Design of the Week: Razor Stand With Counter

This week’s selection is the practical Razor Stand With Counter by Thingiverse contributor ThatSlacker.

We don’t know exactly who ThatSlacker is, nor their origin, but this 3D model is quite interesting in several respects.

The 3D model is available for download from Thingiverse at no charge, and is comprised of four pieces that must be mated together to form the functioning unit.

The design is intended to solve the problem encountered by absent-minded shavers who, through forgetfulness, use a razor blade more than it should be used, sometimes resulting in bloody mess. Dull razors are definitely not fun.

The Stand includes a rotating counter that, presumably, the operator will shift one notch after each shave. Then after the target number of shaves has been achieved, the blade can be replaced with a freshly sharp one.

Of course, this assumes that the operator actually remembers to shift the counter, but hopefully that will occur because the razor must be re-mounted directly on the counter mechanism itself. But at least there’s something physical that can prompt action.

I’m reminded of other simple “memory aid” devices, like those “take these pills on these days” dispensers. This 3D model isn’t solving a medical dilemma, but it is solving a memory challenge that many people encounter.

On the other hand, you might suggest there is no need for such a device, because you could simply switch blades whenever it begins to feel rough, or use any number of techniques to dramatically extend the life of your blade (look up stropping if you’ve never heard of it).

You might think this model is useless, and indeed it could be useless – for you.

But that’s not the point. The point here is that someone had a problem and was able to solve that problem — in their own way, for them, and perhaps them alone — using 3D printing. This is as clear a demonstration of the power of making as any I’ve seen.

All it takes is the recognition of a problem and the energy and creativity to attempt a solution design. It might take several, or even many, tries to get something that works, but the reward is there for the effort.

And if you’re very lucky, the solution could be applicable to many other people and presto – you have the beginnings of perhaps a new business.

What problems do you have that could be solved by 3D printing? Could you design a solution?

Via Thingiverse