Elastomeric Return Element for Shaving Assembly Pivot
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shaving systems with replaceable blade units often rely on complex pusher and follower mechanisms for resistance and return, which can be cumbersome and costly to maintain, whereas there is a need for a more efficient and cost-effective solution that provides similar functionality.
Innovation Solution
A shaving system incorporating a flexible return element made of elastomeric material, such as thermoplastic elastomers or rubber, that provides resistance and return force, allowing the blade unit to pivot and return to its rest position, integrated with the handle and blade unit as a single replaceable assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pusher and follower mechanism is used to provide resistance and return force, then the shaving system provides effective resistance during shaving, but the mechanism becomes complex and costly to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of providing resistance and return force from the complex pusher-follower mechanism and implements it through a simplified elastomeric return element. The return element is a single flexible component that replaces the multi-part mechanical linkage, maintaining the necessary force while eliminating the complexity of interconnected moving parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical pusher-follower system with an elastomeric return element that uses elastic deformation to provide the same resistance and return force. This replacement transitions from a rigid mechanical linkage system to a flexible elastic element, reducing complexity while preserving functionality.
2Reliability
If a pusher and follower mechanism is used, then resistance during shaving is provided, but maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adopts a disposable blade unit design where the elastomeric return element is integrated into a single-use or limited-use replaceable assembly. Instead of maintaining a permanent pusher-follower mechanism, the entire blade unit including the return element is discarded and replaced when dull, eliminating maintenance costs while ensuring consistent performance throughout the product lifecycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the return element with the blade unit housing to create an integrated assembly. This combination ensures that the elastomeric return element remains properly positioned and functional throughout the life of the blade unit, eliminating the need for separate maintenance of the return mechanism while maintaining effective resistance during shaving.
3Device complexity
If a flexible elastomeric return element is used, then device complexity is reduced, but the mechanism must maintain effective resistance and return force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent carefully selects and optimizes the physical parameters of the elastomeric return element, including its durometer (hardness), cross-sectional geometry, length, and mounting configuration. These parameter adjustments ensure that the simplified flexible element generates sufficient resistance force during shaving and provides adequate return force, matching or exceeding the performance of the original pusher-follower mechanism while maintaining structural simplicity.
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 simplifies the mechanism by using a flexible elastomeric return element, reducing costs and complexity while maintaining effective resistance and return force, enhancing user experience and shaving efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A shaving system incorporates a flexible return element made of elastomeric material, such as thermoplastic elastomers or rubber, that provides resistance and return force
Data Source
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AI summary
A replaceable shaving assembly comprising a blade unit 20; an interface element 14 configured to removeably connect the blade unit to a handle 12, on which the blade unit is pivotably mounted, the interface element including an elastomeric return element 16 configured to provide a return force between the blade unit and the handle; wherein the angle of the blade unit with respect to the handle is 15 degrees at rest, and the angle of the blade unit with respect to the skin surface ranges from 15° to 105° during shaving; and comprising one or more support features 40 located on the blade unit that act as a stop for a distal end of the return element.