EP1469977B1 - Razor having thermo-electric shaving aid ejection system and method of ejecting shaving aid - Google Patents
Razor having thermo-electric shaving aid ejection system and method of ejecting shaving aid Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP1469977B1 EP1469977B1 EP03700190A EP03700190A EP1469977B1 EP 1469977 B1 EP1469977 B1 EP 1469977B1 EP 03700190 A EP03700190 A EP 03700190A EP 03700190 A EP03700190 A EP 03700190A EP 1469977 B1 EP1469977 B1 EP 1469977B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- shaving aid
- shaving
- delivery system
- reservoir
- razor head
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims description 23
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 22
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 12
- 230000001050 lubricating effect Effects 0.000 claims description 46
- 239000003795 chemical substances by application Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- -1 polypropylene Chemical class 0.000 claims description 8
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 claims description 7
- PEDCQBHIVMGVHV-UHFFFAOYSA-N Glycerine Chemical compound OCC(O)CO PEDCQBHIVMGVHV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 6
- POJWUDADGALRAB-UHFFFAOYSA-N allantoin Chemical compound NC(=O)NC1NC(=O)NC1=O POJWUDADGALRAB-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 6
- BXWNKGSJHAJOGX-UHFFFAOYSA-N hexadecan-1-ol Chemical compound CCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCO BXWNKGSJHAJOGX-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 6
- GLDOVTGHNKAZLK-UHFFFAOYSA-N octadecan-1-ol Chemical compound CCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCO GLDOVTGHNKAZLK-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 6
- 229920003171 Poly (ethylene oxide) Polymers 0.000 claims description 5
- 235000011399 aloe vera Nutrition 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000003921 oil Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 235000019198 oils Nutrition 0.000 claims description 4
- DAEPDZWVDSPTHF-UHFFFAOYSA-M sodium pyruvate Chemical class [Na+].CC(=O)C([O-])=O DAEPDZWVDSPTHF-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 claims description 4
- POJWUDADGALRAB-PVQJCKRUSA-N Allantoin Natural products NC(=O)N[C@@H]1NC(=O)NC1=O POJWUDADGALRAB-PVQJCKRUSA-N 0.000 claims description 3
- 244000144927 Aloe barbadensis Species 0.000 claims description 3
- 235000002961 Aloe barbadensis Nutrition 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000004743 Polypropylene Chemical class 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000004793 Polystyrene Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- DBMJMQXJHONAFJ-UHFFFAOYSA-M Sodium laurylsulphate Chemical class [Na+].CCCCCCCCCCCCOS([O-])(=O)=O DBMJMQXJHONAFJ-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 claims description 3
- 235000019486 Sunflower oil Nutrition 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000003213 activating effect Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 229960000458 allantoin Drugs 0.000 claims description 3
- 229960000541 cetyl alcohol Drugs 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000002537 cosmetic Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 150000004676 glycans Chemical class 0.000 claims description 3
- 235000011187 glycerol Nutrition 0.000 claims description 3
- GOQYKNQRPGWPLP-UHFFFAOYSA-N n-heptadecyl alcohol Natural products CCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCO GOQYKNQRPGWPLP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920002401 polyacrylamide Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920001155 polypropylene Chemical class 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920001282 polysaccharide Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000005017 polysaccharide Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920002223 polystyrene Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000008159 sesame oil Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 235000011803 sesame oil Nutrition 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920002545 silicone oil Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 235000019333 sodium laurylsulphate Nutrition 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000002600 sunflower oil Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000000341 volatile oil Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 229930003231 vitamin Natural products 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000011782 vitamin Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229940088594 vitamin Drugs 0.000 claims description 2
- 235000013343 vitamin Nutrition 0.000 claims description 2
- 150000003722 vitamin derivatives Chemical class 0.000 claims description 2
- 244000044822 Simmondsia californica Species 0.000 claims 1
- 235000004433 Simmondsia californica Nutrition 0.000 claims 1
- 230000000977 initiatory effect Effects 0.000 claims 1
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 14
- 239000003974 emollient agent Substances 0.000 description 11
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 7
- 239000012858 resilient material Substances 0.000 description 5
- 239000000314 lubricant Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 description 4
- 239000004909 Moisturizer Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000001333 moisturizer Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000009827 uniform distribution Methods 0.000 description 3
- GVJHHUAWPYXKBD-UHFFFAOYSA-N (±)-α-Tocopherol Chemical compound OC1=C(C)C(C)=C2OC(CCCC(C)CCCC(C)CCCC(C)C)(C)CCC2=C1C GVJHHUAWPYXKBD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- VYZAMTAEIAYCRO-UHFFFAOYSA-N Chromium Chemical compound [Cr] VYZAMTAEIAYCRO-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 239000011651 chromium Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000001815 facial effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229940119170 jojoba wax Drugs 0.000 description 2
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000012528 membrane Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000035807 sensation Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000037307 sensitive skin Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 2
- 208000002874 Acne Vulgaris Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 241001116389 Aloe Species 0.000 description 1
- 241000894006 Bacteria Species 0.000 description 1
- 229910000599 Cr alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- ZAKOWWREFLAJOT-CEFNRUSXSA-N D-alpha-tocopherylacetate Chemical compound CC(=O)OC1=C(C)C(C)=C2O[C@@](CCC[C@H](C)CCC[C@H](C)CCCC(C)C)(C)CCC2=C1C ZAKOWWREFLAJOT-CEFNRUSXSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 201000004624 Dermatitis Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 241000196324 Embryophyta Species 0.000 description 1
- 206010015150 Erythema Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 208000010201 Exanthema Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 229920002907 Guar gum Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 206010061218 Inflammation Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 229920002633 Kraton (polymer) Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 201000004681 Psoriasis Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 229910001260 Pt alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 206010040880 Skin irritation Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 239000004141 Sodium laurylsulphate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004902 Softening Agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229930003427 Vitamin E Natural products 0.000 description 1
- 238000005299 abrasion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002745 absorbent Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002250 absorbent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 206010000496 acne Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 208000010668 atopic eczema Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 239000011324 bead Substances 0.000 description 1
- 150000001558 benzoic acid derivatives Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000740 bleeding effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229920001400 block copolymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229910052804 chromium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000012459 cleaning agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000701 coagulant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003750 conditioning effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007797 corrosion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005260 corrosion Methods 0.000 description 1
- ZAKOWWREFLAJOT-UHFFFAOYSA-N d-alpha-Tocopheryl acetate Natural products CC(=O)OC1=C(C)C(C)=C2OC(CCCC(C)CCCC(C)CCCC(C)C)(C)CCC2=C1C ZAKOWWREFLAJOT-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000002951 depilatory effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003599 detergent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 description 1
- 231100000321 erythema Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 201000005884 exanthem Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009472 formulation Methods 0.000 description 1
- WIGCFUFOHFEKBI-UHFFFAOYSA-N gamma-tocopherol Natural products CC(C)CCCC(C)CCCC(C)CCCC1CCC2C(C)C(O)C(C)C(C)C2O1 WIGCFUFOHFEKBI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000009499 grossing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000665 guar gum Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229960002154 guar gum Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 235000010417 guar gum Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000004054 inflammatory process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001788 irregular Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000006210 lotion Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002674 ointment Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001296 polysiloxane Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 206010037844 rash Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 229920003031 santoprene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000021317 sensory perception Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000037380 skin damage Effects 0.000 description 1
- 231100000475 skin irritation Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 230000036556 skin irritation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 231100000046 skin rash Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 239000000344 soap Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229940054269 sodium pyruvate Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 230000003068 static effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001629 suppression Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229940042585 tocopherol acetate Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 238000009834 vaporization Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008016 vaporization Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229940046009 vitamin E Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 235000019165 vitamin E Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000011709 vitamin E Substances 0.000 description 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B26—HAND CUTTING TOOLS; CUTTING; SEVERING
- B26B—HAND-HELD CUTTING TOOLS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B26B21/00—Razors of the open or knife type; Safety razors or other shaving implements of the planing type; Hair-trimming devices involving a razor-blade; Equipment therefor
- B26B21/40—Details or accessories
- B26B21/44—Means integral with, or attached to, the razor for storing shaving-cream, styptic, or the like
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B26—HAND CUTTING TOOLS; CUTTING; SEVERING
- B26B—HAND-HELD CUTTING TOOLS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B26B21/00—Razors of the open or knife type; Safety razors or other shaving implements of the planing type; Hair-trimming devices involving a razor-blade; Equipment therefor
- B26B21/40—Details or accessories
- B26B21/48—Heating means
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates to a shaving system having a lubricating shaving aid for improving the ease with which a razor can be drawn across the skin during the shaving process. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a shaving system which utilizes a thermo-electric system for selectively ejecting shaving aid on demand.
- shaving systems themselves may be significantly enhanced by utilizing a shaving aid to lubricate the skin engaging surfaces during the shaving process.
- a shaving aid to lubricate the skin engaging surfaces during the shaving process.
- static lubricating shaving aids integrated with or attached to the shaving instrument typically adjacent the blade(s) are known to substantially reduce the frictional drag of the skin engaging elements as the shaving instrument is drawn across the shaver's skin.
- these shaving aids are manufactured as lubricating strips which are affixed to the razor head proximate the razor cap portion.
- the lubricating strips generally include a water-insoluble polymer-like material, e.g., polystyrene, and a water-soluble shaving aid emollient, e.g., polyethylene oxide, which tends to leach from the strip during shaving to enhance shave comfort by reducing friction.
- a water-insoluble polymer-like material e.g., polystyrene
- a water-soluble shaving aid emollient e.g., polyethylene oxide
- a hand-held, portable steam razor is known from the document WO-A-94/04106 .
- the present disclosure relates to a shaving aid delivery system for a shaving system according claim 1 which includes a razor head having a reservoir for holding a shaving aid and a heating apparatus disposed adjacent the reservoir preferably in contact with the shaving aid.
- the delivery system also includes a lubricating strip disposed within the razor head and an actuator which electrically couples to the heating element to cause volumetric expansion of the shaving ald when activated.
- the lubricating strip is made from a low friction absorbent foam-like material and is oriented to engage the skin of a user during a shaving stroke.
- the delivers system also includes an ejection port for directing the shaving aid from the reservoir into contact with the lubricating strip upon activation of the actuator.
- the lubricating strip could also be made from a porous or permeable membrane with a unidirectional flow which engages the skin of the user during shaving.
- the razor head is selectively engageable with and detachable from a razor handle, i.e., a disposable razor head cartridge
- the razor head is integral with the razor handle and the entire razor is disposable after a recommended number of shavers.
- the actuator is affixed to the razor handle such that selective activation of the actuator dispenses shaving aid from the reservoir to the lubricating strip as needed during the shaving process.
- a plurality of ejection ports are disposed across the razor head and each ejection port directs shaving aid from the reservoir onto the lubricating strip upon activation of the actuator.
- the delivery system includes a plurality of reservoirs each having an ejection port for dispersing shaving aid along the length of the lubricating strip.
- the lubricating strip may be segmented such that each strip segment aligns with one or more corresponding ejection port(s) to receive shaving aid upon selective actuation by the user.
- each reservoir contains one or more shaving aids (or different shaving aids) selected from the group consisting of: silicone oils, aloe vera compounds, moisturizers, medicinal agents, cosmetic agents, essential oils, vitamin oils, lubricants, sunflower oils, sodium pyruvates, polyethylene oxides, non-ionic polyacrylamides, polysaccharides, sodium lauryl sulphates, polystyrene compounds and polypropylene compounds. More specific examples include: synthetic shaving aids such as dimenthicone, C12-C15 alcohol benzoates, glycerin, cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol and natural shaving aids such as jojoba oil, allantoin, and sesame oil.
- shaving aids selected from the group consisting of: silicone oils, aloe vera compounds, moisturizers, medicinal agents, cosmetic agents, essential oils, vitamin oils, lubricants, sunflower oils, sodium pyruvates, polyethylene oxides, non-ionic polyacrylamides, polysaccharides, sodium lauryl
- a shaving aid delivery system for a shaving system which includes a razor head having a plurality of reservoirs for holding a shaving aid and a heating apparatus which includes at least one resistor and an electrical source.
- a resistor is disposed within each of the reservoirs and in contact with the shaving aid.
- Each of the resistors is electrically coupled to a corresponding actuator which causes volumetric expansion of the having aid within each of the corresponding reservoirs when activated.
- a lubricating strip is disposed within the razor head and oriented to engage the skin of a user during a shaving stroke.
- the lubricating strip is positioned relative to each of the reservoirs and the ejection port disposed within each of the reservoirs directs shaving aid from the reservoir onto the lubricating strip upon activation of the actuator corresponding to each reservoir.
- one of the plurality of the reservoirs includes a first shaving aid and another of the plurality of reservoirs includes a second shaving aid wherein each of the first and second shaving aids is selected from the above-identified group of oils, agents and compounds.
- each of the actuators is selectively and independently activatable by the user to direct shaving aid from each of the corresponding reservoirs onto the lubricating strip as needed during the shaving process.
- the present disclosure also relates to a method of ejecting shaving aid from a razor head as specified in claim 15 and including the steps of: providing a razor head having: a reservoir for holding a shaving aid; a heating element, e.g., resistor, disposed within the reservoir; a lubricating strip disposed within the razor head and oriented to engage the skin of a user during a shaving stroke; and an ejection port for directing the shaving aid from the reservoir into contact with the lubricating strip.
- the method also includes the step of selectively activating the resistor to cause rapid volumetric expansion of the shaving aid such that the shaving aid disperses from the ejection port onto the lubricating strip.
- a shaving aid delivery system for use prior to and/or during the shaving process and is generally identified by reference numeral 60.
- the shaving aid delivery system 60 may be incorporated with the various known types of disposable razors in which the razor (or the useable portion thereof, e.g., a razor head cartridge) is disposed and replaced after a select number of shaves.
- Figs. 1 and 2A show a shaving system 10 in the form of a razor head cartridge 12 which includes a support base 14 having resilient supports 50 and 55 which movably connect a pair of sharpened blades 20a and 20b and a cap member 30 to the support base 14.
- Figs. 1 and 2 show a shaving system 10 with a disposable cartridge 12, the advantages of the present disclosure are equally applicable to other razor designs and shaving systems, e.g., shaving system 10' (see Fig. 2B ).
- the term “razor head” is meant to include cartridges 12 which are designed and manufactured for attachment to a separate razor handle 100, as well as a disposable razor wherein the skin-engaging portions (i.e., guard bar, blades, cap and lubricating strip) are integrally formed with a razor handle section 100.
- the shaving systems disclosed herein generally relate to facial shaving systems, it is contemplated that the presently-disclosed shaving aid delivery system may be included with other known shaving systems which engage other skin areas, e.g., legs, arms, surgical areas, etc.
- the razor head 12, 12' illustrated in Figs. 1 , 2A and 2B includes a support base 14 defined by forward and rear surfaces 17 and 19, respectively, and fixed side walls 15a and 15b.
- a skin engaging guard member 40 is affixed to the support base 14 along and proximate the forward surface 17 of base 14 and a lubricating strip 64 is disposed along the rear surface 19 of base 14.
- a seat blade 20a and a cap blade 20b are supported by a plurality of resilient support members 50 and 55 as best shown in Figs. 2A and 2B .
- the tip of each blade 20a and 20b includes a cutting edge 21 a and 21b, respectively, which refers to the area within about 1 mm. from the ultimate tip of each blade 20a, 20b.
- the razor blade cutting edges 21 a and 21 b are coated with a thin layer of metal coating that provides enhanced durability and corrosion resistance to the underling metal, e.g., chromium or a chromium/platinum alloy.
- metal coating e.g., chromium or a chromium/platinum alloy.
- Other materials may also be coated on a razor blade(s) 20a, 20b such as, for example, the various coating materials identified in U.S. -A- 5,630,275 .
- the support members 50 and 55 are attached along base 14 and support each blade 20a and 20b.
- the guard member 40, blades 20a and 20b, cap member 30, lubricating strip 64 and the outward facing surfaces of the side walls 15a and 15b together define the face 16 of the razor head 12 (12').
- These elements are commonly referred to hereafter as "skin engaging elements”.
- a plurality of resilient supports 50 and 55 are disposed at various positions along the face 16 of the razor head 12 (12') to increase the stability of the blades 20a and 20b and also to provide greater flexibility.
- the support members 50 and 55 are designed to have sufficient inherent resiliency to allow the blades 20a and 20b and cap member 30 to move downwardly relative to side walls 15a and 15b, i.e. toward base 14, in response to the normal forces encountered during shaving.
- the resilient support members 50 and 55 are manufactured from the same resilient material, however, it is contemplated that the support members 50 and 55 may be manufactured from different resilient materials having varying resiliencies.
- the length and positioning of the resilient support members 50 and 55 may be also modified to increase or decrease the overall aggressiveness of the shaving geometry in response to forces encountered during shaving. For example, if the length of one resilient support, e.g., 55, is shorter than another resilient support, e.g., 50, the overall shaving angle which directly correlates to the aggressiveness of the shave will change in response to normal shaving forces.
- the guard member 40 includes a rear surface 42 which affixes the guard member 40 to the base 14 and an outermost guard surface 41 which is preferably made from a resilient, skin-engaging material having a higher coefficient of friction with wet skin than a rigid plastic of the type commonly used with many disposable cartridges 12.
- the guard surface 41 is preferably designed to limit the degree to which the razor can be pressed into the skin which protects the skin from cuts and nicks.
- the guard member 40 may be either a single unitary piece or separate segments, as set forth in U.S. -A- 5,689,883 and US-A- 5,475,923 .
- the resilient guard surface 41 is formed from one or more materials made from polypropylene, Hercuprene 1000, 3000 series, Durometer 30 to 90 A scale available from J-Von, Leominster, Mass.; Kraton G series, Durometer 30 to 90 A scale available from Shell Chemical Co., Lisle, III.; and Santoprene 2271 series, Durometer 30 to 90 A scale available from Monsanto, Co.
- one or more of the above-identifled resilient materials may also be disposed on the upper, skin-engaging portions of sidewalls 15a and 15b.
- the higher coefficient of friction of the resilient material enables the guard member 40 (and the sidewalls 15a, 15b) to grip the skin and exert greater control of the skin as it flows over the blade(s) 20a, 20b.
- the resilient material provides a more detectable sensation to the skin in a manner which will tend to mask any unpleasant sensory perceptions of a sharpened blade traveling across the skin.
- Cap member 30 seats atop blade 20b.
- the cap member 30 may be formed as a single piece extending across the face 16 of the razor head 12, 12' or the cap member may be segmented into a plurality of individual segments depending upon a particular purpose. It is contemplated that the cap member 30 may be integrally formed with or affixed to one or more of the resilient supports 50, 55 in order to unify the overall movement of the blades 20a, 20b and the cap member 30 across the skin during a shaving stroke.
- Other advantages relating to the formation of the cap member 30 are described in U.S. -A- 5,822,862 , U.S. -A- 5,666,729 and U.S. -A- 5,456,009 .
- the shaving system 10 (10') includes a shaving aid delivery system 60 according to the present disclosure which is disposed within the razor head 12 (12') for selectively delivering shaving aid 300 either prior to and/or during the shaving process.
- the shaving aid delivery system 60 includes a reservoir / container 62 for storing a predetermined amount of shaving aid 300 for dispersal and a lubricating strip 64 disposed atop the reservoir 62 which engages the skin during the shaving stroke.
- a sill or ledge 61 supports the reservoir 62 within the razor head 12 (12'), however, other means for supporting the reservoir 62 are also contemplated, e.g., brackets, pins, tabs, etc.
- the reservoir 62 includes a heating element, e.g., resistor 65, disposed therein which is electrically coupled to an electrical source 135, e.g., battery, through an actuator or switch 130.
- the term "heating apparatus” includes the heating element 65 and an electrical source, e.g., battery 135.
- switch 130 is disposed on the razor handle 100 to enable the user to easily and selectively dispense shaving aid 300 from reservoir 62 as needed prior to and/or during the shaving process.
- the reservoir 62 also includes an ejector or nozzle 68 which issues shaving aid 300 from the reservoir 62 onto the lubricating strip or pad 64 as described in more detail below with respect to Figs. 3A-3C .
- the nozzle 68 is tapered to facilitate distribution of the shaving aid 300 in a droplet-like form atop the lubricating strip 64.
- the nozzle 68 may be dimensioned to issue the shaving aid in a spray-like manner.
- the lubricating strip 64 is disposed proximate the rear surface 19 of the razor head 10 (10') and is oriented to engage the skin surface during a normal shaving stroke. It is envisioned that the lubricating strip 64 may be formed of unitary construction (see Fig. 3B ) or segmented (see Figs. 1 , 3A and 3C ).
- the shaving system could be designed such that the shaving aid 300 is dispersed automatically prior to engagement of the razor 12 with the skin of the user and/or during engagement of the razor with the skin.
- the actuator or switch 130 could be automatically activated on facial contact and/or on a change in temperature (hot water).
- Fig. 2A shows one embodiment of the delivery system 60 which is designed for use with a disposable razor head 12 (i.e., commonly referred to as a "razor cartridge") which selectively engages a permanent razor handle 100.
- the razor head 12 may engage the razor handle 100 utilizing a variety of different engagement mechanisms and techniques known In the art such as, for example, the mechanisms and techniques described with respect to U.S. -A- 6,182,366 , US-A 6,138,361 , US-A- 6,122,826 , - US-A 6,112,412 , US-A 6,026,577 , US-A 5,953,824 , US-A 5,787,593 and US-A 5,333,383 .
- the handle 100 (or at least a portion thereof) is dimensioned to engage a corresponding cavity 23 disposed within the razor head 12.
- the razor head 12 includes a notch 27 disposed therein which is dimensioned to selectively engage a pin 112 projecting from the razor handle 100.
- the pin 112 and notch 27 interface allows the razor head 12 to pivot in response to the normal forces encountered during shaving.
- An electrical contact 25 is also disposed within the razor head 12 which is designed to electronically interface with a corresponding contact 120 disposed with the handle upon engagement of the razor head 12 atop the handle 100.
- An electrical cable 67 (or the like) may be employed to connect the contact 25 with the heating element 65.
- additional cables 137 and 139 may be employed to electrically connect contact 120 to the electrical source 135 through the switch 130.
- the contacts 25 and 120 (and electrical cables 139, 137 and 67) provide electrical continuity from the electrical source 135 to the heating element 65 upon activation of the switch 130.
- the heating element 65 When switch 130 is activated, the heating element 65 is quickly heated thereby transferring a significant amount of energy to the shaving aid 300. As a result, a small portion of the shaving aid 300 is quickly vaporized which produces a bubble 400 in the reservoir 62. As the bubble expands, a pressure wave(s) "A" is created which forces a droplet of shaving aid 300 from the nozzle 68 and onto the lubricating strip 64. By controlling the energy transfer to the shaving aid 300, the bubble 400 quickly collapses before any shaving aid vapor can escape nozzle 68. It is envisioned that a control circuit (not shown) may be included with the switch 130 to control the overall release of shaving aid during activation.
- the shaving aid 300 when the shaving aid 300 is depleted after a specific number of shaves, the user simple replaces the razor head 12 with a new razor head which includes a replenished reservoir of shaving aid 300.
- the shaving system 60 may be designed such that the user may selectively change and/or replenish one or more reservoirs 62 at any time irrespective of the wear on the razor head 12.
- the reservoirs 62 may include a separate orifice or inlet (not shown) which allows a user to inject new shaving aid 300 into a specific reservoir as needed during the life of the razor head 12.
- Fig. 2B shows another embodiment of the delivery system 60 disposed within a shaving system 10' wherein the entire shaving system 10' is disposable. This embodiment incorporates many of the same features of the shaving system 10 with the exception that the razor head 12' is integral with the razor handle 100. Similar shaving systems are described U.S. -A- 5,678,316 and US-A 5,575,068 .
- shave-aiding agent 300 refers to a large variety of known shave-aiding agents which comprise one or more combinations of the following substances:
- a plurality of reservoirs may be included in the shaving aid delivery system 60 to enable the user to selectively delivery different shaving aids 300 from specific reservoirs upon demand.
- the shaving system 60 may include a series of reservoirs 62a, 62b and 62c which include a common heating element 65 (see Fig. 3A ) or a plurality of individual heating elements 65a, 65b, 65c (see Fig. 3B ) to issue the shaving aid 300 on demand.
- each heating element, e.g., 65a may be individually coupled to a switch, e.g. 130a, to dispense a desired amount of shaving aid 300a when activated by the user.
- the delivery system 60 may include one or a series of interconnected micro-ducts or micro-channels (not shown) (or other types of microfluidics technology) which mix the various shaving aids 300 from reservoirs 62a, 62b and 62c prior to and/or after ejection from the nozzles 68a, 68b1, 68b2 and 68c.
- mixing the shaving aids In this manner would provide a more homogenous shaving aid solution for shaving and comfort purposes.
- the switch 130 incorporates a circuit (not shown) which regulates an appropriate amount of shaving aid 300 to be dispensed from a particular reservoir 62a-62c based upon the desire of an individual user.
- the user may select a particular switch setting denoted as "sensitive” which will distribute the shaving aid 300 from a reservoir 62a with sensitive shaving emollients or mix a combination of shaving aids 300a, 300b, 300c from a plurality of reservoirs 62a-62c in specific amounts to dispense the shaving aids 300a-300c onto lubricating strips 64a-64c to provide added protection for sensitive skin.
- a different user may select another setting, e.g., heavy beard" to achieve a different shaving feel or to release different combinations or amounts of shaving aid 300 from reservoirs 62a-62c.
- Fig. 3B shows another embodiment of the shaving aid delivery system 60 wherein each individual reservoir, e.g., reservoir 62a, includes a separate heating element, e.g. 65a, which is electrically coupled to a separate switch, e.g. switch 130a.
- the user selectively regulates the amount of shaving aid dispensed from each reservoir upon activation of the switch 130a.
- the switch e.g. switch 130a
- the switch may include a control circuit (not shown) which regulates the expansion of the bubble, e.g., 400a, to reduce vaporization of the shaving aid 300a.
- the delivery system 60 may include a plurality of nozzles, e.g., 68b1 and 68b2, disposed within each reservoir, e.g. reservoir 62b, to foster uniform distribution of the shaving aid 300b across the lubricating strip 64 (see Figs. 3B and 3C ).
- Fig. 3C shows yet another embodiment of the shaving aid delivery system 60 wherein each reservoir 62a, 62b and 62c is dimensioned to extend across the face 16 of the razor head 12 in a row-like manner, e.g., parallel to the blade embers 20a, 20b and cap member 30. More particularly, reservoir 62a is disposed proximate cap member 30, reservoir 62b is stacked behind reservoir 62a and reservoir 62c is stacked behind reservoir 62b. As can be appreciated, dimensioning the reservoirs 62a-62c in this manner fosters uniform distribution of the individual shaving aid 300a-300c across the shaving surface during the shaving stroke in the direction of arrow "B".
- a series of nozzles 68a, 68b, 68c may be arranged along each lubricating strip 64a, 64b, 64c, respectively, to facilitate uniform distribution of the shaving aids 300a, 300b and 300c across each strip.
- the present disclosure also relates to a method of ejecting shaving aid 300 from a razor head 12 and includes, the steps of: providing a razor head 12 having: a reservoir 62 for holding a shaving aid 300; a heating element 65 disposed within the reservoir in contact with the shaving aid 300; a lubricating strip 64 disposed within the razor head 12 and oriented to engage the skin of a user during a shaving stroke; and an ejection port, e.g nozzle 68, for directing the shaving aid 300 from the reservoir 62 onto the lubricating strip 64.
- the method also includes the step of selectively activating the heating element 65 to cause rapid volumetric expansion of the shaving aid 300 such that the shaving aid 300 dispenses from the ejection port 68 onto the lubricating strip 64.
- the razor head may include one, two, three or more blades.
- Cap member 30 may be segmented into multiple segments in order to eliminate distortion during post-molding shrinkage.
- At least one of the blades 20a, 20b may include one or more fencing elements such as the type disclosed in U.S -A- 3,263,330 , US-A- 3,505,734 , US-A- 3,750,285 and US-A 4,122,006 .
- the shaving aid delivery system 60 may be disposed on other skin engaging surfaces of the, razor head 12, e.g., guard bar 40, cap member 30, and/or side walls 15a, 15b.
- the shaving aid delivery system may be employed without a comfort strip, i.e., shaving aid 300 is issued directly from the reservoir(s) 62 and onto the skin of the user upon activation, e.g., "sprayed" onto the skin.
- the user may be able to selectively dispense different shaving aids 300 over the course of the shaving process.
- the user may be able to initially dispense a particular shaving agent 300a from a particular reservoir 62a and/or a combination of reservoirs 62a, 62b, 62c to soften the user's beard prior to shaving (in this instance, for example, the user may be able to reverse the shaving stroke (i.e., opposite the intended cutting stroke direction "B" of the blades 20a, 20b) to simply apply a pre-shave emollient to the skin without cutting). Thereafter, the user may apply subsequent shaving aids 300b, 300c (or a combination thereof) as needed during the shaving process to achieve a desired shaving sensation, e.g., sensitive shaving aid, after shave emollient, etc.
- a desired shaving sensation e.g., sensitive shaving aid, after shave emollient, etc.
- one or more of the reservoirs may include a second port or orifice which enables the reservoir(s) to be refilled with one or more shaving aids.
- the razor could be sold with a syringe which engages the second orifice and enables the user to refill the reservoir with additional shaving aid(s) as needed.
- the presently disclosed shaving system may employ microfluidics technology to mix and/or evenly distribute the shaving aid onto the comfort strip.
- the lubricating strip could be made from a porous or permeable membrane with a unidirectional flow which absorbs the shaving aid for subsequent engagement and issuance to the skin of the user during shaving.
Abstract
Description
- The present disclosure relates to a shaving system having a lubricating shaving aid for improving the ease with which a razor can be drawn across the skin during the shaving process. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a shaving system which utilizes a thermo-electric system for selectively ejecting shaving aid on demand.
- It is known that many factors contribute to overall discomfort during the shaving process. Such factors may include excessive frictional drag of the razor across the skin and the inflammation of various known epidermal conditions which may become irritated by the shaving process, e.g., psoriasis, eczema, erythema, skin rashes, acne, etc. Efforts to address some of these factors have led to the use of emollients such as, for example, pre-shave and/or after-shave lotions, beard softening agents, lathering emollients, medicinal or soothing ointments, aloes, foams, soaps, etc. Even though shaving comfort may be enhanced to some degree utilizing one or more of the above emollients, the requirement that they be applied before or after shaving tends to decrease their overall effectiveness and simply adds to the complexity and time consuming process of shaving.
- It is also known that shaving systems themselves may be significantly enhanced by utilizing a shaving aid to lubricate the skin engaging surfaces during the shaving process. For example, static lubricating shaving aids integrated with or attached to the shaving instrument typically adjacent the blade(s) are known to substantially reduce the frictional drag of the skin engaging elements as the shaving instrument is drawn across the shaver's skin. Typically, these shaving aids are manufactured as lubricating strips which are affixed to the razor head proximate the razor cap portion. The lubricating strips generally include a water-insoluble polymer-like material, e.g., polystyrene, and a water-soluble shaving aid emollient, e.g., polyethylene oxide, which tends to leach from the strip during shaving to enhance shave comfort by reducing friction. Unfortunately, conventional shaving aid strips tend to release an unbalanced quantity of shaving aid over time. Initially, a great quantity will leach from the strip while, after repeated use, progressively smaller quantities are released. Moreover, the surface of the strip may become irregular and rough after repeated use thereby increasing the coefficient of friction of the strip which may contribute to further skin irritation.
- As a result, several manufacturers have attempted to develop new systems associated with the delivery of shaving aids to enhance and prolong the release of the shaving aid during the initial shaving process and over the course of several shaves. Other efforts have been directed at providing delivery systems which consistently apply the appropriate amount of shaving aid over repeated shavings. However and by and large, many of these efforts have been only partially successful in their ability to consistently provide shaving aid over repeated shaving cycles to maintain a consistent and acceptable level of comfort during the shaving process.
- Accordingly, there exists a need to develop a simple and effective shaving system which incorporates a system for effectively delivering a desired amount of shaving aid automatically or selectively by a user over the course of the normal and expected life of the razor or razor cartridge. A hand-held, portable steam razor is known from the document
WO-A-94/04106 - The present disclosure relates to a shaving aid delivery system for a shaving
system according claim 1 which includes a razor head having a reservoir for holding a shaving aid and a heating apparatus disposed adjacent the reservoir preferably in contact with the shaving aid. The delivery system also includes a lubricating strip disposed within the razor head and an actuator which electrically couples to the heating element to cause volumetric expansion of the shaving ald when activated. Preferably, the lubricating strip is made from a low friction absorbent foam-like material and is oriented to engage the skin of a user during a shaving stroke. The delivers system also includes an ejection port for directing the shaving aid from the reservoir into contact with the lubricating strip upon activation of the actuator. Alternatively, the lubricating strip could also be made from a porous or permeable membrane with a unidirectional flow which engages the skin of the user during shaving. - In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the razor head is selectively engageable with and detachable from a razor handle, i.e., a disposable razor head cartridge, In another embodiment, the razor head is integral with the razor handle and the entire razor is disposable after a recommended number of shavers. Preferably, the actuator is affixed to the razor handle such that selective activation of the actuator dispenses shaving aid from the reservoir to the lubricating strip as needed during the shaving process.
- In another embodiment according to the present disclosure, a plurality of ejection ports are disposed across the razor head and each ejection port directs shaving aid from the reservoir onto the lubricating strip upon activation of the actuator. In yet another embodiment, the delivery system includes a plurality of reservoirs each having an ejection port for dispersing shaving aid along the length of the lubricating strip. Alternatively, the lubricating strip may be segmented such that each strip segment aligns with one or more corresponding ejection port(s) to receive shaving aid upon selective actuation by the user.
- In another embodiment, each reservoir contains one or more shaving aids (or different shaving aids) selected from the group consisting of: silicone oils, aloe vera compounds, moisturizers, medicinal agents, cosmetic agents, essential oils, vitamin oils, lubricants, sunflower oils, sodium pyruvates, polyethylene oxides, non-ionic polyacrylamides, polysaccharides, sodium lauryl sulphates, polystyrene compounds and polypropylene compounds. More specific examples include: synthetic shaving aids such as dimenthicone, C12-C15 alcohol benzoates, glycerin, cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol and natural shaving aids such as jojoba oil, allantoin, and sesame oil.
- Another embodiment according to the present disclosure includes a shaving aid delivery system for a shaving system which includes a razor head having a plurality of reservoirs for holding a shaving aid and a heating apparatus which includes at least one resistor and an electrical source. Preferably, a resistor is disposed within each of the reservoirs and in contact with the shaving aid. Each of the resistors is electrically coupled to a corresponding actuator which causes volumetric expansion of the having aid within each of the corresponding reservoirs when activated. A lubricating strip is disposed within the razor head and oriented to engage the skin of a user during a shaving stroke.
- Preferably, the lubricating strip is positioned relative to each of the reservoirs and the ejection port disposed within each of the reservoirs directs shaving aid from the reservoir onto the lubricating strip upon activation of the actuator corresponding to each reservoir. Alternatively, one of the plurality of the reservoirs includes a first shaving aid and another of the plurality of reservoirs includes a second shaving aid wherein each of the first and second shaving aids is selected from the above-identified group of oils, agents and compounds. Preferably, each of the actuators is selectively and independently activatable by the user to direct shaving aid from each of the corresponding reservoirs onto the lubricating strip as needed during the shaving process.
- The present disclosure also relates to a method of ejecting shaving aid from a razor head as specified in claim 15 and including the steps of: providing a razor head having: a reservoir for holding a shaving aid; a heating element, e.g., resistor, disposed within the reservoir; a lubricating strip disposed within the razor head and oriented to engage the skin of a user during a shaving stroke; and an ejection port for directing the shaving aid from the reservoir into contact with the lubricating strip. The method also includes the step of selectively activating the resistor to cause rapid volumetric expansion of the shaving aid such that the shaving aid disperses from the ejection port onto the lubricating strip.
- Other objects and features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description considered in connection with the accompanied drawings. It should be understood, however, that the drawings are designed for the purpose of illustration only and not as a definition of the limits of the present disclosure.
- An illustrative embodiment of the subject thermo-electric shaving aid ejection system and method are described herein with reference to the drawings wherein:
-
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a razor cartridge for a shaving system; -
Fig. 2A is an enlarged, side cross-sectional view of the razor cartridge ofFig. 1 having a shaving aid delivery system according to the present disclosure; -
Fig. 2B is an enlarged, side cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the shaving aid delivery system wherein the razor cartridge is integrally associated with a razor handle; -
Fig. 3A is a schematic, perspective view of the shaving aid delivery system according to the present disclosure showing shaving aid being issued from a nozzle/orifice as a result of a pressure wave induced by a thermally-excited bubble shown in phantom representation; -
Fig. 3B is a schematic, side view of another embodiment of the shaving aid delivery system having three reservoirs filled with different shaving aids; and -
Fig. 3C is an enlarged, schematic view of another embodiment of the shaving aid delivery system having three reservoirs filled with different shaving aids wherein the reservoirs are dimensioned to dispense shaving aid uniformly across the razor head cartridge. - Referring now to
Figs. 1 - 3A , one embodiment of a shaving aid delivery system is shown for use prior to and/or during the shaving process and is generally identified byreference numeral 60. The shavingaid delivery system 60 may be incorporated with the various known types of disposable razors in which the razor (or the useable portion thereof, e.g., a razor head cartridge) is disposed and replaced after a select number of shaves. - The embodiment of the present disclosure illustrated in
Figs. 1 and2A show ashaving system 10 in the form of arazor head cartridge 12 which includes asupport base 14 havingresilient supports blades cap member 30 to thesupport base 14. AlthoughFigs. 1 and2 show ashaving system 10 with adisposable cartridge 12, the advantages of the present disclosure are equally applicable to other razor designs and shaving systems, e.g., shaving system 10' (seeFig. 2B ). As used herein, the term "razor head" is meant to includecartridges 12 which are designed and manufactured for attachment to aseparate razor handle 100, as well as a disposable razor wherein the skin-engaging portions (i.e., guard bar, blades, cap and lubricating strip) are integrally formed with arazor handle section 100. Moreover, although the shaving systems disclosed herein generally relate to facial shaving systems, it is contemplated that the presently-disclosed shaving aid delivery system may be included with other known shaving systems which engage other skin areas, e.g., legs, arms, surgical areas, etc. - The
razor head 12, 12' illustrated inFigs. 1 ,2A and2B includes asupport base 14 defined by forward andrear surfaces side walls guard member 40 is affixed to thesupport base 14 along and proximate theforward surface 17 ofbase 14 and alubricating strip 64 is disposed along therear surface 19 ofbase 14. Aseat blade 20a and acap blade 20b are supported by a plurality ofresilient support members Figs. 2A and2B . The tip of eachblade cutting edge blade - Preferably, the razor
blade cutting edges U.S. -A- 5,630,275 . - It is envisioned that the
support members base 14 and support eachblade guard member 40,blades cap member 30, lubricatingstrip 64 and the outward facing surfaces of theside walls face 16 of the razor head 12 (12'). These elements are commonly referred to hereafter as "skin engaging elements". - Preferably, a plurality of
resilient supports face 16 of the razor head 12 (12') to increase the stability of theblades support members blades cap member 30 to move downwardly relative toside walls base 14, in response to the normal forces encountered during shaving. Preferably, theresilient support members support members resilient support members - The
guard member 40 includes arear surface 42 which affixes theguard member 40 to thebase 14 and anoutermost guard surface 41 which is preferably made from a resilient, skin-engaging material having a higher coefficient of friction with wet skin than a rigid plastic of the type commonly used with manydisposable cartridges 12. Theguard surface 41 is preferably designed to limit the degree to which the razor can be pressed into the skin which protects the skin from cuts and nicks. - The
guard member 40 may be either a single unitary piece or separate segments, as set forth inU.S. -A- 5,689,883 andUS-A- 5,475,923 . Preferably, theresilient guard surface 41 is formed from one or more materials made from polypropylene, Hercuprene 1000, 3000 series,Durometer 30 to 90 A scale available from J-Von, Leominster, Mass.; Kraton G series,Durometer 30 to 90 A scale available from Shell Chemical Co., Lisle, III.; and Santoprene 2271 series,Durometer 30 to 90 A scale available from Monsanto, Co. - It is contemplated that one or more of the above-identifled resilient materials may also be disposed on the upper, skin-engaging portions of
sidewalls sidewalls -
Cap member 30 seats atopblade 20b. Thecap member 30 may be formed as a single piece extending across theface 16 of therazor head 12, 12' or the cap member may be segmented into a plurality of individual segments depending upon a particular purpose. It is contemplated that thecap member 30 may be integrally formed with or affixed to one or more of the resilient supports 50, 55 in order to unify the overall movement of theblades cap member 30 across the skin during a shaving stroke. Other advantages relating to the formation of thecap member 30 are described inU.S. -A- 5,822,862 ,U.S. -A- 5,666,729 andU.S. -A- 5,456,009 . - As best illustrated in
Figs. 2A and2B , the shaving system 10 (10') includes a shavingaid delivery system 60 according to the present disclosure which is disposed within the razor head 12 (12') for selectively deliveringshaving aid 300 either prior to and/or during the shaving process. More particularly, the shavingaid delivery system 60 includes a reservoir /container 62 for storing a predetermined amount of shavingaid 300 for dispersal and alubricating strip 64 disposed atop thereservoir 62 which engages the skin during the shaving stroke. Preferably, a sill orledge 61 supports thereservoir 62 within the razor head 12 (12'), however, other means for supporting thereservoir 62 are also contemplated, e.g., brackets, pins, tabs, etc. - Generally, the
reservoir 62 includes a heating element, e.g.,resistor 65, disposed therein which is electrically coupled to anelectrical source 135, e.g., battery, through an actuator orswitch 130. For the purposes herein, the term "heating apparatus" includes theheating element 65 and an electrical source, e.g.,battery 135. Preferably,switch 130 is disposed on the razor handle 100 to enable the user to easily and selectively dispense shavingaid 300 fromreservoir 62 as needed prior to and/or during the shaving process. Thereservoir 62 also includes an ejector ornozzle 68 which issues shavingaid 300 from thereservoir 62 onto the lubricating strip orpad 64 as described in more detail below with respect toFigs. 3A-3C . Preferably, thenozzle 68 is tapered to facilitate distribution of the shavingaid 300 in a droplet-like form atop the lubricatingstrip 64. Alternatively, thenozzle 68 may be dimensioned to issue the shaving aid in a spray-like manner. The lubricatingstrip 64 is disposed proximate therear surface 19 of the razor head 10 (10') and is oriented to engage the skin surface during a normal shaving stroke. It is envisioned that the lubricatingstrip 64 may be formed of unitary construction (seeFig. 3B ) or segmented (seeFigs. 1 ,3A and3C ). - It is also envisioned that the shaving system could be designed such that the shaving
aid 300 is dispersed automatically prior to engagement of therazor 12 with the skin of the user and/or during engagement of the razor with the skin. For example, the actuator or switch 130 could be automatically activated on facial contact and/or on a change in temperature (hot water). -
Fig. 2A shows one embodiment of thedelivery system 60 which is designed for use with a disposable razor head 12 (i.e., commonly referred to as a "razor cartridge") which selectively engages apermanent razor handle 100. It is envisioned that therazor head 12 may engage the razor handle 100 utilizing a variety of different engagement mechanisms and techniques known In the art such as, for example, the mechanisms and techniques described with respect toU.S. -A- 6,182,366 ,US-A 6,138,361 ,US-A- 6,122,826 , -US-A 6,112,412 ,US-A 6,026,577 ,US-A 5,953,824 ,US-A 5,787,593 andUS-A 5,333,383 . - With particular respect to the embodiment shown in
Fig. 2A , the handle 100 (or at least a portion thereof) is dimensioned to engage acorresponding cavity 23 disposed within therazor head 12. Therazor head 12 includes anotch 27 disposed therein which is dimensioned to selectively engage apin 112 projecting from therazor handle 100. Preferably, thepin 112 and notch 27 interface allows therazor head 12 to pivot in response to the normal forces encountered during shaving. - An
electrical contact 25 is also disposed within therazor head 12 which is designed to electronically interface with acorresponding contact 120 disposed with the handle upon engagement of therazor head 12 atop thehandle 100. An electrical cable 67 (or the like) may be employed to connect thecontact 25 with theheating element 65. Similarly,additional cables contact 120 to theelectrical source 135 through theswitch 130. As can be appreciated, thecontacts 25 and 120 (andelectrical cables electrical source 135 to theheating element 65 upon activation of theswitch 130. - When
switch 130 is activated, theheating element 65 is quickly heated thereby transferring a significant amount of energy to theshaving aid 300. As a result, a small portion of the shavingaid 300 is quickly vaporized which produces abubble 400 in thereservoir 62. As the bubble expands, a pressure wave(s) "A" is created which forces a droplet of shavingaid 300 from thenozzle 68 and onto the lubricatingstrip 64. By controlling the energy transfer to theshaving aid 300, thebubble 400 quickly collapses before any shaving aid vapor can escapenozzle 68. It is envisioned that a control circuit (not shown) may be included with theswitch 130 to control the overall release of shaving aid during activation. - As can be appreciated with this particular embodiment, when the shaving
aid 300 is depleted after a specific number of shaves, the user simple replaces therazor head 12 with a new razor head which includes a replenished reservoir of shavingaid 300. Alternatively, theshaving system 60 may be designed such that the user may selectively change and/or replenish one ormore reservoirs 62 at any time irrespective of the wear on therazor head 12. As mentioned below, thereservoirs 62 may include a separate orifice or inlet (not shown) which allows a user to injectnew shaving aid 300 into a specific reservoir as needed during the life of therazor head 12. -
Fig. 2B shows another embodiment of thedelivery system 60 disposed within a shaving system 10' wherein the entire shaving system 10' is disposable. This embodiment incorporates many of the same features of theshaving system 10 with the exception that the razor head 12' is integral with therazor handle 100. Similar shaving systems are describedU.S. -A- 5,678,316 andUS-A 5,575,068 . - As used herein, the term "shaving
aid 300" refers to a large variety of known shave-aiding agents which comprise one or more combinations of the following substances: - A lubricating agent for reducing the frictional forces between the razor and the skin, e.g., a silicone oil;
- An agent which reduces the drag between the razor parts and the surface being shaved, e.g., a polyethylene oxide In the range of molecular weight between 100,000 and 6,000,000; a non-ionic polyacrylamide; and/or a natural polysaccharide derived from plant materials such as "guar gum";
- An agent which modifies the chemical structure of the hair to allow the razor blade to pass through the whiskers very easily, e.g., a depilatory agent;
- A cleaning agent which allows the whisker and skin debris to wash more easily from the razor parts during shaving, e.g., a silicone polyethylene oxide block copolymer and detergent such as sodium lauryl sulphate;
- A medicinal agent for killing bacteria, or repairing skin damage and abrasions;
- A cosmetic agent for softening, smoothing, conditioning or improving the skin;
- A blood coagulant for the suppression of bleeding that occurs from nicks and cuts;
- Essential oils;
- Vitamin E, e.g., in a formulation of vitamin E acetate, sodium pyruvate, and sunflower oil, contained on a polytrap bead carrier;
- Synthetic moisturizers, lubricants, emollients, e.g., dimenthicone, C12-C15 acohol benzoates, glycerin, cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol;
- Natural moisturizers, lubricants, emollients, e.g., jojoba oil, allantoin, aloe vera and sesame oil.
- As best shown in
Figs. 3A-3C , a plurality of reservoirs may be included in the shavingaid delivery system 60 to enable the user to selectively delivery different shaving aids 300 from specific reservoirs upon demand. More particularly, theshaving system 60 may include a series ofreservoirs Fig. 3A ) or a plurality ofindividual heating elements Fig. 3B ) to issue the shavingaid 300 on demand. As can be appreciated, each heating element, e.g., 65a, may be individually coupled to a switch, e.g. 130a, to dispense a desired amount of shavingaid 300a when activated by the user. - It is also envisioned that the
delivery system 60 may include one or a series of interconnected micro-ducts or micro-channels (not shown) (or other types of microfluidics technology) which mix the various shaving aids 300 fromreservoirs nozzles 68a, 68b1, 68b2 and 68c. As can be appreciated, mixing the shaving aids In this manner would provide a more homogenous shaving aid solution for shaving and comfort purposes. - In one embodiment, the
switch 130 incorporates a circuit (not shown) which regulates an appropriate amount of shavingaid 300 to be dispensed from aparticular reservoir 62a-62c based upon the desire of an individual user. For example, the user may select a particular switch setting denoted as "sensitive" which will distribute theshaving aid 300 from areservoir 62a with sensitive shaving emollients or mix a combination of shavingaids reservoirs 62a-62c in specific amounts to dispense the shaving aids 300a-300c onto lubricating strips 64a-64c to provide added protection for sensitive skin. A different user may select another setting, e.g., heavy beard" to achieve a different shaving feel or to release different combinations or amounts of shavingaid 300 fromreservoirs 62a-62c. -
Fig. 3B shows another embodiment of the shavingaid delivery system 60 wherein each individual reservoir, e.g.,reservoir 62a, includes a separate heating element, e.g. 65a, which is electrically coupled to a separate switch,e.g. switch 130a. The user selectively regulates the amount of shaving aid dispensed from each reservoir upon activation of theswitch 130a. As mentioned above, the switch,e.g. switch 130a, may include a control circuit (not shown) which regulates the expansion of the bubble, e.g., 400a, to reduce vaporization of theshaving aid 300a. It is also envisioned that thedelivery system 60 may include a plurality of nozzles, e.g., 68b1 and 68b2, disposed within each reservoir,e.g. reservoir 62b, to foster uniform distribution of the shavingaid 300b across the lubricating strip 64 (seeFigs. 3B and3C ). -
Fig. 3C shows yet another embodiment of the shavingaid delivery system 60 wherein eachreservoir face 16 of therazor head 12 in a row-like manner, e.g., parallel to theblade embers cap member 30. More particularly,reservoir 62a is disposedproximate cap member 30,reservoir 62b is stacked behindreservoir 62a andreservoir 62c is stacked behindreservoir 62b. As can be appreciated, dimensioning thereservoirs 62a-62c in this manner fosters uniform distribution of theindividual shaving aid 300a-300c across the shaving surface during the shaving stroke in the direction of arrow "B". A series ofnozzles strip - The present disclosure also relates to a method of ejecting
shaving aid 300 from arazor head 12 and includes, the steps of: providing arazor head 12 having: areservoir 62 for holding ashaving aid 300; aheating element 65 disposed within the reservoir in contact with the shavingaid 300; alubricating strip 64 disposed within therazor head 12 and oriented to engage the skin of a user during a shaving stroke; and an ejection port,e.g nozzle 68, for directing the shavingaid 300 from thereservoir 62 onto the lubricatingstrip 64. The method also includes the step of selectively activating theheating element 65 to cause rapid volumetric expansion of the shavingaid 300 such that the shavingaid 300 dispenses from theejection port 68 onto the lubricatingstrip 64. - From the foregoing and with reference to the various figure drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that certain modifications can be made to the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the same. For example, while two
blades Cap member 30 may be segmented into multiple segments in order to eliminate distortion during post-molding shrinkage. At least one of theblades U.S -A- 3,263,330 ,US-A- 3,505,734 ,US-A- 3,750,285 andUS-A 4,122,006 . - Moreover, it is envisioned that two users may purchase the
same shaving system 10 and subsequently select different combinations of shaving aids 300 from any number ofreservoirs 62 to provide individualized shaving experiences based upon a particular need, e.g., sensitive skin emollients and/or emollients to soften a heavy beard. It is also contemplated that the shavingaid delivery system 60 may be disposed on other skin engaging surfaces of the,razor head 12, e.g.,guard bar 40,cap member 30, and/orside walls aid 300 is issued directly from the reservoir(s) 62 and onto the skin of the user upon activation, e.g., "sprayed" onto the skin. - It is also envisioned that the user may be able to selectively dispense different shaving aids 300 over the course of the shaving process. For example, it is envisioned that the user may be able to initially dispense a
particular shaving agent 300a from aparticular reservoir 62a and/or a combination ofreservoirs blades - It is also envisioned that one or more of the reservoirs may include a second port or orifice which enables the reservoir(s) to be refilled with one or more shaving aids. For example, the razor could be sold with a syringe which engages the second orifice and enables the user to refill the reservoir with additional shaving aid(s) as needed.
- It is further contemplated that the presently disclosed shaving system may employ microfluidics technology to mix and/or evenly distribute the shaving aid onto the comfort strip. In addition, the lubricating strip could be made from a porous or permeable membrane with a unidirectional flow which absorbs the shaving aid for subsequent engagement and issuance to the skin of the user during shaving.
- While several embodiments of the disclosure have been described herein, it is not intended that the disclosure be limited thereto, as it is intended that the disclosure be as broad in scope as the art will allow and that the specification be read likewise. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting but merely as exemplifications of preferred embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope of the claims appended hereto.
Claims (15)
- A shaving aid delivery system for a shaving system, characterized by:- a razor head (12,12') having at least one reservoir (62,62a,62b,62c) for holding a shaving aid (300,300a,300b,300c),- a heating apparatus disposed adjacent to said reservoir (62,62a,62b,62c),- an actuator (130,130a,130b,130c) coupled to said heating apparatus for initiating volumetric expansion of said shaving aid (300,300a,300b,300c) when activated, and- an ejection port (68,68a,68b,68c) for issuing said shaving aid (300,300a,300b,300c) from said reservoir (62,62a,62b,62c) upon activation of said actuator (130,130a,130b,130c).
- The shaving aid delivery system according to claim 1 wherein said heating apparatus includes a resistor (65,65a,65b,65c) and an electrical source (135).
- The shaving aid delivery system according to claim 2 wherein said resistor (65,65a,65b,65c) is disposed within said reservoir (62,62a,62b,62c) in contact with said shaving aid (300,300a,300b,300c).
- The shaving aid delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 3 further comprising a lubricating strip (64,64a,64b,64c) disposed within said razor head (12,12') and oriented to engage the skin of a user during a shaving stroke.
- The shaving aid delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein said razor head (12,12') is selectively engageable with a razor handle (100).
- The shaving aid delivery system according to claim 5 wherein said actuator (130,130a,130b,130c) is affixed to said razor handle (100).
- The shaving aid delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein said razor head (12,12') is integral with a razor handle (100).
- The shaving aid delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 7 further comprising a plurality of ejection ports (68,68a,68b,68c) disposed across said razor head (12,12').
- The shaving aid delivery system according to claim 4 or claim 4 and any one of the preceding claims further comprising a plurality of ejection ports (68,68a,68b,68c) disposed across said razor head (12,12'), each of said ejection ports (68,68a,68b,68c) for directing said shaving aid (300,300a,300b,300c), from said reservoir (62,62a,62b,62c) into contact with a portion of said lubricating strip (64,64a,64b,64c) upon activation of said actuator (130,130a,130b,130c).
- The shaving aid delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein- said razor head (12,12') has a plurality of reservoirs (62,62a,62b,62c) for holding a shaving aid (300,300a,300b,300c),- said heating apparatus has an electrical source (135) and a plurality of resistors (65,65a,65b,65c) each disposed adjacent one of said reservoirs (62,62a,62b,62c), each of said resistors (65,65a,65b,65c) being electrically coupled to a corresponding actuator (130,130a,130b,130c) which causes volumetric expansion of said shaving ai (300,300a,300b,300c) within each of said corresponding reservoirs (62,62a,62b,62c) when activated,- a lubricating strip (64,64a,64b,64c) is disposed within said razor head (12,12') and oriented to engage the skin of a user during a shaving stroke, said lubricating strip (64,64a,64b,64c) being positioned relative to each of said reservoirs (62,62a,62b,62c), and- said ejection port (68,68a 68b,68c) is disposed within each of said reservoirs (62,65a,65b,65c) for issuing said shaving aid (300,300a,300b,300c) from said reservoir (62,62a,62b,62c) into contact with said lubricating strip (64,64a,64b,64c) upon activation of said actuator (130,130a,130b,30c) corresponding to each of said reservoirs (62,62a,62b,62c).
- The shaving aid delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein said shaving aid (300,300a,300b,300c) is selected from the group consisting of silicone oils, aloe vera compounds, medicinal agents, cosmetic agents, essential oils, vitamin oils, sunflower oils, sesame oils, jojoba oils, allantoin, sodium pyruvates, polyethylene oxides, non-ionic polyacrylamides, polysaccharides, sodium lauryl sulphates, polystyrene compounds and polypropylene compounds, dimenthicone, alcohol benzoates, glycerin, cetyl alcohol, and stearyl alcohol.
- The shaving aid delivery system according to claim 10 wherein each of said actuators (130,130a,130b,130c) is affixed to said razor handle (100).
- The shaving aid delivery system according to claim 12 wherein each of said actuators (130,130a,130b,130c) is selectively and independently activatable to direct shaving aid (300,300a,300b,300c) from each of said corresponding reservoirs (62,62a,62b,62c) into contact with said lubricating strip (64,64a,64b,64c).
- The shaving aid delivery system according to claim 10 or claim 10 and claim 12 or 13 further comprising a plurality of lubricating strips (64,64a,64b64c), each said lubricating strips (64,64a,64b,64c) being disposed adjacent to one of said plurality of reservoirs (62,62a,62b,62c).
- The method of ejecting shaving aid from a razor head comprising the steps of:- providing a razor head (12,12') having an electrical source (135), a reservoir (62,62a,62b,62c) for holding a shaving aid (300,300a, 300b,300c), and a resistor (65,65a,65b,65c) coupled to said electrical source (135) and disposed within said reservoir (62,62a,62b,62c) in contact with said shaving aid (300,300a,300b,300c),- a lubricating strip (64,64a,64b,64c) disposed within said razor head (12,12') and oriented to engage the skin of a user during a shaving stroke,- an ejection port (68,68a,68b,68c) for directing said shaving aid (300,300a,300b,300c) from said reservoir (62,62a,62b,62c) into contact with said lubricating strip (64,64a,64b,64c), and- selectively activating said resistor (65,65a,65b,65c) to cause rapid volumetric expansion of said shaving aid (300,300a,300b,300c) such that said shaving aid (300,300a,300b,300c) dispenses from said ejection port (68,68a,68b,68c) into contact with said lubricating strip (64,64a,64b,64c).
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US35280402P | 2002-01-30 | 2002-01-30 | |
US352804P | 2002-01-30 | ||
PCT/IB2003/000288 WO2003064122A1 (en) | 2002-01-30 | 2003-01-22 | Razor having thermo-electric shaving aid ejection system and method of ejecting shaving aid |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP1469977A1 EP1469977A1 (en) | 2004-10-27 |
EP1469977B1 true EP1469977B1 (en) | 2009-04-22 |
Family
ID=27663134
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP03700190A Expired - Lifetime EP1469977B1 (en) | 2002-01-30 | 2003-01-22 | Razor having thermo-electric shaving aid ejection system and method of ejecting shaving aid |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP1469977B1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2005515868A (en) |
AT (1) | ATE429314T1 (en) |
DE (1) | DE60327299D1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2003064122A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7103977B2 (en) | 2002-08-21 | 2006-09-12 | Eveready Battery Company, Inc. | Razor having a microfluidic shaving aid delivery system and method of ejecting shaving aid |
AU2010308335B2 (en) * | 2009-10-20 | 2016-08-04 | Edgewell Personal Care Brands, Llc | Lubrication box for a wet shaving implement |
US9446573B2 (en) * | 2009-10-21 | 2016-09-20 | Edgewell Personal Care Brands, Llc | Lubrication box for a wet shaving implement |
JP5746354B2 (en) * | 2010-10-21 | 2015-07-08 | エバレデイ バツテリ カンパニー インコーポレーテツド | Lubrication box for wet shaving equipment |
EP2918381B1 (en) * | 2012-11-06 | 2017-12-06 | Sumitomo Seika Chemicals CO. LTD. | Lubricative resin composition |
EP4134212A1 (en) * | 2021-08-13 | 2023-02-15 | BIC Violex Single Member S.A. | Skin contacting members and shaving razor assemblies |
Family Cites Families (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE718879C (en) * | 1939-01-03 | 1943-09-22 | Schenk Hans | Steam-heated shaver |
US5072512A (en) * | 1990-05-18 | 1991-12-17 | Noujain Elie G | Reservoir razor for applying a thin film of metal lubricant onto the blade of the razor and method of shaving |
CA2142814A1 (en) * | 1992-08-17 | 1994-03-03 | Anton H. Clemens | Hand held, portable steam razor |
FR2703290A1 (en) * | 1993-04-02 | 1994-10-07 | Mendola Claude | Heating device improving the comfort of mechanical shaving of the epidermis |
-
2003
- 2003-01-22 AT AT03700190T patent/ATE429314T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2003-01-22 DE DE60327299T patent/DE60327299D1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-01-22 EP EP03700190A patent/EP1469977B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-01-22 WO PCT/IB2003/000288 patent/WO2003064122A1/en active Application Filing
- 2003-01-22 JP JP2003563787A patent/JP2005515868A/en active Pending
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP1469977A1 (en) | 2004-10-27 |
DE60327299D1 (en) | 2009-06-04 |
JP2005515868A (en) | 2005-06-02 |
WO2003064122A1 (en) | 2003-08-07 |
ATE429314T1 (en) | 2009-05-15 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US7111400B2 (en) | Razor having thermo-electric shaving aid ejection system and method of ejecting shaving aid | |
EP1472056B1 (en) | Razor having deformable shaving aid ejection system and method of ejecting shaving aid | |
JP5717804B2 (en) | Manual liquid dispensing razor | |
CN101687329B (en) | Pivotally actuated pump driven liquid dispensing shaving razor | |
CN101977738B (en) | Manually actuable liquid dispensing razor with degradable shaving aid | |
EP0854016B1 (en) | Suspended blade shaving system | |
CA2293598C (en) | Lubricating shaving aid | |
EP1551602B1 (en) | Razor having a microfluidic shaving aid delivery system and method of ejecting shaving aid | |
EP0858869B1 (en) | Razor heads having independently flexible blades | |
EP1469977B1 (en) | Razor having thermo-electric shaving aid ejection system and method of ejecting shaving aid | |
AU757035B2 (en) | Shaving systems with foam skin-engaging element |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
PUAI | Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012 |
|
17P | Request for examination filed |
Effective date: 20040724 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: A1 Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE SI SK TR |
|
AX | Request for extension of the european patent |
Extension state: AL LT LV MK RO |
|
17Q | First examination report despatched |
Effective date: 20060712 |
|
GRAP | Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1 |
|
RIN1 | Information on inventor provided before grant (corrected) |
Inventor name: TAO, YE Inventor name: LIU, HAO-CHIH Inventor name: GUIMONT, RAYMOND Inventor name: SWANSON, MATTHEW, DAVID |
|
GRAS | Grant fee paid |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3 |
|
GRAA | (expected) grant |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: B1 Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE SI SK TR |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: GB Ref legal event code: FG4D |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: CH Ref legal event code: EP |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: IE Ref legal event code: FG4D |
|
REF | Corresponds to: |
Ref document number: 60327299 Country of ref document: DE Date of ref document: 20090604 Kind code of ref document: P |
|
NLV1 | Nl: lapsed or annulled due to failure to fulfill the requirements of art. 29p and 29m of the patents act | ||
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: ES Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20090802 Ref country code: FI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20090422 Ref country code: PT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20090822 Ref country code: AT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20090422 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: SI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20090422 Ref country code: NL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20090422 Ref country code: SE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20090722 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: CZ Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20090422 Ref country code: EE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20090422 Ref country code: DK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20090422 |
|
PLBI | Opposition filed |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009260 |
|
PLAX | Notice of opposition and request to file observation + time limit sent |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNOBS2 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: SK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20090422 Ref country code: BE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20090422 |
|
26 | Opposition filed |
Opponent name: THE GILLETTE COMPANY Effective date: 20100122 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: BG Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20090722 |
|
PLAF | Information modified related to communication of a notice of opposition and request to file observations + time limit |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSCOBS2 |
|
PLBB | Reply of patent proprietor to notice(s) of opposition received |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNOBS3 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: MC Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20100131 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: CH Ref legal event code: PL |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: IE Ref legal event code: MM4A |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: CH Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20100131 Ref country code: LI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20100131 Ref country code: GR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20090723 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: IE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20100122 |
|
PLCK | Communication despatched that opposition was rejected |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNREJ1 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: IT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20090422 |
|
PLBN | Opposition rejected |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009273 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: OPPOSITION REJECTED |
|
27O | Opposition rejected |
Effective date: 20110210 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R100 Ref document number: 60327299 Country of ref document: DE Effective date: 20110210 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: CY Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20090422 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: LU Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20100122 Ref country code: HU Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20091023 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: TR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20090422 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: FR Payment date: 20130211 Year of fee payment: 11 Ref country code: GB Payment date: 20130125 Year of fee payment: 11 Ref country code: DE Payment date: 20130129 Year of fee payment: 11 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R119 Ref document number: 60327299 Country of ref document: DE |
|
GBPC | Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee |
Effective date: 20140122 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: DE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20140801 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: ST Effective date: 20140930 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R119 Ref document number: 60327299 Country of ref document: DE Effective date: 20140801 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: GB Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20140122 Ref country code: FR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20140131 |