Combination Shaving and Trimming Device with Selective Power

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Solution Overview

Problem

Consumers face inconvenience when using multiple grooming tools for shaving and trimming, such as razors and electric trimmers, which requires handling multiple implements for different grooming tasks.

Innovation Solution

A combination powered shaving and trimming device with a handle, trimmer, razor attachment, and dual electrical arrangements that allow for separable power supply to either the trimmer or razor attachment, enabling a single device to function as both a trimmer and a razor, with a switch for selective power actuation and components that are impervious to liquids.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate grooming tools (razor, scissors, electric trimmer) are used, then each tool can perform its specific function effectively, but the user must handle multiple implements which is inconvenient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegrooming functionalityVSAvoidhandling convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple grooming functions (trimming and razor attachment) into a single handle unit with a shared power source. The handle contains a motor that can power both the trimmer and the razor attachment, eliminating the need to carry separate battery-powered devices. This merging reduces the number of implements the user must handle while maintaining all necessary grooming capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The handle is designed as a universal platform that can support multiple attachments and perform multiple functions. The single power source in the handle can selectively power different attachments (trimmer or razor), making the handle a multi-functional device that adapts to different grooming needs without requiring separate specialized tools.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If a combination device integrates both trimmer and razor functions, then handling convenience improves, but the device complexity increases with dual electrical arrangements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehandling convenienceVSAvoidelectrical arrangement

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical system is segmented into separate first and second electrical arrangements, each independently capable of powering the handle. This segmentation allows the device to operate with either attachment without requiring complex switching mechanisms or a single complex power system. Each electrical arrangement can be independently activated based on which attachment is installed, simplifying the control logic despite the dual-capability design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If the device is designed to be impervious to liquids, then reliability in wet conditions improves, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewet condition performanceVSAvoidliquid resistance implementation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The handle is designed with a sealed structure that acts as a protective shell, making the device impervious to liquids. This shell encapsulates the internal components (motor, electrical arrangements, battery) and prevents water ingress, allowing the device to be used in wet conditions such as showers without compromising the electronics. The sealing approach is more feasible than creating entirely waterproof components from scratch.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Data Source

PatentEP2340154B1Combination shaving and trimming device

Publication Date: 2012.11.28 THE GILLETTE CO

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AI summary

A combination shaving and trimming device (100) includes a handle (102) having an upper end (104) and lower end (106), a powered trimmer (108) disposed adjacent the upper end, a wet-shaving razor attachment (200) comprising a connecting structure (202) adapted for mounting over the trimmer onto the upper end, and a razor cartridge (204) that mates with the connecting structure.