Razor Cartridge Comb Guard Dynamics

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing shaving implements with detachable combs for hair trimming face inefficiency when the comb is misplaced, as the permanently fixed guard obstructs longer hairs, reducing the device's utility as a hair trimmer.

Innovation Solution

A razor cartridge with a permanently attached trimming comb that can be pivoted between an operable trimming position and a non-operable shaving position, retracting the guard to allow unobstructed passage of longer hairs during trimming.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a detachable comb is attached to the razor cartridge, then the device gains additional utility for trimming hair, but the permanently fixed guard obstructs the passage of longer hairs between the teeth of the comb, reducing trimming efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The guard is designed to be movable rather than fixed, capable of transitioning between a forward position (for shaving) and a retracted position (for trimming). This dynamic configuration allows the guard to clear the path between the comb teeth and the cutting edge when trimming longer hairs, eliminating the obstruction problem while maintaining shaving protection when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If the guard is permanently fixed in the shaving position, then the device provides reliable protection during shaving, but it interferes with the passage of longer hairs during trimming operations

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The guard is made movable between two stable positions: forward for shaving protection and retracted for trimming clearance. This dynamic design maintains reliability during shaving while enabling ease of operation during trimming by clearing the path for longer hairs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The guard serves dual functions: protecting the skin during shaving when in the forward position, and clearing the path for longer hairs during trimming when retracted. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between providing reliable protection and enabling easy passage of longer hairs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the comb is detachable, then the device can be configured for different functions, but if the comb is mislaid, its utility as a hair trimmer is diminished

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The comb is permanently attached to the razor cartridge housing, merging the trimming function permanently into the device structure. This eliminates the risk of the comb being mislaid while maintaining the ability to configure the device for different functions through the movable guard and comb positioning mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS8191265B2Razor cartridge with comb

Publication Date: 2012.06.05

AI summary

A multi-function razor cartridge that can be used for hair trimming and normal shaving has a housing including a retractable guard and at least one razor blade having a cutting edge. The razor cartridge also has a comb mounted to the housing that is movable by a user between a non-operable position and an operable position. When the comb is in the non-operable position the razor cartridge can be used for a normal shaving operation. As the comb is moved to the operable position for hair trimming, the guard is retracted so that it will not interfere with the passage of longer hairs between the teeth of the comb.