portion 128, the lower portion 128 defines a lowermost edge 130 that is generally opposite to the cutting edge 70; wherein the cutting edge 70 is angled with respect to the lowermost edge 130; wherein the support region 118 includes at least one notch 134 and up to fourteen notches; wherein at least one of the at least one notch 134 is contiguous with the lowermost edge 130; and wherein a center region 186 of each of the at least one blade 48 deflects or projects at least about 0.4 mm and at most about 0.5 mm when a 3 N load is applied to the center region 186 of the at least one blade 48.

33. The razor cartridge 22 according to any preceding claim, wherein a ratio of a surface area of the support region with the at least one notch 134 to a surface area of the support region 118 without the at least one notch 134 is between about 0.1% to about 50%.

34. The razor cartridge 22 according to any preceding claim, wherein the razor cartridge 22 further comprises a cartridge housing 90, at least one pair of blade supports 180 at each of a side end region 184 of the cartridge housing 90, each of the at least one pair of blade supports 180 defining a channel therein 188; andat least one protrusion 182 inward of the at least one pair of blade supports 180, the at least one protrusion 182 located in the center region 186 of the cartridge housing 90; wherein the at least one pair of blade supports 180 and the at least one protrusion 182 extend upwardly from a base portion of the cartridge housing 90 and towards a skin engaging surface 38.

35. The razor cartridge 22 according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one protrusion 182 is within the at least one notch 134.

36. A razor cartridge 22 according to any preceding claim, comprising: a guard 28; a cap 32; a cartridge housing 90 having a center region 186 adjacent to a side region 184 laterally outward of the center region 186, comprising: at least one pair of blade supports 180 at each of the side end regions 184 of the cartridge housing 90, each of the at least one pair of blade supports 180 defining a channel 188 therein; at least one protrusion 182 inward of the at least one pair of blade supports 180, the at least one protrusion 182 located in the center region 186 of the cartridge housing 90; wherein the at least one pair of blade supports 180 and the at least one protrusion 182 extend upwardly from a base portion of the cartridge housing 90 and towards a skin engaging surface 38; at least one blade 48 and up to eight blades positioned between the guard 28 and the cap 32; each of the at least one blade 48 comprising: a forward region 116 having a cutting edge 70; a middle region 122 located adjacent the forward region 116 and opposite to the cutting edge 70; a support region located adjacent the middle region 122, the support region 118 having an upper portion 126 that is generally opposite to a lower portion 128, the lower portion 128 defines a lowermost edge 130 that is generally opposite to the cutting edge 70; wherein the cutting edge 70 is angled with respect to the lowermost edge 130; wherein the support region 118 includes at least one notch 134 and up to fourteen notches;wherein the at least one protrusion 182 engages at least one of the at least one notch 134 and is(are) retained within at least one of the at least one notch 134.

37. The razor cartridge 22 according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the at least one notch 134 is contiguous with the lowermost edge 130.

38. The razor cartridge 22 according to any preceding claim, wherein a ratio of a surface area of the support region with the at least one notch 134 to a surface area of the support region 118 without the at least one notch 134 is between about 0.1% to about 50%.

39. The razor cartridge 22 according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one protrusion 182 is a thermoplastic material.

40. The razor cartridge 22 according to any preceding claim, wherein a center region 186 of each of the the at least one blade 48 deflects or projects at least about 0.4 mm and up to about 0.5 mm when a 3 N load is applied to the center region 186 of the at least one blade 48.

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