MX2011007215A

MX2011007215A - Docking mechanisms for shaving razors and cartridges.

Info

Publication number: MX2011007215A
Application number: MX2011007215A
Authority: MX
Inventors: Matthew Corey Cataudella; Alejandro Carlos Lee; Vincent Paul Walker
Original assignee: Gillette Co
Priority date: 2009-01-05
Filing date: 2010-01-05
Publication date: 2011-11-29
Also published as: RU2479418C2; SG172834A1; WO2010078564A3; WO2010078564A2; CN102271876A; KR20110099123A; CA2748910A1; BRPI1007224A2; EP2387489A2; RU2011121648A; JP2012514496A; EP2387489B1; AU2010203231A1

Abstract

A wet shaving razor (10) is provided having a handle (12), an interconnect member (16) and a cartridge (14) having at least one blade (11) for shaving. The handle has a distal gripping portion (24) and a proximal end portion (26) defining an open area there through. The proximal end portion of the handle has an undercut section (34). The interconnect member is mounted to the cartridge and includes a latch (22) with a free end (42) that is releasably engaged to the undercut section of the handle. The button has a distal end portion supported by the proximal end portion of the handle and a proximal end portion supported by the free end of the latch such that actuating the button deflects the free end of the latch and disengages the free end from the undercut section of the handle.

Description

COUPLING MECHANISMS FOR SHAVING MACHINES AND CARTRIDGES FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to shaving machines and, more particularly, to razor cartridges having coupling mechanisms that removably and / or pivotally engage a razor handle to a shaving cartridge.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION In recent years, razors have been proposed in the literature and commercialized with numerous sheets, p. e.g., in U.S. Patent Publication. no. 2005/0039337 A1 published on February 24, 2005, which generally describes a type of design that has been marketed worldwide as the Fusion ™ five-blade razor from The Gillette Company.

In emerging markets, such as China and India, the preferred shaver is a standard double-edged shaver, for example, the US patent. UU no. 3,274,683 granted on September 27, 1966, which generally describes a typical design used in emerging markets. Consumers in these markets do not have, Typically, the means to acquire the shavers that are so popular in the United States. The standard double-edge style shaver designs can be economical, but do not offer the benefits of the designs used, typically, in the most industrialized countries.

Consumers who shave in emerging markets shave, typically, infrequently, sometimes only once or twice a week. In addition, there is little or no availability of running water to rinse or clean a shaver, and the availability of skin cleansers and auxiliaries before and after shaving is limited. Pre-shaving aids may include oils, gels and shaving lotions, and after-shave aids may include after-shave gels, lotions and moisturizers. Typically, a cup or container is filled with water and used to rinse the shaver. The shavers described in the aforementioned patent application are quite sophisticated in that they have been designed according to Western shaving customs, practices and means and, therefore, do not provide an ideal shaving experience for consumers in emerging markets. The shaving consumer in emerging countries has a very different shaving environment, as well as shaving habits and practices different from those of the typical shave consumer in more developed countries, such as the United States. Even if a less sophisticated version of the popular five-knife Fusion ™ razor was available to these consumers, this would still not provide the optimal shaving experience due to its exceptional shaving habits and practices, and shaving environment.

The interconnection or elimination mechanisms tend to have several moving components that are prone to fail after many cycles of use. In addition, if the user drops the razor, these mechanisms are the most prone to breakage. Thus, frequently, the user must purchase a replacement handle before the blade of the razor becomes blunt.

Therefore, it is convenient to provide a razor cartridge having a coupling mechanism with a minimum amount of components that removably and / or pivotally engage a razor handle to a razor cartridge.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In one aspect the invention generally discloses a shaver for wet shaving including a handle, a cartridge and an interconnection member. The handle includes a distal grasping portion and a unitary proximal end portion. The cartridge has at least one blade for shaving and is pivotably connected to the interconnecting member. The interconnection member is removably mounted to the unitary proximal end portion of the handle.

In another aspect the invention generally discloses a shaver for wet shaving including a cartridge having at least one blade for shaving, a handle and an interconnecting member. The handle includes a distal grasping portion and a unitary proximal end portion having a pair of opposing arms, each of which has a hook member extending at an acute angle. The interconnect member is pivotally attached to the cartridge and removably mounted to the proximal end portion of the unitary handle. The interconnection member has a housing defining a gradually decreasing opening dimensioned to receive the pair of latching members so that the insertion of the pair of latching members into the housing causes the latching members to deviate and engage the latching members. a biased section of the housing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Figure 1 is a top plan view of a wet razor.

Figure 2 is a diagrammatic perspective view of the wet razor illustrating a cartridge and handle that can be incorporated in the wet razor shown in Figure 1.

Figure 3 is an enlarged diagrammatic perspective view of the cartridge and a proximal end portion of the handle shown in Figure 2.

Figure 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the wet razor of Fig. 1, taken, generally, on line IV-IV of Fig. 1.

Figure 5 is a top plan view of another embodiment of a wet razor.

Figure 6 is an enlarged diagrammatic perspective view of the wet razor illustrating a cartridge and handle that can be incorporated in the wet razor shown in Figure 5.

Figure 7A is a side view of a portion of the wet razor of Fig. 5.

Figure 7B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the wet razor, generally taken on line VII-VII, Fig. 7A.

Figure 8 is a top plan view of another embodiment of a wet razor.

Figure 9 is an enlarged diagrammatic perspective view of the wet razor illustrating a cartridge and handle that can be incorporated in the wet razor shown in Figure 9.

Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the razor of Fig. 8, taken, generally, on line X-X of Fig. 8.

Figure 1 1 is a cross-sectional view of the razor of Fig. 8, taken, generally, on line XI-XI of Fig. 8.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION With reference to Fig. 1, a possible embodiment of the present disclosure is shown illustrating a razor 10 having a handle 12 and a cartridge 14, having at least one blade 11 for shaving. The handle 12 may have a distal grip portion 24 and a proximal end portion 26. In certain embodiments the cartridge 14 may be removably and pivotably mounted to the handle 12. In other embodiments the cartridge 14 may be removably mounted and fixedly to the handle 12. The cartridge 14 can be removed from the handle 12 and replaced with a new cartridge 14 as the user needs it. An interconnecting member 16 can removably attach the cartridge 14 to the proximal end portion 26 of the handle 12. The proximal end portion 26 which is mounted to the interconnect member 16 can be of unitary construction, in one piece, which can molded and / or welded by ultrasound to form a single component. The proximal end portion 26 that is functionally connected to the interconnection member 16 may have no moving part. The term "unitary", unless otherwise specified, is defined as lacking or lacking any mobile component. The moving components are more prone to failure or breakage and can interfere with the proper functioning of the handle 12 and the interconnection member 16. The cost is also a significant factor in the purchase decision of consumers in emerging markets. Many shavers offer cartridges Removable pivoting, however, these designs often require various components that increase the complexity and cost of the razor. Disposal mechanisms with numerous moving parts can also trap water, shaving aids and debris, which can interfere with, or corrode, various components of the removal mechanism, such as springs. The disposal mechanism can also be difficult to clean and rinse, which can lead to the growth of microorganisms.

The interconnection member 16 may be permanently and pivotally attached to the cartridge 14, which may provide several advantages. The interconnection member 16, instead of the handle 12, can have moving components that can be fatigued or fail with prolonged use, which is the case with all shaving machines with fixation mechanisms. Since the cartridge 14 is replaced when the blade 1 1 becomes blunt, the cartridge 14 and, therefore, the interconnecting member 16, are replaced before the interconnect member 16 is exposed to a series of fatigue cycles. which can result in the collapse of the connection between the cartridge 14 and the handle 12. By having the movable components that are susceptible to wear or tear located in the cartridge 14 (e.g., the interconnecting member 16), it is possible that the user never has to purchase a replacement handle 12. Another possible advantage of having a 12 unit handle with components that do not move is that the manufacturers of replacement handles are more likely to manufacture custom-made replacement handles, since the complexity of the mango is significantly reduced and Needs little or no additional assembly work. A custom handle can be molded, machined or cast by using high quality materials, such as chrome and various precious metals or plating, for a fraction of the cost of a custom handle that requires various connection mechanisms with mobile and / or fragile components.

The interconnection member 16 can provide a one-point coupling of the handle 12 to the cartridge 14. The single-point coupling only requires a connection area, for example, an area or component in the handle 12 and a component or area in the interconnection member 16. The single-point coupling simplifies the attachment and removal of the handle 12 of the cartridge 14, because it is not necessary for the multiple areas or components of the handle 12 and the multiple areas or components of the cartridge 14 to be aligned and engaged. with precision for the proper fixation and removal. As will be described in more detail below, the interconnect member 16 may be provided with a release tab 22 to facilitate uncoupling of the cartridge 14 from the handle 12. The release tab 22 may allow the user to disassemble the cartridge 14 from the handle 12 with a single finger and / or a single action, without the complexity or additional components, such as an ejector or detach button, which typically require a spring plus additional components. In certain embodiments the detachment tab 22 can eject or project the interconnect member 16 and the cartridge 14 of the handle 12. The ability of the tongue Detachment 22 of ejecting or projecting the handle cartridge allows the user to disassemble and dispose of the cartridge 14 with one hand.

In certain embodiments the interconnecting member 16 may have a pair of arms 18 and 20 that securely and pivotally connect to the cartridge 14. The opposing arms 18 and 20 may be relatively long and have a smaller wall thickness and, for therefore, they may be more prone to fatigue or failure. By placing the arms 18 and 20 in the cartridge 14 (which is discarded after a limited number of uses) it is possible that the handle 12 never has to be replaced because of the failure of the components. The opposing arms 18 and 20 can result in an open space or window below the cartridge 14, which can improve the ability of the water to rinse the cartridge 14 after shaving. The interconnecting member 16 may be a single unitary component that is capable of removably and pivotally coupling the cartridge 14 to the handle 12, without the need for separate components assembled to the handle 12 or the cartridge 14. The handle 12, the cartridge 14 and the interconnect member 16 can be molded from polymers such as high impact polystyrene (HIPS), but other semi-rigid polymers, such as polypropylene (PP) and acrylonitrile, can also be used. Butadiene Styrene (ABS). Alternatively, the handle 12 may be composed of more durable materials, such as metals, composites, stiffer plastics, or any combination thereof.

Now referring to Fig. 2, there is shown a diagrammatic perspective view of the razor 10 illustrating the cartridge 14 and the handle 12. The handle 12 may include a distal grasping portion 24 and a proximal end portion 26 The proximal end portion 26 of the handle 12 can be of generally solid construction. A solid proximal end portion 26 may have, generally, non-moving components or features such as openings or recesses, which can trap shaving aids or debris. Shaving aids or debris can adversely affect the proper functioning of a release mechanism, which makes it difficult to eject a razor cartridge from a handle. The proximal end portion 26 may include a projection 28 with an enlarged latch member 30 having a gradually decreasing front end portion 32 and a gradually decreasing rear end portion 34. The gradually decreasing rear end portion 34 of the enlarged latch member 30 may be spaced apart from a front wall 36 of proximal end portion 26 of handle 12. Interconnecting member 16 may include a housing 38 having a latch 40 with a free end 42 engaging protrusion 28. A tongue member 22 having a first position and a second position may extend from the free end 42. Although a tongue member 22 is shown, other release mechanisms may be used, such as buttons, protuberances, pins, levelers or dials. The housing 38 can define an aperture 45 dimensioned to receive the projection 28 of the handle 12. As will be described in more detail below, the gradually decreasing front end portion 32 can help guide and insert the projection 28 into the housing 38.

With reference to FIG. 3, an enlarged perspective view of the cartridge 14 and the proximal end portion 26 of the handle 12 is illustrated. The proximal end portion 26 of the handle 12 can allow a "unique shape" with the interconnection member. 16, which prevents the cartridge 14 from being fixed incorrectly (for example, backwards). The load uniquely creates a predetermined loading configuration, thus, the user can not incorrectly fix the handle 12 to the cartridge 14. The loading of a "unique shape" of the cartridge 14 can be facilitated by the housing 38 and / or the portion of proximal end 26 of the handle 12 having an asymmetric geometry. Generally, cartridges have a tendency to uncouple from a handle if the user does not assemble them properly, which can result in damage to the user during shaving. The uniquely charged cartridge 14 is user-friendly and intuitive, especially for consumers who have never used a removable cartridge. As will be described in more detail below, charging in a unique manner can also be facilitated by features such as rails or channels. The housing 38 may include the latch 40, a first wall 44 and a pair of side walls 60 and 62 that define an opening 45. Although a latch 40 is shown with a pair of slits 41 and 43, the slits 41 and 43 are not necessary for the latch function 40. The housing 38 may include a first wall 44 having a gradually decreasing guide member 46, which can help to align and secure the handle 12 to the housing 38. The first wall 44 and the guide member 46 can define a pair of slots 48 and 50 that are sized to receive at least a portion of the projection 28 of the handle 12.

The projection 28 of the handle 12 can have a first wall 52, defining a gradually decreasing slot 54, dimensioned to receive the gradually decreasing guide member 46 of the housing 38. The gradually decreasing slot 54 and the gradually decreasing guide member 46 can facilitate "uniquely" loading of the cartridge 14 into the handle 12. The gradually tapered slot assembly 54 of the handle 12 and the gradually decreasing guide member 46 of the housing 38 can result in a gear that gradually decreases that fix the projection 28 of the handle 12 within the housing 38 of the interconnection member 16. The tapering angle of the gradually decreasing slot 54 and the gradually decreasing guide member 46 can be about 1/8 of a degree per side to approximately 10 degrees per side, or even from about 1 degree per side to approximately 5 degrees per side. The tapering angle of the gradually decreasing slot 54 and the gradually decreasing guide member 46 can further facilitate proper alignment and assembly of the handle 2 to the cartridge 4.

The projection 28 of the handle 12 can have first and second side projections 56 and 58 which couple the corresponding pair of side walls 60 and 62 of the housing 38. The first and second projections laterals 56 and 58 and the corresponding side walls 60 and 62 of the housing 38 can, moreover, gradually decrease to create a gradually decreasing gear, as described above. The first and second lateral projections 56 and 58 and the gradually decreasing slot 54 of the projection 28 can help to rigidly fix the projection 28 within the housing 38 and prevent the cartridge 14 from unintentionally uncoupling from the handle 12 during shaving.

With reference to Fig. 4, there is shown an enlarged cross-sectional view of the razor 10, taken, generally, on line IV-IV of Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 4, the The cartridge 14 is fixed to the handle 12 by the interconnection member 16. The enlarged latch member 30 may have a dimension, for example "wi", which is greater than the width of the housing 38 in a neutral position, so that when inserted the enlarged latch member 30 within the housing 38 causes the free end 42 to deviate from its original or neutral position. The free end 42 may have a flange member 64 that is displaced along the front end portion 32 of the extended latch member 30. The forward end portion 32 may act as a ramp to facilitate deflection of the free end 42 The flange member 64 can clear the front end portion 32 and the rear end portion 34 of the enlarged latch member 30 and engage the projection 28 of the handle 12. The flange member 64 can be fixedly located between the portion of end 34 of the enlarged latch member 30 and a front wall 66 of the distal end portion 26 of the handle 12. The rear end portion 34 of the enlarged latch member 30 may have a steeper or steeper decrease than the forward end portion 32 to prevent the free end 42 and the flange member 64 disengage with the projection 28. Once the flange 64 releases the trailing end 34, a sensory reaction, such as a clicking sound, may occur as the flange member 64 of the housing 38 snaps into contact with the projection 28 and return to the first position or to the original position.

The detachment tab 22 can be attached to the free end 42 of the interconnect member 16 to facilitate uncoupling of the cartridge 14 from the proximal end portion of the handle 12. The user can lift or press the release tab 22 to the second position for uncoupling the rim member 64 from the projection 28. The rim member 64 can be bent to an extended position as the rim member travels along the gradually decreasing rear portion. Once the flange member 64 releases the gradually decreasing rear portion, the free end 42 can be unfolded to its original position, thus ejecting the cartridge from the projection 30 of the handle 12. The geometry is gradually ramping or decreasing from the front end portion 32 may facilitate ejection of cartridge 14 from handle 12. Detach tab 22 may also facilitate mounting of projection 28 in housing 38 when opening (increasing width) housing to assist insertion of protrusion 28 .

Referring to Fig. 5, another possible embodiment of the present disclosure is shown illustrating a razor 100 having a handle 112 and a cartridge 114. The handle 112 may include a distal grasping portion 124 and a proximal end portion. 126. In certain embodiments the cartridge 1 4 may be removably and pivotably mounted to the proximal end portion 126 of the handle 112. In other embodiments the cartridge 114 may be removably mounted and fixed to the handle 112. The cartridge 114 may disassembled from the proximal end portion 126 of the handle 112 and replaced with a new cartridge 114 as needed by the user.

An interconnect member 116 may be provided to removably attach the cartridge 114 to the proximal end portion 126 of the handle 112. As will be described in more detail below, the proximal end portion 126 of the handle 112 may include a pair of flexible arms 102 and 104 that facilitate the coupling and uncoupling of the interconnection member 1 16 and the cartridge 1 14 of the handle 1 12. The pair of flexible arms 102 and 104 may define a groove 122 in the form, generally, of a keyhole which provides increased strength, durability and flexibility of the arms 102 and 104. The pair of arms 102 and 104 may each be provided with an enlarged finger protector 106 and 108. The enlarged finger shields 106 and 108 may have a geometry , generally, oval, with a curved or concave profile. The enlarged finger protectors 106 and 108 may allow more force to be applied to the pair of flexible arms 02 and 104, while dispersing the force applied to the user's fingers, which may result in less discomfort during the fixing and dismounting of the cartridge 114 to that of the handle 112.

In certain embodiments the interconnecting member 116 may have a pair of arms 118 and 120 that are fixedly and pivotally connected to the cartridge 114. The opposing arms 120 and 118 may result in an open space or window below the cartridge 114, which can improve the ability of the water to rinse the cartridge 114 after shaving. The interconnect member 116 may be a single unitary component that is capable of removably and pivotably coupling the cartridge 114 to the handle 112, without the need for separate components assembled to the handle 112 or the cartridge 114. The handle 112, the cartridge 114 and the interconnecting member 116 can be molded from polymers such as high impact polystyrene (HIPS), but other semi-rigid polymers can also be used, such as polypropylene (PP) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Alternatively, handle 112 may be composed of more durable materials, such as metals, composites, stiffer plastics or any combination thereof.

Now with reference to Fig. 6, there is shown a perspective view of the diagrammatic shaving machine 100, illustrating the assembly / disassembly of the cartridge 14 and the handle 112. The pair of flexible arms 102 and 104 of the portion of Proximal end 126 of handle 1 12 may each have a latching member 128 and 130 with a grasping portion 132 and 134, respectively. The coupling members 128 and 130 may not be parallel to each other and extend from the pair of flexible arms 102 and 104 at an acute angle that projects from one to the other. The flexible arms 102 and 104 may each have an internal stop surface 142 and 144, which may come into contact with each other as the flexible arms 102 and 104 are compressed together. The finger protectors 106 and 108 may allow a user to apply more force to the flexible arms 102 and 104, thus, it is possible to overcompress the flexible arms 102 and 104, either instantaneously or over many repeated uses. The flexible arms 102 and 104 can be fatigued and lose their plastic memory. If the arms 102 and 104 lose their plastic memory, they will not return to their original positions, which can result in a loose and insecure attachment of the cartridge 14 to the handle 112. The internal surfaces 142 and 144 can act as a stop to avoid the over-compression of the pair of flexible arms 102 and 104, which prevents premature failure of the arms 102 and 104. The inner surfaces 142 and 144 may come into contact with each other when the arms 102 and 104 are compressed sufficiently to allow the assembly of the handle 112 to the interconnection member 1 16.

The cartridge 114 may be pivotally connected to the interconnection member 1 6 by the pair of opposing arms 118 and 120. The pair of opposing arms 118 and 120 may extend arcuately from the cartridge 114 to a housing 138. The housing 138 it can define a gradually decreasing opening 140 which is dimensioned to receive the latching members 128 and 130 and cause them to deviate. The coupling members 128 and 130 may each have a free end that it acts as a cantilever beam to facilitate deflection of the engaging members 128 and 130 as they are inserted into the housing 138.

With reference to Figs. 7A and 7B, the razor 100 is shown with the cartridge 114 mounted to the handle 110. FIG. 7B illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the razor 100, taken, generally, in line VII- VII of Fig. 5. As shown in Fig. 7B, the hook members 128 and 130 are fully inserted into the housing 138 and the cartridge 114 is fixed to the handle 1 12. The flexible arms 102 and 104 can compress to each other, to insert the hook members 128 and 130 into the gradually decreasing opening 140 of the housing 138. To assist the compression of the flexible arms 102 and 104, the user can press the finger shields 106 and 108 as the engaging members 128 and 130 are inserted into the gradually decreasing opening 140 of the housing 138.

The gradually decreasing opening 140 of the housing 138 may have a width dimension between a pair of opposed inner walls 150 and 152, which is smaller than a width dimension between the pair of gripping portions 132 and 134, so that when inserting the gripping portions 132 and 134 within the housing 138 these (and / or the engaging members 128 and 130) are caused to deviate. The gripping portions 132 and 134 of the hook members 128 and 130 can be moved along the inner walls 150 and 152 of the housing 138 and engage one or more biased cutting sections 154 and 156 of the inner wall. 150 and 152. The engaging members 128 and 130 can be inserted into the housing 138 until the housing 138 comes in contact with a front wall 162 and 164 of the flexible arms 102 and 104 of the handle 1 2. The front walls 162 and 164 of the flexible arms 102 and 104 may act as a stop to prevent the engaging members 128 and 130 from being inserted deep into the housing 138 and coming into contact with a rear wall 160 of the housing 138. The rear wall 160 may affect or interfere with with engagement or disengagement of the latching members 128 and 130 if they are inserted deep inside the housing 138. The skewed cuts 154 and 156 may engage the respective grip portions 132 and 134 of the latching members 128 and 130 and prevent the coupling members 128 and 130 pull the housing 138.

Once the gripping portions 132 and 134 engage the biased cutting sections 154 and 156 of the housing 138, the user can peel off the finger guards 106 and 108. Once the force of the flexible arms 102 and 104 is removed, the flexible arms 102 and 104 and the engaging members 128 and 130 will attempt to return or resiliently recover to their respective original positions. However, the housing 138 may be dimensioned to prevent the latching members 128 and 30 (and thus, the flexible arms 102 and 104) from completely returning to their respective original positions, which causes the latching members 128 and 130 exert a force against the internal walls 150 and 152 of the housing. The grasping portions 132 and 134 can also exert a force against the biased sections 154 and 156 of the housing 138. The force exerted against the housing 138 can be increased by increasing the width between the hook members 128 and 130 or decreasing the width between the inner walls 150 and 152 (which can also include the sections biased cut 154 and 156). The interconnection member 1 16 can be fixed more rigidly to the handle 112 by increasing the interference between the hook members 128 and 130 and the housing 138.

The inner walls 150 and 152 and the engaging members 128 and 130 can gradually decrease, so that a gradually decreasing gear is created when they are assembled to ensure proper alignment and fixing of the housing 138 to the handle 1 12. The housing 138 it can be fixed rigidly between the grip portions 132 and 134 and the front wall 162 of the proximal end portion of the handle 112 and prevent unintentional disassembly during shaving.

The user can remove the cartridge 114 from the handle 112 by compressing the flexible arms 102 and 104 and pulling the handle 112 away from the cartridge 114, so that the gripping portions 132 and 134 release the biased cutting sections 154 and 156 of the housing. 138. The cartridge 114 can be discarded and then another cartridge 114 can be mounted to the handle 112, as described above.

With reference to FIG. 8, another possible embodiment of the present disclosure is shown illustrating a razor 200 having a handle 212 and a cartridge 214. The handle 212 may include a grip portion. elongated 224 and an enlarged proximal end portion 226. In certain embodiments the cartridge 214 may be removably and pivotably mounted to the enlarged proximal end portion 226 of the handle 212. In other embodiments the cartridge 14 may be removably mounted and fixed to the handle 12. The cartridge 214 can be removed from the enlarged proximal end portion of the handle 212 and replaced with a new cartridge 214 as needed by the user. An interconnecting member 216 may be provided to removably attach the cartridge 214 to the proximal end portion 226 of the handle 1 12. The interconnect member 216 may include a pair of support members 206 and 208 that extend partially around the enlarged proximal end portion 226 of handle 212. Support members 206 and 208 can minimize any swaying or pounding of cartridge 214 relative to handle 212. As will be described in more detail below, the proximal end portion 226 of the handle 212 may include a release mechanism, such as a button 222 to facilitate coupling and uncoupling of the interconnecting member 216 and the cartridge 214 of the handle 212. The button 222 may be driven, practically, perpendicular to a longitudinal axis VIII. -VIII of the shaver 200 and / or the button 222 can be operated and moved along the longitudinal axis VIII-VIII.

In certain embodiments, the interconnecting member 216 may have a pair of opposing arms 218 and 220 that are fixedly and pivotally connected to the cartridge 214. The opposing arms 218 and 220 may result in an open space or window below the cartridge 214. , what can be improved the ability of the water to rinse the cartridge 218 after shaving. The interconnect member 216 and the button 222 can be manufactured or molded as a single component (or separately molded and assembled afterwards) which is capable of removably and pivotably coupling the cartridge 214 to the handle 212, without the need for separate components assembled to handle 212 or cartridge 214, such as a spring member. The handle 212, the cartridge 214, the button 222 and the interconnecting member 216 can be molded from polymers such as high impact polystyrene (HIPS), but other polymers can also be used, such as polypropylene (PP) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Alternatively, handle 212 and / or button 222 may be composed of more durable materials, such as metals, composites, stiffer plastics or any combination thereof.

Now with reference to Fig. 9, there is shown a diagrammatic perspective view of the razor 200, illustrating the assembly of the cartridge 214, the button 222 and the handle 212. In certain embodiments, the button 222 can be molded by injection as a single piece with the handle 212. In other embodiments, the button 222 may be separately molded and assembled to the handle 212. The enlarged proximal end portion 226 of the handle 212 may have a generally oval shape defining a depressed surface 228. The depressed surface 228 may include a tongue member 230 and a pair of slotted projections 232 and 234. The tongue member 230 can support the button 222 and act as a return member or a tilting mechanism for actuating the button 222. The depressed surface 228 may define an opening 236 extending therethrough. A front wall 238 of the enlarged proximal end portion 226 may define a slot 250 extending through the front wall 238 and in communication with the opening 236 and the slotted projections 232 and 234. The slotted projection 232 and 234 may be a continuation of the front wall 238.

The button 222 may include a proximal end portion 242, and a distal end portion 240 and a pair of latches 244 and 246 between the proximal and distal end portions. The opening 236 of the enlarged proximal end portion 226 of the handle 212 can be sized to receive at least a portion of the button 222 and the pair of latches 244 and 246. The pair of latches 244 and 246 can couple a bottom surface of the latch. enlarged proximal end portion 226 of handle 212. When button 222 is located within opening 230, projection 242 of button 222 may be located between the pair of slotted projections 232 and 234 (as seen in Fig. 8) .

The pair of opposing arms 218 and 220 of the interconnecting member 216 may follow a path, generally arcuate from the cartridge 214, to a pair of guide members 202 and 204. A latch 252 having a free end 254 may be located between the pair of arms. guide members 202 and 204. The slot 250 extending within the front wall 238 of the enlarged proximal end portion 226 of the handle 212 may be dimensioned to receive the latch 252 and the pair of guide members 202 and 204. The slotted projections 232 and 234 can receive the guide members 202 and 204, respectively. The pair of guide members 202 and 204 can act as support members to facilitate deflection of the free end 254 relative to the pair of guide members 202 and 204.

With reference to Fig. 10, a lower perspective cross-sectional view of the razor 200, generally taken on the line XX of Fig. 8, is illustrated. The button 222 may have a bottom surface 260 that is sized to receive the tongue member 230. The tongue member 230 of the handle 2 2 and the bottom surface 260 of the button 222 may have a key adjustment, such as a "T" shaped geometry. The tongue member 230 can act as a support member and also as a return or spring member that tilts the button 222 in an unactuated position. The distal end portion 240 of the button 222 may be supported by the depressed surface 228 and the tongue member 230. The proximal end portion 242 of the button 222 may be supported by the free end 254 of the interconnect member 216. tongue 230 and free end 254 can apply a tilting force to button 222.

The engaging members 244 (246 not shown for clarity) can couple a respective slanted cut section 262 of the enlarged proximal end portion 226 of the handle 212 to attach the button 222 to the handle 212. The slanted cutting section 266 can guiding the engaging member 244 as it moves in a downward direction when the button 222 is actuated. The slanted section 266 also it can prevent the engagement member 244 from disengaging from the handle 212 when the button 222 moves in an upward direction. The distal end portion 240 of the button 222 may be in contact with the depressed surface 228 of the handle to prevent decoupling of the button 222. The latch member 246 and a corresponding skew section 264 of the enlarged proximal end portion 226 do not they are shown, but they work, practically, in the same way.

The cartridge 214 can be mounted to the handle 212 by inserting the interconnecting member 216 into the slot 250 of the enlarged proximal end portion 226 so that the guide members 202 and 204 are received by the respective slotted projections 232 and 234 (232 and 234). 202 are not shown for clarity). As the hitch 252 is inserted, the free end 254 may be deflected and coupled to a skewed cut 266 of the front wall 238 to secure the cartridge 214 to the handle 212. When the hook 252 is inserted, the free end 254 may come into contact with a bottom surface 268 of the button 222, causing the proximal end portion 242 of button 222 to be tensioned in a first position. The free end portion 254 acting on the bottom surface 268 of the button 222 can tilt the button 222 in the first tension position and can also act as a spring member to provide the user with the sound reaction as the button 222 it is activated. In the first tension position, the distal end portion 240 of the button may come into contact with the depressed surface 228 of the handle 212 at an angle, as shown in Fig. 10.

The user can detach the cartridge 214 from the handle 212 by actuating the button 222 to a second tension position. In the second tension position, the distal end portion 240 of the button 222 may be in more complete contact with the depressed surface 228 of the handle 212, as compared to the first tension position. When the button 222 is actuated, the bottom surface 268 of the button 222 can deflect the free end 254 of the catch 252, allowing the free end 254 to leave the skewed cut 266 free. Once the free end 254 leaves the skewed cut free 266, the cartridge 214 can be detached or expelled from the handle 212 thanks to the force generated by the deflection of the free end 254. After removal of the cartridge 214, another cartridge 214 can be mounted to the handle 212, as described above.

Referring to Fig. 11, a cross-sectional view of the razor 200 taken, generally, on line XI-XI of Fig. 8 is illustrated. The cartridge 214 (not shown) can be mounted to the handle 212 by inserting the interconnecting member 216 into the slot 250 of the enlarged proximal end portion 226. One or more of the guide members 202 and 204 may be asymmetrically shaped to provide a uniquely shaped loading feature 272 and 274, respectively. The uniquely shaped loading features 272 and 274 can prevent the interconnect member 216 from being mounted to the handle 212 inappropriately (e.g., upside down). The uniquely shaped loading features 272 and 274 may also impart lateral stabilization (eg, side to side or top to bottom) of the limb member. interconnection 216 relative to the handle 212. The increased lateral stabilization can provide a more secure connection between the interconnect member 216 and the handle 212 that reduces unwanted movement of the cartridge 214 (not shown), which can lead to cuts and an uncomfortable shave.

The uniquely shaped loading features 272 and 274 may include rails, channels or other features located on a top surface or a bottom surface of one or more of the guide members 202 and 204. The slot 250 may have a corresponding asymmetric geometry that may extend into one or more of the slotted projections 232 and 234 (not shown). The slot 250 and the slotted projections 232 and 234 can be sized to receive the uniquely shaped loading characteristics 272 and 274, so that the interconnecting member 216 can be mounted to the handle 212 in a single orientation. Loading in a unique manner provides the consumer with a more intuitive design and reduces the possibility of improper loading, which can result in damage to handle 212 and / or interconnect member 216. Even when the consumer has never used or not be familiar with the shaver 200, the consumer will be able to attach and replace cartridges 214 (not shown) quickly, adequately and easily by means of the interconnection member 216.

The dimensions and values set out in the present description should not be understood as strictly limited to the exact numerical values mentioned. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each of these dimensions will mean both the value mentioned as also a functionally equivalent range that encompasses that value. For example, a dimension expressed as "40 mm" will be understood as "approximately 40 mm".

All documents mentioned in the present description, including any cross reference or patent or related application, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety, unless expressly excluded or limited in any other way. The mention of any document does not represent an admission that it constitutes a precedent industry with respect to any invention described or claimed in the present description, or that alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, instructs, suggests or describes such invention. . In addition, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document contradicts any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated as a reference, the meaning or definition assigned to the term in this document shall govern.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those with experience in the industry that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, it has been intended to encompass all the changes and modifications within the scope of the invention in the appended claims.

Claims

NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION CLAIMS

1. A razor comprising: a handle having a grasping portion and a proximal end portion with a projection; a cartridge with at least one sheet; Y an interconnection member that connects the cartridge to the handle, the interconnection member has a housing mounted to the handle, the housing comprises a hitch having a free end, the hitch defines a pair of slits, the free end has a rim member releasably engaging the projection of the handle; Y a tongue member extending transversely from the free end and moving between a first position, characterized in that the rim member is coupled to the ridge, and a second position, characterized in that the rim member is disengaged from the ridge.

2. The razor according to claim 1, further characterized in that the projection has a hook member expanded with a gradually decreasing front end portion and a decreasing rear end portion.

3. The razor according to claim 2, further characterized in that the rear end portion of the enlarged hook member has a greater gradual decrease than the front end portion.

4. The razor according to claim 3, further characterized in that the enlarged latch member is spaced from a front wall of the proximal end portion of the handle.

5. The razor according to claim 4, further characterized in that the handle has components that do not move.

6. The razor according to claim 4, further characterized in that the housing defines an opening, and the projection is located within the opening of the housing.

7. The razor according to claim 4, further characterized in that the opening is asymmetric.

8. The shaver in accordance with the claim 7, further characterized in that the proximal end portion of the handle is asymmetric.

9. The shaver in accordance with the claim 4, further characterized in that by actuating the tongue member the flange member is caused to uncouple the projection and detach the interconnection member from the handle.

10. The razor according to claim 4, further characterized in that the tongue member and the housing are a one-piece component.

1. The razor according to claim 10, further characterized in that the interconnection member is pivotally attached to the cartridge.

12. The razor according to claim 10, further characterized in that the interconnection member has a pair of arms pivotally connected to the cartridge.

13. The shaver in accordance with the claim 12, further characterized in that the interconnection member is a one-piece component.

14. The razor according to claim 4, further characterized in that the projection of the handle has a first wall defining a groove that gradually decreases.

15. The razor according to claim 14, further characterized in that the housing has a guide member positioned within the gradually decreasing slot.

16. A razor comprising: a cartridge having at least one blade for shaving; a handle that includes a distal grasping portion and a proximal end portion, the handle has a pair of arms opposites, each of which has a hook member extending at an acute angle; Y a pivoting interconnect member attached to the cartridge and detachably mounted to the proximal end portion of the unitary handle, the interconnect member includes a housing defining a gradually decreasing aperture dimensioned to receive the pair of engaging members so as to insert the pair of latch members within the housing causes the latching members to deviate and engage in a skew section of the housing.

17. The shaver in accordance with the claim 16, further characterized in that the pair of opposing arms is integrated into the handle.

8. The shaver in accordance with the claim 17, further characterized in that each of the arms of the handle includes a curved finger guard to facilitate compression of the arms.

19. The razor according to claim 17, further characterized in that each of the pair of opposing arms includes an internal stop surface that comes into contact with the other to prevent over-compression of the arms.

20. The razor according to claim 18, further characterized in that the pair of opposing arms defines a slot in the form of a keyhole.