RU2782107C1 - Razor cartridge - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: shaving equipment.

SUBSTANCE: razor cassette comprises three or more parallel cutting elements located between the front longitudinal side and the back longitudinal side of the razor cassette in the direction of shaving of the razor cassette. Each of the cutting elements comprises a blade holder with a blade installation section and a blade. The cutting elements are positioned so as to allow for the formation of inter-blade gaps between the cutting edges of the blades. The front inter-blade gap is located closer to the front longitudinal side of the razor cassette than the back inter-blade gap. The back inter-blade gap is located closer to the back longitudinal side of the razor cassette than the front inter-blade gap. The front inter-blade gap herein is different from the back inter-blade gap. Invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a razor cassette, a shaving assembly, and a set of shaving parts.

EFFECT: increased comfort during shaving.

19 cl, 13 dwg

Description

This application claims priority over European patent applications EP 19154897.3 filed January 31, 2019, EP 19177659.0 filed May 31, 2019, EP 19177663.2 filed May 31, 2019, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

The embodiments described in the following disclosure relate to a razor cartridge, a razor cartridge manufacturing method, a razor assembly, and a related kit of parts.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Razor cartridges (also known as safety razor cartridges) are permanently or releasably attached to a razor handle that is oriented in the shaving direction in use. Razor cartridges typically include one or more cutting elements, each of which supports a blade mounted perpendicular to the direction of shaving. Razor cassettes are also typically provided with a guard (on the front longitudinal side of the razor cartridge in the shaving direction) and a cap (on the rear longitudinal side of the razor cartridge in the shaving direction). A skin care element is often also provided on the rear longitudinal side. In use, the user holds the razor handle in the direction of shaving and brings the razor cartridge into contact with the area of skin defining the shaving surface.

Typically, the shaving surface is defined by a tangent line intersecting the first and second skin contact points, such as the cutting edges of a shaving head. In simple terms, the shaving surface can be approximated by a line between the highest points on the skin-contacting surface of a razor cartridge, such as the flat surface between the top of the guard and the top of the shaving head cap. Moving the razor handle causes the blades of the razor cartridge to move across the shaving surface in the direction of the shave, allowing the blades to remove unwanted hair.

The characteristics of the shaver cartridges can be further improved.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect, a razor cartridge is provided. The razor cartridge comprises three or more substantially parallel cutting elements located between the front longitudinal side and the rear longitudinal side of the razor cartridge cartridge in the shaving direction of the razor cartridge.

Each of the cutting members comprises a blade holder comprising a blade mounting portion disposed on the inner surface of the respective blade holder which faces away from the shaving plane SH (shaving surface) in use, and a blade attached to said blade mounting portion.

The cutting elements are arranged in such a way that a plurality of interblade spaces located between the cutting edges of the blades are defined.

The front blade space, which is closer to the front longitudinal side of the shaver cartridge than the rear blade space, is different from the rear blade space, which is closer to the rear longitudinal side of the shaver cartridge than the front blade space.

In various embodiments of the present invention, the front blade gap, which is located closer to the front longitudinal side of the razor cartridge than the rear blade gap, is smaller than the rear blade gap, which is located closer to the rear longitudinal side of the shaver cartridge than the front blade gap.

In various embodiments of the present invention, the front interblade space, which is located closer to the front longitudinal side of the razor cartridge than the rear interblade space, is larger than the rear interblade space, which is located closer to the rear longitudinal side of the razor cartridge than the front interblade space.

According to one example, a razor cartridge is provided. The razor cartridge comprises three or more substantially parallel cutting elements located between the front longitudinal side and the rear longitudinal side of the razor cartridge in the shaving direction of the razor cartridge.

Each of the cutting members comprises a blade holder comprising a blade mounting portion disposed on the inner surface of the respective blade holder which faces away from the shaving plane SH (shaving surface) in use, and a blade attached to said blade mounting portion.

The cutting elements are arranged in such a way that a plurality of interblade spaces located between the cutting edges of the blades are defined.

In one example, the front blade space, which is closer to the front longitudinal side of the razor cartridge cartridge, is different from the rear blade space, which is closer to the rear longitudinal side of the razor cartridge.

The front blade gap, which is closest to the front longitudinal side of the shaver cartridge, is smaller than the rear blade gap, which is closest to the back longitudinal side of the shaver cartridge.

In other examples, the front blade gap, which is closer to the front longitudinal side of the shaver cartridge, is larger than the rear blade gap, which is closest to the rear longitudinal side of the shaver cartridge.

According to a second aspect, a method for manufacturing a razor cartridge includes:

obtaining a razor cartridge body and three or more cutting elements, each of the cutting elements comprising a blade holder, containing a blade mounting site located on the inner surface of the respective blade holder, which, in use, faces away from the shaving plane SH, and a blade attached to the specified site for installing the blade; and

arranging the cutting elements between the front longitudinal side and the rear longitudinal side of the razor cartridge body in the shaving direction of the razor cartridge, wherein, in use, the inner surface of the respective blade holder faces away from the shaving plane SH.

The cutting elements form a plurality of interblade spaces between the cutting edges of the blades.

The front interblade space, which is closer to the front longitudinal side of the shaver cartridge, is different from the rear interblade space, which is closer to the rear longitudinal side of the shaver cartridge.

According to a third aspect, a shaving assembly is provided, comprising:

- razor handle and

- a razor cassette according to the first aspect. The razor cassette is either releasably attached to the razor handle by means of a rotatable or non-rotatable connection integral with the razor handle by means of a non-rotatable connection, or integrally formed with the razor handle by means of a swivel joint.

In one example, the razor handle can be reused by replacing the razor cartridge, or the razor cartridge can be rigidly attached to the razor handle by a swivel or non-swivel connection.

According to a fourth aspect, a set of parts is provided comprising a razor handle and a razor cartridge case containing a plurality of razor cartridges according to the first aspect.

Additional implementation options are presented in the dependent claims and the detailed description, which is presented below.

The effect of the razor cartridge according to these aspects is that during shaving, the blade holders of the cutting elements come into contact with the skin (shaving surface) in addition to the cutting edges of the blade. Thus, the number of points of contact of the razor cartridge with the skin is increased up to double. The force exerted on the skin area by each cutting edge is significantly reduced, resulting in less skin damage (“scratches”) and a more comfortable shave.

The blade is mounted on the inner surface of the blade holder such that the blade holder simultaneously contacts the skin and the cutting edge of the blade during use. This means that the skin-contact areas of the blade holder reduce or minimize "skin bulge", thereby reducing the risk of scratches and cuts.

Another effect is that blade life is increased as less pressure is placed on the skin, resulting in a less aggressive shave and therefore the blades wear out at a slower rate.

Providing a blade spacing that varies from smaller to larger from the front longitudinal side to the rear longitudinal side of the razor cartridge means a less aggressive and smoother shave, resulting in less chance of scratches and cuts to the user, as well as skin irritation. Reducing the blade spacing towards the front longitudinal side of the razor cartridge improves razor glide along the shaving surface and improves skin support at the leading edge of the razor cartridge with the same number of blades compared to a conventional razor.

This makes said shaver cartridge suitable for frequent (daily) shaving. Daily shaving does not require as much hair removal as infrequent shaving. Therefore, a large gap in the immediate vicinity of the leading edge of the razor cartridge is not so important for frequent shaves. However, the advantages of the skin support concept using blades mounted on the inside surface of the blade holder still allow for an improved glide shave. In addition, this effect is achieved while improving the rinsing of the cassette due to the increased clearance near the trailing edge of the razor cassette. In an example in which the front blade spacing towards the front longitudinal side of the shaver cartridge is larger than the rear blade spacing towards the rear longitudinal side of the shaver cartridge, there is another effect in that the increased the gap between the cutting elements on the front longitudinal side of the razor cartridge allows the passage of more removed hair and a greater flow of debris and foam during shaving, and also provides a greater degree of rinsing. Users who shave infrequently wait several days between shaves, resulting in the need to remove more hair compared to a user who shaves daily. Therefore, the razor cartridge according to this example is better suited for users who shave less often, since the increase in the interblade space (or spaces) towards the front longitudinal edge of the razor cartridge allows to accommodate the denser and/or longer hair being shaved by the users. who shave less often.

The blade spacing is defined, for example, with respect to a plane intersecting the cutting edges of at least two blades of a razor cartridge. The line between the cutting edges of the first and second blades, perpendicular to the first and second cutting edges, represents the gap (or space) between the blades. In the application described below, the fact that the first inter-blade space and the second inter-blade space are "different" from each other means that the first distance defining the first inter-blade space in the transverse direction of the razor cartridge and the second distance defining the second inter-blade space in the transverse direction razor cassettes are available in various lengths. In other words, the first distance is, for example, greater than the second distance. In another example, the first distance is less than the second distance. In other words, the first distance defining the parallel separation of the first blade space is larger or smaller than the second distance defining the parallel separation of the second blade space.

In general, a razor cartridge according to the present disclosure is a razor cartridge in which each of the cutting members comprises a blade holder having a blade mounting portion disposed on an inner surface of the respective blade holder which, in use, faces away from the shaving surface, and on which blade spacing can be optimized to meet user requirements to provide a range of razor cartridges to suit a variety of shaving styles.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other characteristics will be apparent from the accompanying drawings, which form part of this disclosure. The drawings are intended to further explain the present disclosure and enable a person skilled in the art to put it into practice. However, these drawings are presented as non-limiting examples. Common reference numbers throughout the drawings indicate the same or similar features.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a shaving assembly.

FIG. 2a and 2b are schematic side views of a portion of a prior art razor cartridge in use.

FIG. 3 is a schematic side view of a portion of a prior art razor cartridge in use.

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the shaving assembly.

FIG. 5a is a schematic side sectional view of a razor cartridge taken from the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 along the axis PQ.

FIG. 5b is a copy of the schematic side sectional view of the razor cartridge shown in FIG. 5a, which is further annotated to illustrate blade spacing.

FIG. 6 is an alternate exploded view of an alternate razor cartridge embodiment showing the relative position of the optional trimming blade and/or skincare element subassembly (lube strip).

FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of the end of the cutting element.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the blade holder element.

FIG. 9 is a schematic side view of a cutting element comprising a blade mounting portion disposed on an inner surface of a respective blade holder which, in use, faces away from the shaving surface.

FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of four blades of a razor cartridge according to one embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a side view of the blade arrangement illustrating the reduction in skin bulge when the blade holder element is brought into contact with the skin during shaving.

FIG. 12 is an additional side view of the blade arrangement illustrating the benefit of contacting the blade holder element with the skin.

FIG. 13 shows a method for manufacturing a razor cartridge according to one aspect.

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a shaving assembly 1 according to one aspect. The shaving assembly contains blades that are not powered by a motor. The shaving assembly 1 comprises a handle 2 extending in the direction H of the handle between the proximal portion 4 and the distal portion 6 of the handle 2. The shaving cartridge 20 is mounted on the distal portion 6 of the handle 2. The shaving cartridge 20 will be described in more detail after the shaving assembly 1 is discussed.

The installation of the shaving cartridge 20 on the distal portion 6 of the handle 2 in the figure is carried out by means of a rotary bearing element 8a, which allows changing the coordinate system of the handle 2 relative to the coordinate system of the shaving cartridge 20, so as to change the angle of the shaving cartridge relative to the skin of the user and adapt to changes during use.

In particular, in use, the shaving cartridge 20 rotates relative to the handle 2 about the longitudinal axis L of the shaving cartridge 20. Said rotation allows the user, for example, to adapt to the contours of the body. The longitudinal axis L of the razor cartridge 20 is substantially perpendicular to the direction of shaving along the handle 2 handle. Another alternative is a shaver cartridge 20 which can be rotated about a second axis of rotation (rocking axis) substantially perpendicular to the L axis. parts of the holder of the cartridge 20 for the razor. In one example, pivot carrier 8a may further comprise or be replaced by a release mechanism 5a, 5b to allow a used razor cartridge to be quickly released from handle 2.

In one example, the handle 2 and the razor cartridge holder 20 are integrally formed with a pivot bearing member (not shown), such as a plastic spring member.

In one example, the handle 2 is provided with a grip portion 9 made of rubber or a rubber-like material to improve grip friction. In one example, the handle is provided with a thumb rest to enable the user to grip the handle 2 more securely.

FIG. 2a and 2b are schematic side views of a portion of a prior art razor cartridge in use. In conventional razor cartridges with three or more blades, the blade spacing is measured as constant in the range of about 1.05 mm to 1.5 mm, and the razor blade is mounted on top of the blade holder.

The term "top of the blade holder" for the purposes of this description means the side of the blade holder of the razor cartridge that is closest to the shaving plane SH (skin) of the user when the razor cartridge is used as shown in FIG. 2a and 2b. When using a razor cartridge with such top-mounted cutting elements, aggressive shaving may result in increased scratches and cuts, as well as increased irritation, since the cutting edges 30 of the blades on the blade holder only rest on the shaving surface SH (skin). This provides the skin with a relatively small support surface during shaving and causes an increased degree of "bulge" 12 of the shaving surface (skin) SH into the blade gaps.

FIG. 3 is a schematic side view of a portion of a prior art razor cartridge in use. To reduce the effect of skin protrusion 12, the inter-blade span (IBS) can be reduced as shown in FIG. 3. However, this reduces the rinsing gap, and debris such as foam or hair can easily block the gap, which is a narrow blade gap. Greater blade density (number of blades of the same size in a cartridge) is also required when the IBS gap between all blades is reduced.

According to a first aspect, a razor cartridge 20 is provided, comprising: three or more substantially parallel cutting elements located between the front longitudinal side 24 and the rear longitudinal side 25 of the razor cartridge in the shaving direction of the razor cartridge.

Each of the cutting members includes a blade holder having a blade mounting portion disposed on an inner surface of the respective blade holder that faces away from the shaving surface SH in use, and a blade attached to the blade mounting portion.

The cutting elements are arranged so as to form a plurality of interblade spaces between the cutting edges 30 of the blades.

The front interblade space, which is closest to the front longitudinal side 24 of the shaver cartridge, is different from the rear interblade space, which is closest to the rear longitudinal side 25 of the shaver cartridge.

In other words, according to various examples, the anterior blade gap is smaller or larger than the rear blade gap. The following description discusses various examples in which the anterior blade gap is larger or smaller than the rear blade gap.

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a razor cartridge 20 according to one example of the first aspect, in which the front blade gap is larger than the rear blade gap. "Partial Exploded View" means that some minor components of the razor cartridge 20 are not shown in said exploded view for the sake of clarity of the drawing.

Shaving direction S is indicated in FIG. 4 by the arrow S. In use, the razor cartridge 20 contacts the shaving surface SH (not shown in FIG. 4) and moves along the shaving surface SH in the direction of the arrow S.

The frame 21 may be partially or wholly made of synthetic materials such as plastic, resin or elastomers. The frame 21 includes a platform element 22 configured to be connected to the handle 2 of the razor assembly 1 either in one piece or through a connecting mechanism such as a pivot bearing member 8a or through an interconnecting member (not shown).

The guard 23 is provided as a substantially longitudinal edge of the shaver cartridge 20. In use, the guard 23 is the first portion of the shaver cartridge 20 to contact the uncut hair, and thus is located on the front longitudinal side 24 of the shaver cartridge 20. The side of the shaving cartridge 20 opposite to the front longitudinal side of the shaving cartridge 20 and opposite to the shaving direction is the rear longitudinal side 25 of the shaving cartridge 20. Thus, the rear longitudinal side 25 is the last portion of the shaver cartridge 20 to contact the shaving surface SH in use.

It should be noted that the terms "front longitudinal side 24" and "rear longitudinal side 25" are used to refer to specific locations on the shaver cartridge 20 and do not imply or require the absence or presence of a particular feature. For example, the guard 23 in one example may be located on the "front longitudinal side 24", and in another example, a pruning blade (not shown in FIG. 4) may be located on the "rear longitudinal side 25", but these need not be. places contained such signs.

The protective element 23 in one example contains an elastomeric element (not shown in FIG. 4). In one example, the elastomeric layer comprises one or more ribs extending longitudinally parallel to the guard 23 and substantially perpendicular to the direction of shaving. One purpose of such an elastomeric layer is, for example, to stretch the skin before cutting the hair.

The razor cartridge 20 in various embodiments may further include a cap on or near the rear longitudinal side 25, which is not shown in the embodiment of FIG. 4 for the sake of clarity.

The razor cartridge 20 further comprises a group of cutting elements 29 placed in the blade receiving section 31 of the frame 21. The group of cutting elements 29 comprises a plurality of cutting elements 28a-d. The group of cutting elements 29 is disposed in the frame 21 longitudinally and parallel to the shaving direction SH, so that, in use, the blades of the cutting elements 28a-d contact the shaving surface SH and cut off the hair present on the shaving surface SH when the razor cartridge 20 is moved over the shaving surface SH in the S direction. The specific design of the cutting element group 29 is described in detail below.

In one example, the razor cartridge is provided with three cutting elements. In one example, the razor cartridge is provided with four cutting elements. In one example, the razor cartridge is provided with five cutting elements. In one example, the razor cartridge is provided with six cutting elements. In one example, a razor cartridge is provided with seven or more cutting elements.

The group of cutting elements 29 defines a plurality of substantially parallel interblade spaces. The number of interblade spaces is one less than the number of cutting elements.

The frame 21 further includes a first latch 26 and a second latch 27 configured to hold the razor blades within the body of the razor cartridge 20. Frame 21 further comprises first and second side portions 16, 18, respectively. When the razor cartridge 20 is in the assembled state, the first and second side portions 16, 18 are configured to rigidly delimit the longitudinal ends of the guard 23, the cap 29 (if present, not shown in FIG. 4) and the group of cutting elements 29. First the side latch 26 and the second latch 27 may comprise, for example, a plastic, elastomeric or metallic material, and may also have a shape other than that shown in the drawing.

Although not shown in the drawing, the rotary carrier 8b in one example may be provided on the side of the shaver cartridge 20 configured to be connected to the rotary handle 2. Such a rotary carrier 8b in one example comprises two or more bearings. sliding, made with the possibility of connection with the rotary bearing element 8a of the handle 2.

The cutting elements contained in the cutting element group 29 are arranged in the shaving cartridge such that the two cutting edges 30 contained respectively on the two most forward (closest to the front side of the shaving cartridge) cutting elements of the cutting element group 29 define the front a blade gap that is closest to the front longitudinal side 24 of the razor cartridge 20 and which is larger than the rear blade gap formed between the two cutting edges that are closest to the rear longitudinal side 25 of the shaver cartridge in the embodiment shown in FIG. 4. These blade spacings are further shown in FIG. 10 and are discussed below. In additional, not shown embodiments, the front blade gap that is closest to the front longitudinal side 24 of the razor cartridge 20 is smaller than the rear blade gap formed between the two cutting edges that are closest to the back longitudinal side 25 of the razor cartridge. .

Each cutting element in the group of cutting elements 29 contains the holder 32 of the longitudinal blade. The longitudinal blade is mounted on the blade holder 32 . The cutting edge 30 of the cutting element 28a-d is oriented forward in the shaving direction S. The holder 32 of the blade of the cutting element 28a-d is an elongated curved piece of rigid material. For example, the blade holder 32 is made of a metal such as austenitic stainless steel.

Each cutting element in the group of cutting elements 29 is, for example, resiliently mounted in section 31 to receive a blade of the razor cartridge 20. The blade receiving section 31 comprises a longitudinal space in the razor cartridge 20, the size of which corresponds to the group of cutting elements 29. 31 to receive the blade. In the shown in FIG. 4, the transverse inner sides of the frame 21 comprise a plurality of retaining slots 34. Each retaining slot 34 on the transverse inner sides is configured to receive and hold one side of the blade holder 32 of the cutting element of the group of cutting elements 29, so that said cutting elements of the group of cutting elements 29 are held in a section 31 for receiving a blade with a substantially parallel blade spacing. Therefore, on each transverse inner side of the frame 21, there are as many retaining slots 34 as there are blade holder members.

Between the blade receiving section 31 and the handle (for example, in the part adjacent to the connection of the handle 2), in various examples, one or more transverse elements 35 are provided, which are integral with the frame 21. The transverse elements 35 may include a plurality of guides 36 of the blade holder made in the form of a plurality of protrusions aligned with the retaining groove 34 on the transverse inner sides of the frame 21. The guides 36 of the blade holder are designed to adjust the parallel interblade gap in the longitudinal direction.

As explained above, the razor cartridge 20 according to the first aspect has a variable inter-blade span (IBS). Therefore, in FIG. 4, the distance between the blade holders 32 gradually increases from the front longitudinal side 24 to the rear longitudinal side 25 of the razor 20 to create a variable inter-blade spacing (IBS). One alternative way to achieve such an arrangement is to gradually increase the distance between the retaining slots 34 provided on the transverse inner sides in the transverse direction (y to y) of the razor cartridge cartridge. The positioning and/or width of the guides 36 of the blade holder are proportionally adjusted so that in the group of inter-blade spaces IBS, the spaces between the cutting edges 30 of the cutting elements 28a-d are parallel to each other. In yet another embodiment (not shown), the distance between the blade holders 32 gradually decreases from the front longitudinal side 24 to the rear longitudinal side 25 of the razor 20 to create a variable blade spacing IBS.

The razor cartridge 20 shown in FIG. 4 includes four resilient fingers 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d located below the first latch 26. The shaving cartridge 20 includes four resilient fingers located below the second latch 27, which are transversely aligned with four resilient fingers 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d under the first latch 26.

In general, each of the eight resilient fingers applies a biasing force to the respective cutting elements of the cutting element group 29 towards the shaving surface SH, so that the cutting elements of the cutting element group 29 are in the home position after assembly. In the initial position, the cutting edges 30 of the blades 33 at each lateral end of the blades 33 next to the first and second locks 26, 27 abut, for example, against the respective locking areas. In one example, the locking portions may be the first 26 and second 27 latches.

Accordingly, the initial position of the cutting elements 28a-d is clearly defined, which ensures a high shaving precision. Of course, the illustrated bias device has many variations. For example, a plurality of resilient fingers may be provided on one or more of the transverse members 35. In a simplified design of a razor cartridge cartridge (for example, for inexpensive disposable razors), elastic fingers may be absent. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the number of resilient fingers 38 provided is related to the number of cutting elements 28a-d in the group of cutting elements 29, and fewer or more than eight resilient fingers 38 may be provided.

FIG. 5a is a schematic side sectional view of a razor cartridge taken from the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, along the transverse axis PQ, shown as a dotted line in FIG. 4. Where possible, like elements are identified by like reference numbers.

In addition to the elements shown in the partial exploded view of FIG. 4 in FIG. 5a also shows a longitudinal rear assembly 49, which in some examples may be included as part of the shaver cartridge 20, but this is not essential.

In particular, the longitudinal rear assembly 49 in various examples includes a longitudinal skin care element 50 (e.g., a lubricating strip) for applying a composition, such as a lubricating compound, to the shaving surface after the cutting edges 30 of the blades have passed along the shaving surface.

The longitudinal rear assembly 49 in various examples includes a longitudinal trimming blade 53 located on the rear longitudinal side 25 of the razor cartridge 20. The trimming blade 53 can be used, for example, to cut hair that is difficult to reach with the blades 33 of the cutting element group 29, such as sticky nose hairs. In one example, the undercutting blade 53 extends only in proportion to the longitudinal direction of the longitudinal rear assembly 49, up to three-fourths, one-half, or one-fourth, for example.

As shown in the drawing, the pruning blade 53 is mounted on the pruning blade holder 54. The pruning blade assembly 53 mounted on the pruning blade holder 54 is, in one example, identical in design to the blade receiving section 31, blade holder 32, and blade 33 contained in the cutting element group 29 to reduce unnecessary detail diversity. Alternatively, the pruning blade 53 and the pruning blade holder 54 are of a different design than the blade receiving section 31, the blade holder 32 and the blade 33 contained in the cutting element group 29.

For the purposes of this description, the trimming blade 53 is not included in the group of cutting elements 29 intended to contact the shaving surface. For the purposes of this description, the blade gap is defined between the cutting edges 30a-d of the blades 33a-d of the cutting element group 29, however, the gap between the cutting edge 53 of the undercutting blade and one of the cutting edges 30a-d of the blades 33a-d of the group of cutting elements 29 is not considered to be the blade gap. .

For example, the longitudinal rear assembly 49 includes a removable cover 52 as a safety feature and to keep the pruning blade 53 sharp when not in use.

Like the razor frame 21, the longitudinal rear assembly 49 and/or the removable cover 52 may be made of plastic or resin material. In one example, the longitudinal rear assembly 49 is integral with the frame 21. For example, the longitudinal rear assembly 49 is glued or ultrasonically welded to the frame 21, for example. the edge of the frame 21 in the shaving direction is the rear longitudinal side 25 of the shaving cartridge 20 . In an embodiment in which the shaving cartridge 20 includes a longitudinal rear assembly 49, the rear longitudinal side 25 of the longitudinal rear assembly 49 in the shaving direction is considered to be the trailing edge of the frame 21 in the shaving direction.

FIG. 5a shows a side view of the retaining slots 34 provided in the first and second retainers 26, 27, respectively, for holding the group of cutting elements 29. The plurality of blade holder guides 36 and the plurality of resilient fingers 38 shown in FIG. 4 are not shown in the projection of FIG. 5a for the sake of clarity.

FIG. 5a shows a gradually increasing spacing in the longitudinal direction between a series of holding slots 34 for holding a group of cutting elements 29 provided in the first and second side portions 16, 18 in the direction from the front longitudinal side 24 to the rear longitudinal side 25.

Of course, providing a sequence of retaining slots 34 in the first and second retainers 26, 27 to hold the cutting elements of the cutting element group 29 is not essential. The group of cutting elements 29 can also be supported using a plurality of blade holder guides 36 (protrusions), located, for example, on one or more transverse elements 35, on which a plurality of blade holder guides 36 provide a gradually increasing inter-blade gap in the longitudinal direction from the front longitudinal side 24 to the rear longitudinal side 25 of the shaver cartridge 20. In one example, a plurality of blade holder guides 36 and a series of retaining slots 34 may be used in combination to provide a progressively larger longitudinal spacing between the front and back sides of the razor cartridge.

FIG. 5b is a copy of the schematic side sectional view of the razor cartridge 20 shown in FIG. 5a, which is further annotated to illustrate blade spacing. The longitudinal line on the inner front longitudinal wall of the blade receiving section 55 which is closest to the shaving plane SH in use contains point O, which serves as the reference point O for the purposes of this definition.

The front gap 44 from the blade 33d to the frame 21 is a transverse gap (substantially aligned with the shaving direction S) perpendicular to the longitudinal orientation of the blades of the cutting element group 29, which spans the space between the inner front longitudinal wall of the blade receiving section 55 closest to the shaving plane SH ( starting point) in use, and the cutting edge 30d of the front blade of the cutting element group 29.

The front blade gap 40, which is the closest blade gap to the front longitudinal side 24 of the shaver cartridge, is a transverse gap (substantially aligned with the shaving direction S in use) that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal orientation of the blades of the cutting element group 29. The front blade gap 40 starts at a point on the cutting edge 30d and ends at a corresponding point on the cutting edge 30c of the first intermediate blade 33c.

The first intermediate blade gap 41 is a transverse gap (substantially aligned with the shaving direction S in use) that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal orientation of the blades of the cutting element group 29. The first intermediate blade gap 41 starts at a point on the cutting edge 30c and ends at a corresponding point on the cutting edge 30b of the second intermediate blade 33b.

The rear blade gap 42 is a transverse gap (substantially aligned with the shaving direction S in use) that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal orientation of the blades of the cutting element group 29. The back blade gap 42 begins at a point on the cutting edge 30b and ends at a corresponding point on the cutting edge. the edge 30a of the blade 33a which is closest to the rear longitudinal side 25 of the razor cartridge 20.

The rear spacing 45 between the blade and the frame is a transverse spacing (substantially aligned with the shaving direction S in use), i.e. is perpendicular to the longitudinal orientation of the blades of the cutting element group 29, the cutting edge 30a and the corresponding point on the inner rear longitudinal wall of the blade receiving section 56.

Thus, the total spacing of the blade receiving section 31 corresponds to the sum of the spaces 44, 40, 41, 42 and 45. In practice, the total spacing of the blade receiving section may be between 7 and 15 mm.

As described below, each blade mounting portion 71 is disposed on an inner surface 66 of a respective blade holder 32 that faces away from the shaving plane SH in use. The cutting edge 30 protrudes forward from the front of the blade holder 32. However, the blade holder 32 has a considerable thickness. For example, the blade holder 32 has a thickness in the range of 0.12 mm to 0.21 mm, more specifically in the range of 0.155 mm to 0.185 mm, and most specifically 0.17 mm.

Therefore, between each cutting edge 30 and the blade receiving end of each blade holder 32 of each cutting element of the group of cutting elements 29, there is a significant gap, defined as a transverse gap (substantially aligned with the shaving direction S in use) that is perpendicular to said longitudinal orientation. It may be referred to as the gap 43 between the cutting edge and the blade of the corresponding cutting element. Said spacing between the edge and the holder can be derived using trigonometry based on the thickness of the blade support 32 and the angle of inclination with respect to the shaving plane of the blade receiving section 31 of the blade holder 32.

In one example, each blade holder 32 of the group of cutting elements 29 is identical to the others and has the same thickness T2 and the same angle A of inclination. In this case, the spaces 43a, 43b, 43c and 43d between the cutting edge and the blade are identical.

In one example, one or more spaces 43a, 43b, 43c, and 43d between the cutting edge and the blade are in the range of 0.3 mm to 0.6 mm, and are specifically 0.5 mm.

In one example, at least one blade holder 32 of a group of cutting elements 29 has a different thickness and/or angle than the remaining blade holders 32. In this case, at least one gap 43a between the cutting edge and the blade is different from the others. The effect is that the individual spaces 43a-43d between the cutting edge and the blade can be adjusted to provide further fine control of skin bulging effects. For example, the gap 43a-43d between the cutting edge and the blade can be configured to gradually increase or decrease.

The front blade-to-frame gap 44 is a transverse gap (substantially aligned with the shaving direction S in use) that is perpendicular to the longitudinal orientation of the blades of the cutting element group 29. The front blade-to-frame gap begins at a point on the inner front longitudinal wall 55 that is at one example is closest to the shaving plane SH. The front gap between the blade and the frame ends at a corresponding point on the cutting edge 30d of the blade 33 of the front cutting element 28d, which in one example is closest to the shaving plane SH.

In one example, the front gap 44 between the frame and the blade is in the range of 0.5 mm to 0.9 mm, specifically 0.7 mm.

The rear blade-to-frame gap 45 is a transverse gap (substantially aligned with the shaving direction S in use) that is perpendicular to the longitudinal orientation of the blades of the cutting element group 29. The back blade-to-frame gap begins at a point on the cutting edge 30a of the blade 33a of the rear cutter 28a-d. The rear gap 45 between the blade and the frame ends at a corresponding point on the inner rear longitudinal wall 56, which in one example is closest to the shaving plane SH.

In one example, the rear gap 44 between the frame and the blade is in the range of 1.6 mm to 2.0 mm, specifically 1.8 mm. In one example, the front gap 44 between the blade and the frame is larger than the rear gap 45 between the blade and the frame. In one example, the front gap 44 between the blade and the frame is smaller than the rear gap 45 between the blade and the frame.

In one example, the front gap 44 between the blade and the frame is smaller than the rear gap 45 between the blade and the frame. In one example, the front blade to frame gap 44 is larger than the front blade to frame gap 40. In one example, the front blade to frame gap 44 is substantially equal to the front blade to frame gap 40. In one example, the front blade to frame gap 44 is smaller than the front blade to frame gap 40. In one example, the rear blade to frame gap 45 is larger than the back blade to frame gap 42. In one example, the back blade to frame gap 45 is equal to the back blade to frame gap 42. In one example, the back blade to frame gap 45 is smaller, than the rear blade space 42. In one example, each of the first intermediate blade space 41 and the second intermediate blade space 42 is substantially equal to the front blade space 40. In one example, each of the first intermediate blade space 41 and the second intermediate blade space is substantially equal to the rear blade space blade space 42. In one example, the first intermediate blade space 41 is larger than the front blade space 41 and smaller than the second intermediate blade space.

In one example, the second intermediate blade gap is equal to the rear blade gap 42. In one example, the front blade gap, which is closest to the front longitudinal side of the razor cartridge, is smaller than the rear blade gap, which is closest to the rear longitudinal side of the shaver cartridge.

FIG. 5b also shows a first debris removal section 46, a second debris removal section 47 and a third debris removal section 48. The width of the sections for removal of debris is determined by the relative distance between the cutting elements of the group 29 of the cutting elements. As shown in the drawing, the first section 46 for removal of debris is narrower than the second section 47 for removal of debris, which in turn is narrower than the third section 48 for removal of debris. The effect is that, in use, more hair cuttings and foam can be removed through said debris disposal portions (eg, debris disposal portion 48) that gradually approach the trailing edge of the shaver cartridge 20.

Calculation of the size of the front gap 44 between the blade and the frame and/or the rear gap 45 between the blade and the frame is optional. The front gap 44 between the blade and the frame may be greater than or less than the front gap 40, or equal to it. The rear gap 45 between the blade and the frame may be greater or less than the rear blade gap 42, or equal to it.

In one example, the anterior blade gap 40 is smaller than the rear blade gap 42.

In one example, the first intermediate blade spacing is equal to or greater than the front blade spacing. In one example, the first intermediate blade spacing is equal to or less than the back blade spacing. Although the figure shows a razor cartridge with four blades 33a-d, the present description also includes a razor cartridge with three blades or more than four blades. For example, five substantially parallel cutting elements 28a-d may be positioned in the shaving direction of the razor cartridge 20, with the second intermediate blade space defined adjacent to the rear blade space 42. In one example, each of the first intermediate blade space 41 and the second intermediate blade space the gap is essentially equal to the front interblade gap. In one example, each of the first intermediate blade space 41 and the second intermediate blade space is substantially equal to the rear blade space 42. In one example, the first intermediate blade space is larger than the front blade space 40 and smaller than the second intermediate blade space. In one example, the second intermediate blade spacing is equal to the rear blade spacing 42. In one example, successive blade spacings of the razor cartridge increase sequentially between the front longitudinal side 24 and the rear longitudinal side 25 of the razor cartridge in the direction of shaving.

In one example, each of the blade holders 32a-d includes a shaving plane contact portion 58 which, in use, is configured to contact the shaving plane SH in addition to the cutting edges 30 of the blades, thereby reducing pressure at each point of contact between the cutting edge and the shaving surface. . Thus, the pressure at the points of contact with the cutting edge can be reduced compared to a conventional shaving head, but the sliding characteristics remain improved.

FIG. 7 is a perspective sectional view of the end of the cutting element 28. The cutting element 28 is a subassembly containing a longitudinal blade 33 mounted on a longitudinal blade holder 32. The lower portion of the blade holder 60 is suitable for holding it in the retaining grooves 34 of the frame 21 of the shaver cartridge. The curvature 62 of the longitudinal blade holder 32 determines the approach angle of the longitudinal blade 33 to the shaving plane SH.

As shown in FIG. 9, the approach angle A determines the deviation angle of the inner surface of the blade holder 66 from the coordinate system of the blade holder 32. In one example, angle A is an acute angle that is in particular in the range of 60° to 75°, more specifically 68°.

As shown in FIG. 7, the longitudinal blade 33 includes a cutting edge 30 configured to cut hair. In one example, a rounded recess is cut into the sheet of metal forming the blade holder 32.

Typically, the blade is mounted on the outer surface of the blade holder so that, in use, none of the blade holder parts come into contact with the shaving plane SH.

Notably, in the present aspects and embodiments, the blade mounting portion 71 of the blade holder 32 is located on the inner surface of the respective blade holder that faces away from the shaving plane SH in use, and the blade is attached to the blade mounting portion 71 as shown in FIG. 7.

According to the present approach, the blade 33 is mounted on the inner surface of the respective blade holder and extends from under the inner surface defining the cutting edge-to-blade gap 43 located between the cutting edge 30 of the blade and the end of the blade holder 32 towards the shaving plane SH. In use, when the cutting member 28 contacts the shaving plane SH, both of the cutting edge of the blade 30 and the end of the blade holder 32 contact the shaving surface at the same time, resulting in a decrease in the force exerted on the shaving surface SH by, for example, one cutting edge.

In other words, the position of the blade 33 on the blade holder 32 when the cutting member 28a-d is mounted in the shaver cartridge is determined by the fact that an imaginary tangent extending from the surface of the blade 33, i.e. directed away from the shaving plane SH does not pass through any point of the blade holder 32 on which said blade 33 is mounted.

A further definition of the position of the blade 33 on the blade holder support is that when the cutting member 28a-d is mounted in the shaving cartridge, an imaginary tangent extends from the portion of the blade 33 contacting the blade mounting portion 71, which is directed toward the shaving plane SH, at in use passes through the blade holder 32 on which said blade 33 is mounted.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the longitudinal blade holder member 32 without the blade. It comprises a substantially elongated flat lower portion 60, a substantially elongated flat upper side 65 and a radial bend portion 62. The radial bend portion 62 may have an inner radius of curvature RO greater than 0.1 mm. The radial bend portion 62 may have an inner radius of curvature RO of less than 0.9 mm. The minimum recommended inner radius of curvature RO of the sheet metal should be at least the same as its thickness T. A safety factor for the thickness of the blade holder 32 may be applied. By multiplying the safety factor by the preferred thickness T (about 0.17 mm), the radius of curvature RO can be approximately 0.25 mm, in particular between 0.16 mm and 0.40 mm, more specifically between 0.25 mm and 0. 28 mm.

FIG. 9 is a schematic side view of a cutting member 28 having a blade mounting portion 71 disposed on an inner surface of the blade holder which, in use, faces away from the shaving surface SH.

As discussed above, the blade holder 32 may be made from a flat piece of metal that is bent prior to welding the blade 33 to the inner surface 66 of the blade holder 32. Thus, the cutting element 28 includes a blade 33 (razor blade).

The blade 33 has a thickness T1 of about 0.1 mm in its flat area (eg 0.04 mm to 0.11 mm). The total length L2 of the blade 33 between the cutting edge 30 of the blade 33 and the opposite trailing edge of the blade 33 is about 1 mm (eg, 0.8 mm to 1.3 mm). The portion of the blade 33 that contacts the inner surface 66 of the blade holder, which, in use, faces away from the shaving plane SH, has a length L1 that is about 0.49 mm +/- 0.1 mm. In this way, a good retention of the blade on the underside of the blade holder 32 (the inner surface of the blade holder 32) is ensured.

In one example, the height H of the cutting element 28 is between 2.53 mm and 2.63 mm, in particular 2.58 mm.

In one example, the front end 72 of the blade holder is rounded or beveled to improve the glide characteristics of the cutting element.

In one example, the blade 33 may be positioned on the inner surface 66 of the blade holder 32 to adjust the exposure E of the cutting edge 30 positively or negatively relative to the shaving surface SH. Exposure is a measure of how far the cutting edge 30 of the blade protrudes above or below the end 72 of the blade holder.

In one example, the blade 33 may be positioned such that its exposure relative to the shaving plane SH is in the range -80 µm to +80 µm, in particular, the exposure is about -75 µm, -65 µm, -60 µm, -55 µm , -50 µm, -45 µm, -40 µm, -35 µm, -30 µm, -25 µm, -20 µm, -15 µm, -10 µm, -5 µm, 0 µm, 5 µm, 10 µm, 15 µm, 20 µm, 25 µm, 30 µm, 35 µm, 40 µm, 45 µm, 50 µm, 55 µm, 60 µm, 65 µm, 70 µm or 75 µm.

The length L3 of the cutting element 28 between the cutting edge 30 and the outer surface of the lower portion of the blade holder 32 is about 1.0 mm (for example, 0.9 mm to 1.6 mm).

The blade 33 is attached to the inner surface 66 of the blade holder by any known method, such as laser spot welding. In various examples, the blade 33 is attached to the inner surface 66 of the blade holder with a plurality of spot welds (eg, ten to sixteen spot welds) distributed along the longitudinal dimension of the blade holder 32. Each of the spot welds may be made on the inner surface 70 of the blade 33. Alternatively, each of the spot welds may be made on the outer surface of the blade holder 68 or using a combination of both of the above locations.

FIG. 10 shows an exemplary schematic side view of an array of blade spacing elements 29 in accordance with one exemplary embodiment. Four razor blades in a razor cartridge according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 shows that the anterior blade gap 40 is smaller than the rear blade gap 42.

As shown in FIG. 10, the first intermediate blade gap 41 is larger than the front blade gap 40 but smaller than the back blade gap 42, however, this is not a significant feature. For example, the first intermediate blade space 41 may be equal to either the rear blade space 42 or the front blade space 40.

Specific measurements of blade spacing distance ranges are discussed below. One skilled in the art will appreciate that many variations and combinations of interblade spaces are possible that satisfy the features of the razor cartridge 20 described above, and the following discussion is not limited to the disclosed meanings.

In one example, the rear blade gap 40 ranges from 1.6 mm to 2.2 mm, from 1.70 mm to 2 mm, or from 1.75 mm to 1.95 mm.

When three cutting elements 28a-c are present, the rear blade spaces defined above can still be used in combination with the front blade space 42 in the range of 1.6 mm to 2.2 mm, 1.70 mm to 2.00 mm or from 1.75 mm to 1.95 mm.

When four cutting elements 28a-d are present, the front blade gap 42 ranges from 1.6 mm to 2.2 mm, from 1.70 mm to 2.00 mm, or from 1.75 mm to 1.95 mm.

In one example, the rear blade gap 40 is in the range of 1.7 mm to 2.2 mm, 1.8 mm to 2.0 mm, or 1.85 mm.

In one example, the first intermediate blade gap 41 is in the range of 1.55 mm to 1.95 mm, 1.60 mm to 1.80 mm, or 1.70 mm.

In one example, the anterior blade gap 42 is in the range of 1.4 mm to 1.8 mm, 1.50 mm to 1.65 mm, or 1.55 mm.

In one example, the front gap 44 between the blade and the frame is in the range of 0.4 mm to 1.0 mm, 0.5 mm to 0.8 mm, or 0.7 mm.

In one example, the back gap 45 between the blade and the frame is in the range of 1.7 mm to 2.2 mm, 1.8 mm to 2.0 mm, or 1.85 mm.

The ranges described above are generally increased compared to conventional razor cartridges. Cartridge flushability, as described herein, is generally improved because there is more available space between the rear cutters 28a-d for debris to drain closer to the rear edge of the shaver cartridge 20. The size of skin bulges is also reduced, which improves shaving performance.

In one embodiment, in which the front blade gap 40 is larger compared to the first intermediate blade gap 41 or the back blade gap 42, the first two blades that cut the most hair are spaced far enough apart to ensure reliable debris removal. Thus, a safer shave is ensured. The location of the blade holder "on top" of the blade provides an additional skin contact element (as well as cutting edges 30 blades) that supports the skin during shaving.

In one embodiment, in which the rear blade gap 42 is larger than the front blade gap 40, the successive blade gaps of the razor cartridge gradually decrease between the front longitudinal side 24 and the rear longitudinal side 25 of the razor cartridge in the direction of shaving.

In one example, any allowable combination of inter-blade spaces is possible, provided that the anterior inter-blade space, which is closest (or is closer) to the front longitudinal side 24 of the razor cartridge, is smaller than the rear inter-blade space, which is closest (or is closer) to rear longitudinal side 25 of the shaver cassette.

In yet another example, the size of the anterior blade gap 40 is in the range of 1.6 mm to 2.2 mm, 1.70 mm to 2 mm, or 1.75 mm to 1.95 mm.

When three cutting elements 28a-c are present, the anterior interblade spaces defined above may still be used in combination with the posterior interblade space 42 in the range of 1.6 mm to 2.2 mm, 1.70 mm to 2.00 mm or from 1.75 mm to 1.95 mm.

When four cutting elements 28a-d are present, the rear blade gap 42 ranges from 1.6 mm to 2.2 mm, from 1.70 mm to 2.00 mm, or from 1.75 mm to 1.95 mm.

In one example, the anterior blade gap 40 ranges from 1.7 mm to 2.2 mm, from 1.8 mm to 2.0 mm, or is 1.85 mm. In one example, the first intermediate blade gap 41 is in the range of 1.55 mm to 1.95 mm, 1.60 mm to 1.80 mm, or 1.70 mm. In one example, the rear blade gap 42 is in the range of 1.4 mm to 1.8 mm, in particular 1.50 mm to 1.65 mm, or 1.55 mm. In one example, the front gap 44 between the blade and the frame is in the range of 0.4 mm to 1.0 mm, 0.5 mm to 0.8 mm, or 0.7 mm. In one example, the back gap 45 between the blade and the frame is in the range of 1.7 mm to 2.2 mm, 1.8 mm to 2.0 mm, or 1.85 mm.

However, in this example, any allowable combination of inter-blade spaces is possible, provided that the anterior inter-blade space, which is closest (or is closer) to the front longitudinal side 24 of the razor cartridge, is smaller than the rear inter-blade space, which is proximate (or is closer) to the rear longitudinal side 25 of the shaver cartridge.

In this embodiment, in which the front blade space 40 is smaller compared to the first intermediate blade space 41 or the rear blade space 42, the blades towards the front of the razor cartridge 20 respectively have a narrower blade space (IBS), further reducing the risk of scratches and cuts. Thus, a safer shave is ensured. The location of the blade holder "on top" of the blade provides an additional skin contact element (as well as cutting edges 30 blades) that supports the skin during shaving. Since frequent shaves do not generate as much shaving debris, it is not as important that a large amount of debris has to be evacuated from the gap between the blades, which is closer to the leading edge of the razor cartridge.

FIG. 11 is a side view of the blade structure illustrating the reduction in skin protrusion when the blade holder member is in contact with the skin during shaving if the interblade gap is larger on the anterior longitudinal side compared to the posterior longitudinal side.

FIG. 12 is an additional side view of the blade structure illustrating the advantage of contacting the blade holder element with the skin when the interblade gap is larger on the anterior longitudinal side compared to the posterior longitudinal side.

FIG. 13 shows a method for manufacturing a razor cartridge according to a further aspect.

The method includes:

obtaining 74 a razor cartridge body and three or more cutting elements 28a-c, each of the cutting elements 28a-c comprising a blade holder comprising a blade mounting portion 71 disposed on an inner surface 66 of the respective blade holder which, in use, faces away from shaving plane SH, and a blade attached to said blade mounting portion 71; and

placing three or more cutting members 28a-d between the front longitudinal side 24 and the rear longitudinal side 25 of the razor cartridge body in the shaving direction of the razor cartridge, with the inner surface of the respective blade holder facing away from the shaving plane SH in use;

wherein the cutting elements 28a-d form a plurality of interblade spaces between the cutting edges 30 of the blades; and

wherein the front interblade space, which is closest to the front longitudinal side 24 of the shaver cartridge, is different from the rear interblade space, which is closest to the rear longitudinal side 25 of the shaver cartridge.

FIG. 1 shows a shaving assembly 1 according to a further aspect. The shaving assembly 1 comprises a razor handle 2 and a razor cartridge 20 according to the first aspect or one of its embodiments, wherein the razor cartridge is either releasably attached to the razor handle by a swivel joint 8 or a non-rotatable connection made by one piece with the razor handle by means of a connection without the possibility of rotation, or made in one piece with the razor handle using a swivel joint.

According to a further aspect, a set of parts is provided comprising a razor handle 2 and a razor cartridge case containing a plurality of razor cartridges, a razor cartridge 20 according to the first aspect or embodiments thereof.

In the previous description, a razor blade comprising at least three cutting elements 28a-c according to one aspect may have fourth and fifth blades according to specific embodiments. The front blade gap, the rear blade gap, the first intermediate blade gap and, where appropriate, the second blade gap are defined between the cutting edges 30 of respective three, four or five blades. For example, in the case of three cutting elements 28a-c, the first intermediate blade gap and the second blade gap are omitted. In the variant with four cutting elements 28a-d, there is no second intermediate blade gap. In the five-blade variant, there is an anterior interblade space, first and second intermediate interblade spaces, and a posterior interblade space.

In the foregoing description, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the particular detail need not be used in the practice of the present disclosure. In other instances, well-known materials or methods have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the present disclosure.

Reference in the foregoing description to "one implementation", "an implementation", "one example" or "example", "one aspect" or "aspect" means that a particular feature, construction or characteristic described in connection with the specified implementation or example, are included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, the appearance of the phrases "in one embodiment", "in an embodiment", "one example" or "example", "one aspect" or "aspect" in various places in this specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example.

In addition, specific features, designs, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable combinations and/or subcombinations in one or more embodiments or examples.

This disclosure extends to the following statements that define variants of the disclosed technologies:

A1. Cassette (20) for a razor containing:

- three or more substantially parallel cutting elements (28a-d) located between the front longitudinal side (24) and the rear longitudinal side (25) of the razor cartridge in the shaving direction (S) of the razor cartridge;

wherein each of the cutting elements (28a-d) comprises a blade holder (32) comprising a blade mounting portion (71) located on the inner surface (66) of the respective blade holder, which faces away from the shaving plane (SH) in use, and a blade (33) attached to the blade mounting portion (71);

wherein the cutting elements (28a-d) are positioned so as to form a plurality of interblade spaces (40, 41, 42) between the cutting edges (30) of the blades; and

wherein the front interblade space (40), which is located closer to the front longitudinal side (24) of the shaver cartridge than the rear interblade space (42), is larger than the rear interblade space (42), which is located closer to the rear longitudinal side (25 ) of the razor cartridge than the front blade gap.

A2. Cassette (20) for a razor according to statement A1, additionally containing:

- first and second sections (46, 47) for debris removal, located at least in accordance with the front interblade gap (40) and the rear interblade gap (42), respectively, while the first section (46) for debris removal has dimensions that provide the ability to remove relatively more debris than the second area (47) to remove debris from the respective front or rear longitudinal interblade spaces (40, 42) during shaving and/or rinsing.

A3. Cassette (20) for a razor according to any of the statements A1 or A2, containing:

- a fourth substantially parallel cutting element located between the front longitudinal side (24) and the rear longitudinal side (25) of the razor cartridge in the shaving direction (S) of the razor cartridge, wherein the first intermediate blade gap (41) is additionally defined between the front blade gap gap (40) and rear blade gap (42).

A4. Razor cassette (20) according to approval A3,

wherein the first intermediate blade gap (41) is equal to or less than the front blade gap (40).

A5. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of the statements A1-A4,

wherein the first intermediate blade gap (41) is equal to or greater than the rear blade gap (42).

A6. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of the statements A1-A5,

wherein the front blade gap (40) is in the range of 1.70 mm to 2.20 mm, more specifically 1.80 mm to 2.00 mm, and most specifically 1.85 mm.

A7. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of the statements A1-A6,

wherein the first intermediate blade gap (41) is in the range of 1.55 mm to 1.95 mm, more specifically 1.60 mm to 1.80 mm, and most specifically 1.70 mm.

A8. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of the statements A1-A7,

wherein the rear blade gap (42) is in the range of 1.4 mm to 1.8 mm, more specifically 1.50 mm to 1.65 mm, and most specifically 1.55 mm.

A9. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of the statements A3-A5,

wherein one or more of the front interblade space (40), the first intermediate interblade space (41) and/or the rear interblade space (42) are in the range from 1.6 mm to 2.2 mm, more specifically from 1.70 mm up to 2.00 mm or from 1.75 mm to 1.95 mm.

A10. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of the statements A3-A9, containing:

a fifth substantially parallel cutting element disposed in the shaving direction (S) of the razor cartridge, with a second intermediate blade gap defined adjacent to the rear blade gap (42).

A11. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of the statements A1-A10,

wherein each of the blade holders (32) comprises a shaving plane contact area which, in use, is configured to contact the shaving plane (SH) in addition to the cutting edges (30a, 30b, 30c, 30d) of the blades, thereby reducing the pressure in points of contact between the cutting edge and the shaving surface.

A12. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of the statements A1-A11,

wherein the successive blade spacings (40, 41, 42) of the razor cartridge gradually decrease between the front longitudinal side (24) and the rear longitudinal side (25) of the razor cartridge in the shaving direction (S).

A13. A method for manufacturing a razor cartridge, comprising:

obtaining (74) a razor cartridge cartridge body and three or more cutting elements (28a-d), each of the cutting elements (28a-d) comprising a blade holder (32) comprising a blade mounting portion (71) located on an inner surface (66) of a respective blade holder that faces away from the shaving plane (SH) in use, and a blade attached to said blade mounting portion; and placing (76) cutting elements (28a-d) between the front longitudinal side and the rear longitudinal side of the razor cartridge body in the shaving direction of the razor cartridge, with the inner surface of the respective blade holder facing away from the shaving surface (SH) in use;

wherein the cutting elements (28a-d) define a plurality of interblade spaces between the cutting edges of the blades; and

wherein the front interblade space, which is located closer to the front longitudinal side of the shaver cartridge than the rear interblade space, is larger than the rear interblade space, which is located closer to the rear longitudinal side of the shaver cartridge, than the front interblade space.

A14. Shaving unit (1), containing:

- the handle (2) of the razor;

- a razor cassette (20) in accordance with one of the statements A1-A12, wherein the razor cassette is either attached to the razor handle with the possibility of detachment by means of a swivel connection (8) or a non-rotatable connection made in one piece with the razor handle by means of connection without the possibility of rotation, or made in one piece with the razor handle by means of a swivel connection.

A15. Parts kit containing:

- razor handle and

- a razor cassette case containing a plurality of razor cassettes, a razor cassette (20) according to one of statements A1-A12.

B1. Cassette (20) for a razor containing:

- three or more substantially parallel cutting elements (28a-d) located between the front longitudinal side (24) and the rear longitudinal side (25) of the razor cartridge in the shaving direction (S) of the razor cartridge;

wherein each of the cutting elements (28a-d) comprises a blade holder (32) comprising a blade mounting portion (71) located on the inner surface (66) of the respective blade holder, which faces away from the shaving plane (SH) in use, and a blade (33) attached to the blade mounting portion (71);

wherein the cutting elements (28a-d) are positioned so as to form a plurality of interblade spaces (40, 41, 42) between the cutting edges (30) of the blades; and

wherein the front interblade space (40), which is located closer to the front longitudinal side (24) of the shaver cartridge than the rear interblade space (42), is smaller than the rear interblade space (42), which is located closer to the rear longitudinal side (25 ) of the razor cartridge than the front blade gap.

B2. Cassette (20) for a razor according to statement B1, additionally containing:

- first and second sections (46, 47) for debris removal, located at least in accordance with the rear interblade gap (40) and the front interblade gap (42), respectively, while the first section (46) for debris removal has dimensions that provide the ability to remove relatively more debris than the second area (47) to remove debris from the respective front or rear longitudinal interblade spaces (40, 42) during shaving and/or rinsing.

B3. Cassette (20) for a razor according to any of the statements B1 or B2, containing:

- a fourth substantially parallel cutting element located between the front longitudinal side (24) and the rear longitudinal side (25) of the razor cartridge in the shaving direction (S) of the razor cartridge, wherein the first intermediate blade gap (41) is additionally defined between the front blade gap gap (40) and rear blade gap (42).

B4. Cassette (20) for a razor according to statement B3,

wherein the first intermediate blade spacing (41) is equal to or greater than the front blade spacing (40).

B5. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of the statements B1-B4,

in which the first intermediate blade gap (41) is equal to or less than the rear blade gap (42).

B6. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of the statements B1-B5,

wherein the rear blade gap (40) is in the range of 1.70 mm to 2.20 mm, more specifically 1.80 mm to 2.00 mm, and most specifically 1.85 mm.

B7. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of the statements B1-B6,

wherein the first intermediate blade gap (41) is in the range of 1.55 mm to 1.95 mm, more specifically 1.60 mm to 1.80 mm, and most specifically 1.70 mm.

B8. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of the statements B1-B7,

wherein the front blade gap (42) is in the range of 1.4 mm to 1.8 mm, more specifically 1.50 mm to 1.65 mm, and most specifically 1.55 mm.

B9. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of the statements B3-B5,

in which one or more of the front interblade space (40), the first intermediate interblade space (41) and/or the rear interblade space (42) are in the range from 1.6 mm to 2.2 mm, more specifically from 1.70 mm up to 2.00 mm or from 1.75 mm to 1.95 mm.

B10. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of the statements B3-B9, containing:

a fifth substantially parallel cutting element disposed in the shaving direction (S) of the razor cartridge, with a second intermediate blade space adjacent to the rear blade space (42).

AT 11. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of the statements B1-B10,

wherein each of the blade holders (32) comprises a shaving plane contact portion which, in use, is configured to contact the shaving plane (SH) in addition to the cutting edges (30a, 30b, 30c, 30d) of the blades, thereby reducing pressure in points of contact between the cutting edge and the shaving surface.

B12. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of the statements B1-B11,

wherein the successive blade spaces (40, 41, 42) of the razor cartridge gradually increase between the front longitudinal side (24) and the rear longitudinal side (25) of the razor cartridge in the shaving direction (S).

B13. A method for manufacturing a razor cartridge, comprising:

obtaining (74) a razor cartridge cartridge body and three or more cutting elements (28a-d), each of the cutting elements (28a-d) comprising a blade holder (32) comprising a blade mounting portion (71) located on an inner surface (66) of a respective blade holder that faces away from the shaving plane (SH) in use, and a blade attached to said blade mounting portion; and

placing (76) cutting elements (28a-d) between the front longitudinal side and the rear longitudinal side of the razor cartridge body in the shaving direction of the razor cartridge, with the inner surface of the respective blade holder facing away from the shaving surface (SH) in use;

wherein the cutting elements (28a-d) define a plurality of interblade spaces between the cutting edges of the blades; and

wherein the front interblade space, which is located closer to the front longitudinal side of the shaver cartridge than the rear interblade space, is smaller than the rear interblade space, which is located closer to the rear longitudinal side of the shaver cartridge, than the front interblade space.

B14. Shaving unit (1), containing:

- the handle (2) of the razor;

- a razor cassette (20) according to one of statements B1-B12, wherein said razor cassette is either detachably attached to the razor handle by means of a swivel connection (8) or non-rotatably connected integrally with the razor handle by means of a connection without the possibility of rotation, or made in one piece with the handle of the razor by means of a swivel joint.

B15. Parts kit containing:

- razor handle and

- a razor cartridge case containing a plurality of razor cartridges, a razor cartridge (20) according to one of statements B1-B12.

C1. Razor cassette containing:

a first blade holder and a second blade holder, each of the first and second blade holders including a flat portion having an inner surface that, in use, faces away from the shaving surface S;

a first blade attached to an inner surface of a flat portion of the first blade holder, the first blade including a first cutting edge; and

a second blade attached to an inner surface of a flat portion of the second blade holder, said second blade including a second cutting edge; while the distance between the first and second cutting edges is in the range from 1.6 mm to 2.2 mm.

C2. Razor cartridge according to C1 approval, in which the distance between the first and second cutting edges is in the range of 1.70 mm to 2 mm.

C3. Razor cartridge according to C1 or C2 approval, in which the distance between the first and second cutting edges is in the range from 1.75 mm to 1.95 mm.

C4. The razor cartridge according to any one of the previous statements C1-C3, wherein each of the first and second blade holders includes a skin-contacting front end.

C5. A razor cartridge according to any one of the previous statements C1-C4, wherein at least one front end is rounded.

C6. The razor cassette according to any of the previous statements C1-C5, wherein each of the first and second blade holders includes a base portion extending at an angle β from the flat portion, wherein the angle β formed between the flat portion and the base portion of the respective first and of the second blade holder, is in the range from 104° to 120°.

C7. The razor cartridge of any one of Claims C1-C6, further comprising a third blade holder, said third blade holder including a flat portion having an inner surface that faces away from the shaving surface S; a third blade attached to the inner surface of the flat portion of the third blade holder, the third blade including a third cutting edge; moreover, the distance between the second and third cutting edges is in the range from 1.6 mm to 2.2 mm.

C8. Razor cartridge according to C7 approval, in which the distance between the first and second cutting edges is in the range of 1.70 mm to 2 mm.

C9. A razor cartridge according to any one of C7 or C8, wherein the distance between the first and second cutting edges is in the range of 1.75 mm to 1.95 mm.

C10. The razor cartridge of any one of Claims C7-C9, further comprising a fourth blade holder, said fourth blade holder including a flat portion having an inner surface that faces away from the shaving surface;

a fourth blade attached to an inner surface of a flat portion of a fourth blade holder, said fourth blade including a fourth cutting edge; wherein

the distance between the third and fourth cutting edges is in the range of 1.6 mm to 2.2 mm.

C11. A razor cartridge according to C10 approval, in which the distance between the third and fourth cutting edges is in the range of 1.70 mm to 2 mm.

C12. A razor cartridge according to C10 or C11, wherein the distance between the third and fourth cutting edges is in the range of 1.75 mm to 1.95 mm.

C13. The razor cartridge of any one of C7-C12, wherein the third and/or fourth blade holders include a front end that is configured to contact the skin.

C14. A razor cassette according to C13, wherein at least one front end is rounded.

C15. A razor comprising a handle and a razor cartridge according to any one of Claims C1-C14, wherein the razor cartridge is coupleable to the handle, where the razor cartridge comprises four blade assemblies, and the distance between successive cutting edges is 1.85 mm ±0.1 mm.

REFERENCE NUMBERS

Claims (44)

1. Cassette (20) for a razor containing: - three or more parallel cutting elements (28a-d) located between the front longitudinal side (24) and the rear longitudinal side (25) of the razor cartridge in the shaving direction (S) of the razor cartridge; wherein each of the cutting elements (28a-d) comprises a blade holder (32) comprising a blade mounting portion (71) located on the inner surface (66) of the respective blade holder, which faces away from the shaving plane (SH) in use, and a blade (33) attached to the blade mounting portion (71); wherein the cutting elements (28a-d) are positioned so as to form interblade spaces (40, 41, 42) between the cutting edges (30) of the blades; and wherein the front interblade space (40), which is located closer to the front longitudinal side (24) of the shaver cartridge than the rear interblade space (42), differs from the rear interblade space (42), which is located closer to the rear longitudinal side (25) razor cartridges than the front blade gap. 2. Cassette (20) for a razor according to claim 1, further comprising: - first and second sections (46, 47) for removal of debris, located in the rear interblade gap (40) and front interblade gap (42), respectively, while the first section (46) for removal of debris is sized to allow more debris to be removed than the second section (47) for removing debris from the respective front or rear longitudinal interblade spaces (40, 42) during shaving and/or rinsing. 3. The razor cartridge (20) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the front blade gap (40), which is located closer to the front longitudinal side (24) of the shaver cartridge than the back blade gap (42), is smaller than the rear an interblade space (42) which is located closer to the rear longitudinal side (25) of the shaver cartridge than the front interblade space. 4. The razor cartridge (20) according to claim 1 or 2, in which the front interblade gap (40), which is located closer to the front longitudinal side (24) of the razor cartridge than the rear interblade gap (42), is larger than the rear an interblade space (42) which is located closer to the rear longitudinal side (25) of the shaver cartridge than the front interblade space. 5. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of paragraphs. 1-4 containing: - a fourth parallel cutting element located between the front longitudinal side (24) and the rear longitudinal side (25) of the razor cartridge in the shaving direction (S) of the razor cartridge, while the first intermediate blade gap (41) is additionally defined between the front blade gap ( 40) and the rear blade gap (42). 6. Cassette (20) for a razor according to claim 5, wherein the first intermediate blade spacing (41) is equal to or greater than the front blade spacing (40). 7. Cassette (20) for a razor according to claim 5, wherein the first intermediate blade gap (41) is smaller than the front blade gap (40). 8. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of paragraphs. 5-7, in which the first intermediate blade gap (41) is equal to or less than the rear blade gap (42). 9. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of paragraphs. 5-7, wherein the first intermediate blade gap (41) is larger than the rear blade gap (42). 10. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the rear blade gap (40) or the front blade gap (42) is in the range of 1.70 mm to 2.20 mm, more specifically 1.80 mm to 2.00 mm, and most specifically 1.85 mm. 11. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of paragraphs. 5-9, wherein the first intermediate blade gap (41) is in the range of 1.55 mm to 1.95 mm, more specifically 1.60 mm to 1.80 mm, and most specifically 1.70 mm. 12. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of paragraphs. 1-9, 11, wherein the front blade gap (42) or back blade gap (40) is in the range of 1.4 mm to 1.8 mm, more specifically 1.50 mm to 1.65 mm, and most specifically 1.55 mm. 13. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of paragraphs. 5-9, in which one or more of the front interblade space (40), the first intermediate interblade space (41) and/or the rear interblade space (42) are in the range from 1.6 mm to 2.2 mm, more specifically from 1.70 mm up to 2.00 mm or from 1.75 mm to 1.95 mm. 14. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of paragraphs. 5-13 containing: a fifth parallel cutting element disposed in the shaving direction (S) of the razor cartridge, with the second intermediate blade space adjacent to the rear blade space (42). 15. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of claims 1 to 14, wherein each of the blade holders (32) comprises a shaving plane contact portion which, in use, is configured to contact the shaving plane (SH) in addition to the cutting edges (30a, 30b, 30c, 30d) of the blades, thereby reducing pressure in points of contact of the cutting edge with the shaving plane. 16. Cassette (20) for a razor according to one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the successive blade spacings (40, 41, 42) of the razor cartridge gradually increase or decrease between the front longitudinal side (24) and the rear longitudinal side (25) of the razor cartridge in the shaving direction (S). 17. A method for manufacturing a razor cartridge, including: obtaining (74) a razor cartridge body and three or more cutting elements (28a-d), each of the cutting elements (28a-d) containing a blade holder (32) containing a blade installation site (71) located on the inner a surface (66) of a respective blade holder which, in use, faces away from the shaving plane (SH) and a blade attached to said blade mounting portion; and placing (76) cutting elements (28a-d) between the front longitudinal side and the rear longitudinal side of the razor cartridge body in the shaving direction of the razor cartridge, with the inner surface of the respective blade holder facing away from the shaving plane (SH) in use; wherein the cutting elements (28a-d) define the interblade spaces between the cutting edges of the blades and wherein the front interblade space, which is closer to the front longitudinal side of the shaver cartridge than the rear interblade space, is different from the rear interblade space, which is closer to the rear longitudinal side of the shaver cartridge than the front interblade space. 18. Shaving unit (1), containing: - the handle (2) of the razor; - a cartridge (20) for a razor according to one of paragraphs. 1-16, wherein said razor cartridge is either detachably attached to the razor handle by means of a swivel joint (8) or a non-rotatable connection integral with the razor handle by means of a non-rotatable connection, or integral with the handle razors through a swivel joint. 19. A set of parts for shaving, containing: - razor handle and - a razor cassette case containing razor cassettes (20) according to one of paragraphs. 1-16.

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