Device for knitting hair

Abstract

The device for knitting hair provides a multi-purpose solution that provides precision and control for the knitting of hair. The device includes an insert including a plurality of spools and a compression mechanism that allows the generation of a bundle of hair while maintaining tension control and preventing undesired pulls on the scalp. The combination of the end effector mechanism and the force sensor ensures that the individual hair strands are managed and secured during the knitting process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a hair braiding device and, more particularly, to a mechanized hair braiding for braiding natural hair, artificial hair, and combinations of both. Background Art

[0002] Braiding was invented in present-day Namibia in 3500 BC. Women would spend hours manually braiding each other's hair into intricate hairstyles. 5000 years later, nothing has changed. The process remains manual and takes hours. Globally, 8 billion hours are spent annually braiding hair, with 160 million black women regularly braiding their hair. In the United States, braiding is expensive ($200 - $400), time-consuming (5 - 8 hours), often painful, and inconsistent. If braiding became faster, 90% of people would braid their hair more often. Learning to braid well requires many years of training to master making consistent braids over multiple hours. In the long term, braiding professionals develop inflammatory hand diseases, such as arthritis, due to the fine motor movements required for braiding.

[0003] The present invention provides a handheld or mountable device that allows people to make braids on hair attached to the scalp faster and more consistently. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In some cases, the subject matter of this application may involve interrelated products, alternative solutions to particular problems, and / or multiple different uses of a single system or article.

[0005] In one aspect, a device for braiding hair is disclosed. In this aspect, the device includes a body, a nest contained within the body, and two or more spools located within the nest. The spools are configured to produce a braid when an electric motor is activated.

[0006] In another aspect, a gear system is disclosed. In this aspect, the gear system includes a drive gear connected to an electric motor. The gear system also includes two motor pinions that are indirectly connected to the drive gear through two or more pinions. The gear system also includes two concave platforms and a plurality of spools. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] Figure 1 A perspective view of an embodiment of a plate according to the present disclosure is provided.

[0008] Figure 2 A perspective view of an embodiment of a handheld device for braiding hair according to the present disclosure is provided.

[0009] Figure 3Provides a perspective view of an embodiment of a handheld device for braiding hair according to the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 4 Provides a perspective view of an embodiment of a handheld device for braiding hair according to the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 5 Provides two perspective views of an embodiment of a plate attached to a plurality of spools according to the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 6 Provides a perspective view of another embodiment of a handheld device for braiding hair according to the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 7 Provides a side perspective view and a cross-sectional perspective view of an embodiment of an electromagnetic channel circuit according to the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 8 Provides a perspective view of an embodiment of an electromagnetic magnetic plate according to the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 9 Provides a perspective view of an embodiment of a device for braiding hair according to the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 10 Provides a top perspective view of an embodiment of a device for braiding hair attached to a plurality of electric motors according to the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 11 Provides another perspective view of an embodiment of a device for braiding hair attached to a single electric motor according to the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 12 Provides a perspective view of an embodiment of a gear mechanism of a device for braiding hair according to the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 13 Provides a perspective view of an embodiment of a device for braiding hair attached to a tube system according to the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 14 Provides a perspective view of another embodiment of a tube system according to the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 15 Provides a perspective view of an embodiment of a device for braiding hair and a hair extrusion mechanism according to the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 16 Provides a cross-sectional perspective view of an embodiment of an end effector mechanism according to the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 17Provides a cross-sectional perspective view of another embodiment of an end effector mechanism in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 18 Provides a cross-sectional perspective view of an embodiment of a spool having a fan end effector mechanism in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 19 Provides a cross-sectional perspective view of yet another embodiment of an end effector mechanism in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 20 Provides a perspective view of an embodiment of a device for braiding hair mounted to a bracket in accordance with the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of the presently preferred embodiments of the invention and is not intended to represent the only forms in which the invention may be constructed and / or utilized. The description sets forth the functions and / or steps of constructing and operating the invention in connection with the illustrated embodiments.

[0028] Devices for braiding hair can be envisioned herein. The device can have a first spool or arm having an attachment means for gripping a bundle of hair, a ribbon, or an extension, and a second spool or arm having an attachment means for gripping a bundle of hair, a ribbon, or an extension. In additional embodiments, the device can have a third or more spools or arms having an attachment means for gripping a bundle of hair, a ribbon, or an extension. These spools can be placed in a channel, on top of the channel, or within the channel, which creates a loop that allows the spools to move completely through it. In some embodiments, the loop can also create an 8-shaped figure or consist of two or more intersecting loops, thereby allowing the spools to move through the loop in a continuous motion. The channel loop can also accommodate multiple spools and can allow the spools to travel in different or opposite directions.

[0029] In certain embodiments, the spools are advanced through the braiding channel by any of the following mechanisms:

[0030] a. Mechanical interaction between gears or motors for driving.

[0031] b. Electromagnetic forces and induction for generating forces and accelerations on charge carriers in the system to direct them through the channel or to control the vertical position of the spools within the channel. In such embodiments, the movement and position of the spools can be controlled by one or more electromagnets, which can control the movement of the spool or spools through the channel. In certain embodiments, the spools can be "levitated" so as not to contact the channel walls during operation.

[0032] c. Air in a jet or steady flow or a combination thereof.

[0033] d. Liquid propulsion.

[0034] e. A track system similar to a train track that guides the spool along the channel.

[0035] f. Spring-powered propulsion.

[0036] g. A powered wheel that pushes the spool along the braiding channel.

[0037] In some embodiments, the spool may consist of a cylindrical member that may be attached to a flexible stranded material such as human hair, synthetic hair or extensions, ribbons, yarns or threads. The spool may be defined as a member that attaches to and secures the hair or uses other means to drive the hair in a specific motion.

[0038] In some embodiments, the braiding machine channel (or "loop") and / or the spool may include:

[0039] a. Sensors for detecting the orientation and position of all axes of the spool.

[0040] b. Sensors for detecting the direction in which the spool travels.

[0041] c. Mechanisms for controlling the orientation angle of the hair and the spool to create tension or a specific appearance.

[0042] d. Sensors for detecting the tension applied by the spool to the hair or the tension on the spool itself, and mechanisms for creating uniform tension in the braid.

[0043] e. Sensors for detecting the speed at which the spool travels.

[0044] f. Various sensors that collect inputs that allow for braiding.

[0045] g. Mechanisms or algorithms that use the inputs from the sensors to control and execute the braiding process through control factors such as: the speed of movement of the spool; the direction of movement of the spool and the hair; the vertical position of the spool; the orientation angle of the spool; the tension on the hair strands attached to the spool or the tension on the spool itself, and other factors, to provide a consistent speed and vertical height and smooth movement to ensure a uniform and tight braid, or a desired appearance and feel of the braid.

[0046] h. Mechanisms or algorithms for releasing the hair or extensions when the braiding machine is braiding by rotating the spool or releasing a spring-based clip on the hair.

[0047] i. Mechanisms for translating multiple strands of hair downward when the braiding machine is performing braiding by retracting a spring or a pulley control system on the braid.

[0048] j. A sensor (such as a Newton meter or a dynamometer) for detecting the magnitude of a force.

[0049] k. A sensor attached to the top of the device to observe the previously woven part of the fabric or the fabric in the vicinity, and to evaluate the type, thickness, and tightness of the fabric in order to reproduce the observed fabric.

[0050] In some embodiments, the sensor can use detection methods such as visual recognition or infrared laser reflection to illustrate the fabric or infrared rays. The sensor can be used to track any of the following:

[0051] a. A fabric with uniform length,

[0052] b. Detecting when approaching the end of the fabric to stop, or

[0053] c. Detecting when approaching the end of the fabric to perform a different weaving motion.

[0054] In many cases, continuously applying tension to the fabric and generating tension in the fabric is important if not critical. In various embodiments, tension can be generated in the fabric in one or more of the following ways:

[0055] a. Motor push,

[0056] b. Actuating the motor,

[0057] c. Spring,

[0058] d. Flexor, or

[0059] e. Adaptable control set by the user or the control system to achieve the desired type.

[0060] In the case of a weaving mechanism driven by electromagnetism, the present invention may further include: a guiding magnet for ensuring that the spool remains on the track and / or a guiding magnet for ensuring that the spool maintains a consistent vertical position to ensure uniform weaving.

[0061] Any algorithm used by the device can be cloud-based, where the control is driven by cloud-based decisions, where the input from the sensors is compiled from multiple devices or individual weaving machines and sent to a remote server, or improved control is provided to a specific individual weaving machine, or compiled and distributed to all machines.

[0062] In some embodiments, the device incorporates an advanced system that recognizes the completion of a tangle or braid and safely releases the hair. This release can be achieved by opening the clamp or ejecting the hair from the device. In some embodiments, the system can utilize mechanical means (such as force-limiting structures, including but not limited to springs or hinges) to release or eject the hair. Excessive force on the hair bundle may cause removal and prevent hair damage. In certain embodiments, the system can utilize electrical means (such as inertial sensors) to detect sudden device movement (e.g., impact or drop). The release mechanism can include magnetic deactivation, screw drive, spring-loaded, or electromagnetic drive actions.

[0063] To achieve a consistent, tight, and uniform braid, some embodiments of the device can coordinate the speed at which the hair bundle rotates with the speed at which the braid presses against the scalp. For example, in one embodiment, the control system can synchronize the real-time data of the hair bundle rotation with the extrusion speed, braid tension, hair bundle tension, and the position of the braid node (i.e., the braiding point). For a handheld embodiment of the device, the user-initiated pulling speed can be linked to the rotation speed of the braid to ensure the desired braid tension. Alternatively, the force applied by the user can determine the rotation speed, where a greater force corresponds to a faster rotation.

[0064] For a hands-free or mounted embodiment of the device, the retraction or pulling speed can be associated with the braid rotation to maintain the desired force, position, speed, or braid thickness. The control system can operate by one of several methods:

[0065] a. The braid thickness can be measured using mechanical or electrical sensors that measure the angle of the formed braid and calculate its thickness. This measurement can inform the ratio between the retraction or extrusion speed and the braid rotation speed.

[0066] b. The position of the braiding point can be monitored by sensors such as optical sensors, ultrasonic sensors, computer vision, infrared (“IR”) sensors, and motion sensors. The control system can adjust the braid rotation speed to maintain the braiding point for high-quality results.

[0067] c. The braid tension can be evaluated by mechanical or electrical sensors (such as strain gauges, load cells, force sensors, and piezoresistive sensors). The control system can adjust the braid tension by controlling the retraction or extrusion rate and the speed of the hair bundle rotation or the actions used to produce the braid.

[0068] In addition to sensors integrated into key components such as clamps and spools, a device for braiding hair can also include sensors in various other areas of the device to enhance its functionality and performance. For example, these auxiliary sensors can be strategically positioned above channels or within squeezing mechanisms. By monitoring parameters such as the position of the braiding point, the thickness of the braid, or the tension in the hair strands, these sensors contribute to the precision and control of the braiding process. These real-time data inputs allow the device to make immediate adjustments, ensuring that each braid is always tight and uniform while preventing tangling and excessive force.

[0069] Various embodiments and features of the present disclosure are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0070] Now turning to Figure 1 , which provides a perspective view of one embodiment of plate 1 for attachment to a device for braiding hair, which device can be handheld or mounted. For example, in Figure 2 、 Figure 3 and Figure 4 a handheld embodiment of device 2 is depicted. In this embodiment, device 2 generally includes a handle 3 connected to a housing 4. Plate 1 is connected to the exterior of housing 4 and is also attached to a plurality of spools 5.

[0071] Housing 4 contains the electrical and mechanical components necessary to allow spools 5 to rotate on plate 1, such as, for example, a power source, control circuitry, motor, gears, shafts, etc. One or more of these components can be activated when a switch or button 6 is pressed. In Figure 2 、 Figure 3 and Figure 4 the depicted embodiment, button 6 is attached to handle 3. This ergonomic placement allows the user to easily control the braiding operation with a simple press of the button, starting or stopping the rotation of spools 5 as needed.

[0072] Referring to Figure 5 , the hair braiding process can be initiated by wrapping a bundle of hair 7 around a single spool 5. This step can be repeated for one or more spools 5 according to the desired braiding pattern. Each spool 5 is designed to firmly maintain and hold the tension of hair bundle 7, ensuring an accurate and controlled braiding operation.

[0073] As Figure 6 shown, once multiple bundles of hair 7 are mounted on each of spools 5, device 2 can be activated to begin the braiding process. This activation causes coordinated movement within the device, resulting in spools 5 rotating around a channel loop 8. Channel loop 8 is defined in plate 1 and serves as a guiding mechanism for spools 5.

[0074] Figure 7Provide both a side view and a cross-sectional perspective view of the electromagnetic channel loop 8 and the plate 1 respectively. In this embodiment, the spool 5 attached to the hair bundle 7 is magnetized, and the bottom of the channel loop 8 has the same polarity as the bottom member 9 of the spool 5. This causes the spool 5 to levitate and not touch the inner wall of the channel loop 8.

[0075] The magnetic repulsion effect that causes the spool 5 to levitate within the channel loop 8 can also be used as a driving mechanism to cause the spool 5 to rotate. For example, as Figure 8 shown, each of the spools 5 is magnetized, having both a north pole and a south pole. The plate 1 is electromagnetized, where each part of the plate includes both a north pole and a south pole. When activated, the polarities of the respective parts of the spool 5 and the electromagnetic plate 1 will cause the magnetic spools to rotate around the channel loop 8. This interaction is based on polarity. When the same and opposite magnetic forces repel and attract, the rotational movement of the spool 5 is produced.

[0076] Now refer to Figure 9 , which provides a perspective view of the device 10 for braiding hair 7. In this embodiment, the device 10 includes a body 11, and the body 11 contains an insert kit 12, and the insert kit 12 can be in a curved or approximately spherical shape. The spools 5 are contained within the insert kit 12, and each of the spools 5 includes a clamp 13 for gripping the ends of the hair bundle 7. The clamp 13 ensures that the hair 7 remains taut and in place, laying the foundation for precise and controlled braiding.

[0077] The combination of the insert kit 12 and the clamp 13 attached to the spool 5 allows all the hair bundles to remain approximately equidistant and close to the nodes, typically about one centimeter (1 cm) from the starting point. In particular, the device 10 shown in Figure 9 does not include angled clamps or re-gripping members (i.e., device components configured to re-incorporate loose hair), to simplify the braiding process and prevent double braiding for hair up to approximately twenty-four centimeters (24 cm) in length.

[0078] The spool 5 rotates according to the movement of the motor pinion 14 located between the body 11 and the insert kit 12. These gears 14 serve as the driving force behind the rotation of the spool 5 to ensure that the hair bundles are effectively braided into a braid. This precise rotation not only enhances the overall braiding quality but also reduces flyaways (i.e., loose multi-strand hairs that protrude from the complete braid), resulting in a neater and more refined final appearance.

[0079] As Figure 10As depicted in the top view of the apparatus 10 shown, the insert kit 12 precisely accommodates three spools: a first spool 5a, a second spool 5b, and a third spool 5c. Additionally, two motor pinions are at the core of the apparatus: a first motor pinion 14a and a second motor pinion 14b. The first motor pinion 14a is connected to a first electric motor 15a, while the second motor pinion 14b is coupled to a second electric motor 15b.

[0080] Before activating the electric motors 15a and 15b, the spools are positioned in a specific arrangement. The first spool 5a is located on the left side, the second spool 5b is on the right side, and the third spool 5c is at the center of the insert kit 12. The first electric motor 15a and the second electric motor 15b are configured or operable to be activated alternately in sequence, causing the first motor pinion 14a and the second motor pinion 14b to rotate successively at different times. The alternating rotation of these motor pinions 14a and 14b serves as the driving force behind the overall rotation of the spools 5a, 5b, and 5c.

[0081] The rotation of the first motor pinion 14a causes the clockwise movement of the first concave platform 16a, which causes the first spool 5a and the third spool 5c to exchange positions. In other words, the first spool 5a moves to the center while the third spool 5c is repositioned to the left side of the insert kit 12. After this, the rotation of the second motor pinion 14b causes the counterclockwise movement of the second concave platform 16b. This causes the second spool 5b and the first spool 5a to exchange positions, where the first spool 5a is now in the right position and the second spool 5a is at the center of the insert kit 12. This sequential rotation process continues until the electric motors 15a and 15b are deactivated, typically after a complete braid is formed by the clamp 13, which also rotates together with the spools 5a, 5b, and 5c.

[0082] Now turning to Figure 11 which provides another perspective view of the apparatus 10 for braiding hair attached to the outer gear housing 17. The outer gear housing 17 is connected to the body 11 and includes a drive gear 18. The drive gear 18 is connected to a single electric motor 19, which, when activated, causes the clockwise rotation of the drive gear 18. The outer gear housing 17 houses one or more additional pinions or flexible shafts that indirectly connect the drive gear 18 to the first and second motor pinions 14a, 14b, which helps to rotate the first and second concave platforms 16a, 16b and the spools 5a, 5b, and 5c according to the alternating sequence rotation mechanism described above.

[0083] Figure 12Provides a perspective view of an embodiment of a gear system 20 that indirectly connects a drive gear 18 to first and second motor pinions 14a, 14b. The illustration also provides a perspective view of an apparatus that allows spools 5a, 5b, and 5c to continuously exchange positions as the first and second concave platforms 16a, 16b rotate in an alternating sequence.

[0084] As shown, each of the spools 5a, 5b, and 5c has an external thread with a plurality of teeth 21a, 21b, and 21c. In other words, the first spool 5a has a first plurality of teeth 21a, the second spool 5b has a second plurality of teeth 21b, and the third spool 5c has a third plurality of teeth 21c. Similarly, both the first and second concave platforms 16a, 16b include a plurality of teeth and also define a plurality of internal gaps configured to engage with the plurality of teeth 21a, 21b, and 21c on each of the spools 5a, 5b, and 5c.

[0085] Each of the plurality of teeth on the spools 5a, 5b, and 5c and the concave platforms 16a and 16b is also configured to engage with the teeth on the motor pinions 14a, 14b. The above series of engaging teeth allows for an alternating sequence of rotation of the motor pinions 14a, 14b, resulting in an alternating sequence of rotation of the concave platforms 16a, 16b, which in turn causes the spools 5a, 5b, and 5c to continuously exchange positions when the electric motor 19 is activated.

[0086] When activated, the electric motor 19 causes a clockwise rotation of the drive gear 18, which causes the electric motor pinions 14a, 14b to rotate in an alternating sequence through a series of additional interconnecting pinions. In this embodiment, still referring to Figure 12 , there are exactly three additional pinions that directly or indirectly engage with the drive gear 18: a first auxiliary motor pinion 22, a second auxiliary motor pinion 23, and a drive pinion 24.

[0087] The teeth of the drive gear 18 are configured to alternately and sequentially engage the first auxiliary motor pinion 22 and the drive pinion 24. The drive gear 18 does not include teeth on a portion of its circumference or outer surface, which allows the drive gear 18 to engage only half of the gear system 20 at a time. When rotating, the toothed portion of the drive gear 18 engages the drive pinion 24, which causes both the pinion 24 and the second auxiliary motor pinion 23 to rotate in opposite directions. This rotation causes a clockwise rotation of the second motor pinion 14b, causing the second concave platform 16b to rotate in a counterclockwise manner.

[0088] After this, the toothed portion of the drive gear 18 engages the first auxiliary motor pinion 22, which causes the pinion 22 to rotate, causing counterclockwise rotation of the first motor pinion 14a. At the same time, the toothless portion of the drive gear 18 contacts the top or top surface of the teeth of the drive pinion 24, which does not cause the drive pinion 24 to rotate. Subsequently, the counterclockwise rotation of the first motor pinion 14a causes clockwise rotation of the first concave platform 16a, while the second concave platform 16b does not rotate. This alternating rotation of the gear system 20 causes the spools 5a, 5b, and 5c to continuously exchange positions until the motor 19 is deactivated.

[0089] Figure 13 A perspective view of one embodiment of a tube system 25 attached to the apparatus 10 for braiding hair is provided. The tube system 25 includes a first tube branch 25a, a second tube branch 25b, and a central tube main body 25c. The first tube branch 25a and the second tube branch 25b contact the bottom of the first spool 5a and the bottom of the second spool 5b, respectively. Similarly, the central tube main body 25c contacts the bottom of the third spool 5c. A vacuum can be connected to the bottom of the tube main body 25c to create suction at the top of each of the spools 5a, 5b, and 5c. The suction transmitted through the tubes helps load the hair bundles into the spools.

[0090] Once the hair bundles are loaded into the spools, the tube system 25 can remain in contact with the spools or can also be disconnected from the apparatus 10. If the tube system 25 is removed from the apparatus 10 and the hair bundles are allowed to hang freely during the braiding process, the loose hair bundles can form a braid below or outside the apparatus 10, potentially forming a double braid that may prevent the braiding from continuing or a lock that causes knotting within the spools.

[0091] One mechanism that can address the above issues is a tube system 25 having a helical shape, as Figure 14 shown. This shape is used to draw the hair 7 through the tube system 25 by vacuum suction or to pull the hair 7 using a flexible hook. The hair 7 follows the contour of the helical tube. The helical shape of the tube reduces the length of the tube required to store a given length of hair by a factor of 2 - 10. It also prevents the hair from tangling or deforming on itself, as it prevents multiple hair bundles from folding back or rubbing against each other. In one embodiment, the bottom or distal end of each of the spools is connected to or defines a helical tube. It should be clearly understood that the above helical tube can be continuous or curved, or can include a series of angular bends or turns, where the cross-sectional profile can be circular (as shown) or take another geometric form, such as a curved rectangle or polygon.

[0092] For example, as Figure 15As shown, each of the spools 5a, 5b, and 5c has a top or proximal end located within the device 10 and a bottom or distal end 26 that extends outside the device 10. In this embodiment, the distal end 26 of each of the spools 5a, 5b, and 5c defines a straight tube. A microcontroller unit including a circuit board 27 and a processor 28 is connected to the distal end 26 of each of the spools 5a, 5b, and 5c together with a motor driver 29.

[0093] The above electrical components, which may also include a battery, form a mechanism for actuating one or more end effectors located within each of the spool tubes. According to an embodiment, the end effector may be located within the proximal or distal end of the tube defined by the spool. The end effector is configured to grip a hair bundle 7 located within each of the spool tubes, while the drive gears 18, additional pinions or flexible shafts housed within the outer gear housing 17, and the motor pinions 14a, 14b together cause the spools 5a, 5b, and 5c to continuously exchange positions, forming a braid 33 upon activation of the motor 19.

[0094] An extrusion mechanism 30 located above the device 10 pulls the braid 33 upward as it is formed. This creates tension in the braid 33 but prevents tension on the scalp. The extrusion mechanism includes two spring-loaded wheels 31 and a motorized gear system 32 including a series of gears connected to an electric motor. When activated, the electric motor of the motorized gear system 32 causes the spring-loaded wheels 31 to rotate to pull the braid 33 away from the device 10. The extrusion mechanism 30 may be mounted on a track or bracket above the device 10.

[0095] Figure 16 A cross-sectional perspective view of an embodiment of an end effector mechanism 34 located within the tube defined by the spool 5 is provided. In this embodiment, the end effector mechanism 34 includes a first plate 34a and a second plate 34b connected to the inner wall of the spool 5. The first and second plates 34a, 34b each have a clamp 13 at their proximal ends for gripping a hair bundle entering the tube defined by the spool 5. An electric motor 35 is mechanically connected to the end effector mechanism through an actuator 35a. The first and second plates 34a, 34b are held in the open position by pressing a spring 36 against both the inner wall of the tube defined by the spool 5 and the distal ends of the plates 34a, 34b. When the electric motor 35 is activated, the actuator 35a causes the spring 36 to compress, which in turn causes the clamp 13 to transition to the closed position, applying a force to any hair within the tube. Deactivation of the motor 35 causes the clamp 13 to transition back to the open position, releasing any hair within the tube.

[0096] Figure 17Provided is a cross-sectional perspective view of another embodiment of an end effector mechanism 37 located within a tube defined by a spool 5. The mechanism 37 includes an air pump 38 having an actuator tube 38a connected to a secondary tube 39. The secondary tube terminates at one or more holes 40 defined within the inner wall of a primary tube defined by the spool 5. When activated, the air pump 38 is operable to supply air through the actuator tube 38a to the secondary tube 39.

[0097] As Figure 18 shown, the secondary tube 39 is defined between the inner and outer walls of a primary tube defined by the spool 5 and extends therethrough. Air 41 supplied by the air pump 38 enters the distal end of the secondary tube 39 and exits through the holes 40. When the air 41 exits through the holes 40, the configuration or shape of the holes 40 causes the air 41 to travel downward (i.e., return toward the distal end of the secondary tube 39), which effectively pulls the hair bundle 7 within the primary tube in the same direction. When the hair 7 is being braided, the air pump 38 can continuously supply air 41.

[0098] Figure 19 Provided is a cross-sectional perspective view of yet another embodiment of an end effector mechanism 42. In this embodiment, the end effector mechanism 42 includes a first portion 42a and a second portion 42b attached to the inner wall of the spool 5. The first portion 42a can be made of a standard plastic material such as standard polylactic acid (“PLA”) plastic. The second portion 42b can be made of a flexible plastic material such as flexible PLA plastic. Thus, in comparison, the second portion 42b will be more flexible than the first portion 42a. A solenoid or electric motor 43 having a linear actuator 43a is connected to the first portion 42a, and when the solenoid is activated, the first portion 42a is configured to cause the second portion 42b to close and clamp any hair located within the tube defined by the spool 5.

[0099] It should be clearly understood that the above-described end effector mechanisms 34, 37, and 42 can be located at any position within the tube defined by the spool, including the distal end. It should also be understood that any one of the end effector mechanisms 34, 37, and 42 can include one or more mechanical or electrical sensors to determine and monitor the tension on the braid or the forces acting on the individual hair bundles that produce the braid.

[0100] Now turning to Figure 20, which provides a perspective view of an apparatus 10 for braiding hair mounted on a track 44 attached to a bracket 45. The track 44 can be configured to adjust the height, angle, or position of the body during the hair braiding process, and in one embodiment, the adjustable track can be replaced by one or more motorized arms. The squeezing mechanism 30 is connected to the top of the bracket 45 above the apparatus. As previously described, the squeezing mechanism 30 is configured to pull the braid 33 upward when the braid 33 is formed by the apparatus 10, creating tension in the braid 33 without applying tension to the scalp. In this embodiment, the apparatus 10 is connected to a housing 46 that contains mechanical and electrical components located outside the apparatus 10 that are necessary for performing the hair braiding process as described herein.

[0101] Although several variations of the present invention have been illustrated by way of example in the preferred or specific embodiments, it will be apparent that additional embodiments can be extended within the spirit and scope of the present invention or its inventive concept. However, it should be clearly understood that such modifications and adaptations are within the spirit and scope of the present invention and include, but are not limited to, the following appended claims as set forth.

Claims

1. A device for braiding hair, comprising: A main body; A nesting kit contained within the main body; And A plurality of spools located inside the nesting kit; Wherein, the plurality of spools are configured to produce a braid when an electric motor is activated.

2. The device for braiding hair according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of spools include a first spool, a second spool, and a third spool.

3. The device for braiding hair according to claim 1, further comprising an end effector mechanism located within each of the plurality of spools.

4. The device for braiding hair according to claim 1, further comprising a sensor configured to monitor the tension on the braid.

5. The device for braiding hair according to claim 1, further comprising a tube system attached to each of the plurality of spools.

6. The device for braiding hair according to claim 5, wherein, The tube system includes a helical tube.

7. The device for braiding hair according to claim 1, further comprising a housing connected to the main body.

8. The apparatus for braiding hair according to claim 1, further comprising a vacuum connected to at least one of each of the plurality of spools or a plurality of tubes connected to the plurality of spools, wherein, The vacuum is configured to generate suction within each of the plurality of spools for loading a plurality of hair strands.

9. The device for braiding hair according to claim 1, further comprising a track connected to a bracket.

10. The device for braiding hair according to claim 12, wherein, The main body is mounted on the track.

11. The device for braiding hair according to claim 12, wherein, The track is configured to change the position of the main body.

12. A gear system, comprising: A drive gear connected to an electric motor; A first motor pinion and a second motor pinion; A plurality of pinions that indirectly connect the drive gear to the first motor pinion and the second motor pinion; And A first concave platform, a second concave platform, and a plurality of spools.

13. The gear system according to claim 12, wherein, The plurality of pinions include a drive pinion, a first auxiliary motor pinion, and a second auxiliary motor pinion.

14. The gear system according to claim 12, wherein, Activation of the electric motor causes the drive gear to rotate.

15. The gear system according to claim 14, wherein, Rotation of the drive gear causes the first concave platform and the second concave platform to rotate alternately in sequence.

16. The gear system according to claim 14, wherein, Rotation of the drive gear causes each of the plurality of spools to continuously exchange positions.

17. The gear system according to claim 12, wherein, Each of the plurality of spools includes an end effector configured to grip a bundle of hair.

18. An extrusion mechanism, comprising: Two spring-loaded wheels; And An electric motor; Wherein, the two spring-loaded wheels are configured to rotate in response to activation of the electric motor.

19. The extrusion mechanism according to claim 18 further includes a bracket, wherein, The extrusion mechanism is attached to the top of a bracket.

20. The extrusion mechanism according to claim 18, wherein, The extrusion mechanism is configured to pull the braid upward when forming the braid.

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