Rotatable Hair Implement with Bearing for Tool Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Hair styling tools often require multiple devices, leading to cluttered workspaces and misplacement, especially in home and professional settings, where users lack the dexterity to efficiently switch between tools without putting one down.

Innovation Solution

A hair styling apparatus with a spine section and handle section connected by a rotational bearing, allowing users to maintain control and switch between functions without releasing the device, incorporating a finger support and ring insert for ergonomic use.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple hair styling devices are used to accomplish different styling tasks, then the versatility and functionality are improved, but the workspace becomes cluttered and devices are more likely to be misplaced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestyling functionalityVSAvoidworkspace organization
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple hair styling functions into a single integrated device. The handle section includes multiple sections (first section, second section, third section) that can be selectively engaged to provide different styling functions such as combing, brushing, and curling, eliminating the need for multiple separate devices and reducing workspace clutter

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The hair styling device is designed as a universal tool that can perform multiple styling tasks through its multi-functional sections. The same handle can accommodate different attachments and configurations to achieve various styling objectives, making one device replace several specialized tools

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Manufacturing precision

If a professional stylist holds hair in one hand and uses an implement in the other hand, then the styling precision is improved, but the stylist cannot easily switch between multiple implements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestyling precisionVSAvoidimplement switching
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple styling functions into a single handheld device that can be operated with one hand. The handle section with multiple functional sections allows the stylist to switch between different styling tasks without releasing the device or using the other hand, maintaining precision while enabling easy function switching

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The device incorporates movable and adjustable components that allow dynamic switching between different functional sections. The handle can be configured and reconfigured during use to adapt to different styling needs, providing both precision and operational flexibility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If users pick up and put down multiple devices to continue styling tasks, then the versatility is maintained, but the time required for styling increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestyling capabilityVSAvoidstyling time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent consolidates multiple styling functions into a single device that remains in the user's hand throughout the styling process. By integrating combing, brushing, and curling capabilities into one handle section system, the user can transition between different styling tasks without picking up or putting down devices, significantly reducing time loss

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The device enables continuous styling action by allowing the user to maintain grip on the same tool while switching between different functional sections. This eliminates interruptions and downtime associated with picking up and putting down multiple separate devices, keeping the styling process flowing continuously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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

Enables users to perform multiple hair styling tasks efficiently and quickly, reducing clutter and misplacement by allowing manipulation of additional tools without putting down the primary device.

Implementation Method 1

a handle section containing a rotational bearing... the spine section being capable of rotating about an axis parallel to the spine central axis

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRotational bearing: Ball Bearing

Data Source

PatentUS9044076B2Rotatable hair implement
Publication Date: 2015.06.02 J&J TEMPLE INNOVATIONS LLC
  • US9044076B2 patent drawing
  • US9044076B2 patent drawing
  • US9044076B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A hair implement, such as a comb, brush, or pick, is disclosed that includes a handle section containing a ring insert within an annular opening in the handle section. When the hair implement is not in use, it may be held on a user's finger and rotate out of the way without the need for the user to disengage his or her finger from the hair implement, such as when using other hair implements.