Monolithic Safety Razor Handle With Integral Cartridge Pivoting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern safety razors with reusable handles require multiple component parts made of different materials, which complicates recyclability and manufacturing, and lack a pivotal support mechanism for razor cartridges.
Innovation Solution
A monolithic handle with a single material construction that pivotally supports a razor cartridge, featuring integral arms, covers, and a biasing member to guide and bias the cartridge into a neutral position, using snap fits and torsion arms for secure connection and disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple component parts made of different materials are used in the handle assembly, then the handle can provide complex functions including cartridge connection and release mechanisms, but the recyclability and manufacturing simplicity are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate components (handle body, cartridge connection mechanism, release button, and cartridge holder) into a single monolithic handle structure. The release button is integrally formed as part of the handle body, and the cartridge connection features are built-in during the single-shot injection molding process, eliminating the need for separate parts and assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The monolithic handle structure performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, houses the cartridge connection mechanism, incorporates the release button actuator, and guides cartridge installation and removal. This multi-functional integration is achieved through strategic design of internal cavities and features within the single molded piece.
2Ease of manufacture
If a monolithic handle structure is used, then manufacturing complexity is reduced and recyclability is improved, but the ability to provide complex cartridge connection and release mechanisms is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The monolithic handle is designed with internal segmentation through molded-in cavities and features that create distinct functional zones. The release button forms a separate actuator chamber, the cartridge holder creates a defined engagement space, and the connection features are localized in specific regions, allowing complex functionality within a unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge connection mechanism is nested within the monolithic handle structure. The cartridge holder is formed as a cavity inside the handle body, and the release button mechanism is integrated into the same structure, creating a nested arrangement where multiple functional elements coexist within the single molded piece.
3Loss of substance
If the handle is designed as a single component part, then the number of parts is reduced for environmental benefits, but the structural complexity required for pivotal support and cartridge retention is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cartridge holder, release mechanism, and handle body into a single integrated structure. The cartridge holder is not a separate component but a molded cavity within the handle, and the release button is an integral feature rather than a separate part, thereby reducing the total number of components while maintaining all necessary functions.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple materials are used in the handle assembly, then different functional requirements can be met, but the environmental impact and recyclability are negatively affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs homogeneity by constructing the entire handle assembly from a single material through single-shot injection molding. This eliminates material heterogeneity, making the handle fully recyclable as a single material stream while still meeting diverse functional requirements through strategic material selection and internal structural design.
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 monolithic handle provides a secure, recyclable, and efficient means to connect and disconnect razor cartridges, emulating a multi-part assembly while reducing manufacturing complexity and environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member integrally formed with one of the arms. The biasing member has a distal end adapted to contact the razor cartridge to impart a force on the cartridge to create a restoring torque to return the cartridge to a neutral position relative to the handle
Implementation Method 2
The beam terminates in a snap fit protrusion to snap-fittingly engage an offset rib that extends inwardly into the bounded region from the other of the arms
Data Source
AI summary
A handle for a safety razor having a razor cartridge connected to the handle has a first and second arm connected at one end in a general U or V shape. Each arm terminates in pivotal support structure for the razor cartridge. A top cover and a bottom cover both extend inwardly of a head end region of a respective one of the arms. The cover, in combination with the head end regions at least partially enclose structures that both interconnect the head end regions to define a primed-condition predetermined dimension (W) across the pivotal support structures, and permit the head end regions to be guidedly flexed together upon application of finger pressure to the head end regions. A biasing member is integrally formed with one of the arms and a terminal lead-in portion of the biasing member is received in an aperture of the other arm.