Barber Comb With Fixed And Slideable Reference Points

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hair styling tools lack a reliable method to ensure accurate and reproducible measurements along the hairline, particularly for very short hair, where minor imperfections are noticeable, and current combs are either too bulky for use with clippers or do not provide necessary fixed and slideable reference points for precise cuts.

Innovation Solution

A barber comb with a terminal, fixed reference point and a slideable reference point that can be placed along the comb's length, allowing for precise measurement and replication of haircuts or styles by establishing two discrete points for consistent length and angle maintenance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If prior combs are used for hair styling, then basic combing function is provided, but they lack fixed and slideable reference points for accurate measurement along the hairline

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement precisionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The comb is segmented into functional zones: the backbone serves as a reference axis, fixed reference points are positioned at specific locations along the backbone, and a slideable reference point can be moved to different positions. This segmentation allows each element to contribute to measurement precision without requiring a completely complex new device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The comb structure itself provides the measurement reference system through its backbone and integrated reference points, eliminating the need for separate measuring tools. The comb serves both its traditional function of styling hair and the additional function of providing precise measurement references along the hairline.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If prior combs with slideable points are used, then some measurement capability is provided, but the slideable points interfere with establishing discrete reference points and general comb use

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidmeasurement precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The reference system is segmented into a fixed component (reference points attached to the backbone) and a movable component (slideable reference point). This segmentation allows the fixed points to provide stable reference locations while the slideable point can be positioned as needed, preventing interference between the two functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The backbone acts as an intermediary structure that carries both the fixed reference points and supports the slideable reference point. This intermediary element allows the two types of reference points to coexist without interfering with each other, maintaining both ease of operation and measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If prior combs are used, then general combing function is provided, but they are too bulky for use with clippers

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidvolume
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The comb is designed to serve multiple functions: traditional hair combing, providing measurement references for precision cutting, and serving as a guide for clippers. By integrating the reference point system into the comb backbone, the device achieves multi-functionality without requiring separate tools, enhancing adaptability while maintaining a compact form.

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

Data Source

PatentUS20140230837A1Fixed point barber comb and methods of use
Publication Date: 2014.08.21 HODGE MORONO
  • US20140230837A1 patent drawing
  • US20140230837A1 patent drawing
  • US20140230837A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides a barber instrumentality useful for accurate and reproducible hair styling. In particular, methods are provided herein for the use of the instrumentality wherein precise measurements can be taken to reproduce certain styles within a haircut, including cutting with reference to the outline of the hair on the head (the hairline), especially around the temple.