Interchangeable Lice Comb Attachments for Different Hair Types

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing combs are ineffective in removing head lice eggs and nits across different hair types, particularly for fine and coarse hair, leading to incomplete eradication.

Innovation Solution

A comb device with a detachable handle and receiver section, allowing interchangeable combs with varying tooth spacings, designed for efficient removal of head lice eggs and nits across different hair types.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If metal long tooth combs are used, then they are effective for thick hair, but they snag and pull fine hair uncomfortably

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveeffectiveness for thick hairVSAvoidcomfort for fine hair
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The comb device is divided into multiple interchangeable comb attachments with different tooth configurations. Each comb is optimized for specific hair types: metal combs for thick hair and plastic combs for fine hair, allowing users to segment their combing routine by hair type

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The single comb device handle can accommodate multiple comb attachments serving different functions. The universal receiver section allows one handle to perform multiple combing tasks across different hair types, making the device versatile for all hair types from fine to coarse

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

2Ease of operation

If plastic short-tooth combs are used, then they are comfortable for fine hair, but they are not effective at removal of lice and eggs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomfort for fine hairVSAvoideffectiveness at removal
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The comb device separates comfort function from removal function into different attachments. Plastic combs provide comfort for fine hair during initial combing, while dedicated metal removal combs with specific tooth spacings handle the eradication of lice and eggs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The comb device handle serves as a universal platform that can attach both comfort-oriented plastic combs and effectiveness-oriented metal removal combs, allowing one device to fulfill both comfort and removal requirements

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

3Device complexity

If a single comb design is used, then the device is simple, but it cannot effectively treat all hair types

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of deviceVSAvoideffectiveness across hair types
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The comb device employs a universal handle design with a standardized receiver section that can accommodate multiple comb attachments. This allows a single base device to serve multiple hair types and treatment stages, achieving versatility without requiring multiple separate combs

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

Solution Approach 2:

The comb device transitions from a static single-comb design to a dynamic interchangeable attachment system. Users can change comb attachments based on hair type and treatment stage, making the device adaptable rather than fixed in its functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12520922B2Comb device for removal of head lice from hair
Publication Date: 2026.01.13 HUTCHINSON EILEEN
  • US12520922B2 patent drawing
  • US12520922B2 patent drawing
  • US12520922B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A comb device for assisting with the removal of head lice from hair includes a comb handle having a grip section configured to be held in a user's hand for manipulation and movement in use, and a receiver section configured to detachably receive a comb in use, and at least one comb. The comb handle and at least one comb are configured for detachable connection in use.