Modular Clipper Architecture for Interchangeable Power and Functions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hair clippers are limited to singular power systems and specific functions, requiring multiple units for different tasks, leading to storage and power capacity issues.

Innovation Solution

A modular clipper system with interchangeable modular layers, including a housing, cover plates, and power adapters, allowing for a universally powered and user-configurable clipper system that minimizes manufacturing complexity and cost.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If clippers are designed with heavy-duty components to operate at higher SPM for dense hair, then the structural integrity is improved, but the weight of the clipper increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidclipper weight
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The clipper is divided into modular components including a main body, interchangeable cover plates, and separate power adapters. This segmentation allows the heavy-duty motor and structural components to be concentrated in the main body, while lighter interchangeable parts reduce overall weight when heavy-duty components are not needed for the specific task.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple clipper units are owned to serve different functions and power systems, then the versatility is improved, but the storage and power capacity problems worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidstorage space
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The clipper system is designed with universal compatibility across multiple cover plates and power adapters that attach to a single main body. Users can interchange cover plates for different blade configurations and attach either battery or AC power adapters, allowing one clipper unit to perform multiple functions that previously required separate devices.

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple clipper units are owned to serve different power systems, then the adaptability to different power sources is improved, but the power capacity management becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower system flexibilityVSAvoidpower capacity management
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Power adapters serve as intermediary components that bridge different power sources (battery or AC) to the clipper motor. These standardized adapters simplify power capacity management by providing a uniform interface, allowing users to switch between power sources without dealing with complex integration issues or multiple specialized charging systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Device complexity

If clippers are designed as single-unit devices with fixed functionality, then the device complexity is reduced, but the versatility and adaptability worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedesign simplicityVSAvoidfunctional flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The clipper system transitions from a static, fixed-function design to a dynamic, reconfigurable system. The interchangeable cover plates and power adapters allow the device to adapt its functionality based on user needs, while the modular architecture keeps the base design simple and manageable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12629852B2Modular clippers
Publication Date: 2026.05.19 WORX4U2
  • US12629852B2 patent drawing
  • US12629852B2 patent drawing
  • US12629852B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A modular clipper, comprising a main body, a first cover plate; and a power adapter, the first cover plate is removeably attached to an upper housing of the main body, and the power adapter is removeably connected to a rear of the main body. The first cover plate is preferably provided in conjunction with drive lever bearing components and a drive lever. The first cover plate, the drive lever bearing components, and the drive lever may be disconnected from the main body and replaced with a second cover plate, a second plurality of drive lever bearing components, and a second drive lever, which are all provided together as a set. Generally, the first cover plate may be disconnected from the main body and replaced with a second cover plate, which may serve a different function.