Elastomeric Ring Grip for Shaver Handle Ergonomics

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing handheld devices, such as razors and toothbrushes, have rigid handles that lack flexibility and ergonomics, failing to provide a comfortable and responsive grip, especially when used in wet or soapy environments.

Innovation Solution

A handheld device design featuring a handle with a docking member and a gripping portion that retains an elastomeric substrate with overlapping rings, allowing for a flexible and adaptive grip, enabling enhanced control and comfort through dynamic resistance and customizable surface treatments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If rigid handles are used in handheld devices, then structural strength and stability are improved, but flexibility and ergonomic comfort deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidergonomic comfort
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The handle is divided into two distinct segments: a rigid core structure providing structural strength, and a flexible elastomeric substrate layer providing ergonomic comfort. This segmentation allows each part to fulfill its specific function without compromise.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The handle employs a composite structure combining rigid materials (providing strength and stability) with flexible elastomeric materials (providing comfort and adaptability). This composite approach resolves the contradiction by integrating materials with complementary properties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Ease of operation

If external grip material is added to rigid handles, then gripping comfort is improved, but the handle remains rigid and elongated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegripping comfortVSAvoidhandle shape flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The elastomeric substrate acts as a flexible shell that conforms to the user's hand, replacing the traditional rigid elongated shape with a form that adapts to ergonomic requirements while maintaining structural integrity through the underlying rigid core.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Length of moving object

If the handle is made shorter and more portable, then compactness is improved, but control responsiveness may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehandle lengthVSAvoidcontrol responsiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The elastomeric substrate changes the mechanical parameters of the handle by introducing flexibility and compliance, allowing a shorter handle length to maintain control responsiveness through adaptive deformation rather than rigid leverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

The elastomeric substrate provides a softer feel, improved grip, and ergonomic benefits, allowing users to apply force effectively while maintaining comfort, with the ability to change substrates based on user preferences or environmental conditions.

Implementation Method 1

an elastomeric substrate which provides a flexible and adaptive grip, enabling enhanced control and comfort

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

an elastomeric substrate which provides a flexible and adaptive grip, enabling enhanced control and comfort through dynamic resistance

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP2958717B1Handle for a shaver
Publication Date: 2021.05.19 THE GILLETTE CO
  • EP2958717B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2958717B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2e
  • EP2958717B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~4

AI summary

A hand held device with a handle comprising a gripping portion having a top surface comprising a series of overlapping rings elements.