WO2025065749A1

WO2025065749A1 - Shaving razor and related assembly

Info

Publication number: WO2025065749A1
Application number: PCT/CN2023/125109
Authority: WO
Inventors: Gregg Andrew MICINILIO; Zuky ZHANG; Jay Bunnell; Jiajun Shen
Original assignee: Edgewell Personal Care Brands, Llc; Zuky ZHANG
Priority date: 2023-09-29
Filing date: 2023-10-18
Publication date: 2025-04-03

Abstract

A razor includes a cartridge, a cartridge connector, and a razor handle. The handle includes a grip region and a connecting region. The connecting region includes an attachment component. The attachment component is within a hollow interior of the handle. The connector is attached to the attachment component within the handle.

Description

SHAVING RAZOR AND RELATED ASSEMBLY

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Technical Field

This disclosure relates generally to razors and implements for reducing the length of hair, and more particularly, razors that are manual or useful for wet shaving including a cartridge, a connector, and a handle.

2. Background Information

Razors of the wet shave type or the manual type include a cartridge and a handle that are connected. Some razors are disposable systems, where the cartridge is attached to the handle and the razor is meant to be discarded after the cartridge is exhausted (e.g., the blades are dull) . Some razors are system razors where the cartridge is attached to the handle and the cartridge can be replaced with a new cartridge once the cartridge is exhausted. In either case, razors include connecting structures to attach the cartridge to the handle. Some connecting structures are direct structures, where features on the handle attach to features on the cartridge. Some connecting structures require a separate component such that the separate component –a connector –matingly engages the cartridge and matingly engages the handle. Such a connector may be included with the cartridge such that the connector and cartridge are positioned to the consumer as a single item.

As consumers gravitate towards unique designs with unique materials, and further gravitate towards products that are further sustainable, it is desirous to consider materials occurring naturally and/or from recycled materials. With such designs and materials, variation in materials and tolerances creates further design hurdles and requires further designs that accommodate wider tolerances. Accordingly, improvements in attachment components for razor handle assemblies is desirous.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure includes an attachment component for a razor. The attachment component has a top surface generally opposite a bottom surface. The top surface and the bottom surface joined by a pair of lateral walls. The attachment component has a forward end generally opposite a rearward end. The attachment component has a cavity within the body of the attachment component, the cavity defining an internal surface.

The at least one attachment component includes at least one handle attachment feature. The at least one handle attachment feature is optionally at least one latch. The at least one latch optionally extends rearward from the body of the attachment component.

The at least one handle attachment feature is optionally at least one and up to eight snap features. The at least one snap feature has a cantilevered structure surrounded by a snap gap. The cantilevered structure includes a boss protruding upwardly from the snap feature.

Optionally, the latch as least partially defines the cavity.

Optionally, the at least one snap feature is on the bottom surface.

Optionally, the at least one latch extends along the bottom surface.

Optionally, the at least one latch extends from the forward end.

Optionally, the at least one snap feature extends from the rearward end.

Optionally, the at least one snap feature extends downwardly from the at least one latch.

The present disclosure further contemplates a razor handle. The razor handle optionally includes a sheet of material formed into a tubular shape. The handle has a top region that is generally opposite to a bottom region. The top region and the bottom region joined by opposing sides. The handle has a connecting end that is generally opposite to a grip end. The handle includes at least one bore or recess formed at least on an inner surface. At least part of the inner surface defines a hollow interior.

The razor handle further includes an attachment component that has a top surface generally opposite a bottom surface, the top surface and the bottom surface joined by a pair of lateral walls. The attachment component has a forward end generally opposite a rearward end. The attachment component has a cavity within the body. The cavity defines an internal surface.

The attachment component further includes at least one handle attachment feature. The at least one handle attachment feature is optionally at least one latch. The at least one latch optionally extends rearward from the body of the handle attachment feature.

The at least one handle attachment feature is optionally at least one and up to eight snap features. The at least one snap feature has a cantilevered structure surrounded by a gap. The cantilevered structure includes a boss protruding upwardly from the snap feature.

The at least one latch engages with the internal surface of the handle

The at least one boss is positioned within the at least one bore or recess.

Optionally, the sheet material having a first end and a second end that meet to form a seam.

Optionally, the at least one latch and the at least one snap feature have a preload and exert a compressive force against the internal surface of the handle.

Optionally, the at least one boss comprises two bosses.

Optionally, the at least one boss extends from the at least one latch.

Optionally, the at least one snap feature is a cantilevered structure surrounded by a snap gap that is in communication with the cavity within the attachment component.

Optionally, the razor handle further includes a button. The button has a button upper surface that is generally opposite to a button lower surface. The button has a button perimeter. The button lower surface further includes a guide member that extends downwardly from the button lower surface. The guide member has a ramp surface. The wall is spaced apart from the guide member. A channel is located between the wall and the guide member.

Optionally, the razor handle further includes a retention mechanism. The retention mechanism including a forward latch. The retention mechanism includes a rearward latch. The forward latch engages the ramp surface. The rearward latch engages a rib extending from the attachment component.

The retention mechanism further includes a spring. The spring engages the wall such that the spring is configured between the wall and the guide member.

The spring matingly engages a recess on the wall.

The present disclosure further contemplates a razor. The razor includes a cartridge having at least one blade and at least one attachment region.

The razor further includes a connector having a connector body. The connector has an outer surface. The connector has a front surface that is generally opposite a handle connecting section. The connector includes a pair of journals extending from the front surface.

The razor further includes a handle optionally comprising a sheet of material. The sheet of material is optionally formed into a tubular shape, a generally cylindrical shape, or as otherwise contemplated throughout the present disclosure. The handle has a top region that is generally opposite to a bottom region. The top region and the bottom region are joined by opposing sides. The handle has a connecting end that is generally opposite to a grip end. The handle includes at least one bore or recess. The at least one bore or recess is formed at least on an inner surface of the handle. At least part of the inner surface defines a hollow interior.

The razor further includes an attachment component. The attachment component has a top surface generally opposite a bottom surface. The top surface and the bottom surface joined by a pair of lateral walls. The attachment component has a forward end generally opposite a rearward end. The attachment component has a cavity within the body of the attachment component. The cavity defines an internal surface of the attachment component. The attachment component further includes at least one handle attachment feature. The at least one handle attachment feature optionally includes at least one latch extending rearward from the body. The handle attachment feature optionally includes at least one and up to eight snap features. The at least one snap feature has a cantilevered structure surrounded by a gap. The cantilevered structure includes a boss protruding upwardly from the snap feature.

The handle attachment section engages the at least one latch.

The handle attachment section is at least partially within the hollow interior of the handle.

The at least one latch engages with the internal surface of the handle.

The at least one boss is positioned within the at least one bore or recess.

The razor optionally includes a button. The button has a button upper surface that is generally opposite to a button lower surface. The button has a button perimeter. The button lower surface includes a guide member extending downwardly from the button lower surface. The guide member has a ramp surface. The wall is spaced apart from the guide member. A channel is located between the wall and the guide member.

Optionally, the button is situated within an orifice on the handle. The button is configured to move between a rear region of the orifice to a front region of the orifice.

Optionally, the connector further includes an ejection surface located on the outer surface of the handle connecting section.

Optionally, the retention mechanism further includes an arm that extends from the retention mechanism. The arm has a spring biasing surface.

Optionally, relative movement of the button the spring biasing surface applies a force to the ejection surface.

Optionally, upon application of the force to the ejection surface, the connector moves forward along a central axis outward of the hollow portion of the handle.

Optionally, the sheet material has a first end and a second end that meet to form a seam.

The foregoing features and elements may be combined in various combinations without exclusivity, unless expressly indicated otherwise. For example, aspects and/or embodiments of the present disclosure may include any one or more of the individual features or elements disclosed above and/or below alone or in any combination thereof. These features and elements as well as the operation thereof will become more apparent in light of the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, the following description and drawings are intended to be exemplary in nature and non-limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an angled illustration of a razor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a razor cartridge according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a side angled illustration of a razor cartridge according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3A is a bottom angled illustration of a razor cartridge of FIG. 3.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of an attachment component according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 4A -4E are illustrations of an attachment component according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a sectional illustration of a razor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5A is a sectional illustration of a razor handle, attachment component, and connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5B a sectional illustration of a razor handle and attachment component according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a sectional illustration of a razor handle, attachment component, and connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6A is a sectional detail illustration of FIG. 6.

FIG. 7 is a sectional illustration of a razor handle, attachment component, and connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7A is a sectional detail illustration of FIG. 7.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to exemplary FIG. 1, a razor 20 is provided and extends generally along the central axis 110. The razor 20 includes a razor cartridge 22, a razor connector 24, and a razor handle 26. For simplicity, the razor cartridge 22 will be referred to as a “cartridge 22” , the razor connector 24 will be referred to as a “connector 24” , and the razor handle 26 will be referred to as a “handle 26” . The handle 26 includes an attachment component 27, and optionally includes a button 84, and also optionally a retention mechanism 86. Collectively, the handle 26, attachment component, 27, the button 84, and the retention mechanism 86 are referred to as the “handle assembly 100” . One skilled in the art understands that even where the term “handle assembly 100” is not used, it may be used in conjunction with the aforementioned components.

As shown in exemplary FIG. 1, the cartridge 22 attaches to the connector 24, and the connector 24 attaches to the attachment component 27 and optionally also the handle 26, and such attachments will be discussed in greater detail below. Optionally, the cartridge 22 and the connector 24 are coupled as a single unit or are integral, particularly when packaged for sale to a consumer. Optionally and as shown in exemplary FIG. 1, the connector 24 and handle 26 are coupled as a single unit or are integral, particularly when packaged for sale to a consumer.

Referring now to exemplary FIGS. 1-3A, a cartridge 22 is provided. The cartridge 22 typically includes a guard 28 albeit certain embodiments don’t require the same, at least one blade unit 30, and a cap 32. As shown in exemplary FIG. 2, the cartridge 22 optionally includes a guard 28 spanning from a cartridge front end 34 and a rear edge 36 of the guard 28. The guard 28 extends laterally across the cartridge 22. The guard 28 –whether attached to the cartridge 22 or another portion of the razor 20 -is generally in front of the at least one blade unit 30. The guard 28 includes a skin-engaging surface 38 designed to stretch the skin, exfoliate, lubricate, moisturize, otherwise treat the hirsute surface 40, and/or align hairs as they enter the at least one blade unit. The guard 28 optionally has a topography 42 that includes peak surfaces 44 and valleys 46 between peak surfaces 44. Such topography 42 optionally includes fins, ribs, a comb-type structure, or other protuberances.

Referring now to exemplary and non-limiting FIGS. 2-3A, the cartridge 22 includes at least one blade unit 30. The at least one blade unit 30 includes at least one blade 48. In some embodiments, the at least one blade unit 30 includes at least two blades 48 in a stacked configuration, where the at least one cutting portion 52 extends outwardly and/or forwardly towards the guard 28.

As best seen in exemplary FIG. 2, the at least one blade 48 is optionally a welded blade 50 structure including a cutting portion 52 welded to a blade support portion 54 (either on the top surface 56 of the blade support portion 54 or a lower surface 58 of the blade support portion 54) , or is a bent blade 60 such that it has a cutting portion 52 and a blade support portion 54 or is generally flat where a cutting portion 52 is generally opposite the blade support portion 54. Optionally, the at least one blade 48 is optionally a double-edged blade, where each end extends oppositely within the cartridge 22 such that the end facing opposite to the guard 28 is a trim blade 66 in the cap 32. The trim blade 66 will be discussed in greater detail below. The blade support portion 54 faces towards the guard 28 or faces towards the cap 32. In certain embodiments, there are at least two blade units 30, 62. In some such embodiments, a first blade unit 30 includes at least one blade 48 positioned such that each of respective at least one cutting portion 52 are in a first direction, while the second blade unit 60 includes at least one blade 48 positioned with each of the respective at least one cutting portion 52 in a second direction.

The at least one blade 48 is optionally between one blade and seven blades, or between two blades and six blades, or between two blades and five blades, or is two blades, is three blades, is four blades, is five blades, is six blades, or is seven blades.

The at least one blade 48 includes a structure where the cutting portion 52 has a cutting edge 70 that is generally symmetric about a cross-section transverse to the length 72 of the at least one blade 48. Optionally, the at least one blade 48 includes a structure where the cutting portion 52 has a cutting edge 70 that is generally asymmetric about a cross-section transverse to the length of the at least one blade 48.

Referring now to exemplary FIG. 2, in some embodiments, at least one blade guard 64 is positioned such that it provides a support surface 40 for the hirsute surface 38 proximal to or adjacent the cutting edge 70. In some such embodiments, the at least one blade guard 64 is welded to the cutting portion 52 of the at least one blade 48 (at the cutting portion 52 or the top surface 56 of the blade support portion 54) , is positioned adjacent to the at least one blade 48 and welded or glued about the lower end 74 of the blade guard 64 and the blade support portion 54.

As shown in at least exemplary FIG. 2, at least one trim blade 66 is optionally provided. The at least one trim blade 66 is optionally within at least one blade unit 30. The at least one trim blade 66 is optionally within a second blade unit 62. The at least one trim blade 66 is optionally positioned such that its cutting edge 70 extends outwardly from the back side 76 of the cartridge 22. The back side 76 is generally opposite the portion of the cartridge 22 adjacent the skin engaging surface 38 and the hirsute surface 40. The at least one trim blade 66 is optionally positioned such that its cutting edge 70 extends outwardly from the cap 32 of the cartridge 22. In other configurations, the at least one trim blade 66 is positioned within the guard 28 (not shown) .

As shown in exemplary FIG. 2 in further embodiments, the cartridge 22 includes a skin support element 68 adjacent to the at least one blade unit 30 and/or within the at least one blade unit 30. For example, a skin support element 68 is positioned between the guard 28 and the first blade 48. In another example, a skin support element 68 is positioned between the first blade 48 and a second blade 49. In further embodiments, skin support elements 68 are positioned in an alternating fashion with blades 48. In yet further embodiments, a skin support element 68 is positioned between a first blade unit 30 and a second blade unit 62. In still further embodiments, the skin support element 68 is a dull blade or a blank (i.e., a blade that does not have a sharpened blade edge) . The skin support element 68 optionally includes varied topography to provide functionality akin to the guard 28 and/or the cap 32, and as such, may include skin-stretching, exfoliating elements, or hair aligning features, or may optionally include lubricants, skin benefit agents, combinations thereof, etc. The skin support element 68 is optionally a blade guard 64. Rinse-through gaps may separate the at least one blade 48 and the skin support elements 68. A skin support element 68 may be attached to or adjacent to the at least one blade 48 (e.g., a blade guard) . It is noted that the guard 28 and the cap 32 also function as skin support elements 68.

Referring to exemplary FIG. 2, the cap 32 is positioned rearward of the at least one blade unit 30. The cap 32 optionally includes skin benefit agents such as lubricating material, emollients, nourishing ingredients, moisturizing ingredients, astringents, aseptics, anti-coagulants, combinations thereof, etc.

In further embodiments, the guard 28 and the cap 32 include a skin benefit agent such as a lubricant or soap. The guard 28 and/or cap 32 can be movable such that the guard 32 and cap are swingable, deflectable, or pivotable about a connection axis 88 to the cartridge 22 (or optionally, an end of the at least one blade unit 30) .

As best seen in exemplary and non-limiting FIGS. 2-3, The razor cartridge 22 includes a frame 90 that includes one or more components. The guard 28, at least one blade unit 30, and/or cap 32 are optionally attached to and retained by or within the frame 90. The mechanical attachment of features of the cartridge 22 include, for example: a friction fit, press-fit, snap-fit, interference fit, or similar mechanical attachments, and can further include glue or other known means for attachment (e.g., ultrasonics, temperature to induce melt/fusion of materials, welding, etc. ) . The guard 28, at least one blade unit 30, and/or cap 32 are optionally integral with the frame 90. Further embodiments include an integral frame 90. In some embodiments, the at least one blade unit 30 is insert molded into the frame 90, and the guard 28 and the cap 32 are also molded with the frame, or are a second shot during molding.

As best seen in exemplary FIGS. 3-3A, the cartridge 22 includes at least one attachment region 94. The at least one attachment region 94 is in mechanical communication with reciprocal features on the connector 24 discussed in greater detail below. Alternatively, the at least one attachment region 94 is integral with at least one journal 96 on the connector 24. The at least one attachment region 94 optionally includes at least two attachment regions 94, or two attachment regions 94, 94A. The at least one attachment region 94 optionally includes a recess such as a bearing surface 98 such as a shell bearing. The at least one attachment region 94 optionally includes a recess such as a trunnion or other suitably shaped feature to engage with a reciprocal feature on the journal 96 of the connector 24. Optionally, the at least one attachment region 94 includes a pin or a pin receiving structure that also enables a pivotal connection with the razor connector 24.

In some embodiments and as shown in exemplary FIG. 1, the back side 76 of the cartridge 22 defines a track 106. The track 106 is positioned orthogonal 80 to the length of the cartridge 22. In some embodiments, the track 106 is positioned in the central portion 104 of the back side 76 of the cartridge 22.

The cartridge 22 may have a pivot axis (e.g., connection axis 88) in a variety of locations depending on the configuration of the razor 20, including a pivot axis (e.g., connection axis 88) within the guard 28, a pivot axis (e.g., connection axis 88) in the cap 32, a pivot axis (e.g., connection axis 88) generally centrally-located in the at least one blade unit 30, etc..

Referring now to exemplary FIGS. 3-3A, 5, 6A, and 7, the connector 24 includes a connector body 112 having an outer surface 114. The connector body 112 has a front section 116 generally opposite a handle connecting section 118. The handle connecting section 118 includes at least one stop surface 120, and optionally two stop surfaces 120, 120A. The connector body 112 has a top portion 122 and a bottom portion 124. The top portion 122 and the bottom portion 124 are joined by lateral sides 126, 126A. The connector body 112 as shown is generally arcuate, is generally circular in cross sectional shape, but is optionally other shapes such as triangular, polygonal, quadrilateral, combinations thereof, etc.

The connector body 112 includes an ejection surface 108 facing rearwardly. The ejection surface 108 is optionally on the top portion 122. The ejection surface 108 is optionally on the bottom portion 124. The ejection surface 108 is optionally on the handle connection section 118.

The handle connection section 118 optionally extends outwardly and/or rearwardly from the bottom portion 124. The handle connection section 118 optionally extends outwardly and/or rearwardly from the top portion 122. The handle connection section 118 optionally extends outwardly and/or rearwardly from the lateral sides 126, 126A.

The connector 24 is optionally multiple components attached together. The connector 24 is optionally integral. The connector 24 optionally includes movable or flexible portions as will be discussed in greater detail below. The connector 24 is optionally substantially rigid or has portions that are substantially rigid as will also be discussed in greater detail below.

The connector body 112 is configured to engage and attach to the attachment component 27 and optionally also the handle 26, as will be discussed in greater detail below. The connector 24 is configured to attach to the cartridge 22 as will be discussed in greater detail below.

In certain embodiments, the cartridge 22 is provided with the connector 24. The cartridge 22 includes a cartridge frame 90 including one or more pieces, a guard 28 consisting of one or more elements positioned forward of at least one blade unit 30. The at least one blade unit 30 includes at least one blade 48. A cap 32 is positioned aft of the at least one blade unit 30. The cap 32 optionally includes a skin benefit agent such as a lubricant. The guard 28, the at least one blade unit 30, and the cap 32 are positioned such that they are on the skin engaging surface 38 of the cartridge 22. The cartridge 22 optionally includes other features such as one or more trim blades 66. The cartridge 22 includes at least one attachment region 94 on the back side 76 of the cartridge 22 opposite to the skin engaging surface 38. The at least one attachment region 94 matingly engages with and/or is in mechanical communication with the respective journal 96 on the connector 24.

The connector body 112 includes a pair of journals 96 –a first journal 96 and a second journal 96A –that extend outwardly from the connector body. The first journal 96 and the second journal 96A extend from the connector 24 Each journal 96, 96A optionally includes a connecting feature such as a bearing surface (e.g., a shell bearing) , a recess such as a trunnion or other suitably shaped feature to engage with a reciprocal feature on the attachment region 94 of the cartridge 22. Optionally, each journal 96, 96A includes a pin or a pin receiving structure that also enables a pivotal connection with the respective attachment region 94, 94A of the cartridge 22.

The razor 20 includes a biasing element 102 that is in mechanical communication with the back side 76 of the cartridge 22 and the connector body 112. The biasing element 102 extends from the front section 116 of the connector 24. The biasing element 102 optionally extends from the journals 96, 96A. The biasing element 102 has a number of configurations including arcuate, elongate, etc. The biasing element 102 is optionally generally aligned along or generally parallel to the central axis 110.

Optionally, the biasing element 102 is attached to the connector body 112 by way of mechanical attachment such as by way of detents, friction fit, press-fit or latches, hot staking, welding, laser welding, ultrasonics, or glue. Optionally, the biasing element 102 is integral with the connector body 112.

Referring now to exemplary FIGS. 4-5B, the attachment component 27 has an attachment body 128 including a top surface 130 that is generally opposite a bottom surface 132. The bottom surface 132 and the top surface 130 are separated by lateral walls 134, 134A. The attachment component 27 includes a forward end 136 generally opposite a rearward end 138. The attachment component 27 includes a cavity 140 within the body having an internal surface. The cavity 140 is located at least partially within the top surface 130, the bottom surface 132, and the lateral walls 134, 134A. An external surface 142 is generally opposite the internal surface 144, and is defined by the top surface 130, lateral walls 134, 134A, and bottom surface 132. The external surface 142 extends along the forward end 136 and the rearward end 138.

On either or both of the top surface 130 and the bottom surface 132 is optionally a handle attachment feature 146. The handle attachment 146 feature is optionally located in either or both of the forward end 136 and the rearward end 138. The handle attachment feature 146 optionally includes a latch 148 having a cantilevered end 150 extending either rearward towards the rearward edge 152 or forward towards the forward edge 154. The handle attachment feature optionally includes snap features 156 that are similar to or are in conjunction with one or more latches 148. The snap features 156 include a cantilevered structure 158 within a snap gap 160. The snap gap 160 is optionally inward from either or both of the rearward edge 152 and the forward edge 154. The snap feature 156 includes a boss 162 protruding upwardly from the surface on which it extends. For example, if the snap feature 156 is located generally on the top surface 130, the boss 162 extends upwardly from the top surface 130. For example, if the snap feature 156 is located on the bottom surface 132, the boss 162 extends downwardly from the bottom surface 132. In embodiments where the snap feature 156 includes a cantilevered structure 158, the snap feature 156 is optionally peninsular such that it is surrounded by a snap gap 160. The snap gap 160 is optionally in communication with the cavity 140 within the attachment component 27. In some embodiments, there is at least one handle attachment feature 146, at least two handle attachment features 146, at least three handle attachment features 146, at least four handle attachment features 146, or optionally a single handle attachment feature 146, two handle attachment features 146, three handle attachment features 146, or four handle attachment features 146. While latches 148 and snap features 156 are contemplated herein, other handle attachment features 146 are within the scope of the present disclosure including, e.g., detents.

The rearward end 138 of the attachment component 27 includes at least one rib 161 extending inwardly into the cavity 140. The at least one rib 161 is proximal to the rearward edge 152. The at least one rib 161 is inward of the rearward edge 152.

The attachment feature 27 includes a retention mechanism 86. The retention mechanism 86 includes a retention body 166 having a spring portion 168. The retention mechanism 86 includes a first latch (e.g., a front latch) 170, and a second latch (e.g. a rear latch) 172. The retention mechanism 86 includes a rear wall 174. The retention body 166 includes a beam 176 along the length of the retention mechanism 86. The beam 176 includes an arm 178 having a spring biasing surface 180. The front latch 170 extends from the back surface 182 of the arm 178 from that is generally opposite the spring biasing surface 180. The arm 178 is optionally angled or forms a bend between the front latch 170 and spring biasing surface 180.

A button 84 includes an upper surface 184 that is generally opposite a lower surface 186. The button 84 has a button perimeter 188. Extending from the lower surface 186 is a guide member 190 including a ramp surface 192 on a lower portion 194 of the guide member 190. Extending from the lower surface 186 is a wall 196. The wall optionally includes a recess 198. The wall 196 is optionally spaced apart from the guide member 190 forming a channel 200 therebetween. Optionally, the upper surface 184 is tapered or arcuate and forms a stop surface 202 proximate the front end 204 of the button 84.

As shown in exemplary FIG. 1, a handle 26 is provided with the cartridge 22. As shown at least in FIGS. 1, and 5-7A, The handle 26 has a handle body 206 including a grip region 208. The handle 26 has a connecting end 208 generally opposite a rearward end 210. The handle 26 has outer surface 212 that is generally opposite an inner surface 214. The handle 26 has a top region 218 that is generally opposite a bottom region 220, the top region 218 and the bottom region 220 connected by generally opposing sides 222, 222A.

The handle 26 optionally has a wall thickness 224. The handle 26 is optionally thin. The handle wall thickness 224 is optionally between 0.1 mm and about 10 mm, between about 0.5 mm and about 5 mm, between about 0.5 mm and about 3 mm, or between about 1 mm and about 3 mm. The handle 26 is optionally at least partially hollow 228. In certain embodiments, the entirety of the handle 26 is hollow 228. The handle 26 is optionally a sheet of material that is formed such that opposing ends 226, 226A of the sheet are proximal to each other, thereby forming a seam 230 therebetween. The seam 230 is generally aligned with the central axis 110. The seam 230 is optionally located generally down the center of the top region 218 or the bottom region 220.

The handle 26 optionally includes at least one bore 232, and optionally a plurality of bores 232. The at least one bore 232 is located at the connecting end 210, albeit in embodiments having a plurality of bores 232, additional bores 232 are optionally located throughout the grip region 208 as well. The number of bores 232 is optionally commensurate with the number of handle attachment features 146 (e.g., latch (es) 148, snap features 156) . Optionally, the bores 232 do not extend through the wall 223 of the handle and are only a recess 198 within the inner surface 216.

The handle 26 has an orifice 236 having a front region 238 generally opposite of a back region 240. The orifice 236 is at the connecting end 210 of the handle 26. The orifice 236 extends between the outer surface 214 and the inner surface 216. The orifice 236 permits access to the hollow 228 interior of the handle 26. The orifice 236 is optionally positioned on the top region 218. The orifice 236 is optionally positioned on the bottom region 220. The orifice 236 has an orifice perimeter 246.

The handle 26 is optionally elongate, albeit short, stubby and other handle 26 shapes are options. The handle 26 is optionally generally cylindrical or tubular in shape. The handle 26 is optionally generally flat and thin, and optionally hollow 228. The handle 26 is optionally narrow. The handle 26 is optionally generally cubic, generally long, or includes a body having at least one generally cylindrical portion or generally tubular portion. The handle 26 optionally has a cross-sectional shape taken perpendicular to the central axis 110 that is cubic, prismatic, triangular, polygonal, oval, circle, arcuate, or combinations thereof.

In certain embodiments, the cartridge 22 and the connector 24 are attached and are optionally packaged/sold together. The handle assembly 100, and/or the attachment component 27, retention mechanism 86, button 84, and/or handle 26 are optionally attached and packaged/sold together. Optionally, the entire razor 20 is attached and packaged/sold as a single unit.

The at least one attachment region 94 enables the cartridge 22 to selectively attach to, or matingly engage with a connector 24. The track 106 interacts with the biasing element 102 on the connector 24. In certain embodiments, the biasing element 102 is on the handle 26 that engages through the connector 24 and interfaces with the track 106.

Referring now to exemplary FIGS. 5-7A, the attachment between the connector 24 and the attachment component 27 and the handle 26 will be described in greater detail.

During assembly, the attachment component 27 is positioned within the handle 26, and in certain embodiments, the hollow portion 218 of the handle 26. As such, the external surface 142 of the attachment component 27 is within the inner surface 216 of the handle 26. In embodiments where the handle 26 is a formed from a sheet material, the sheet material is formed into its intended shape prior to assembling the attachment component 27 therein. The handle 26 attachment feature (s) 146 is (are) preloaded to be biased outwardly, thereby configured to, upon attachment to the handle 26, exert a compressive force against the handle 26. The attachment component 27 exerts the compressive force at least through the handle attachment feature (s) 146, such as the at least one latch 148 and/or the at least one snap feature 156. The at least one latch 148 and/or the at least one boss 162 on the at least one snap feature 156 engage at least one bore 162 (or recess 198) of the handle 26. In embodiments having at least one bore 162, the at least one latch 148 and/or the at least one boss 162 of the at least one snap feature 156 are generally flush with the outer surface 214 of the handle 26 when the handle 26 and the handle attachment feature 146 are attached.

The retention mechanism 86 is in mechanical communication with the attachment component 27. The attachment component 27 at least partially surrounds the retention mechanism 86. The retention mechanism 86 is at least partially located within the cavity 140 of the attachment mechanism 27. The rear wall 174 of the retention mechanism 86 is positioned rearward of the rear rib 161 of the attachment component 27. The rear latch 172 engages a second rib 163.

The connector 24 is attached to the attachment component 27. The connector body 112 having a handle connecting section 118 interfaces with the forward end 136 of the attachment component 27. The forward end 136 of the attachment component 127 includes a cavity 140 suitably configured to receive at least a potion of the handle connecting section 118. The forward end 136 of the attachment component 27 optionally includes lateral walls 134, 134A extending outwardly and/or forwardly from the attachment component body 128. In such embodiments, the lateral walls 134, 134A provide at least one guide surface 135 to facilitate orientation of the handle connecting section 118 at least partially into the cavity 140 of the attachment component 27. The handle connecting section 118 is configured to have a geometry suitable for engaging the forward end 136 of the attachment component 27 and optionally connecting end 210 of the handle 26. In some embodiments, the connector 24 has at least one extension 242 from the handle connecting section 118, the extension 242 is inset from the lateral sides126, 126A of the connector body 112. Said differently, the at least one extension 242 is narrower than the connector body 112. Said differently, the at least one extension 242 has a width 244 that is less than a connector body width 234.

The connection between the connector 24 and the attachment component 27 is achieved by way of relative motion between the connector 24 and the attachment component 27 such as by translation, sliding, and/or pivoting motion. The connector 24 and the attachment component 27 are connected when the handle connecting section 118 engages, through the cavity 140, the internal surface 144 of the handle attachment feature (s) 146 (e.g., at least one latch 148, at least one snap feature 156) such that the handle attachment feature (s) 146 is (are) biased outwardly from their rest configuration. Such biasing optionally deflects the handle attachment feature (s) 146 outwardly from the external surface 142. Such biasing optionally deflects the handle attachment feature (s) outwardly from the external surface 142 and engaging the bore (s) 232 (or recesses 198) of the handle 26. Optionally, connection between the connector 24 and the attachment component 27 is reinforced when the stop surfaces 202 on the connector 24 are proximal to and/or are adjacent to the foremost ends of lateral walls 134, 134A.

Upon relative movement between the connector 24 and the attachment region 27, the first latch 170 of the retention mechanism 86 rides over the handle connecting section 118. The arm 178 of the retention mechanism 86 is positioned such that the spring biasing surface 180 is proximal to, adjacent to or against the ejection surface 180.

The button 84 is positioned within the orifice 236 of the handle 26 such that the button perimeter 188 is within the orifice perimeter 246. The button 84 is positioned such that at least a portion of the upper surface 184 extends upwardly and outwardly from the outer surface 214 of the handle 26. The lower surface 186 faces downwardly into the handle 26 (e.g., the hollow interior 228 of the handle 26) . The lower surface 186 faces downwardly towards the attachment component 27. The guide member 190 depends downwardly into the gap 164 in the attachment component 27 such that the ramp 192 portion of the guide member 190 engages the front latch 170. The guide member 190 extends downwardly and engages the rear latch 172. Optionally, the recess 198 matingly engages with the rear latch 172, and accordingly, each of the recess 198 and the rear latch 172 are configured to be suitably sized and shaped for such engagement. The rear latch 172 applies a force to the guide member 190 thereby retaining the button 84 adjacent the back region 240 of the orifice 236. The front latch 170 also applies a force onto the ramp 192 thereby biasing the button 84 downwardly and mitigating against the button 84 becoming detached from the handle 26. The handle attachment feature (s) 146 do not impede the functionality of the button 84. Accordingly, the handle attachment feature (s) 146 are optionally on the opposite side of the button 84, and for example, if the button 84 is positioned on the top region 218 of handle 26, the attachment feature (s) 146 engage the bottom region 220 of the handle 26.

As shown in FIG. 1, the button 84 is in the top region 218 at the connecting end 208. As shown in FIGS. 3-3A, 4-4B, and 4D-4E, the attachment component 27 includes two snap features 156. As shown in FIGS. 4B, and 4D-4E, the attachment component 27 includes two snap features 156. The two snap features 156 extend from and cooperate with a latch 148. As shown in FIGS. 4C, four snap features 156 are provided, where two snap features 156 are positioned in the forward end 136 of the attachment component 27 where each of the two snap features 156 are cantilevered 150 surrounded by a snap gap 160 that is in communication with the cavity 140. The other two snap features 156 are positioned in the rearward end 138.

Components of the razor 20 that are in mechanical communication with each other are attached by one or more of the following: a friction fit, a press-fit, an interference fit, at least one latch, at least one detent, or combinations thereof.

In order to disengage the connector 26 from the handle 26, the button 84 is moved relative to the handle 26 from the back region 240 to the front region 238. The button 84 is moved under an applied force to the upper surface 184 (e.g., the upper surface 184 extending to the stop surface 202) . As the force is applied to the button 84, the button 84 moves towards the front region 238 by way of, e.g., sliding, translation, pivoting, combinations thereof, etc. The guide member 190 exerts a force against the rear latch 172 causing the rear latch 172 to deflect further away from its rest state, and optionally deflecting outwardly or forwardly along the central axis 110. The front latch 170 slides, translates, pivots, rotates, and/or combinations thereof along the ramp surface 192. The spring biasing surface 180 applies a force against the ejection surface 108 causing the connector 24 to move outwardly or forwardly along the central axis 110. When the button 84 has traveled (relatively to the handle) to the front region 238 of the orifice 236, the connector 24 is released from the attachment component 27 and the handle 26. The button 84 can thereafter be released from the applied force and allowed to return to its rest configuration in the rear region of the orifice 236.

A variety of materials are suitable for razors 20. For instance, hard plastics are generally suitable for cartridges 22, connectors 24, attachment components 27, buttons 84, retention mechanisms 86, and handles 26, such as polypropylene, polyethylene and ABS. Thermoplastic elastomeric materials and rubbers are suitable for guards 28, caps 32, handles 26, attachment components 27, buttons 84, retention mechanisms 86, and various elements in the connector 24, and typically support skin supporting elements 68 and/or skin stretching/wiping, bending, frictional connections, grippability, etc. Metals such as sheet metal, metal alloys, aluminum and stainless steel are used for blades 30, 48, 62, springs, the handle 26, etc. Other materials including carbon fiber, composites, laminates, natural materials derived from wood and grass, compostable materials, recycled materials (e.g., recycled polypropylene) are also available.

The handle 26 is optionally a sheet material (e.g., sheet metal, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, brass, silver, plastic, paper-based or pulp-based material such as fiber board or carboard, wood veneer, combinations thereof, etc. ) and can be formed by bending, with or without steam and/or heat, casting, extrusion, injection molding, etc. Handles 26 optionally are punched or undergo laser cutting or plasma cutting to form the at least one bore 232. The ends 226 of the sheet material utilized to form the handle 26 are optionally fastened together by, for instance, a mechanical fastener, glue, hot staking, welding, soldering, brazing, etc.

The razor 20 of the present disclosure has a number of advantages. In embodiments having a thin material that is formed to create a handle 26 surrounding a hollow interior 228, the thin material (e.g., sheet metal) includes a seam 230. Each end 226 of the handle 26 material has inherent resiliency and during formation and despite efforts to consistently form such material, the ends may “spring-back” and thus cause significant deviations in tolerances. Such deviations can further cause aesthetic concerns. While it is possible to post-form such material after full assembly of the handle 26 (e.g., re-qualify the handle 26) , this adds an additional process step, and includes the risk of potentially damaging the attachment component 27, etc. The attachment component 27 of the present disclosure having the handle attachment feature 146 such as a latch 148 and the at least one snap feature 156 help retain the handle 26 in a specific shape and thereby mitigating against the “spring-back” effect. Accordingly, the additional processing step to re-qualify the handle 26 is obviated, and avoids options that can be a detriment to the aesthetics (e.g., welding or staking) .

The terms “substantially” , “generally” and/or “about” as contemplated herein are used with the appreciation that small variations in dimensions are within the present disclosure. Such small variations can include variations due to manufacturing tolerances and/or expansion/contraction and or wear of parts subjected to varying conditions (e.g., pressure, force, temperature, etc. ) .

While the principles of the disclosure have been described above in connection with specific apparatuses and methods, it is to be clearly understood that this description is made only by way of example and not as limitation on the scope of the disclosure. Specific details are given in the above description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it is understood that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details.

It is noted that the embodiments may be described as a process which is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a block diagram, etc. Although any one of these structures may describe the operations as a sequential process, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be rearranged. A process may correspond to a method, a function, a procedure, a subroutine, a subprogram, etc.

The singular forms "a, " "an, " and "the" refer to one or more than one, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term "comprising a specimen" includes single or plural specimens and is considered equivalent to the phrase "comprising at least one specimen. " The term "or" refers to a single element of stated alternative elements or a combination of two or more elements unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, "comprises" means "includes. " Thus, "comprising A or B, " means "including A or B, or A and B, " without excluding additional elements.

It is noted that various connections are set forth between elements in the present description and drawings (the contents of which are included in this disclosure by way of reference) . It is noted that these connections are general and, unless specified otherwise, may be direct or indirect and that this specification is not intended to be limiting in this respect. Any reference to attached, fixed, connected or the like may include permanent, removable, temporary, partial, full and/or any other possible attachment option.

No element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element herein is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U. S. C. 112 (f) unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for. ” As used herein, the terms “comprise” , “comprising” , or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.

While various inventive aspects, concepts and features of the disclosures may be described and illustrated herein as embodied in combination in the exemplary embodiments, these various aspects, concepts, and features may be used in many alternative embodiments, either individually or in various combinations and sub-combinations thereof. Unless expressly excluded herein all such combinations and sub-combinations are intended to be within the scope of the present application. Still further, while various alternative embodiments as to the various aspects, concepts, and features of the disclosures--such as alternative materials, structures, configurations, methods, devices, and components, and so on--may be described herein, such descriptions are not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list of available alternative embodiments, whether presently known or later developed. Those skilled in the art may readily adopt one or more of the inventive aspects, concepts, or features into additional embodiments and uses within the scope of the present application even if such embodiments are not expressly disclosed herein. For example, in the exemplary embodiments described above within the Detailed Description portion of the present specification, elements may be described as individual units and shown as independent of one another to facilitate the description. In alternative embodiments, such elements may be configured as combined elements. It is further noted that various method or process steps for embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein. The description may present method and/or process steps as a particular sequence. However, to the extent that the method or process does not rely on the particular order of steps set forth herein, the method or process should not be limited to the particular sequence of steps described. As one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate, other sequences of steps may be possible. Therefore, the particular order of the steps set forth in the description should not be construed as a limitation.

Claims

An attachment component for a razor, comprising:

a top surface generally opposite a bottom surface, the top surface and the bottom surface joined by a pair of lateral walls, the attachment component having a forward end generally opposite a rearward end, the attachment component having a cavity within the body, the cavity defining an internal surface;

at least one latch extending rearward from the attachment component;

at least one and up to eight snap features, the at least one snap feature having a cantilevered structure surrounded by a snap gap, the cantilevered structure including a boss protruding upwardly from the snap feature.
The attachment component of claim 1, wherein the latch as least partially defines the cavity.
The attachment component of claim 1, wherein the at least one snap feature is on the bottom surface.
The attachment component of claim 1, wherein the at least one latch extends along the bottom surface.
The attachment component of claim 1, wherein the at least one latch extends from the forward end.
The attachment component of claim 1, wherein the at least one snap feature extends from the rearward end.
The attachment component of claim 1, wherein the at least one snap feature extends downwardly from the at least one latch.
A razor handle, comprising:

a handle comprising a sheet of material formed into a tubular shape, the sheet material having a first end and a second end that meet to form a seam, the handle having a top region that is generally opposite to a bottom region, the top region and the bottom region joined by opposing sides, the handle having a connecting end that is generally opposite to a grip end, the handle include at least one bore or recess formed at least on an inner surface, at least part of the inner surface defining a hollow interior;

an attachment component comprising a top surface generally opposite a bottom surface, the top surface and the bottom surface joined by a pair of lateral walls, the attachment component having a forward end generally opposite a rearward end, the attachment component having a cavity within the body, the cavity defining an internal surface; the attachment component further comprising:

at least one latch extending rearward from the attachment component; and

at least one and up to eight snap features, the at least one snap feature having a cantilevered structure surrounded by a snap gap, the cantilevered structure including a boss protruding upwardly from the snap feature; and

wherein the at least one latch engages with the internal surface of the handle; and

wherein the at least one boss is positioned within the at least one bore or recess.
The razor of claim 8, wherein the at least one latch and the at least one snap feature have a preload and exert a compressive force against the internal surface of the handle.
The razor of claim 8, wherein the at least one boss comprises two bosses.
The razor according to claim 8, wherein the at least one boss extends from the at least one latch.
The razor of claim 8, wherein the at least one snap feature is a cantilevered structure surrounded by a snap gap that is in communication with the cavity within the attachment component.
The razor of claim 8, further comprising a button, the button having a button upper surface that is generally opposite to a button lower surface, the button having a button perimeter, the button lower surface comprises:

a guide member extending downwardly from the button lower surface, the guide member having a ramp surface; and

a wall spaced apart from the guide member;

wherein a channel is located between the wall and the guide member.
The razor of claim 13, further comprising a retention mechanism, the retention mechanism including a forward latch and a rearward latch, the forward latch engaging the ramp surface and the rearward latch engaging a rib extending from the attachment component.
The razor of claim 14, wherein the retention mechanism further comprises a spring, wherein the spring engages the wall such that the spring is configured between the wall and the guide member.
The razor according to claim 15, wherein the spring matingly engages a recess on the wall.
A razor, comprising:

a cartridge having at least one blade and at least one attachment region;

a connector having a connector body, the connector has an outer surface, the connector has a front surface that is generally opposite a handle connecting section, the connector including a pair of journals extending from the front surface;

a handle comprising a sheet of material formed into a tubular shape, the handle having a top region that is generally opposite to a bottom region, the top region and the bottom region joined by opposing sides, the handle having a connecting end that is generally opposite to a grip end, the handle include at least one bore or recess formed at least on an inner surface, at least part of the inner surface defining a hollow interior;

an attachment component comprising a top surface generally opposite a bottom surface, the top surface and the bottom surface joined by a pair of lateral walls, the attachment component having a forward end generally opposite a rearward end, the attachment component having a cavity within the body, the cavity defining an internal surface; the attachment component further comprising:

at least one latch extending rearward from the attachment component; and

at least one and up to eight snap features, the at least one snap feature having a cantilevered structure surrounded by a gap, the cantilevered structure including a boss protruding upwardly from the snap feature; and

wherein the handle attachment section engages the at least one latch;

wherein the handle attachment section is at least partially within the hollow interior of the handle;

wherein the at least one latch engages with the internal surface of the handle; and

wherein the at least one boss is positioned within the at least one bore or recess.
The razor according to claim 17, further comprising a button, the button having a button upper surface that is generally opposite to a button lower surface, the button having a button perimeter, the button lower surface comprises:

a guide member extending downwardly from the button lower surface, the guide member having a ramp surface; and

a wall spaced apart from the guide member;

wherein a channel is located between the wall and the guide member.

wherein the button situated within an orifice on the handle, the button configured to move between a rear region of the orifice to a front region of the orifice.
The razor according to claim 18,

wherein the connector further comprises an ejection surface located on the outer surface of the handle connecting section;

wherein the retention mechanism further comprises an arm extending from the retention mechanism, the arm having a spring biasing surface;

wherein relative movement of the button the spring biasing surface applies a force to the ejection surface;

wherein upon application of the force to the ejection surface, the connector moves forward along a central axis outward of the hollow portion of the handle.
The razor according to claim 17, wherein the sheet material has a first end and a second end that meet to form a seam.