Adjustable Comb Attachment for Multiple Clipper Blade Sizes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing comb attachments for hair clippers are typically sized to fit only one blade size, limiting their versatility and compatibility with different blade configurations.

Innovation Solution

A comb attachment with an adjustable mechanism that can be shifted to accommodate different blade sizes, featuring a retaining tab and slide module that moves between positions to securely attach to either a 10-blade or 30-blade configuration, utilizing a magnet for attachment and detent mechanisms for secure positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a comb attachment is designed to fit only one blade size, then the attachment is simple in structure and easy to manufacture, but the versatility and compatibility with different blade configurations is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with different blade sizesVSAvoidstructure of comb attachment

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The comb attachment incorporates a dynamic adjustment mechanism that allows the retaining tab to move between different positions. The slide module can be shifted along the diagonal slot to accommodate different blade sizes (10-blade or 30-blade configurations), transforming a static attachment into an adaptable one that maintains secure engagement regardless of blade size.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The comb attachment is designed with universal compatibility to work with multiple blade sizes. By incorporating an adjustable retaining tab mechanism, a single comb attachment design can serve both 10-blade and 30-blade configurations, eliminating the need for separate attachments for different blade sizes and improving overall versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If an adjustable mechanism is added to accommodate multiple blade sizes, then versatility is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with different blade sizesVSAvoidmanufacturing of comb attachment

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustment mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a slide module with a retaining tab, a diagonal slot for movement guidance, and detent positions for securing. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately using standard machining processes, simplifying production despite the increased overall functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The design utilizes parameter changes in the position of the retaining tab along the diagonal slot to accommodate different blade sizes. By varying only the position parameter rather than the entire attachment geometry, the manufacturing complexity is minimized while still achieving multi-size compatibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If the retaining tab is positioned to accommodate one blade size, then the attachment is secure for that blade size, but it cannot be used with other blade sizes without adjustment

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure attachmentVSAvoidcompatibility with different blade sizes

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The comb attachment includes self-aligning features where the slide module automatically engages with the diagonal slot and the detent mechanism provides automatic positioning. When the comb attachment is installed, the retaining tab self-adjusts to the appropriate detent position based on the blade size, ensuring secure attachment without requiring manual intervention or complex adjustment procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables the comb attachment to be used with both 10-blade and 30-blade configurations, ensuring secure attachment and preventing damage during installation and removal, enhancing versatility and compatibility with various blade sizes.

Implementation Method 1

utilizing a magnet for attachment

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

detent mechanisms for secure positioning

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical engagement: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentUS9943972B2Comb attachment having adjustment mechanism to accommodate multiple blade sizes

Publication Date: 2018.04.17 ANDIS CO

AI summary

An adjustable comb for use on a clipper having one of a first lower blade of first size or a second lower blade of second size. One of these lower blades is an active blade when attached to the clipper. The adjustable comb includes an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the position of a retaining tab that engages a rear edge of the active blade. The adjustment mechanism is shifted in a first direction to position the retaining tab for the first lower blade, and is shifted in a second direction to position the retaining tab for the second lower blade.