Shaving Unit Self-Powered Generator for UV LED Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shaving appliances face challenges in integrating electric components like UV LEDs effectively due to structural hindrances that obstruct the emission of UV rays, necessitating external power sources and complex seals.
Innovation Solution
Generating electric energy within the shaving unit using a movably arranged member, such as a gear wheel with a permanent magnet and electric coil, to power components like LEDs, micro heating/cooling units, and ICs without external connections, leveraging mechanical energy conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electric components like UV LEDs are integrated into the shaving unit, then germ-killing functionality is improved, but structural hindrances obstruct the emission of UV rays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power source function from the external environment by generating electric energy within the shaving unit itself using the movement of cutting members to drive a generator. This eliminates the need for external power sources and complex sealing arrangements, allowing UV LEDs to be integrated directly into the shaving unit structure without being hindered by structural constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The shaving unit becomes self-sufficient by using its own operational movement (cutting member rotation) to generate the electric energy needed for UV LED operation. The mechanical energy from cutting hair is converted to electrical energy through electromagnetic induction, enabling the UV LEDs to function autonomously without external power connections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If electric components are integrated into the shaving unit, then functional versatility is improved, but complex seals and external power connections are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system serves itself by converting the mechanical energy already present in the shaving unit (from the movement of cutting members) into electrical energy. This self-powering mechanism eliminates the need for external power connections and complex sealing arrangements, allowing multiple electric components to be integrated without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The generated electric energy can power multiple different electric components (UV LEDs for germ-killing, heating elements, cooling systems, sensors), providing universal functionality across various operational modes. A single energy generation system supports diverse functional requirements without requiring separate power delivery mechanisms for each component.
3Use of energy by moving object
If movement of cutting members is used to generate electric energy, then energy self-sufficiency is improved, but energy conversion efficiency must be optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The shaving unit captures and utilizes its own operational energy by converting the mechanical kinetic energy of moving cutting members into electrical energy through electromagnetic induction. This self-energy-capture mechanism improves overall energy efficiency by recycling energy that would otherwise be wasted, reducing the need for external power input.
Solution Approach 2:
The continuous rotational movement of cutting members during shaving operations provides periodic mechanical energy input to the generator. This periodic action ensures consistent electrical energy generation throughout the shaving process, maintaining adequate power supply for electric components while optimizing the conversion of mechanical to electrical energy.
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 the integration of various electric components within the shaving unit without external power sources or complex seals, enhancing germ-killing functionality and operational autonomy.
Implementation Method 1
a gear wheel with a permanent magnet and electric coil
Data Source
AI summary
A domestic appliance includes a functional action unit which has at least one movably arranged member, and a generator configured to generate electric energy at the location of the functional action unit. The generator is associated with the movably arranged member, and employs movement of this member in a process of generating electric energy. The generator includes a permanent magnet and an electric coil, where the magnet may be mounted on the movably arranged member. By having the generator at a location inside the functional action unit, it is possible to have one or more electric components at a location inside this unit without the need for external electric connections.