Shaving Razor Blade Carrier Tab Flexing for Impact Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a simpler, more robust, and intuitive connection mechanism between shaving razor handles and cartridges, especially with heavier metal handles that are prone to mechanical failure when dropped.
Innovation Solution
A blade carrier assembly with a tab that flexes between two positions to securely and detachably attach the cartridge to the handle, featuring a crest between angled surfaces for engagement with the handle, and a recessed surface with guide surfaces for secure mounting, allowing for easy loading and removal of cartridges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the handle weight is increased to provide improved control and feel during shaving, then the user experience is improved, but the likelihood of attachment mechanism breaking when the handle is dropped increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic system where the tab can flex and deform elastically upon impact, allowing the heavier handle to be retained while protecting the attachment mechanism from breaking
Solution Approach 2:
The tab's geometric parameters (thickness, length, cross-section) are optimized to provide sufficient rigidity for normal shaving operations while maintaining enough elasticity to absorb impact forces from drops, changing the mechanical properties from purely rigid to viscoelastic
2Strength
If the attachment forces are increased to provide robust retention during shaving, then the retention strength is improved, but the ease of cartridge replacement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism uses dynamic elasticity where the tab flexes during normal shaving to maintain strong retention forces, but can be easily deflected by user-applied force during removal, providing both strong attachment and easy release
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment function is segmented into two modes: passive retention during shaving where elastic forces maintain strong attachment, and active release where user force overcomes the elastic retention to enable easy cartridge replacement
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 solution provides a robust and reliable attachment mechanism that absorbs impact and facilitates easy cartridge replacement, enhancing the durability and usability of shaving razor systems, particularly with premium metal handles.
Implementation Method 1
The tab flexes between a first position and a second position to secure and detach the shaving razor cartridge from the handle
Implementation Method 2
an increase in the handle weight increases the likelihood the attachment mechanism breaks if the handle is dropped
Data Source
AI summary
A blade carrier assembly with a blade carrier having a blade platform at a first end. A tab extends from the blade platform to a second end. A blade is mounted to the blade platform. The blade a cutting edge. The tab has a crest configured to engage a handle. The crest is positioned between a pair of angled surfaces of the tab.