Abstract:
A hair cutting apparatus comprising: an elongate element ( 260 ) heated to a temperature capable of cutting hair; a vibrating structure ( 200 ), on which said elongate element ( 260 ) is mounted; and a housing ( 106 ) in which the vibrating structure ( 200 ) is mounted.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
       [0001]     The present invention relates to removing hair with a heat element.  
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0002]     The removal of unwanted hair from the body can be accomplished with mechanized means, for example razors, tweezers or wax, all of which are uncomfortable to use, irritate the skin and/or cause damage to the skin.  
         [0003]     The use of heated wires or other structures to cut hair from a skin surface has been proposed. However, a heat generator that generates heat of a sufficient magnitude to cut hair and is offset from the skin to prevent skin damage, often leaves behind unwanted stubble.  
         [0004]     In Peterson, U.S. Pat. No. 3,934,115, parallel metal strips on the upper side of ceramic facing that contacts the skin, are used to cut hair. Hills, in U.S. Pat. No. 2,727,132 and P. Massimo in IT 1201364, use a continuously heated element to burn hair. P. M. Bell in U.S. Pat. No. 558,465, D. Seide in U.S. Pat. No. 0,589,445, G. S. Hills in U.S. Pat. No. 2,727,132, G. L. Johnson in U.S. Pat. No. 3,093,724, Hashimoto in U.S. Pat. No. 5,064,993 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,307,181 B1, F. Solvinto in FR 2531655 and EP 0201189, and E. Michit in 2612381, use a continuously heated wire to burn hair. J. F. Carter in U.S. Pat. No. 3,474,224, provides a circular comb device for burning nose hairs. These references do not appear to provide a means of reducing the hairs to the level of the skin.  
         [0005]     Vrtaric, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,254,324, provides a heat hair cutting system that is applied only to the tips of the hair to remove the split ends.  
         [0006]     The present applicants have disclosed a heat-generating system for cutting hair in PCT publications WO 03/009977 and WO 03/009976. The disclosures of these applications are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference. These applications describe methods and devices in which a wire providing pulsed or non-pulsed heat is used to cut hair. As used herein, a heat-generating wire refers to one or more of: metal wires, ribbons or any other type of heat-generating elements capable of generating heat of sufficient magnitude and/or duration to cut hair from an area of skin. In general, all of the configurations of wires, etc. disclosed in either of the above referenced applications. In addition, the structures and methods described herein are usable in or in conjunction with the structures disclosed therein.  
         [0007]     In the above referenced PCT applications, the hair is severed close to the skin by heating the hair. This severing of the hair may also destroy at least a portion of the hair below the skin. As used herein the term “cut” is used to describe this type of severing or shaving of the hair.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0008]     According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, a wire generating heat sufficient to cut hair, is mounted on a structure adapted for cutting hair and vibrated in relation to hair on an area of skin, thereby making multiple passes relative to the hair.  
         [0009]     In an exemplary embodiment, the heat-generating wire is vibrated in relation to the structure by a vibrating mechanism. The preferred direction of vibration is generally parallel to the skin of the user and generally perpendicular to the ling dimension of the wires. The mechanism, for example, may comprise a motor having an asymmetrically weighted rotatable component. Other known methods and/or apparatus for causing vibration can also be used.  
         [0010]     Optionally, the structure comprises a motion detector that turns the vibrating mechanism on or off in response to motion of the structure (i.e., the frame) along the skin. Alternatively or additionally, the motion detector switches the vibrator on or off when the structure moves above or below a minimum speed in relation to the area. Optionally, the motion detector, in addition to controlling vibrations, controls the duration of the heat period provided by the heat-generating wire. Optionally, the motion detector comprises a mechanical detector or an optical detector. Alternatively, the motion detector may, at least near the threshold modify the temperature or vibrations rather than turn them on or off at the threshold. As used herein the terms “turn-on” or “turn-off” include such more limited modifications.  
         [0011]     According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, a structure adapted for cutting hair from an area of skin comprises an opening having a heat-generating wire mounted on a frame therein and two or more elongate skin depressing elements have their long dimension directed toward the opening and the wire. Optionally, the elongate elements are planar with the skin or form an acute angle of less than 15 degrees, optionally less than 5 degrees with the skin (i.e., the plane of the opening). Optionally, the two or more skin depressing elements comprise two or more rows of skin depressing elements, separated by and directed toward a gap in which the wire is located.  
         [0012]     Optionally, the wire is mounted on two of more posts in the opening and the opening comprises two or more post protectors positioned to prevent the posts from contacting the skin, for example by having one or more of the skin depressing elements project further from the device than the other elements or by the posts being covered by a solid element.  
         [0013]     According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, a structure adapted for cutting hair from an area of skin comprises an opening in which a heat-generating wire is mounted on a positionally adjustable frame. Optionally, one or more position adjusters are mounted between the frame and the structure. By moving the one or more position adjusters, the position of the heat-generating wire is adjusted with respect to the opening and/or the angle of the wire is adjusted with respect to the plane of the opening.  
         [0014]     Optionally, the frame is fashioned so that it plugs into mounting sockets and a portion of the frame and/or the sockets are electrically conductive.  
         [0015]     In an exemplary embodiment, the frame comprises two or more posts, each post having a guideway in which the wire is centered. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the posts is resilient so that it maintains the wire in tension, for example, during longitudinal expansion that may occur during heat generation and/or due to pressure as the wire presses against the hair. Optionally, at least one post is relatively flexible when force is applied along the axis of the wire and/or relatively non-flexible when force is applied perpendicular to the axis of the wire.  
         [0016]     According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, a method is provided for tensioning a heat-generating wire on a frame comprising two resilient posts. Optionally each post has a wire guide channel in which the wire rests or is held. In an exemplary embodiment, the wire is pulled against the guide channels at an angle that causes the posts to bent toward each other. While the posts are bent, the wire is attached to the frame or the posts themselves so that the posts remain bent to maintain the wire in tension after an external tensioning force is removed. Optionally, the wire is tensioned during the tensioning and attachment process using one or more tension-providing mechanisms. In an embodiment of the invention, the posts are springy or resilient, which terms are used interchangeably herein.  
         [0017]     According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, a structure having a heat-generating wire adapted to vibrate during cutting of hair, comprises a collection apparatus that collects cut hair. The collection apparatus, for example, comprises an electrostatically charged bar to which the cut hair is attracted. Optionally, the bar includes a comb and/or a brush to aid in bringing the cut hair proximal to the electrostatic charge. Optionally, the collection apparatus comprises a collection area, for example a cavity juxtaposed against the structure.  
         [0018]     According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, the structure comprises a deodorant dispenser adapted to dispense deodorant in response to heat and/or vibration. Optionally, the dispenser comprises a venturi opening to facilitate deodorant dispensation in response to vibration. Optionally, the dispenser is adapted to receive a solid and/or fluid deodorant that atomizes and/or vaporizes in response to heat and/or vibrations.  
         [0019]     According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, a structure having a heat-generating wire adapted to vibrate during cutting of hair, comprises an odor-reducing filter juxtaposed near the wire, through which odors generated by the wire pass. Optionally, the filter comprises an absorbent material adapted to receive an odor reducing deodorant that further reduces the odors during said passage. In an exemplary embodiment, a rotating impeller is juxtaposed in proximity to the filter to cause passage of the odors through the filter.  
         [0020]     There is therefore provided, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a hair cutting apparatus comprising:  
         [0021]     an elongate element heated to a temperature capable of cutting hair;  
         [0022]     a vibrating structure, on which said elongate element is mounted; and  
         [0023]     a housing in which the vibrating structure is mounted.  
         [0024]     Optionally, vibrations of the vibrating structure causes the heat-generating element to pass two or more times over hair as the apparatus is moved slowly along a hair containing area of the skin.  
         [0025]     Optionally, the elongate element is mounted between two posts separated by a distance, one or both of the posts comprising a springy material, adapted to tension to the wire. Optionally, each springy post is relatively flexible in response to force applied in a first direction, and relatively non-flexible in response to force applied in a second direction. Optionally, at least a portion of the posts comprises a guideway against which at least a portion of the wire is mounted. Optionally, the posts are electrically conductive. Optionally, the wire is connected to the posts.  
         [0026]     Optionally, the apparatus includes electrically conductive sockets on the structure adapted to receive the posts.  
         [0027]     Optionally, the apparatus includes two or more post stabilizers, which limit the movement of the posts with respect to the housing in a direction perpendicular to an axis of the wire.  
         [0028]     In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus includes an eccentric rotating weight that causes the structure to vibrate as the weight rotates. Optionally, the apparatus includes a motion detector that turns the vibrating structure on or off in response to movement of the wire along the area. Optionally, the motion detector turns the vibrating structure on and off in response to a minimum speed. Optionally, the motion detector provides an indication of speed in excess of a given value. Optionally the indication comprises a visual indication. Optionally, the indication comprises a shutting off of the vibration.  
         [0029]     In an embodiment of the invention, the motion detector additionally controls the generation of heat on the elongate element. Optionally, the motion detector turns the heat generating element off in response to a measurement of a speed less than a predetermined speed. Optionally, the motion detector turns the heat generating element off in response to a speed greater than a predetermined speed. Optionally, the motion detector comprises at least one of a mechanical motion detector and an optical motion detector.  
         [0030]     In an embodiment of the invention, the heated element is a wire.  
         [0031]     In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus is a hand held apparatus adapted to be pressed against the skin of a user and cut hair on said skin.  
         [0032]     There is further provided, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, a method of cutting hair from an area of skin with a vibrating heat-generating wire, comprising:  
         [0033]     a) heating an elongate element to a temperature high enough to cut the hair;  
         [0034]     b) placing the heated elongate element against the area; and  
         [0035]     c) vibrating the element in a direction perpendicular to a long axis thereof, so that it makes multiple passes over the area during the placement.  
         [0036]     Optionally, the method includes collecting the cut hair. Optionally, the method includes moving the cut hair into a receptacle.  
         [0037]     Optionally, the method includes moving the elongate element along the surface of the skin of an area from which hair is to be removed by hand.  
         [0038]     In an embodiment of the invention, the elongate element is a wire.  
         [0039]     In an embodiment of the invention, the method includes moving the elongate element along the surface of the skin of an area from which hair is to be removed by hand.  
         [0040]     There is further provided, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, an A method of manufacturing a tensioned heat-generating wire, comprising:  
         [0041]     positioning a wire on two separated posts, at least one of which is resilient in a direction along the wire axis;  
         [0042]     tensioning the wire in a direction and by an amount sufficient to deform the posts so that the positions of the wire on the posts toward each other; and  
         [0043]     fixing the wires in place so that they remain tensioned by the deformed post or posts.  
         [0044]     Optionally, when at least one of the posts is provided with a guide for the wire and including:  
         [0045]     positioning the at least one wire guide;  
         [0046]     pulling at least one ends of the wire extending past the postions of the wires on the post in a direction having a zero or acute angle with the axis of the post, to bend the post toward the other post.  
         [0047]     Optionally fixing comprises fixing the wire to its respective post while it is tensioned.  
         [0048]     In an embodiment of the invention the positioning occurs at the tip of the at least one post and the fixing occurs proximal to the tip.  
         [0049]     There is further provided, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, a hair cutting head, for use in a hair cutting apparatus and having a portion adapted for contacting an area of skin having hair, the head comprising:  
         [0050]     a) at least two rows of elongate skin depressing elements defining an opening in the structure;  
         [0051]     b) an elongate element situated in the opening and capable of producing heat sufficient to cut hair, when electrified; and  
         [0052]     c) a base on which the elements of the head are mounted,  
         [0053]     wherein long axes of the skin depressing elements are pointed generally toward the center of the opening.  
         [0054]     Optionally, the long axes make an angle of less than about 20 degrees with a plane defined by the opening. Optionally, the two or more skin depressing elements are separated by a gap in which the elongate element is located.  
         [0055]     In an embodiment of the invention, the elongate element comprises a wire.  
         [0056]     In an embodiment of the invention, the head includes one or more position adjuster mechanisms juxtaposed between the frame and the structure.  
         [0057]     There is further provided, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, a hair cutting head, for use in a hair cutting apparatus and having a portion adapted for contacting an area of skin having hair, the head comprising:  
         [0058]     a) a positionally adjustable frame moveably mounted on the structure;  
         [0059]     b) a heat-generating elongate element capable of producing heat sufficient to cut hair, mounted on the frame near the opening; and  
         [0060]     c) one or more position adjuster mechanisms juxtaposed between the frame and the structure.  
         [0061]     Optionally, one or more adjuster mechanisms adjust the overall position of the wire with respect to the opening. Alternatively or additionally, the one or more adjuster mechanisms adjusts the angle of the wire with respect to the plane of the opening.  
         [0062]     Optionally, the elongate element is a wire.  
         [0063]     Optionally, the head also includes at least two mounting pins suitable for mounting the head in a hair cutting apparatus said pins being electrically connected to said elongate element.  
         [0064]     There is further provided, according an an embodiment of the invention, a hair cutting apparatus including:  
         [0065]     a head according to the invention;  
         [0066]     a power source operative to heat the elongate elements to a temperature sufficient to cut hair.  
         [0067]     Optionally, the head also includes at least two mounting pins electrically connected to said elongate element and wherein the apparatus includes matching mounting sockets, electrically connected to said source.  
         [0068]     Optionally, the apparatus also including means for vibrating the elongate element in a direction perpendicular to a long dimension thereof. Optionally, the means for vibrating is operative to vibrate the head with a motion causing said vibration of the elongate element.  
         [0069]     In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus is a hand held apparatus adapted to be pressed against the skin of a user and cut hair on said skin.  
         [0070]     There is further provided, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, a hair cutting apparatus comprising a structure having a portion adapted for contacting an area of skin having hair, the apparatus comprising:  
         [0071]     a) a heat-generating elongate element producing heat sufficient to cut hair, mounted on the portion; and  
         [0072]     b) a deodorant or perfume dispenser juxtaposed in relation to the portion.  
         [0073]     Optionally, the dispenser is adapted to dispense a deodorant or perfume in response to heat.  
         [0074]     Optionally, the elongate element is adapted to vibrate.  
         [0075]     In an embodiment of the invention, the deodorant dispenser is adapted to dispense a deodorant in response to vibration.  
         [0076]     There is further provided, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, a hair cutting apparatus comprising a structure having a portion adapted for contacting an area of skin having hair, the apparatus comprising:  
         [0077]     a) a heat-generating element producing heat sufficient to cut hair, mounted on the portion; and  
         [0078]     b) a filter mounted on the portion; and  
         [0079]     c) a pump mounted on the structure, adapted to cause air to flow from the element through the filter.  
         [0080]     Optionally, the filter dispenses a deodorant or perfume into air that passes through it.  
         [0081]     There is further provided, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, a hair cutting apparatus comprising a structure adapted for contacting an area of skin having hair, the apparatus comprising:  
         [0082]     a) a heat-generating elongate element producing heat sufficient to cut hair, mounted on the portion; and  
         [0083]     b) an electrostatically charged element adapted for collecting cut hair.  
         [0084]     Optionally, the electrostatically charged element further comprises at least one of: a brush, a comb, and a hair collection receptacle.  
         [0085]     In an embodiment of the invention, the heated element is a wire.  
         [0086]     In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus is a hand held apparatus adapted to be pressed against the skin of a user and cut hair on said skin.  
         [0087]     There is further provided, a method of collecting cut hair, comprising:  
         [0088]     a) cutting hair with a heated elongate element; and  
         [0089]     b) collecting the hair cuttings with an electrostatically charged element.  
         [0090]     Optionally, the electrostatically charged element comprises at least one of: a brush, a comb, and a hair collection receptacle.  
         [0091]     Optionally, the method includes collecting the cut hair into a receptacle.  
         [0092]     Optionally, the heated elongate element is a wire.  
         [0093]     Optionally, the method includes moving the heated elongate element along the surface of the skin of an area from which hair is to be removed by hand. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0094]     Exemplary non-limiting embodiments of the invention described in the following description, read with reference to the figures attached hereto. In the figures, identical and similar structures, elements or parts thereof that appear in more than one figure are generally labeled with the same or similar references in the figures in which they appear. Dimensions of components and features shown in the figures are chosen primarily for convenience and clarity of presentation and are not necessarily to scale. The attached figures are:  
         [0095]      FIG. 1A  is a schematic diagram of a structure supporting a heat-generating wire adapted for cutting hair, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;  
         [0096]      FIG. 1B  is a schematic diagram of an alternative structure of  FIG. 1A , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;  
         [0097]      FIG. 2  is a schematic diagram of the structure of  FIG. 1A  including position adjusters, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;  
         [0098]      FIG. 3  is a partly sectioned isometric view of a vibrating hair cutting unit, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention; and  
         [0099]      FIG. 4  is side cross-section of the vibrating hair cutting unit of  FIG. 3 , shown while cutting a hair, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. 
     
    
     DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS  
       [0100]      FIG. 1A  is a simplified schematic diagram of a heat-generating wire  260  suspended on a frame  200 , comprising two  240  and  242 , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. In an exemplary embodiment, posts  240  and  242  comprise wire guideways  120  and  122 . Heat-generating wire  260  is optionally centered in guideways  120  and/or  122 .  
         [0101]     In an exemplary embodiment, posts  240  and  242  are held in position by a strut  244 , for example substantially perpendicular to posts  240  and  242 . Heat-generating wire  260 , for example, is attached at wire ends  270  and  272  to posts  240  and/or  242 .  
         [0102]     In an exemplary embodiment, a conduction post  290  is electrically conductive and is attached to an electrically conductive area  190  while a conduction post  292  is electrically conductive and is attached to an electrically conductive area  192 . Further, tension-providing posts  240  and  242  are electrically conductive and connected to conductive areas  190  and  192  respectively so that power provided through posts  290  and  292  causes wire  260  to generate heat.  
         [0103]     In an exemplary embodiment, one or both of tension posts  240  and  242  are manufactured from a springy electrically conductive material so that when properly positioned they serve to keep heat-generating wire  260  taut during motion across a skin surface. Optionally, posts  240  and/or  242  are relatively flexible so they bend when subjected to a force pushing them towards each other. Optionally, posts  240  and/or  242  are relatively inflexible so they do not bend when subjected to a force pushing them perpendicular to the axis of wire  260 .  
         [0104]     In an exemplary embodiment, tensioning of wire  260  during manufacture is accomplished, for example, in the following manner, when one or both of the posts are springy:  
         [0105]     With the wire placed in guides  120  and  122 , wire ends  270  and/or  272  are pulled in a direction  208 , with sufficient force and/or at an appropriate angle, with respect to (horizontal) wire  260 , to cause posts  240  and  242  to bend toward each. Wire  260  is then attached to posts  240  and/or  242 , for example at points  276  and  278  respectively, using solder, electrically conductive glue (such as conductive epoxy) and/or other connection means known in the art. Mechanical connection such as clamping can also be used. Optionally the clamp is copper or gold coated to provide a slightly conforming and highly conductive mechanical electrical connection. It should be noted that posts guideways  120  and/or  122  may be continually bent toward each other by the tension of wire  260 . After attachment to the posts, free ends of the wires may be removed.  
         [0106]     A similar method may be used if only one post is springy (or even if both are springy). In this case, wire  260  is optionally permanently attached to the inflexible post (or optionally to the frame), before or after tensioning. Then the other end of the wire is tensioned as aforesaid and the then attached to the frame or post on which it is mounted. Optionally, especially when the wire is pre-attached to one of the post, that post does not need a guide.  
         [0107]     Optionally, additional tension to wire  260  is provided by one or more coiled springs between posts  240  and/or  242  and wire  260 .  
         [0108]     Tensioned wire  260 , will remain in tension even in the presence of longitudinal expansion that occurs due to heating of wire  260  and/or due to pressure as wire  260  moves in a direction  402  against a hair  404  ( FIG. 4 ).  
         [0109]     One method of pulling wire ends  270  and/or  272  in direction  208  is by attaching wire ends  270  and/or  272  to on or more tension-providing wheels (not shown), positioned, for example on strut  244 . By rotating the one or more wheels wire ends  270  and  272  are pulled in direction  208  to tension wire  260 . Other methods for pulling wire  260  in direction  208  are known in the art and include, for example, attaching a spring mechanism and/or pneumatic tensioning device to wire ends  270  and/or  272 .  
         [0110]     In an exemplary embodiment, conductive post  290  fits into a socket  180  and conductive post  292  fits into a socket  182 . A friction fit between sockets  180  and  182  and posts  290  and  292  is provided, for example to allow easy removal of frame  200  from sockets  180  and  182  for replacement of the entire frame or for cleaning and/or repair of wire  260 . Sockets  180  and  182 , for example, are conductive and capable of transmitting power from a power source, thereby providing electrical current to heat-generating wire  260  via posts  290  and  292 , connection area  190  and  192  and tension posts  240  and  242 . It is generally envisioned that the wire, posts and strut mechanism will be replaced when the wire breaks.  
         [0111]     In an exemplary embodiment, post supports  160  are positioned against posts  240  and  242  to prevent undue motion in a direction  168 . Alternatively or additionally, posts supports  162  are positioned against posts  240  and  242  to prevent undue motion in a direction  166 . This assures that motion applied to frame  200  results in desired motion of the wire.  
         [0112]      FIG. 1B  is a schematic diagram of an alternative structure of  FIG. 1A , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, wire  260  passes through rings  150  and  152  in posts  240  and  242  prior to tensioning and attachment to the posts.  
         [0113]      FIG. 2  is a schematic diagram of heat-generating wire  260  on frame  200  of  FIG. 1A , mounted in vibrating compartment  300  that projects from vibrator posts  130  and  138 . In an exemplary embodiment, a vibrator  350  connected to posts  130  and  138 , comprises a motor  234  having an off-center weight  232  that causes vibration of vibrator  350  as motor  234  revolves in a direction  230 . Alternatively or additionally, vibrator  350  is connected to posts  130  and  138  with a transverse connector  354 .  
         [0114]     An optional cross pin  132  passes through vibrator posts  130  and  138 , allowing their movement around pin  132 . As vibrator  350  vibrates, it imparts vibration to vibrator posts  130  and  138 , thereby causing heat-generating wire  260  and/or compartment  300  to cyclically move in directions  402 .  
         [0115]     In cutting hair  404  ( FIG. 4 ), vibration of wire  260 , frame  200  and/or compartment  300  facilitates heat-generating wire  260  to make multiple passes over hair  404  while held against a given area of skin  400 . Multiple passes of wire  260  increase the cutting efficiency of heat-generating wire  260  during each period it contacts area of skin  400  (i.e., as it is moved, by the user, across the skin surface). The excursion of the wire is between 0.2 and 2 mm, optionally between 0.5 and 1 mm.  
         [0116]     In an exemplary embodiment, vibrating compartment  300 , for example comprises a snap-together structure and/or is removably attached to vibrator posts  130  and  138  so that it can be removed for cleaning and/or to allow removal of frame  200  from sockets  180  and  182 .  
         [0117]     As shown more clearly in  FIG. 3 , in an exemplary embodiment, compartment  300  comprises a row of skin-depressing elements  312 . Skin-depressing elements  312  serve to depress and/or tighten area of skin  400  ( FIG. 4 ), allowing heat-generating wire  260  to cut hair  404  without sinking into skin  400  and possibly dissipating its heat so that it cuts less efficiently and/or burns skin  400 .  
         [0118]     In an exemplary embodiment of the invention two rows of skin-depressing elements are provided on either side of heat-generating wire  260 . Rows of skin depressors are shown in the PCT publications described above, for example, posts or the like. However, the skin depressors shown in the present embodiments differ from those shown in that they comprise elongate elements that whose long axis points generally toward the wire. The present inventors have found that the elongate elements shown herein provide for smoother and more comfortable travel of the shaver along the skin. Other configurations of skin-depressing elements  312 , for example, comprising skin-depressing elements  312  at varied heights, angles, and/or planes with respect to skin  400  ( FIG. 4 ), wire  260  and/or compartment  300 , are also contemplated in exemplary embodiments of the invention. In preferred embodiments of the invention the long axis of the elongate elements is parallel to the plane of the opening (and thus of the skin) or are at a small (5, 10, 15 or 20 degrees) with respect to the plane.  
         [0119]     Alternatively or additionally, post protectors  340  and  342  extend beyond posts  240  and  242  and/or skin-tensing and depressing elements  312 . In an exemplary embodiment, post protectors  340  and  342  prevent the heat and/or vibrations from posts  240  and  242  from damaging skin  400  ( FIG. 4 ) or vice-versa, by offsetting the proximate area of skin  400  proximal away from posts  240  and  242 .  
         [0120]     In an exemplary embodiment, wheels  318 ,  320  and/or  330  are juxtaposed against strut  244  and are rotatable so that flats  388 ,  390  and  392  respectively adjust the position of strut  244 . Positional adjustments of strut  244  affect the position of wire  260  with respect to skin-depressing elements  312  and hence against area of skin  400 . By rotating wheels  318 ,  320  and/or  330 , an operator, for example, controls the closeness of heat-generating wire  260  to skin-depressing elements  312 , adjusting the position of wire  260  in a direction  248 . Alternatively or additionally, the operator adjusts the angle of wire  260  to skin-depressing elements  312 , for example in directions  284  and/or  286 .  
         [0121]     Using wheels  318 ,  320  and/or  330  an operator can optimally position and angle of the wire with respect to plane of the end of depressors  312  (or the opening, if rows of depressors are not used).  
         [0122]      FIG. 3  is cross-section of a vibrating hair cutting unit  100  having vibrating compartment  300  and a relatively non-vibrating structure  106 , with wire  260  positioned within a gap  328 . Optionally, skin-depressing elements  312  are elongate elements, positioned on one side of wire  260 , pointing toward gap  328 . As indicated above, a row of skin depressing elements  314  may comprise elongate elements on the opposite side of wire  260  gap that point toward gap  328 . Optionally, post supports  160  and  162  are positioned against posts  240  and  242  to prevent wire  260  from contacting skin depressing elements  312  and/or  314 .  
         [0123]     Structure  106 , for example, comprises a mechanical motion detector wheel  110  that rotates along a surface, for example area of skin  400  ( FIG. 4 ) and signals a controller  118  that unit  100  is moving in relation to skin  400 . In an exemplary embodiment, controller  118  turns vibrator  350  on or off in response to movement, thereby causing vibrator  350  to selectively provide vibrations.  
         [0124]     Optionally, motion detector wheel  110  switches vibrator  350  on when unit  100  moves above a minimum speed in relation to skin  400  and switches vibrator  350  off when unit  100  moves below the minimum speed. In exemplary embodiments of the invention, the minimum speed is between 0.2 to 1 cm/second optionally about 0.5 cm/sec. In some embodiments of the invention, the motion detector also indicates when the speed is above a value to cause proper hair removal. In general, this speed is above 3 cm/sec. However, this value may vary depending on the amount diameter and temperature of the wire. Alternatively or additionally, mechanical motion detector  110  comprises an optical motion detector that directs controller  118  to switch vibrator  350  on or off. Optionally, in addition to controlling vibrations, motion detector  110  functions to switch heat generated by wire  260  on or off in response to motion of unit  100  on skin  400 . Optionally, the system includes a visual indication of whether the heat and/or vibration are activated, as for example a light. In an embodiment of the invention the light is green when the velocity is in a desired range and red when it is outside this range.  
         [0125]     In an exemplary embodiment, a battery  114 , for example, provides power to vibrator  350  and/or wire  260 . Optionally, battery  114  is rechargeable and, for example, linked by a power input  116  to an external power source, for example a power converter and/or an AC electric power receptacle (not shown). Alternatively or additionally, power input  116  is directly connected to wire  260  and/or vibrator  350  without battery  114  intervening and wire  260  is powered, for example, by AC current.  
         [0126]     For clarity of presentation, in these embodiments, connections, for example between tension posts  240  and  242 , and/or vibrator  350 , and power supply  114 , are not shown. However in an exemplary embodiment, a simple arrangement of electrical connectors is used to electrify heat-generating wire  260 , vibrator  350  and/or other components associated with unit  100 .  
         [0127]     In an exemplary embodiment, cross pin  132  has end pins  134  and  136  that attach to structure  106 , allowing vibrating compartment  300  to vibrate on posts  130  and  138  in relation to structure  106 . One or more movement limiters  332  that abut post  130  and/or  138  to limit excursion of posts  130  and  138  during vibration of compartment  300  optionally project from housing  106 . In an exemplary embodiment, movement limiters  332  comprise compressible material, for example a silicone. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, frame  200  is connected directly to vibrator  350  and compartment  300  and structure  106  remain stationary while heat-generating wire  260  vibrates in relation to skin  400 .  
         [0128]     In an exemplary embodiment, compartment  300  comprises a container  140  adapted for receiving a fluid and/or solid deodorant  142 . Container  140 , for example, is joined to a passage  146  having a venturi opening  148 . Deodorant  142  atomizes as compartment  300  vibrates and is distributed through venturi opening  148  to the area around wire  260  and/or to skin  400 .  
         [0129]     Alternatively or additionally, deodorant  142  vaporizes in response to heat provided by heat-generating wire  260 . Alternatively or additionally a cover  310  is provided on passage  146  and a user-operated trigger  308  is provided on structure  106  that opens cover  310  to release vapors and/or aerosol from deodorant  142 .  
         [0130]     No matter what type of dispensation means is used, though, as deodorant  142  atomizes and/or vaporizes, it passes through communication passage  146  to the general area of heat-generating wire  260  and skin  400 , thereby masking and/or neutralizing odors generated during cutting of hair. The deodorant (which can be a perfume that masks the smell of the burnt hair), can be provided in different popular scents  
         [0131]     In still another alternative exemplary embodiment shown in  FIG. 1A , a smoke and/or odor-removing filter  280  is located over ventilation holes  380  in strut  244 . A rotatable ventilator prop blade  236  (or other pumping mechanism) rotates to cause odors to be drawn through filter  280 . A ventilator passage connecting an input of filter  280  to holes  380  may be provided more complete flow of the air containing the burnt odor to filter  280   
         [0132]     Optionally, filter  280  comprises a porous material that absorbs a deodorant, for example a liquid deodorant and an operator places liquid deodorant on at least one area of filter  280 . As odors pass over filter  280 , they are neutralized and/or replaced with a pleasant fragrance. Optionally, odor-removing filter  280  is located in or adjacent a receptacle  374  that additionally collects cut hair  460  ( FIG. 3 ).  
         [0133]     Optionally, blade  236  is activated together with the heat and/or vibration. Optionally, it is deactivated at the same time as one or both of these elements or operates for a somewhat longer time to provide additional odor removal.  
         [0134]      FIG. 4  is schematic cross-sectional view of vibrating hair cutting unit  100  cutting hair  404  that is growing from area of skin  400 , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.  
         [0135]     In an exemplary embodiment, an electrostatic outcropping  370  is incorporated into unit  100 , for example near motion detector wheel  110  and electrostatically attracts a cut hair  460  cut by heat-generating wire  260 . Electrostatic outcropping  370 , for example, Teflon will self charge, by friction with the skin, to an extent suitable for attracting the hair. Other charging means and materials can also be used.  
         [0136]     Optionally, hair collection receptacle  374  is juxtaposed near outcropping  370  to collect cut hair  460  that accumulates on outcropping  370 . Optionally, receptacle  374  has a collection aid  378 , comprising a comb or brush, that brings cut hair  460  in proximity of outcropping  370 .  
         [0137]     In an exemplary embodiment, the current through wire  260  is 0.5 A, though it may vary, depending on the dimensions and/or materials comprising wire  260 . In order to cut efficiently, wire  260 , for example, reaches a peak temperature of between 700 and 800° C., when wire  260  is held against hair  404  for 10-100 milliseconds, optionally 25-75 milliseconds.  
         [0138]     Lower temperatures, for example 500° C., can be used to cut hair  404  when wire  260  is held against hair for longer periods of times, for example, 50-150 milliseconds. Higher temperatures, for example 1000° C., can be used to cut hair  404  when wire  260  is held against hair  404  for shorter periods of time, for example, 5-15 milliseconds.  
         [0139]     Power supply  114 , for example, produces between 3 and 30 volts and between 0.030 and 5 amperes, depending on the dimensions of wire  260 .  
         [0140]     In an exemplary embodiment, wire  260  has a diameter of 0.07-0.1 millimeters. Alternatively, wire  260  has a diameter of above 0.1 millimeters, when manufactured from a less flexible and/or weaker material and below 0.07 millimeters when manufactured from a more flexible and/or stronger material.  
         [0141]     Wire  260  has a length, for example, of 25-30 millimeters though it could have a length greater than 30 millimeters or less than 25 millimeters, based upon, for example, the amount of hairs  404  that it is designed to cut on each pass.  
         [0142]     In an exemplary embodiment, wire  260  is manufactured from Kantaal D, (an alloy of nickel chromium and other metals manufactured by Kantaal Group). Alternative materials for wire  260  include Nichrome or other wire resistance materials  
         [0143]     Examples of springy electrically conductive materials used in manufacturing posts  240  and/or  242 , include spring steel (SS 302) and beryllium copper. Optionally, the posts are plated with a material such as tin, which improves conductivity to the wire and solderability of the posts.  
         [0144]     Skin-depressing elements  312  are shown as being straight comb-like pieces, though their shape could vary. Alternatively or additionally, rows of skin-depressing elements  312  with varied designs could be included in a kit provided with unit  100 . For example, rows of skin-depressing elements  312  included in the kit could be curved along their length, semi circular or even end in round balls. Use of the various designs of rows of skin depressors  312  could be based on, for example hair density and/or preference of the operator.  
         [0145]     A variety of numerical indicators have been utilized to describe the heat-generating wire. Additionally, a variety of numerical indicators have been utilized to describe structures besides heat-generating wire, including length, diameter and position of skin depressors in relation to the heat-generating wires. It should be understood that these numerical indicators could vary even further based upon a variety of engineering principles, materials, intended use and designs incorporated into the invention. The reader is further referred to the above referenced PCT applications, which contain numerous variations on many of the features described herein.  
         [0146]     It should be further understood that the individual features described herein can be used together, in the manner above, in a single shaving device. Alternatively, each of the features (or some combination of them) can be used separately, for example, by being added to one of the devices shown in the above referenced PCT publications. Furthermore, it should be understood that the examples given above are exemplary in nature and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention or the claims.  
         [0147]     The terms “include”, “comprise” and “have” and their conjugates as used herein mean “including but not necessarily limited to.”