Elastomeric Razor Handle Segmentation for Ergonomic Grip
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handheld devices, such as razors, have rigid handles that are difficult to maneuver in sensitive areas, particularly requiring grip adjustments with two opposing fingers at various angles, and lack a compact design that balances ergonomics and usability.
Innovation Solution
A handle design featuring a docking member connected to a head unit with a gripping portion composed of an elastomeric substrate forming a partial or full ring, allowing for a flexible and adaptive grip with interchangeable substrates for varying user preferences and environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid handle is used, then structural strength is maintained, but ease of operation and adaptability in sensitive areas deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is segmented into a rigid docking member portion and a separate elastomeric gripping portion. The docking member provides structural strength for device support, while the elastomeric gripping portion provides flexibility and adaptability for comfortable handling in sensitive areas. This segmentation allows each portion to optimize its specific function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle combines two different materials with complementary properties: a rigid material (metal or plastic) for the docking member that provides structural strength, and an elastomeric material for the gripping portion that provides flexibility and adaptability. This composite construction resolves the contradiction by allowing the rigid portion to maintain strength while the elastomeric portion enables easy operation in sensitive areas.
2Volume of moving object
If the handle is made compact, then portability is improved, but gripping comfort and control deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric gripping portion is positioned specifically at the distal end of the handle where user contact occurs. This localized application of soft, compliant material provides enhanced gripping comfort and control exactly where needed, while the rest of the handle remains compact. The elastomeric material can be shaped to fit finger contours, providing optimal grip in a minimal volume.
3Ease of operation
If elastomeric gripping material is added to rigid handle, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is divided into distinct functional segments: a rigid docking member and a separate elastomeric gripping portion. This segmentation allows the elastomeric material to be added as a discrete component rather than complicating the entire handle structure. The gripping portion can be manufactured separately and attached to the docking member, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while improving ease of operation.
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 elastomeric substrate provides enhanced grip and control, comfort, and adaptability, allowing for dynamic resistance and ergonomic flexibility, improving handling and usability in different positions and environments.
Implementation Method 1
the gripping portion consists essentially of: a substrate retaining member forming at least a partial ring forming a substrate receiving region; a substantially flat, disc shaped substrate retained within said receiving region... The substrate consists of an elastomeric material
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2e
Figure 3a~4
AI summary
A razor with a relatively short or small handle (200) comprising a substantially flat, disc shaped substrate (500) which preferably includes an elastomeric material, retained in a substrate retaining member (420). The razor handle is compact and disc shaped in nature such that it allows for varying gripping positions by opposing fingers. The razor handle is small and versatile such that it can be easily stored in an enclosable case (800).