Patent ID: 6523545
Filing Date: 2003-02-25
Classification: A45D

Abstract:
A device for retaining nail clippings which are cut by a nail clipper comprising, in combination:(a) two substantially similar, springlike elongate members, each including a first end having a transverse cutting edge, and a second, opposite end, the second ends of the elongate members being affixed together such that the cutting edges at the first ends are normally spaced apart but can be pressed into cutting engagement with each other against a natural spring bias of the elongate members, said elongate members each having a hole located near said first end, the holes of said two elongate members being in alignment; (b) a pin arranged to pass through the holes in said elongate members, said pin having a head at one end which is larger than the hole of the adjacent elongate member thus anchoring the pin at said one end and having pivot attachment means at its opposite end; and (c) a lever arm pivotally attached to said opposite end of said pin and operative to swivel between a first position, in which the cutting edges of the elongate members remain spaced apart and a second position in which the elongate members are pressed together and their respective cutting edges are pressed into cutting engagement; said device comprising, in combination: (1) a housing adapted to cover openings between the elongate members on opposite, lateral edges thereof, from said first ends to said second ends, thereby forming an enclosed region within the nail clipper; and (2) a valve element, adapted to be arranged between the elongate members, for blocking passage of nail clippings when the lever arm is in said first position and for allowing passage of nail clippings when said lever arm is in said second position, thereby to allow nail clippings to pass to the region between the elongate members adjacent their second ends when the cutting edges are pressed together and such nail clippings are cut from a fingernail or toenail, and thereafter to retain such nail clippings in said region when the cutting edges are spaced apart.