WO2009076415A2

WO2009076415A2 - Bluetooth stroke counter

Info

Publication number: WO2009076415A2
Application number: PCT/US2008/086187
Authority: WO
Inventors: Chris Kohler
Original assignee: Eveready Battery Company, Inc.
Priority date: 2007-12-10
Filing date: 2008-12-10
Publication date: 2009-06-18
Also published as: WO2009076415A3

Abstract

The present invention involves a shaving system comprising a wet-shave razor (4) and a shaving movement system (62). The present invention encompasses the method of assessing movement of a wet-shave razor and compiling this movement into significant information to be outputted to a user. The wet-shave razor comprises at least part of a handle (16) and at least one razor cartridge (6). The at least part of a handle of the wet-shave razor has at least one razor cartridge coupled to it, where the razor cartridge has at least one blade with a sharpened edge for cutting hair. The shaving movement system comprises at least one sensor (20), a processor (22), at least one memory storage device (23), a Bluetooth module (36), an algorithm, at least one power source (34), and a Bluetooth enabled computer (38).

Description

BLUETOOTH STROKE COUNTER

BACKGROUND

Field of the Invention The present invention is generally directed to shaving implements, specifically wet-shave razors, wherein usage of the razor cartridge is monitored and such information is conveyed to the user.

Background of the Invention There exist many criteria which define the quality of shaving utensils. Generally, the criteria manufacturers design and test for are based on particular traits consumers' desire in the specific product. One such trait is that of a close shave, balanced with rinsability, safety and comfortableness. Shaving comfort is of particular interest. A razor is likely to be preferred for how it "feels" shaving the hirsute surface. Comfort can be attributed by how smoothly it cuts hair, how closely it cuts hair, and the manner it in which it is done. Manufacturers have incorporated guard portions to stretch skin prior to entering razor blades, with lubricious conditioning elements before and/or after the razor blades in order to heighten shaving comfort. Razors come with pivotable razor cartridges with flexing blades. Manufacturers have adjusted the blade deck, modifying the number of blades, blade spans and blade exposures. Likewise, blade spacing to accommodate rinsability has also been augmented and further developed in order to remove skin particulate enabling a closer shave and enhancing comfort. Further yet, vibrating razors have also been produced to accommodate shaving comfort. Still, in order to determine how adequate these elements are, comfort must somehow be calculated.

Comfort can be a difficult factor to quantify. One such way of doing so is through counting shaving strokes. The fewer the number of shaving strokes, the less skin will be irritated by the passing of the blade(s). Accordingly, the number of strokes can be correlated to the quality of the shaving instrument. To count strokes, a counter needs to be attached to each individual razor assembly being tested, such that it can measure and account for a displacement of the razor assembly during the course of a stroke. This can be costly, especially if multiple tests on multiple shaving systems are required. It can also be bulky, as all the components mounted externally or internally to the handle of the razor can leave an unduly large handle, compromising shaving comfort in order to account for it. Furthermore, it would be useful to have a system that could be utilized with any razor product, as opposed to being specifically integrated into one shaving system. Accordingly, it is advantageous to have a system that is external to the razor itself, such that it can be implemented with other razors of the same or of varying type. Therefore, it is the object of the present invention to overcome the aforementioned insufficiencies.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to the present invention, a shaving system comprises a wet-shave razor and a shaving movement system. The present invention encompasses the method of assessing movement of a wet-shave razor and compiling this movement into significant information to be outputted to a user. The wet-shave razor comprises at least part of a handle and at least one razor cartridge. The at least part of a handle of the wet-shave razor has at least one razor cartridge coupled to it, where the razor cartridge has at least one blade with a sharpened edge for cutting hair. The shaving movement system comprises at least one sensor, a processor, at least one memory storage device, a Bluetooth module, an algorithm, at least one power source, and a Bluetooth enabled computer.

The at least one sensor detects movement of the wet-shave razor and relays this movement to a processor. The at least one sensor detects movement through a variety of means and methods. Various types of sensors employing different means of ascertaining, interpreting and communicating/relaying movement to a processor exist and are capable of accomplishing said objectives. The processor is in direct electrical communication with the at least one sensor. The processor utilizes an algorithm to interpret the inputted data from the at least one sensor. The processor identifies and selectively filters movement, removing extraneous movement and sorting input data into categories, storing the input data into at least one memory storage device. The processor filters in order to group together useful information gathered from the at least one sensor. It may select and create categories for many different types of inputted data, or may focus on a particular type of data. The at least one memory storage device holds the data until the processor permits the data to be erased. The permission may be granted solely through at least one algorithm, or it may be user-defined, where the user manually resets the memory. Once the input data have been collected, filtered, and sorted, information and/or data collected from these data is relayed via a Bluetooth module to a Bluetooth compatible computer, for visual assessment and utilization by the user. Here, the data can be once more stored, and notably the Bluetooth enabled computer typically provides more memory and programs to further organize and manipulate the data. The information displayed is related to the data gathered, and may include the number of strokes. At least one power source provides the required power to operate the at least one sensor, processor, Bluetooth module, and at least one memory storage device. The at least one power source may be external or internal. Where the at least one power source is external, it may take its power from an electrical outlet. The at least one power source may be chargeable and thus detachable from the external power source upon use. Where the at least one power source is internal, it may comprise a battery or other type of energy cell. The at least one power source may contain capacitors to store energy and resistors to limit and control current dispersion.

The shaving system may take various forms, where different components are combined in a functional unit, or are separate. A functional unit comprises at least the at least one sensor, a processor, a Bluetooth module, at least one algorithm, and at least one power source. Optionally, a functional unit may also comprise at least one memory storage device. A functional unit never consists of the Bluetooth enabled computer, but rather works symbiotically with a Bluetooth enabled computer, communicating with the Bluetooth enabled computer via the Bluetooth module. Specific embodiments of the present invention will be subsequently discussed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an angled view of one embodiment of a shaving system where the at least one memory storage device is separate from both the functional unit and computer; FIG. 2 A is an angled view of one embodiment of a shaving system;

FIG. 2B is a head on view of one embodiment of a shaving system;

FIG. 3 A is an angled view of one embodiment of a shaving system with an enhanced grip;

FIG. 3B is a head-on view of one embodiment of a shaving system with an enhanced grip;

FIG. 4A is a top view of a schematic of one embodiment of a functional unit; FIG. 4B is an angled view of one embodiment of a functional unit inside a can;

FIG. 4C is a front view of one embodiment of a functional unit inside a can; FIG. 5 is a side view of one embodiment of a shaving system using a sleeve, where the functional unit is external to the sleeve;

FIG. 6 is a side view of one embodiment of a shaving system using a sleeve, where the functional unit is external to the sleeve; FIG. 7A is a top, open view of a detail of one embodiment of a sleeve, where the functional unit is between an inner layer and an outer layer of the sleeve.

FIG. 7B is a top, closed view of a detail of one embodiment of a sleeve, where the functional unit is between an inner layer and an outer layer of the sleeve;

FIG 8A is a side view of a detail of one embodiment of a sleeve, where the functional unit is between an inner layer and an outer layer of the sleeve;

FIG. 8B is a front view of a detail of one embodiment of a sleeve, where the functional unit is between an inner layer and an outer layer of the sleeve;

FIG. 9 is one embodiment of an algorithm; and

FIG. 10 is one embodiment of an algorithm.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention involves wet shaving systems and methods of their use. As shown in FIG. 1, a shaving system comprises a wet-shave razor (4), which includes at least part of a handle (16) and at least one razor cartridge (6), and a shaving movement system (62), which includes at least one sensor (20), at least one memory storage device (23), a processor (22) a

Bluetooth module (36), at least one algorithm as shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 9 and 10, at least one power source (34) and a Bluetooth enabled computer. The wet-shave razor (4) has at least one razor cartridge (6) coupled to the handle (16). The connection may be pivotable, or rotatable, or rigid. The at least one razor cartridge (6) may be removable and replaceable as found in system razors, or it may be one continuous piece, as found in disposable razors. The at least one razor cartridge (6) contains at least one razor blade with a sharpened blade edge for cutting hair. The at least one razor cartridge (6) may contain a guard portion to stretch and prepare skin entering the at least one razor blade. The guard is commonly a polymeric, rubber,

TPE or metallic material, or a combination thereof. The at least one razor cartridge (6) may contain conditioning agents in a variety of forms or substances to prepare the hirsute surface prior to shaving and/or thereafter. Conditioning agents may be a liquid, oil, foam, soap or polymeric material.

The at least one sensor (20) detects movement of the wet-shave razor (4). Alternatively, the at least one sensor (20) may detect forces applied to the wet-shave razor (4) or applied by the wet-shave razor (4) to the hirsute surface. The at least one sensor (20) may detect forces within the wet-shave razor (4). Forces that may be monitored include pressure. The at least one sensor (20) is external to the wet-shave razor (4), such that it can accurately detect movement of the wet-shave razor (4). The at least one sensor (20) may be an accelerometer, specifically a single axis, biaxial, or a triaxial accelerometer, or may consist of multiple of each type or combinations thereof.

The at least one sensor (20) monitors motion or force along at least one axis. This axis may be the vertical axis. Where a multi-axis accelerometer is being used, an algorithm, as in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, may be written to only read a specific axis at specific times, for specific purposes, where pertinent information relates only to a specific axis. For example, a processor (22) may only record vertical axis data generally, but may be triggered to record data from the other two axes should significant displacement occur in either of those axes. Likewise, a processor may only read horizontal axis data, or any axis depending on the number of axes defined.

In another embodiment, one might have three single axis accelerometers orientated in three different ways, or one might have several triaxial accelerometers to more accurately account for movement and/or reduce plausible error through redundancy. The at least one sensor (20) may alternatively be a surface acoustic wave sensor, a laser accelerometer, an optical accelerometer, a magnetic accelerometer, a load cell, a strain gauge or a half-effect sensor, or any other sensor (20) known by one skilled in the art that provides a similar ability to detect movement of an object or forces applied to or applied by an object.

The processor (22) utilizes at least one algorithm to accept incoming data offered by the at least one sensor (20), process it, and store pertinent information in the at least one memory storage device (23). Ultimately, the at least one algorithm outputs specific information to a computer that visually displays information relating to the movement interpreted by the at least one sensor (20). As seen in either embodiment shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the at least one algorithm uses at least one loop (90), and sequentially accepts input data (92) from the at least one sensor (20). Note that the steps of the at least one algorithm as shown in the embodiments in FIGS. 9 and 10 that are contained in dashed boxes are steps that are changed between FIGS. 9 and 10. Although other steps have not been modified to show other embodiments in FIGS. 9 and 10 or in addition to FIGS. 9 and 10, it is understood by one of skill in the art that any step can be modified to provide the appropriate at least one algorithm to identify and manage the desired input data (92) from the at least one sensor (20). The at least one algorithm pauses (91) acceptance of input data (92) in order to provide an appropriate length of time for significant movement to occur. This length of time varies dependant on what type of movement is specifically sought. Significant movement is force, displacement, or any other measurable quantity, which is defined by the algorithm to enable accumulation of valuable data. If the significant movement is defined too low, or the length of time is too long, excessive data may be accumulated, and vice-versa. The at least one algorithm compares the difference (93) of consecutively accepted input data (92) and compares this difference to a threshold value (94). The threshold value (94) is an amplitude that defines a specific movement sought to be measured. If the threshold value (94) is larger than the difference of the consecutive sets of input data (92), then the threshold value (94) has not been met, and the at least one algorithm will continue to find the difference (93) of consecutive sets of input data (92) until the threshold value (94) is less than or equal to the difference (93) of two consecutive sets of input data (92). When the threshold value (94) is met, the value of the difference (93) is stored in the memory storage device (23), and the at least one algorithm recycles, iterating the above-described process.

The at least one algorithm may check particular axes in order to account for undesired or extraneous data (96) that may exceed the threshold value (94) and thus be inappropriately counted. Extraneous data (96) may include motion, pressure or force. For example, a user will frequently rinse the razor while shaving to remove any build-up of skin particulate and hair. To rinse, one might oscillate the razor back and forth laterally under a stream of water, or possibly submersed in water. Consequently, as shown in FIG. 10, it is desirable to require the at least one algorithm to check for rinsing (98). The at least one algorithm may check the lateral direction, potentially along the x-axis (if so defined) for motion that exceeds the threshold value (94), but is nonetheless extraneous motion (96). The at least one algorithm should measure the absolute value of the distance traveled by the at least one sensor (20). The absolute value of the displacement should be considered to remove ambiguity that may result from where the origin of the coordinate system is defined. Accordingly, if rinsing causes displacement in one or more quadrants, the at least one algorithm will consider the entirety of the displacement, and not merely the positive displacement from the origin. If one defines the coordinate system such that displacement will only occur in one quadrant, the absolute value will not need to be considered. This is understood by one of skill in the art to be within the scope of the present invention.

The at least one algorithm may ultimately self-terminate, where it has been programmed to run for a certain time, number of movements, specific pressure or force, or any other quality pertinent to razor assessment that can be quantified by a sensor (20). The at least one algorithm may require the user to start and stop the system. In the latter system, a button or switch (72) must be depressed, toggled or pushed in order to signal to the at least one algorithm to begin or end. The user may input this directly on the shaving movement system (62), or through the computer (38). As the at least one algorithm cycles, it may continuously output information to a Bluetooth enabled computer (38) to display information related to the movement input data (92) it accepts, updating the information as it receives new information. Alternatively, the at least one algorithm might not output information to an output device (24) to display information until all data has been accumulated.

In one embodiment of a shaving movement system (62), the shaving movement system (62) contains a triaxial accelerometer (20), a processor (22), and a memory storage device (23). The processor (22) is used to sample the input data (92) from the triaxial accelerometer (20). This is accomplished by coupling the three analog outputs from the accelerometer to the three analog-to-digital (A/D) inputs of the processor (22). The algorithm sequentially reads the value of each accelerometer axis and compares it to the previously stored value. Stroke detection is based on a change in amplitude of the input data. An increase in acceleration of sufficient amplitude, on any axis, will increment to the computer (28) for visual display. As shown in the embodiment in FIG. 9, wrist movements during rinsing are ignored by checking the absolute value on the lateral (or x- axis as defined in this embodiment). When the wrist is in a downward position, strokes are disregarded. The algorithm continues to accept input data (92), interpret the data, store the data in the at least one memory storage device (23) and increment strokes to the Bluetooth enabled computer (28) until the user depresses the reset button (32) on to the shaving movement system (62). The processor (22) and at least one memory storage device (23) may be one device, such as a microchip microcontroller. Alternatively, the processor (22) and at least one memory storage device (23) may be separate components, as is common within a computer (38). Typically, as shown in one embodiment in FIG. 4A, the processor (22) and at least one memory storage device (23) will be mounted and soldered to a pc board (26) and communicate directly through the pc board (26). A Bluetooth module (36) relays data to a Bluetooth enabled computer (38). The Bluetooth enabled computer (38) may provide additional storage for the data. The Bluetooth enabled computer (38) may provide other program(s) to analyze, sort and filter the data. The Bluetooth enabled computer (38) will output information regarding the data to the user.

The at least one power source (34) provides power to the at least one sensor (20), processor (22), at least one memory storage device (23), and Bluetooth module (36). One power source (34) may provide power to all three of these components, or individual power sources (34) may source each component individually. Where the shaving movement system (62) also consists of the at least one sensor (20), one power source (34) may be sufficient, or multiple power sources (34) may be employed for redundancy or to provide a specific orientation, shape or size of the shaving movement system (62). The power source (34) may be internal or external to the shaving movement system (62). An internal power source (34) may be a battery, and may be located within the shaving movement system (62). Specifically, it may be inside the shaving movement system (62) where the system resides in a handle that will attach at the neck (8) of the modified wet-shave razor (4). Where the shaving movement system (62) surrounds the wet- shave razor (4) handle (16), the power source (34) may still be internal, as it may be within the material used to encompass the wet-shave razor (4) handle (16), as shown in the embodiments in FIGS. 5 and 6. An external power source (34) may continually provide power from an electrical outlet via an electrical cord. Alternatively, an external power source (34) may be rechargeable, such that a plug is used, allowing one to detach the power cord for less restricted range of motion. An external power source (34) may be mounted exterior to the handle, or attached to the exterior of the shaving movement system (62). Regardless of whether the at least one power source (34) is internal or external, the at least one power source (34) may be detachable or removable, and may be rechargeable, or in any other form known to one skilled in the art. The present invention may have an adhesive backing (82) that helps secure the shaving movement system (62) to the wet-shave razor (4) handle (16). This adhesive backing (82) may only exist at the very top of the shaving movement system (62) where it would rest near the neck (8) of the wet-shave razor (4). Alternatively, the adhesive backing (82) may be used to secure components of the shaving movement system (62). One embodiment utilizing an adhesive backing can be seen in FIGS. 7A and 7B. The adhesive backing (82) may be disposable, such that a new backing can be applied for every test. The adhesive backing (82) may also be permanent, in that it is never replaced, but can be reused and maintains its tackiness. U.S. Patent 6,316,073 to Hiscock is hereby incorporated in its entirety. The handle (16) of the wet-shave razor (4) may be whole, as shown in the embodiments in FIGS. 5 an 6, or in part, as shown in FIGS. 2A-3B. In some embodiments, the handle (16) of the wet-shave razor (4) may be modified or removed up to the neck (8) of the handle (16). The removal or modification enables the shaving movement system (62) to be attached in lieu of the handle (16), in order to reduce the size of the components held by the user. The shaving movement system (62) may employ various means of attachment. These means of attachment may depend on how much of the at least part of a handle (16) is available or required. Where the at least part of a handle (16) is removed anywhere from the rear end (9) to the neck (8), a mechanical attachment may be appropriate. A mechanical attachment may include, but is not limited to, any means of adjustably fastening, such as clasps, screws, pins, clips, or rivets. Where at least part of a handle (16) has been removed, a handle containing the at least one sensor (20), processor (22), at least one memory storage device (23), Bluetooth module (36), at least one power supply (34), may be incorporated thereof by the above-mentioned attachment means. The replacement handle, comprising the shaving movement system (62) components, may be of a plastic, metal, wood, rubber, elastomer, any other material known by one of skill in the art, or any combination thereof. The shaving movement system (62) may consist of one or more shells (12) in one or more pieces to encase the above-mentioned components. One or more of these shells may provide an enhanced grip (18). An enhanced grip (18) may be more comfortable, ergonomic and/or aesthetic. The shaving movement system (62) may employ one or more gaskets to prevent moisture from reaching the above-mentioned components, or other means to prevent moisture. Alternatively, where the shaving movement system (62) overlays the at least part of the handle (16), the shaving movement system (62) may be at least partially a sleeve (66). The sleeve (66) may be elastomeric, a rubber, or a polymeric composition allowing for dynamic adjustability. Dynamic adjustability refers to the sleeve's (66) ability to expand or contract or otherwise adapt in size in order to accommodate the size of the at least part of a handle (16) of the wet-shave razor (4). The sleeve (66) may provide dynamic adjustment while containing materials that don't innately adapt. For instance, the sleeve (66) may comprise TPE, while having a reinforced metallic lip (10). In another embodiment, the sleeve (66) may comprise rubber and have a reinforced polypropylene rear end (9), enabling a rigid chargeable connection for the power source (34). Furthermore, the sleeve (66) may also utilize a mechanical attachment to provide an even more secure attachment and placement of the sleeve (66) on the at least part of a handle (16) of the wet-shave razor (4).

The sleeve (66) may consist of layers in order to contain components of the shaving movement system (62) (the at least one sensor (20), processor (22), at least one memory storage device (23), Bluetooth module (36), at least one power supply (34)). This can be seen in the embodiments in FIGS. 7A-8B. In one embodiment, an inner layer (84) and outer layer (86) enclose the components. The layers may be molded together. The layers may be sealed in a permanent fashion, or enable the user to remove components. The layers may use an adhesive backing (82) to permanently or temporarily seal the components. In another embodiment, the sleeve (66) may be a single layer, with the at least one sensor (20), processor (22), at least one memory storage device (23), Bluetooth module (36), at least one power supply (34) attached to it externally. These components may be encased in a protective can (88). The can may be underneath the sleeve (66), such that it is between the at least part of a handle (16) and the sleeve (66). Alternatively, the can (88) may be external to the sleeve (66), such that it is between the user's hand and the sleeve (66). In either embodiment, the can (88) may be oriented at the rear end (9) of the sleeve (9), or anywhere.

The sleeve (66) may be made to provide an enhanced grip. It may be made of a rubber, elastomer, polymer or gel, or any other material known to one of skill in the art. The material may be visco-elastic foam, forming exactly to the user's grip. The present invention may be in a variety of embodiments, where different components are combined in a functional unit (68), or are separate. A functional unit (68) comprises at least the at least one sensor (20), a processor (22), a Bluetooth module (36), at least one algorithm, and at least one power source (34). Optionally, a functional unit (68) may also comprise at least one memory storage device (23). A functional unit (68) never consists of the Bluetooth enabled computer (38), but rather works symbiotically with a Bluetooth enabled computer (38), communicating with the Bluetooth enabled computer (38) via the Bluetooth module (36). Furthermore, various components required to provide the desired function may be in different combinations depending on how each component interacts and what each component specifically is. The following embodiments are examples of such and one skilled in the art would understand that the specified embodiments are in no way representative of all embodiments encompassed by the present invention.

One embodiment of the present invention consists of a wet-shave razor (4) with the handle (16) modified such that it is removed below the neck (8). The neck (8) has two bored holes (13) on the superior (58) and inferior surfaces (60) to accept screws (14) from the shaving movement system (62). The shaving movement system (62) is contained in a handle in lieu of the removed wet-shave razor (4) handle (16). The shaving movement system (62) is enclosed in one polypropylene shell (12). A gasket is employed to prevent moisture from entering. The shell (12) has a lip (10) with a bored hole (13) such that a screw (14) may be employed to fasten the shaving movement system (62) to the neck (8) of the wet-shave razor (4). The lip (10) has a large enough diameter to be adaptable to many wet-shave razors (4). The lip (10) is reinforced with aluminum to prevent degradation of the bored hole (11). The shaving movement system (62) contains a sensor (20), a processor (22), a memory storage device (23), a Mistumi Bluetooth module (36), and a power source (34). These components are removable from the shell (12), and in this embodiment, components are removed from the head portion (15) of the shell (12). The processor (22) and memory storage device (23) is a Microchip 12C672 microcontroller. The sensor (20) is a Freescale MMA 7260 triaxial accelerometer. The power source (34) consists of two double-A Energizer batteries. The algorithm reads input data (92) from all three axes of the triaxial accelerometer (20), comparing subsequent data sets to determine if a threshold (94) displacement has been reached. The algorithm checks for rinsing (98) along the lateral axis (or x-axis as defined in this embodiment). If the difference in subsequent data sets is greater than the threshold (94), and survives the check for rinsing (98), it is counted (99) as a stroke. The shaving movement system (62) outputs via a Bluetooth module (36) to a Bluetooth enabled computer (38). The Bluetooth enabled computer (38) provides additional memory (23) and runs at least one computer program to further compile and visually display information to the user. The Bluetooth enabled computer (38) stores data from the shaving movement system (62).

Another embodiment of the present invention consists of a wet-shave razor (4) with an in-tact handle (16). The shaving movement system (62) is contained in a TPE elastomeric material that forms an adjustable sleeve (66). The sleeve contains a sensor, a processor, a Bluetooth module, and a power source. The sleeve (66) comprises an inner layer (84) and an outer layer (86), with the components in-between the layers. The layers use an adhesive backing (82) in order to close around and contain the components. The adhesive backing (82) is permanent, and allows for the components to be removed and repositioned. The shaving movement system (62) contains an Omega DLClOl-IO dynamic load cell (20), a Microchip 12C672 microcontroller (22, 23), a Mistumi Bluetooth module (36) and a power source (34). The power source (34) stores electrical power through a chargeable plug. The algorithm reads input data (92) from the load cell (20), comparing subsequent data sets to determine if a threshold (94) has been reached. An algorithm is utilized by the shaving movement system (62) as shown in the embodiment in FIG. 9.

Another embodiment of the present invention consists of a wet-shave razor (4) with an in-tact handle (16). The shaving movement system (62) is contained in a TPE elastomeric material that forms an adjustable sleeve (66). A can (88) contains a sensor, a processor, a Bluetooth module, and a power source. The can (88) is underneath the sleeve (66), but exterior to the handle (16) of the wet-shave razor (4). The shaving movement system (62) contains two Freescale MMA 7260 triaxial accelerometer (20), a Microchip 12C672 microcontroller (22, 23), a Mistumi Bluetooth module (36) and a power source (34). The power source (34) is electrically powered through a cord. The algorithm reads input data (92) from all three axes of both triaxial accelerometers (20), comparing subsequent data sets to determine if a threshold (94) displacement has been reached. The algorithm checks for rinsing (98) along the lateral axes (or x-axis as defined in this embodiment). If the difference in subsequent data sets is greater than the threshold (94), and survives the check for rinsing (98), it is counted (99) as a stroke. The shaving movement system (62) outputs via the Bluetooth module (36) to a Bluetooth enabled computer (38). The Bluetooth enabled computer (38) provides additional memory (23) and runs at least one computer program to further compile and visually display information to the user. The Bluetooth enabled computer (38) stores data from the shaving movement system (62).

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A shaving system, comprising: a wet-shave razor, comprising: at least part of a handle; and at least one razor cartridge coupled to said at least part of a handle, wherein said razor cartridge has at least one blade with a sharpened shaving edge for cutting hair; and a shaving movement system, comprising: at least one sensor for detecting movement of said wet-shave razor, wherein said at least one sensor is external to said wet-shave razor, a processor to collect input data, and relay, filter, and sort said input data to said at least one memory storage device, at least one memory storage device for storing data related to said movement, a Bluetooth module, wherein said Bluetooth module accepts data from said processor and transmits said data to said memory storage device, at least one algorithm to account for said movement and filter extraneous movement; and at least one power source that provides and/or stores power, wherein said at least one power source provides power for said at least one sensor said processor, said memory storage device, and said Bluetooth module; and a Bluetooth enabled computer that visually displays information generated from said data, providing information regarding the quality of said wet-shave razor, wherein said Bluetooth enabled computer is in communication with said processor via said Bluetooth module.

2. The shaving movement system of claim 1, wherein said shaving movement system is encompassed in a handle that can be gripped by the user, wherein said shaving movement system can be adjustably attached to said at least part of a handle.

3. The shaving movement system of claim 2, wherein said handle is comprised of at least one shell.

4. The handle of claim 3, wherein one of said at least one shells is an enhanced grip

5. The wet-shave razor of claim 1, wherein said at least part of a handle has been modified in order to accept attachment of said shaving movement system.

6. The shaving movement system of claim 1, wherein said shaving movement system is encompassed in a sleeve that can be gripped by the user, wherein said shaving movement system adjustably fits at least partially on top of said at least part of a handle.

7. The shaving movement system of claim 6, wherein said sleeve is at least partially an elastomeric material that can dynamically adjust to any at least part of a handle.

8. The shaving movement system of claim 6, wherein said sleeve can accommodate any size of any at least part of a handle, wherein said sleeve has an adjustment to secure it to any at least part of a handle.

9. The shaving movement system of claim 8, wherein said adjustment is mechanical.

10. The sleeve of claim 6, wherein said sleeve requires use of a can.

11. The can of claim 10, wherein said can protects and contains said at least one sensor, said processor, and said Bluetooth module.

12. The can of claim 10, wherein said can also protects and contains said at least one memory storage device.

13. The can of claim 10, wherein said can also protects and contains said at least one power source.

14. The sleeve of claim 6, wherein said sleeve is an enhanced sleeve.

15. The sleeve of claim 14, wherein said sleeve contains memory sensitive material that fits to the specific user's hand.

16. The at least one sensor for detecting movement of claim 1, wherein said at least one sensor comprises a tri-axial accelerometer.

17. The processor of claim 1 , wherein said processor comprises a microprocessor and a pc board.

18. The at least one algorithm of claim 1, wherein said at least one algorithm comprises at least one loop, wherein said at least one algorithm takes the differences of the second values obtained from the at least one sensor and the initial data obtained, wherein said initial data comprise at least vertical acceleration data obtained by the at least one sensor, wherein a sufficient pause has been incorporated to allow for a difference in movement between sets of said initial data, in order to determine if a threshold value has been met, indicating movement that should be counted and stored, wherein if said threshold value is not obtained, another set of input data from said at least one sensor is compared to the prior set of input data obtained from said at least one sensor, with a sufficient pause in between sets of said input data to permit adequate movement, and subsequent sequential input data sets should be likewise compared until said threshold value is obtained.

19. The at least one algorithm of claim 1, wherein said at least one algorithm provides a means to count shaving strokes.

20. The at least one algorithm of claim 1, wherein said at least one algorithm provides a means to remove extraneous data sets but would be counted, being that the extraneous data sets exceed said threshold value, wherein said means reads the absolute values of data from a single axis to determine whether the motion associated with and producing said extraneous data is occurring, and if said threshold is reached, said extraneous data is removed and is not counted.

21. The at least one algorithm of claim 18, wherein said at least one algorithm has a means for removing said input data when the razor is being rinsed, wherein said means reads the absolute values of said input data from a single axis to determine whether rinsing is occurring, and if said threshold is reached, said input data is removed and is not counted.

22. The Bluetooth enabled computer of claim 1, wherein said computer displays the number of shaving strokes.

23. The shaving movement system of claim 1, wherein said shaving movement system counts shaving strokes.

24. The shaving movement system of claim 1, wherein said shaving movement system is removable from said wet-shave razor.

25. The shaving movement system of claim 1, wherein at least one of said at least one power source is removable.

26. The shaving movement system of claim 1, wherein said at least one sensor for detecting movement is removable from said wet-shave razor.

27. The shaving movement system of claim 1, wherein said at least one memory storage device is removable from said wet-shave razor.

28. The shaving movement system of claim 1, wherein said at least one memory storage device is separate from said wet-shave razor.

29. The shaving movement system of claim 1, wherein said Bluetooth enabled computer contains said at least one memory storage device.

30. A shaving movement system, comprising: at least one sensor for detecting movement of said wet-shave razor, a processor to collect input data from said at least one sensor and relay, filter, and sort said input data to said at least one memory storage device, at least one memory storage device for storing data related to said movement, a Bluetooth module, wherein said Bluetooth module accepts data from said processor and transmits said data to said memory storage device, at least one algorithm to account for said movement and filter extraneous movement, at least one power source that provides and/or stores power, wherein said at least one power source provides power for said at least one sensor said processor, said memory storage device, and said Bluetooth module; and a Bluetooth enabled computer that visually displays information generated from said data, providing information regarding the quality of the said wet-shave razor, wherein said

Bluetooth enabled computer is in communication with said processor via said Bluetooth

Module.

31. The shaving movement system of claim 30, wherein said at least one sensor, said processor, said Bluetooth module, and said at least one power source comprise a functional unit.

32. The shaving movement system of claim 30, wherein said at least one sensor, said processor, said at least one memory storage device, said Bluetooth module, and said at least one power source comprise a functional unit.

33. The functional unit of claim 31 or 32, wherein said Bluetooth enabled computer is separate from said functional unit.

34. The Bluetooth enabled computer of claim 30, wherein said Bluetooth enabled computer contains said at least one memory storage device.

35. A shaving movement system, comprising: at least one sensor for detecting movement of said wet-shave razor, wherein said at least one sensor is external to said wet-shave razor, a processor to collect input data, and relay, filter, and sort said input data, at least one algorithm to account for said movement and filter extraneous movement, a Bluetooth module, wherein said Bluetooth module accepts data from said processor and transmits said data to a computer, a Bluetooth enabled computer that receives data via Bluetooth from said processor and stores said data, and visually displays information generated from said input data, providing information regarding the quality of the said wet-shave razor; and at least one power source that provides and/or stores power, wherein said at least one power source provides power for said at least one sensor said processor, said at least one memory storage device, and said Bluetooth module.

36. The shaving system of claim 35, wherein said at least one sensor for detecting movement is removable from said wet-shave razor.

37. The shaving movement system of claim 35, wherein said at least one power source is removable.

38. A method for measuring movement of a shaving system, comprising the steps of: a wet-shave razor comprising at least part of a handle and at least one cartridge containing at least one razor blade with a sharpened edge to cut hair, at least one sensor detecting movement of said wet-shave implement and communicating this information to a processor, wherein the at least one sensor is external to said wet-shave razor, a processor that accepts input data from a sensor, and is in communication with a Bluetooth enabled computer, a Bluetooth module that permits communication from the processor and the Bluetooth enabled computer, at least one algorithm allowing said processor to accept said input data from said at least one sensor and to count said data and store said data to said at least one memory storage device if a threshold value is reached, a Bluetooth enabled computer to visually display information to the user, relating to and reflecting said input data, and to store data, wherein said computer is in communication with said processor via said Bluetooth module; and at least one power source to provide power to said at least one sensor, processor, at least one memory storage device and output device, wherein said at least one power source may provide a connection to an external power source, may store power from an external source, or may provide power from an internal source.

39. The method of claim 38, wherein said method further comprises a reset function to restart said measuring.

40. The method of claim 39, wherein said reset function further includes an interaction with a switch.

41. The method of claim 39, wherein said reset function is performed through input to the Bluetooth enabled computer.