COMB

Abstract

The improved comb is an item of hair dressing equipment. The improved comb is adapted for use with the hair of a client. The improved comb is a mechanical structure. The improved comb is a hand tool. The improved comb is used to detangle and align the hair of the client. The improved comb includes a first comb section, a second comb section, and a grip base. The first comb section and the second comb section attach to the grip base. The first comb section and the second comb section act as working elements of the tool of the improved comb. There are physical differences between the first comb section and the second comb section relevant to the hair dressing process.

Claims

1. An improved comb comprising a first comb section, a second comb section, and a grip base; wherein the first comb section and the second comb section attach to the grip base; wherein there are physical differences between the first comb section and the second comb section.

2. The improved comb according to claim 1 wherein the improved comb is a mechanical structure; wherein the improved comb is a hand tool; wherein the first comb section and the second comb section act as working elements of the tool of the improved comb.

3. The improved comb according to claim 2 wherein the grip base is a disk shaped structure; wherein the grip base forms the base of the comb structure of the first comb section; wherein the grip base further forms the base of the comb structure of the second comb section; wherein the grip base is sized such that the grip base bridges a reach between the first comb section and the second comb section; wherein the bridge formed by the grip base is a negative space that is used as the handle of the tool of the improved comb.

4. The improved comb according to claim 3 wherein the grip base further comprises first grip section, a second grip section, and a medial grip section; wherein the first grip section is a subsection of the single structure that forms the grip base; wherein the first grip section forms the base structure that forms the comb structure of the first comb section; wherein the plurality of teeth of the comb structure of the first comb section attach to the lateral face of the first grip section; wherein the second grip section is a subsection of the single structure that forms the grip base; wherein the second grip section forms the base structure that forms the comb structure of the first comb section; wherein the plurality of teeth of the comb structure of the first comb section attach to the lateral face of the second grip section; wherein the medial grip section forms a bridge that attaches the first grip section to the second grip section; wherein the medial grip section forms a hand hold used to control and manipulate the first comb section and the second comb section; wherein the medial grip section forms the reach that separates the first comb section and the second comb section.

5. The improved comb according to claim 4 wherein the first comb section forms a working element of the tool formed by the improved comb; wherein the second comb section forms a working element of the tool formed by the improved comb.

6. The improved comb according to claim 5 wherein the first comb section comprises a first end cap and a first plurality of comb teeth; wherein the first end cap is a guard that mounts on the end of the first plurality of comb teeth; wherein the second comb section comprises a second end cap and a second plurality of comb teeth; wherein the second end cap is a guard that mounts on the end of the second plurality of comb teeth.

7. The improved comb according to claim 6 wherein the first end cap attaches to the perimeter edge of the first grip section of the grip base; wherein the first end cap attaches to the first grip section such that the first plurality of comb teeth positioned between the first end cap and the medial grip section of the grip base; wherein the first end cap forms a barrier structure that protects the first plurality of comb teeth from impact damage; wherein the first end cap attaches to the first grip section such that the center axis of the first end cap is parallel to the center axis of each first individual tooth structure selected from the first plurality of comb teeth; wherein the first end cap projects away from the first grip section in the same direction as each first individual tooth structure selected from the first plurality of comb teeth; wherein the second end cap attaches to the perimeter edge of the second grip section of the grip base; wherein the second end cap attaches to the second grip section such that the second plurality of comb teeth positioned between the second end cap and the medial grip section of the grip base; wherein the second end cap forms a barrier structure that protects the second plurality of comb teeth from impact damage; wherein the second end cap attaches to the second grip section such that the center axis of the second end cap is parallel to the center axis of each second individual tooth structure selected from the second plurality of comb teeth; wherein the second end cap projects away from the second grip section in the same direction as each second individual tooth structure selected from the second plurality of comb teeth.

8. The improved comb according to claim 7 wherein the first plurality of comb teeth forms the plurality of teeth of the comb structure of the first comb section; wherein the first plurality of comb teeth comprises a collection of first individual tooth structures; wherein each selected first individual tooth structure attaches to the first grip section in the manner of a jib; wherein the second plurality of comb teeth forms the plurality of teeth of the comb structure of the second comb section; wherein the second plurality of comb teeth comprises a collection of second individual tooth structures; wherein each selected second individual tooth structure attaches to the second grip section in the manner of a jib; wherein any initial first individual tooth structure selected from the first plurality of comb teeth is identical to any subsequent first individual tooth structure selected from the first plurality of comb teeth.

9. The improved comb according to claim 8 wherein the first plurality of comb teeth further comprises a first plurality of diastema; wherein the first plurality of diastema comprises a collection of negative spaces that are interspersed between the first plurality of comb teeth; wherein the first plurality of diastema are distributed between the first plurality of comb teeth; wherein a diastema selected from the first plurality of diastema is positioned between any initial first individual tooth structure selected from the first plurality of comb teeth any subsequent first individual tooth structure selected from the first plurality of comb teeth that is adjacent to the initial selected first individual tooth structure; wherein the second plurality of comb teeth further comprises a second plurality of diastema; wherein any initial second individual tooth structure selected from the second plurality of comb teeth is identical to any subsequent second individual tooth structure selected from the second plurality of comb teeth; wherein the second plurality of diastema comprises a collection of negative spaces that are interspersed between the second plurality of comb teeth; wherein the second plurality of diastema are distributed between the second plurality of comb teeth; wherein a diastema selected from the second plurality of diastema is positioned between any initial second individual tooth structure selected from the second plurality of comb teeth any subsequent second individual tooth structure selected from the second plurality of comb teeth that is adjacent to the initial selected second individual tooth structure.

10. The improved comb according to claim 9 wherein each diastema selected from the first plurality of diastema is defined with a first diastema spacing span; wherein the first diastema spacing span is the span of the reach between the center axis of the selected first individual tooth structure and the subsequent selected first individual tooth structure that is adjacent to the initial selected first individual tooth structure; wherein the span of the length of the first diastema spacing span of each diastema selected from the first plurality of diastema is identical; wherein each diastema selected from the second plurality of diastema is defined with a second diastema spacing span; wherein the second diastema spacing span is the span of the reach between the center axis of the selected second individual tooth structure and the subsequent selected second individual tooth structure that is adjacent to the initial selected second individual tooth structure; wherein the span of the length of the second diastema spacing span of each diastema selected from the second plurality of diastema is identical.

11. The improved comb according to claim 10 wherein the span of the length of the second diastema spacing span is different from and not equal to the span of the length of the first diastema spacing span; wherein the difference between the span of the lengths of the second diastema spacing span and the first diastema spacing span forms a primary difference between the first comb section and the second comb section.

12. The improved comb according to claim 11 wherein the first grip section acts as a first guard; wherein the second grip section acts as a second guard, wherein the first guard and the second guard are of different sizes.

13. An improved comb comprising a first comb section, a second comb section, and a grip base; wherein the first comb section and the second comb section attach to the grip base; wherein there are physical differences between the first comb section and the second comb section; wherein the first grip section acts as a first guard; wherein the second grip section acts as a second guard. wherein the first guard and the second guard are of different sizes.

14. The improved comb according to claim 13 wherein the improved comb is a mechanical structure; wherein the improved comb is a hand tool; wherein the first comb section and the second comb section act as working elements of the tool of the improved comb.

15. The improved comb according to claim 14 wherein the grip base is a disk shaped structure; wherein the grip base forms the base of the comb structure of the first comb section; wherein the grip base further forms the base of the comb structure of the second comb section; wherein the grip base is sized such that the grip base bridges a reach between the first comb section and the second comb section; wherein the bridge formed by the grip base is a negative space that is used as the handle of the tool of the improved comb.

16. The improved comb according to claim 15 wherein the grip base further comprises first grip section, a second grip section, and a medial grip section; wherein the first grip section is a subsection of the single structure that forms the grip base; wherein the first grip section forms the base structure that forms the comb structure of the first comb section; wherein the plurality of teeth of the comb structure of the first comb section attach to the lateral face of the first grip section; wherein the second grip section is a subsection of the single structure that forms the grip base; wherein the second grip section forms the base structure that forms the comb structure of the first comb section; wherein the plurality of teeth of the comb structure of the first comb section attach to the lateral face of the second grip section; wherein the medial grip section forms a bridge that attaches the first grip section to the second grip section; wherein the medial grip section forms a hand hold used to control and manipulate the first comb section and the second comb section; wherein the medial grip section forms the reach that separates the first comb section and the second comb section; wherein the first comb section forms a working element of the tool formed by the improved comb; wherein the second comb section forms a working element of the tool formed by the improved comb; wherein the first comb section comprises a first end cap and a first plurality of comb teeth; wherein the first end cap is a guard that mounts on the end of the first plurality of comb teeth; wherein the second comb section comprises a second end cap and a second plurality of comb teeth; wherein the second end cap is a guard that mounts on the end of the second plurality of comb teeth.

17. The improved comb according to claim 16 wherein the first end cap attaches to the perimeter edge of the first grip section of the grip base; wherein the first end cap attaches to the first grip section such that the first plurality of comb teeth positioned between the first end cap and the medial grip section of the grip base; wherein the first end cap forms a barrier structure that protects the first plurality of comb teeth from impact damage; wherein the first end cap attaches to the first grip section such that the center axis of the first end cap is parallel to the center axis of each first individual tooth structure selected from the first plurality of comb teeth; wherein the first end cap projects away from the first grip section in the same direction as each first individual tooth structure selected from the first plurality of comb teeth; wherein the second end cap attaches to the perimeter edge of the second grip section of the grip base; wherein the second end cap attaches to the second grip section such that the second plurality of comb teeth positioned between the second end cap and the medial grip section of the grip base; wherein the second end cap forms a barrier structure that protects the second plurality of comb teeth from impact damage; wherein the second end cap attaches to the second grip section such that the center axis of the second end cap is parallel to the center axis of each second individual tooth structure selected from the second plurality of comb teeth; wherein the second end cap projects away from the second grip section in the same direction as each second individual tooth structure selected from the second plurality of comb teeth.

18. The improved comb according to claim 17 wherein the first plurality of comb teeth forms the plurality of teeth of the comb structure of the first comb section; wherein the first plurality of comb teeth comprises a collection of first individual tooth structures; wherein each selected first individual tooth structure attaches to the first grip section in the manner of a jib; wherein the second plurality of comb teeth forms the plurality of teeth of the comb structure of the second comb section; wherein the second plurality of comb teeth comprises a collection of second individual tooth structures; wherein each selected second individual tooth structure attaches to the second grip section in the manner of a jib; wherein any initial first individual tooth structure selected from the first plurality of comb teeth is identical to any subsequent first individual tooth structure selected from the first plurality of comb teeth.

19. The improved comb according to claim 18 wherein the first plurality of comb teeth further comprises a first plurality of diastema; wherein the first plurality of diastema comprises a collection of negative spaces that are interspersed between the first plurality of comb teeth; wherein the first plurality of diastema are distributed between the first plurality of comb teeth; wherein a diastema selected from the first plurality of diastema is positioned between any initial first individual tooth structure selected from the first plurality of comb teeth any subsequent first individual tooth structure selected from the first plurality of comb teeth that is adjacent to the initial selected first individual tooth structure; wherein the second plurality of comb teeth further comprises a second plurality of diastema; wherein any initial second individual tooth structure selected from the second plurality of comb teeth is identical to any subsequent second individual tooth structure selected from the second plurality of comb teeth; wherein the second plurality of diastema comprises a collection of negative spaces that are interspersed between the second plurality of comb teeth; wherein the second plurality of diastema are distributed between the second plurality of comb teeth; wherein a diastema selected from the second plurality of diastema is positioned between any initial second individual tooth structure selected from the second plurality of comb teeth any subsequent second individual tooth structure selected from the second plurality of comb teeth that is adjacent to the initial selected second individual tooth structure.

20. The improved comb according to claim 19 wherein each diastema selected from the first plurality of diastema is defined with a first diastema spacing span; wherein the first diastema spacing span is the span of the reach between the center axis of the selected first individual tooth structure and the subsequent selected first individual tooth structure that is adjacent to the initial selected first individual tooth structure; wherein the span of the length of the first diastema spacing span of each diastema selected from the first plurality of diastema is identical; wherein each diastema selected from the second plurality of diastema is defined with a second diastema spacing span; wherein the second diastema spacing span is the span of the reach between the center axis of the selected second individual tooth structure and the subsequent selected second individual tooth structure that is adjacent to the initial selected second individual tooth structure; wherein the span of the length of the second diastema spacing span of each diastema selected from the second plurality of diastema is identical; wherein the span of the length of the second diastema spacing span is different from and not equal to the span of the length of the first diastema spacing span; wherein the difference between the span of the lengths of the second diastema spacing span and the first diastema spacing span forms a primary difference between the first comb section and the second comb section.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate an embodiment of the invention and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention. They are meant to be exemplary illustrations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to practice the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a front view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a side view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 3 is an edge view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 4 is an in-use view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT

[0014] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments of the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word exemplary or illustrative means serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any implementation described herein as exemplary or illustrative is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to practice the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description.

[0015] Detailed reference will now be made to one or more potential embodiments of the disclosure, which are illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 4.

[0016] The improved comb 100 (hereinafter invention) is an item of hair dressing equipment. The invention 100 is adapted for use with the hair of a client. The invention 100 is a mechanical structure. The invention 100 is a hand tool. The invention 100 is used to detangle and align the hair of the client. The invention 100 comprises a first comb section 101, a second comb 13 section 102, and a grip base 103. The first comb section 101 and the second comb section 102 attach to the grip base 103. The first comb section 101 and the second comb section 102 act as working elements of the tool of the invention 100. There are physical differences between the first comb section 101 and the second comb section 102 relevant to the hair dressing process.

[0017] The grip base 103 is a single structure. The grip base 103 is a disk shaped structure. The grip base 103 forms the base of the comb structure of the first comb section 101. The grip base 103 further forms the base of the comb structure of the second comb section 102. The grip base 103 is sized such that the grip base 103 bridges a reach between the first comb section 101 and the second comb section 102. The bridge formed by the grip base 103 is a negative space that is used as the handle of the tool of the invention 100. The grip base 103 is used to control and manipulate the first comb section 101. The grip base 103 is used to control and manipulate the second comb section 102. The grip base 103 further comprises first grip section 131, a second grip section 132, and a medial grip section 133.

[0018] The first grip section 131 is a subsection of the single structure that forms the grip base 103. The first grip section 131 forms the base structure that forms the comb structure of the first comb section 101. The plurality of teeth of the comb structure of the first comb section 101 attach to the lateral 13 face of the first grip section 131.

[0019] The second grip section 132 is a subsection of the single structure that forms the grip base 103. The second grip section 132 forms the base structure that forms the comb structure of the first comb section 101. The plurality of teeth of the comb structure of the first comb section 101 attach to the lateral 19 face of the second grip section 132.

[0020] The medial grip section 133 forms a bridge that attaches the first grip section 131 to the second grip section 132. The medial grip section 133 forms a hand hold used to control and manipulate the first comb section 101 and the second comb section 102. The medial grip section 133 forms a reach that separates the first comb section 101 and the second comb section 102.

[0021] The first comb section 101 forms a working element of the tool formed by the invention 100. The first comb section 101 forms the structure of the invention 100 that detangles and aligns the hair of the client. The first comb section 101 comprises a first end cap 111 and a first plurality of comb 8 teeth 112.

[0022] The first end cap 111 is a guard that mounts on the end of the first plurality of comb teeth 112. The first end cap 111 is a roughly prism shaped structure. The first end cap 111 attaches to the perimeter edge of the first grip section 131 of the grip base 103. The first end cap 111 attaches to the first grip section 131 such that the first plurality of comb teeth 112 positioned between the first end cap 111 and the medial grip section 133 of the grip base 103. The first end cap 111 forms a barrier structure that protects the first plurality of comb teeth 112 from impact damage.

[0023] The first end cap 111 attaches to the first grip section 131 such that the center axis of the first end cap 111 is parallel to the center axis of each first individual tooth structure 141 selected from the first plurality of comb teeth 112. The first end cap 111 projects away from the first grip section 131 in the same direction as each first individual tooth structure 141 selected from the first plurality of comb teeth 112.

[0024] The first plurality of comb teeth 112 forms the plurality of teeth of the comb structure of the first comb section 101. The first plurality of comb teeth 112 comprises a collection of first individual tooth structures 141. Each first individual tooth structure 141 selected from the first plurality of comb 8 teeth 112 is a prism shaped structure. Each selected first individual tooth structure 141 attaches to the first grip section 131 in the manner of a jib. Each selected first individual tooth structure 141 forms a physical barrier that routes the hair of the client away from the selected first individual tooth structure 141 into a diastema selected from the first plurality of diastema 142. The routing of the hair of the client into the first plurality of diastema 142 is the physical process that detangles and aligns the hair of the client.

[0025] Any initial second individual tooth structure 141 selected from the second plurality of comb teeth 112 is identical to any subsequent second individual tooth structure 141 selected from the second plurality of comb teeth 112.

[0026] The first plurality of comb teeth 112 further comprises a first plurality of diastema 142.

[0027] The first plurality of diastema 142 comprises a collection of negative spaces that are interspersed between the first plurality of comb teeth 112. The first plurality of diastema 142 are distributed between the first plurality of comb teeth 112.

[0028] A diastema selected from the first plurality of diastema 142 is positioned between any initial first individual tooth structure 141 selected from the first plurality of comb teeth 112 any subsequent first individual tooth structure 141 selected from the first plurality of comb teeth 112 that is adjacent to the initial selected first individual tooth structure 141. Each diastema selected from the first plurality of diastema 142 is defined with a first diastema spacing span 143.

[0029] The first diastema spacing span 143 is the span of the reach between the center axis of the selected first individual tooth structure 141 and the subsequent selected first individual tooth structure 141 that is adjacent to the initial selected first individual tooth structure 141. The span of the length of the first diastema spacing span 143 of each diastema selected from the first plurality of diastema 142 is identical.

[0030] The second comb section 102 forms a working element of the tool formed by the invention 100. The second comb section 102 forms the structure of the invention 100 that detangles and aligns the hair of the client. There are physical differences between the second comb section 102 and the first comb section 101 that are relevant to the hair dressing process. The second comb section 102 comprises a second end cap 121 and a second plurality of comb teeth 122.

[0031] The second end cap 121 is a guard that mounts on the end of the second plurality of comb teeth 122. The second end cap 121 is a roughly prism shaped structure. The second end cap 121 attaches to the perimeter edge of the second grip section 132 of the grip base 103. The second end cap 121 attaches to the second grip section 132 such that the second plurality of comb teeth 122 positioned between the second end cap 121 and the medial grip section 133 of the grip base 103. The second end 12 cap 121 forms a barrier structure that protects the second 13 plurality of comb teeth 122 from impact damage.

[0032] The second end cap 121 attaches to the second grip section 132 such that the center axis of the second end cap 121 is parallel to the center axis of each second individual tooth structure 151 selected from the second plurality of comb teeth 122. The second end cap 121 projects away from the second grip section 132 in the same direction as each second individual tooth structure 151 selected from the second plurality of comb teeth 122.

[0033] The second plurality of comb teeth 122 forms the plurality of teeth of the comb structure of the second comb section 102. The second plurality of comb teeth 122 comprises a collection of second individual tooth structures 151. Each second individual tooth structure 151 selected from the second plurality of comb teeth 122 is a prism shaped structure. Each selected second individual tooth structure 151 attaches to the second grip section 132 in the manner of a jib. Each selected second individual tooth structure 151 forms a physical barrier that routes the hair of the client away from the selected second individual tooth structure 151 into a diastema selected from the second plurality of diastema 152. The routing of the hair of the client into the second plurality of diastema 152 is the physical process that detangles and aligns the hair of the client.

[0034] The second plurality of comb teeth 122 further comprises a second plurality of diastema 152.

[0035] Any initial second individual tooth structure 151 selected from the second plurality of comb teeth 122 is identical to any subsequent second individual tooth structure 151 selected from the second plurality of comb teeth 122.

[0036] The second plurality of diastema 152 comprises a collection of negative spaces that are interspersed between the second plurality of comb teeth 122. The second plurality of diastema 152 are distributed between the second plurality of comb teeth 122.

[0037] A diastema selected from the second plurality of diastema 152 is positioned between any initial second individual tooth structure 151 selected from the second plurality of comb teeth 122 any subsequent second individual tooth structure 151 selected from the second plurality of comb teeth 122 that is adjacent to the initial selected second individual tooth structure 151. Each diastema selected from the second plurality of diastema 152 is defined with a second diastema spacing span 153.

[0038] The second diastema spacing span 153 is the span of the reach between the center axis of the selected second individual tooth structure 151 and the subsequent selected second individual tooth structure 151 that is adjacent to the initial selected second individual tooth structure 151. The span of the length of the second diastema spacing span 153 of each diastema selected from the second plurality of diastema 152 is identical.

[0039] The span of the length of the second diastema spacing span 153 is different from and not equal to the span of the length of the first diastema spacing span 143. The difference between the span of the lengths of the second diastema spacing span 153 and the first diastema spacing span 143 forms a primary difference between the first comb section 101 and the second comb section 102.

[0040] The first grip section 131 acts as a first guard; whereas the second grip section 132 acts as a second guard. For example, the first guard could be a size guard for an electric clipper; and the second guard could be a 1/16 size guard for the electric clipper. Moreover, the intent is not to limit the scope of this patent to one particular sizes.

[0041] The first grip section 131 can be used in lieu of attaching a guard onto the electrical clipper. The same can be said of the second grip section 132. In use, the barber can simply flip the invention 100 back and forth when cutting hair without needing to exchange put on or off the different sized guards for the electric clipper. This capability saves time, and enables the barber to efficiently go between the two sizes that electric clippers have as guards.

[0042] The following definitions were used in this disclosure:

[0043] Align: As used in this disclosure, align refers to an arrangement of objects that are: 1) arranged in a straight plane or line; 2) arranged to give a directional sense of a plurality of parallel planes or lines; or, 3) a first line or curve is congruent to and overlaid on a second line or curve.

[0044] Bridge: As used in this disclosure, a bridge refers to a load bearing structure that attaches a first object and to a second object such that a load bearing path is formed between the first object and the second object. The verb to bridge means to establish a connection (or remove a disconnection) between a first object and a second object.

[0045] Cant: As used in this disclosure, a cant is an angular deviation from one or more reference lines (or planes) such as a vertical line (or plane) or a horizontal line (or plane).

[0046] Cantilever: As used in this disclosure, a cantilever is a beam or other structure that projects away from an object and is supported on only one end. A cantilever is further defined with a fixed end and a free end. The fixed end is the end of the cantilever that is attached to the object. The free end is the end of the cantilever that is distal from the fixed end.

[0047] Center: As used in this disclosure, a center is a point that is: 1) the point within a circle that is equidistant from all the points of the circumference; 2) the point within a regular polygon that is equidistant from all the vertices of the regular polygon; 3) the point on a line that is equidistant from the ends of the line; 4) the point, pivot, or axis around which something revolves; or, 5) the centroid or first moment of an area or structure. In cases where the appropriate definition or definitions are not obvious, the fifth option should be used in interpreting the specification.

[0048] Center, Major, Minor, and Thickness Dimensions: As used in this disclosure, the center dimension, the major dimension, the minor dimension, and the thickness each refer to the span of a length associated with a structure selected from the group consisting of a prism structure and a disk structure. The center dimension is the span of the length of the center axis of the selected structure. The thickness is an alternate name given to the center dimension when the selected structure is a disk structure. The major dimension is the span of the length of the major axis of the perimetrical boundary that contains the selected structure. The minor dimension is the span of the length of the minor axis of the perimetrical boundary that contains the selected structure. The terms center dimension, the major dimension, the minor dimension, and the thickness are also used to describe one or more linear axes of direction associated with the selected structure.

[0049] Center Axis: As used in this disclosure, the center axis is the axis of a cylinder or a prism. The center axis of a prism is the line that joins the center point of the first congruent face of the prism to the center point of the second corresponding congruent face of the prism. The center axis of a pyramid refers to a line formed through the apex of the pyramid that is perpendicular to the base of the pyramid. When the center axes of two cylinder, prism or pyramidal structures share the same line they are said to be aligned. When the center axes of two cylinder, prism or pyramidal structures do not share the same line they are said to be offset.

[0050] Comb: As used in this disclosure, a comb is a toothed device that is used for detangling or otherwise arranging hair. The comb comprises a base structure from which project a plurality of teeth. Each of the plurality of teeth is a rod that projects away from the base structure. The hair is placed in the diastema between each pair of adjacent teeth selected from the plurality of teeth.

[0051] Composite Prism: As used in this disclosure, a composite prism refers to a structure that is formed from a plurality of structures selected from the group consisting of a prism structure, a pyramid structure, and a spherical structure. The plurality of selected structures may or may not be truncated or bifurcated. The plurality of prism structures are joined together such that the center axes of each of the plurality of structures are aligned. The congruent ends of any two structures selected from the group consisting of a prism structure and a pyramid structure need not be geometrically similar.

[0052] Congruent: As used in this disclosure, congruent is a term that compares a first object to a second object. Specifically, two objects are said to be congruent when: 1) they are geometrically similar; and, 2) the first object can superimpose over the second object such that the first object aligns, within manufacturing tolerances, with the second object.

[0053] Correspond: As used in this disclosure, the term correspond is used as a comparison between two or more objects wherein one or more properties shared by the two or more objects match, agree, or align within acceptable manufacturing tolerances.

[0054] Diastema: As used in this disclosure, a diastema is the space between two teeth.

[0055] Disk: As used in this disclosure, a disk is a prism-shaped object that is flat in appearance. The disk is formed from two congruent ends that are attached by a lateral face. The sum of the surface areas of two congruent ends of the prism-shaped object that forms the disk is greater than the surface area of the lateral face of the prism-shaped object that forms the disk. In this disclosure, the congruent ends of the prism-shaped structure that forms the disk are referred to as the faces of the disk.

[0056] Exterior: As used in this disclosure, the exterior is used as a relational term that implies that an object is not contained within the boundary of a structure or a space.

[0057] Fixed and Free End: As used in this disclosure, a fixed end refers to the congruent end of a prism shaped structure that is secured to an anchor point of a primary structure. A free end refers to the congruent end of the prism shaped structure: a) that is distal from the fixed end; and, b) that is not secured to the primary structure. The free end of the prism shaped structure can be secured to a secondary structure that is independent of the primary structure. When the attaching structure is not prism shaped, the perimetrical boundary of the attaching structure is substituted for the prism shaped structure to identify the corresponding fixed and free ends.

[0058] Form Factor: As used in this disclosure, the term form factor refers to the size and shape of an object.

[0059] Geometrically Similar: As used in this disclosure, geometrically similar is a term that compares a first object to a second object wherein: 1) the sides of the first object have a one to one correspondence to the sides of the second object; 2) wherein the ratio of the length of each pair of corresponding sides are equal; 3) the angles formed by the first object have a one to one correspondence to the angles of the second object; and, 4) wherein the corresponding angles are equal. The term geometrically identical refers to a situation where the ratio of the length of each pair of corresponding sides equals 1. By the term essentially geometrically similar is meant that the primary shapes of two objects are geometrically similar except that there are functional items (such as fastening devices) associated with the primary shape may not maintain the ratio for geometric similarity. By the term roughly geometrically similar is meant that the form factors between the primary shape of the two objects can vary by a factor of up to 10% when the two objects are normalized to be roughly geometrically identical.

[0060] Grip: As used in this disclosure, a grip is an accommodation formed on or within an object that allows the object to be grasped or manipulated by a hand.

[0061] Hair: As used in this disclosure, hair is refers to the fibrous keratin-based structure commonly seen growing from the skin of mammals.

[0062] Hand Tool: As used in this disclosure, a hand tool refers to a tool that is small and light enough to allow a person to hold the tool during use.

[0063] Handle: As used in this disclosure, a handle is an object by which a tool, object, or door is held or manipulated with the hand.

[0064] Interior: As used in this disclosure, the interior is used as a relational term that implies that an object is contained within the boundary of a structure or a space.

[0065] Jib: As used in this disclosure, a jib is a beam structure that: 1) is mounted with a free end in the manner of a cantilever; and, 2) supports a load.

[0066] Load: As used in this disclosure, the term load refers to an object upon which a force is acting or which is otherwise absorbing energy in some fashion. Examples of a load in this sense include, but are not limited to, a mass that is being moved a distance or an electrical circuit element that draws energy. The term load is also commonly used to refer to the forces that are applied to a stationary structure.

[0067] Load Path: As used in this disclosure, a load path refers to a chain of one or more structures that transfers a load generated by a raised structure or object to a foundation, supporting surface, or the earth.

[0068] Major and Minor Axes: As used in this disclosure, the major and minor axes refer to a pair of perpendicular axes that are defined within a structure. The length of the major axis is always greater than or equal to the length of the minor axis. The major axis forms the longest symmetric bifurcation of a structure selected from the group consisting of: a) the structure; or, b) the perimetrical boundary of the structure. The major and minor axes intersect at the center of the structure. The major axis is always parallel or perpendicular to an edge of a rectangular or rectilinear structure.

[0069] Negative Space: As used in this disclosure, negative space is a method of defining an object through the use of open or empty space as the definition of the object itself, or, through the use of open or empty space to describe the boundaries of an object.

[0070] Not Significantly Different: As used in this disclosure, the term not significantly different compares a specified property of a first object to the corresponding property of a reference object (reference property). The specified property is considered to be not significantly different from the reference property when the absolute value of the difference between the specified property and the reference property is less than 10.0% of the reference property value. A negligible difference is considered to be not significantly different.

[0071] One to One: When used in this disclosure, a one to one relationship means that a first element selected from a first set is in some manner connected to only one element of a second set. A one to one correspondence means that the one to one relationship exists both from the first set to the second set and from the second set to the first set. A one to one fashion means that the one to one relationship exists in only one direction. In a one to one correspondence, the first element of the first set is said to be associated to the second element of the second set to which the first element corresponds.

[0072] Pan: As used in this disclosure, a pan is a hollow and prism-shaped containment structure. The pan has a single open face. The open face of the pan is often, but not always, the superior face of the pan. The open face is a surface selected from the group consisting of: a) a congruent end of the prism structure that forms the pan; and, b) a lateral face of the prism structure that forms the pan. A semi-enclosed pan refers to a pan wherein the closed end of prism structure of the pan and/or a portion of the closed lateral faces of the pan are open.

[0073] Pedestal: As used in this disclosure, a pedestal is an intermediary load bearing structure that forms a load path between two objects or structures.

[0074] Perimeter: As used in this disclosure, a perimeter is one or more curved or straight lines that bounds an enclosed area on a plane or surface. The perimeter of a circle is commonly referred to as a circumference.

[0075] Perimetrical Boundary: As used in this disclosure, a perimetrical boundary is a hypothetical rectangular block that contains an object. Specifically, the rectangular block selected to be the perimetrical boundary is the rectangular block with the minimum volume that fully contains the object. In a two-dimensional structure, the perimetrical boundary is the rectangle with the minimum surface area.

[0076] Primary Difference: As used in this disclosure, a primary difference refers to a difference between two similar objects that is relevant to the creation of a patentable distinction between the two objects. The use of the term primary difference is intended to indicate that other differences that may exist between the two objects are not considered relevant to the creation of a patentable distinction within this disclosure.

[0077] Primary Shape: As used in this disclosure, the primary shape refers to a description of the rough overall geometric shape of an object that is assembled from multiple components or surfaces. The term essential primary shape is used to indicate the exclusion of functional items that are attached to the structure of the primary shape.

[0078] Primary Structure: As used in this disclosure, a primary structure refers to the component of an object that the other components attach to. The primary structure is also called the base structure.

[0079] Prism: As used in this disclosure, a prism is a three-dimensional geometric structure wherein: 1) the form factor of two faces of the prism are congruent; and, 2) the two congruent faces are parallel to each other. The two congruent faces are also commonly referred to as the ends of the prism. The surfaces that connect the two congruent faces are called the lateral faces. In this disclosure, when further description is required a prism will be named for the geometric or descriptive name of the form factor of the two congruent faces. If the form factor of the two corresponding faces has no clearly established or well-known geometric or descriptive name, the term irregular prism will be used. The center axis of a prism is defined as a line that joins the center point of the first congruent face of the prism to the center point of the second corresponding congruent face of the prism. The center axis of a prism is otherwise analogous to the center axis of a cylinder. A prism wherein the ends are circles is commonly referred to as a cylinder.

[0080] Reach: As used in this disclosure, reach refers to a span of distance between any two objects.

[0081] Rigid Structure: As used in this disclosure, a rigid structure is a solid structure formed from an inelastic material that resists changes in shape. A rigid structure will permanently deform as it fails under a force. See bimodal flexible structure.

[0082] Roughly: As used in this disclosure, roughly refers to a comparison between two objects. Roughly means that the difference between one or more parameters of the two compared objects are not significantly different.

[0083] Semi-Rigid Structure: As used in this disclosure, a semi-rigid structure is a solid structure that is stiff but not wholly inflexible and that will deform under force before breaking. A semi-rigid structure may or may not behave with an elastic nature in that a semi-rigid structure need not return to its relaxed shape.

[0084] Surface: As used in this disclosure, a surface refers to a boundary structure that forms the separation between two compounds (or objects) of different phases.

[0085] Teeth: As used in this disclosure, the teeth refer to a plurality of working elements of a tool that interact with an object in order to cut or align the object. An individual working element selected form the plurality of working elements is called a tooth.

[0086] Tool: As used in this disclosure, a tool is a device, an apparatus, or an instrument that is used to carry out an activity, operation, or procedure. A tool generally comprises a working element and a handle. The handle of a tool that forms a sub-component of a larger structure is referred to as a mount.

[0087] Working Element: As used in this disclosure, the working element of a tool is the physical element on the tool that performs the actual activity, operation, or procedure the tool is designed to perform. For example, the cutting edge of a blade is the working element of a knife.

[0088] With respect to the above description, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationship for the various components of the invention described above and in FIGS. 1 through 4 include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function, and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the invention.

[0089] It shall be noted that those skilled in the art will readily recognize numerous adaptations and modifications which can be made to the various embodiments of the present invention which will result in an improved invention, yet all of which will fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined in the following claims. Accordingly, the invention is to be limited only by the scope of the following claims and their equivalents.