Pivotable Shaving Head With Multi-Angle Locking Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electric shavers lack the ability to securely fix the shaving head at various angles, which can lead to suboptimal handling and comfort during shaving, especially in complex areas like under the nose.

Innovation Solution

The electric shaver incorporates a pivotably connected shaving head with locking mechanisms using notches and an engaging element connected to a switch element, allowing the shaving head to be locked at multiple predetermined angles, and includes a slider with a mechanical actuating element to avoid interference with additional tools like a long-hair trimmer.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the shaving head is freely pivotable connected to the housing, then the shaving head is able to adapt perfectly to the contour of the skin, but the shaving head cannot be fixed at predetermined angles when needed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptation to skin contourVSAvoidfixing capability at predetermined angles
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The shaving head employs a dynamic locking mechanism that allows it to transition between freely pivotable state for adapting to skin contours and locked state at predetermined angles for stable handling. The spring element enables the head to move freely when not locked, then snaps into predetermined angular positions when the locking element engages the notches.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the angular parameter of the shaving head relative to the housing by providing multiple discrete angular positions through notches at predetermined angles (e.g., 0°, 45°, 90°). The locking mechanism selectively engages these notches to fix the head at specific angular parameters when needed, while allowing continuous angular adjustment when unlocked.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If clicking means are provided to lock the head at predetermined rocked angles, then the shaving head can be fixed at predetermined angles, but the shaving head is never completely freely pivotable relative to the handle

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing capability at predetermined anglesVSAvoidfree pivoting capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is designed to be dynamically engageable and disengageable. When disengaged, the shaving head enjoys complete free pivoting capability for perfect skin contour adaptation. When engaged, it locks at predetermined angles. The spring element continuously biases the head toward free movement, and the user can easily switch between locked and unlocked states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If additional tools like a slider are integrated in the electric shaver, then the functionality is enhanced, but interference with the rockable shaving head may occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadditional tool functionalityVSAvoidmechanical interference and coordination
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The shaver is segmented into functionally independent modules: the rockable shaving head module and the additional tool module (e.g., slider with trimmer). Each module can operate independently without mechanical interference. The locking mechanism ensures the head remains stable when additional tools are engaged, while the free-pivoting mode allows the head to adapt to skin contours when additional tools are not in use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 design enhances handling and shaving comfort by enabling secure angle locking and balanced weight distribution, allowing for efficient use of additional tools without mechanical complexity, ensuring optimal performance in various shaving situations.

Implementation Method 1

The engaging element preferably comprises a spring element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring element: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS9457485B2Electric shaver comprising a pivotable shaving head
Publication Date: 2016.10.04 BRAUN GMBH
  • US9457485B2 patent drawing
  • US9457485B2 patent drawing
  • US9457485B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to an electric shaver having a housing pivotably connected to a shaving head, where the shaving head can be locked at several predetermined positions.