Arc-Shaped Shaving Cartridge Coupling Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current coupling mechanisms for shaving devices require complex structures and multiple components, leading to increased space requirements and complexity, making them less efficient and user-friendly.

Innovation Solution

A simplified coupling mechanism using a first and second connector with arc-shaped paths and complementary locking members, where the second connector moves along an arc-shaped path to engage with the first connector, facilitated by a spring-biased locking member and actuation mechanism for easy engagement and disengagement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional coupling mechanisms are used, then engagement and disengagement of shaving cartridge is achieved, but the structure becomes complex and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveengagement and disengagement functionVSAvoidcoupling mechanism structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple coupling functions into a single integrated connector component. The connector incorporates both the engagement surface for cartridge attachment and the locking mechanism within one piece, eliminating the need for separate coupling components and reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining reliable engagement and disengagement functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the engagement interface for the shaving cartridge, incorporates a spring-biased locking mechanism for secure attachment, and enables user actuation for release. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed in the coupling mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If multiple components are used in coupling mechanism, then engagement function is achieved, but space requirements for accommodating components increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoupling functionVSAvoidspace for components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

By merging the locking mechanism, engagement surface, and actuation interface into a single connector component, the patent significantly reduces the volume required for the coupling mechanism. The spring-biased locking feature is integrated within the connector body itself, eliminating the need for separate locking components and reducing the space needed in the handle assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If traditional linear motion coupling is used, then engagement is achieved, but the mechanism requires complex kinematics and more components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveengagement and disengagementVSAvoidkinematics of coupling mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a curved or arc-shaped engagement surface on the connector that interfaces with the shaving cartridge. This curved geometry enables smooth engagement and disengagement motions while simplifying the kinematic requirements compared to traditional linear multi-component mechanisms. The spring-biased locking member follows a natural arc path during operation, reducing the need for complex guiding structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

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

This solution reduces the bulkiness and complexity of the mechanism, allowing for a more compact and user-friendly connection of shaving cartridges to the handle, while ensuring secure engagement and easy release.

Implementation Method 1

a spring-biased locking member and actuation mechanism for easy engagement and disengagement

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

the second connecting member is configured to move towards the first connecting member and engage with the latter in the course of the motion of the second connector along a substantially arc-shaped path

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentEP3922421B1Coupling mechanism
Publication Date: 2024.09.25 BIC VIOLEX SINGLE MEMBER SA
  • EP3922421B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3922421B1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2B
  • EP3922421B1 patent drawingFigure 2C~3

AI summary

A coupling mechanism (10) for connecting a replaceable shaving cartridge (102) of a shaving device (100) to a handle (104) of the shaving device, the coupling mechanism (10) comprising: - a first connector (20) of the replaceable shaving cartridge (102) that is adapted to move along an axial direction, - a second connector (40) of the handle (104) that is adapted to move along a substantially arc-shaped path with respect to the handle when at least one connector of the first connector (20) and the second connector (40) is pushed against the other connector, the second connector being adapted to mechanically engage with the first connector in the course of its motion so as to reach an engaged position with the first connector, - a locking member (60) of the handle (104) that is adapted to lock the second connector (40) when the latter is in the engaged position with the first connector (20).