Abstract: Polyurethane shapes containing a core layer of a water soluble polymer such as polyethylene oxide (PEO) are produced by casting onto a surface an aqueous mixture containing a pre-polymer of a hydrophilic polyurethane as a first layer of uncured polyurethane, covering the uncured first layer with release paper and compressing the layer, uncovering the uncured first layer and distributing PEO on the uncured surface, applying a second layer of uncured polyurethane on top of the PEO while the polyurethane is still uncured, then covering the resulting mass with release paper and compressing it to form an integrated, layered shaped article containing a core region enriched in PEO that when wetted releases PEO over an extended period.

Abstract: A razor assembly is provided that includes a razor cartridge with one or more razor blades, a shaving aid body, a handle, and a linkage pivotally connected to the handle. The linkage is connected to the razor cartridge and the shaving aid body in a manner such that the razor cartridge and the shaving aid body are moveable relative to the handle. Movement of one of the razor cartridge or the shaving aid body in a first direction causes the other of the razor cartridge or the shaving aid body to move in a second direction substantially opposite the first direction. As a result, the positions of the shaving aid body and the razor cartridge are continuously adjusted to maintain the contact surface of the shaving aid body approximately co-planar with the cutting edges of the razor blades within the razor cartridge.

Abstract: A shaving system includes a safety razor and a base station spaced apart from one another. The base station has a reservoir adapted to contain a shaving aid material capable of fluid flow. The base station is linked to the safety razor by an umbilical to provide fluid communication between the reservoir and an applicator of the safety razor to deliver the shaving aid material to the skin surface of a user during a shaving operation. A pump can be provided to propel the shaving aid material. A sensor can be provided to initiate operation of the pump. The reservoir can be refillable or replaceable.

Abstract: A handle for a safety razor has an elongated cavity within the handle and a body disposed within the elongated cavity and moveable along the cavity under the influence of gravity between two positions. In a first position the razor has a first center of balance. In the second position the razor has a second center of balance different from the first center of balance. The handle has a damping fluid within the cavity or a resilient member to damp the movement of the body.

Abstract: A shaving system is provided that includes a safety razor that can be selectively connected to a razor holder via a fluid coupling. At least one gas-generating electrochemical cell is disposed in a sealed gas module in the razor holder. The gas module is in fluid communication with a reservoir adapted to contain shaving aid material capable of fluid flow. The reservoir is in the handle or can have a portion in the holder and a portion in the handle of the safety razor. The gas-generating cell is employed to generally continuously pressurize the portion of the shaving aid material disposed in the handle reservoir. During a normal shaving operation a valve arrangement of the handle can be operated enabling the pressurized shaving aid material in the handle reservoir to be deposited on the skin surface of a user.

Abstract: A razor blade and support assembly is provided which flexes in response to shaving forces near slots in the blade support. A razor cartridge includes one or more of the aforementioned razor blade and support assemblies positioned in a housing. The razor cartridge may be permanently or removably coupled to a handle to provide a shaving razor.