JP7289428B2 - shaving device - Google Patents

Description

Cross-reference to related applications
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/060,700, filed Oct. 7, 2014, itself a U.S. patent application filed on Feb. 20, 2015. U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 14/873,857, itself filed October 2, 2015, which is a continuation of Publication No. 14/627,282 (now U.S. Patent No. 9,259,846) U.S. patent application filed April 21, 2016, which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 14/977,560, filed December 21, 2015, which is a continuation-in-part application of This is a continuation of Publication No. 15/135,485, the entire disclosures of which are fully incorporated herein by reference. This application also claims the benefit of US Provisional Patent Application No. 62/201,551, filed August 5, 2015, the entire disclosure of which is fully incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to personal grooming devices, and more particularly to personal shaving devices for shaving hair.

[0003] Shaving razors are available in a variety of forms. For example, a shaving razor may include a disposable razor cartridge configured to be selectively coupled to the handle. The razor cartridge may include one or more razor blades positioned on the cutting surface of the disposable razor cartridge. When the razor blade becomes dull, the user can disconnect the razor cartridge from the handle and reconnect a new razor cartridge.

[0004] The above and other features of the present disclosure, as well as methods of obtaining them, will become more apparent and better understood by reference to the following description of the embodiments described herein in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. understood.

1 shows a front view of a partially assembled shaving device consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 1B shows a front view of the partially assembled shaving device of FIG. 1A with one embodiment of a hinge showing the head assembly generally parallel to the handle; FIG. 1B shows a front view of the partially assembled shaving device of FIG. 1A with one embodiment of a hinge showing the head assembly at an angle α to the handle; FIG. 1B shows a side view of the partially assembled shaving device of FIG. 1A; FIG. 1B shows a side view of the shaving device of FIG. 1A when fully assembled with the pivot biasing mechanism extended; FIG. 1B shows a side view of the shaving device of FIG. 1A when fully assembled with the swivel biasing mechanism retracted; FIG. 4 shows another embodiment of a shaving device. Figure 6B shows a cross-sectional view along line 6-6 of the handle of the shaving device of Figure 6B. FIG. 10 illustrates an enlarged view of one embodiment of a blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism; 6 illustrates one embodiment of a resistance pivot mechanism consistent with FIG. 4 shows another embodiment of a resistive pivot mechanism. 4 shows yet another embodiment of a resistive pivoting mechanism; 10 shows another view of the resistance pivot mechanism consistent with FIG. 9. FIG. Fig. 4 shows another embodiment of a resistance pivot mechanism consistent with the present disclosure; Figure 12 shows another view of the resistance pivot mechanism consistent with Figure 11; Fig. 4 shows yet another embodiment of a resistance pivot mechanism consistent with the present disclosure; Figure 14 shows another view of the resistance pivot mechanism consistent with Figure 13; 10A-10B show yet further embodiments of resistance pivot mechanisms consistent with the present disclosure; 4A and 4B show yet additional embodiments of resistance pivot mechanisms consistent with the present disclosure; 4A and 4B show yet additional embodiments of resistance pivot mechanisms consistent with the present disclosure; 4A and 4B show additional embodiments of resistive pivoting mechanisms consistent with the present disclosure; 4A and 4B show additional embodiments of resistive pivoting mechanisms consistent with the present disclosure; 1 schematically illustrates one embodiment of a blade cartridge including a resistive pivot mechanism consistent with the present disclosure; One embodiment of a resistive pivoting mechanism consistent with the present disclosure is schematically illustrated along lines 19-19 in FIG. One embodiment of a resistive pivoting mechanism consistent with the present disclosure is schematically illustrated along line 20-20 in FIG. 20 schematically shows another embodiment of a resistance pivot mechanism similar to that of FIG. 19; Figure 21 schematically shows another embodiment of a resistance pivot mechanism similar to that of Figure 20; FIG. 4 schematically illustrates another embodiment of a resistive pivot mechanism including a ballast mechanism consistent with the present disclosure; FIG. FIG. 4 schematically illustrates another embodiment of a resistive pivot mechanism including a ballast mechanism consistent with the present disclosure; FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a hinge and swivel mechanism consistent with the present disclosure; 1 illustrates one embodiment of a hinge and swivel mechanism consistent with the present disclosure; 1 illustrates one embodiment of a hinge and swivel mechanism consistent with the present disclosure; FIG. 11 illustrates one embodiment of a blade cartridge centering mechanism; FIG. 29 illustrates one embodiment of a blade cartridge centering mechanism consistent with FIG. [0014] Fig. 3 shows an enlarged front view of a blade cartridge according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 10B illustrates an enlarged front view of a blade cartridge according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of a section of a blade cartridge including retractable ball bearings according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a section of a blade cartridge including retractable ball bearings according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a section of a blade cartridge including retractable ball bearings according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a blade cartridge including a self-lubricating retractable ball bearing/long ball bearing/roller pin according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a blade cartridge including a self-lubricating retractable ball bearing/long ball bearing/roller pin according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a blade cartridge including a self-lubricating retractable ball bearing/long ball bearing/roller pin according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 3 shows a view of a retaining clip for securing the ball bearings within the blade cartridge. FIG. 3 shows a view of a retaining clip for securing the ball bearings within the blade cartridge. FIG. 3 shows a view of a retaining clip for securing the ball bearings within the blade cartridge. FIG. 4 shows a view of a blade retention clip for securing one or more razor blades within a blade cartridge; FIG. 4 shows a view of a blade retention clip for securing one or more razor blades within a blade cartridge; FIG. 4 shows a view of a blade retention clip for securing one or more razor blades within a blade cartridge; FIG. 10B illustrates an enlarged front view of a blade cartridge according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 10B illustrates an enlarged front view of a blade cartridge according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 13B shows an end view of yet another embodiment of a blade cartridge consistent with the present disclosure; 39 shows an end perspective view of the blade cartridge consistent with FIG. 38; FIG. Figure 40 shows an end view of one embodiment of a pivot pin/cylinder that may be used with one embodiment of a resistive pivot mechanism in conjunction with the blade cartridge of Figures 38 and 39; 38-40 show additional views consistent with FIGS. 38-40 show additional views consistent with FIGS. 38-40 show additional views consistent with FIGS. 38-40 show additional views consistent with FIGS. 38-40 show additional views consistent with FIGS. Figure 28 shows additional views of the razor consistent with Figures 25-27; Figure 28 shows additional views of the razor consistent with Figures 25-27; Figure 28 shows additional views of the razor consistent with Figures 25-27; Figure 28 shows additional views of the razor consistent with Figures 25-27; FIG. 4 shows additional views of a blade cartridge consistent with the present disclosure; FIG. 4 shows additional views of a blade cartridge consistent with the present disclosure; FIG. 4 shows additional views of a blade cartridge consistent with the present disclosure; FIG. 4 shows another view of a razor consistent with the present disclosure; 1 illustrates one embodiment of a razor having a resistance rocking mechanism consistent with the present disclosure; FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of another shaving device including another embodiment of a resistance pivot mechanism consistent with the present disclosure; FIG. 56 shows a side view of the shaving device of FIG. 55 with a resistive swivel mechanism; Figure 56 shows an enlarged side view of the shaving device of Figure 55; 4 shows another embodiment of a resistive pivot mechanism. 59 shows the resistive pivot mechanism of FIG. 58 with the blade cartridge support member partially transparent; Fig. 2 shows one arrangement of blade cartridge magnets and blade cartridge support member magnets; Figure 3 shows another arrangement of blade cartridge magnets and blade cartridge support member magnets; Fig. 3 shows yet another arrangement of blade cartridge magnets and blade cartridge support member magnets; Figure 59B shows another view of the resistive pivot mechanism of Figure 59A. Figure 59 shows another view of the blade cartridge support member of Figure 58, wherein the blade cartridge support member is partially transparent; Figure 62 shows another view of the blade cartridge support member of Figure 61, wherein the blade cartridge support member is solid; Figure 59 shows another view of the blade cartridge of Figure 58, wherein the blade cartridge is partially transparent; Figure 64 shows another view of the blade cartridge of Figure 63, wherein the blade cartridge is partially solid; 4 shows another embodiment of a resistive pivot mechanism. 66 shows the resistive pivot mechanism of FIG. 65 in which the blade cartridge support member is solid; 66 shows the resistive pivot mechanism of FIG. 65 with the blade cartridge support member partially transparent; Figure 66 shows a cross-sectional view of the blade cartridge of Figure 65; Figure 66 shows another cross-sectional view of the blade cartridge of Figure 65; FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a resistive pivot mechanism; 71 shows the resistive pivot mechanism of FIG. 70 with the blade cartridge support member in addition to the axle and cam being partially transparent; Figure 72 shows another view of the blade cartridge support member of Figure 71 without the axle and cam; 71 shows another view of the blade cartridge of FIG. 70 with the blade cartridge support member partially solid; FIG. 71 shows another view of the resistance pivot mechanism of FIG. 70 in which the blade cartridge support member is partially transparent along with the axle, cam and detent plate; FIG. Figure 71 shows a cross-sectional view of the blade cartridge of Figure 70; 71 shows another cross-sectional view of the blade cartridge of FIG. 70; FIG. FIG. 11 shows an unassembled embodiment of a head assembly and handle configured to be coupled together using one or more magnets; FIG. Figure 78 schematically shows the head assembly and handle of Figure 77 in an assembled state; Figure 78 shows a cross-sectional view of the head assembly and handle of Figure 77 in an unassembled state; Figure 78 shows a cross-sectional view of the head assembly and handle of Figure 77 in assembled condition; FIG. 81 shows the magnetic force at different displacements into the cavity consistent with the magnetic coupling of FIGS. 77-80. FIG. FIG. 81 shows the magnetic force at different displacements into the cavity consistent with the magnetic coupling of FIGS. 77-80. FIG. Figure 4 shows another embodiment of the magnetic connection between the head assembly and the handle; Fig. 4 shows a further embodiment of the magnetic connection between the head assembly and the handle; FIG. 11 illustrates one embodiment of a blade cartridge connection mechanism for securing a blade cartridge to a blade cartridge support member in an unassembled state; FIG. 85 shows the blade cartridge attachment mechanism of FIG. 84 in an assembled state; Figure 85 shows a cross-sectional view of the blade cartridge connection mechanism of Figure 84 in an unassembled state; Figure 85 shows a cross-sectional view of the blade cartridge connection mechanism of Figure 84 in an assembled state; FIG. 11 illustrates an unassembled embodiment of a blade cartridge retainer for securing a blade cartridge to a blade cartridge support member; FIG. Figure 89 shows the blade cartridge retainer of Figure 88 in an assembled state; Figure 10 is another embodiment of a blade cartridge retainer for securing a blade cartridge to a blade cartridge support member in an assembled state; Figure 91 shows a cross-section along line AA of the blade cartridge retainer of Figure 90; FIG. 90 shows a cross-section along line BB of the blade cartridge retainer of FIG. Figure 10 shows another embodiment of a connection mechanism for coupling the resistance pivot mechanism and/or the blade cartridge to the handle in an unassembled state; 94 shows the resistance pivot mechanism and/or connection mechanism of FIG. 93 assembled. 94 shows a cross-section of the blade cartridge retainer of FIG. 93; Figure 4 shows another resistance pivot mechanism and/or connection mechanism in assembled condition; FIG. 11 illustrates one embodiment of a hard stop/ISP protrusion; FIG. Figure 3 shows an embodiment of two or more diametrically magnetized (DM) magnets for coupling two components; Figure 3 shows an embodiment of two or more diametrically magnetized (DM) magnets for coupling two components; Figure 3 shows an embodiment of two or more diametrically magnetized (DM) magnets for coupling two components; Figure 3 shows an embodiment of two or more diametrically magnetized (DM) magnets for coupling two components; Figure 3 shows an embodiment of two or more diametrically magnetized (DM) magnets for coupling two components; Figure 3 shows a further embodiment using DM magnets. Figure 3 shows a further embodiment using DM magnets. Figure 3 shows a further embodiment using DM magnets. FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment of two or more DM magnets that allow lateral movement of the blade cartridge support member/blade cartridge relative to the handle; FIG. FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment of two or more DM magnets that allow lateral movement of the blade cartridge support member/blade cartridge relative to the handle; FIG. FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment of two or more DM magnets that allow lateral movement of the blade cartridge support member/blade cartridge relative to the handle; FIG. Figure 10 shows a further embodiment featuring two or more DM magnets; Figure 10 shows a further embodiment featuring two or more DM magnets; Fig. 10 shows a still further embodiment featuring two or more DM magnets; Fig. 10 shows a still further embodiment featuring two or more DM magnets; Fig. 10 shows a still further embodiment featuring two or more DM magnets; Figure 10 shows additional embodiments featuring more than one DM magnet; A plurality of DM magnet pairs for securely attaching two components and for rotating the components relative to each other about multiple axes with a tendency to return to a predetermined rest position. Fig. 3 shows an embodiment of multiple DM magnet pairs that can be enabled and manually separated; A plurality of DM magnet pairs for securely attaching two components and for rotating the components relative to each other about multiple axes with a tendency to return to a predetermined rest position. Fig. 3 shows an embodiment of multiple DM magnet pairs that can be enabled and manually separated; A plurality of DM magnet pairs for securely attaching two components and for rotating the components relative to each other about multiple axes with a tendency to return to a predetermined rest position. Fig. 3 shows an embodiment of multiple DM magnet pairs that can be enabled and manually separated; A plurality of DM magnet pairs for securely attaching two components and for rotating the components relative to each other about multiple axes with a tendency to return to a predetermined rest position. Fig. 3 shows an embodiment of multiple DM magnet pairs that can be enabled and manually separated; Implementation of the razor with at least two coaxial, diametrically magnetized magnets to achieve a levitation effect between the two parts of the razor allowing movement in two degrees of freedom (angular and axial). showing morphology. ] Implementation of the razor with at least two coaxial, diametrically magnetized magnets to achieve a levitation effect between the two parts of the razor allowing movement in two degrees of freedom (angular and axial). showing morphology. ] Implementation of the razor with at least two coaxial, diametrically magnetized magnets to achieve a levitation effect between the two parts of the razor allowing movement in two degrees of freedom (angular and axial). showing morphology. ] Implementation of the razor with at least two coaxial, diametrically magnetized magnets to achieve a levitation effect between the two parts of the razor allowing movement in two degrees of freedom (angular and axial). showing morphology. ] Implementation of the razor with at least two coaxial, diametrically magnetized magnets to achieve a levitation effect between the two parts of the razor allowing movement in two degrees of freedom (angular and axial). showing morphology. ] Implementation of the razor with at least two coaxial, diametrically magnetized magnets to achieve a levitation effect between the two parts of the razor allowing movement in two degrees of freedom (angular and axial). showing morphology. ] Implementation of the razor with at least two coaxial, diametrically magnetized magnets to achieve a levitation effect between the two parts of the razor allowing movement in two degrees of freedom (angular and axial). showing morphology. ] Implementation of the razor with at least two coaxial, diametrically magnetized magnets to achieve a levitation effect between the two parts of the razor allowing movement in two degrees of freedom (angular and axial). showing morphology. ] Implementation of the razor with at least two coaxial, diametrically magnetized magnets to achieve a levitation effect between the two parts of the razor allowing movement in two degrees of freedom (angular and axial). showing morphology. ] Fig. 10 shows one embodiment of a razor with a mechanical pivot for aligning the blade cartridge in "body mode"; Figure 10 illustrates an embodiment of a razor that includes magnets for positioning and controlling the rotating blade cartridge within the support member; Figure 10 illustrates an embodiment of a razor that includes magnets for positioning and controlling the rotating blade cartridge within the support member; Figure 10 illustrates another embodiment of a razor that includes magnets for positioning and controlling the rotating blade cartridge within the support member; 10A-10B show additional embodiments of a resistive pivoting mechanism; Figure 10 illustrates another embodiment of a razor that includes magnets for positioning and controlling the rotating blade cartridge within the support member; 10A-10B show additional embodiments of a resistive pivoting mechanism; Figure 10 illustrates another embodiment of a razor that includes magnets for positioning and controlling the rotating blade cartridge within the support member; Fig. 4 shows yet another embodiment of a razor with a resistive swivel mechanism; Figure 10 illustrates another embodiment of a razor that includes magnets for positioning and controlling the rotating blade cartridge within the support member; Fig. 4 shows a further embodiment of a razor with a resistive swivel mechanism; Figure 10 illustrates another embodiment of a razor that includes magnets for positioning and controlling the rotating blade cartridge within the support member; Fig. 10 shows a further embodiment of a razor with a resistive swivel mechanism with only one arm magnet; Figure 10 illustrates another embodiment of a razor that includes magnets for positioning and controlling the rotating blade cartridge within the support member; Figure 131 shows an embodiment similar to Figure 130 modified to remove the arm that does not contain the magnet. Figure 10 illustrates another embodiment of a razor that includes magnets for positioning and controlling the rotating blade cartridge within the support member; Figure 131 shows an embodiment similar to Figure 130 modified to remove the arm that does not contain the magnet. Figure 10 illustrates another embodiment of a razor that includes magnets for positioning and controlling the rotating blade cartridge within the support member; 124-128, wherein the pivot axle is fixed to the blade cartridge rather than the arm, and passages/grooves/slots are provided in the arm and/or magnet so that the blade cartridge and axle can be removed from the arm. Fig. 4 shows a variant embodiment; Figure 10 illustrates another embodiment of a razor that includes magnets for positioning and controlling the rotating blade cartridge within the support member; 124-128, wherein the pivot axle is fixed to the blade cartridge rather than the arm, and passages/grooves/slots are provided in the arm and/or magnet so that the blade cartridge and axle can be removed from the arm. Fig. 4 shows a variant embodiment; Figure 10 illustrates another embodiment of a razor that includes magnets for positioning and controlling the rotating blade cartridge within the support member; Fig. 4 shows a further embodiment of a razor with a resistive swivel mechanism; Figure 10 illustrates one embodiment of a razor including nanotube sheets, strips or threads incorporated into a disposable head assembly. Fig. 3 shows an embodiment of a resistance pivot mechanism and a coupling mechanism; FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment of pivotally coupling a blade cartridge to a blade cartridge support member using multiple magnets; FIG. FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment of pivotally coupling a blade cartridge to a blade cartridge support member using multiple magnets; FIG. FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment in which the repelling magnets optionally include mating features; FIG. Fig. 10 illustrates another embodiment of a razor that can be selectively positioned in "face mode"; Fig. 10 illustrates another embodiment of a razor that can be selectively positioned in "body mode"; Fig. 10 illustrates another embodiment of a razor that can be selectively positioned in "face mode"; 1 illustrates one embodiment of a magnetic biasing system for biasing a blade cartridge to an initial starting position (ISP); 1 illustrates one embodiment of a magnetic biasing system for biasing a blade cartridge to an initial starting position (ISP); 1 illustrates one embodiment of a magnetic biasing system for biasing a blade cartridge to an initial starting position (ISP); Figure 10 illustrates another embodiment of a magnetic biasing system for biasing the blade cartridge toward the ISP;

[00121] It should be understood that the above description of the drawings is for illustrative purposes only and should therefore be read in view of the following detailed description. Not all of the features in the drawing descriptions above must be in any particular embodiment of the drawings, but may be included with or without the drawing features described above. Other features not listed in the descriptions of the drawings above may also be described, features described in the drawings/detailed description may be combined in view of other features described in other drawings, and/or or may be modified.

[00122] It can be appreciated that this disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or shown in the drawings. The invention herein is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting, and as such may be understood by those skilled in the art. be accepted.

[00123] Referring now to the figures, FIGS. 1-4 illustrate a personal manual (ie, non-powered) shaving device 10 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure that is particularly useful for shaving human hair. As shown, shaving device 10 includes a disposable head assembly 20 for shaving the hair of a user of shaving device 10 and a handle 60 for holding and manipulating shaving device 10 .

[00124] As best shown in FIG. 1A, the disposable head assembly 20 includes a blade cartridge 22 and a blade cartridge support member . As shown, the blade cartridge support member 24 includes a generally U-shaped cartridge support frame 26 . U-shaped cartridge support frame 26 includes two generally curvilinear support arms 30 . For example, support arm 30 may have a generally C-shaped or L-shaped configuration.

[00125] To facilitate pivotable attachment of the blade cartridge 22 to the blade cartridge support member 24 and subsequent use thereof, the blade cartridge 22 and the blade cartridge support member 24 are positioned so that the blade cartridge 22 is pivoted about the pivot axis PA. It may include one or more hinges or pivot assemblies 3 that allow rotation (eg, about a direction generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the handle 60). As described herein, hinge or pivot assembly 3 allows blade cartridge 22 to rotate approximately 180 degrees about pivot axis PA so that front side 140 and rear side 156 of blade cartridge 22 can be used. can be configured to allow According to one embodiment, hinge or pivot assembly 3 may be configured to allow blade cartridge 22 to rotate approximately 360 degrees about pivot axis PA.

[00126] For example, a hinge or pivot assembly 3 is located (e.g., through hole ), each of which receives a pivot pin/cylinder 34 located on an opposite side of blade cartridge 22 . Pivot pin/cylinder 34 may extend generally outwardly from the side of blade cartridge 22 . In the arrangement described above, the blade cartridges 22 are positioned between the support arms 30 and supported by each support arm 30 in a pivot connection (assembly) such that the blade cartridges 22 are rotated up to 360° about the pivot axis PA. It can be rotated at any angle, including Of course, the location of one or more of the pivot receptacles 32 and pivot pins 34 may be switched (e.g., one or more of the pivot receptacles 32 may be located on the blade cartridge 22 and the pivot pins 34 may extend outwardly from the support arm 30 of the blade cartridge support member 24).

[00127] To cushion the use of the blade cartridge 22 during shaving, one or more of the support arms 30 may include a cushioning mechanism 38. As shown in FIG. As shown, the second (distal) section 40 of each support arm 30 slides within a receptacle 42 (eg, a grooved recess) in the first (proximal) section 44 of each support arm 30. Configured. Each receptacle 42 may include a compression (eg, coil) spring or biasing device 46 at its bottom. As used herein, proximal and distal may be understood to the user of shaving device 10 .

[00128] In the manner described above, the biasing device 46 of the dampening mechanism 38 may be compressed in response to a downward force exerted on the blade cartridge 22, such compression biasing against the downward force. do. In doing so, such compression can absorb/drain the downward force to cushion the use of the blade cartridge 22 . Further, because the dampening mechanisms 38 of each support arm 30 are independent of each other, the dampening mechanisms 38 may allow each lateral end of the blade cartridge 22 to move and/or dampen independently. It should be appreciated that in other embodiments of shaving device 10 , blade cartridge support member 24 may not include cushioning mechanism 38 .

[00129] Head assembly 20 may be selectively removably connectable to handle 60 by a user. As can be appreciated, any mechanism for selectively coupling the blade cartridge support member 24 to the handle 60 may be used. For example, the blade cartridge support member 24 may include a support hub 50 that may be centrally located between the two support arms 30 . Support hub 50 includes a mechanical connecting element 52 that mechanically connects blade cartridge support member 24 to mechanical connecting element 64 on elongate shaft 62 of handle 60 .

[00130] For example, as shown by FIGS. It includes a hollow (tubular) cylindrical shank 54 . To provide a positive mechanical connection, cylindrical shank 54 includes a plurality of deformable (cantilevered and/or spring-loaded) engagement tabs 56 that engage within engagement apertures 68 . Deformable (cantilevered and/or spring-loaded) engagement tabs 56 are configured, in one embodiment, to manually disengage each separate engagement tab when actuation button 100 is pressed and/or with a user's hand/fingers. may be configured to come out of engagement with the engagement aperture 68 by pushing with the .

[00131] When the engagement tabs 56 are engaged within the engagement openings 68, the head assembly 20 and the handle 60 are generally prevented from separating from each other. Thereafter (e.g., after the useful life of blade cartridge 22), head assembly 20 and handle 60 may press engagement tabs 56 inwardly (e.g., a button located on handle 60 and/or disposable head assembly 20). and/or by manually pressing each engagement tab with the user's hand/fingers) and withdrawing the cylindrical shank 54 of the blade cartridge support member 24 from the cylindrical recess 66 of the handle 60. can be separated from each other by The used head assembly 20 /blade cartridge 22 can then be replaced with a new head assembly 20 /blade cartridge 22 . Thus, as can be appreciated, the head assembly 20 is selectively removably connectable to the handle 60 by the user.

[00132] Although the shank 54 and recess 66 are shown as part of the blade cartridge support member 24 and handle 60, respectively, it should be appreciated that the arrangement of the shank 54 and recess 66 may be switched (e.g., the shank 54 and recess 66 may be part of handle 60 and blade cartridge support member 24, respectively, see FIG. 5, for example). Additionally, although deformable (cantilevered and/or spring-loaded) engagement tabs 56 and engagement openings 68 are shown as part of shank 54 and recesses 66, respectively, it should be appreciated that modifications Possible (cantilevered and/or spring-loaded) engagement tabs 56 and engagement openings 68 arrangements may be switched (e.g., deformable (cantilevered and/or spring-loaded) engagement tabs 56 and engagement openings 68 may be switched). Mating opening 68 may be part of recess 66 and shank 54, respectively). Again, it should be appreciated that the connecting element 52 is not limited to the arrangements shown and/or described herein, unless specifically stated to the contrary, and the user may Any connecting element 52 that allows for selective releasable coupling of 20 to handle 60 may be used.

[00133] The handle 60 (FIGS. 1A-1C) is configured such that the orientation of the head assembly 20 (eg, the longitudinal axis H of the head assembly 20) relative to the handle 60 (eg, the longitudinal axis L of the handle 60) is determined by the user. May optionally include one or more hinges 74 configured to allow head assembly 20 to be selectively rotated relative to a portion of handle 60 so that it may be adjusted. . Hinge 74 can be positioned substantially anywhere along the length of handle 60, but is positioned proximate the first (proximal) region of handle 60 as schematically shown. good too.

[00134] Referring to FIG. 1A, the cutting edge axis CE of one or more cutting edges 151 of the razor blades 142 of the head assembly 20 is substantially perpendicular (eg, substantially orthogonal) to the longitudinal axis L of the handle 60. /90 degrees). As described herein (e.g., as schematically illustrated in FIGS. 1B and 1C), hinge 74 is the cutting edge axis of one or more cutting edges 151 of razor blade 142 of head assembly 20. A user may move head assembly 20 to the pivot point of handle 60 so that CE is aligned with longitudinal axis L of handle 60 at an angle α other than perpendicular/perpendicular/90 degrees (see, for example, FIG. 1C). can be configured to allow selective rotation about . For example, FIG. 1B schematically illustrates that the cutting edge axis CE of one or more cutting edges 151 of the razor blades 142 of the head assembly 20 is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the handle 60, while , FIG. 1C shows that the cutting edge axis CE of one or more cutting edges 151 of the razor blades 142 of the head assembly 20 is at an angle α of less than 90 degrees, eg, 0-90, with respect to the longitudinal axis L of the handle 60 . It schematically shows that it is less than

[00135] One embodiment of a hinge 74 consistent with the present disclosure is illustrated schematically in FIGS. Hinge 74 passes through receptacles 80, 82 of overlapping joints 84, 86 (see FIG. 2) of first (proximal) shaft portion 75 and second (distal) shaft portion 77 of handle 60. may include a hinge pin 76 extending through. In addition to allowing the first (proximal) elongated shaft section 75 and the second (distal) elongated shaft section 77 to rotate with respect to each other, the hinge pin 76 may be positioned at the first ( The proximal) shaft portion 75 and the second (distal) shaft portion 77 may be prevented from separating from each other. Hinge 74 may include a locking mechanism (e.g., without limitation, locking) configured to allow a user to substantially lock or secure the relative position of head assembly 20 to handle 60 . pawl, ratchet mechanism, etc.) may optionally be included.

[00136] It will be appreciated that the hinge 74 is such that the cutting edge axis CE of one or more of the cutting edges 151 of the razor blades 142 of the head assembly 20 is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the handle 60/ It may also be configured to allow the user to selectively rotate the head assembly 20 about the pivot point of the handle 60 so that it remains vertical/90 degrees. For example, the arrangement of hinge pin 76 and receptacles 80, 82 may be rotated approximately 90 degrees about longitudinal axis L of handle 60 from the arrangement shown in FIGS. 1A-1C.

[00137] The handle 60 may optionally also include an elongated shaft 62. As shown in FIG. Elongated shaft 62 is a telescoping handle that includes first and at least second shaft sections 70, 72 configured to telescopically slide relative to each other such that the overall length of handle 60 can be adjusted by a user. An extension 78 is optionally included. It is understood that one or more of shaft sections 70, 72 may optionally include one or more hinges 74 as described herein. It is also understood that in other embodiments of shaving device 10, elongate shaft 62 may be formed from a single section and may not include hinge 74, and telescoping handle extension 78 may be eliminated. should.

[00138] Referring to FIGS. 3-5, the shaving device 10 (eg, the handle 60) is provided with a single handle for controlling rotation of the blade cartridge 22 about the pivot axis PA in a direction relative to the blade cartridge support member 24. One or more blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanisms 90 may optionally be included. Pivot biasing mechanism 90 may include one or more elongated cylindrical rods 92 that slide within cylindrical recesses 94 of handle 60 . Elongated cylindrical rod 92 may be biased generally in the direction of arrow C (ie, generally toward blade cartridge 22 as shown schematically in FIGS. 3 and 5). For example, the handle 60 has a cylindrical recess 94 (see FIG. 1) having one or more biasing devices (eg, springs, etc.) configured to bias the elongated cylindrical rod 92 generally in the direction of arrow C. 6A and 6B). In one embodiment, a first biasing device 96 (eg, a coil spring, etc.) may be positioned within the cylindrical recess 94 below the cylindrical rod 92, and optionally a second biasing device 98. (eg, a coil spring, etc.) may also be positioned within the cylindrical recess 94 below the first biasing device 96 . The second biasing device 98 may have a greater spring (force) constant than the first biasing device 96 .

[00139] As can be appreciated, the blade cartridge 22 may pivot about the pivot axis PA in rotational directions R1 and R2 as the blade cartridge 22 follows the contours of the skin surface being shaved during use of the shaving device 10. . During such time, the distal end (e.g., the spherical distal end) of the cylindrical rod 92 is exposed to the rear side 156 of the blade cartridge 22 (i.e., the surface of the blade cartridge 22 generally opposite the surface used during shaving). and urges the blade cartridge 22 to pivot about the pivot axis PA. As described herein, blade cartridge 22 may optionally include razor blades 142 on both front side 140 and back side 156 . In such cases, the distal end of rod 92 may be configured to contact blade cartridge 22 at area 163 other than where razor blade 142 is located.

[00140] According to one embodiment (FIGS. 3 and 4), the rod 92 may contact the blade cartridge 22 at a location above the pivot axis PA, and the pivot biasing mechanism 90 causes the blade cartridge 22 to oppose. It may be biased in a direction (eg, in direction R2). Alternatively, rod 92 may contact blade cartridge 22 at a location below pivot axis PA as shown schematically in FIG. May be energized. Thus, depending on where the bias rod 92 contacts the blade cartridge (i.e. above the pivot axis PA in FIGS. 3-4 or below the pivot axis PA in FIG. 5), the pivot bias mechanism 90 will Cartridge 22 can be biased generally in direction R2 (in FIGS. 3-4) or direction R1 (in FIG. 5) such that springs 96, 98 are in their lowest position at a particular/predetermined point (degrees of rotation). , may substantially prevent rotation of the blade cartridge 22 in the opposite direction (eg, R1 in FIGS. 3-4 or R2 in FIG. 5).

[00141] Further, as described in more detail herein, in at least one embodiment, the blade cartridge 22 allows the user to select either the front or rear faces 140, 156 of the blade cartridge 22. As such, it can be configured to rotate about 180 degrees or more about pivot axis PA. For example, the blade cartridge 22 may include shaving blades on both its front side 140 and rear side 156 (see, eg, FIG. 5 or FIG. 8). Alternatively (or in addition), the blade cartridge 22 may include a shaving (razor) blade on the front side 140 and a mirror on the back side 156 .

[00142] According to one embodiment, the pivot biasing mechanism 90 may optionally include an actuation button 100. As shown in FIG. The actuation button 100 may be coupled to the rod 92, and as shown schematically in FIG. 4, the rod 92 is positioned in a generally arrowed direction when the blade cartridge 22 is rotated approximately 180 degrees (or more) about the pivot axis PA. It may be configured to retract out of the path of the blade cartridge in the direction opposite to C (see, eg, FIGS. 3 and 5). For example, the actuation button 100 may move within a guide track 102 (FIGS. 6A and 6B) provided by an elongated slot formed in the handle 60. FIG. A user may bias actuation button 100 in the direction generally opposite arrow C to retract rod 92 with sufficient force to compress biasing devices 96, 98, thereby causing blade cartridge 22 to retract. , for example, about 180 degrees ( (above) allows the cylindrical rod 92 to be retracted far enough (eg, in a generally opposite direction of arrow C and generally away from the blade cartridge 22) so that it can be rotated. It will be appreciated that although the pivot biasing mechanism 90 is shown external to the handle 60 in FIGS. 6A and 6B, a portion of the pivot biasing mechanism 90 is shown schematically herein. may be located within the interior region of the handle 60 as shown.

[00143] According to another embodiment, the disposable head assembly 20 controls the range of rotation of the blade cartridge 22 relative to the handle 60 and/or the blade cartridge support member 24 using either the front or rear sides 140,156. One or more blade cartridge rotation limiters 35 configured to generally limit may optionally be included. The blade cartridge rotation limiter 35 controls the blade cartridge 22 about the pivot axis PA in the rotational direction R2 (in FIGS. 3-4) or in the rotational direction R1 (in FIG. 5) at a specific/predetermined point (degree of rotation). ) to substantially prevent pivoting beyond the Accordingly, the blade cartridge rotation limiter 35 may be configured to substantially prevent rotation beyond a predetermined point.

[00144] Referring to FIG. 3, one embodiment of a blade cartridge rotation limiter 35 consistent with the present disclosure is schematically illustrated. The blade cartridge rotation limiter 35 may include a resilient, deformable stop member or pawl 36 configured to contact the opposite side of the blade cartridge 22 being used. For example, the deformable pawl 36 may be positioned on the blade cartridge 22 at a location below the pivot axis PA when the blade cartridge 22 pivots in the rotational direction R2 about the pivot axis PA beyond a certain/predetermined point (degree of rotation). Edge regions can be contacted. Although the deformable pawl 36 is shown extending outwardly from the support hub 50 and contacting a portion of the blade cartridge 22, it should be appreciated that this arrangement could be reversed. For example, deformable pawl 36 may be configured to extend outwardly from blade cartridge 22 to contact a portion of support hub 50 .

[00145] To rotate the blade cartridge 22 more than approximately 180 degrees about the pivot axis PA, the pin 92 may be retracted as shown schematically in FIG. may be As the blade cartridge 22 is rotated in direction R1, the blade cartridge 22 contacts the pawl 36. As shown in FIG. Pawls 36 (which may be formed from a polymer composition, such as an elastomer or sheet metal) are downwardly directed (eg, hub 50 and/or hub 50 of support frame 26) to allow blade cartridge 22 to continue to rotate in direction R1. or generally toward the support arm 30). Once the blade cartridge 22 passes the pawl/elastic deformable stop member 36, the stop member 36 returns to its initial position and prevents the blade cartridge 22 from rotating back in the direction of rotation R2. The resilient, deformable stop member 36 permits rotation of the blade cartridge 22 in one direction, but inhibits rotation of the blade cartridge 22 in the opposite direction. Again (as described above), although the pawl 36 is shown extending from the support frame 26, the pawl 36 could extend from the blade cartridge 22, with the blade cartridge 22 aligned with the pivot axis PA. can be elastically deformed by rotating around .

[00146] Referring again to Figures 5 and 7, another embodiment of a blade cartridge rotation limiter 35 consistent with the present disclosure is schematically illustrated. The blade cartridge rotation limiter 35 may include a resilient, deformable stop member or pawl 36 configured to contact one or more of the plurality of teeth 37 . 5 and 7, pawl 36 extends generally radially outwardly from pivot pin 34 and tooth 37 extends generally radially inwardly from pivot receptacle 32; It will be appreciated that the arrangement of pawls 36 and teeth 37 can be switched, with pawls 36 extending generally radially inward from pivot receptacle 32 and teeth 37 extending generally radially from pivot pin 34 . direction outward.

[00147] As best shown in FIG. 7, rotation of pivot pin 34 about pivot axis PA in a first direction (eg, direction R2 in the illustrated embodiment) causes pawl 36 to move to the first position. can be brought into contact with a gently sloping tapered, curved, convex, concave and/or arcuate portion (e.g., first portion) 39 of tooth 37a, thereby moving pawl 36 to first tooth 37a. (e.g., generally radially inward in the illustrated embodiment) and allow the pivot pin 34 to continue to rotate about the pivot axis PA in the first direction. do. Conversely, rotation of pivot pin 34 about pivot axis PA in a second direction (e.g., direction R1 in the illustrated embodiment) causes pawl 36 to move to second tooth 37b (e.g., adjacent tooth). ), thereby causing the pawl 36 to engage the second portion 41 of the tooth 37b. , the pivot pin 34 is substantially prevented from rotating about the pivot axis PA and further in the second direction beyond a predetermined point defined by the second tooth 37b. According to one embodiment, pivot pin 34 is substantially free to rotate about pivot axis PA within area 43 defined by two adjacent teeth (eg, teeth 37a, 37b). Region 43 can also be considered a recess.

[00148] Of course, in any of the embodiments described herein, the spacing between teeth may be greater and/or less than shown in the figures, which may Allows greater and/or lesser degrees of rotation for .

[00149] The shaving razor 10 may optionally include a resistance swivel mechanism. The resistive pivot mechanism allows the user to rotate the blade cartridge 22 about pivot axis PA to select one of a plurality of sides/faces and to allow the blade cartridge 22 to follow the user's skin contours to the razor. can be configured to allow rotation within a predetermined range of rotation while in a selected blade/face position during normal use of the . According to one embodiment, the resistive pivot mechanism includes a blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 (e.g., without limitation, biasing pin 92) and/or a blade cartridge rotation limiter 35 (e.g., without limitation). , a pawl 36 and a plurality of teeth 37)). Biasing pin 92 biases blade cartridge 22 in a second direction (eg, in direction R1 in the illustrated embodiment) such that pawl 36 abuts substantially vertical portion 41 of tooth 37b, thereby It may be configured to restrict rotation of the blade cartridge 22 in a second direction (eg, R1). The biasing pin 92 is pushed beyond a predetermined point when the blade cartridge 22 is about the pivot axis PA, except when the biasing pin 92 moves off the blade cartridge 22 as described herein. Rotation in a first direction (eg, direction R2) is also substantially prevented.

[00150] Referring to Figures 5 and 7, a shaving force Fsu may be applied by a user in a first direction (e.g., R2), which forces the blade cartridge 22 (and thus the pivot pin/cylinder 34) to Rotation in a first direction (eg, R2) against the spring force of biasing pin 92 moves pawl 36 away from substantially vertical portion 41 of tooth 37b. When the force Fsu is reduced/removed, the force of the biasing pin 92 (e.g. the resisting force Fres) moves the pivot pin/cylinder 34 back toward the initial start position (e.g. abuts/contacts the substantially vertical portion 41 of 37b).

[00151] To rotate the blade cartridge 22 to select a different face (e.g., either face 140 or face 156), the user retracts the bias pin 92 to move the blade as described herein. can be moved out of the path of the cartridge 22 and then the blade cartridge 22 can be rotated in a first direction (e.g., direction R2), thereby elastically deforming the pawl 36 away from the teeth 37a; and allows the pivot pin 34 to continue to rotate about the pivot axis PA in the first direction (eg, R2). When the user releases bias pin 92 , bias pin 92 biases blade cartridge 22 in a second direction (eg, R 1 ) until pawl 36 contacts generally vertical portion 41 of tooth 37 . Rotation of the blade cartridge 22 about the pivot axis PA is therefore substantially limited to the area between the two teeth 37 adjacent the pawl 36 .

[00152] Again, it will be appreciated that the arrangement of pawl 36 and teeth 37 relative to pivot pin 34 and receptacle 32 may be switched, resulting in the arrangement of teeth 37 (i.e., first and second ) and the inclination of the pawl 36 can be switched. Additionally, the arrangement of teeth 37 (i.e., the orientation of first and second portions 39, 41) and the inclination of pawl 36 can be determined in which direction (e.g., R1 or R2) bias pin 92 is positioned on the blade cartridge. 22 is configured to energize. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 7, bias pin 92 is configured to bias blade cartridge 22 in a second direction (eg, direction R1). However, in other embodiments described herein (see, eg, FIGS. 3 and 8), bias pin 92 biases blade cartridge 22 in a first direction (eg, direction R2). The orientation of the first and second portions 39, 41 of the tooth 37 and the inclination of the pawl 36 can be switched from that shown in FIGS.

[00153] For example, referring to FIG. 8, rotation of pivot pin 34 about pivot axis PA in a first direction (eg, in direction R2 in the illustrated embodiment) causes pawl 36 to move to the first position. A steep, upright, and/or substantially vertical portion (e.g., second portion) 41 of tooth 37a can be contacted thereby causing pawl 36 to move toward second portion 41 of first tooth 37a. and substantially prevent further rotation of pivot pin 34 in a first direction (eg, R2) about pivot axis PA beyond a predetermined point defined by first tooth 37a. Conversely, rotation of pivot pin 34 about pivot axis PA in a second direction (e.g., direction R1 in the illustrated embodiment) causes pawl 36 to move into second tooth 37b (e.g., adjacent tooth). gently sloping tapered, curved, convex, concave, and/or arcuate portion (e.g., first portion) 39 of the tooth 39, thereby disengaging pawl 36 from second tooth 37b. It is elastically deformed (eg, deformed generally radially inward in the illustrated embodiment) to allow continued rotation of pivot pin 34 about pivot axis PA in a second direction. According to one embodiment, pivot pin 34 is substantially free to rotate about pivot axis PA within area 43 defined by two adjacent teeth (eg, teeth 37a, 37b).

[00154] The biasing pin 92 is arranged to move the blade cartridge 22 such that the pawl 36 contacts the generally vertical portion 41 of the tooth 37a, thereby restricting rotation of the blade cartridge 22 in a first direction (eg, R2). in a first direction (eg, in direction R2 in the illustrated embodiment). As described herein, the biasing pin 92 does not move beyond a predetermined point when the blade cartridge 22 is about the pivot axis PA, except when the biasing pin 92 moves out of the blade cartridge 22 . Rotation in the second direction (for example, direction R1) can also be substantially prevented.

[00155] During use of the razor 10, a shaving force Fsu can be applied by the user in a second direction (e.g., Rl), which forces the blade cartridge 22 (and thus the pivot pin/cylinder 34) against the spring of the biasing pin 92. Rotation in a second direction (eg, R1) against the force moves pawl 36 away from substantially vertical portion 41 of tooth 37a. As the force Fsu is reduced/removed, the force of the biasing pin 92 (e.g. the resisting force Fres of the biasing pin 92) moves the pivot pin/cylinder 34 back towards the initial starting position (e.g. , pawl 36 abuts/contacts substantially vertical portion 41 of tooth 37a).

[00156] To rotate the blade cartridge 22 to select a different face (e.g., either face 140 or face 156), the user retracts the bias pin 92 to rotate the blade as described herein. The path of the cartridge 22 can be removed (see, eg, FIG. 4), and the blade cartridge 22 can then be rotated in a second direction (eg, direction R1) (FIG. 8), thereby causing the pawl 36 to rotate. out of tooth 37b, allowing pivot pin 34 to continue to rotate about pivot axis PA in a second direction (eg, R1). When the user releases biasing pin 92 , biasing pin 92 biases blade cartridge 22 in a first direction (eg, R 2 ) until pawl 36 contacts substantially vertical portion 41 of tooth 37 . Rotation of the blade cartridge 22 about the pivot axis PA is therefore substantially limited to the area between the two teeth 37 adjacent the pawl 36 .

[00157] Referring now to Figures 9 and 10, another embodiment of a resistive pivot mechanism is schematically illustrated. The resisting pivot mechanism may be a blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 (e.g., without limitation, bias pin 92) and/or a blade cartridge rotation limiter 35 (e.g., without limitation, pawl/coiled pawl). 36 and a plurality of teeth 37). In the illustrated embodiment, a resiliently deformable coiled pawl 36 extends generally radially outwardly from pivot pin 34 and receptacles 32 extend generally radially inwardly toward pivot pin 34. teeth 37 of the . However, it should be appreciated that the arrangement of coiled pawl 36 and teeth 37 relative to pivot pin 34 and receptacle 32 could be switched, and coiled pawl 36 could extend generally radially inward from receptacle 32 . , the teeth 37 may extend generally radially outwardly from the pivot pin 34 .

[00158] The attachment is such that the distal end of pawl 36 contacts substantially vertical portion 41 of tooth 37a (Fig. 10), thereby limiting rotation of blade cartridge 22 in the second direction (e.g., R1). The bias pin 92 may be configured to bias the blade cartridge 22 in a second direction (eg, in direction R1 in the illustrated embodiment). The biasing pin 92 is pushed beyond a predetermined point when the blade cartridge 22 is about the pivot axis PA, except when the biasing pin 92 moves off the blade cartridge 22 as described herein. Rotation in one direction (eg, direction R2) may also be substantially prevented.

[00159] During use of razor 10, a shaving force Fsu may be applied by the user in a second direction (eg, R1), which forces blade cartridge 22 (and thus pivot pin/cylinder 34) onto coiled pawl 36. Rotate in a second direction (eg, R1) against the spring force. When the force Fsu is reduced/removed, the force of the coiled pawl 36 (e.g. coil resistive force Fres) moves the pivot pin/cylinder 34 back towards the initial start position (e.g. bias pin 92 and coil pawl 36 forces are substantially equal).

[00160] The user may also apply the shaving force Fsu in a first direction (eg, R2), causing the blade cartridge 22 (and thus the pivot pin/cylinder 34) to move in the first direction against the spring force of the biasing pin 92. Rotation in a direction (eg, R2) may optionally move pawl 36 away from substantially vertical portion 41 of tooth 37a. As the force Fsu is reduced/removed, the force of the bias pin 92 (e.g., the resisting force Fres) moves the pivot pin/cylinder 34 back toward the initial starting position (e.g., the force pin 92 and the coil pawl 36 are substantially equal).

[00161] To rotate the blade cartridge 22 to select a different face (e.g., either face 140 or face 156), the user retracts the bias pin 92 to rotate the blade as described herein. The path of the cartridge 22 can be removed (see, e.g., FIG. 4) and the blade cartridge 22 can then be rotated in a second direction (e.g., direction R1), thereby causing the coiled pawl 36 to move toward the teeth. Pivot pin 34 is elastically deformed out of 37a, allowing continued rotation in a second direction (eg, R1) about pivot axis PA. When the biasing pin 92 is released by the user, the biasing pin 92 moves the blade cartridge 22 in the second direction (eg, R1) until the distal end of the coiled pawl 36 contacts the substantially vertical portion 41 of the tooth 37. energize. Rotation of the blade cartridge 22 about the pivot axis PA is therefore substantially confined to the area between the two teeth 37 adjacent the pawl 36 (ie controlled by position).

[00162] Although the bias pin 92 and coil pawl 36 are shown in FIGS. 22 in direction R2, coil pawl 36 may be configured to bias blade cartridge 22 in direction R1), and the orientation of teeth 37 may also be switched. Those skilled in the art will understand such modifications in light of this disclosure.

[00163] Referring now to Figures 11 and 12, yet another embodiment of a resistive pivot mechanism is schematically illustrated. The resistive pivot mechanism may include a blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 and a blade cartridge rotation limiter 35 . A blade/face position selected during normal use of the razor to select one of a plurality of sides/faces and for the blade cartridge 22 to follow the user's skin contours, as described herein. In order to allow rotation within a predetermined range of rotation while at the same time, the resistance pivot mechanism allows the user to rotate the blade cartridge 22 (only the pivot pin/cylinder 34 is shown for clarity) to the It is configured to allow rotation about pivot axis PA.

[00164] In the illustrated embodiment, the blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 and the blade cartridge rotation limiter 35 have a first end coupled to the arm 30 and a biased pivot cylinder 202 positioned about the pivot axis PA. and a second end configured to bias in a first direction (eg, rotational direction R2) as . A biased pivot cylinder 202 includes a pawl 204 . A pawl or resilient pawl 204 may extend generally radially outward from the biased pivot cylinder 202 . Biasing device 200 is positioned such that pawl 204 of biased pivot cylinder 202 engages first tooth 206A (which may be configured to extend generally radially inwardly from pivot pin/cylinder 34). , can bias the biased pivot cylinder 202 in a first direction (e.g., R2), thereby biasing the pivot pin/cylinder 34 in a first direction (e.g., R2) ( one or more pivot cylinder stop members 207 , 209 (which may be configured to extend generally radially outwardly from the pin/cylinder 34 ) to the one or more arm stop members 208 , 210 , respectively, of arm 30 ; match. While the engagement of pivot cylinder stop members 207, 209 with arm stop members 208, 210 substantially restricts rotation of pivot pin/cylinder 34 (and thus blade cartridge 22) in a first direction (eg, R2), Blade cartridge 22 is in a first blade plane position (e.g., a position of blade cartridge 22 relative to handle 60 that corresponds to a first plane of blade cartridge 22 that is operable for use by a user of razor 10). set. For example, the engagement of the pivot cylinder stop members 207, 209 with the arm stop members 208, 210 approximately sets the initial starting position of the blade cartridge 22 while setting at the first blade position.

[00165] During use of the razor 10, a shaving force Fsu is applied by the user in a second direction (eg, R1), which causes the blade cartridge 22 (and thus the pivot pin/cylinder 34) to resist the spring force of the biasing device 200. and rotate in a second direction (eg, R1) to move pivot cylinder stops 207, 209 away from arm stops 208, 210, respectively. When the force Fsu is reduced/removed, the force of the biasing device 200 (e.g., the resisting force Fres) moves the pivot pin/cylinder 34 back toward the initial starting position (as shown in FIG. 11). ).

[00166] To rotate the blade cartridge 22 to another blade face position (eg, a second or third blade face position corresponding to one of the other faces of the blade cartridge 22), the user applies a rotational force Fr to the blade. Cartridge 22 is applied in a first direction (e.g., R2), thereby moving pivot cylinder stop members 207, 209, respectively, until pivot cylinder stop members 207, 209 again contact arm stop members 208, 210, respectively. Deform on stop members 208 , 210 . Additionally, rotational force Fr causes biased pivot cylinder 202 to pivot about pivot axis PA until pawl 204 deforms on tooth 206B and pawl 204 contacts a substantially vertical/straight portion of tooth 206B. Rotate slightly as Accordingly, the blade cartridge 22 can be rotated approximately 180 degrees so that the opposite side of the blade cartridge 22 can be used by the user.

[00167] It will be appreciated that while FIGS. 11-12 show a resistive pivot mechanism configured to allow a user to select between two faces of the blade cartridge 22, the resistive pivot mechanism , may be configured to allow a user to select between three or more faces of the blade cartridge 22 . In particular, the support arm 30 may contact one or more of the arm stop members 208, 210 where the pivoting cylinder stop members 207, 209 correspond to first, second, and at least third initial starting positions. may include stop members 208, 210 spaced apart. The first, second, and at least third initial starting positions correspond to the first, second, and at least third faces of the blade cartridge 22, respectively. Additionally (or alternatively), it should be appreciated that the rotational force Fr may cause the arm stops 208, 210 to move until the pivot cylinder stops 207, 209 again contact the arm stops 208, 210, respectively. It can be deformed on the pivot cylinder stop members 207, 209 respectively. Accordingly, either arm stop members 208, 210 and/or pivot cylinder stop members 207, 209 may be elastically deformable. In addition, it should be appreciated that the pivot pin/cylinder 34 and/or the biased pivot cylinder 202 may be positioned between the pivot pin/cylinder 34 and/or the biased pivot cylinder 202 to each other and/or receptacles on the support arm 30. It may include a bearing surface (not shown for clarity) configured to align against.

[00168] Referring to Figures 13 and 14, a further embodiment of a resistive pivot mechanism is schematically illustrated. The resistive pivot mechanism allows the user to rotate the blade cartridge 22 (only pivot pin/cylinder 34 is shown for clarity) about pivot axis PA to select one of a plurality of sides/faces. Rotate and allow the blade cartridge 22 to rotate within a predetermined range of rotation while in a selected blade/face position during normal use of the razor to follow the skin contours of the user. to

[00169] The resistive pivot mechanism may include at least one pawl or resilient pawl 220 configured to extend generally radially inward from the receptacle 32 of the arm 30. As shown in FIG. Pivot pin/cylinder 34 may include a plurality of recesses 222 configured to receive distal ends 224 of pawls 220 . According to one embodiment, distal end 224 of pawl 220 may have a shape that generally corresponds to a portion of recess 222A to help retain pawl 220 against recess 222A. For example, recess 222A may include portion 226 having a generally hemispherical shape with a diameter approximately equal to distal end 224, while distal end 224 may have a substantially spherical shape. The locations of the recesses 222 may each correspond to one of the multiple faces of the blade cartridge 22 . Thus, although only two recesses 222A, 222B are shown, it can be appreciated that the pivot pin/cylinder 34 may include more than two recesses 222 corresponding to more than two faces of the blade cartridge 20. .

[00170] Of course, in any of the embodiments described herein, the length of the pawls and/or the depth and/or width of the recesses may be greater than shown in the figures and /or may be smaller, which allows greater and/or lesser degrees of rotation within a given range of rotation for the cartridge head.

[00171] As can be appreciated, the length and flexibility/rigidity of the pawl in combination with the design of the recess will affect the degree of rotation of the blade cartridge relative to the initial start position corresponding to the selected plane (e.g., a predetermined range of rotation). ) can be determined.

[00172] Referring to FIG. 15, a variation of the resistance pivot mechanism of FIGS. 13 and 14 is schematically shown. The resistive pivot mechanism of FIG. 15 is similar to that of FIGS. The recesses 222 are configured to engage selected ones of the plurality of recesses 222 .

[00173] In practice (FIGS. 13-15), the user rotates the blade cartridge 22 (and thus the pivot pin/cylinder 34) so that the desired face of the blade cartridge 22 is in the proper position relative to the handle 60. be able to. In this oriented position, distal end 224 of pawl 220 may be received in recess 222A (eg, without limitation, retaining portion 226). This arrangement can be defined as the initial starting position. When the shaving force Fsu is applied to the blade cartridge 20 (and thus the pivot pin/cylinder 34), the pawl 220 pushes against the blade cartridge 22 urging the blade cartridge 22 in the opposite direction of the shaving force Fsu toward a generally initial starting position. Add resisting force Fres. Accordingly, the blade cartridge 22 can rotate about the pivot axis PA within a certain range with respect to the initial starting position.

[00174] The degree to which the blade cartridge 22 may rotate about the pivot axis PA relative to the initial starting position may depend on the intended use. For example, the blade cartridge 22 may rotate about the pivot axis PA from about 5 degrees to about 90 degrees and any range therein relative to the initial starting position. According to another embodiment, the blade cartridge 22 may rotate about the pivot axis PA from an initial starting position within a range of approximately 5 degrees to 60 degrees and any range therein. According to yet another embodiment, the blade cartridge 22 may rotate about the pivot axis PA from about 5 degrees to about 25 degrees and any range therein relative to the initial starting position. According to still further embodiments, the blade cartridge 22 may rotate about the pivot axis PA from about 5 degrees to about 15 degrees and any range therein relative to the initial starting position.

[00175] To rotate the blade cartridge 22 to another blade face position (eg, a second or third blade face position corresponding to one of the other faces of the blade cartridge 22), the user applies a rotational force Fr to the blade. Cartridge 22 is urged in a first direction (eg, R1 or R2), thereby pivoting pivot pin/cylinder 34 (FIGS. 13-15) in the first direction until pawl 220 is elastically deformed out of initial recess 222A. Rotate in one direction (eg, R1 or R2). Pivot pin/cylinder 34 and/or arm 30 may include one or more grooves, slots, cavities, etc. 228 (FIGS. 14 and 15) into which pawl 220 may enter as pivot pin/cylinder 34 rotates about pivot axis PA. can optionally be included. The user continues to rotate blade cartridge 22 until the face of blade cartridge 22 is at the desired location relative to handle 60 . Once in the desired location, pawl 220 (eg, distal end 224 of pawl 220) is received in corresponding recess 222B.

[00176] As can be appreciated, one or more of the recesses 222 (FIGS. 13-15) can have a generally concave configuration. More specifically, sides 230A, 230B of recess 222 may slope or taper generally downwardly and/or inwardly toward pivot axis PA such that pawl 220 enters recess 222. Provides a smoother transition. Alternatively, although not shown, one or more of the recesses 222 (FIGS. 13-15) may have a generally vertical, upright, and/or convex configuration, thereby allowing the pawls 220 to out of recess 222 . This configuration may allow the pawl 220 to be less rigid while ensuring that the pawl 220 remains positioned within the recess 222 .

[00177] Referring now to FIG. 16A, another embodiment of a resistive pivot mechanism is schematically illustrated. The resistive pivot mechanism may be similar to that of FIGS. 13 and 14, but one or more of the recesses 222 (formed in the pivot pin/cylinder 34) include one or more elastically deformable A flap 250 can be included and the resilient pawl 220 can optionally include a spring 254 . FIG. 16B is similar to FIG. 16A, but pawl 220 includes spring 254 extending from receptacle 32 of arm 30 and terminating at distal end 224 . Distal end 224 of pawl 220 may have a shape that generally corresponds to a portion of recess 222A to help retain pawl 220 against recess 222A. For example, distal end 224 may have a generally spherical and/or elliptical shape, while recess 222A may include a portion 226 having a substantially hemispherical and/or elliptical shape with a diameter approximately equal to distal end 224. . 17A and 17B are similar to FIGS. 16A and 16B, respectively, but are based on the resistive pivot mechanism of FIG. 15 with recesses 222 formed in support arm 30 and resilient pawl 220 extending from pivot pin/cylinder 34. .

[00178] Referring to FIGS. 16A-17B, a resiliently deformable flap 250 extends across at least a portion of the opening of recess 222. As shown in FIG. For example, elastically deformable flap 250 may extend from a portion of recess 222 and/or a portion of the area surrounding recess 222 . First and second elastically deformable flaps 250 a , 250 b may extend partially across the opening of recess 222 and define deformable opening 252 . Elastically deformable flaps 250 a , 250 b are configured to elastically deform such that distal end 224 of pawl 220 may pass through deformable opening 252 and be at least partially received in recess 222 . obtain. A resiliently deformable flap 250 may help retain distal end 224 of pawl 220 in recess 222 .

[00179] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the shaft of the resilient pawl 220 may optionally include a spring 254 such as a torsion spring, such as, but not limited to, a coil spring. Spring 254 may be configured to engage recess 222 and/or resiliently deformable flap 250 to increase the predetermined rotational range within which blade cartridge 22 rotates upon application of a rotational force. can make it possible to

[00180] For example, a resiliently deformable flap 250 may serve to retain the distal end 224 of the resilient pawl 220, which may engage a spring 254 as well. When the user applies sufficient rotational force Fr to the blade cartridge 22, the spring 254 is able to "maximize" and pull the resilient pawl 220 through the resiliently deformable flap 250, as described herein. As shown, the blade cartridge 22 can be rotated to select a new face.

[00181] Referring now to Figures 18-20, a still further embodiment of a resistive pivot mechanism is schematically illustrated. In particular, FIG. 18 schematically illustrates one embodiment of a disposable head assembly 20 consistent with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 19 is a cross-section along line 19-19 of FIG. 20 is a cross-section along line 20--20 in FIG. It should be understood that the disposable head assembly 20 shown in FIG. 18 is provided for illustrative purposes only and that a resistive pivot mechanism may be used with any razor 10 and/or disposable head assembly 20 described herein. obtain.

[00182] Referring to Figures 19 and 20, the resistive pivot mechanism can be similar to Figures 13-17B, but one or more recesses 322 are formed in the blade cartridge 22 and one or more elastic A deformable pawl 320 is formed on a portion of arm 30 that is recessed (eg, countersunk) within a portion (eg, cavity or recess) 310 of blade cartridge 22 . As described herein, pawl 320 may include any of the pawl configurations described herein. Recesses 322 (which may be formed within cavity 310) may include any recess configuration described herein and may generally correspond to one or more of the faces (e.g., 140, 156, etc.) of blade cartridge 22. can be arranged to Pawl 320 may be engaged within recess 322 to allow blade cartridge 22 to move within a predetermined rotational range. For example, pawl 320 may bend within recess 322 . Alternatively (or in addition), pawl 320 may move within recess 322, and the size of recess 322 may (at least partially) define a predetermined range of rotation. FIGS. 21 and 22 are similar to FIGS. 19 and 20 except that the pawl 320 extends from a portion (eg, cavity or recess) 310 of the blade cartridge 22 and the recess 322 is a portion of the cavity 310 of the blade cartridge 22. formed in the part.

[00183] Referring now to Figures 23 and 24, a still further embodiment of a resistive pivot mechanism is schematically illustrated. The resistance pivot mechanism may include one or more pawls 420 and recesses 422 as generally described herein. For example, as shown schematically in FIG. 23, one or more pawls 420 can extend from the arm 30 and one or more recesses 422 can be formed in part of the cavity 410 of the blade cartridge 22. can be formed. Alternatively (or in addition), one or more pawls 420 may extend from a portion of the cavity 410 of the blade cartridge 22 and one or more recesses 422 as shown generally in FIG. may be formed on a portion of arm 30 . However, it should be appreciated that one or more of the pawls 420 and/or recesses 422 may be located anywhere on the blade cartridge 22 and/or pivot arm 34, as described herein.

[00184] The resistive swirl mechanism may also include one or more ballast devices 450 configured to move within at least a portion of the blade cartridge 22. As shown in FIG. For example, ballast device 450 may be configured to slide within one or more passageways 452 defined within blade cartridge 22 . Passage 452 may extend generally perpendicular to pivot arm 34 . The ballast device 450 may be configured to bias the blade cartridge 22 toward a generally initial starting position, as shown schematically. The working surface of the blade cartridge 22 (ie, the surface being used by the user for shaving, for example) is placed in an initial starting position, generally at an angle I of approximately 10-30 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis L of the handle 60. obtain.

[00185] For example, the weight of the ballast device 450 forces the blade cartridge 22 generally in the direction of arrow K until the pawl 420 engages a portion of the recess 422, as shown schematically in FIGS. can power. The blade cartridge 22 can move within the recess 422 in a generally opposite direction of arrow K, and the ballast device 450 biases the blade cartridge 22 toward a generally initial starting position.

[00186] To rotate the blade cartridge 22 to another plane, the user rotates the blade cartridge 22 relative to the handle 60 until the pawl 420 engages another recess 422, as generally described herein. Let When the angle I of blade cartridge 22 exceeds 90 degrees with respect to handle 60 , ballast device 450 may slide to the other side of blade cartridge 22 . Accordingly, the ballast device 450 is ready to bias the blade cartridge 22 toward a generally new initial starting position.

[00187] It should be appreciated that although one ballast device 450 is shown, the resistive slewing mechanism may include multiple ballast devices 450. FIG. Additionally, although a single ballast device 450 is shown in passageway 452 , it should be appreciated that multiple ballast devices 450 may be positioned within one or more passageways 452 . Furthermore, although the resistive pivot mechanism is shown schematically with a pawl and recess, it should be appreciated that the recess may be defined by one or more teeth or one or more elastically deformable pawls.

[00188] Referring now to Figures 25-27, another embodiment of a razor 10 having a hinge 74 is schematically illustrated. Although the razor 10 of FIGS. 25-27 may be used with any blade cartridge known to those skilled in the art, the razor 10 of FIGS. 25-27 was aligned to cut in the first shaving direction D1. A blade cartridge 22 having at least one face 140 with at least one razor 142 and at least one razor 142 aligned to cut in a second shaving direction D2 (e.g., without limitation , the blade cartridge 22 shown schematically in FIG.

[00189] Referring to FIG. 25, a side view of razor 10 is shown. Handle 60 includes a first (proximal) shaft portion 75 coupled to a second (distal) shaft portion 77 by one or more hinges 74 . Hinge 74 may include any hinge mechanism known to those skilled in the art and allows the user to approximate the relative position of first shaft portion 75 to second shaft portion 77 (eg, head assembly 20 to handle 60). It may include a locking mechanism or the like (eg, without limitation, a locking pawl, ratchet mechanism, etc.) configured to allow locking and/or sticking.

[00190] For example, the hinge 74 allows the first shaft portion 75 to swing approximately 90 degrees from the position shown in FIG. 25 to the position shown in FIG. can be configured to allow Hinge 74 pivots first shaft portion 75 in a direction (eg, plane or axis) substantially perpendicular to cutting edge axis CE of one or more cutting edges 151 of razor blades 142 of head assembly 20. It can be recognized that

[00191] Handle 60 (e.g., first shaft portion 75) and/or support hub 50 is a swivel or pivot 177 that allows a user to move blade cartridge 22 to one or more of razor blades 142 of head assembly 20. The first shaft portion 75 and/or the support hub 50 are positioned such that the cutting edge axes CE of the plurality of cutting edges 151 are aligned substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the handle 60 as shown schematically in FIG. A swivel or pivot 177 configured to allow manual pivoting or rotation approximately 90 degrees in an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis Lh of the may optionally be included. Swivel 177 may include any swivel or pivot mechanism known to those of ordinary skill in the art and, for example, allows a user to substantially lock the relative position of blade cartridge 22 to first shaft portion 75 and/or support hub 50 and /or may include a locking mechanism (eg, but not limited to a locking pawl, ratchet mechanism, etc.) configured to allow locking.

[00192] Razor 10 having hinge 74 and swivel 177 as described above (and optionally including, but not limited to, a blade cartridge as generally shown and described herein in FIG. 37) may be particularly useful for shaving the user's head and/or body. In particular, aligning the cutting edge axis CE of one or more cutting edges 151 of the razor blade 142 of the head assembly 20 substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the handle 60 as shown schematically in FIG. , aligning the cutting edge axis CE of the cutting edge 151 of the razor blade 142 substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the handle 60 as shown schematically in FIG. Can facilitate shaving.

[00193] The blade cartridge 22 of Figures 25-27 may optionally include any of the resistance pivot mechanisms described herein. Although not a limitation of the present disclosure unless so specifically claimed, the blade cartridge 22 may include any of the resistive pivot mechanisms and/or any combination of the resistive pivot mechanisms described herein. A resistive pivot mechanism described herein that does not include bias pin 92 may be particularly suitable for use with hinge 74 and swivel 177 . Accordingly, the blade cartridge 22 can be positioned closer to the second shaft portion 77 when placed in the position shown in FIG.

[00194] Referring now to FIGS. 28 and 29, the shaving razor 10 may optionally include a blade cartridge centering mechanism 100. As shown in FIG. Blade cartridge centering mechanism 100 may be configured to substantially align blade cartridge 22 with respect to support arm 30 . For example, blade cartridge centering mechanism 100 may be configured to substantially align pivot pin 34 within receptacle 32 as pivot pin 34 rotates within receptacle 32 . According to one embodiment, pivot pin 34 may include at least one bearing surface 102 configured to substantially engage bearing surface 104 of receptacle 32 . Bearing surfaces 102 , 104 may have outer and inner diameters such that rotation of pivot pin 34 is substantially coaxial with the center of receptacle 32 . Additionally (or alternatively), pivot pin 34 may be positioned in a shoulder region of receptacle 32 to generally align blade cartridge 22 along pivot axis PA (e.g., left/right as schematically shown). It may include at least one shoulder region 106 configured to substantially engage 108 .

[00195] Referring now to FIG. 30A, one embodiment of a blade cartridge 22 having at least a first shaving side 140 is shown schematically. First shaving side 140 includes at least one razor blade 142 . As shown, the first shaving side 140 may include multiple razor blades 142 . More specifically, the first shaving side 140 may include a first set 144 of one or more razor blades 142 and a second set 146 of one or more razor blades 142 . In the illustrated embodiment, each set 144, 146 is shown having three razor blades 142, but this is not a limitation of the present disclosure unless specifically claimed as such, and each set 144, 146 may independently have one or more blades. In an embodiment of the present invention, all razor blades 142 of each set 144, 146 are arranged to cut hair along a first shaving stroke direction D1, and sets 144, 146 are separated by an intermediate skin lubricating strip 176. can be As described herein, the razor blades 142 in sets 144, 146 may optionally be arranged to cut hair in different directions (e.g., one set 146 may be in the first shaving stroke direction D1). , and the other set 144 may be configured to cut hair in the second shaving stroke direction D2).

[00196] The blade cartridge 22 may include a continuous outer housing (frame) 188 around the periphery of the first shave-side razor blade 142, which may be formed of plastic or metal, such as stainless steel. Blade cartridge 22 (eg, frame/housing 188 ) may include front edge region 157 , rear/rear edge region 159 , first side edge region 161 , and second side edge region 163 . As used herein, the terms "forward" and "rear" define relative positions between two or more objects. A shaving aid "in front" of the razor blade 142, for example, is the skin to be shaved and/or as long as the shaving device 10/blade cartridge 22 is stroked in its intended cutting direction, here direction D1. The bristles are positioned so that the surface of the bristles encounters the shaving aid before encountering the razor blades 142 . The "rear" shaving feature of the razor blade 142 is designed to cut the skin and/or hair to be shaved as long as the shaving device 10/blade cartridge 22 is stroked in its intended cutting direction, here direction D1. The surface is positioned to encounter the shaving aid back after encountering the razor blade 142 . Additionally, the term "lateral" is used for anterior and posterior.

[00197] The blade cartridge 22 includes one or more front shaving aids 160 located in at least a portion of the front edge region 157 and/or one or more shaving aids located in at least a portion of the rear/rear edge region 159. posterior shaving aid 162 may optionally be included. For example, front shaving aids 160 may be positioned in front of razor blades 142 (eg, in front of first set 144 and/or second set 146) during a shaving stroke in direction D1, while Rear shaving aids 162 may be positioned behind razor blades 142 (eg, behind second set 146 and/or first set 144) during a shaving stroke in direction D1.

[00198] The blade cartridge 22 may also (or alternatively) align the first (e.g., left) longitudinal ends 150 and 150, respectively, of the first shave-side razor blades 142 during a shaving stroke in direction Dl. A first lateral (e.g., left) shaving aid 164 and a second lateral (e.g., right) shaving aid located substantially adjacent to an opposing second (e.g., right) longitudinal end 152 . tool 166;

[00199] As shown, the front shaving aid 160 may include at least one skin-engaging strip 170 to provide frictional engagement with the skin shaved by the first shave-side razor blade 142, among other things. Skin-engaging strip 170 may include a plurality of flexible raised protrusions, particularly flexible elongated fins formed of a polymeric composition, particularly an elastomer. Alternatively, or in addition to the foregoing, the front shaving aid 160 may include at least one skin lubricating strip 172 to lubricate the skin shaved by the first shave-side razor blade 142, among others.

[00200] Alternatively or in addition to the foregoing, the rear shaving aid 162 may include at least one skin lubricating and/or lubricating agent to lubricate the skin, particularly after being shaved by the first shave-side razor blade 142. A moisturizing strip 174 may also be included. Lubricating and/or moisturizing strips 174 and lubricating and/or moisturizing strips 172 and 176 may include at least one of lubricants, conditioners, moisturizers, soaps, and gels. As described herein, lubricating strips 176 may be positioned between first and second sets of razor blades 142 144 , 146 . The lubricating strip 176 thus further lubricates the portion of the user's skin shaved by the first set 146 of razor blades 142 before the second set 144 of razor blades 142 contacts the portion of the user's skin. smooth out.

[00201] Alternatively or additionally, one of the front shaving aid 160, the rear shaving aid 162, the first side shaving aid 164, and/or the second side shaving aid 166 One or more may also include at least one roller strip, 182, 184, 186, respectively. The roller strips 180, 182, 184, 186 are multiplied to promote a faster, smoother movement of the razor blade and a smoother shave feel regardless of the direction of shaving. ball bearings 190 (eg, stainless steel). According to one embodiment, the roller strips 180, 182, 184, 186 have at least one of the front edge region 157, the rear/rear edge region 159, the first side edge region 161, and the second side edge region 163, respectively. It can be arranged along the part. In the illustrated embodiment, the ball bearings 190 are located all around the perimeter of the frame 188 and are in close proximity to each other, although it should be understood that this is not the intention of the present disclosure unless specifically claimed to be so. Rather than limiting, ball bearings 190 may extend along only a portion of the perimeter of frame 188 (e.g., front edge region 157, rear/rear edge region 159, first side edge region 161, and/or second edge region 161). (around only part of the lateral edge region 163).

[00202] Referring now to FIG. 30B, another embodiment of a blade cartridge 22 having at least a first shaving side 140 is schematically illustrated. Blade cartridge 22 can be similar to blade cartridge 22 shown and described in FIG. A bearing/roller pin 190 may also be included. The elongated ball bearing/roller pin 190 may extend along a substantial portion of the front and/or rear/rear edge regions 157, 159 (e.g., along substantially the entire width of the blade cartridge 22). .

[00203] Referring now to FIG. 31, a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a blade cartridge 22 having a ball bearing 190 consistent with the present disclosure is schematically illustrated. Ball bearings 190 may be located in receptacles (holes) 192 formed in frame 188 of blade cartridge 22 . Ball bearings 190 may be inserted into receptacles 192 from the underside of frame 188 (eg, the surface generally opposite exposed surface 193 of blade cartridge 22 that contacts the user's skin) and are exposed through bearing openings 194 . and/or an exposed portion 191 extending beyond the bearing opening 194 and/or an exposed surface 193 on the first shave side 140 of the frame 188 . (Of course, the ball bearings 190 described herein may also be located on the second shave side 156.) It can be closed at the entrance.

[00204] Exposed portion 191 may be configured to extend beyond exposed surface 193 of frame 188 such that exposed portion 191 may contact the user's skin. One or more of ball bearings 190 are aligned relative to frame 188 such that the amount of exposed portion 191 of ball bearing 190 that extends through bearing opening 194 and/or exposed surface 193 of frame 188 may vary. It may be moveable or retractable generally along B (eg, generally perpendicular to exposed surface 193 of frame 188).

[00205] For example, one or more of the ball bearings 190 may be seated in a biasing device 198 (eg, a compression, torsion, or coil spring). A biasing device 198 may be configured to bias the ball bearings 190 generally outwardly beyond the exposed surface 193 of the frame 188 . When a force is applied in the opposite direction of biasing device 198, exposed portion 191 of ball bearing 190 may retract (eg, within hole 192) against exposed surface 193 of frame 188, and ball bearing 190 may You may move substantially along the line B. In such a manner, biasing device 198 may soften rolling of ball bearing 190 on the user's skin.

[00206] Referring now to FIG. 32, a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a blade cartridge 22 having a ball bearing 190 consistent with the present disclosure is schematically shown. As shown in FIG. 32, the ball bearings 190 are located on the exposed surface 193 (e.g., the first shaving side) of the blade cartridge 22 that contacts the user's skin, rather than the underside of the frame 188 as shown schematically in FIG. 140 ) to the frame 188 of the blade cartridge 22 . A biasing device 198 (eg, a compression, torsion, or coil spring) may first be placed in a recess 200 formed in frame 188 , and ball bearing 190 may then be seated in baging device 198 . . A housing/cover 202 may then be installed in recess 200 with a press fit (forming the housing unit), housing/cover 202 including receptacles 204 for ball bearings 190 and providing bearing openings 194. .

[00207] Referring now to FIG. 33, a cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of a blade cartridge 22 having a ball bearing 190 consistent with the present disclosure is shown schematically. The ball bearing 190 is a housing/cover 202 which is slidably inserted into a recess 200 formed in the frame 188 and secured with a closure 196 formed opposite the exposed surface 193 of the frame 188 . may be installed in the housing/cover 202 . A portion 201 of the frame 188 may extend around in a generally circumferential direction such that an exposed surface 193 of the frame 188 extends over at least a portion of the cover 202 and may define a bearing opening 194 . Rather than allowing only ball bearing 190 to be stored, biasing device 198 and housing/cover 202 may be arranged such that both ball bearing 190 and housing/cover 202 are stored within recess 200. . A portion 201 of frame 188 extends over cover 202 such that ball bearing 190 and housing/cover 202 are housed within recess 200 and opening 194 is defined by portion 201 of frame 188 .

[00208] Referring to FIGS. 34-35B, further embodiments of blade cartridges 22 having ball bearings 190 and elongated ball bearing/roller pins 190, respectively, consistent with the present disclosure are schematically illustrated. When the skin first contacts the razor blades, it tightens and tightens. As part of the shaving experience, the user may choose to wash the area to be shaved with a warm washcloth or warm water before engaging the blades with the skin. While this helps, hot water may not always be available.

[00209] The ball bearing 190 and elongated ball bearing/roller pin 190 shown schematically in Figures 34-35B facilitate a smoother, faster, more efficient shaving stroke while at the same time "skin tightening." It may feature self-lubricating ball bearings and/or elongated ball bearings/roller pins that may function as "massagers" and skin lubricant applicators. Ball bearings are configured to rotate freely in any direction. This eliminates "pulling" during the shaving stroke, which is commonly associated with razor "glide strips." The curved contact surfaces of the ball bearings 190 and/or the elongated ball bearing/roller pins 190 themselves roll over and knead the skin during the shaving stroke. This essentially massages and loosens the skin in preparation for shaving. Both the ball bearing 190 and the elongated ball bearing/roller pin 190 may optionally include textured surfaces to help pick up or grip lubricant during rotation.

[00210] Self-lubricating ball bearing 190 and/or elongated ball bearing/roller pin 190 contact ball bearing 190 and/or elongated ball bearing/roller pin 190 (e.g., without limitation , direct contact). Lubricating oil 197 may include semi-solid or solid lubricating oils, and may also include scented and/or unscented moisturizers, exfoliants, and the like. During the shaving stroke, the razor is pulled over the skin and the ball bearings 190 and/or elongated ball bearing/roller pin 190 rotate. As ball bearings 190 and/or elongated ball bearing/roller pins 190 rotate, they are coated with skin lubricant 197 . Lubricant 197 is then continuously applied to the skin before, during, and after each shaving stroke.

[00211] Ball bearing 190 and/or elongated ball bearing/roller pin 190 may be biased as described herein. For example, a biasing device (eg, a spring, etc.) 198 may be placed below the lubricant as shown schematically in FIG. The biasing device 198 can bias the lubricant 197 generally against the ball bearing 190 , thereby causing the lubricant 197 to likewise bias the ball bearing 190 toward the opening 194 . . The biasing device 198 can soften and/or relieve the force exerted on the lubricating oil 197 so that the downward force is exerted during the shaving stroke while the ball bearing 190 and/or the elongated ball bearing/roller pin 190 is pushed. Promotes smoother, fluid rotation. As the lubricating oil 197 depletes, the biasing device 198 continues to apply an upward force, pushing the lubricating oil 197 and the ball bearing 190 and/or the elongated ball bearing/roller pin 190 until the lubricating oil 197 is finally used up. always provides positive contact between

[00212] Alternatively (or in addition), the biasing device 198 (e.g., but not limited to a spring) may be a ball bearing 190 and/or as schematically illustrated, for example, in FIGS. It may be coupled to the elongated ball bearing/roller pin 190 . For example, ball bearing 190 and/or elongated ball bearing/roller pin 190 may have pin 199 (e.g., , at opposite ends). A biasing device 198 may bias the pin 199 and thus the ball bearing 190 and/or the elongated ball bearing/roller pin 190 toward the opening 194 . When ball bearing 190 and/or elongated ball bearing/roller pin 190 is pushed in the opposite direction of biasing device 198 (eg, away from opening 194), ball bearing 190 and/or elongated ball bearing/ Roller pin 190 may contact a portion of lubricant 197 . Optionally, lubricating oil 197 may be disposed on base 195 which may be biased generally toward ball bearing 190 by one or more biasing devices 198 .

[00213] Referring now to both FIGS. 35C-35E, one implementation of a retaining clip 3502 for mounting, securing and/or otherwise coupling any of the ball bearings 190 described herein. The morphology is shown schematically. In particular, FIG. 35C schematically illustrates one embodiment of retaining clip 3502 in addition to lubricating oil 197, and FIG. 35D schematically illustrates one embodiment of retaining clip 3502 only and one embodiment of ball bearing 190. 35E schematically illustrate one embodiment of retaining clip 3502 only (but it should be understood that these views are provided for illustrative purposes only). Retaining clip 3502 may be configured to be at least partially received within cavity 3504 formed in blade assembly 22 . Retaining clip 3502 (FIGS. 35D and 35E) can include one or more legs or extensions 3506 extending outwardly (eg, downwardly) from base region 3508 (which can form opening 191). . A portion of leg 3506 (eg, a distal region) may include one or more barbs or the like 3510 . Barb 3510 generally retains, secures, attaches and/or couples retaining clip 3502 to cavity 3504/blade assembly 22 and thus ball bearing 190 (and optionally any lubricating oil 191, etc.) to cavity 3504/ It is configured to engage a portion of a surface 3512 (FIG. 35C) sidewall of cavity 3504 to substantially retain, secure, attach and/or couple to blade assembly 22 . A surface 3512 (FIG. 35C) sidewall of the cavity 3504 has a shoulder, recess configured to engage the barb 3510 and provide a mechanical connection to more smoothly retain the retaining clip 3502 within the cavity 3504. , and/or grooves 3514 may optionally be included. Retaining clip 3502 may allow ball bearing 190 to be mounted/inserted from the outside/outside (front and/or back) of blade cartridge 22 during assembly of blade cartridge 22, for example.

[00214] Referring to FIGS. 35F-35H, one implementation of blade cartridge 22 includes blade retention clips 3520 for attaching, securing, and/or otherwise coupling one or more (eg, plurality) of razor blades 140. The morphology is shown schematically. The blade retaining clip 3520 described herein may be used to attach, secure, and/or otherwise couple to any razor blade known to those of ordinary skill in the art and is not specifically claimed as such. Insofar as it is not intended to be limited to any of the embodiments described herein. Additionally (or alternatively), blade retaining clip 3520 attaches, secures, and/or shaving aid 160, skin-engaging strip 170, skin-lubricating strips 172, 176, skin-lubricating and/or moisturizing strip 174, and the like. or may be used to bind to others. Accordingly, the blade retaining clip 3520 may hold one or more razor blades and/or shaving aids 160, skin engaging strips 170, skin lubricating strips 172, 176, skin lubricating and/or moisturizing strips 174, or any combination thereof. It may be used for attachment, fixation, and/or other bonding.

[00215] Referring to FIG. 35F, the blade cartridge 22 may include a housing and/or frame 188 that may be formed of plastic or metal, such as stainless steel. Blade cartridge 22 (eg, frame/housing 188 ) may include front edge region 157 , rear/rear edge region 159 , first side edge region 161 , and second side edge region 163 . In the illustrated embodiment, a blade retaining clip 3520 is used at each longitudinal end 150, 152 of the razor blade 140, but this is for illustrative purposes and only one lateral end of the razor blade 140 is shown. 150 , 152 may be secured with blade retention clips 3520 .

[00216] Referring now to FIG. 35G, a blade retaining clip 3520 may be configured to be at least partially received within a retaining cavity 3522 formed in the blade assembly 22 (eg, frame 188). A blade retaining clip 3520 (FIG. 35H) includes a base region 3528 (which includes razor blades 140, shaving aids 160, skin engaging strips 170, skin lubricating strips 172, 176, skin lubricating and and/or may include one or more legs or extensions 3526 extending outwardly (e.g., downwardly) from the moisturizing strip 174, which may extend across one or more attachment widths Wm. . A portion of leg 3526 (eg, the distal region) may include one or more barbs 3530 . The barbs 3530 may be used to substantially retain, secure, attach and/or couple the blade retention clip 3520 to the blade cavity 3522/blade assembly 22, and thus the razor 140 to the blade cavity 3522/blade assembly 22. For attachment and/or coupling, surface 3532 (FIG. 35G) of blade cavity 3522 is configured to engage a portion of the sidewall. A surface 3532 (FIG. 35G) sidewall of the blade cavity 3522 optionally engages the barb 3530 to provide a mechanical connection to further facilitate retention of the blade retention clip 3520 within the blade cavity 3522. It may include shoulders, recesses, and/or grooves 3534 configured to provide. The blade retaining clip 3520 may allow the blade 140 to be mounted/inserted from outside/external (front and/or rear) of the blade cartridge 22 during assembly of the blade cartridge 22, for example.

[00217] As described herein, the blade cartridge 22, consistent with at least one embodiment described herein, includes first and at least second razor blades 142 each including one or more razor blades 142. A shaving side 140, 156 may be included (see, eg, FIGS. 5 and 9). In one embodiment, the faces or sides 140, 156 may include identifying indicia to allow the user to distinguish one face or side from the other. For example, the skin-engaging strips (SES) and/or lubricating strips may each be a different color on their respective faces or sides 140,156. Alternatively (or in addition), one or more of the razor blades 142 may include indicia that allow the user to distinguish one face or side from the other. For example, one or more of the razor blades 142 may each be a different color on their respective faces or sides 140,156.

[00218] The second shaving side 156 may be the same as the first shaving side 140 in all respects described herein, but is properly positioned when the blade cartridge 22 is rotated 180 degrees. inverted against the first shaving side 140 to facilitate proper orientation. 36, the front and/or back sides 140, 156 may include only one set of one or more razor blades 142. Referring to FIG. Alternatively, the anterior and/or posterior sides 140, 156 are first and/or posterior of at least one razor blade 142 positioned for shaving in opposite shaving directions D1 and D2, as shown schematically in FIG. A second set 144, 146 may be included. A blade cartridge having at least one razor for cutting hair along a first shaving stroke direction D1 and at least one razor for cutting hair in a second shaving stroke direction D2 on the same side 140, 156. 22 can be particularly useful for users wishing to shave their own heads because the user can "reciprocate" the razor 10 without having to lift the razor from the area being shaved to begin a new stroke. This is because it can be moved by the movement of "to do".

[00219] For example, a "body" blade double-sided cartridge configuration includes two sets 144, 146 (e.g., Fig. 37) of one or more blades 142 (e.g., without limitation, three blades in each set). blades) and the first and second sets 144, 146 are arranged in opposite cutting directions D1, D2. The first and second sets 144 , 146 of blades 142 may be separated by lubricating strips 176 . For consumers shaving sensitive areas of their head or any other body, this provides a "back and forth" without having to lift the razor from the area being shaved to begin a new stroke. It is a particularly useful blade arrangement because it allows the use of shaving stroke motion. Optionally, the second side/face of the cartridge may include one or more blades 142 all oriented in the same cutting direction for conventional shaving (eg, FIG. 36). This cartridge configuration gives the user great flexibility when only one device is required to shave any portion of the user's anatomy. One or more of the faces or sides 140 , 156 may have SES on the lower and upper portions of the cartridge 22 . This arrangement may be particularly useful for body blade double-sided combinations as described herein, where the side with blades of opposite cutting direction is the side or side 140, 156 with two SES arrangements.

[00220] Referring now to Figures 38-45, a further embodiment of a blade cartridge 22 consistent with the present disclosure is schematically illustrated. As discussed herein, blade cartridge 22 may include more than two faces. In the illustrated embodiment, the blade cartridge 22 has three planes configured to rotate about the pivot axis PA: a first plane 140, a second plane 156, and a third plane 240, respectively. is shown with a generally triangular cross-section. Any of the surfaces 140, 156, 240 may include any arrangement of razor blades, mirrors, ball bearings, etc., as described herein. Although the faces 140, 156, 240 are shown having substantially the same dimensions, it should be appreciated that one or more of the faces 140, 156, 240 may be one or more of the other faces 140, 156, 240. It may be smaller or larger than one or more. Additionally, as can be appreciated, any one or any combination of the resistive pivot mechanisms described herein will allow the blade cartridge 22 to correspond to any one of the faces 140, 156, 240 of the blade cartridge 22. 41-45 (eg, as schematically indicated by arrow H in FIGS. 41-45). For example, FIG. 40 schematically illustrates one embodiment of pivot pin/cylinder 34 consistent with FIG. However, note that this is only one embodiment and that any of the resistance pivot mechanisms described herein may be used with the blade cartridge 22 as shown in FIGS. 38-45. be understood.

[00221] Referring now to Fig. 46, another view of a razor 10 consistent with the present disclosure is schematically shown. Razor 10 includes a disposable head assembly 20 that includes a blade cartridge 22 and a blade cartridge support member 24. As shown in FIG. As shown, the blade cartridge support member 24 includes a generally U-shaped cartridge support frame 26 . U-shaped cartridge support frame 26 includes two generally curvilinear support arms 30 . For example, support arm 30 may have a generally C-shaped or L-shaped configuration.

[00222] To facilitate pivotable attachment of the blade cartridge 22 to the blade cartridge support member 24 and subsequent use thereof, the blade cartridge 22 and the blade cartridge support member 24 are positioned so that the blade cartridge 22 is pivoted about the pivot axis PA. It may include one or more hinges or pivot assemblies 3 that allow it to rotate (eg, in a direction generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the handle 60). As described herein and shown schematically in FIGS. 47-49, the hinge or pivot assembly 3 allows the blade cartridge 22 to pivot such that the front side 140 and rear side 156 of the blade cartridge 22 can be used. It may be configured to allow rotation of approximately 180 degrees about axis PA (eg, in the direction of arrow W). According to one embodiment, hinge or pivot assembly 3 may be configured to allow blade cartridge 22 to rotate approximately 360 degrees about pivot axis PA.

[00223] Referring again to FIG. 46, a hinge or pivot assembly 3 was located on each support arm 30 of the blade cartridge support member 24 (eg, without limitation, the distal section 40 of the support arm 30). Pivot receptacles 32 may be included, each of which receives a pivot pin/cylinder located on opposite sides of blade cartridge 22 . The pivot pin/cylinder may extend generally outwardly from the side of blade cartridge 22 . In the arrangement described above, the blade cartridges 22 are positioned between the support arms 30 and are supported by each support arm 30 at a pivot connection (assembly) such that the blade cartridges 22 are rotated up to 360° about the pivot axis PA. It can be rotated at any angle, including Of course, the location of one or more of the pivot receptacles 32 and pivot pins may be switched (e.g., one or more of the pivot receptacles 32 may be located on the blade cartridge 22 and one or more of the pivot pins may be located on the blade cartridge 22). One or more may extend outwardly from the support arms 30 of the blade cartridge support member 24). Additionally, one or more portions of support arm 30 (e.g., but not limited to end section 40) may be positioned on one or more sides of blade cartridge 22, as schematically shown. It may be at least partially received in a plurality of hub recesses or pivot receptacles 32 . Alternatively, it will be appreciated that one or more portions of the pivot pin/cylinder may be one located on the support arm 30 (eg, without limitation, the distal section 40 of the support arm 30). Or it may be at least partially received in a plurality of recesses/hubs.

[00224] One or more of the support arms 30 may include a cushioning mechanism 38 to cushion the use of the blade cartridge 22 during shaving. As shown, the second (distal) section 40 of each support arm 30 is configured to slide within a receptacle (eg, slotted recess) in the first (proximal) section 44 of each support arm 30. be done. A compression (eg, coil) spring or biasing device may be disposed within each receptacle. Alternatively (or in addition), first section 44 may include cushioning mechanism 38 . In particular, the cushioning mechanism 38' (see, eg, FIG. 50) is adapted to allow the first section 44 (eg, arm fins, etc. 87) to slide (eg, generally in the direction of arrow Q). Configured. Each receptacle may include a compression (eg, coil) spring or biasing device 46 disposed therein.

[00225] In the methods described above, the biasing device of dampening mechanism 38 may be compressed in response to a downward force exerted on blade cartridge 22, such compression biasing against the downward force. In doing so, such compression can absorb/drain the downward force to cushion the use of the blade cartridge 22 . Further, because the dampening mechanisms 38 of each support arm 30 are independent of each other, the dampening mechanisms 38 may allow each lateral end of the blade cartridge 22 to move and/or dampen independently. It should be appreciated that in other embodiments of shaving device 10 , blade cartridge support member 24 may not include cushioning mechanism 38 .

[00226] Referring now to Figures 47-50, the head assembly 20 may be selectively removably connectable to the handle 60 by the user. As can be appreciated, any mechanism for selectively coupling the blade cartridge support member 24 to the handle 60 can be used. The blade cartridge support member 24 may include a support hub 50 (eg, as shown in FIG. 50) that may be centrally located between the two support arms 30. As shown in FIG. The support hub 50 includes a mechanical connecting element 52 that mechanically connects the blade cartridge support member 24 to a mechanical connecting element 64 on the elongated shaft 62 of the handle 60 (e.g., shown schematically in FIG. 1A). Street).

[00227] For example, as shown in FIG. It includes a rectangular (eg, square) shank 54 that is configured to fit. To provide a positive mechanical connection, rectangular shank 54 engages within engagement apertures 68 and has a plurality of deformable shafts that fix (eg, lock) the position of head assembly 20 relative to handle 60 . (cantilevered) and/or spring-loaded engagement tabs 56 are included. Deformable (cantilevered and/or spring-loaded) engagement tabs 56, in one embodiment, engage engagement openings 68 when actuation button 100 is pressed (eg, as shown in FIGS. 47-49). It can be configured to come out of engagement. Alternatively, the engagement tabs 56 may be manually pushed inward by the user, eg, using the user's thumb and/or fingers on each hand respectively.

[00228] When the engagement tabs 56 are engaged within the engagement openings 68, the head assembly 20 and the handle 60 are generally prevented from separating from one another. Thereafter (e.g., after the useful life of blade cartridge 22), head assembly 20 and handle 60 may be engaged by engaging tabs 56 (e.g., manually using a user's finger and/or using handle 60 and/or disposable head). By pushing inward and out of engagement with the engagement hole 68 (by pushing a button or the like located on the assembly 20) and pulling the shank 54 of the blade cartridge support member 24 out of the recess 66 of the handle 60. can be separated from each other. The used head assembly 20/blade cartridge 22 can be replaced with a new head assembly 20/blade cartridge 22 at this time. Thus, as can be appreciated, the head assembly 20 is selectively removably connectable to the handle 60 by the user.

[00229] Although the shank 54 and recess 66 are shown as part of the blade cartridge support member 24 and handle 60, respectively, it should be appreciated that the arrangement of the shank 54 and recess 66 may be switched (e.g., the shank 54 and recess 66 may be part of handle 60 and blade cartridge support member 24, respectively, see FIG. 5, for example). Additionally (or alternatively), deformable (cantilevered or spring-loaded) engagement tabs 56 and engagement openings 68 are shown as part of the shank 54 and recess 66, respectively, but of course However, the arrangement of the deformable (cantilevered or spring-loaded) engagement tabs 56 and the engagement apertures 68 may be switched (e.g., the deformable (cantilevered or spring-loaded) engagement tabs 56 and the Mating opening 68 may be part of recess 66 and shank 54, respectively). Again, it should be appreciated that the connecting element 52 is not limited to the arrangements shown and/or described herein, unless specifically stated to the contrary, and the user may Any connecting element 52 that allows for selective releasable coupling of assembly 20 to handle 60 may be used.

[00230] Referring now to Figures 46, 51 and 52, another embodiment of a razor 10 having a hinge 74 is schematically illustrated. Although the razor 10 of FIGS. 25-27 may be used with any blade cartridge known to those skilled in the art, the razor 10 of FIGS. 25-27 was aligned to cut in the first shaving direction D1. It may be particularly useful for blade cartridges 22 having at least one face 140 with at least one razor 142 and at least one razor 142 aligned to cut in a second shaving direction D2 (e.g., limited blade cartridge 22) as shown schematically in FIG.

[00231] Hinge 74 is configured to allow head assembly 20 to rotate from the position shown schematically in FIG. 46 to the position shown schematically in FIGS. obtain. Handle 60 may include a first (proximal) shaft portion 75 (FIGS. 51-52) coupled to a second (distal) shaft portion 77 by one or more hinges 74 . Hinge 74 may include any hinge mechanism known to those of ordinary skill in the art, such as allowing a user to adjust the relative position of first shaft portion 75 (eg, head assembly 20 with respect to handle 60) with respect to second shaft portion 77. A locking mechanism (eg, but not limited to a locking pawl, ratchet mechanism, etc.) configured to allow it to substantially lock or affix to the body may be included.

[00232] For example, in hinge 74, first shaft portion 75 swings approximately 90 degrees along the direction of arc S from the position shown in Figure 46 to the position shown in Figures 51 and 52. can be configured to allow The hinge 74 is such that the first shaft portion 75 is aligned with the cutting edge axis CE of one or more cutting edges of the razor blade 142 of the head assembly 20 when the razor 10 is in the position shown in FIG. It can be appreciated that it allows rocking in a direction (e.g., plane or axis) that is substantially perpendicular to the plane (not shown for this purpose).

[00233] Handle 60 (e.g., first shaft portion 75) and/or support hub 50 is a swivel or pivot 177 that allows the user to assemble the head assembly as shown schematically in FIGS. The blade cartridge 22 is positioned along the first shaft portion 75 and/or the blade cartridge 22 such that the cutting edge axis CE of one or more cutting edges of the razor blades 142 of the body 20 is aligned substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the handle 60 . A swivel or swivel configured to allow it to pivot or rotate approximately 90 degrees (e.g., as indicated by arrow E in FIGS. 51 and 52) in an axis generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of support hub 50. A pivot 177 may optionally be included. Swivel 177 may include any swivel or pivot mechanism known to those skilled in the art, such as to substantially lock the relative position of blade cartridge 22 to first shaft portion 75 and/or support hub 50 or to It may include a locking mechanism (eg, without limitation, a locking pawl, ratchet mechanism, etc.) configured to allow locking.

[00234] Alternatively, the user can manually remove the head assembly 20 from the handle 60 and rotate the head assembly 20 to the desired position as shown. For example, the connection between head assembly 20 and handle 60 may be configured to allow head assembly 20 to be aligned in two or more different orientations relative to handle 60 . As a non-limiting example, the connection between head assembly 20 and handle 60 may be substantially symmetrical, such as substantially circular and/or square.

[00235] Razor 10 having hinge 74 and swivel 177 as described above may be particularly useful for shaving a user's head and/or body. In particular, the cutting edge axis CE of one or more cutting edges 151 of the razor blades 142 of the head assembly 20 is aligned substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the handle 60 as shown schematically in FIGS. Aligned, as compared to the cutting edge axis CE of the cutting edge of the razor blade 142 being aligned substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the handle 60, as shown schematically in FIG. It may facilitate shaving the user's head and/or body.

[00236] The blade cartridge 22 in FIGS. 46, 51 and 52 is configured so as to allow the blade cartridge 22 to rotate about the pivot axis PA (eg, schematically indicated by arrow T). Any hinge and/or resistance pivot mechanism described herein may optionally be included. Although not limiting of the present disclosure unless so specifically claimed, the blade cartridge 22 may include any of the resistive pivot mechanisms depicted in FIGS. 11-17. The resistive pivot mechanisms shown in FIGS. 11-17 may be particularly well suited for use with hinge 74 and swivel 177 because they do not include biasing pin 92 . Accordingly, the blade cartridge 22 can be positioned closer to the second shaft portion 77 when placed in the position shown in FIGS.

[00237] As discussed herein, razor 10 having hinge 74 and swivel 177 may be used with any blade cartridge 22 described herein. As a non-limiting example, a razor 10 having a hinge 74 and a swivel 177 with a blade cartridge having three sides (i.e., first side 140, second side 156, and third side 240). It is shown schematically in FIG.

[00238] Referring to FIGS. The outflow openings 102 may be positioned along one or more of the edge surfaces 104 of the blade cartridge 22 and substantially prevent the blade cartridge 22 from clogging with hair and/or shaving cream during the shaving process. can be configured. In particular, the outflow opening 102 may allow hair and/or shaving cream to "wash" the outflow opening 102 by rinsing the blade cartridge 22 with water.

[00239] Referring now to Figure 54, one embodiment of the head assembly 20 including a resistive rocking mechanism 540 is schematically illustrated. Head assembly 20 includes one or more arms 30 rotatably coupled to support hub 50 . Resistance rocker mechanism 540 includes one or more biasing devices (e.g., without limitation, springs) configured to bias one or more of arms 30 in directions generally opposite arrow W. etc.). In use, a user may apply a force generally in the direction of arrow W while shaving, and resistive rocking mechanism 540 may allow blade cartridge 22 to rock in the direction of arrow W. Of course, although arm 30 is shown moving/swinging with respect to support hub 50 , first section 44 of arm 30 may be stationary with respect to support hub 50 and arm 30 The second section 40 of may be biased as described herein to allow the blade cartridge 22 to swing in the direction of arrow W. Alternatively (or in addition), the resistive rocking mechanism 540 may be incorporated into the hinge pin 76, eg, as shown schematically in FIGS. 47-49. Accordingly, the head assembly 20 may be biased against the handle 60 in a direction generally opposite arrow W, and the head assembly 20 will generally urge against the handle 60 as force is applied by the user during shaving. You may move in the direction of W.

[00240] Looking to FIGS. 55-57, another embodiment of a resistive pivot mechanism is schematically illustrated. The resistive pivot mechanism may include the blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 and/or the blade cartridge rotation limiter 35 . As described herein, the blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 may allow the blade cartridge 22 to rotate both clockwise and counterclockwise about the pivot axis PA relative to the initial starting position. . The initial start position may correspond to the location/orientation/position of blade cartridge 22 relative to blade cartridge support member 24 and/or handle 60 when no external force is applied to blade cartridge 22 . Each side (eg, sides 140, 156) may have a corresponding initial starting position.

[00241] The resistive pivot mechanism may provide a biasing force that biases the blade cartridge 22 toward the initial starting position. For example, the biasing force provided by blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 may include spring force and/or magnetic force. The magnetic force may be an attractive magnetic force (e.g., a magnetic force that causes the blade cartridge 22 to be urged/pulled toward the blade cartridge support member 24 or handle 60) and/or a repulsive magnetic force (e.g., the blade cartridge 22 pulls toward the blade cartridge support member 24). magnetic force) causing it to be biased away from member 24 or handle 60). Magnetic forces (attraction and/or repulsion) can be between two or more magnets aligned such that their poles provide either attraction or repulsion (e.g. caused by them). For example, one or more magnets may be coupled/secured to blade cartridge 22 and one or more magnets may be coupled/secured to blade cartridge support member 24 .

[00242] A magnetic force may occur between one or more magnets coupled/fixed to the blade cartridge 22 and a ferromagnetic material coupled/fixed to the blade cartridge support member 24 (of course, the blade cartridge 22 and blade cartridge support member 24 may be reversed).

[00243] One or more of the magnets may be either permanent magnets and/or electromagnets. It can also be appreciated that when electromagnets are used, the current can be adjusted to selectively change the orientation of the resulting magnetic field.

[00244] Referring to FIG. 55, one embodiment of a blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 that provides a magnetic biasing force to bias the blade cartridge 22 toward the initial starting position is shown schematically. In the illustrated embodiment, blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 includes at least one magnet 99 a (which may be referred to as blade cartridge magnet 99 a ) located on blade cartridge 22 and at least one magnet located on blade cartridge support member 24 . 99b (which may be referred to as blade cartridge support member magnets 99b). One or more of the blade cartridge magnets 99a and/or blade cartridge support member magnets 99b may be permanent magnets and/or electromagnets. A power source (eg, one or more batteries, etc.) for the electromagnets is not shown for clarity.

[00245] One or more blade cartridge magnets 99a may be located within the blade cartridge frame 188, as shown. For example, one or more blade cartridge magnets 99a may extend longitudinally along an axis that is substantially parallel to the pivot axis PA of the blade cartridge frame 188 . In particular, one or more blade cartridge magnets 99a may be disposed along outer longitudinal regions 157, 159 (eg, adjacent blades 142) of blade cartridge frame 188, which is described herein. can be further understood to be a leading edge region 157 and a trailing/trailing edge region 159 with respect to the cutting direction, as explained in .

[00246] In addition to being located in the outer longitudinal regions 157, 159 of the blade cartridge frame 188, or alternatively thereto, one or more blade cartridge magnets 99a may be located on the outer side of the blade cartridge frame 188 of the blade cartridge 22. may be located in one or both of the lateral regions 161,163. The blade cartridge magnet 99a may be completely enclosed within the blade cartridge frame 188 (ie, invisible) or may have one or more exposed surfaces on the blade cartridge frame 188.

[00247] When the one or more blade cartridge magnets 99a are located in the outer longitudinal regions 157, 159 of the blade cartridge frame 188, the one or more cooperating blade cartridge support member magnets 99b allow the blade cartridge 22 to operate in its use. When in position, they may lie on portions of opposing blade cartridge support members 24 beneath outer longitudinal regions 157 , 159 of blade cartridge frame 188 . More specifically, blade cartridge support member magnets 99 b may be located at base 45 of yoke 47 of blade cartridge support member 24 , which may include at least one proximal section 44 of support arm 30 .

[00248] Alternatively or additionally, if the one or more blade cartridge magnets 99a are located in the outer lateral regions 161, 163 of the blade cartridge frame 188, the one or more cooperating blade cartridge support members Magnets 99b are located on at least one corresponding end section 40 of support arm 30 .

[00249] As will be described in more detail below, the magnetic field produced by the blade cartridge magnets 99a and the blade cartridge support member magnets 99b provide attractive and/or repulsive biasing forces that urge the blade cartridge 22 toward the initial starting position. can result in As shown in FIG. 56, the magnetic biasing force is applied to the blade cartridge 22 as long as the blade cartridge 22 is within a predetermined pivot angle range θ, more specifically, at an intermediate pivot angle θ in the middle of the predetermined pivot angle range. can be biased toward the initial starting position.

[00250] In operation, as best shown in FIG. , either attracting and/or repelling each other over a range of predetermined pivot angles, the interaction of the attractive and/or repelling magnetic fields being a predetermined pivot angle θ is arranged to increase towards a maximum level at intermediate swivel angles θ in the middle of the range of .

[00251] As shown, the swivel angle θ and the range of intermediate swivel angles θ at which the force of the attractive and/or repulsive magnetic field is at its greatest level is longitudinally oriented between the front face 140 of the blade cartridge 22 and the handle 60 of the shaving device 10. It may be determined by the angle formed between axis L and the longitudinal axis.

[00252] Accordingly, the cooperating blade cartridge magnets 99a and blade cartridge support member magnets 99b provide a magnetic interaction between the interacting (attracting and/or repelling) magnetic fields of the cooperating blade cartridge magnets 99a and blade cartridge support member magnets 99b. It should be understood that the action is arranged to vary with rotation of the blade cartridge 22 and the rotational position of the blade cartridge 22 .

[00253] Further, the cooperating blade cartridge magnets 99a and blade cartridge support member magnets 99b are arranged such that there is a magnetic interaction between the attractive and/or repulsive magnetic fields of the cooperating blade cartridge magnets 99a and blade cartridge support member magnets 99b. When applied, the interacting (attractive and/or repulsive) magnetic field forces will cause the blade cartridge 22 to move to an intermediate pivot angle θ in the middle of the range of predetermined pivot angles θ, i.e., the blade cartridge magnet 99a and the blade cartridge support member. It is also understood that the magnets 99b are aligned (e.g. perfectly aligned) with each other and the interaction of the magnetic field is at its maximum force (e.g. initial starting position) and rotates towards a position of no major biasing force. should.

[00254] Referring now to FIG. 57, the shaving device 10 may optionally include a blade cartridge rotation limiter 35. The blade cartridge rotation limiter 35 allows the user to rotate the blade cartridge 22 about the pivot axis PA to select one of the plurality of sides/faces 140, 156 so that the blade cartridge 22 is rotated by the user. Allows rotation within a predetermined range of rotation while in a selected blade/face position during normal use of the razor to follow skin contours.

[00255] The blade cartridge rotation limiter 35 may include at least one pawl 220 configured to extend generally upwardly from the arm 30. As shown in FIG. Pivot pin/cylinder 34 of blade cartridge 22 may include a plurality of recesses 222 configured to receive distal ends 224 of pawls 220 . The locations of the recesses 222 may respectively correspond to one of the faces 140 , 156 of the blade cartridge 22 . When the distal ends 224 of the pawls 220 are engaged in the recesses 222, each recess 222 allows the blade cartridge 22 to be positioned in the range of 1-90 degrees, more particularly in the range of 2-45 degrees, and even more particularly in the range of 2-45 degrees. It may allow rotation in the range of 5-30 degrees.

[00256] Pawl 220 may be located at the end of slidable thumb switch release 28 biased upward (engagement) by spring 29 (Fig. 57). A slidable thumb switch release 28 is downwardly actuated against the bias of spring 29 to disengage distal end 224 of pawl 220 from recess 222 and rotate blade cartridge 22 out of the constraints and limits of recess 222 . can be pressed. After retraction, the slidable thumb switch release 28 may be released, and the distal ends 224 of the pawls 220 may engage the blades in different recesses 222 corresponding to different faces (e.g., 140, 156) of the blade cartridge 22. It can be entered after rotation of the cartridge 22 thereon. The size of recess 222 and pawl 220 thus determines the range of rotation corresponding to each face (eg, 140, 156) of blade cartridge 22. FIG.

[00257] In the foregoing embodiments, the pawl 220, and more particularly the distal end 224, may be rigid and non-deformable. However, in alternative embodiments, at least distal end 224 of pawl 220 may be elastically deformable and slidable thumb switch release 28 may be eliminated. In such embodiments, the pawl 220 , and more particularly the distal end 224 , can be disengaged from the recess 222 by deformation of the pawl 220 under rotational forces applied to the blade cartridge 22 .

[00258] It should also be appreciated that although recess 222 is shown as being part of blade cartridge 22 and pawl 220 is shown as being coupled to blade cartridge support member 24, these components may be reversed.

[00259] It will be appreciated that the blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 of FIGS. 55-57 may be incorporated into any of the resistive pivot mechanisms described herein. For example, the blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 of FIGS. 55-57 may be combined within any of the blade cartridge rotation limiters 35 described herein.

[00260] Referring now to Figures 58-64, yet another embodiment of a resistive pivot mechanism is schematically illustrated. Referring to FIG. 58, the resistive pivot mechanism is a blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 that allows the blade cartridge 22 to rotate clockwise and counterclockwise about pivot axis PA while the blade cartridge 22 toward the initial starting position, and/or allow the blade cartridge 22 to rotate within a predetermined range from the initial starting position. may include a blade cartridge rotation limiter 35 for

[00261] Referring now to Figures 59A and 60, partially perspective views of the blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 and the blade cartridge rotation limiter 35 are shown schematically, wherein the blade cartridge support member 24 is partially transparent to Similar to the embodiment of Figures 55-57, the blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 of Figures 58-64 includes a plurality of magnets arranged such that the magnetic field biases the blade cartridge 22 toward the initial starting position. 99a, 99b. Additionally, the blade cartridge rotation limiter 35 of FIGS. 58-64 generally limits the rotation of the blade cartridge 22 to within a predetermined range of rotation relative to the initial start position and/or the blade cartridge 22 on another surface ( One or more detents, pawls (e.g., elastic) on blade cartridge 22 and/or blade cartridge support member 24 configured to provide an indication to the user that (e.g., 140 or 156) has been selected. dynamically deformable pawls) and/or recesses.

[00262] With continued reference to Figures 59-60 and 61-62, one embodiment of the blade cartridge support member 24 is schematically illustrated. Blade cartridge support member 24 includes one or more blade cartridge support member magnets 99 b coupled to one or more of support arms 30 . The blade cartridge support member magnet 99b may be positioned anywhere on the blade cartridge support member 24, such as, but not limited to, generally below or above the pivot PA/pivot receptacle 32. Although the blade cartridge support member magnet 99b is schematically shown having a generally cylindrical shape, it should be appreciated that the blade cartridge support member magnet 99b may have other shapes. For example, the blade cartridge support member magnets 99b are positioned substantially along a radius of rotation from the pivot axis PA that substantially corresponds to the distance (i.e., radius) of the blade cartridge magnets 99a from the pivot axis PA, as described herein. It may have an elongated generally arcuate shape. Additionally, although only one blade cartridge support member magnet 99b is shown coupled to each arm 30, one or more of the arms 30 may have multiple blade cartridge support member magnets 99b. may also not have the blade cartridge support member magnet 99b.

[00263] The blade cartridge support member 24 may be used to substantially confine rotation of the blade cartridge 22 to within a predetermined range of rotation relative to the initial starting position and/or another surface (eg, 140 or 156) of the blade cartridge 22 may be One or more detents, pawls and/or recesses 6102 that engage corresponding elements of the blade cartridge 22 may optionally be included to provide an indication to the user that it has been selected. In the illustrated embodiment, the blade cartridge support member 24 is shown with one detent 6102 extending generally outwardly from each support arm 30 . Detent 6102 may be elastically deformable or substantially rigid. Although each support arm 30 is shown with one detent 6102, one or more of the support arms 30 may include multiple detents 6102 or no detents 6102. Good things can be recognized. Additionally, it should be appreciated that one or more of the support arms 30 may include one or more recesses and/or pawls configured to engage detents, pawls or recesses on the blade cartridge 22. can contain.

[00264] With continued reference to Figures 59-60 and 63-64, one embodiment of the blade cartridge 22 is schematically illustrated. Blade cartridge 22 includes one or more blade cartridge magnets 99a coupled thereto. For example, blade cartridge 22 may include one or more (eg, a plurality) of blade cartridge magnets 99 a coupled to one or more lateral ends of blade cartridge 22 . The blade cartridge magnet 99a may be centered about the pivot axis PA, for example about the pivot pin/cylinder 34, such that the blade cartridge magnet 99a and the blade cartridge support magnet 99b are approximately the same distance (radius) from the pivot axis PA. It may be positioned at a distance (eg, radius) from the pivot axis PA so that it is substantially aligned. Magnets 99a, 99b are arranged such that the separation distance D _sep (FIG. 59A) between blade cartridge magnet 99a and blade cartridge support magnet 99b is substantially minimized when magnets 99a, 99b are aligned and substantially facing each other. may be aligned to Aligning the magnets 99a, 99b so that they are approximately the same radius from the pivot axis PA can increase the biasing force of the magnets 99a, 99b, thereby urging the blade cartridge 22 toward the initial starting position. Increase the biasing force.

[00265] Although the blade cartridge 22 of Figures 63 and 64 is shown with four blade cartridge magnets 99a at each end, this is of course exemplary and the blade cartridge 22 may have more or less than three blade cartridge magnets 99a. Additionally, one or more of the blade cartridge magnets 99a may have a generally arcuate shape with a radius that generally corresponds to the distance (radius) of the blade cartridge support magnets 99b from the pivot axis PA. Further, while the blade cartridge support member 24 in FIGS. 61 and 62 is shown with one blade cartridge support member magnet 99b on each arm 30, this is of course exemplary. , the blade cartridge support member 24 may have more than one or less than one blade cartridge support member magnet 99b on each arm 30 (e.g., only one arm 30 may support one or more blade cartridge support members). member magnet 99b, or both arms may include at least one blade cartridge support member magnet 99b).

[00266] As discussed herein, the blade cartridge magnet 99a and the blade cartridge support member magnet 99b may be arranged to bias the blade cartridge toward the initial starting position. The blade cartridge magnets 99a and blade cartridge support member magnets 99b may thus be arranged in any manner to achieve this effect. For example, Figures 59B, 59C, and 59D illustrate possible alignments of blade cartridge magnets 99a and blade cartridge support member magnets 99b, along with possible alignments of various poles of blade cartridge magnets 99a and blade cartridge support member magnets 99b. 4A and 4B generally illustrate various embodiments of arrangements; Of course, this is provided for illustrative purposes only, and the present disclosure is not limited to any particular arrangement of blade cartridge magnets 99a and blade cartridge support member magnets 99b unless specifically claimed as such.

[00267] The blade cartridge 22 may be configured to substantially confine rotation of the blade cartridge 22 to within a predetermined range of rotation relative to the initial starting position, and/or another face (eg, 140 or 156) of the blade cartridge 22 may be selected. One or more detents, pawls and/or recesses 6302 are optionally provided to engage corresponding detents, pawls and/or recesses 6102 of the blade cartridge support member 24 to provide an indication to the user that the may be included in

[00268] In the illustrated embodiment, the blade cartridge 22 is shown having one or more detents 6302 extending generally outwardly from one or more lateral ends of the blade cartridge 22. there is The detents 6302 may be centered about the pivot axis PA, for example about the pivot pin/cylinder 34, and the detents 6302 on the blade cartridge 22 and the detents 6102 on the blade cartridge support member 24 are substantially coaxial from the pivot axis PA. It may be located at a distance (eg, radius) from the pivot axis PA so as to be substantially aligned at a distance (radius). Detents 6102, 6302 extend outwardly from blade cartridge support member 24 and blade cartridge 22, respectively, such that detents 6102, 6302 substantially interfere with each as blade cartridge 22 rotates about pivot axis PA. may For example, detents 6102, 6302 may substantially contact each other as blade cartridge 22 rotates about pivot axis PA. Contact of the detents 6102 , 6302 may substantially prevent further clockwise and/or counterclockwise rotation of the blade cartridge 22 .

[00269] For example, the two detents 6302a, 6302b may be aligned substantially opposite sides of the pivot axis PA (eg, substantially 180 degrees apart from each other). Aligning the detents 6302a, 6302b 180 degrees apart from each other generally allows the blade cartridge 22 to rotate approximately 90 degrees in each direction (eg, clockwise and counterclockwise) from the initial starting position. Of course, the number and alignment of detents 6302 may be selected to allow blade cartridge 22 to rotate within any predetermined range. As an example, the additional detents 6302 are positioned less than 180 degrees from each (e.g., less than 90 degrees from the initial starting position) to allow the blade cartridge 22 to rotate less than 90 degrees from the initial starting position. can be

[00270] According to one embodiment, the detents 6102, 6302 may be substantially rigid. Thus, contact between detents 6102, 6302 substantially prevents further rotation of blade cartridge 22 without exerting a face selection force. As used herein, face selective force is defined as the amount of force in excess of the normal force exerted on the blade cartridge 22 during normal shaving. To rotate the blade cartridge 22 beyond a predetermined range of rotation to select a different plane (e.g., 140 or 156), the user applies a plane selection force to one of the support arms 30 of the blade cartridge support member 24. One or more may be deflected outwardly and the separation distance D _sep between the blade cartridge 22 and the blade cartridge support member 24 may be increased so that the detents 6302 of the blade cartridge 22 are positioned against the blade cartridge support member 24 . A face selective force can be applied to the blade cartridge 22 that allows it to rotate past the detents 6102 of the blade. Once the detents 6302 of the blade cartridge 22 clear the detents of the blade cartridge support member 24, the resistance exerted by the blade cartridge support member 24 against the blade cartridge 22 is significantly reduced thereby providing the user with another option. Indicates that a face (eg, 140, 156) has been selected. The face selection force is selected so that the user must intentionally apply the force required to select a face so that another face cannot be accidentally selected during normal shaving use. obtain.

[00271] It will be appreciated that although the blade cartridge 22 and blade cartridge support member 24 are shown with two detents 6302 and one detent 6102 at each end, respectively, the detents 6302, The number and arrangement of 6102 may be switched and/or changed depending on the intended application.

[00272] Additionally, it should be appreciated that while the detents 6302, 6102 have been described as being rigid, one or more of the detents 6302, 6102 may be elastically deformable. In such an arrangement, support arm 30 may be substantially rigid (ie, support arm 30 need not deflect to select another plane).

[00273] Additionally, it should be appreciated that one or more of the detents 6302, 6102 may be replaced with recesses and/or pawls. As a non-limiting example, the detents 6302 on the blade cartridge 22 may be replaced with recesses and the detents 6102 on the blade cartridge support member 24 may be received within the recesses. The length of the recess may correspond approximately to a desired predetermined range of rotation about pivot axis PA. To select another plane, the user applies a plane selection force that either deforms detent 6102 and/or deflects support arm 30 . Of course, the detents 6102 on the blade cartridge support member 24 may be replaced with recesses and the detents 6302 on the blade cartridge 22 may be received within. Alternatively, optionally one or more of the detents 6302, 6102 are detents (e.g., elastically deformable detents) that engage corresponding recesses on the blade cartridge 22 and/or blade cartridge support member 24. can be replaced with Additionally, one or more of the detents 6302 , 6102 may engage corresponding pawls (eg, elastically deformable pawls) on the blade cartridge 22 and/or blade cartridge support member 24 .

[00274] It should also be appreciated that the blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 of FIGS. 58-64 may be incorporated into any of the resistive pivot mechanisms described herein. For example, the blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 of FIGS. 58-64 may be combined within any of the blade cartridge rotation limiters 35 described herein. Additionally, the blade cartridge rotation limiter 35 of FIGS. 58-64 may be used with any of the blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanisms 90 described herein. Although magnets 99a, 99b are shown at the lateral ends of support arms 30 of blade cartridge 22 and blade cartridge support member 24, it should be appreciated that magnets 99a, 99b are located at leading edge region 157 and trailing/trailing edges. It may be located in region 159 and in yoke region 47 (eg, as schematically illustrated in FIGS. 55-57).

[00275] It should also be appreciated that although the cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 is shown with both blade cartridge magnets 99a and blade cartridge support member magnets 99b, either of these magnets 99a, 99b may be deleted and the remaining magnets 99a or 99b replaced with ferromagnetic elements to create an attractive magnetic biasing force that biases the blade cartridge 22 toward the initial starting position.

[00276] Referring now to Figures 65-69, a further embodiment of a resistive pivot mechanism is schematically illustrated. The resistive pivot mechanism may include the blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 and/or the blade cartridge rotation limiter 35 . As described herein, the blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 may allow the blade cartridge 22 to rotate both clockwise and counterclockwise about the pivot axis PA relative to the initial starting position. . The initial starting position may correspond to the location/orientation/position of blade cartridge 22 relative to blade cartridge support member 24 and/or handle 60 when no external force is applied to blade cartridge 22 . Each side (eg, sides 140, 156) may have a corresponding initial starting position.

[00277] The cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 may include any cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 described herein. 65-69, cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 includes one or more magnets 99a and/or 99b configured to provide a magnetic biasing force as described herein. including. Accordingly, for the sake of brevity, the details of cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 will not be described in further detail.

[00278] With further reference to Figures 65 and 66-67, one embodiment of the blade cartridge support member 24 is schematically illustrated. Blade cartridge support member 24 may include one or more biased pawls or pins 6602 . A biased pawl or pin 6602 may include a cylinder 6604 and a pin 6606 that is biased by, for example, a spring, pneumatic pressure, or the like. Cylinder 6604 may be separate or integral with blade cartridge support member 24 (eg, cylinder 6604 may be formed by support arm 30). Pins or pawls 6606 may be biased to extend outwardly from cylinder 6604 . Although each support arm 30 is shown with a biased pawl/pin 6602, each support arm 30 may have more than one biased pawl/pin 6602 or may be biased. It can be appreciated that the pawl/pin 6602 may not be present.

[00279] With continued reference to Figures 65 and 67-69, one embodiment of the blade cartridge 22 is schematically illustrated. The blade cartridge 22 may include one or more cams or recesses 6802 corresponding to each face (eg, 140, 156) of the blade cartridge 22. Cams or recesses 6802 may be coupled to one or more of pivot pins/cylinders 34 . Cam or recess 6802 may be configured to receive and/or engage pin or pawl 6606 of biased pawl/pin 6602 . The profile and/or length of cam or recess 6802 and pin/pawl 6606 may determine a predetermined range of rotation for blade cartridge 22 . For example, the pin/pawls 6606 may be received on a contoured surface (eg, cam surface) such that the blade cartridge 22 can rotate relatively easily within a predetermined rotational range during normal shaving use. , may engage a contoured surface (eg, a cam surface). A user may apply a face selection force to the blade cartridge 22 to rotate the blade cartridge 22 to select another face (eg, 140, 156). The face selection force is such that the pin/pawl 6606 retracts against a biasing mechanism (eg, a spring, etc.) within the cylinder 6604 so that the pin/pawl 6606 may disengage the cam or recess 6802 . can be sufficient to As the user continues to rotate the blade cartridge 22, the pin/pawl 6606 engages another cam/recess 6802 corresponding to the selected surface (eg, 140, 156). Of course, the arrangement of biased pawl/pin 6602 and cam 6802 may be switched.

[00280] Referring now to Figures 70-76, a further embodiment of a resistive pivot mechanism is schematically illustrated. The resistive pivot mechanism may include the blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 and/or the blade cartridge rotation limiter 35 . As described herein, the blade cartridge pivot biasing mechanism 90 may allow the blade cartridge 22 to rotate both clockwise and counterclockwise about the pivot axis PA relative to the initial starting position. . The initial starting position may correspond to the location/orientation/position of blade cartridge 22 relative to blade cartridge support member 24 and/or handle 60 when no external force is applied to blade cartridge 22 . Each plane (eg, planes 140, 156) has a corresponding initial starting position.

[00281] Referring to FIG. 70, one embodiment of the head assembly 20 is shown schematically, where the blade cartridge 22 is shown in cross section with parts removed. Blade cartridge 22 is coupled to axle 7002 by detent plate 7004 that engages one or more cams 7006 on axle 7002 . Axle 7002 may include one or more biasing devices, such as, but not limited to, one or more support arms 30 of blade cartridge support member 24 as shown schematically in FIGS. clockwise and/or counter-clockwise about pivot axis PA by one or more springs, including one or more torsion springs 7008 coupled to . For example, one or more of support arms 30 may include cavities, grooves, etc. to receive at least a portion of one or more springs 7008 . In particular, at least two springs 7008 may be wound at least partially around a portion of axle 7002 to rotate arms/ears and cams 7006 clockwise or counterclockwise, respectively, about pivot axis PA. may engage against one or more arms/ears 7010 (eg, FIG. 71) extending outwardly from one or more of the cams 7006 to bias toward. Since the cam 7006 is coupled to the axle 7002, the axle 7002 is coupled to the blade cartridge 22 through the detent plate 7004, and the spring 7008 causes the blade cartridge 22 to pivot clockwise about the pivot axis PA relative to the initial starting position. Bias either clockwise or anti-clockwise.

A detent plate 7004 is coupled/fixed to the frame of the blade cartridge 22 . Detent plate 7004 couples blade cartridge 22 to axle 7002 as described above. In particular, the detent plate 7004 (FIGS. 74-76) removably couples the detent plate 7004 (and thus the frame of the blade cartridge 22) to the cam 7006, thus removably connecting the frame of the blade cartridge 22 to the axle 7002. Coupling includes one or more elastically deformable detents 7402 that engage against cam surface 7102 (best seen in FIG. 71) of cam 7006 .

[00283] To select another plane, the user may apply a plane selection force to the blade cartridge 22 to urge the blade cartridge 22 either clockwise or counterclockwise. As the blade cartridge 22 rotates, the spring 7008 exerts a resisting force. When the resisting force of the spring exceeds the clamping force of the elastically deformable detent 7402, the elastically deformable detent 7402 disengages from the cam surface 7102, thereby causing the detent plate 7004 ( thus allowing the frame of the blade cartridge 22 to rotate relative to cam 7006 and axle 7002 . As the user continues to rotate the blade cartridge 22 about the cam 7006 and axle 7002, the elastically deformable detents 7402 align the cam surfaces corresponding to the selected surfaces (e.g., 140, 156). engage against. For example, the user may rotate the blade cartridge 22 approximately 180 degrees when the elastically deformable detent 7402 disengages from the cam 7006 . Once the desired face of the blade cartridge 22 is selected, the user releases the blade cartridge 22 and the spring 7008 aligns the blade cartridge 22 with a new initial starting position within a predetermined range of rotation (e.g., centered). so as to).

[00284] According to another feature of the present disclosure, the head assembly 20 may be coupled to the handle 60 using one or more magnets. For example, one or more magnets may be coupled/fixed to a portion of head assembly 20 and one or more magnets may be coupled/fixed to a portion (eg, collar) of handle 60 . The magnets in head assembly 20 and handle 60 may be configured to create an attractive magnetic force sufficient to join head assembly 20 to handle 60 during normal shaving use. Additionally, one or more mechanical fasteners (eg, clips, snaps, threads, posts, recesses, etc.) may be used. For example, head assembly 20 may include recesses/cavities configured to receive posts/projections extending from handle 60 . The head assembly 20 and the handle 60 may each contain a magnet, but it should be appreciated that only the head assembly 20 or the handle 60 may contain one or more magnets, the other component being the magnet's magnetic field. may contain ferromagnetic material that is attracted by the One or more of the magnets may include electromagnets and/or permanent magnets. It should also be appreciated that the magnetic coupling of head assembly 20 and handle 60 may be used with any head assembly 20 and handle 60 described herein.

[00285] Referring now to FIGS. 77-78, one embodiment of head assembly 20 and handle 60 configured to be coupled together using one or more magnets consistent with the present disclosure. is shown schematically. In particular, Figure 77 schematically shows head assembly 20 and handle 60 in a disassembled state, and Figure 78 schematically shows head assembly 20 and handle 60 in an assembled state. It will be appreciated that the magnetic connections described herein may be used with any head assembly known to those skilled in the art, including but not limited to any head assembly described herein. may be used.

[00286] As can be appreciated, one or more magnets 7702 may be coupled/fixed to a portion of the head assembly 20, and one or more magnets 7704 may be attached to a portion of the handle 60 (eg, collar 7714). may be attached/fixed to the The magnets 7702, 7704 in the head assembly 20 and handle 60 may be configured to create an attractive magnetic force sufficient to join the head assembly 20 to the handle 60 during normal shaving use. Additionally, one or more mechanical fasteners (eg, clips, snaps, threads, posts, recesses, etc.) may be used. For example, the head assembly 20 may include a recess/cavity 7706 configured to receive a post/projection 7708 extending from the handle 60 (but it should be understood that the recess/cavity 7706 and the post/projection 7708 arrangement may be switched).

[00287] While head assembly 20 and handle 60 may include magnets 7702, 7704, respectively, head assembly 20 or handle 60 may optionally include one or more magnets, the other component being a magnet. may include ferromagnetic material that is attracted by the magnetic field of One or more of magnets 7702, 7704 may include electromagnets and/or permanent magnets. It should also be appreciated that the magnetic coupling of head assembly 20 and handle 60 may be used with any head assembly 20 and handle 60 described herein.

[00288] The one or more magnets 7702, 7704 may be exposed on the outer surfaces 7710, 7712 of the head assembly 20 and/or the handle 60. As shown in FIG. In such embodiments, one or more magnets 7702, 7704 may contact each other when in the assembled state.

Alternatively (or additionally), one or more magnets 7702 , 7704 may be covered by outer surfaces 7710 , 7712 of head assembly 20 and/or handle 60 . In such embodiments, one or more of the magnets 7702, 7704 may contact each other; instead, a magnetic space or gap exists between the magnets 7702, 7704 when in the assembled state. good too. Providing a magnetic space or gap between magnets 7702, 7704 when in the assembled state allows head assembly 20 to move longitudinally relative to handle 60 (e.g., generally along arrow 7802 in FIG. 78). can allow it to move. This movement of the head assembly 20 relative to the handle 60 can provide a shock absorbing effect during shaving and/or help inform the user that they are applying excessive pressure during shaving. According to one embodiment, post/protrusion 7708 may be biased forward such that post/protrusion 7708 contacts the base of recess/cavity 7706 when first assembled. In use, a force applied to either the head assembly 20 and/or the handle 60 can cause the head assembly 20 to exert a force against the biasing force of the post/protrusion 7708, thereby Move post/projection 7708 against the biasing force to allow head assembly 20 to move relative to handle 60 .

[00290] As discussed herein, the handle 60 includes a collar 7714 attached to, secured to, and/or otherwise coupled to, or molded as part of, the body portion 7716 of the handle 60. can contain. Optionally, collar 7714 may be incorporated as part of body portion 7716 as a single unit. According to one embodiment, post/protrusion 7708 can extend generally outwardly from body portion 7716 and may be at least partially received within post cavity 7718 in collar 7714 . One advantage of this arrangement is that the magnet 7704 may be fixed (eg, without limitation, overmolded) within the collar 7714 and the collar 7714 may be fixed to the body portion 7716. . This allows the number, size, shape, and/or arrangement of magnets 7704 to be easily changed for various designs without the need to change the manufacture (eg, without limitation, molding) of body portion 7716. can allow it to be done. This may also allow a single collar 7714 to be used on multiple different body portions 7716 .

[00291] Referring now to FIGS. 79-80, another aspect of a head assembly 20 and handle 60 configured to be coupled together using one or more magnets consistent with the present disclosure. is shown schematically. In particular, Figure 79 schematically shows head assembly 20 and handle 60 in an exploded state, while Figure 80 schematically shows head assembly 20 and handle 60 in an assembled state. Of course, the magnetic connections described herein with any head assembly known to those skilled in the art, including, but not limited to, any head assembly described herein. may be used.

[00292] The embodiments illustrated in Figures 77-78 may use magnetic attraction to couple the head assembly 20 and handle 60 together (e.g., a magnetic field may cause the head assembly 20 and handle 60 to pull together). One or more poles of the magnets 7702, 7704 are aligned to provide an attractive force urging them toward), while the head assembly 20 and handle 60 of FIGS. For example, a central magnet 7902 and an annular magnet 7904) whose poles are aligned so that their magnetic fields provide magnetic repulsion that binds the head assembly 20 and handle 60 together as described herein. includes at least two aligned magnets.

[00293] For example, the head assembly 20 can be at least partially received in a cavity (eg, handle cavity) 7908 that includes one or more central magnets 7902 and one or more annular magnets 7904. A protrusion (eg, head protrusion) 7906 including one or more central magnets 7902 configured and also similarly configured to be at least partially received in a central region of the annular magnet 7904 may be included. Annular magnet 7904 includes one or more annular, annular, and/or toroidal (eg, circular, ring, disc, etc.) shaped magnets (eg, either permanent magnets and/or electromagnets). obtain. Alternatively (or in addition), the ring magnet 7904 can generate a generally annular, annulus, and/or toroidal magnetic field (e.g., a magnetic field with field lines forming a generally annular, annulus, and/or toroidal pattern). It may include a plurality (eg, an array) of magnets generally arranged in a generally annular, annulus-like, and/or toroidal (eg, circular, ring-like, disk-like, toroidal-like, etc.) configuration to provide the effect. Central magnet 7902 may include any magnet (eg, permanent magnet and/or electromagnet), such as, but not limited to, a disc magnet.

[00294] As mentioned above, the head assembly 20 and handle 60 may be coupled together using repulsive magnetic forces between the head assembly magnet 7902 and the handle magnet 7904. FIG. In particular, we have determined that the central magnet 7902 and the ring magnet 7904 (having an inner dimension ID 7910 greater than or equal to the outer dimension OD 7912 of the central magnet 7902) are arranged such that the central magnet 7902 can pass through the central region 7920 of the ring magnet 7904. . , the resulting force versus displacement curves (see, eg, FIGS. 81A-81B) are very similar to those of conventional mechanical detents.

[00295] With particular reference to FIGS. 81A and 81B, the displacement (eg, movement) of the central magnet 7902 relative to the annular magnet 7904 is applied to the resulting magnetic force (eg, entering or leaving the cavity 7908). is shown schematically. 81A, when magnets 7902, 7904 approach each other along axis 7914 in direction 8100 (eg, head assembly 20 is advanced toward handle 60), magnetic fields 8102, 8104 therebetween cause a The applied repulsive force F initially provides a force (eg, region 8106) that resists movement of head assembly 20 toward cavity 7908 and increases (eg, increases) as central magnet 7902 approaches annular magnet 7904. , then begins to decrease (eg, to substantially zero) when the magnets 7902, 7904 are aligned at position C (eg, the magnetic fields 8102, 8104 of the magnets 7902, 7904 balance each other and the head assembly 20 and blade substantially no force biasing 60 along axis 7914). It can be seen that when central magnet 7902 and ring magnet 7904 are aligned at position C, an unstable balance is achieved. It may be difficult to keep the central magnet 7902 and ring magnet 7904 in this position. This unstable equilibrium is what gives a sense of detent.

[00296] Referring to FIG. 81B, as magnets 7902 continue to move along axis 7914 in direction 8100 past position C (eg, they begin to pass through central region 7920 of annular magnet 7904), their The repulsive force F created by the magnetic fields 8102 , 8104 therebetween switches against region 8106 resulting in a force (eg, region 8108 ) that urges head assembly 20 toward handle 60 . This region of force 8108 initially continues to increase until the magnetic field begins to dissipate. At region 8108 , the force begins to push central magnet 7902 away from annular magnet 7904 , thereby urging head assembly 20 toward handle 60 . From the perspective of the user pushing the head assembly 20 toward the handle 60, the perception is an initial resistance increasing to peak force, followed by a "helping force" as the central magnet 7902 passes the central region 7920 of the annular magnet 7904. , and the counter-repulsive force takes over. Once the hard stops are properly positioned (e.g., the distal end of the protrusion 7906 contacting the base of the cavity 7908, the base region of the protrusion 7906 contacting the proximal surface surrounding the opening to the cavity 7908, and/or the tapered surfaces of protrusion 7906 and cavity 7908 contacting each other (either because protrusion 7906 is "lowest" relative to cavity 7908), the repulsive force in region 8108 is The assembly 20 is held against the handle 60 resulting in a secure hold between the head assembly 20 and the handle 60.

[00297] The repulsive magnetic coupling is a result of the interaction characteristic between the magnetic field lines of the central magnet 7902 passing through the central region 7920 of the annular magnet 7904 (e.g., from the plane (e.g., plane) between ID and OD). There are force lines in the central region 7920 of the annular magnet 7904 that are opposite in direction to the outgoing force lines.As a result, when the central magnet 7902 approaches the ID of the annular magnet 7904 (FIG. 81A), the central magnet 7902 and the annular magnet Even if the poles of the ring magnet 7904 are oriented with opposite poles toward each other (which can create an attractive magnetic force if the ring magnet 7904 has no holes or a central region 7920), the magnetic field 8104 of the ring magnet in the ID is , opposes the magnetic field 8102 of the central magnet 7902 and causes a repelling magnetic force, again, of course, the same as if the annular magnet 7904 were replaced by a plurality of separate magnets arranged in a generally circular array. can have an effect.

[00298] Returning to FIGS. 79 and 80, an optional helper magnet 7922 may be provided proximate the base of cavity 7908. FIG. The helper magnet 7922 may have poles aligned with the central magnet 7902 to provide an attractive magnetic force between them. The attractive magnetic force between the central magnet 7902 and the helper magnet 7922 can further increase the holding force between the head assembly 20 and the handle 60 while allowing the user to insert the head assembly 20 into the handle 60. It still retains the inherent "detent" feature that can be experienced inside.

[00299] In the illustrated embodiment, the ring magnet 7904 and the cavity 7908 are part of the collar 7714, although of course this is not a limitation of the present disclosure unless specifically claimed as such. Additionally, it should be appreciated that although the head assembly 20 and handle 60 are shown with the head projection 7906 received within the handle cavity 7908, this arrangement may be reversed. (For example, the head assembly 20 may include a head assembly cavity with an annular magnet 7904 and the handle 60 may include a handle projection with a central magnet 7902.) I will appreciate any additional modifications necessary on the basis of.

[00300] Referring now to FIG. 82, another embodiment of a magnetic connection between the head assembly 20 and the handle 60 is schematically illustrated. The magnetic connections can be similar to the arrangements shown in FIGS. 79-80 except that the optional helper magnets 7922 can be replaced with buoyant/repulsive magnets 8202. FIG. In particular, the buoyant/repulsive magnet 8202 may have its poles reversed relative to the helper magnet 7922 so that it repels the central magnet 7902 rather than attracting it. The buoyant/repulsive magnet 8202 thereby causes the central magnet (and thus the head assembly 20) to balance (or hover or levitate) at a point between the ring magnet 7904 and the buoyant/repulsive magnet 8202. If a suitable gap or space 8404 remains between the mating surfaces of head assembly 20 and handle 60, head assembly 20 will float axially along axis 7914 while always returning to the equilibrium point after deflection. visible, thereby giving the razor system 10 a small shock absorbing effect. Head assembly 20 may thus move axially along axis 7914 within space 8404 . When the central magnet 7902 is urged towards the buoyant/repulsive magnet 8202, the repulsive force between them increases as they get closer until they touch, at which point A hard stop is perceived at . It can be seen that this is very similar to the behavior of a compression spring whose resistance increases with displacement until it finally attains a tight length.

[00301] It should be appreciated that, similar to FIGS. may be reversed (eg, head assembly 20 may include a head assembly cavity with annular magnet 7904 and buoyant/repulsive magnet 8202, and handle 60 may include a handle protrusion with central magnet 7902). ), and those skilled in the art will recognize any additional modifications necessary based on this disclosure. Space 8404 may optionally be covered with elastically deformable socks, gaiters, or the like. Additionally, it should be appreciated that the magnetic connections described herein can include any head assembly known to those skilled in the art, including, but not limited to, any head assembly described herein. It may also be used with head assemblies.

[00302] Referring now to FIG. 83, another embodiment of a magnetic connection between the head assembly 20 and the handle 60 is schematically illustrated. Similar to FIG. 82, the magnetic connection may include buoyancy features, but the buoyancy/repulsion magnet 8202 of FIG. This may be achieved through a polar relationship (ie, the pole of the central magnet 7902 is the opposite pole of the ring magnet 7904). As the head assembly 20 approaches the handle 60 during insertion, resistance may be reduced compared to the arrangement shown in Figures 79-80, but the detent effect may still be achieved manually. A balance point between the central magnet 7902 and the ring magnet 7904 occurs when the two magnets 7902, 7904 are coplanar or substantially coplanar, with a small deflection in either direction along the axis 7914. Later return to the equilibrium point. For short deflections the behavior is very similar to that of the arrangement shown in FIG. 82, but the restoring force in FIG. 83 decreases (instead of increasing as in the arrangement of FIG. 82) for larger deflections. , because without the buoyant/repulsive magnet 8202, only the return force is generated by the attractive force between the central magnet 7902 and the ring magnet 7904, which further increases as the deflection increases. be. Of course, the magnetic connections described herein may be used with any head assembly known to those skilled in the art, including, but not limited to, any head assembly described herein. may

[00303] Referring now to FIGS. In particular, FIGS. 84 and 85 schematically show perspective views of the blade cartridge 22 and blade cartridge support member 24 in unassembled and assembled conditions, respectively, while FIGS. 1 schematically shows a cross-sectional side view of the blade cartridge 22 and blade cartridge support member 24 in the disassembled and assembled condition.

[00304] The blade cartridge 22 may comprise any blade cartridge known to those skilled in the art, including, but not limited to, any of the blade cartridges 22 described herein. Head assembly 20 may optionally include any of the resistive swivel mechanisms described herein, including, but not limited to, a magnetoresistive swivel mechanism. As shown, the blade cartridge support member 24 includes a generally U-shaped cartridge support frame 26 having two generally curvilinear support arms 30 (either generally C-shaped or L-shaped); is not a limitation of the disclosure unless specifically claimed as such.

[00305] The blade cartridge 22 includes a frame 188 (single piece, such as, but not limited to, a shell design) having one or more pivot pins/cylinders 34 extending outwardly from the lateral edges of the frame 188. , which can be either of multiple pieces) (e.g., single pivot pins/cylinders 34 each extending across the frame 188, or outwardly from first and second lateral edges of the frame 188). First and second pivot pins/cylinders 34) extending to the One or more portions (eg, end regions) of pivot pin/cylinder 34 may include one or more magnets and/or ferrous materials.

[00306] The blade cartridge support member 24 includes one or more pivot receptacles 32. As shown in FIG. For example, each support arm 30 may include a pivot receptacle 32 . At least one of the pivot receptacles 32 is configured to receive at least a portion of a pivot pin/cylinder 34 located on one of the opposing sides of the blade cartridge 22 (e.g., shown schematically in FIGS. 85 and 87). (as shown) may include a receiving pocket or cavity 8602 (best seen in FIG. 86).

86, the pocket or cavity 8602 has an open end 8604 through which the pivot pin/cylinder 34 may be received into the pocket or cavity 8602. can contain. The pocket or cavity 8602 may also include tapered entries and/or tapered sidewalls to facilitate entry of the pivot pin/cylinder 34 into the pocket or cavity 8602 . According to one embodiment, pivot receptacle 32 includes one or more blade cartridge pivots and retaining magnets 8606 (eg, one or more permanent and/or electromagnets) received therein. pivot pin/cylinder 34 and a retaining magnet 8606 configured to provide an attractive magnetic force. For example, the pivot pin/cylinder 34 may comprise a ferrous material that is magnetically attracted to the blade cartridge pivot and retention magnet 8606, thereby mounting, securing and/or otherwise coupling the blade cartridge 22 to the blade cartridge support member 24. obtain. Alternatively (or in addition), the pivot pin/cylinder 34 is a magnet whose pole is magnetically attracted to the blade cartridge pivot and retention magnet 8606, thereby moving the blade cartridge 22 to the blade cartridge support member 24. Aligning magnets may be included for attachment, fixation, and/or other coupling. In either case, the blade cartridge 22 may rotate about the pivot axis PA through any angle including up to 360 degrees relative to the blade cartridge support member 24 .

[00308] In practice, the user has determined that the magnetic attraction created between the pivot pin/cylinder 34 and the pocket or cavity 8602 (due to one or more blade cartridge pivot and retention magnets 8606) causes the pivot pin/cylinder 34 The unassembled blade cartridge 22 may be positioned adjacent the opening 8604 of the pocket or cavity 8602 until (and thus the blade cartridge 22 ) is installed in the pocket or cavity 8602 of the pivot receptacle 32 . Similarly, the user can pivot the blade cartridge 22 by manually (or using a tool) pulling or removing the pivot pin/cylinder 34 (and thus the blade cartridge 22) from the pocket or cavity 8602 of the pivot receptacle 32. It may be removed (eg, removed) from receptacle 32 .

[00309] It will be appreciated that while the pivot receptacle 32 is shown with one or more blade cartridge pivot and retention magnets 8606, the blade cartridge pivot and retention magnets 8606 are located on the pivot pin/cylinder 34. It may optionally be arranged in only one or more. In such an arrangement, the pivot receptacle 32 may comprise a ferrous material that is magnetically attracted to the blade cartridge pivot and retention magnets 8606 of the pivot pin/cylinder 34 .

[00310] It should also be appreciated that although each arm 30 of the blade cartridge support member 24 is shown with a pivot receptacle 32 containing one or more blade cartridge pivot and retention magnets 8606, one Only one arm 30 may include a pivot receptacle 32 with one or more blade cartridge pivot and retention magnets 8606 .

[00311] Additionally, the location of one or more of the pivot receptacle 32 and the pivot pin 34 may be switched (e.g., one or more of the pivot receptacles 32 may be located in the blade cartridge 22 and the pivot pin/ One or more of the cylinders 34 may extend outwardly from the support arms 30 of the blade cartridge support member 24).

[00312] Additionally, although the blade cartridge 22 is shown removably coupled to the handle 60, the blade cartridge support member 24 and handle 60 are optionally integral, unitary. It may be of single or one-piece construction.

[00313] Referring now to FIGS. 88-92, any one of the embodiments described herein with respect to FIGS. can be included in Blade cartridge retainer 8802 may be configured to reduce and/or prevent accidental removal/release of blade cartridge 22 from blade cartridge support member 24 . According to one embodiment (as shown in FIGS. 88-89), the blade cartridge retainer 8802 includes one or more biasing devices such as, but not limited to, spring clips and/or resilient can include protrusions 8804 that can be deformed into A blade cartridge retainer 8802 may extend outwardly from a portion of the cavity 8602, eg, proximate its opening. In fact, the user may insert the pivot pin/cylinder 34 into cavity 8602 . Once the pivot pin/cylinder 34 is inserted into the cavity 8602, the blade cartridge retainer 8802 is pushed until the pivot pin/cylinder 34 passes by the blade cartridge retainer 8802 and the pivot pin/cylinder 34 is seated within the cavity 8602. , can be elastically deformed, deflected and/or moved aside. When seated/received within the cavity 8602 (as shown schematically in FIG. 89), the blade cartridge retainer 8802 can deform, deflect, and/or move the blade cartridge retainer 8802 out. Pivot pin/cylinder 34 may generally be prevented from moving out of engagement with cavity 8602 unless a sufficiently large force is applied.

[00314] Alternatively (or in addition), the blade cartridge retainer 8802 may include one or more biasing devices such as, but not limited to, Detents, elastically deformable pawls, levers, etc. 9002 may be included. For example, the lever 9002 may be spring-biased (the spring is not visible) and extends at least partially across the opening of the cavity 8602 when in the retained position (as shown schematically in FIGS. 90-92). and pivot about pivot point 9006 so that lever 9002 can rotate aside to allow pivot pin/cylinder 34 to enter and/or exit cavity 8602 . An engagement portion (eg, an engagement ramp) 9004 configured to do so may be included. Lever 9002 may also include an actuation area 9008 (eg, without limitation, a raised portion) that allows a user to rotate lever 9002 about pivot 9006 . As can be appreciated, the lever 9002 can thus be biased to the engaged position.

[00315] Again, it should be appreciated that the arrangement of cavity 8602 and pivot pin/cylinder 34 with respect to blade cartridge 22 and blade cartridge support member 24 may be reversed, so blade cartridge retainer 8802 is reversed. can be made It should also be appreciated that the cartridge pivot and retention magnets 8606 may be eliminated.

[00316] Any of the magnets described herein can be either permanent magnets and/or electromagnets. It can also be appreciated that when electromagnets are used, the current can be adjusted to selectively change the orientation of the resulting magnetic field. The magnet can be any type of magnet, including but not limited to rare earth (lanthanide) magnets (including but not limited to neodymium magnets and samarium-cobalt magnets), single molecule magnets, single chain magnets, May include nanostructured magnets, alnico magnets, and the like. The magnet may include magnetic coatings and/or layers. For example, magnets may include magnetic doping materials such as, but not limited to, magnetic pigments, magnetic polymers, magnetic ceramics, magnetic composites, and/or the like.

[00317] The razor blades 142 of the head assembly 20 may be front and/or rear mounted during assembly of the head assembly 20.

[00318] Previous embodiments herein describe axially magnetized disks, where the axially magnetized disk passes through an axially magnetized ring and the poles of the two magnets are oriented in the same direction. For example (and without limitation), some embodiments shown in FIGS. 79-82 include a ring or annular magnet 7904 attached to the razor handle 60 and a disk or central magnet 7904 attached to the head assembly 20. magnet 7902, and as the cartridge was installed in the razor handle, it produces an effect similar to a conventional mechanical detent. Regardless of whether any element (handle 60 or head assembly 20) includes a ring or annular magnet 7704, and whether any element includes a disk or central magnet 7902, as can be appreciated based on this disclosure. , the magnetic detent or snap effect remains the same, and this effect can be of any suitable shape or orientation (e.g., protrusion 7906 extending from handle 60 and cavity 7908 formed in head assembly 20). of mating features (eg, protrusions 7906 and/or cavities 7908).

[00319] Further, as previously described herein, two magnets with like poles facing each other will cause the cartridge head to move to its initial starting position (ISP) after it has been deflected during the shaving stroke. ) can be used to replace the mechanism that traditionally returns to

[00320] Referring now to FIGS. 93-96, another embodiment of a connection mechanism for coupling the resistance pivot mechanism and/or blade cartridge to the handle is schematically illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 60 has a support member cavity 9304 shape in the blade cartridge support member 24, such as a yoke or yoke that approximately positions the position of the disposable head assembly 20 (eg, blade cartridge support member 24) relative to the handle 60. Includes a handle projection, protrusion or post 9302 sized and shaped to be at least partially received within a portion of region 47 (eg, generally prevents side-to-side movement). In the illustrated embodiment, the handle post 9302 has a generally cylindrical shape and the support member cavity 9304 is defined by the outer diameter of the handle post 9302 to generally prevent relative movement between the handle 60 and the blade cartridge support member 24. It has a generally annular shape with a generally corresponding inner diameter. Optionally, the handle post 9302 is one or more locking features 9306 that generally limit rotation of the blade cartridge support member 24 in the direction indicated schematically by arrow 9310 and/or To prevent, one or more locking features 9306 may be included that engage one or more corresponding locking features 9308 of the support member cavity 9304 . For example, locking features 9306, 9308 may engage each other in a lock-key type arrangement that substantially prevents rotation. In one embodiment, locking feature 9306 may include a protrusion and locking feature 9308 may include a cavity having a size and shape that generally corresponds to the size and shape of the protrusion (but of course However, the arrangement of protrusions and cavities may be switched). Alternatively (or in addition), the handle post 9302 and support member cavity 9304 have a non-circular cross-section such that the inner surface of the blade cartridge cavity 9304 engages the outer surface of the handle post 9302 to prevent rotation therebetween. may have

[00321] The handle post 9302 is one or more discs or central magnets 9312 that are positioned within the blade cartridge support member 24 (e.g., support member cavity) as shown schematically in FIGS. 9304 and/or a central portion of the yoke region 47) that passes at least partially through a central region 9314 of one or more ring or annular magnets 9316. As can be seen, the support member cavity 9304 and the central region 9314 of the annular magnet 9316 may be substantially coaxial. According to one embodiment, the blade cartridge support member 24 may optionally include a turret 9320 extending outwardly generally toward the blade cartridge 22 . The distal portion of the central magnet 9312 may be substantially coplanar with the opening or interior surface of the turret 9320, or may extend through the opening.

[00322] As described herein (see, eg, FIGS. 79-82 and corresponding description), the poles of the central magnet 9312 and the annular magnet 9316 are such that the repulsive magnetic force is generated between the magnets 9312, 9316 , thereby aligning the blade cartridge support member 24 and the handle 60 to urge them together. The combination of repulsive magnetic forces and interaction of handle post 9302 with support member cavity 9304 (and optionally locking features 9306, 9308 and/or non-circular cross-sections) holds blade cartridge support member 24 and handle 60 together. may be substantially fixed and/or affixed to each other to form a connection therebetween.

[00323] The blade cartridge 22 may be pivotally coupled to one or more arms 30 of the blade cartridge support member 24, with one or more razor blades 9322 disposed on one or more faces 9324. can include In the illustrated embodiment, blade cartridge 22 includes a plurality of razor blades 9322 on first surface 9324 . Opposite surface 9326 may include one or more cartridge magnets 9318 . Although the cartridge magnets 9318 are shown intermediate the opposite surface 9326, it should be appreciated that one or more cartridge magnets 9318 may be positioned anywhere on the surface 9326.

[00324] The cartridge magnet 9318 is aligned with the central magnet 9312 such that its poles create a repulsive magnetic force when the blade cartridge support member 24 is coupled to the handle 60 (e.g., shown schematically in FIGS. 94 and 95). as indicated). The repulsive magnetic force may generally urge the blade cartridge 22 away from the yoke 47 and/or handle 60, eg, as schematically indicated by arrow 9402. The blade cartridge support member 24 and/or the blade cartridge 22 has one or more ISP (initial starting position) protrusions that establish an initial starting position (ISP) of the blade cartridge 22 relative to the blade cartridge support member 24 and the handle 60. , shoulders, ridges, and/or extensions 9328 . As can be appreciated, the ISP is the position of the blade cartridge 22 relative to the blade cartridge support member 24 and handle 60 when no force is applied and the position to which the blade cartridge 22 returns after the external force is removed. In other words, when an external force is applied to blade cartridge 22 during shaving, the external force overcomes the repulsive magnetic forces between cartridge magnet 9318 and central magnet 9312 such that blade cartridge 22 moves in the generally opposite direction of arrow 9402. can. When the external force is removed and/or reduced, the repulsive magnetic force between the cartridge magnet 9318 and the central magnet 9312 urges the blade cartridge 22 back toward the ISP. Accordingly, the ISP protrusion 9328 sets an initial starting position of the blade cartridge 22 relative to the blade cartridge support member 24 and limits rotation of the blade cartridge 22 in the direction of arrow 9402 and/or prevents blade cartridge 22 from rotating during the shaving stroke. 22 over-rotation can be limited/prevented.

[00325] In the illustrated embodiment, the ISP protrusion 9328 engages (eg, directly contacts) the blade cartridge 22 and prevents the blade cartridge 22 from further rotating about the pivot axis PA. It may extend outwardly from any of the support members 24 a sufficient distance. For example, the ISP protrusions 9328 may be located within one or more of the yoke arms 30 below the pivot axis PA (e.g., proximate the yoke 47), but as noted, this is specifically the case. It is not a limitation of the present disclosure unless so claimed. Alternatively (or in addition), the ISP protrusion 9328 engages (eg, directly contacts) the blade cartridge support member 24 and prevents further rotation of the blade cartridge 22 about the pivot axis PA. It may extend outwardly from any of the blade cartridges 22 a sufficient distance. Accordingly, the ISP protrusion 9328 sets or defines the 0 position of the blade cartridge 22 . The blade cartridge 22 can rotate within a predetermined rotation range about the pivot axis PA. For example, the predetermined range of rotation may be up to 110 degrees, such as less than 90 degrees or less than 45 degrees. Rotation of blade cartridge 22 in the opposite direction of arrow 9402 (e.g., deflection direction) causes ISP protrusion 9328 and/or another protrusion extending from either blade cartridge 22 and/or blade cartridge support member 24 to rotate. , shoulders, ridges, and/or extensions (eg, maximum deflection point (MDP) protrusions). The limit of rotation in the deflection direction is called the maximum deflection point (MDP). Thus, ISP protrusion 9328 can function as both an ISP protrusion and an MDP protrusion. This embodiment has the advantage of producing a restoring force over a larger range of angular displacement--greater than 90 degrees--compared to springs, subject to proper adjustment to the surrounding geometric constraints. An annular magnet 9316 is attached to the blade cartridge support member 24 and a central magnet 9312 is attached to the handle 60 to minimize the number of magnets in the assembly. The ring magnet 9316 is likewise used at this time to repel one or more cartridge magnets 9318 located on the back side 9326 of the blade cartridge 22, thus performing two functions simultaneously (e.g., the handle 60 connection of the head assembly 20 to and activation of the blade cartridge 22;

[00326] Because the central magnet 9312 and the annular magnet 9316 are oriented with their poles pointing in the same direction (see cross-section of the assembled unit in FIG. 95), the disposable head assembly 20 Even when not coupled to the handle 60, a small restoring force is applied when the annular magnet 9316 repels the cartridge magnet 9318 on the back surface 9326 of the blade cartridge 22 (eg, urging the blade cartridge 22 in the direction of arrow 9402). exist. However, when installed, the force produced by the combination of central magnet 9312 and/or annular magnet 9316 is much greater and closely mimics the force of a compression spring, functioning to return blade cartridge 22 to its ISP.

[00327] The blade cartridge support member 24, and thus the blade cartridge 22, can help make it more difficult to pull or flick the handle 60 (magnetic detent/coupling between central magnet 9312 and annular magnet 9316). Additional holding power can be provided in several ways (supplementary to that provided by the effect). One possible way to increase the holding force involves adding helper ring magnets inside the handle 60 . The helper magnet may be axially magnetized and oriented in the same direction as the annular magnet 9316 on the blade cartridge support member 24 located at the base of the handle post 9302 containing the central magnet 9312 . Thus, when the blade cartridge support member 24 is installed on the handle 60, the helper magnet presents an opposite polarity to the nearest face of the approaching annular magnet 9316 on the blade cartridge support member 24, causing the blade cartridge support member to It creates a pulling force on 24 and serves to increase the mounting (during installation) and retention (after installation) forces. Another possible configuration for increasing the retention force is a flexible ring 9330 with an inner diameter slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the handle post 9302 in the support member cavity 9304 and the flexible ring 9330 in the support member cavity 9304. It includes a flexible ring 9330 positioned to grip a portion (eg, but not limited to, the distal tip) of the handle post 9302 when fully inserted. Additionally (or alternatively), one or more of the locking features 9306, 9308 may be flexible receiving receptacles (e.g., but not limited to) that engage corresponding locking features on the opposite component. may include flexible receiving receptacles 9308 on yoke 47 that are engaged by opposing locking features 9306 located on handle 60 . A protrusion 9306 on the handle post 9302 may engage the sides of the flexible receptacle 9308 to increase retention. This can be accomplished with an elastomeric flexible ring (or the like) positioned either on the protrusion or within the receptacle. While these configurations cannot increase attachment force, friction created through deflection of the compliant material by interference with the post tip or yoke receptacle is inadvertently removed from the handle 60 after the blade cartridge support member 24 is installed. can act as an additional obstacle to

[00328] The use of a magnetic detent/coupling system does not limit the configuration for returning the blade cartridge 22 to its ISP to the use of detent generating magnets. 96, including, but not limited to, mechanical means such as a resiliently deformable pawl (RDP) or other magnetic configuration, such as, but not limited to, the magnetic configuration shown in FIG. Any one of the embodiments described in may be used. For example, one or more arm magnets 9602 may be attached to one or more (eg, facing pairs) of arms 30 and the blade cartridge 22 may be one or more blade cartridge magnets 9604. may include one or more blade cartridge magnets 9604 whose axes are parallel to the pivot axis PA of blade cartridge 22 rotation. The arm magnets 9602 can be attracted to the middle/middle blade cartridge magnets 9604 in the blade cartridge 22 because their opposite poles are oriented facing each other. According to one embodiment, adjacent blade cartridge magnets 9604b, 9604c in blade cartridge 22 may be arranged with similar poles facing arm magnet 9602 on one or more sides of middle blade cartridge magnet 9604a. . Therefore, the blade cartridge 22 tends to rest at the center/middle blade cartridge magnet 9604a coaxial with the arm magnet 9602, which determines the ISP. When the blade cartridge 22 is displaced (e.g., rotated) about the pivot axis PA, the resisting torque is a combination of attraction to the center/middle blade cartridge magnet 9604a and repulsion by the outer blade cartridge magnets 9604b, 9604c. , and when the blade cartridge 22 is released, it returns to its ISP. For small displacements, this motion also mimics the displacement of a spring. Displacement is limited by a hard stop/ISP protrusion 9328 as shown schematically in FIG. Depending on the location of the hard stop ISP protrusion 9328, one or more of the outer blade cartridge magnets 9604b, 9604c may be redundant (i.e. If the maximum rotation is very small, its effect is negligible compared to that of the center of attraction/intermediate blade cartridge magnet 9604a, and there is no need to return the blade cartridge 22 to its ISP). Of course, a magnet array arrangement may be used in one or both arms 30 . It should also be appreciated that the arrangement of blade cartridge magnets 9604a-c may include multiple pole and/or nanostructured magnets having multiple regions programmed to provide the various poles described herein. can be replaced with one or more programmable magnets having In one embodiment, the ring magnet 9316 can be replaced with an array of magnets.

[00329] Referring now to FIGS. 98-104, two or more diametrically magnetized (DM) rings and /or Various embodiments of disc magnets are described wherein the two components are securely fixed (e.g., do not separate) to each other, but have a tendency to return to a predetermined rest position, while maintaining certain defined and limited limits. They can be moved relative to each other in a controlled manner and can optionally be separated manually if sufficient force is applied, for example while replacing a used razor cartridge with a new one.

[00330] Referring to FIGS. 98-100, a first embodiment is schematically illustrated. For example, Figure 98 schematically shows the head assembly 20 and handle 60 in an unassembled state, Figure 99 schematically shows the head assembly 20 and handle 60 in an assembled state at an ISP, FIG. 100 schematically shows head assembly 20 and handle 60 in a biased position relative to the ISP.

[00331] In particular, the one or more handle DM magnets 9802 are permanently and fixedly coupled to, fixed to, and/or otherwise attached to the distal end 9804 of the handle 60, and the one or more blade cartridges. The support DM magnet 9806 is permanently and fixedly coupled, fixed, and/or otherwise attached to a portion of the blade cartridge support member 24 (eg, without limitation, yoke 47). Although a single handle DM magnet 9802 and a single blade cartridge support DM magnet 9806 are shown in the illustrated embodiment, it should be appreciated that the handle 60 and/or the blade cartridge support member 24 may include multiple DM magnets. Magnets 9802, 9806 may be included. The handle DM magnet 9802 is shown at least partially received within the handle cavity 9820 , while the support DM magnet 9806 extends partially beyond the rear mating surface of the blade cartridge support member 24 . Although shown extended, it should be appreciated that the cavity 9820 may be formed within the blade cartridge support member 24 and the arrangement may be reversed accordingly.

[00332] Additionally, the handle DM magnet 9802 and the blade cartridge support DM magnet 9806 are shown as ring magnets. The ring magnet configuration can help prevent DM magnets 9802, 9806 from rotating within their respective components (eg, handle 60 and blade cartridge support member 24). For example, the central regions 9808, 9810 of the DM ring magnets 9802, 9806 may be interlocked and/or overlaid with the components 60, 24 (e.g., handle 60 and blade cartridge support member 24) to prevent rotation of the DM ring magnets 9802, 9806. It can have a non-circular shape that can be molded. However, it should be appreciated that one or more of these DM magnets 9802, 9806 may be DM disk magnets without a central hole. The DM disk magnets 9802, 9806 have non-magnetic surfaces extending outwardly from one or more of the planes of the DM disk magnets 9802, 9806 that may similarly prevent rotation of the magnets 9802, 9806 relative to the handle 60 and blade cartridge support member 24, respectively. Cylindrical posts or offset posts may optionally be included. Additionally (or alternatively), a portion of either the DM disk or ring magnets 9802, 9806 may be non-circular to prevent rotation of the magnets 9802, 9806 relative to the handle 60 and blade cartridge support member 24, respectively. (eg, the disc or ring may have a generally oblong or elliptical shape).

[00333] The handle 60, viewed in perspective in FIG. The handle DM magnet 9802 can be shown having first and second planar surfaces 9809, 9811 and an outer circumferential surface 9813 extending therebetween. The handle DM magnet 9802 is aligned in the handle such that the planes 9809, 9811 are aligned generally parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the handle and generally perpendicular to the top and bottom surfaces 9801, 9803 and generally parallel to the right and left sides 9805, 9807. It can be fixed at 60.

[00334] DM magnets 9802, 9806 are such that when handle 60 and blade cartridge support member 24 are brought together during the process of installing disposable head assembly 20 into handle 60, the opposite poles of DM magnets 9802, 9806 are attracted. and attached to the handle 60/blade cartridge support member 24 to complete the installation procedure. According to one embodiment, the DM magnets 9802, 9806 are in substantially tangential contact with each other. When DM magnets 9802, 9806 are positioned against each other, they always seek out a position where two opposite poles meet. This position is called the Predetermined Resting Position (PRP). In this embodiment, two DM magnets 9802, 9806 are positioned such that at a predetermined rest position (PRP) the handle 60 and blade cartridge support member 24 are aligned as on a conventional razor.

[00335] A distal region 9804 of the handle 60 adjacent/proximate to the handle DM magnet 9802 and a proximal region 9812 of the blade cartridge support member 24 adjacent/proximal to the blade cartridge support DM magnet 9806 are the handle interface region 9814 and the support member, respectively. An interface region 9816 may be defined. The interface regions 9814, 9816 may have a shape and contour to allow limited rotational longitudinal movement of the handle 60 and blade cartridge support member 24 relative to each other. DM magnets 9802, 9806 allow this movement to occur, but provide significant resistance, mimicking the behavior of a spring. In fact, the DM magnets 9802, 9806 resemble the motion of a pair of gears in their behavior (i.e., each DM magnet 9802, 9806 not only rotates on its own axis, but also rotates on the opposite magnet's axis). As the contact points between them move further away from the pole, they remain in contact with each other throughout their motion so as to "orbit" about the center. Such displacement, in this case longitudinal movement (eg, in a plane extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the handle 60 and substantially perpendicular to the top and bottom surfaces 9801, 9803) is shown in FIG. ing. Rotation of the blade cartridge support member 24 relative to the handle 60 in either direction may be set and/or limited by the contours of the interfaces 9814,9816.

[00336] When the handle 60 and the blade cartridge support member 24 are released, the DM magnets 9802, 9806 move to reposition themselves relative to each other to a predetermined rest position which in turn forces the blade cartridge 22 into the handle 60. to its original alignment with and/or bias. This feature can be useful for hard-to-reach shaving areas by manually holding the blade cartridge support member 24 (e.g., yoke 47) and blade cartridge 22 in an angled forward position with the fingers. The angle can be easily adjusted depending on the force applied to the blade cartridge support member 24 and blade cartridge 22 .

[00337] Referring now to FIGS. 101-102, another embodiment using DM magnets is schematically illustrated. The arrangement may be similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 98-100, but may also include one or more locking 10102 magnets. Locking magnets 10102 may include, but are not limited to, DM rings or cylindrical magnets 10102 . Locking magnet 10102 may be coupled, fixed, or otherwise attached to handle 60 in a fixed location and orientation with respect to DM handle magnet 9802 . When properly oriented, the locking magnet 10102 and blade cartridge 24/blade cartridge 22 remain in the displaced position when released, as shown schematically in FIG. Locking magnet 10102 attracts and retains blade cartridge support DM magnet 9806 when blade cartridge support member 24/blade cartridge 22 undergoes sufficient angular displacement to cause support DM magnet 9806 to be in close proximity to each other. have the effect of Since the original predetermined rest position (PRP) or ISP shown in FIG. There are three possible positions where the blade cartridge support member 24/blade cartridge 22 can rest in its predetermined rest position with a spring-like return feature responsive to small angular displacements (Fig. 101). ), or can rest in the displaced position and be held securely in place (Fig. 102).

[00338] Optionally, the locking magnet 10102 is retracted within the handle 60 when it is not being used to secure the blade cartridge support member 24/blade cartridge 22 in the bent/displaced position. A retraction mechanism may be provided to do so. The retraction mechanism includes a locking magnet when the blade cartridge support member 24/blade cartridge 22 is in its predetermined rest position so as not to adversely affect the feel of the razor handle 60 in the user's hand and/or collect debris. Allow 10102 to be hidden. The retraction mechanism may include any arrangement for retracting the locking magnet 10102, such as, but not limited to, a manual lever, allowing the user to move the cartridge to the bent position before, or Appropriately sized gear train to automatically position the locking magnet 10102 as the support member 24/blade cartridge 22 is moved from its predetermined rest position/ISP to its bent/displaced position. It is necessary to place a third magnet at

[00339] Although the blade cartridge 22 is shown with a razor on only a single side, it should be appreciated that the blade cartridge 22 may be double-sided.

[00340] Attachment of the blade cartridge 22 to the blade cartridge support member 24 and restriction and control of rotation of the blade cartridge 22 within the blade cartridge support member 24 may be accomplished by mechanical means such as, but not limited to, physical axles. Accomplished in any number of ways described herein, including features and RDP (elastically deformable pawls) or magnetic arrangements, such as alternating attracting/repelling magnets, multi-pole or programmable magnets, etc. can be In the illustrated embodiment, the ISP is a single-sided blade cartridge 22 defined by a pair of repelling magnets, one behind the blade cartridge 22 and the other in the center web of the blade cartridge support member 24/yoke 47. Although a single-sided blade cartridge 22 located at the major edge is shown, this is not a limitation of the present disclosure unless specifically claimed to be so.

[00341] Additionally, it should be noted that the blade cartridge DM magnet 9806 can also be used to create a magnetic force (eg, repel and/or attract the blade cartridge magnet 11410) (eg, See blade cartridge magnet 11410 in FIGS. 145-147). Thus, the DM magnets 9806 may be used to generate magnetic forces in addition to or instead of the blade cartridge support member magnets 11412.

[00342] Referring now to FIGS. 103-105, further embodiments using DM magnets are schematically illustrated. Rather than having a handle DM magnet 9802 and a blade cartridge support DM magnet 9806 as described above, one or more of the arms 30 may include arm DM magnets 10302, which are positioned at the lateral ends 10304 of the blade cartridge 22. One or more may include corresponding blade cartridge DM magnets 10306 . The primary role of the DM magnets 10302, 10306 is to keep the blade cartridge 22 attached to the blade cartridge support member 24/arm 30 and as shown schematically in FIG. and allowing it to deflect upwards. Blade cartridge DM magnets 10306 may be exposed or may be located in an internal portion of blade cartridge 22 so that they do not protrude from lateral ends 10304 of blade cartridge 22 . The ISP of the blade cartridge 22 may be established by the location of the poles of the DM magnets 10302, 10306, occurring at an angle where the opposite poles of the DM magnets 10302, 10306 are adjacent to each other. The DM magnets 10302, 10306 are also part of returning the cartridge head to its ISP when subjected to angular deflection (similar to how the cartridge returns to its predetermined rest position in the embodiments described above). Although practically useful, this function may be performed by opposing pairs of magnets 10308, 10310 in the blade cartridge support member 24 and blade cartridge 22, respectively. In one embodiment, the blade cartridge support member 24 may remain part of the handle 60 and only the blade cartridge 22 may be removed. Alternatively, the blade cartridge 22 and blade cartridge support member 24 may be considered an assembly, in which case the blade cartridge support member 24 employs, but is not limited to, a diametrically magnetized ring and disk pair. It may be removably coupled to handle 60 using any of the arrangements described herein, including a modified twist lock-release system.

[00343] Two or more DM magnets (e.g., without limitation, ring and/or disk DM magnets) have a tendency to return to a predetermined rest position, although the two components are securely fixed to each other. On the other hand, they can be moved relative to each other in a specific defined and limited manner, such that they can be manually separated when sufficient force is applied, for example, during replacement of a used razor cartridge with a new one. , may be used to achieve attachment between two components such as, but not limited to, the razor handle 60 and the blade cartridge 22 .

[00344] Referring to FIGS. 106-108, one embodiment of two or more DM magnets to enable lateral movement of the blade cartridge support member 24/blade cartridge 22 relative to the handle 60 is schematically illustrated. . In particular, the one or more handle DM magnets 10602 are permanently and fixedly coupled, fixed, and/or otherwise attached to the distal end 9804 of the handle 60 and the one or more blade cartridge support DM magnets. 10606 is permanently and fixedly coupled, fixed, and/or otherwise attached to a portion of blade cartridge support member 24 (eg, without limitation, yoke 47). Although a single handle DM magnet 10602 and a single blade cartridge support DM magnet 10606 are shown in the illustrated embodiment, it should be appreciated that the handle 60 and/or the blade cartridge support member 24 may include multiple DM magnets. Magnets 10602, 10606 may be included. While the handle DM magnets 10602 are shown extending partially beyond the distal end 9804 of the handle 60, the blade cartridge support DM magnets 10606 also extend to the blade cartridge support member 24 formed in the blade cartridge support member 24. Although shown at least partially received within support member cavity 10620, it should be appreciated that cavity 10620 may be formed within handle 60 and the arrangement may be reversed accordingly. .

[00345] Additionally, the handle DM magnet 10602 and the support DM magnet 10606 are shown as ring magnets. The ring magnet configuration can help prevent DM magnets 10602, 10606 from rotating within their respective components (eg, handle 60 and blade cartridge support member 24). For example, the central regions 10608, 10610 of the DM ring magnets 10602, 10606 have non-circular shapes that can be coupled and/or overmolded to the handle 60 blade cartridge support member 24 to prevent rotation of the DM ring magnets 10602, 10606. obtain. However, it should be appreciated that one or more of these DM magnets 10602, 10606 may be DM disc magnets without a central hole. The DM disk magnets 10602, 10606 may optionally include non-cylindrical posts or offset posts extending outwardly from one or more of the planes of the DM disk magnets 10602, 10606 that may also prevent rotation. Additionally (or alternatively), a portion of either the DM disk or ring magnets 10602, 10606 may be non-circular to prevent rotation (e.g., the disk or ring may be generally oblong or elliptical). ).

[00346] Handle 60, viewed in perspective in FIG. Handle DM magnet 10602 may be shown as having first and second planar surfaces 10609, 10611 and an outer circumferential surface 10613 extending therebetween. The handle DM magnet 10602 is aligned such that the planes 10609, 10611 are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the handle 60, substantially perpendicular to the right and left surfaces 9805, 9807, and substantially parallel to the top and bottom surfaces 9801, 9803. It can be fixed to the handle 60 . Lateral movement of the blade cartridge support member 24/blade cartridge 22 relative to the handle 60 is thus in a plane extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the handle 60 and substantially perpendicular to the right and left surfaces 9805, 9807 (e.g. , left and right).

[00347] DM magnets 10602, 10606 are such that when handle 60 and blade cartridge support member 24 are brought together during the process of installing disposable head assembly 20 into handle 60, the opposite poles of DM magnets 10602, 10606 are attracted. and attached to the handle 60/blade cartridge support member 24 to complete the installation procedure. According to one embodiment, the DM magnets 10602, 10606 are in substantially tangential contact with each other. When DM magnets 10602, 10606 are positioned against each other, they always seek out a position where two opposite poles meet. This position is called the Predetermined Resting Position (PRP). In this embodiment, the two DM magnets 10602, 10606 are positioned so that the handle 60 and support member 24 are linearly aligned (as on a conventional razor) in a predetermined rest position.

[00348] The distal region 9804 of the handle 60 adjacent/proximate to the handle DM magnet 10602 and the proximal region 9812 of the blade cartridge support member 24 adjacent/proximal to the support DM magnet 10606 are the handle interface region 9814 and the blade cartridge support member, respectively. An interface region 9816 may be defined. The interface regions 9814, 9816 may be shaped and contoured to allow limited rotational lateral movement of the handle 60 and blade cartridge support member 24 relative to one another. DM magnets 10602, 10606 allow this movement to occur, but provide significant resistance, mimicking the behavior of a spring. In fact, the DM magnets 10602, 10606 resemble the motion of a pair of gears in their behavior (i.e., each DM magnet 10602, 10606 not only rotates on its own axis, but also rotates on the opposite magnet's axis). As the contact points between them move further away from the pole, they remain in contact with each other throughout their motion so as to "orbit" about the center. Such displacement, in this case lateral movement (eg, in a plane extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the handle 60 and substantially perpendicular to the right and left surfaces 9805, 9807) is shown in FIG. ing. Rotation of the blade cartridge support member 24 relative to the handle 60 in either direction may be set and/or limited by the contours of the interfaces 9814,9816.

[00349] When the handle 60 and blade cartridge support member 24 are released, the DM magnets 10602, 10606 move to reposition themselves relative to each other to a predetermined rest position which in turn moves the head assembly 20, and thus the Return and/or bias the blade cartridge 22 to its original alignment with the handle 60 .

[00350] Additionally, it should be noted that the blade cartridge support DM magnet 10606 may also be used to create a magnetic force (eg, repel and/or attract the blade cartridge magnet 11410) (eg, , see blade cartridge magnet 11410 in FIGS. 147-150). Thus, the blade cartridge support DM magnets 10606 can be used to generate magnetic forces in addition to or instead of the blade cartridge support member magnets 11412.

[00351] Referring now to FIGS. 109-110, another embodiment featuring two or more DM magnets is schematically illustrated. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment described above with respect to FIGS. 106-108, except that the interfaces 9814, 9816 of the handle 60 and blade cartridge support member 24 are contoured to allow lateral movement. , and the blade cartridge support member 24/blade cartridge 22 twists relative to the handle 60 about the longitudinal axis L generally parallel to the handle 60 (eg, in the direction schematically indicated by arrow 10902). make it possible. Optionally, the twisting motion engages and/or is received in a receptacle recess/groove 10906 (eg, on handle 60) for one or more protruding pins 10904 (eg, but not limited to No, but may be limited by design due to blade cartridge support member 24/pin extending from yoke 47) engagement. Of course, the arrangement of pins 10904 and grooves 10906 may be switched. The pin 10904 and groove 10906 may be configured to limit twisting of the blade cartridge support member 24/blade cartridge 22 relative to the handle 60 to less than 360°, such as less than 270° or less than 180°. The behavior when two DM magnets 10602, 10606 are manipulated in this way is caused by the DM magnets 10602, 10606 being in tangential contact with each other. When the DM magnets 10602, 10606 are twisted together so that their axes are no longer parallel (as schematically shown in FIG. 110), the DM magnets 10602, 10606 will have the same polarities between them that occur when the axes are parallel. DM magnets 10602, 10606 tend to return to a position where the axes are parallel as they are pulled to have the maximum contact area of .

[00352] Referring now to Figures 111-113, another embodiment featuring two or more DM magnets is schematically illustrated. As best shown in FIGS. 111 and 112, the one or more handle DM magnets 11102 are permanently and fixedly coupled, fixed and/or otherwise attached to the distal end 9804 of the handle 60. and the one or more blade cartridge support DM magnets 11106 are permanently and fixedly coupled, secured to a portion of the blade cartridge support member 24 (e.g., but not limited to the yoke 47), and / or otherwise attached. DM magnets 11102, 11106 may include any size, shape, and/or configuration described herein.

[00353] In the illustrated embodiment, the DM magnets 11102, 11106 are arranged such that the plane 11109 (see, e.g., FIG. 112) is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the handle 60 (e.g., the longitudinal axis of the collar) and The top and bottom surfaces 9801, 9803 of the handle 60 are aligned so as to be substantially parallel. The DM magnets 11102, 11106 are oriented concentrically and their poles are 180 degrees opposite each other. This is the predetermined resting position due to the forces that attract each pair of opposite poles to each other. One or more of the DM magnets 11102, 11106 may be at least partially received within the cavity, the one or more of the DM magnets 11102, 11106 concentrically aligning the DM magnets 11102, 11106 to: It may partially extend outwardly from a portion of its respective component (eg, handle 60 and blade cartridge support member 24) so as to be at least partially receivable in the cavity.

[00354] When the blade cartridge support member 24/blade cartridge 22 and handle 60 are rotated relative to each other about the shared axis of the DM magnets 11102, 11106, the poles of the DM magnets 11102, 11106 move circumferentially away from each other. Released so that the DM magnets 11102, 11106 are torqued as they attempt to return the two components (eg, handle 60 and blade cartridge support member 24) to their predetermined rest positions. For example, for the small angular displacement shown in FIG. 113, the DM magnets 11102, 11106 tend to remain coaxial throughout the displacement such that the mechanical pivot feature is optional. For larger angular displacements this effect diminishes and a mechanical pivot may be required. In such a case, the ring DM magnets 11102, 11106 (as opposed to the disc DM magnets 11102, 11106) protrude from one component through this mechanical pivot, i. It offers the advantage of a natural location for Installation and removal procedures for handle 60 and blade cartridge support member 24 may vary depending on whether a mechanical pivot feature was present. Without such features, the two DM magnets 11102, 11106 can approach each other either radially or axially and eventually naturally adopt a predetermined rest position. If a mechanical pivot feature is present, the two DM magnets 11102, 11106 may need to be attached to each other via axial motion.

[00355] As can be appreciated, any one or more of the DM magnets described in this or any other embodiment are one or more programmable magnets (PM ). The PM may allow multiple stable balance positions instead of only one, which index or detent as the blade cartridge support member 24 rotates about the common axis of the magnets. will have the effect of The blade cartridge support member 24 can then be placed in any one of several positions for optimum shaving results. The number of possible positions, and thus the magnetic detent system solution, is limited only by the maximum number of pole segments that can be applied to the magnet.

[00356] An alternative embodiment is similar to the embodiment described above with respect to FIGS. 11406 is constrained to rotate about a fixed axis relative to handle 60 so that it no longer rolls around the circumference of handle DM magnet 11402 . This is accomplished through the use of a modified "ball and socket" design 11502 (best seen in FIG. 114) in which movement of the blade cartridge support member 24 is restricted to a single plane. A disc or ring shaped blade cartridge support DM magnet 11406 sits in a mating socket in the handle 60 . That predetermined rest position is a result of the tendency of the two DM magnets 11402, 11406 to align such that their opposite poles align as closely together as possible. When sideways rotation is applied as in FIG. 114, the user experiences resistance to movement and when the blade cartridge support member 24 is released, the blade cartridge support member 24 displaces the DM magnets 11402, 11406 relative to each other. As a result, it assumes its predetermined rest position relative to the handle 60 .

[00357] The blade cartridge support member 24 is a yoke and blade assembly that allows the blade cartridge 22 to rotate relative to the yoke 47/arm 30 and return to a known location (initial starting position or ISP). Although the above embodiment is shown including cartridge 22, this is not a limitation of the disclosure unless specifically claimed to be so. Attaching the blade cartridge 22 to the yoke 47/arm 30, and restricting and controlling the rotation of the blade cartridge 22 within the yoke 47/arm 30 may be mechanical devices such as, but not limited to, physical axle features. and RDP (elastically deformable pawls) or any magnetic configuration described herein, including (but not limited to) alternating attracting/repelling magnets, multi-pole or programmable magnets, etc. It can be achieved in a number of ways. An embodiment is a single-sided blade cartridge whose ISP is a pair of repelling magnets 11410, 11412, one 11410 located on the back 11409 of the blade cartridge 22 and the other 11412 on the major edge of the center web of the yoke 47. Although described using a single-sided blade cartridge defined by a pair of repelling magnets 11410, 11412 located, this is for illustrative purposes only and any configuration described herein may be used. . The repelling magnet 11412 is not necessarily a separate magnet in the assembly, rather one of the magnets 11402, 11406 in the handle 60 or blade cartridge support member 24 connection to create a repelling magnetic force with the magnet 11410 in the blade cartridge 22. Note that it can be used

[00358] Referring now to FIGS. 115-118, the two components are securely fixed to each other but are capable of rotating relative to each other about multiple axes with a tendency to return to a predetermined rest position. , a diametrically magnetized (DM) ring for achieving attachment between the two components so that it can be manually separated when sufficient force is applied during replacement of a used head assembly 20 with a new one, for example. and/or multiple pairs of disc magnets are shown (eg, without limitation, razor handle 60 and blade cartridge support member 24).

[00359] As discussed herein, DM cylindrical magnets coaxially position themselves so that opposite poles are adjacent when allowed to come in close proximity with planar sides facing each other. align. Additionally, if one DM magnet is rotatably displaced from its rest position relative to the other, it returns to its rest position in a manner that closely mimics the behavior of a spring.

[00360] Through the use of two or more pairs of DM magnets 11702, 11704, the blade cartridge support member 24 moves from a first position (as shown schematically in FIG. 116 to a second position using the first one (as shown schematically in FIG. 116) and finally using a second pair of DM magnets 11704 (as shown schematically in FIG. 117). (as shown) can be rotated to a third position. A first pair of DM magnets 11702 may form a yoke junction and a second pair of DM magnets 11704 may form a central joint.

[00361] In the illustrated embodiment, a yoke joint 11706 (see, eg, FIG. 116) connects the blade cartridge support member 24/yoke 47 to a portion of the intermediate knuckle 11708. As shown in FIG. The blade cartridge support member 24/yoke 47 and the first portion of the intermediate knuckle 11708 each include one of the at least one DM magnets 11710, 11712 of the first pair of DM magnets 11702, respectively. DM magnets 11710, 11712 tend to keep the blade cartridge support member 24 and intermediate knuckle 11708 assembled in a predetermined rest position (as shown schematically in FIG. 115), but the blade cartridge support member 24 can be twisted about the shared axis of the DM magnets 11710, 11712 relative to the middle knuckle 11708 by a user applying torque to the blade cartridge support member 24 in the direction of generally arrow 11714. FIG. When the force is released, the tendency of the DM magnets 11710, 11712 to align their poles adjacently creates a torque that causes the blade cartridge support member 24 to return to its predetermined rest position relative to the intermediate knuckle 11708. Let

A central joint 11716 includes a second pair of DM magnets 11704 and connects the middle knuckle 11708 to the razor handle 60 . The second portion of the middle knuckle 11708 and the handle 60 each include one of the at least one DM magnets 11718, 11720 of the second pair of DM magnets 11704, respectively. Of course, middle knuckle 11708 may be considered part of handle 60 . For example, a portion of handle 60 including middle knuckle 11708 and DM magnet 11720 may form first and second portions 11701 , 11703 of the collar of handle 60 .

[00363] Similar to the yoke joint 11706, the DM magnets 11718, 11720 are assembled with the portions 11701, 11703 in a predetermined rest position such that the position of the blade cartridge 22 relative to the handle 60 is similar to that of a conventional razor. 115 (as schematically shown in FIG. 115). A user may orient the blade cartridge support member 24/blade cartridge 22 downward or upward, but as a result of the tendency of the DM magnets 11718, 11720 to align their poles adjacently, there is a spring resistance to this movement. When the blade cartridge 22 is released, it returns to its predetermined rest position.

[00364] Given small angular displacements for both the yoke and center joints 11706, 11716, the DM magnets remain coaxial throughout the displacement so that the mechanical pivot feature is optional. have a tendency. For larger angular displacements this effect diminishes and a mechanical pivot can be used. In such cases, the DM ring magnet (as opposed to the DM disk magnet) is a natural magnet for this mechanical pivot, a pin that protrudes from one component through the inner diameter of both magnets and acts as an axle. can offer the advantage of a convenient location. The attachment and detachment procedures for the two parts can vary depending on whether a mechanical pivot feature was present. Without such a feature, the two DM magnets can approach each other either radially or axially and eventually naturally adopt a predetermined rest position. If a mechanical pivot feature is present, the two DM magnets may need to be attached to each other via axial motion.

[00365] Due to the tendency of the DM magnets to assume a predetermined rest position at both joints 11706, 11716, it is possible for the user to make a decision (shown to resemble a conventional razor configuration for illustrative purposes only). If it is desired to use the razor 10 in a configuration different from the predetermined rest position, a method of locking the joints may be used. One possible locking system includes two shaving modes, "face mode" and "body mode." In face mode, the center joint 11716 may be locked in its predetermined rest position, but the yoke joint 11706 may be allowed to rotate to a limited degree. This mode is illustrated in FIG. The body mode (eg, as shown schematically in FIG. 117) positions both joints 11706, 11716 such that the blade cartridge support member 24 rotation axis within the yoke 47 is parallel to the handle longitudinal axis L. It can be adopted through a 90 degree rotation. Since the DM magnet in this state is attempting to return both joints 11706, 11716 to their predetermined rest positions, a mechanical lock is required to keep both joints 11706, 11716 in the 90 degree position. may be used. The process of changing between face mode and body mode involves two actions. 117 and 2) rotating the yoke joint 11706 90 degrees (shown in FIG. 116), the resulting configuration is shown in FIG. ing. These two operations can be performed in either order.

[00366] Referring to FIG. 118, the blade cartridge support member 24 has one or more grooves at least partially received within one or more restricted cavities or grooves 12004 formed in the intermediate knuckle 11708 (eg, portion 11701). A plurality of limiting protrusions 12002 may be included. Similarly, the handle 60 (eg, portion 11703) has one or more restriction grooves at least partially received within one or more restriction cavities or grooves 12008 formed in the intermediate knuckle 11708 (eg, portion 11701). A protrusion 12006 may be included. Of course, the arrangement of limiting projections 12002, 12006 and limiting grooves 12004, 12008 relative to blade cartridge support member 24, intermediate knuckle 11708 (portion 11701), and/or handle 60 (portion 11703) may be reversed. good. Limiting protrusions 12002, 12006 and limiting grooves 12004, 12008 may limit movement of the yoke and center joints 11706, 11716 to a predetermined range. As can be appreciated, the predetermined range need not be symmetrical about the predetermined rest position. Thus, the limiting protrusions 12002, 12006 and limiting grooves 12004, 12008 may allow, for example, 90 degrees of rotation in one direction and less than 20 degrees in the opposite direction (these values are for illustrative purposes only). belongs to).

[00367] Of course, any one of the DM magnets may be replaced by one or more programmable magnets (PM) comprising multiple pole segments. The result is multiple stable equilibrium positions instead of only one, which can provide an indexing or detent effect as the blade cartridge support member 24 rotates about the common axis of the magnets. be. The blade cartridge support member 24 can thus be placed in any one of several positions for optimum shaving results. The number of possible positions, and thus the magnetic detent system solution, is limited only by the maximum number of pole segments that can be applied to the magnet.

[00368] The blade cartridge support member 24 is a yoke and blade assembly that allows the blade cartridge 22 to rotate relative to the yoke 47/arm 30 and return to a known location (initial starting position or ISP). Although the above embodiment is shown including cartridge 22, this is not a limitation of the disclosure unless specifically claimed to be so. The blade cartridge 22 may be single-sided, or it may be double-sided. Attachment of the blade cartridge 22 to the yoke 47/arm 30 and restriction and control of rotation of the blade cartridge 22 within the yoke 47/arm 30 can be mechanical devices such as, but not limited to, physical axle features and Any number described herein, including RDP (Resiliently Deformable Pawl) or magnetic configurations, such as (but not limited to) alternating attracting/repelling magnets, multi-pole or programmable magnets, etc. can be achieved in the manner of For example (and without limitation), the blade cartridge 22 includes a double-sided cartridge head whose ISP is determined by a pair of multi-pole magnets located concentrically with respect to the axis of rotation of the blade cartridge. obtain.

[00369] As described herein (e.g., without limitation, see FIG. 82), a hovering/levitation effect (e.g., without limitation, a handle) between two components 60 and the blade cartridge support member 24). 119-124, between two parts of a razor (such as, but not limited to, a blade cartridge) that allows movement in two degrees of freedom (angular and axial). 12102, 12104, an embodiment of a razor 10 having at least two coaxial, diametrically magnetized magnets 12102, 12104 to achieve a levitation effect (between the support member 24 and the handle 60). The razor 10 may additionally include the use of repulsive magnetic forces between the DM magnets 12102, 12104 to achieve both lockout and release effects between the two parts.

[00370] In particular, the razor 10 may be one razor component (eg, without limitation, the handle 60) and another component (eg, without limitation, the blade cartridge support member 24). Includes a diametrically magnetized (DM) disk magnet 12102 attached to one razor part positioned coaxially with an attached diametrically magnetized (DM) ring magnet 12104, the poles being opposite the two DM magnets 12102, 12104 poles of the ring DM magnet 12104 toward each other at the inner diameter of the ring DM magnet 12104, the effect is that the DM magnet 11204 of the blade cartridge support member 24 and the disk of the handle 60 at the point where the DM magnets 12102, 12104 are coplanar. The DM magnet 12102 is to be balanced, levitated or hovering.

[00371] According to one embodiment, the blade cartridge support member 24 may include a cavity 12502 (best seen in Fig. 123A) and the handle 60 may include an axially outwardly extending post 12504. . The post 12504 can include a disk DM magnet 12102 and is hollow 12502 such that the opposite poles of the two DM magnets 12102, 12104 are aligned at the ID of the ring DM magnet 12104 (eg, levitation position). DM disk magnets 12102 may be configured to be at least partially received within cavity 12502, which may include DM disk magnets 12102 so that they may be aligned to face each other. Cavity 12502 can also be configured to allow post 12504 to continue moving forward beyond the levitation position, as described herein. Of course, the arrangement of DM disk magnets 12102 and DM ring magnets 12104 and cavities 12502 and posts 12504 may be reversed and additional combinations of DM disk magnets 12102 and DM ring magnets 12104 may be included.

[00372] If a suitable gap is provided between the mating surfaces 12506, 12508 of the blade cartridge support member 24 and the handle 60 (best seen in Fig. 123B), the blade cartridge support member 24 will move to the equilibrium point following deflection. It always returns and appears to float axially relative to the handle 60 thus giving the impression that the razor 10 has a small shock absorber between the blade cartridge support member 24 and the handle 60 . When the blade cartridge support member 24 is subjected to a small axial and/or angular displacement about the shared axis of the DM magnets 12102, 12104 (as shown schematically in FIG. 120), the two DM magnets The suction forces at 12102, 12104 return the blade cartridge support member 24 to its original angular position at the equilibrium point (as shown schematically in Figure 119). The range of axial and/or angular displacement within which the attractive force of the two DM magnets 12102, 12104 causes the two portions to return to their original juxtaposition is referred to as the "return range." Called.

[00373] Optionally, the post 12504 includes a guide pin 12510 (best seen in FIGS. 123A and 123B) received within a lockout and/or ejection chamber or groove 12512 located in the blade cartridge support member 24. can contain. For example, lockout and/or release chambers or grooves 12512 may include openings that allow guide pins 12510 to be received therein. Once inside the lockout and/or release chamber or groove 12512, movement of the guide pin 12510 (and thus the handle 60 relative to the blade cartridge support member 24) is within the return range except for the two situations outlined below. Constrained (eg, mechanically constrained) to preserve relative motion of the two parts.

[00374] The lockout and/or release chamber or groove 12512 may include one or more different regions or areas that allow predetermined movement and/or movement of the blade cartridge support member 24 relative to the handle 60. substantially prevent (eg, substantially secure, retain, and/or lock) the For example, one embodiment of a lockout and/or release chamber or groove 12512 is shown schematically in Figures 123C and 123D. As can be appreciated, the lockout and/or ejection chambers or grooves 12512 may extend radially about a portion of the blade cartridge support member 24. FIG. 123C shows return area 12514, lockout area 12516, and/or release area 12518 (allowing guide pin 12510 to either enter and/or exit lockout and/or release chamber or groove 12512). 12512 and FIG. 123D schematically shows guide pins 12510 located at different positions within areas 12514, 12516, 12518. FIG. FIG. 123E shows a guide pin 12510 plus a lockout (eg, having a 90 degree lockout) and/or a return range 12514, a release range 12518, and/or an alternative lockout range 12516 (eg, 0 degrees). 12512 shows an alternative embodiment of a discharge chamber or groove 12512 having a lockout of . It should be appreciated that while guide pins 12510 are shown in FIGS. 123D and 123E as being positioned in more than one range at a time, this is for illustrative purposes only and guide pins 12510 may be positioned at any given It can only be in one range at a time.

[00375] In the absence of mechanical constraints, when a sufficiently angular displacement is applied to the blade cartridge support member 24, the "return range" 12514 is exceeded and the DM magnets 12102, 12104 are forced to repel each other. start taking position. In the case of a diametrically magnetized disk/ring pair 12102, 12104, the effect of this repulsion is to impart axial motion such that the two DM magnets 12102, 12104 no longer remain coplanar. Similarly, in the absence of mechanical constraints, this axial motion would occur equally in either direction. One possible direction of axial movement has the effect of pulling the two parts together, the other has the effect of pushing them apart. With the addition of mechanical constraints (eg, guide pins 12510 and lockout and/or release chambers or grooves 12512), the direction of axial movement that occurs upon exiting the return range can be controlled based on user input.

[00376] Referring now to FIG. 121, the razor 10 will operate when the blade cartridge support member 24 is inverted in one particular direction (eg, but not limited to, clockwise in the illustrated embodiment). , in a position/alignment that encourages the two parts (eg, blade cartridge support member 24 and handle 60) to come together. A guide pin 12510 on the handle 60 (e.g., post 12504) hits a ramp within the lockout extent 12516 of the lockout and/or ejection chamber or groove 12512, which forces the handle 60 and blade cartridge support member 24 into the As the rotation continues towards each other, the gap is completely closed, leading to a point where the parts come into intimate contact after turning 90 degrees relative to each other. The result is a "lockout" or elimination of any axial or rotational levitation effect. As shown in FIGS. 121, 123C-D, the lockout may optionally include a detent feature to overcome the lockout and return the blade cartridge support member 24 to a buoyant state. , the blade cartridge support member 24 must be manually pulled away from the handle 60 .

[00377] Referring now to FIG. 122, the razor 10 is shown in a position/alignment that biases the components (eg, the blade cartridge support member 24 and the handle 60) axially apart. In this case, when the blade cartridge support member 24 is rotated in one particular direction (eg, but not limited to, counterclockwise in this embodiment), the guide pin 12510 will engage the blade cartridge support member 24 and the handle. It hits ramps in emission range 12518 that push 60 away from each other. Because of the interaction of the DM magnets 12102, 12104, if the guide pin 12510 is given a suitable escape path, this feature will drive the parts to the point where they are forced apart creating a "release" effect. can be designed to If both of these systems (e.g., lockout and release) are incorporated into a single device, and "lockout" and "release" occur when the blade cartridge support member 24 is rotated in two different directions. 123B and 123D, the guide pin 12510 can be in three different ranges—the return range 12514, the lockout range 12516, or the release range 12518. In this scenario, the user may select the motion to impart based on which direction the user rotates blade cartridge support member 24 relative to handle 60 .

[00378] As noted above, Fig. 123E also shows an alternative lockout mechanism in which the lockout position is substantially identical to the nominal levitation position. This can be useful if the user wishes to use the razor 10 in a conventional orientation, but the shock absorbing effects inherent in this design are temporarily negated. In this case (e.g., "0 lockout"), the lockout consists of turning the blade cartridge support member 24 counterclockwise, pushing it inward toward the handle 60, turning it clockwise as far as possible. Accomplished by sequentially turning and releasing it. At that time, the guide pin 12510 is guided to follow a U-shaped path to the lockout position 12516 and the blade cartridge support member 24 is at the same angle as it was initially. Releasing the blade cartridge support member 24 from this lockout position 12516 may involve reversing the above steps to return the guide pin 12510 to the return range 12514 .

[00379] The razor 10 is a double-sided blade cartridge 22 that pivots about a pivot axis PA located at its geometric center relative to the arm 30, is user selectable, and is 180 degrees apart. Although shown with a double-sided blade cartridge 22 (including a blade cartridge support member 24 and a blade cartridge 22) head assembly 20 having two positions of stable equilibrium (initial starting position or ISP), this is specifically shown. DM magnets (and any of the associated described features) may be used with any of the blade cartridges described herein, without limiting the disclosure unless expressly claimed to do so. Additionally, rotation (and its control) can be controlled by any of the resistive pivoting mechanisms described herein, such as, but not limited to, RDP (elastically deformable pawls) or magnetic means, such as (Fig. 119-123), multi-pole or programmable magnets, etc.

[00380] Additionally, any side of the blade cartridge 22 may have multiple blades angled in the same direction (as in a conventional razor used for face mode) (used for body mode). one face with an equal number of blades, with half of the blades angled in one direction and half in the other (to allow shaving in any direction as desired) and/or or on one or more sides. In such scenarios, it may be advantageous for the user to use one of the two cartridge head positions when the cartridge is in its buoyant state and the other when it is locked out. Understandable. The system can further be placed in a second fixed position - 'body mode' (Fig. 124). This embodiment optionally has a mechanical pivot 12602 that can be locked 90° down from the conventional handle position (FIG. 119) or the face mode and yoke/cartridge head assembly 90° lockout position (FIG. 121). may include a handle/collar with a The process of changing between face mode and body mode consists of two actions: 1) rotating the collar joint 90 degrees as shown in FIG. 124 and 2) rotating the yoke joint 90 degrees. 121 and the resulting configuration is shown in FIG. These two operations can be performed in either order.

[00381] As mentioned above, although a double-sided blade cartridge 22 is shown, this is for illustrative purposes only and the blade cartridge may include a single-sided cartridge head. In such a case, the cartridge head can pivot on an axis fixed between the yoke arms 30 near one longitudinal edge of the blade cartridge support member 24 . A single-sided cartridge ISP includes, but is not limited to, a magnetic arrangement, such as a pair of repelling magnets, one behind the cartridge head and the other on the major edge of the web over the yoke arm. It can be determined in one of several ways described herein, including configuration.

[00382] Referring to FIGS. 125-136, various embodiments of razor 10 including magnets for positioning and controlling rotating blade cartridge 22 within blade cartridge support member 24 (eg, yoke 47) are schematically illustrated. shown. The blade cartridge 22 may be located at the end of the arm 30 of the yoke 47 and rotates about a pivot axis PA fixed with respect to the arm 30, with a user-selected stable equilibrium (180 degrees apart). It may include two orientations of the initial starting position, also called ISP. When in either of these orientations, the blade cartridge 22 may be biased to return to its ISP when subjected to small (<90 degree) angular displacements during, for example, a shaving stroke; The torque required to accomplish this is produced by a combination of magnets and/or ferrous elements instead of conventional cartridge biasing mechanisms. Limitation and control of rotation of the blade cartridge 22 within the blade cartridge support member 24 may be achieved by mechanical means such as, but not limited to, physical axle features and RDP (Resiliently Deformable Pawl) or magnetic arrangements. , for example, alternating attracting/repelling magnets, multi-polar or programmable magnets, etc., in any number of ways described herein.

[00383] Referring now to Figures 125-126, one embodiment of a razor 10 having a resistance pivot mechanism consistent with that described above is schematically illustrated. As shown, one or more fixed arm magnets 12702 (eg, but not limited to disk magnets) are located within one or more of the two arms 30 of the blade cartridge support member 24. . The arm magnet 12702 may be positioned off-axis with respect to the pivot axis PA and its orientation is known. Ring magnets 12704, diametrically magnetized in four quadrants, alternating between north and south, may be positioned within and secured to one or more of the lateral edges of the blade cartridge 22; It generally points towards the fixed arm magnet 12702 .

[00384] Due to the off-axis position of the arm magnets 12702, the arm magnets 12702 can rely on quadrants of the ring magnets 12704 adjacent the arm magnets 12702 to transmit torque to the blade cartridge 22. As a result, the ring magnets 12704 are such that when the blade cartridge 22 is in one of its two ISPs, the quadrant of each ring magnet 12704 adjacent to its corresponding arm magnet 12702 is aligned with the adjacent face of the disk magnet 12704. oriented to be of opposite polarity. As a result, the blade cartridge 22 is urged back to its nearest (and nearest) ISP when subjected to a small rotational displacement about its pivot axis PA.

[00385] To switch between the two possible ISPs, the user intentionally rotates the blade cartridge 22 about the pivot axis PA to more than 90 degrees of rotation in either direction, at which angle the ring magnet There is a point of unstable equilibrium where like poles of 12704 and fixed arm magnet 12702 are adjacent and therefore repel each other. This state is shown in FIG. In the absence of an influential source of friction, it would be nearly impossible to balance the blade cartridge 22 at one of these unstable equilibrium points, so the blade cartridge 22 would, of course, remain at this point. and come to rest at the next ISP, which is a stable equilibrium point 180 degrees away from the preceding ISP. Assuming magnets 12702, 12704 of sufficient strength, this same behavior is on only one side of the blade cartridge 22 and on both the blade cartridge 22 and the lateral ends of the arm 30 as shown schematically. Note that it may be possible to achieve this with magnets 12702, 12704 in one arm 30 of the blade cartridge support member 24, rather than.

[00386] Referring now to Figures 127-128, another embodiment of a razor 10 having a resistance pivot mechanism consistent with that described above is schematically illustrated. As shown, one or more fixed arm magnets 12902 are located within one or more of the two arms 30 of the blade cartridge support member 24 and are oblong, elliptical, and/or elongated. can have Arm magnet 12902 may be magnetized throughout the thickness (depth) of the magnet. The arm magnet 12902 may be at least partially off-axis with respect to the pivot axis PA and its orientation is known. Blade cartridge magnets 12904 may be disposed within and secured to one or more of the lateral edges of blade cartridge 22 and point generally toward fixed arm magnets 12902 . The blade cartridge magnet 12904 may also have an oblong, elliptical, and/or elongated shape, although the blade cartridge magnet 12904 may have a length 12906 that is longer than the length 12908 of the arm magnet 12902. The blade cartridge magnet 12904 may be magnetized throughout the thickness (depth) of the magnet.

[00387] In this embodiment, the magnets 12902, 12904 are always oriented with opposite poles facing each other, so the repelling properties of the magnets 12902, 12904 are not used. This configuration is shown in FIG. Magnet 12904 in blade cartridge 22 may be centered on pivot axis PA and oriented such that length 12906 of magnet 12904 is parallel to width 12910 of blade cartridge 22 . The magnets 12904 in the blade cartridge support member 24/arm 30 are shorter and are positioned behind the pivot axis PA to surround it. The drive torque that induces the blade cartridge 22 to take one of the two ISPs derives from the tendency of the magnets 12902, 12904 to align such that the mating surfaces have maximum overlap area. The area of overlap between the magnets 12902, 12904 is reduced because the long axes of the magnet shapes are no longer aligned when an angular displacement is applied to the blade cartridge 22. FIG. If the angular displacement is small (as shown in FIG. 128), the blade cartridge 22 will return to its nearest (and closest) ISP when released. Similar to the above embodiment, an unstable equilibrium position exists when the magnets 12902, 12904 are oriented at 90 degrees to each other. Therefore, when the displacement exceeds 90 degrees, the blade cartridge 22 moves to the other ISP, which is a stable equilibrium point 180 degrees away from the preceding ISP.

[00388] Referring now to Fig. 129, there is schematically shown yet another embodiment of a razor 10 having a resistance pivot mechanism consistent with that described above. This embodiment is similar to any of FIGS. 125-126 and/or FIGS. 127-128, but the magnets are one integrally molded to the blade cartridge 22 and/or arm 30, respectively. or may be replaced with multiple magnetized, nanotube-enhanced thermoplastic zones 13102, 13104; Regions 13102, 13104 shown in FIG. 129 are for illustrative purposes only. The indicated regions 13102, 13104 may not be detectable or visible in the final product. These regions 13102, 13104 can be programmed so that opposite poles face each other across the gap between the inner surface of the yoke arm 30 and the side of the blade cartridge 22, so no repulsion is used and the blade cartridge 22 The behavior of is driven as a whole by varying levels of attraction between zones. The ISP is determined by the overlap between the magnetization zones 13102, 13104 and thus the blade cartridge 22 position where the attractive force is maximum. When small rotational displacements (<90 degrees) are applied to the blade cartridge 22, such as in the embodiment of FIGS. Helps return cartridge 22 to its nearest (and nearest) ISP. When the blade cartridge 22 is rotated 90 degrees from the ISP, it encounters an unstable equilibrium position and moves to the other ISP, which is a stable equilibrium point 180 degrees away from the preceding ISP. .

[00389] Referring now to Fig. 130, an additional embodiment of a razor 10 having a resistance pivot mechanism consistent with that described above is schematically illustrated. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment described in Figures 127-128, but one or more of the oblong magnets in the blade cartridge 22 and/or arm 30 may be replaced with iron elements. In the illustrated embodiment, the blade cartridge magnets 12904 in the blade cartridge 22 have been replaced with iron elements 13202, although it should be appreciated that the arm magnets 12902 may be replaced with iron elements and the blade cartridge magnets 12904 remain. may

[00390] The embodiment described in FIGS. 127-128 does not use repulsion, and the behavior of the blade cartridge 22 in FIG. It is feasible to replace one set of magnets 12902, 12904 with the iron bar 13202 as governed by varying levels of attractive forces with the iron element 13202. While this provides similar performance to the paired magnet 12902, 12904 scenario characterized in FIGS. 127-128, it may offer benefits in terms of cost and manufacturability.

[00391] As described above, the combination of magnets (either magnet 12902 or magnet 12904) is positioned at both ends of arm 30 and blade cartridge 22 (as shown schematically in FIG. 130), or as shown schematically in FIG. can be located on a single arm 30 and a single end of the blade cartridge 22 as shown. 132-133, the configuration of FIG. 130 can be modified to remove arms 30 that do not contain magnets. In this embodiment, the blade cartridge 22 is constrained and controlled by a single yoke arm 30 and the pivot axis PA does not span the distance between two symmetrical yoke arms 30 as shown schematically in FIG. Rather, one end protrudes from the arm 30 end. Pivot axis PA for blade cartridge 22 may be designed to allow blade cartridge 22 to slide out of axle 13502 as shown schematically in FIG. In this case, the magnetic elements (e.g., magnets in arm 30 and iron bars and/or magnets in blade cartridge 22) not only help angularly position blade cartridge 22 with respect to arm 30, but also position blade cartridge 22. It also helps to keep it on the arm 30 . To replace the blade cartridge 22, pull laterally on the used blade cartridge 22 to overcome the magnetic resistance, slide the blade cartridge 22 off the axle 13502, and slide a new blade cartridge 22. It is a simple thing to wear. Due to the magnetic attraction between the arm magnet 12902 and the body iron element 13202, the new blade cartridge 22 laterally chooses its proper position and automatically chooses one of the two ISPs.

[00392] The razor 10 of FIGS. This includes, but is not limited to, magnetic configurations (e.g., but not limited to mating diametrically magnetized (DM) discs and/or rings or magnetic detent/snap systems) or mechanical/magnetic configurations, such as It can be accomplished in one of several ways described herein, including a modified twist/lock/release system. Additionally (or alternatively), only the blade cartridge 22 may be replaced and the blade cartridge support member 24 may remain permanently coupled/integrated with the handle 60 . In such embodiments, part or all of the blade cartridge support member 24 would remain with the handle 60 rather than being discarded with the blade cartridge 22 when the blade cartridge 22 is being replaced. These variations offer the advantage of reduced material usage and part count in the disposable portion of the razor system.

[00393] Referring now to Figures 134-135, a variation of the embodiment of Figure 130 is schematically illustrated. The blade cartridge 22 is substantially permanently attached to the blade cartridge support member 24 in the embodiment of FIGS. 127-128, while the pivot axle 13602 of FIGS. A passage/groove/slot 13604 is provided in the arm 30 and/or the magnet 13606 to allow the blade cartridge 22 and axle 13602 to be removed from the arm 30 . In one embodiment, slot 13604 may include a blind slot that extends through the end of arm 30 and terminates at the desired axis of rotation. The blade cartridge 22, in addition to the yoke magnet 13606 being behind the pivot axis PA and determining ISP, also pulls the blade cartridge 22 into the arm 30 until the axle 13602 reaches the end of the blind slot 13604. It may be held magnetically in the arm 30 due to the fact that it is prone. Replacing the blade cartridge 22 involves pulling the used blade cartridge 22 away from the handle 60 to overcome the magnetic resistance and removing the blade cartridge 22 and axle 13602 as shown schematically in FIG. , may include sliding the axle 13602 of the new blade cartridge 22 into the slot 13604 . Of course, the iron elements 13202 of the blade cartridge 22 may be replaced with one or more magnets and the yoke magnets 13606 may be replaced with iron elements.

[00394] Referring now to Fig. 136, a further embodiment of a razor 10 having a resistance pivot mechanism consistent with that described above is schematically illustrated. The razor 10 includes a two-piece arm 30 having a first portion 13802 permanently coupled to the blade cartridge support member 24 and a second portion 13804 rotatably (or pivotally) coupled to the blade cartridge 22. including. A first portion 13802 of the arm 30 includes an arm magnet 13806 aligned with the arm magnet 12902 whose poles are fixed to provide an attractive magnetic force to couple the blade cartridge 22 to the blade cartridge support member 24 .

[00395] For example, a tenon and mortise feature pair may be used to attach each yoke arm tip (eg, second portion 13804) to the yoke frame (eg, first portion 13802). good. Since the yoke arm tips 13804 already have magnets 12902 present for the purpose of locating the blade cartridge 22 (see, eg, the embodiment of FIG. 130), these magnets are provided with additional magnets or ferrous elements 13806 can also be used to hold the yoke arm tip 13804 in place when the is positioned in the yoke frame 13802 at the point of contact between the frame and the tip. In this case, removal of the blade cartridge 22 is directed away from the handle 60 to overcome the attraction between the magnets 12902 at the yoke arm tips 13804 and the magnets or ferrous elements 13806 at the yoke frame 13802. and sliding the tenon and tenon features apart. The new blade cartridge 22 aligns the tenon and mortise features of both yoke arm tips 13804 with their corresponding features on the yoke frame 13802, and the magnetic attraction between the elements on the tips 13804 and frame 13802 attaches. can be installed by allowing the This embodiment may include magnets in both yoke arms 30 (if two arms 30 are present) only because they are used to secure the yoke arm tips 13804 to the frame 13802. yoke arm tips 13804 in the same orientation relative to the blade cartridge 22 as they may be required to properly and simultaneously engage the tenon and mortise features on each side during installation of a new blade cartridge 22. It is also because it helps to align with

[00396] Referring now to FIG. 137, one embodiment of razor 10 includes nanotube sheets, strips or threads 13902 incorporated into disposable head assembly 20 (eg, without limitation, blade cartridge 22). , is shown schematically. The nanotube sheet, strip or thread 13902 can be energized with electrical current to warm the user's skin during shaving. Warmth from the nanotube sheet, strip or thread 13902 is transmitted through the IR emission band. For example, far-infrared radiation (FIR) conveys energy in the form of pure heat that thermoreceptors in human skin can perceive and feel almost immediately. FIR is experienced by the user's body as weak radiant heat that can penetrate up to 1.5″ below the skin. FIR is absorbed and radiated by the human body, so the heat generated by nanotubes is natural and potential Nanotube fibers have been successfully impregnated into fabrics, wraps, and clothing to deliver FIR to derive health benefits from its effects. Importantly, the nanotube sheet, strip or thread 13902 is not used to heat any portion of the razor 10, but rather only the user's skin. may feel “cool” (e.g. ambient temperature) to the touch.

[00397] A power source (e.g., a battery) supplies electrical power to nanotube sheets, strips or threads 13902 mounted on, in, or near the face of blade cartridge 22, for example, as shown schematically in FIG. can be directly connected. Heating may be controlled by the user through activation of electrical switches located on razor 10 (eg, handle 60 and/or head assembly 20). A battery or another power source may be located within or external to some section of the razor assembly (e.g., handle 60), and current may be supplied via wires or other electrical connections to the nanotube sheets, strips, etc. or may flow through thread 13902 . Nanotube sheet, strip or thread 13902 may be attached to any head assembly 20 described herein.

[00398] Referring to FIGS. 137 and 138, another embodiment of a resistance pivot mechanism and coupling mechanism is schematically illustrated. In particular, pivot axle 14002 (best seen in FIG. 138) may comprise a ferrous material secured to blade cartridge 22 . A U-shaped or slotted magnet 14004 is attached to the tip of the yoke arm 30 and the shape of the magnet 14004 defines a passageway with an opening that allows the blade cartridge 22 (eg axle 14002) to be removed. . 137 schematically shows the blade cartridge 22 installed/coupled to the blade cartridge support member 24. FIG. The passageway is shown as a blind slot that extends through the end of arm 30 and into magnet 14004, terminating at the desired axis of rotation. Due to the intimate contact between the iron axle 14002 and the U-shaped magnet 14004, the blade cartridge 22 is magnetically held in the arm 30 and the pivot axis PA is at the axle tip at the end of the blind slot. correctly positioned. Replacing the blade cartridge 22 consists of pulling the used blade cartridge 22 away from the handle 60 to overcome the magnetic force binding the iron axle 14002 to the magnet 14004, removing the blade cartridge 22 and axle 14002, and replacing the blade cartridge 22 with a new one. and sliding the axle 14002 of the blade cartridge 22 into the slot. A magnetic attraction between the iron axle 14002 and the slotted magnet 14004 completes the assembly process. Optionally, the assembly and ISP mechanism described above employs a programmed magnetic axle (especially the tip) located in a slotted programmed magnet receptacle (a magnet with a slot for receiving a pivot pin). can be replaced. Although the blade cartridge 22 and blade cartridge support member 24 are shown with a magnetic biasing system (see, eg, magnetic biasing system 14702 shown in FIGS. 145-147), this is Without limiting the disclosure unless so claimed, the razor 10 may include any of the resistance pivot mechanisms described herein.

[00399] Referring now to Figures 139-140, one embodiment of pivotally coupling the blade cartridge 22 to the blade cartridge support member 24 using a plurality of magnets is schematically illustrated. As described herein, the connection between blade cartridge 22 and blade cartridge support member 24 may appear as if blade cartridge 22 is hovering relative to blade cartridge support member 24 .

[00400] In particular, the blade cartridge 22 is rotatable about a pivot axis PA that is fixed with respect to the yoke arm 30, but is subject to small (<90 degree) angular displacements during, for example, a shaving stroke. It has a tendency to return to its initial starting position (ISP). In addition, this behavior is such that the blade cartridge 22 remains centered on its pivot axis PA and is free of conventional mechanical biasing mechanisms, while at the same time being "hovering" (or seemingly hovering). As can be seen), it is desired to be achieved without conventional axle features.

[00401] To provide this effect, a pair of small axially magnetized disc magnets 14206, 14208 are mounted facing each other, magnet 14206 being fixed to the lateral end of blade cartridge 22 and magnet 14208 being attached to yoke arm 30. fixed to These magnets 14206, 14208 are oriented so that they repel each other and they tend to push the blade cartridge 22 away from the yoke arm 30 if there is no identical pair of magnets on opposite sides of the blade cartridge 22. However, due to the pair 14206 , 14208 at the opposite lateral ends, the two repulsive forces cancel each other out, causing the blade cartridge 22 to be centered between the yoke arms 30 .

[00402] In the absence of additional force, the blade cartridge 22 would no longer remain coaxial to the repelling magnet, because its position is one of unstable equilibrium, and the blade cartridge 22 would It is forced radially away from the support member 24 . Surrounding the pair of small axially magnetized disks 14206, 14208, however, is a pair of larger diametrically magnetized rings 14202, 14204 best seen in FIG. One ring 14204 is fixed to the blade cartridge 22 and the other 14202 is fixed to the yoke arm 30 as with the discs 14206 , 14208 . However, the rings 14202, 14204 are oriented so that the opposite poles of the rings 14202, 14204 are adjacent to each other so that they attract when the blade cartridge 22 is at its ISP. This arrangement of diametrically magnetized rings 14202, 14204 (face-to-face stacked) tends to remain coaxially positioned with respect to each other. It is this force that counteracts the radial force imparted by the pair of rebound discs 14206, 14208 and keeps the blade cartridge 22 positioned within the yoke arm 30 on the pivot axis PA. In addition, two stacked diametrically magnetized rings 14202, 14204 positioned with opposite poles adjacent to each other can concentrically rotate even with a limited amount of rotation relative to each other about their shared axis. Remaining positioned, in this state the magnets 14202, 14204, when released, tend to rotate back to their preferred juxtaposition with their opposite poles adjacent. It is this feature that provides the desired biasing behavior as described above. Thus, the role of the inner axially magnetized disc magnets 14206, 14208 is to provide a hovering effect and the role of the outer diametrically magnetized ring magnets 14202, 14204 is to position the blade cartridge 22 on the pivot axis PA. and let it return to its ISP when it undergoes a small rotational displacement.

[00403] A variation of this is to incorporate multipolar or programmed magnetic rings instead of the diametrically magnetized rings 14202,14204. The magnets can be positioned such that their opposite poles are adjacent to each other, such as diametrically magnetized rings 14202, 14204, but there can be more than two poles per magnet. This may result in multiple ISPs, ie positions of stable equilibrium. A special case of this scenario uses a 4-pole ring, resulting in two ISPs 180 degrees apart. This embodiment is particularly suitable for use with a dual-sided cartridge head 22 that can be freely positioned by the user in one of two possible ISPs.

[00404] According to any of the embodiments described herein, the blade cartridge 22 may be replaced in addition to the blade cartridge support member 24, but only the blade cartridge 22 may be removed and the blade cartridge support member 24 may be removed. It is also possible that the member 24 could be integral with the handle 60 .

[00405] Referring to FIG. 141, repelling disc magnets 14206, 14208 are positioned along mating features, such as, but not limited to, pivot axis PA, such that recess 14302 on one magnet and recess 14302 on the other. A ridge 14304 may optionally be included on the magnet. The ridge 14304 is recessed to introduce an additional control element in that the blade cartridge 22 may be allowed a small amount of radial movement relative to the pivot axis PA, but may not be completely removed. It can be configured to be at least partially received within 14302 . In such instances, the blade cartridge support member 24 and blade cartridge 22 may be made as a permanent assembly using, for example, an attachment mechanism between the blade cartridge support member 24 and handle 60 as described above. may

[00406] Referring now to Figures 142-144, another embodiment of a razor 10 that can be selectively positioned in either "face mode" or "body mode" is schematically illustrated. In face mode, the blade cartridge 22 is expected to be perpendicular to the handle 60 in top view and have an ideal starting angle relative to the plane of the non-zero skin surface. In the body mode, the blade cartridge 22 is expected to be best positioned parallel to the handle 60 in top view and parallel to the plane of the skin surface. As described herein, the razor 10 allows for multiple positions of the blade cartridge 22 relative to the handle 60 (e.g., face mode and body mode), and the position of the blade cartridge 22 in either face mode or body mode. A compound curvature track 14402 is included to automatically change the cartridge head ISP (initial starting position) based on where it is. The compound curvature track 14402 thus automatically not only repositions the alignment of the blade cartridge 22 with respect to the handle 60 but also informs the ISP as part of reorienting the blade cartridge 22 with respect to the handle 60 .

[00407] Pivoting of the blade cartridge 22 about the pivot axis PA may be accomplished using any of the embodiments described herein, any of the resistive pivot mechanisms or pivoting mechanisms described herein. Any combination may optionally be included. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, one side of the blade cartridge 22 can include multiple blades angled in the same direction (as in a conventional razor), while the other side is evenly angled. It can contain any number of blades, with half of the blades angled in one direction and half in the other (to allow shaving in either direction). These two sides are called the "face side" and the "body side" respectively.

[00408] Face mode is shown in several views in FIG. 142 and body mode is shown in FIG. The transition between the two modes is through the use of a compound curvature track 14402 comprising pairs of spiral tracks 14404, 14406 (e.g. upper track 14404 and lower track 14406) that traverse compound curves along the perimeter of the blade cartridge support member 24. can be achieved through Engaging these tracks 14404, 14406 are three guide pins 14408a, 14408b, 14408c located in grooves in the collar (attached to the razor handle 60). Two pins 14408a, 14408b engage track 14404 on one side and one pin 14408c engages track 14406 on the other side. As shown in FIGS. 142 and 143, two pins 14408a, 14408b engage the top track 14404 and a single pin 14408c engages the bottom track 14406, although vice versa achieves the same result. be able to. Changing the position of the blade cartridge 22 (eg, from face mode to body mode) involves only sliding the blade cartridge support member 24 through the groove in the collar. Since three points of contact are sufficient to fully position the blade cartridge support member 24, the blade cartridge support member 24 is constrained to change its angle as it is moved through the groove. The helical tracks 14404, 14406 cause the blade cartridge 22 to also change from angled to parallel to the plane of the skin when movement is complete and the blade cartridge 22 position relative to the handle 60 is changed from vertical to parallel. The blade cartridge support member 24 is forced to reorient during this run so that it can be reoriented. At this point, the blade cartridge 22c is optionally rotated within the blade cartridge support member 24 from the face side to the body side.

[00409] An optional feature extends the blade cartridge support member 24 through its range of motion within the collar for the purpose of facilitating holding the blade cartridge support member 24 in a selected position during the shaving stroke. A plurality of detents spaced across may be included. As shown in FIGS. 142, 143, two detents 14410a, 14410b are included, one at each respective extreme of motion (eg, corresponding to body and face modes, respectively). These detents 14410a, 14410b may be accomplished using one of several possible methods including a spring-loaded plunger (shown) 14420 or a mating magnet. An additional optional feature is a customizable removable/replaceable dress that may be present on the blade cartridge support member 24 in the area spanned by the compound curvilinear feature 14402 including the spiral tracks 14404, 14406. It can contain a plate. This dress plate may be used for branding and/or printed instructions or graphics intended to assist the user in selecting the proper yoke position.

[00410] A design consideration is the angle formed between the razor handle 60 and the blade cartridge 22 in side view when the blade cartridge 22 is in body mode (see, eg, FIG. 143). This angle is determined by the degree of twist in the spiral track 14402 as it traverses the circumference of the blade cartridge support member 24 (zero twist means that the blade cartridge 22 and handle 60 are fully aligned in side view). parallel to ). The designer/user can select this angle to maximize the number of possible ways to hold the razor 10, especially when shaving hard-to-reach areas. Optionally, there may be tracks 14402 on both sides of the blade cartridge support member 24 rather than just one. In such a case, the blade cartridge support member 24 has twice the range of motion within the collar, the center position may represent face mode, and two body positions, one at each end of the track 14402. There may be mode positions. Since the tracks 14402 on the two sides are independent of each other, the two body mode positions can be mirror images of each other (i.e., differ only in the side of the handle 60 to which the blade cartridge support member 24 has been moved); Or they may have different degrees of twist. In such a case, the user selects which side to slide the blade cartridge support member 24 to, in side view, between the handle 60 and the blade cartridge 22 as a result of the user's choice of two. can have an angle of

[00411] Additionally, the razor 10 can be operated in a facial mode depending on which mode is selected by the user via the positioning of the user's blade cartridge support member 24 (facial mode or body mode, respectively). The blade cartridge 22 may be automatically moved to present the side or body side to the skin surface. This can be accomplished in a cam or gear system or through some other arrangement. Such design considerations are whether the blade cartridge 22 is constrained by a mechanical system to orient itself relative to the blade cartridge support member 24 position, or whether the user overrides the system and removes the blade cartridge 22 in any way. Whether you still have the option to put it in that orientation.

[00412] Additional optional features are shown in FIG. In this configuration, the handle 60 or collar end is adapted to include features that appear to blend into the curve of the blade cartridge support member 24 . In either configuration with or without this feature, the durable/disposable interface is between the blade cartridge support member 24 and the collar, between the collar and the handle, or between the blade cartridge 22 and the blade cartridge support member. 24. Attachment and release of the disposable portion from the handle to the yoke/cartridge head may be accomplished using any of the configurations described herein.

[00413] Referring now to Figures 145-147, one embodiment of a magnetic biasing system 14702 for biasing the blade cartridge to the initial starting position (ISP) is schematically illustrated. The magnetic biasing system 14702 comprises one or more blade cartridge support member magnets 11412 (only one is shown for clarity) and one or more blade cartridge magnets 11410, each having their poles configured to create a repulsive magnetic force that urges the blade cartridge 22 away from the blade cartridge support member 24 about the pivot axis PA and one or more magnets 11412 and of blade cartridge magnets 11410. In the illustrated embodiment, magnetic biasing system 14702 is configured to bias blade cartridge 22 in the direction indicated schematically by arrow 14704, although it should be appreciated that blade cartridge 22 is limited to Although not intended, it may be rotated in any direction, including generally opposite direction of arrow 14704 .

[00414] According to one embodiment, the blade cartridge magnet 11410 may be located on the back side 11409 of the single-sided blade cartridge 22 (eg, on the side of the blade cartridge 22 generally opposite the razor blade located on the front side 14712). . For example, blade cartridge magnet 11410 may be located at and/or above pivot axis PA (eg, closer to top edge 14714 of blade cartridge 22 furthest from handle 60). The repelling magnetic forces generated by the repelling magnets 11410, 11412, in addition to the blade cartridge magnets 11410 located above the pivot axis PA, urge the blade cartridge 22 toward the initial starting position about the pivot axis PA ( ISP) Rotate in the direction of arrow 14704 .

[00415] The blade cartridge support member 24 and/or the blade cartridge 22 may include one or more ISP projections, shoulders, which establish an initial starting position (ISP) of the blade cartridge 22 with respect to the blade cartridge support member 24 and the handle 60. , ridges, and/or extensions 9328 may optionally be included. As can be appreciated, ISP is the position of the blade cartridge 22 relative to the blade cartridge support member 24 and handle 60 when no force is applied, and is the position to which the blade cartridge 22 will return after the external force is removed. . In other words, when an external force is applied to blade cartridge 22 during shaving, the external force acts between blade cartridge support member magnets 11412 and blade cartridge magnets 11410 such that blade cartridge 22 moves in a generally opposite direction of arrow 14704. can overcome the repulsive magnetic force of When the external force is removed and/or reduced, the repulsive magnetic force between magnets 11410, 11412 urges blade cartridge 22 back toward the ISP. In this way, the ISP protrusion 9328 sets an initial starting position of the blade cartridge 22 relative to the blade cartridge support member 24, limits rotation of the blade cartridge 22 in the direction of arrow 14704, and also limits rotation of the blade cartridge 22 during the shaving stroke. limit/prevent over-rotation of the cartridge.

[00416] In the illustrated embodiment, the ISP protrusions 9328 are located within one or more of the yoke arms 30 below the pivot axis PA (e.g., proximate the yoke 47), but as noted: This is not a limitation of the disclosure unless specifically claimed as such. In this manner, the ISP protrusion 9328 sets or defines the zero position of the blade cartridge 22 . The blade cartridge 22 can rotate about the pivot axis PA within a predetermined rotation range. For example, the predetermined range of rotation may be up to 110 degrees, such as less than 90 degrees or less than 45 degrees. Rotation of blade cartridge 22 in a direction generally opposite arrow 14704 may also be limited by ISP protrusion 9328 and/or another protrusion, shoulder, ridge, and/or extension. This embodiment offers the advantage of producing a restoring force over a larger range of angular displacements for the spring--greater than 90 degrees--subject to proper adjustment to the surrounding geometric constraints.

[00417] Although the repelling magnets 11410, 11412 are illustrated as being centrally located on the blade cartridge support member 24 and the blade cartridge 22, the repelling magnets 11410, 11412 may be located on the blade cartridge support member 24 and/or the blade cartridge 22. can be located anywhere along the Additionally, although the repelling magnets 11410, 11412 are shown as visible, this is for illustrative purposes only, and one or more of the repelling magnets 11410, 11412 may be used to repel the blade cartridge support member 24 and/or the blade. It may be embedded in the cartridge 22 . Optionally, the blade cartridge support member magnets 11412 have one or more protrusions (eg, “turrets”) that may extend outwardly from a portion of the blade cartridge support member 24 generally toward the blade cartridge 22. 11416. The turret 11416 may allow the blade cartridge support member magnets 11412 to be positioned closer to the blade cartridge magnets 11410, thereby increasing the repulsive magnetic force that urges the blade cartridge 22 toward the ISP. Additionally, the turret 11416 allows only a portion of the blade cartridge support member 24, including the blade cartridge support member magnets 11412, to access the blade cartridge 22, while other portions of the blade cartridge support member 24 are accessible. may be increased further away from the blade cartridge 22, thereby increasing the overall clearance between the blade cartridge 22 and the blade cartridge support member 24, thereby allowing the blade cartridge 22 to pivot about pivot axis PA (e.g., to provide space for shaving cream, debris/hair, etc.).

[00418] The blade cartridge support member magnet 11412 need not necessarily be a separate magnet in the assembly, but rather one or more of the magnets described herein for coupling the blade cartridge support member 24 to the handle 60. Note that multiple can be used to create a repelling magnetic force with magnets 11410 in blade cartridge 22 . Additionally, it is possible that one or more of the razor blades of blade cartridge 22 can be magnetized to form blade cartridge magnets 11410 .

[00419] Although the magnetic biasing system 14702 is illustrated in combination with a single-sided blade cartridge 22, it should be understood that this is not a limitation of the disclosure unless specifically claimed as such, and that the magnetic biasing system 14702 is not a limitation of the disclosure. The 14702 may be used with multi-sided blade cartridges 22 (eg, double-sided blade cartridges 22). For example, the blade cartridge 22 is a plurality of blade cartridge magnets 11410 internally disposed on opposite sides of the multi-sided blade cartridge 22 such that their poles are selected when the blade cartridge 22 is rotated to the selected plane. so that the blade cartridge magnet 11410 associated with the flattened surface (e.g., the blade cartridge magnet 11410 closest to the blade cartridge support member magnet 11412) has its poles aligned with the blade cartridge support member magnet 11412 to create a repulsive magnetic force. may include a plurality of blade cartridge magnets 11410 aligned in opposite directions.

[00420] The magnetic biasing system 14702 may be applied to the disposable head assembly 20, including, but not limited to, embodiments in which both the blade cartridge support member 24 and the blade cartridge 22 are removably coupled to the handle 60, and and/or the head assembly being an integral or single component of the handle 60 (including embodiments in which only the blade cartridge 22 remains part (an integral or single component) of the handle 60) (e.g., It may be used with any handle 60 or head assembly 20 described herein, including disposable razors where the blade cartridge cannot be removed from the handle 60). Additionally, although the magnetic biasing system 14702 is illustrated in combination with a single-sided blade cartridge 22, it should be understood that this is not a limitation of the present disclosure unless specifically claimed as such, and that magnetic biasing system 14702 is not a limitation of the present disclosure. The system 14702 may be used with multi-sided blade cartridges 22 (eg, double-sided blade cartridges 22).

[00421] In the illustrated embodiment, the blade cartridge support member 24 is connected to the handle 60 by any mechanical connection and/or closure described herein and/or known to those skilled in the art (e.g., limited not, but may be coupled using a removable closure/clip 14902) as shown schematically in FIG. Alternatively (or in addition), any of the magnetic connections described herein may be used to couple blade cartridge support member 24 to handle 60 .

[00422] Referring to FIG. 148, a razor 10 having one or more magnets 15002, 15004 disposed on the blade cartridge support member 24 and blade cartridge 22, respectively, and having their poles aligned to provide an attractive magnetic force. shown schematically. In particular, the blade cartridge magnet 15004 may be located on the back side 11409 of the blade cartridge 22, below the pivot axis PA (eg, closer to the blade cartridge support member 24 and generally opposite the top edge 14714). The blade cartridge support member magnets 15002 may be placed anywhere on the blade cartridge support member 24 as long as an attractive magnet is created. The attractive magnetic force may urge the blade cartridge 22 toward the ISP in a direction substantially opposite of arrow 14704, as shown in FIG. When a user applies force to the blade cartridge 22 while shaving, external forces can overcome the attractive magnetic force and the blade cartridge 22 can move generally in the direction of arrow 14704 . When the external force is removed and/or reduced, the attractive magnetic force can urge the blade cartridge 22 back toward the ISP in a direction substantially opposite arrow 14704 . The one or more ISP protrusions 9328 position the blade cartridge support member 24 above and above the pivot axis PA to restrict movement of the blade cartridge 22 in either direction and/or to set/establish the ISP. / or can be positioned below. It will be appreciated that the attractive magnetic forces produced by magnets 15002, 15004 are optionally combined with one or more of magnets 11410, 11412 to produce both attractive and repulsive magnetic forces (in the same and/or opposite directions). can be effectively combined.

[00423] It should also be appreciated that any one or more of magnets 11410, 11412 and/or 15002, 15004 may be replaced with nanoparticle magnets as described herein. The nanoparticle magnets may be embedded (eg, molded into) a portion of one or more of the blade cartridge support members 24 and/or the blade cartridge 22 to urge the blade cartridge 22 toward the ISP. It can be programmed to have the desired poles to provide repulsive and/or attractive magnetic forces. Alternatively or additionally, either the blade cartridge support member 24 and/or the blade cartridge 22 may be infused with a nanoparticulate material during the manufacturing process, which then forces the blade cartridge 22 into IPS. can be programmed to have the desired poles to provide repulsive and/or attractive magnetic forces for the purpose.

[00424] While various embodiments are illustrated herein with a magnetic biasing system 14702 generally consistent with FIGS. Yes, and other biasing systems described herein may be used.

[00425] It will be appreciated that any one or any combination of the resistive swivel mechanisms described herein (eg, without limitation, magnetoresistive swivel mechanisms) may be used with any head assembly. may be used, and thus is not limited to multi-sided head assemblies. For example, the resistive pivot mechanism described herein may be used with a head assembly that has a razor blade on only one side and pivots about only one side. The resistive pivot mechanism described herein can have a razor blade located on only one side of a single-sided cartridge head assembly that only pivots about one side containing the razor blade. shaving device head assembly. Further, it should be appreciated that any of the resistive swivel mechanisms described herein (e.g., without limitation, magneto-resistive swivel mechanisms) can significantly reduce a given degree of rotation, particularly as compared to conventional single-sided razors. may provide the additional benefit of providing the user with a more contoured shave.

[00426] Any one of the embodiments described herein may include the head assembly 20 rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the handle 60. As shown in FIG. For example, the user can select a new plane by simply rotating the head assembly 20 in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the handle 60 .

[00427] A razor consistent with one or more of the embodiments described herein may feature a number of benefits and/or advantages. For example, a razor consistent with at least one embodiment can feature a more environmentally friendly design, because certain components of the double-sided and three-sided cartridge system can be any two or three standard single-sided This is because less material may be used during manufacture than the cartridges and their individually assembled packaging, such as, but not limited to, the connection hub, support arms and cartridge housing and packaging.

[00428] Additionally or alternatively, a package holding four or five standard single-sided cartridges herein can accommodate an equal number of razors consistent with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. so only minor modifications are required. A slightly modified container in which the manufacturer previously held only 4 or 5 standard single cartridges equivalent to 8-10 standard single cartridges. essentially allowing it to be transported in Consistent with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, this may facilitate a more environmentally friendly design as the amount of container required to transport the cartridge is significantly reduced, roughly halved.

[00429] According to another embodiment, a blade cartridge having a pivot point located at or about the center of the cartridge head assembly is advantageous to users. For example, this design allows and maximizes the amount of "blade contact surface area" with the skin. In particular, over body anatomy in contoured areas with difficult contours, such as the head, neck, chin, torso region (including genitals), and legs. Having a pivot point located at the bottom of the cartridge, as opposed to the pivot point described herein, may be less advantageous because the razor will be biased as it is pulled over the area being shaved. This is because when the rod is 'lowest', the bottom of the cartridge naturally lifts off the surface of the skin. This leads to missing hairs and forces the user to make additional shaving strokes, which is a major factor in the common condition known to consumers as "razor burn". The reason this happens is that after the biasing rod is in its lowest position, the user continues to apply rotation to the cartridge by raising the handle upward while making a downward shaving stroke, and vice versa. . This in turn continues to rotate the cartridge, lifting it away from the skin which, as previously mentioned, causes missed hairs and forces the user to perform additional shaving strokes. Having a pivot point centrally located in the cartridge head assembly and coupled with a resistive pivot mechanism allows the razor cartridge to follow the precise contours of the skin, thus allowing the blade cartridges described herein to be more flexible. At least one embodiment addresses this issue. This increases the surface area that the blade contacts with the area being shaved, resulting in less hair miss.

[00430] According to yet another embodiment, a razor with a two-sided or three-sided rotating cartridge as described herein has considerable advantages for both consumers and manufacturers. For the environmentally conscious and cost conscious consumer and manufacturer, this design addresses both of these important concerns. A recently released consumer report from the EPA states that over 2 billion disposable razor cartridges are discarded annually in the United States alone. As described herein, one or more embodiments of the present disclosure address both the economic benefits to manufacturers and the important environmental issues mentioned above, because , during the manufacturing process, certain components of the double-sided cartridge system can use less material than two standard single cartridges assembled separately. For example, the arm, connecting hub, and cartridge head assembly may all use less material during manufacture than a standard, separately assembled, single cartridge. Therefore, a dual or triple razor cartridge system using the specific embodiments described herein (including the container in which the cartridge is packaged and shipped) is manufactured in less than two standard single cartridges. It is reasonable to assume that less material can be used and that their respective containers can be more economical to manufacture and subsequently much more environmentally friendly. One important reason for this is that the reduction in manufacturing and packaging materials reduces the amount of cartridge containers required for shipping. This reduces the frequency of need for transportation for delivery purposes, reduces the amount of fuel that is combusted and released into the atmosphere, and generally reduces bulk gas emissions and unnecessary environmental waste.

[00431] As can be appreciated, shaving various portions of the anatomy has become increasingly popular, and there are many shaving devices to facilitate this. As can be appreciated, many shaving devices are expensive and cumbersome. At least one embodiment of the present disclosure features blade cartridges having different blade configurations depending on which cartridge the user selects, thereby performing multiple shaving tasks (multiple devices It provides the user with the notable advantage of requiring only one device (if previously required).

[00432] For example, a "standard" double-sided cartridge configuration refers to each cartridge side having a "3 & 3" blade arrangement with all six blades facing the same cutting direction and separated in the center by lubricating strips. can be characterized. This configuration is particularly useful for conventional shaving purposes.

[00433] The "body" blade double-sided cartridge configuration is characterized by each side of the cartridge having a "3 & 3" blade arrangement with six blades separated in the center by a lubricating strip, but each side configured differently. can be On one side of the cartridge, two sets of three blades may be separated in the center by a lubricating strip, arranged in opposite cutting directions. This allows the consumer to use a "back-and-forth" shaving stroke motion without having to lift the razor from the area being shaved to begin a new stroke. It is a particularly useful blade arrangement for consumers shaving sensitive areas of the body. Alternatively, on the second side of the cartridge, all of the blades may be in the same cutting direction for conventional shaving. This cartridge configuration gives the user great flexibility when only one device is required to shave any part of the user's anatomy.

[00434] Lubrication is an essential element in the never-ending quest towards giving users a smoother, faster, more efficient and non-marring shaving experience. Accordingly, at least one embodiment consistent with the present disclosure may feature a lubricating strip that is placed before the blade contacts the skin and after the shaving stroke is completed. In contrast, while placing a lubricating strip on the top edge of the cartridge may be sufficient to lubricate the skin at the end of the shaving stroke, this arrangement does not provide lubrication during the motion of the shaving stroke. At least one embodiment consistent with the present disclosure addresses this important problem by placing a lubricating strip in the center of the cartridge, thereby dividing the blade configuration and further lubricating the skin during the shaving stroke. deal with. As a result, a smoother, faster, and more efficient shaving stroke can be provided, resulting in an overall better shaving experience for the user.

[00435] Additionally, at least one embodiment consistent with the present disclosure may feature a cushioning mechanism. Having damping mechanisms located within the arms (optionally, again, at the end of each arm where it is attached to the connecting hub assembly) adds to this design the It provides the considerable advantage of discrete cushioning, thereby giving the blade cartridge a greater range of motion and promoting a closer, more contoured shaving experience.

[00436] At least one embodiment of the present disclosure may feature an expandable/telescopic handle with a hinged neck and a removable head assembly. This arrangement may allow the user to position the cartridge perpendicular to the handle and allow the user to rotate the position of the cartridge head so that it is aligned substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the handle. can be This cartridge position is particularly useful when shaving hard-to-reach or hard-to-reach areas of the user's body, such as the head and legs.

[00437] According to one aspect, the disclosure may feature a shaving device that includes a head assembly. The head assembly may include a support member configured to be removably coupled to the handle and a blade cartridge having first and second faces, wherein at least one of the first or second faces includes at least one razor blade. The blade cartridge is configured to be rotatably coupled to the support member about a pivot axis PA such that the blade cartridge is pivotable by a user to select one of the first or second faces. can be

[00438] According to another aspect, the present disclosure can feature a shaving device that includes a handle and a head assembly. A head assembly may include a support member and a blade cartridge. The support member may be removably coupled to the handle and may be configured to include first and second support arms including first and second pivot receptacles. The blade cartridge may include first and second faces, at least one of the first or second faces including at least one razor blade extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the blade cartridge. The blade cartridge may further include first and second pivot pins extending outwardly along the blade cartridge pivot axis PA from opposite sides of the blade cartridge. The pivot axis PA may extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the blade cartridge, and the first and second pivot pins are arranged in first or second initial firing positions corresponding to the first or second faces, respectively. It may be configured to be rotatably coupled to the first and second pivot receptacles, respectively, such that the blade cartridge may be pivoted about pivot axis PA to select a position.

[00439] The shaving device is a resistive pivot mechanism for selecting one of the first or second surface positions corresponding to the first and second surfaces of the blade cartridge, respectively, wherein the user presses the blade cartridge. , may optionally include a resistive pivot mechanism configured to allow rotation about pivot axis PA. The resistive pivot mechanism can be configured to allow the blade cartridge to rotate within a predetermined range of rotation while in the selected planar position. The number of degrees the blade cartridge can rotate about the pivot axis PA relative to the initial starting position can depend on the intended application. For example, the blade cartridge may rotate about the pivot axis PA from about 5 degrees to about 90 degrees and any range therein relative to the initial starting position. According to another embodiment, the blade cartridge may rotate about the pivot axis PA from an initial starting position within a range of approximately 5 degrees to 60 degrees and any range therein. For example, the blade cartridge may rotate within a range of approximately 5 degrees to 45 degrees about the pivot axis PA relative to the initial starting position. According to yet another embodiment, the blade cartridge may rotate about the pivot axis PA from about 5 degrees to about 25 degrees and any range therein relative to the initial starting position. According to still further embodiments, the blade cartridge may rotate about the pivot axis PA from about 5 degrees to about 15 degrees and any range therein relative to the initial starting position.

[00440] According to another aspect, the present disclosure provides for rotating a blade cartridge coupled to a support member about a pivot axis PA to select one of a plurality of faces of the blade cartridge, comprising: A method may be characterized in that at least one of the plurality of faces includes at least one razor blade.

[00441] Having described preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, it is understood that various variations, adaptations, and modifications may be made therein without departing from the spirit of the invention and the scope of the appended claims. It should be. The scope of the disclosure should, therefore, be determined not with reference to the above description, but instead should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with all equivalents thereto. Moreover, the appended claims do not necessarily include the broadest scope of the invention that applicant is entitled to claim, or the only way in which the invention can be claimed, or that all recited It should be understood that additional features are required.

Claims (19)

comprising a blade cartridge support member and a blade cartridge;
The blade cartridge support member is
first and second arms extending from the yoke;
a first blade cartridge support member magnet coupled to the first arm;
The blade cartridge is
said first surface and said second surface, at least one of said first surface or said second surface comprising at least one razor blade;
first and second lateral ends facing each other;
with one or more pivot pins extending from the first and second lateral ends and configured to be rotatably coupled to the first and second arms of the blade cartridge support member; a pivot pin configured to rotate the blade cartridge about a pivot axis extending through the one or more pivot pins;
a first blade cartridge magnet coupled to the first lateral end for generating a magnetic force with the first blade cartridge support member magnet to urge the blade cartridge toward an initial starting position; a first blade cartridge magnet configured to bias;
shaving device. wherein said first blade cartridge support member magnet is positioned proximate a distal end of said first arm;
A shaving device according to claim 1. further comprising a second blade cartridge magnet coupled to said first lateral end;
A shaving device according to claim 1. said first and said second blade cartridge magnets are positioned on opposite sides of said pivot axis;
A shaving device according to claim 3. the first blade cartridge magnet is configured to be substantially aligned with the first blade cartridge support member magnet when the first side of the blade cartridge is aligned in the first shaving position; The second blade cartridge magnet is configured to be substantially aligned with the first blade cartridge support member magnet when the second side of the blade cartridge is aligned in the second shaving position. characterized by having
A shaving device according to claim 4. further comprising a second blade cartridge support magnet coupled to the first arm;
A shaving device according to claim 1. a second blade cartridge magnet coupled to the first lateral end;
a second blade cartridge support member magnet coupled to the first arm;
A shaving device according to claim 1. said first and said second blade cartridge magnets are positioned on opposite sides of said pivot axis;
A shaving device according to claim 7. the first blade cartridge magnet is configured to be substantially aligned with the first blade cartridge support member magnet when the first side of the blade cartridge is aligned in the first shaving position; The second blade cartridge magnet is configured to be substantially aligned with the first blade cartridge support member magnet when the second side of the blade cartridge is aligned in the second shaving position. characterized by having
A shaving device according to claim 8. a second blade cartridge support member magnet coupled to the second arm;
a second blade cartridge magnet coupled to said second lateral end for generating a magnetic force with said second blade cartridge support member magnet to urge said blade cartridge to an initial starting position; and the second blade cartridge magnet configured to bias the
A shaving device according to claim 1. The first blade cartridge magnet is spaced from the pivot axis such that the first blade cartridge magnet and the first blade cartridge support member magnet are positioned substantially the same distance from the pivot axis. placed,
A shaving device according to claim 1. said first blade cartridge magnet having a substantially arcuate shape with a radius substantially corresponding to the distance of said first blade cartridge support member magnet from said pivot axis;
A shaving device according to claim 1. further comprising at least one blade cartridge rotation limiter configured to substantially limit rotation of the blade cartridge within a predetermined rotational range relative to the initial starting position;
A shaving device according to claim 1. at least one blade configured to provide a user with indicia that allow one of the first and second surfaces of the blade cartridge to be distinguished from the other; further comprising a cartridge rotation limiter,
A shaving device according to claim 1. the at least one blade cartridge rotation limiter is configured to deform when rotating the blade cartridge about the pivot axis to select the other face;
15. A shaving device according to claim 14. said at least one blade cartridge rotation limiter comprising a detent;
14. A shaving device according to claim 13. a handle;
a support frame including first and second arms;
A blade cartridge comprising first and second faces, wherein at least one of the first face or the second face comprises at least one razor blade, fixed to said support frame and pivoting about a pivot axis. a blade cartridge configured to
first and second arm magnets respectively fixed to the first and second arms;
first and second blade cartridge magnet pairs including first and second blade cartridge magnets, respectively, disposed on opposite sides of said pivot axis.
The first and second blade cartridge magnet pairs pivot with the blade cartridge about the pivot axis to provide magnetic forces biasing the blade cartridge toward the initial start position relative to the handle. configured to occur with the second arm magnet ;
shaving device. both the first side and the second side of the blade cartridge include the at least one razor blade;
18. A shaving device according to claim 17 . further comprising a blade cartridge support member;
18. A shaving device according to claim 17.

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