Shaving razors and shaving cartridges

IS 2 365 348 T3

DESCRIPTION

Shavers and shaving cartridges

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to razor cartridges and more especially to razor cartridges that use clips to retain razor blades.

In recent years, razors with different number of blades have been proposed in the patent literature which have also been marketed, as described, e.g. For example, in US Pat. No. 5,787,586, a type of design is generally described which has been marketed as the Mach III three-blade razor by The Gillette Company. The blades of the Mach III razor are attached to the casing of a cartridge using clips. The clips extend across the blades and around the periphery of the housing.

Similar arrangements are described in US Patent 6,035,537 and US Application 2003/088984. An alternative construction for shaving underarm areas is shown in US 6,349,471 and EP 1 340 600, in which a retaining clip retains a plurality of blades in a housing. A pair of clip tabs extend through openings in the housing by bending inward to ensure that the clip extends through the openings in the housing and are bent inward to secure the clip to the housing. The clip surrounds the housing on the top and side surfaces. In another multi-blade shaving apparatus disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,276,061, an additional trimmer blade is positioned at an angle to a plurality of razor blades. The trimmer blade can be used for trimming, e.g. eg sideburns.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, the invention features a razor blade unit that includes a housing having a leading edge, a trailing edge, and side edges extending between the leading and trailing edges. The housing has a hole located between the front and rear edges. One or more razor blades are placed between the leading edge and the trailing edge and the one or more blades have cutting edges. A clip is provided to retain the one or more razor blades in the housing. The clip has a leg that is housed in the hole, the leg having a bent portion defining a curvature to secure the clip to the housing. A trimmer blade unit is retained in the housing.

In some embodiments, the clip has multiple legs, such as two legs. Each leg has an associated curvature. In some cases, the legs have different curvatures.

The legs are housed in the respective holes defined by the housing. The holes can be located between the leading and trailing edges.

In some embodiments, the clips are in electrical contact with the one or more razor blades and the trimmer unit such that they form an anode-cathode cell in which the clip functions as a sacrificial anode that corrodes and the one or more Most razor blades and the trimmer blade function as a cathode that is protected from corrosion.

In another aspect, the invention features a method of shaping a razor blade unit. The method includes placing one or more razor blades in a housing. Each leg of a clip is inserted through an associated hole defined by the housing and folded to secure the clip to the housing and retain the razor blades in the housing. A trimmer unit including a trimmer blade is attached to the housing.

In some cases, each leg is folded down to secure the trimmer unit to the housing. In some embodiments, the clip is in electrical contact with the trimmer unit, such that it forms an anode-cathode cell in which the clip functions as a sacrificial anode that corrodes and the trimmer blade functions as a cathode that is shielded. of corrosion. In some cases, the clip is in electrical contact with the razor blades, so that it forms an anode-cathode cell in which the clip functions as a sacrificial anode that corrodes and the razor blades function as a cathode that it is protected from corrosion.

IS 2 365 348 T3

Some aspects may include one or more of the following characteristics. The hole can extend from an upper surface to a lower surface of the housing. In some cases, the hole is located between the side edges.

In some cases, the clips keep the cutting edges of the razor blades in one plane. In some embodiments, the leg extends from an upper surface to a lower surface of the housing. The leg can extend through the hole and bend around at least a portion of the lower surface of the housing. In some embodiments the leg includes a relatively straight portion. In some embodiments, the leg has multiple bent parts. In some cases, the leg is bent to a bend greater than 90 degrees. In embodiments having multi-legged clips, the legs may extend through corresponding holes in the housing located between the leading and trailing edges. Each of the legs can bend around at least a portion of a lower surface of the housing and / or each of the legs can have a curvature greater than 90 degrees and / or the legs can have different curvatures. In some cases, the leg of the clip extends through an opening in the trimmer blade unit to retain the trimmer blade unit in the housing.

In some cases, multiple clips are provided to retain the one or more razor blades in the housing. The clips may extend into the associated holes defined by the housing between the leading and trailing edges. Each of the clips may have legs that have a bent portion (eg, curving more than 90 degrees) to secure the clip to the housing. The legs of each clip can bend around at least a portion of a lower surface of the housing. In some embodiments, the clips are located on the inside of the leading, trailing, and side edges, and spaced from each other.

In embodiments where a pair of clips is included, one of the pair can be placed near one of the side edges and the other of the clips can be placed near the other of the side edges so that the one or more razor blades have a blade length (Lb) extending between the clips. The razor blade unit may include an elastomeric element glued to the housing, the elastomeric element may have a length (Le) measured parallel to a blade axis that is greater than the blade length (Lb). In some cases, the elastomeric element includes a group of fins. At least one of the fins may have a length (Lf) measured parallel to the blade axis that is at least equal to the blade length (Lb). In some cases, the fins have an associated length (Lf) measured parallel to the blade axis that increases from the fin furthest from the one or more blades to the fin closest to the one or more blades. In some embodiments, both clips function as sacrifice elements.

In some embodiments, the sacrificial element functions as a clip to retain the razor blades within the housing. In some cases, the sacrificial element functions as a clip to secure the trimmer unit to the housing. In some embodiments, the trimmer unit includes a blade vehicle that includes a pair of openings configured to receive the clips. The blade carrier can be attached to the housing to provide an electrical connection from the sacrificial member to the trimmer blade. The blade vehicle, the razor blades and / or the trimmer blade can be made of stainless steel.

In some embodiments, the folded portion is formed by folding. In some embodiments, the clip and / or sacrificial element is made of aluminum, aluminum alloy, or stainless steel.

In other aspects, the invention also features razors having a cartridge and a handle that can be removably or permanently attached to the cartridge. These razors can include any of the features mentioned above. For example, in one aspect, the invention features a razor that includes a handle and a shaving cartridge that includes a connecting structure that connects the cartridge to the handle. The shaving cartridge includes a housing having a leading edge, a trailing edge, and side edges that extend between the leading and trailing edges, the housing defining a hole between the leading and trailing edges. One or more razor blades are positioned between the leading edge and the trailing edge, the one or more blades having cutting edges arranged to define a first cutting region and a clip is provided to retain the one or more razor blades in the Case. The clip has a leg that is housed in the hole, the leg having a bent portion defining a curvature to secure the clip to the housing.

Aspects of the invention may include one or more of the following advantages. A wider blade unit can be provided without substantially increasing the length of the clips because the clips are positioned on the inside of the leading and trailing edges of the blade unit. An internal arrangement of the clips also facilitates the use of a longer and wider guard. The legs can be relatively encased within the holes and bent over the housing using relatively sharp bends (i.e. bends having a relatively short bending radius), which tends to provide a secure attachment of the clips to the housing, making it difficult removing the clips from the holes without breaking the clip. In some embodiments, making the metal clips and bending the

ES 2 365 348 T3 metal with an angled shape can be relatively difficult to straighten the clips sufficiently to extract the bent portions through the slotted holes. As a further example, the clips can be provided as a sacrificial anode for the razor blades as well as the trimmer blade to inhibit or protect the blades from corrosion, which can increase the life of the blades.

Other advantages and characteristics of the invention will become apparent upon reading the following description of certain embodiments as well as the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a razor.

Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the shaver of Fig. 1 with the cartridge disconnected from the handle.

Fig. 2A is a perspective view of the handle of Fig. 2.

Fig. 3 is a front view of the cartridge of Fig. 2.

Fig. 3A is a sectional view of an elastomeric element of Fig. 3, taken along the line AA of Fig. 3.

Fig. 3B is a rear view of the cartridge of Fig. 3.

Figs. 3C and 3D are perspective views of the cartridge of Fig. 3.

Fig. 4 is a front view of a cartridge housing that includes an elastomeric element.

Fig. 5 is a sectional view of the cartridge of Fig. 3, taken along line 5-5 of Fig. 3.

Fig. 6 is a sectional view of the hook of Fig. 5.

Fig. 7 is a vertical sectional view showing the relative positions of some of the components of a cartridge of the shaver of Fig. 1.

Fig. 8 is a top view of a cutting element of the cartridge of Fig. 3.

Fig. 9 is a front view of the cutting element of Fig. 8.

Fig. 10 is a vertical sectional view of the cutting element of Fig. 8.

Fig. 11 is an enlarged vertical sectional view of the cutting element of Fig. 8.

Fig. 12 is a vertical sectional view of a cutting element of the state of the art.

Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a blade unit of the razor of Fig. 1 with the main blades removed.

Fig. 14 is a plan view of a trimmer unit of the blade unit of Fig. 13.

Fig. 15 is a rear elevation view of the trimmer unit of Fig. 14.

Fig. 16 is a bottom view of the trimmer unit of Fig. 14.

IS 2 365 348 T3

Fig. 17 is a front elevation view of the trimmer unit of Fig. 14.

Fig. 18 is a vertical sectional view, taken at 18-18 of Fig. 16, of the blade unit housing of Fig. 3.

Fig. 19 is a vertical sectional view, taken at 19-19 of Fig. 16, of a part of the blade unit of Fig. 3.

Fig. 20 is a vertical sectional view, taken at 19-19 of Fig. 16, of a part of the blade unit of Fig. 3.

Fig. 21 is a perspective view of the blade unit of Fig. 3 with the blades removed.

Fig. 22 is a perspective view of the rear of the blade unit housing of Fig. 3.

Fig. 23 is a sectional view of the blade unit of Fig. 3.

Fig. 24 is a rear perspective view of the housing including the elastomeric element of Fig. 4.

Fig. 25 is an end view of the housing including the elastomeric element of Fig. 24.

Fig. 26 is a front view of the cartridge of Fig. 3.

Fig. 27 is a sectional view of the blade unit of Fig. 3 resting against the skin.

Fig. 28 is an exploded view of the handle of Fig. 2A, and Fig. 28A is a detailed view of several of the components of Fig. 28 within area A.

Figs. 29 and 30 are front and side views, respectively, of an interconnecting element of the handle.

Figs. 31-33 are top, front, and side views, respectively, of a release button.

Figs. 34 and 35 are a front view and sectional view of a plunger.

Figs. 36-38 are rear, front, and top views, respectively, of a connecting element.

Fig. 37A is a detailed view of a finger of the connecting element of Figs. 36-38.

Fig. 39 is a sectional view of the handle through line 39 of Fig. 2A, including the connecting element.

Fig. 40 is a sectional view of the cartridge of Fig. 3.

Fig. 41 is a sectional view of the handle of Fig. 2A connected to the connecting element of Figs. 36-38.

Fig. 41A is a sectional view of the handle of Fig. 2A through line 41-41, showing the release button being actuated to disconnect the cartridge from the handle.

Figs. 42 and 43 are sectional views of the handle of Fig. 2 through line 42-42, showing, respectively, the release button of Figs. 31-33 in rest and actuation position.

Fig. 44 is a sectional view of the handle housing, including the release button.

IS 2 365 348 T3

Fig. 45 is a side view of the razor of Fig. 1, resting against the skin during a trimming operation.

Fig. 46 is a front view of the shaver of Fig. 1.

Fig. 47A is a sectional view of the cartridge of Fig. 3 in the rest position and of the plunger of Figs. 34 and 35, and Fig. 47B is a sectional view of the cartridge of Fig. 3 in a fully rotated position and of the plunger of Figs. 34 and 35.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In Figs. 1 and 2, the razor 10 includes a disposable cartridge 12 and a handle 14 (Fig. 2A). Cartridge 12 includes a connecting element 18 that removably connects cartridge 12 to handle 14 and a blade unit 16 that is pivotally connected to connecting element 18. Referring also to Figs. 3, 3C and 3D, the blade unit 16 includes a plastic casing 20, a guard 22 on the front of the casing 20, a plug 24 with a lubricating strip 26 on the rear of the casing 20, five blades 28 located between shield 22 and plug 24, and a trimmer blade unit 30 (Fig. 3C) attached to the rear of housing 20 by hooks 32, which also retain blades 28 within housing 20.

In Fig. 4, which shows the blade unit 16 with the blades removed, the housing 20 of the blade unit 16 has inwardly facing slots 33 in the side walls 34 to accommodate the ends of the blade holders 400 ( see Fig. 7). The housing 20 also has respective pairs of resilient arms 36, extending from the side walls, on which each sheet 28 is resiliently supported. The sheets 28 are located in a relatively unobstructed region between the side walls 34, e.g. For example, to facilitate rinsing the cartridge during use.

Referring again to Fig. 3, the cap 24 enables a lubricating shaving aid to be obtained and is housed in the slot 38 (Fig. 4), at the rear of the housing 20. The cap 24 may be made of a material comprising a mixture of a hydrophobic material and a water-permeable hydrophilic polymeric material, as is known in the art, e.g. g., in US Pat. Nos. 5,113,585 and US-5,454,164, which are incorporated herein by reference.

Inner clips

In Figs. 3, 3B, 3C and 3D, clips 32 are attached to respective faces of housing 20 and within side walls 34. Each clip 32 passes through a pair of slots 40 and 42 (Fig. 4 ) located between the front edge 44 and the rear edge 46 of the blade unit 16 (see also Fig. 4). Preferably clips 32 are made of 5052-H16 aluminum and are about 0.3mm thick. As will be described in more detail below, by positioning the hooks 32 internally with respect to the front and rear edges 44, 46 of the blade unit 16, the hooks interfere to a lesser extent with certain shaving characteristics of the blade. razor 10. Additionally, by inserting hooks 32 through slots 40 and 42 in housing 20 and bending legs 50 and 52 to a desired curvature, it is possible to very securely mount hooks 32 to housing 20.

Referring in this case to Fig. 5, as described above, hooks 32 retain blades 28 within housing 20. Hooks 32 also dispose cutting edges 408 of spring-biased blades 28 on the desired degree of exposure in rest position. Legs 50 and 52 of hooks 32 insert through slots 40 and 42, respectively, and wrap around the bottom of housing 20.

As can be seen in Fig. 5, the distance D1 whose leg 50 is inserted through the housing 20 is greater than the distance D2 whose leg 52 is inserted through the housing. This is, in part, because the trimmer blade unit 30 is located at the rear of the housing 20 and is also attached to the housing 20 by hooks 32. Referring here to FIG. 6, legs 50 and 52 include relatively straight portions 54, 56 that extend through housing 20 and multiple curves 58, 60, 62, 64 that form relatively bent portions 66, 68 (eg, by the bending of the metal hooks on the surfaces 61, 63, 65, 67 and beyond their elastic limit). Curves 58, 60, 62, and 64 convey a desired curvature to legs 50 and 52 of hooks 32, which generally corresponds to the shape of housing 20. The discontinuous nature of the curvature of legs 50 and 52 tends to prevent straightening of legs 20. As shown, fi (measured from vertical 53) is between about 91 and 93 degrees, p. For example, approximately 92.2 degrees, I2 (measured from horizontal 55) is between approximately 42 and 44 degrees, e.g. g., approximately 43 degrees, I3 (measured from vertical 57) is between

ES 2 365 348 T3 about 91 and 94 degrees, p. eg, approximately 92.4 degrees and I4 (measured from horizontal 59) is between approximately 19 and 22 degrees, e.g. g., approximately 20.4 degrees. Herein, the curvature of a leg is defined as the sum of the angles I of the individual bends. Because the sum of I₁ and I₂ is greater than the sum of I3 and I4, leg 50 has a greater curvature than leg 52. However, both legs 50 and 52 have a curvature greater than 90 degrees. As shown, leg 50 has a curvature (i.e., I1 plus I2) of about 135 degrees (preferably between about 91 and 150 degrees) and leg 52 has a curvature (i.e., I3 plus I4) of about 113 degrees. (preferably between about 91 and 130 degrees). The straight portions 54, 56 and the end portions 71 and 73 of the legs 50, 52 form projected angles θ. In the embodiment shown, a smaller θ is preferable, such as one less than about 80 degrees. As shown, Θ1 is approximately 47 degrees and θ2 is approximately 70 degrees. It is also possible to additionally bend the legs 50, 52 to preload the hooks 32 against the casing, obtaining a better fixation thereto. For example, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 5, curve 60 applies a slight load on housing 20, at the point 73 of contact between curve 60 and the housing.

Clips 32 that insert through the housing and legs 50 and 52 that bend can provide several benefits. For example, it is possible to provide a wider blade unit 16 without a substantial increase in the length of clips 32, since clips 32 are positioned internally with respect to the front and rear edges 44, 46 of the unit. leaf. This is different, p. eg to US Patent 6,035,537, which uses metal clips that wrap around the periphery of the housing and the front and rear faces of the blade unit. In addition, the straight portions 54 and 56 of the legs 50 and 52 are relatively enclosed within the slots 40 and 42 of the housing 20 and are bent over the housing by relatively sharp bends (i.e., bends having a radius of curvature relatively short). This curve geometry can provide a very secure attachment of hooks 32 to housing 20, making it difficult to remove hooks 32 from slots 40 and 42 without breaking the hook. Additionally, the fact of shaping the clips 32 in metal and bending the metal at an angle makes it relatively difficult to straighten the clips sufficiently to extract the bent portions 66, 68 through the slots 40,

42. In another example, an interior clip arrangement facilitates the use of a longer and wider guard, as described in more detail below.

Main sheets

In Figs. 7-12, it can be seen that each elongated sheet 28 is supported on a respective elongated folded support 400 having an elongated bottom base portion 402, an elongated folded portion 404, and an elongated platform portion 406 that supports the sheet 28. Sheet width is defined as the distance from the edge of the sheet to the skin-contacting element immediately in front of said edge, measured along a tangential line extending between the element and the edge of the sheet. The cutting edges 406 of each sheet are separated from the cutting edges 408 of the adjacent sheets by the width distance between sheets s2 = S3 = S4 = S5; the width between sheets is between 0.95mm and 1.15mm, preferably between 1.0mm and 1.1mm, and most preferably about 1.05mm. The degree of sheet exposure is defined as the perpendicular distance or height of the sheet edge measured with respect to a tangential plane to the skin-contacting surfaces of the following sheet unit elements in front of the edge and behind the same. Because all the cutting edges bear on the hooks 32 when at rest, they are located in a common plane, so that the degrees of exposure of the three intermediate sheets are equal to zero. The front sheet 28 has a negative exposure rating of -0.04 mm and the last sheet 28 has a positive exposure rating. The lower degree of exposure of the first sheet and the higher degree of exposure of the last sheet allow to obtain a better shaving efficiency, as described in US Pat. No. 6,212,777. The width S1 from the front guide 409 to the cutting edge of the front sheet 28 is 0.65 mm, and the distance SC from the cutting edge of the last sheet 28 to the tangent point of the lubricating strip 26 of the plug 24 is 3.16mm.

The greater number of blades tends to desirably distribute the compressive forces of the blades on the skin, although the area occupied by the blades will increase if the distances do not change, with potential maneuverability and trimming difficulties. Reducing the amplitudes for a greater number of blades desirably tends to reduce the total area occupied by the blades and to reduce the bulging volume of skin located between the cutting edges, resulting in a potential improvement in comfort. However, reducing the amplitude may reduce the rinsing and cleaning ability of shaving residue from the blade area. On a 5-blade razor, a lower end of the 0.95mm width range provides good comfort, but a potential increase in problems associated with cleaning up shaving debris, and a higher end of the width range width of 1.15 mm allows to obtain a good cleaning of shaving residues, although a potential increase of the salient volume of skin and less comfort, so that the values ​​of width within the range and specifically, the values ​​closer to a more preferred width of 1.05 mm, allow a good balance to be obtained between a reduced size and good comfort, while maintaining a sufficient rinse capacity to avoid problems with shaving residues. The distance ST from the first cutting edge 408 to the last cutting edge 408 is four times the width between sheets and is therefore between

IS 2 365 348 T3

3.8 mm and 4.6 mm, preferably between 4.0 mm and 4.4 mm, and most preferably about 4.2 mm, that is, between 4.1 mm and 4.3 mm.

In Figs. 8-12, sheet 28 is connected to platform portion 406 by thirteen laser-applied weld spots 410, which melts metal on sheet 28 in weld area WA to create molten metal, which forms weld 410 to platform portion 406 as it cools. The weld area WA is a joint area where the sheet is attached to the deck part. The weld area WA is located on a flat part FP of the platform portion 406. The length LB of the blade from the cutting edge 408 to the blade end 450 is less than 1mm, preferably less than 0.9mm, and most preferably about 0.85mm. Sheet 28 has a portion 412 of uniform thickness that is supported on platform portion 406 and a tapered portion 412 that extends beyond front end 452 of platform portion 406.

The elongated bent metal bracket 400 is made of a metal having a thickness between 0.102 mm and 0.229 mm (0.004 in. And 0.009 in.) N (dimension T), preferably a metal having a thickness between 0.127 mm and 0.178 mm (0.005 in. and 0.007 in.), and most preferably from a metal having a thickness of about 0.152 mm (0.006 in.). Platform portion 406 has a length LP from its front end 452 to folded portion 404 that is less than 0.7mm, preferably less than 0.6mm, and most preferably about 0.55mm. The bent portion 404 has an inner bend radius R that is less than 0.1 mm, preferably less than 0.09 mm, and most preferably less than 0.08 mm. The angle a between the base portion 402 and the platform portion 406 is between 108 degrees and 115 degrees, preferably between 110 degrees and 113 degrees, most preferably about 111.5 degrees.

Because the bent support 400 is cut and shaped from a thinner metal, it allows a smaller radius R of curvature to be obtained, thus allowing a greater percentage of the platform portion to be flat. Using the thinner material for the backing also facilitates the ability to obtain a higher percentage of flat area from the deck after forming. A flat area with a minimum size is necessary to accurately and reliably support the sheet 28, which has a reduced length in its portion 412 of uniform thickness, due to its shorter length. It is possible to use the shorter uniform thickness portion 412 and still maintain precise and necessary sheet support, as the extent of the curved areas of the deck portion 406 outside of the flat area FA has been reduced. Such precise blade support is necessary to obtain the desired blade geometry to achieve the desired shaving efficiency.

Trimmer unit

In Fig. 13, the trimmer blade unit 30 is attached to the rear of the housing 20 and includes a blade holder 502 and a trimmer blade 504 mounted thereon. The blade vehicle 502 is made of 0.279mm (0.011 ") thick stainless steel sheet metal that has been cut and shaped to provide structures to support the trimmer blade 504 and which defines a trim guard and cap surfaces for the blade. itself and to be attached to the housing 20.

In Figs. 13-19, the blade holder 502 has a rear wall 508, 510, upper tabs 508, 510 bent to extend forward at the two ends from the top of the rear wall 506, a lower wall 512 bent to extend toward front along the length of the rear wall 506, at the bottom of the rear wall 506, and two side portions 514, 516, each being formed by a side tab 518 bent to extend forward from a respective face at one end of rear wall 506 and by a vertical tab 520 bent to extend upward from a respective end of bottom wall 512.

The center portion of the rear wall 506 is open at the bottom, forming a space 522 that is located between the lower end surface 526 of the rear wall 506 and the cutout shield 528 that extends upwardly from the bottom wall 512. Two alignment surfaces 530 are positioned at a precise distance from the bottom of the end surface 526, at the two ends of the end surface 526. The trimmer blade 504 is welded to the inner surface 532 of the rear wall 506 by thirteen weld spots 534, the cutting edge 536 of the trimmer blade 504 being aligned with the alignment surfaces 530. All edges around the gap 524, which will come into contact with the user's skin, are rounded to obtain a radius of curvature of 0.2 mm, so that the user will not notice the edges.

In Figs. 13, 15-20, the space 522 exposes the cutting edge 536 of the trimmer blade 504. As can be seen more clearly in Fig. 19, the rear wall 506 and its bottom end surface 526 form an upper part 535 of trim for trimmer blade 504 and its cutting edge 536 and define the degree of

ES 2 365 348 T3 exposition of the trimmer blade 504. In Figs. 13 and 20, two skin guard projections 537 partially spaced from the two ends extend into the space behind a tangent line running from the cutting edge 536 to the cutting guard 528 to limit the amount of skin projection volume. of the user in the space between the cutting edge 536 and the cutting guard 528.

In Figs. 14 and 16, upper side tabs 508 and 510 have upper slots 538 and bottom wall 512 has aligned slots 540 to accommodate hooks 32 used to secure trimmer blade unit 30 to housing 20. In Figs. 13 and 16, bottom wall 512 also has cavities 542 that mate with projections 544 on housing 20 to facilitate alignment and retention of unit 30 in a suitable position in housing 20.

In Figs. 13, 16, 18, 19, 21, 22, the bottom wall also has four debris removal slots 546 which are aligned with four recessed debris removal passages 548 of the housing 20 to allow removal of shaving debris from the region behind and below the cutting edge 536 during shaving.

During manufacture, blade holder 506 is cut and formed from rolled metal. The trimmer blade 504 is then positioned against the inner surface 532, with the cutting edge 536 aligned with the alignment surfaces 530 by an automated positioning element, and then attached to the inner surface 532 by spot welds 534, with the cutting edge 536 positioned at a precise position relative to the cutting guard 528 and the cutting plug 534. The trimmer unit 30 is then positioned at the rear of the housing 20, sliding forward over the rear of the housing 20, with the cavities 542 of the bottom wall 512 aligned with the projections 544 of the housing 20. Al At the same time, upper pressure stops 552 and lower pressure stops 554 of the housing 20 (Fig. 18) are deformed by the compression applied between the upper tabs 508, 510 and the bottom wall 512 when the unit 30 is moved forward over the rear of the housing 20. Then, the unit 30 is fixed to the housing 20 by means of the hooks 32, which pass through upper slots 538 and lower slots 540 of blade holder 506 and aligned slots 40, 42 through housing 20 (Fig. 4).

Because hooks 32 pass through slots 538, hooks 32 are in electrical contact with blade holder 506. Therefore, the hooks are also in electrical contact with the trimmer blade 504, since the hooks, the blade holder, and the trimmer blade are all formed of metal (typically the trimmer blade and the blade holder are formed made of stainless steel and the hooks are made of aluminum or aluminum alloy). Hooks 32 are also in electrical contact with each of blades 28. Thus, the hooks form an anode-cathode cell with the blades and the trimmer blade, in which the hooks function as the sacrificial anode. Consequently, if the razor is exposed to corrosive conditions, the hooks will corrode and the razor blades and trimmer blade will function as a cathode that is protected from corrosion. This sacrificial function of the hooks is advantageous, as corrosion of the cutting edges of the blades could pose a safety risk to the user, while corrosion of the hooks will be aesthetically unattractive and very likely to cause damage. the user discards the cartridge before it can deteriorate further.

Protection

Referring again to FIG. 3, shield 22 includes a flexible elastomeric member 100 that extends into and over side surfaces 34. The elastomeric element 100 forms a protrusion 101 that is capable of engaging a dispenser (not shown) to secure the cartridge thereto (eg, for storage and / or transportation). Details of overhang 101 and dispenser can be found in co-pending PCT application WO 2005/090020 entitled "Dispensers for Razor Blade Cartridges" and applied for on the same date as this application. The elastomeric element 100 includes a plurality of fins 114, described in detail below, which tend to stimulate and stretch the skin in front of the blades 28, suitably lifting and positioning the hairs of the user for shaving.

The elastomeric element 100 is supported along a rear portion 102 and side portions 104 by the housing 20. Referring in this case to Fig. 23, a front or anterior portion 106 of the elastomeric element 100 extends beyond a front portion 108 of housing 20 and is not substantially supported by housing 20 along its length. The front 106 of the elastomeric element is relatively flexible and can flex upon contact with the wearer's skin. In some cases, the anterior portion 106 is flexible enough to conform to the contour of the wearer's skin during use. This adaptation to the wearer's skin will tend to increase the surface area of ​​the elastomeric element that contacts the wearer's skin, improving the stretching of the skin, and will also tend to more evenly distribute the force applied by the wearer during shaving. The deflection of the anterior part when contacting the skin also tends to cause the fins 114

ES 2 365 348 T3 are deflected towards each other, increasing the frictional force between the fin tips and the skin and thus increasing the stretch of the skin. To further improve the flexibility of the elastomeric element 100, the thickness of the elastomeric element 100 varies along its length. As can be seen in Figs. 24 and 25, a leading edge 110 of the leading part 106 of the elastomeric element 100 has a first thickness t-ι in the area adjacent to the side surfaces 34 of the shell and tapers to a lower second thickness t2 in the area adjacent to a central region of elastomeric element 100.

Referring again to Fig. 3, and also Fig. 3D, elastomeric element 100 includes a group 112 of resilient fins 114 positioned within frame 115. Frame 115 forms a continuous elastomeric surface around the periphery of the ribs. fins, which allows to improve the tracking of the cartridge during shaving and allows to improve the stretching of the skin and the tactile properties provided by the elastomeric element. Referring also to FIG. 3A, a slot 116 is disposed between a recessed wall 118 of the frame 115 and the ends 120 of the fins 114. This slot 116 allows the fins to bend, for example, to close together when the front part 106 is deflected, instead of being fixed at its ends, as would happen if the fins were attached to frame 115 at its ends. However, if desired, the fins may be attached to the frame, or the frame 115 may not be provided and the fins may extend the entire length of the shield.

In the embodiment shown, group 112 includes 15 fins. Generally, the elastomeric element can include more or fewer fins (eg, between about 10 and 20 fins). With a given fin geometry and spacing, more fins will generally allow for a greater stretch of the skin for a closer shave; however, above a certain number of fins, skin stretch tends not to increase (or increased skin stretch is not necessary) and the elastomeric element may be too wide, making it difficult for the user to shave in narrow areas .

Referring again to Fig. 23, the tips 120 of the elastomeric fins 114 increase in elevation from the fin furthest from the blades 28 toward the fin closest to the blades 28, along a curve. Some of the tips 120 are disposed below a plane 122 that passes through the cutting edges 48 of the blades 28 and some of the tips 120 are disposed on the plane 122. Increasing elevation of fins 114 tends to gradually increase skin contact. Increasing lift also causes the tips to conform to the skin while shaving. The fins 114 have a height "h" from tip to base of 0.4mm to 0.9mm and a narrow profile, that is, the fins define an angle included θ or less than about 14 degrees (preferably, between about 14 and 8 degrees, such as about 11 degrees). The fins 114 are separated by a distance between about 0.14mm and 0.57mm center to center, e.g. 0.284 mm, and have a thickness at their bases between about 0.1 mm and 0.4 mm, e.g. eg 0.217 mm. The distance from the front of the first fin 114a to the rear of the last fin 114b at the base is approximately 4mm. Alternatively, this distance can be between about 2.5mm and 6mm. The narrow profile θ of the fin, e.g. For example, from 8 to 14 degrees, it improves flexibility, facilitating the stretching of the skin and thus preparing the hairs for a better cut.

Referring in this case to Fig. 26, elastomeric member 100, as it extends into and over side surfaces 34, has a length Le, measured between side surfaces 34 (preferably between about 34mm and about 47mm, such as about 42.5mm) that is longer than the sheet length Lb (preferably between about 33mm and about 46mm, such as about 34.4mm) of each of the sheets 28, Lb being measured between the inner edges 124 and 126 of the hooks. The length of the elastomeric element allows to obtain a good stretch of the skin and improves the tactile properties of the razor. It can be, for example, between about zero and 36 percent longer Lb, such as 23.5 percent. The fins 114 have a fin length Lf, measured along a fin axis 128 substantially parallel to a blade axis 130. As can be seen, the fin lengths Lf increase from the fin located farthest from the blades 28 towards the fin located closest to the blades 28. Lf of at least several (or all) of the fins 120 is greater than Lb. This increased length arrangement, in conjunction with frame 116, allows for improved maneuverability along the contour of the skin.

The material for forming the elastomeric element 100 can be selected as desired. Preferably, the elastomeric element is formed of an elastomeric material, such as block copolymers (or other suitable materials), e.g. eg, with a durometer value between 28 and 60 Shore A. Preferably, the fins 114 are also made of a relatively soft material, e.g. eg, with a Shore A hardness between about 28 and 60 (eg, between about 40 and 50, such as between about 40 and 45 Shore A). When values ​​increase above this range, performance may tend to deteriorate, and when values ​​decrease below this range, production problems may occur. As shown, the fins and the elastomeric element are integrally formed from the same material. In other cases, the fins and the elastomeric element are formed of different materials. The method of fixing the elastomeric element

IS 2 365 348 T3

100 to the housing 20 can also be selected as desired. For example, suitable methods include adhesives, welding, and molding (eg, overmolding or two-cycle molding) of the elastomeric element in the housing 20.

Pivoting Frame / Cartridge Balance

In Figs. 1 and 2, the blade unit 16 is pivotally mounted on the connecting element 18. The connection element 18 is configured to receive by a removable socket a handle connection structure 11 located in the handle 14, as will be described in detail below in the section "Cartridge / Handle Connection". The h unit 16 can pivot about a pivot axis 70 with respect to the handle 14 and the connecting element 18 thanks to the cooperating pivot structures formed by the housing 20 and the connecting element 18.

In Figs. 36-38, connecting element 18 has a body 140 and a pair of arms 142 and 144 that extend outwardly from body 140. Fingers 150 and 152 extend from U-shaped ends 146 and 148 of the arms 142 and 144. Fingers 150 and 152 are pivotally connected to blade unit 16, e.g. For example, by inserting it into openings located at the rear of the casing 20 (Fig. 3B), and allow the blade unit 16 to pivot about the axis 70 (Fig. 23) with respect to the connecting element 18. In the detail view of Fig. 37A, showing a side view of finger 150, each of fingers 150 and 152 includes projecting distal ends 151 and 153 defining end points A, B, C, D of two coaxial circular arches 155 and 157 that form connection support surfaces of the connection element 18 and the housing 20. These arc surfaces engage (with clearance) complementary arc-shaped receivers (not shown) located in cartridge housing 20 and allow pivoting. The smaller arc 155 is under load when the blade unit 16 is pivoted. The major arc 157 is under load when the blades 28 are cutting during shaving.

Referring also to Fig. 40, each finger includes abutment surfaces 154 and 156 (Fig. 38). The abutment surfaces 154 and 156 may engage cooperating abutment surfaces 158 and 160 (FIG. 40) of the blade unit 16 to limit rotation of the blade unit. As shown in Fig. 40, abutment surfaces 154, 156, 158, and 160 prevent normal rotation of blade unit 16 beyond an angle K of approximately 41 degrees, with the rest position being spring biased from zero degrees. Surfaces 156 and 160 also form a stopper to prevent twisting during a trimming operation when using trimmer blade 504.

In Fig. 37, end surfaces 146 and 148 serve as load bearing structures in the event of excessive rotation of blade unit 16 relative to connecting element 18. Such excessive twisting can occur, e.g. eg if the user drops the razor. As shown in Fig. 40, the housing 20 can come into contact with the end surfaces 146 and 148 if the blade unit rotates with an angle □ that is greater than K (eg. (eg, greater than 41 degrees, between about 42 degrees and 45 degrees, such as about 43 degrees). By arranging these load bearing structures, it is possible to transmit the load to the end surfaces 146, 148 and the arms 142,144, thereby decreasing the stress on the fingers 150, 152 (eg, to prevent breakage fingers).

Referring again to Fig. 1, the blade unit 16 is biased toward a vertical rest position (shown in Fig. 1) by a spring biased plunger 134. A rounded distal end 139 of plunger 134 contacts the cartridge housing on a cam surface 216 (FIG. 47), at a position spaced from pivot axis 70, to transmit a biasing force to housing 20. Arranging the plunger / housing contact point separate from the pivot axis 70 provides a lever force so that the spring biased plunger can return the blade unit 16 to its vertical rest position upon load removal. This leverage force also allows the blade unit 16 to pivot freely between its upright and fully loaded positions in response to a change in user applied load.

Referring in this case to Figs. 47A and 47B, when the blade unit 16 rotates relative to the handle, the point of contact between the plunger 134 and the cam surface 216 changes. The horizontal distance d1 and the direct distance h are each at at least one point X when the blade unit 16 is in the spring-deflected rest position, d1 being measured along a horizontal line that is perpendicular to the axis. 70 pivot and parallel to plane 122. The horizontal distance d₂, also measured along a horizontal line that is perpendicular to pivot axis 70 and parallel to plane 122, and the direct distance l2 are each at most at contact point Y when blade unit 16 is in the fully rotated position. In the embodiment shown, 1 is about 0.9mm, fi is about 3mm, d₂ is about 3.5mm and l₂ it is about 5mm. Alternatively, d₁ could be

ES 2 365 348 T3 between about 0.8mm and 1.0mm, 1 can be between about 2.5mm and 3.5mm, d2 can be between about 3mm and 4mm, and l₂ it can be between about 4.5mm and 5.5mm.

When the blade unit 16 rotates from its rest position, the torque around the pivot axis due to the force applied by the plunger 134 increases, thanks at least partially to the increase in the horizontal distance between the contact point and the axis 70 pivoting and rotating plunger 134 to a more perpendicular orientation with respect to cam surface 216. In some embodiments, the minimum torque applied by the spring biased plunger, e.g. eg, in the rest position, it is at least about 1.5 N-mm, such as about 2 N-mm. In some cases, the maximum torque applied by the plunger, e.g. eg, in the fully rotated position, it is about 6 N-mm or less, such as about 3.5 N-mm.

Referring now to Fig. 23, connecting element 18 and housing 20 are connected such that pivot axis 70 is located below plane 122 (eg, at a position within housing 20) and versus blades 28. The position of pivot axis 70 versus blades 28 is occasionally referred to as a "front pivot" arrangement.

The position of the pivot axis 70 along the width W of the blade unit 16 determines how the cartridge will pivot about the pivot axis and how the pressure applied by the user during shaving will be transmitted to the user's skin and distributed. on the surface area of ​​the shaver cartridge. For example, if the pivot axis is positioned behind the blades and relatively close to the front edge of the housing, so that the pivot axis is significantly offset from the center of the housing width, the blade unit may tend to present a "back swing" when the user applies pressure to the skin through the handle. "Backward oscillation" refers to the tendency of the wider blade support portion of the blade unit to oscillate away from the skin as more pressure is applied by the user. Generally, positioning the pivot point in this manner results in a more secure shave, although it may tend to make it difficult for the user to adjust the shave closeness by varying the applied pressure.

In the blade unit 16, the distance between the pivot axis and the front edge of the blade unit is large enough to balance the cartridge around the pivot axis. By balancing the cartridge in this manner, rearward pivoting is minimized and the safety advantages of a front pivoting arrangement are still obtained. Safety is maintained because the additional pressure applied by the user will be relatively evenly distributed between the blades and the elastomeric element, rather than being transmitted primarily to the blades, as would be the case in a central pivoting arrangement (a blade unit having a pivot axis located between the blades). Preferably, the distance from the front of the blade unit to the pivot axis is close enough to the distance from the rear of the blade unit to the pivot axis, so that the pressure applied to the skin through the blade unit 16 is relatively evenly distributed during use. It is possible to predict the pressure distribution during shaving using computer modeling.

In Fig. 23, the projected distance Wf is relatively close to the projected distance Wr. Preferably, Wf is within 45 percent of Wr, such as within 35 percent. In some cases, Wr is substantially equal to Wf. Preferably, Wf is at least about 3.5mm, more preferably between 5.5mm and 6.5mm, such as about 6mm. Generally, W_r it is less than about 11mm (eg, between about 11mm and 9.5mm, such as about 10mm).

A measure of cartridge balance is the ratio of the projected distance Wr between the rear of the blade unit 16 and the pivot axis 70 and the projected distance W between the front and rear of the blade unit 16, each measuring distance projected along a line parallel to a carcass axis 217 (FIG. 3) that is perpendicular to pivot axis 70. The ratio can also be expressed as a percentage called "front load percentage".

Referring in this case to Fig. 27, the blade unit 16 is shown abutting against the skin 132. The blade unit 16 supports a weight by applying a normal force F perpendicular to the pivot axis 70 (i.e., applied through the handle 14 by a user, neglecting other forces, such as those applied by the spring-biased plunger 134 shown in Fig. 39). Preferably, the percent load (or percent front load) along Wf is at most 70 percent (eg, between about 50 percent and about 70 percent, such as about 63 percent) of a total load supported by blade unit 16.

IS 2 365 348 T3

By balancing the cartridge, the load borne by the front 136 along Wf and the rear 138 along Wr is distributed more evenly during use, which corresponds to a more uniform distribution of applied pressure. on the shaving surface while shaving. In addition, more weight is loaded onto the rear 138 of the cartridge 12, where the blades 28 are located during use, preventing rearward pivoting of the rear portion 138, allowing for a closer shave.

Cartridge / handle connection

As described above, referring to Figs. 1 and 2, the connection element 18 removably connects the blade unit 16 to a handle connection structure 11 located on the handle 14.

In Figs. 2, 2A and 41 (plunger, button and spring not shown in Fig. 41 for clarity), to connect connecting element 18 and handle 14, the user pushes the handle connection structure 11 inserting it into the rear end of the connection element 18. The handle connection structure includes a body 167 from which a protrusion 166 protrudes. The protrusion 166 is positioned to be received in an opening 178 of the connecting element 18. When projection 166 is inserted into the opening, connecting element latches 162 and 164 are elastically biased to accommodate distal end 180 of projection 166. When latches 162 and 164 pass edges 188 and 190 of projection distal end 180 166, latches 162 and 164 return to their undeviated initial position while engaging side surfaces 182 and 184 of the boss (Fig. 39).

In Fig. 41A, to disconnect the cartridge 12 from the handle 14, the user actuates a spring release button 196 by pressing the button 196 forward relative to the handle housing 170. Pressing button 196 extends pusher arms 192 and 194 forward to engage latches 162 and 164 on connecting element 18. These engagement forces open the interfering fit between latches 162, 164 and projection 166 to release cartridge 12 from handle 14, as will be described in more detail below.

Referring now to Fig. 39, which shows the cartridge 12 and handle 14 connected, the hooks 162 and 164 of the connecting element 18 have respective free distal ends 174, 176 that engage the angled side surfaces 182 and 184. of shoulder 166. Side surfaces 182 and 184 taper from the relatively large distal end 180 toward a relatively smaller base 186, which forms a projected apex angle λ (p. g., between about 45 and 60 degrees, such as about 52 degrees). The narrowing of the side surfaces 182 and 184 prevents unintended removal of the cartridge 12 from the handle 14 (eg, by a force applied to the rear of the blade unit 16 during a trimming operation). Engagement of flat side surfaces 182 and 184 with the flat edges of distal ends 174, 176 of latches 162 and 164 also prevents rotational movement of connection member 18 relative to handle connection structure 11.

In Figs. 36-38, connecting element 18 includes a body 140 from which latches 162 and 164 extend. Body 140 is contoured with an arcuate profile to correspond to body 167, which has a correspondingly arched profile (Fig. 29). The contours of body 140 and body 167 are also shaped asymmetrically, viewed from the front, to facilitate the user to connect cartridge 12 to handle 14 in the correct orientation. For example, in FIG. 36, body 140 may be generally D-shaped, viewed from the front, and body 167 may have a corresponding D-shape. These corresponding arcuate and asymmetrical contours also prevent relative rotation of the connection element 18 and the handle connection structure 11.

Latches 162 and 164 extend generally along the contour of a wall 172 of body 140 and integrally therefrom to opposing free distal ends 174 and 176. Each distal end 174 and 176 forms a part of an opening 178 that extends through wall 172 to accommodate boss 166. Referring also to Fig. 29, opening 178 is smaller than distal end 180 of boss 166. Therefore, the width Wp of the distal end of the protrusion is preferably between about 4mm and 7mm, such as about 5.6mm, while the width W_or between the free distal ends 174 and 176 of latches 162 and 164 is preferably between about 3mm and 6mm, such as about 4.8mm.

Referring now to Figs. 29, 30 and 39, two slots 177 and 179 extend through body 167, on opposite faces of boss 166. A third slot 181 extends through body 167 and to a distal end 180 of boss 166. Slots 177 and 179 house respective pusher arms 192 and 194 extending from release button 196 and slot 181 houses plunger 134 (Fig. 39). In Figs. 29 and 30, a pair of latch arms (171 and 173) extend from the rear of the body 167, helping to secure the body 167

ES 2 365 348 T3 to the handle housing 170, and a guide member 169 helps guide the release button 196 when it is actuated.

Referring in this case to Figs. 31-33 and 39, pusher arms 192 and 194 are formed as an integral part of release button 196. The release button 196 further includes latch arms 204 and 206, a cylindrical extension 202 dimensioned to house a spring 205, and a button substrate 198 from which the pusher arms, latch arms, and the cylindrical extension extend. An elastomeric cover 200 extends around the periphery of the button substrate to occupy the distance between the button substrate and the surrounding handle housing that is necessary to allow sufficient clearance for the button to move relative to the handle. Each of the latch arms 204 and 206 includes a stop 208 that slidably engages a respective track 210 (Fig. 28) formed in the handle housing 170, allowing the button to slide back and forth. The pawls 208 also prevent removal of the release button 196 from the handle housing 170 by engaging a lip 211 (FIG. 39) formed by one end of a respective track 210. As will be described below, elastomeric cover 200 extends from button substrate 198 to handle housing 170 and conceals extension 202, spring 205, body 167, and plunger base 134 from the user.

Button 196 and plunger 134 (whose function has been described above in the "Pivoting Structure" section) are biased in opposite directions by spring 205. In Figs. 34 and 35, plunger 134 includes a cavity 139 formed in a plunger body 137 and which can accommodate spring 205, and base elements 135 that bear against internal surfaces 139, 141 within body 167 (Fig. 39 ) when the plunger 134 is in the extended position. Spring 205 biases the button away from the cartridge, returning the button to its normal position after being released by the user.

Referring again to Fig. 41A, when the user presses button 196 forward, pusher arms 192 and 194 are able to apply sufficient force on latches 162 and 164 to release interference fit between connecting element 18 and ledge 166. Once pusher arms 192 and 194 force ends 174 and 176 of latches 162 and 164 past edges 188 and 190 of boss 166, latches 162, 164 are biased back to their undeviated positions, thereby ejecting cartridge 12 from handle 14.

Referring here to FIG. 42, the release button 196 is shown in its home position. Cover 200 extends from button substrate 198 to surface 306 to conceal spring 205, pusher arms 192 and 194, and plunger base 134 from view of the user. Referring here to FIG. 43, when the release button 196 is actuated, the pusher arms 192 and 194 are pushed forward and the cover 200 flexes between the button substrate 198 and the surface 306. When the button 196 is released, the spring 205 forces the button 196 is returned to its initial position and cover 200 returns to its unfolded state.

Preferably, in Figs. 42 and 44, the contact angle Φ1 between the handle housing 170 and the cover 200 is at most about 110 degrees when the button is in its home position and the cover has fully recovered. This facilitates controlled folding of cover 200 when button 136 is actuated. Contact angles greater than 110 degrees can cause the cover 200 to slide over the surface of the handle housing 170 instead of bending. Due to the shape of the handle housing 170, the angle Φ varies along the periphery of the cover 200 from a maximum contact angle Φ1 (eg, approximately 110 degrees) at the center of the cover 200 (Fig. 42) to a minimum contact angle Φ2 (eg, approximately 50 degrees) on each face of the cover (Fig. 44).

Materials for forming the cover can be selected as desired. Suitable materials include, for example, elastomers such as thermoplastic elastomers, silicone, and latex. The thickness of the cover can be between about 0.3mm and 0.6mm, such as about 0.5mm.

Referring now to Figs. 28, 28A and 39, to mount the handle connection structure 11 to the handle 14, the body 167 is inserted into the handle portion 722 so that the latch arms (171 and 173) engage against a surface 306 ( see also Figs 42 and 43) in portion 722 of handle housing 170. Spring 205 is positioned over cylindrical extension 202 (FIG. 32), extending from release button 196. The spring 205 is also inserted into the cavity 139 of the plunger 134. The plunger-spring-button unit is inserted into the rear of the body 167, so that the plunger 134 is housed in the slot 181 and the pusher arms 192 and 194 are housed in slots 177 and 179, respectively (Fig. 39). The latch arms 204 and 206 of the release button 196 are disposed in the tracks 210 of the handle housing 170.

IS 2 365 348 T3

Materials for forming handle housing 70, body 167, connecting element 18, release button, and plunger 134 can be selected as desired. Preferably, the handle housing 170 is formed of metal, such as a zinc alloy. However, the handle housing can be formed of other materials, including plastics (eg. g., coated acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) and plastics with metal inserts, such as those described in US-5,822,869, which is incorporated by reference. Any method of shaping the handle shell can be used, including die casting, investment casting, and casting. Suitable materials for forming the cartridge housing, round extension, button, connecting element, and plunger include thermoplastics. For example, the handle interconnect element, which includes body 167 and boss 166 (Fig. 29), and plunger, can be formed of acetal, and button substrate 198, which includes pusher arms 204, 206 and the extension 202, can be formed of polypropylene. Suitable methods of shaping include molding, such as injection molding.

Straight handle

In Figs. 45 and 46, the handle 14 includes a single smooth curve 720 that is ultimately concave on the same face as the main blades 28. The handle 14 bifurcates into two parts 722, 724, providing an empty region between them to allow access to the finger pad 726 located on the concave face of curve 720. The smooth curve 720 on the same face as the main blades and the finger pad 726 and the access to the pad 726 provided by the bifurcated handle allows the user to place an aligned thumb or other finger directly under the trimmer blade 504, which It is located at the corner 728 shown in Fig. 45 when sideburns, whiskers or hair are trimmed on the skin of the user 730. The finger pad 726 is made of elastomeric material and has protrusions to provide a good fit. The inner surfaces 732, 734 of the portions 722, 724 protrude to allow access to the finger pad 726.

During use, the shaving user rotates the handle 14 180 degrees from the position in which it is normally gripped so that the thumb is positioned on the finger pad 726 (Figs. 45 and 46), at the face near the main shield 22, and brings the rear of the blade unit toward the area of ​​skin to be shaved, with the trimmer blade 504 aligned with the edge of the hairs to be trimmed, e.g. eg, in a desired position to obtain a lower edge of sideburns or an edge of a well-shaved mustache or beard, or under the nose of the shaver to shave hair in locations that would otherwise be difficult to shave. The blade unit 16 is located in its stopped position relative to the connecting element 18 and therefore does not pivot when the user presses the rear of the blade unit 16 and the cutting edge 536 against the skin and then He moves it sideways over the skin to trim hairs. Cut hairs and other shaving debris that are directed to the region behind the cutting edge 536 during trimming pass through debris removal passages 548 in housing 20 and aligned debris removal slots 546 in the bottom wall during trimming and the entire region and passages and slots for debris removal are easily cleaned during rinsing with water, eg. eg, between shaving or trimming passes. Clipped hairs and shaving debris can also pass through passages 549 behind passages 548 and over bottom wall 512.

The recessed position of the cutting edge 536 of the trimmer blade 504 relative to the rear wall 506 of the blade unit prevents cuts to the user's skin during handling of the cartridge 12 and the razor 10. Including a trimmer blade and trimmer blade in a common assembly that is attached to a housing of a razor blade unit facilitates exact positioning of the trimmer blade relative to the trimmer blade to provide a tangent angle. to the trimmer blade and an exact trimmer blade clearance.