Rotary bristle apparatus and method of use

Abstract

A material treatment device for treating elongate elements, such as hairs, comprises a plurality of rods arranged circumferentially as part of a rod cylinder and a handle connected to the rod cylinder for rotatably supporting the rod cylinder. A mechanism is provided for rotating the rod cylinder in a first direction and for rotating each rod independently of the rod cylinder or allowing each rod to rotate independently of the rod cylinder in a second direction opposite to the first direction. By this rotation, material contacted by the rods during use of the hair treatment device rolls away from the contacted rods in the second direction.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention addresses the problems that exist in all round brushes currently used for hair styling, and most importantly, the problems that exist in electrically powered, rotating round brushes; the design of which allows hair to become entangled on the brush. BACKGROUND

[0002] Hair styling round brushes, both rotating and non-rotating, come in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials. These are typically used with a hair dryer held in one hand and the brush in the other, the dryer and brush being passed through the hair together.

[0003] A more complex version of the above brush type includes a hair dryer unit within the brush handle portion. A hollow, perforated round brush barrel is secured to the handle portion. Hot air from the hair dryer enters the hollow barrel and is expelled through the perforations, thereby drying the hair that is engaged with the bristles of the brush barrel.

[0004] Another version of the device is the "rotating" round brush hair dryer. The hollow round brush barrel is not secured to the hair dryer handle portion, but is driven by an electric motor and rotates on the handle while hot air is supplied to the barrel. This type of device is currently available, but not without the inherent risk of tangling that such a device necessarily has.

[0005] The present invention provides a solution to the above-mentioned primary problems by describing embodiments of the invention in terms of mechanical devices that can be used in a rotating round brush to facilitate the continuous engagement and release of hair from the rotating brush. These "continuous engagement and release" mechanical devices are applicable to new types of bristle mechanisms as well as new types of barrel mechanisms. In addition, the barrel mechanisms are described herein as possessing a new type of hair styling feature that is embodied in themselves and does not contain a bristle feature. This embodiment can be considered a unique type of curling iron. SUMMARY

[0006] The present invention is an improvement over prior art brushes for the handling of materials including animal and human hair as a material handling device.

[0007] In one embodiment, the material handling device has a plurality of circumferentially arranged rods as part of a rod barrel. A handle is attached to the rod barrel for rotatably supporting the rod barrel. A mechanism is provided for rotating the rod barrel in a first direction, and a mechanism is also provided for rotating each rod independently of the rod barrel or allowing each rod to rotate independently of the rod barrel in a second direction opposite the first direction. Materials contacted by the rods during use of the hair handling device roll away from the contacted rods in the second direction.

[0008] The rods can be arranged in one of a square tubular shape, a rectangular tubular shape, a triangular tubular shape, an elliptical tubular shape, a crescent tubular shape, or a cylindrical tubular shape.

[0009] The apparatus can also be configured to deliver heated or cooled air to one or more of the plurality of rods. The surface of the one or more rods can have a texture, such as a helical texture or a dotted texture. The rods can also be perforated to allow hot, cold, or ambient air to contact the material being engaged.

[0010] Embodiments with a drum can also include a cage attached to the distal end of each rod of the plurality of rods that prevents material from entering between the plurality of rods from the distal end of the plurality of rods. The cage can include a plurality of legs, one end of each leg rotatably attached to the distal end of each rod, and the other end of the plurality of legs connected together to prevent material from entering between the plurality of rods from the distal end of the plurality of rods.

[0011] The invention also includes a method of engaging any material, such as animal or human hair, using the above-described material processing apparatus, wherein the rotating rod drum and rods allow the rods to engage the material.

[0012] Another apparatus of the invention combines the above-described rod and brush drum features with bristles. The rotating bristle apparatus includes a bristle assembly including a plurality of aligned bristle sets, each bristle set mounted to a pair of bristle flanges configured to allow the bristle set to move relative to the bristle flanges. A plurality of rods are provided, opposite ends of the rods being secured between the bristle flanges, each rod being positioned between adjacent channels so as to create a space between adjacent rods for bristle movement, the surface of the rods forming a portion of the brush drum.

[0013] One of two mechanisms can be used with the rotating bristle apparatus. One mechanism rotates the brush drum and the bristle assembly such that in one mode the brush drum is rotated in a first direction, all of the bristles extending through the space created by the adjacent rods and beyond the surface of the rods; in a second mode the brush drum is rotated, above a portion of the rotating brush drum the bristles continuously extend through and beyond the surface of the rods while the bristles on other portions of the rotating brush drum are continuously retracted; in a third mode the bristles are fully retracted such that the bristles do not extend from the rotating brush drum during its rotation.

[0014] The other mechanism rotates the brush drum and the bristle assembly such that the brush drum is rotated with some of the bristles extending through and beyond the surface of the rods above a portion of the rotating brush drum while other bristles on other portions of the rotating brush drum are retracted.

[0015] The bristle sets can include a plurality of bristles or a plurality of bristle bundles.

[0016] The rods of any of the embodiments disclosed above can be coated with a non-stick coating, such as PTFE, and any of the embodiments above use two or more rods, for example, two, four, six, or twelve rods.

[0017] The bristle assembly can be further configured such that each bristle pack is mounted to the pair of bristle flanges, each bristle flange having a channel therein to allow the bristle pack to move along the channel, the bristle flanges being mounted to the spine.

[0018] A third material handling apparatus is provided that includes a plurality of rods and a sliding clamp for pinching purposes. The material handling apparatus includes a plurality of rods arranged circumferentially as part of a rod barrel and a handle attached to the rod barrel to rotatably support the rod barrel. A mechanism is provided for rotating the rod barrel in a first direction and a mechanism is provided for rotating each rod independently of the rod barrel or allowing each rod to rotate independently of the rod barrel in a second direction opposite the first direction, i.e., allowing each rod to freely rotate during rotation of the rod barrel. A sliding clamp is provided that is movably mounted on the handle and moves between an extended position and a retracted position. In the extended position, at least a portion of the sliding clamp is positioned adjacent a surface of one of the plurality of rods. A mechanism is provided for pivoting the sliding clamp relative to the surface between an open position that allows material to be pinched between the portion of the sliding clamp and the surface and a closed position that pinches the pinched material against the surface. A mechanism is also provided to prevent each of the plurality of rods from rotating as the sliding clamp moves to the extended position while the rod barrel and the sliding clamp can rotate to wind material on the plurality of rods and allow each of the plurality of rods to rotate with the material wound on the plurality of rods and rotate with the rod barrel as the sliding clamp moves to the retracted position.

[0019] The present invention also includes a method of engaging material using an apparatus that employs a sliding clamp. The method includes disengaging the plurality of rods from the rod barrel, thereby moving the sliding clamp to the extended position. The sliding clamp is moved to the open position to enable at least some material to be positioned between the sliding clamp and the surface of the rod. The sliding clamp is moved to the closed position to pinch the material. The rod barrel and the sliding clamp are then rotated to wind the material on the plurality of rods. After rotation, the sliding clamp is moved to the retracted position and the plurality of rods and the rod barrel are rotated relative to the wound material. The rods are optionally cooled or heated.

[0020] Yet another embodiment uses only bristles for material handling. A rotating bristle apparatus includes a bristle assembly that includes a plurality of aligned bristle packs, each bristle pack mounted to a pair of bristle flanges, the bristle flanges configured to allow the bristle pack to move relative to the bristle flanges. A brush barrel is provided having perforations therein, each perforation designed to receive one bristle of the bristles in the bristle pack.

[0021] Two mechanisms can be used to move the brush cylinder and bristle assembly. One mechanism moves the brush cylinder and bristle assembly such that in a first mode, the brush cylinder rotates with all the bristles extending from the perforations; in a second mode, the brush cylinder rotates with the bristles continuously extending over one side of the rotating brush cylinder while the bristles on the other side of the rotating brush cylinder are continuously retracted; in a third mode, the bristles are fully retracted such that no bristles extend from the rotating brush cylinder during rotation of the rotating brush cylinder. Another mechanism can rotate the brush cylinder and bristle assembly such that the brush cylinder rotates with some of the bristles extending through and beyond the surface of the rod on one portion of the rotating brush cylinder while other bristles on other portions of the rotating brush cylinder are retracted.

[0022] The rotary bristle device using a brush cylinder and bristles can be used in a method of engaging a material, such as a human or animal's hair. The method includes rotating the spine so that the bristles can engage the material.

[0023] Another embodiment of the present invention is a rotary bristle device with eccentric rotation. The device includes a bristle assembly including a plurality of aligned bristle sets, each bristle set mounted to a spine. A tube having perforations therein is provided, each perforation designed to receive one bristle of a bristle set. Guide surfaces are arranged on an inner periphery of the tube, each guide surface forming a channel to guide a bristle into and out of a perforation. A plurality of rolling surfaces are arranged on the inner periphery of the tube. The spine is mounted within the tube with perforations such that the rolling surfaces rest on a portion of the spine and the axis of the spine is offset from the axis of the tube with perforations, the bristles extending into the channels formed by the guide surfaces, wherein rotation of the spine causes the rolling surfaces of the tube with perforations to roll on the spine and eccentrically rotate the tube with perforations relative to the spine, the eccentric rotation of the tube with perforations causing the bristles to extend and retract from the perforations in the tube with perforations during rotation of the spine.

[0024] The eccentric rotary bristle device can include a plurality of elongated triangular bristle guides, each bristle guide arranged on the inner periphery of the tube with perforations, adjacent bristle guides forming a channel, and a plurality of spaced apart spacer rings arranged longitudinally along the tube with perforations inside the bristle guides, the spacer rings having rolling surfaces. The housing can be a one-piece structure having the guide surfaces and the rolling surfaces as part thereof, and the spine can include a handle for rotation of the spine. The eccentric rotary bristle device can include an electric motor assembly including a cylindrical or rectangular shaped housing and an electric motor within the housing, the electric motor connected to the spine to rotate the same.

[0025] The eccentric rotary bristle device can be used in a method of engaging a material, such as a human or animal's hair. The method requires rotating the spine so that the bristles can engage the material.

[0026] For embodiments using a bristle assembly in which the bristle sets are allowed to move relative to the bristle flanges, one embodiment disclosed herein uses channels in the bristle flanges to move the bristles in a radial manner. However, other ways of moving the bristle sets relative to the bristle flanges can also be employed so that the bristles can be extended from the brush barrel for material engagement. One alternative is to configure the device to move the bristle sets in a longitudinal motion and then in an angled motion so that the bristles can be extended from the brush barrel in a controlled manner for material engagement. Of course, other configurations can be employed as long as they move the bristles into and out of the brush barrel as shown and described in the disclosed embodiments.

[0027] While the illustrated rods are geared or free to rotate, they can be fixed with only the rod barrel rotating. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0028] Figure 1 is a perspective side view of a standard type circular brush presented as a visual reference point for the description of the invention as a whole.

[0029] Figure 2A is a front view, while Figures 2B-2D is a perspective view of the brush of the invention, together illustrating the conversion of the bristled ridge 1a centered within the perforated tube 1b type circular brush barrel to the bristled ridge 1a' off-centered within the perforated tube 1b" type circular brush barrel. Figure 1

[0030] Figures 3A-3C is a perspective side view, together depicting the preferred embodiment of the off-centered bristled ridge 1a' within the perforated tube 1b" type circular brush.

[0031] Figure 4 is a perspective side view, showing the off-centered bristled ridge 1a' within the perforated tube 1b" type circular brush barrel, incorporated with an electric motor that drives, automatically rotating the circular brush device including a blower feature.

[0032] Figures 5A-5C is a perspective side view and is the first in a series of step-by-step assembly procedures depicting the mechanical aspects required to construct an alternative mechanical method to achieve the novel features described in the previous figures. Depicted here are two (2) bristle sliding flanges 5a-5b, each affixed to a hollow ridge 5c assembly and including a bristle span 2a' arrangement.

[0033] Figures 6A-6B is a perspective side view and is the second in a series of illustrations continuing the assembly process described in Figures 5A-5C is a perspective side view and is the second in a series of illustrations continuing the assembly process described in​

[0034] Figures 7A-7C are perspective side views that collectively depict a third series of illustrations of the assembly process described in Figures 6A-6B . Depicted here are the cradle stabilizing rods 7a and the actuating rods 7b. These illustrations depict how the components transfer motion from one side of the brush barrel assembly to the other through the hollow spine 5c.

[0035] Figures 8A-8B are perspective side views that collectively depict a fourth series of illustrations of the assembly process described in Figures 5A-5C , Figures 6A-6B and Figures 7A-7C . Depicted here are the two (2) cradle stabilizing discs 8b-8d, each secured to the two (2) cradle stabilizing disc sheaths 8a-8c. This illustration also depicts how the components incorporate into and interact with the assembly of previously described components.

[0036] Figures 9A-9C are perspective side views that collectively depict a fifth series of illustrations of the assembly process described in Figures 5A-5C , Figures 6A-6B , Figures 7A-7C and Figures 8A-8B . Depicted here are the two (2) worm discs 9b-9c, each secured to the two (2) worm disc sheaths 9a-9d. This illustration further depicts how the components incorporate into and interact with the assembly of previously described components.

[0037] Figure 10A is a side view, while Figure 10B is a perspective top view that depicts the now assembled round brush barrel 4a' in combination with the electric motor that drives and automatically rotates the round brush device that includes the blower feature.

[0038] Figures 11A-11F is a front view that provides an understanding of the mechanical process described in the preceding Figures 12A-12C .

[0039] Figures 12A-12C is a front view that serially depicts the mechanical movements that occur as the operator progressively pushes the lever 10o control to reposition the bristles 1d'. The depiction indicates how each of the several positions of these mechanical aspects correspond to each of the several lever 10o positions.

[0040] Figure 13A is a perspective side view of the lever brush barrel. Figure 13B is a partial perspective side view of the rear of the lever brush barrel 13h and the front of the brush handle / chassis 13k. Figure 13C is an end view of the lever brush barrel 13h.

[0041] Figure 14A is an end view of an alternative embodiment of the rod brush cylinder rotating round brush. Figure 14B Figure 14C is an end view of yet another embodiment of the rod brush cylinder rotating round brush.

[0042] Figure 15A is an end view of an alternative embodiment of the multi-rod rotating curler. Figure 15B Figure 15C 15D is an end view of an alternative embodiment of the multi-rod rotating curler.

[0043] Figure 16A is an end view of an alternative embodiment of the multi-rod rotating curler. Figure 15A is the opposite side of the end view shown in Figure 16B is an end view of an alternative embodiment of the multi-rod rotating curler. Figure 16C is an end view of an alternative embodiment of the multi-rod rotating curler. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] (see below Figure 1 ) Note a version of a conventional manual round brush, which consists of a hollow perforated tube 1b, which surrounds a spine 1c with bristles 1d. The bristles 1d are fixed to the spine 1c, which is held suspended in the center of the perforated tube 1b by end caps 1e. The bristles 1d extend out of the perforated tube 1b through a pattern of perforations 1f located above the surface of the tube. The perforations 1f vary in size and shape, but are generally large enough to allow the bristles 1d (or a bundle of bristles, depending on the brush design) and air to move through the perforations 1f together.

[0045] Figure 2A is a circumferential view of the preferred basic mechanical arrangement of an embodiment of the round brush configuration of the present invention as compared to the standard round brush configuration described in Figure 1 Figure 2A ​​​​A circular brush spine 1a is depicted positioned within a perforated tube 1b' with bristles 1d' extending radially from said spine 1a. This view also depicts bristle guides 1g affixed to the inner surface of the perforated tube 1b'. Furthermore, since spacer rings 1h are affixed to the innermost edge of each bristle guide 1g, the spacer rings 1h are centered within the perforated tube 1b'. All perforated tubes described throughout this disclosure can include an outer surface of any of a variety of frictionless and / or smooth finishes. These coatings can include but are not limited to Teflon or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). This feature is intended to eliminate the possibility of hair sticking or being dragged by the rotation of the barrel as described below.

[0046] As shown in Figure 2A , the spine 1a is positioned upward against the spacer rings 1h resulting in the bristles 1d' attached to the top of the spine 1a extending from the bristle perforations 1f at the top of the perforated tube 1b'. This spine 1a position also results in the bristles 1d' attached to the bottom of the spine 1a retracting into the perforated tube 1b'.

[0047] As the entire depicted assembly rotates, the spine 1a remains rotationally fixed while allowing gravity to influence the perforated tube assembly 1i against the spine 1a. The perforated tube assembly 1i includes the perforated tube 1b', the bristle guides 1g, and the spacer rings 1h. Since the bristles 1d' also extend through the perforated tube assembly 1i, said assembly is pushed by the bristles 1d' to turn in tandem with the spine 1a while the top of the spine 1a continues to roll against the inside top of the spacer rings 1h. As Figure 2A the entire assembly continues to rotate and as said assembly remains in said rolling configuration [as shown in Figure 2A ], it will also be noted that each bristle 1d' moves through successive extension and retraction cycles with each successive rotational position of the perforated tube assembly 1i.

[0048] The combination of motions described above creates a novel and useful feature associated with the rotating circular brush concept; as the brush turns, the bristles sweep across the top of the brush barrel but not the bottom of said barrel. This enables the rotating circular brush, whether motorized or manually rotated, to be used to smooth hair of a variety of lengths and textures while possibly eliminating or at least greatly reducing the potential for hair to become entangled around the rotating brush barrel. As this disclosure continues to reveal additional features related and indirectly related to the entanglement issue, this potential entanglement reduction will be understood to be further enhanced. However, for the time being, the more mechanical aspects of the invention can be gleaned from the following Figure 2A .

[0049] In viewing Figure 2AAt this time, note the triangular bristle guide 1g. This guide is used to guide each bristle 1d' to extend and retract in the perforated tube 1b' as each bristle 1d' rotates through each cycle. The bristle guide 1g is arranged side by side around the inner surface of the perforated tube 1b', forming an equidistant circular continuum of triangular spaces. The spaces are widest at the circumference of the spacer ring 1h and narrow outwardly towards the perforated tube 1b'. In this way, each triangular space tapers into a row of bristle perforations 1f. The tapered spaces created by the bristle guide 1g are necessary to accommodate the pivotal action of the bristles 1d'. A description of this pivotal action and the mechanical compensation required for the action is included below.

[0050] As shown in Figure 2B , each bristle 1d' is attached side by side to a straight stem, forming a single bristle span 2a. Each bristle span end 2b is flat and circular. This allows each end of the bristle span 2a to be pivotally seated in a bristle span seat (a) Figure 2C and 2D , 2c). With continued reference to Figure 2C and 2D , a circle of bristle span seats 2c is formed in each bristle span hub 2d, which is formed on the end of each ridge 1a. Further regarding the pivotal action of the bristle span 2a, Figure 2D depicts the means by which the degree of pivoting of the bristle span 2a is limited. First, the means includes a pivot limiter 2e extending away from the inner surface of each bristle span hub 2d, each pivot limiter 2e occupying each space between each bristle span seat 2c. A second of the pivot limiters includes a bristle span lug 2f on each end of each bristle span 2a. Now, when a seated bristle span 2a is pivoted, the bristle span lug 2f will encounter each pivot limiter 2e positioned on either side of the bristle span lug 2f. In this way, the degree of the pivotal action of the bristle span 2a is limited to the degree necessary to compensate for the following coincidences: [1] the eccentric rotation of the ridge 1a and the perforated tube assembly 1i, and [2] the necessary and variable deviation from the 90 degree projection of the bristles 1d' from the ridge 1a (this would not occur if the ridge and perforated tube were rotating concentrically with each other). As shown in Figure 2A , the angle of projection of the bristles 1d' relative to the ridge 1a varies circumferentially.

[0051] While the perforated tube assembly 1i is shown in the form of a triangular guide 1g, a spacer ring 1h, and a perforated tube 1b' as a means to facilitate the movement of the bristles 1d' inside and outside the perforated tube 1b' during rotation of the perforated tube 1b', the perforated tube 1b' can be sized and molded to have recesses along the interior of the perforated tube 1b' to provide channels that can replace the triangular guide 1g and the spacer ring 1h. During use of the bristle device, these channels would likewise guide the bristles 1d' to move towards and thus in and out of the perforations 1f. Similarly, the perforated tube 1b' can also be provided with an inner circumferential surface to provide a rolling surface for the perforated tube assembly 1i to roll on the ridge 1a.

[0052] The bristles of the present embodiment are always engaged with the perforations of the barrel and / or the bristle guide, and this engagement is sufficient to turn the barrel when the bristled ridge is actuated. The bristles act as a transmission to turn the barrel. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 2A the outer spacer ring 1h' / rolling surface 1h' can include internal gear teeth, and the bristle span hub 2d' can also include gear teeth. These gears, when engaged in use, can be used in the manual version of the present embodiment as well as the motorized, automatically rotating version described below.

[0053] Versions of the above-described embodiments can be configured in such a way that the bristles of the eccentrically rotating bristled ridge can be affixed to the ridge in various ways other than being pivotably positioned on the span 2a within the seat 2c on the hub 2d.

[0054] Mounting the ridge within the perforated tube such that the rolling surface associated with the perforated tube rests on a portion of the ridge, the axis of the ridge is offset from the axis of the perforated tube, and the bristles extend into channels formed by the guide surface is one example or means of achieving the function of a rotating bristle device, i.e., where rotation of the ridge causes the rolling surface of the perforated tube to roll on the ridge and eccentrically rotate the perforated tube relative to the ridge, the eccentric rotation of the perforated tube allowing the bristles to extend and retract from the perforations in the perforated tube during rotation of the perforated tube. The extension as described above can be in a sequential manner, where the bristles sequentially extend and then retract from the perforations. As described below, the rotating bristle device can be configured such that the bristles extend or retract during rotation.

[0055] In operation, Figures 2A-3C The rotating bristle device described in or elsewhere in the present specification can be rotated manually or motorized, such that the bristles can engage any desired material for any use or purpose. One example of a material to be engaged can be hair, for the purpose of treating the hair for styling, etc., but the use of the bristle assembly is not limited to this example.

[0056] As the preceding portion of this paragraph describes the basic mechanical arrangement necessary to fulfill the prerequisites for implementing the rotating bristle apparatus invention, the following portion describes various variations of the rotating bristle apparatus that extend upon the foundation of the invention to describe additional features and components.

[0057] Figure 3A The ridge 1a, bristle span hub 2d, and bristle span 2a are depicted as they appear when assembled. Figure 3C The complete version of the present manual embodiment is depicted. Figure 3B The bristle guide 1g and spacing ring 1h are shown. Figure 3A The components depicted in this figure are incorporated into the complete preferred manual embodiment of the invention as appropriate. Figure 3B The handle 3a, ridge extension 3b, alignment disc 3c, and bristle guide 1g and spacing ring 1h as previously described are also included. The bristle guide 1g and spacing ring 1h are again depicted here to provide a perspective view. The view will also help the reader to accurately visualize the following preferred embodiment of the perforated tube assembly 1i.

[0058] As previously described, the spacing ring 1h and bristle guide 1g work in concert to guide the motion of each bristle 1d'. The spacing 1h and guide 1g facilitate the reliable return of each bristle 1d' toward and through each applicable perforation 1f from all locations through which each bristle 1d' passes. As previously described, the spacing 1h and guide 1g can be effectively replaced by shaping the inner surface of the perforated tube 1b' as a pattern of conical recesses that match the bristle guidance of the spacing 1h and guide 1g.

[0059] Returning to the description of the portion as Figures 3A-3C depicted, the ridge extension 3b extends from and is fixed to the outer surface of one bristle span hub 2d. Fixed to the ridge extension 3b are the handle 3a and stabilizing disc 3c. The disc 3c is fixed to the ridge extension 3b in a concentric manner and is sandwiched abutting between the distal end of the bristle guide 1g and the recessed tube cap 3d. The stabilizing disc 3c prevents lateral movement of the perforated tube assembly 1i relative to the ridge 1a [toward and away from the handle 3a], and the stabilizing disc 3c is larger than the ridge extension opening 3e to prevent the stabilizing disc 3c from sliding out the outside of the recessed tube cap 3d.

[0060] Note that the diameter of the ridge extension opening 3e at the center of the recessed tube cap 3d is wider than the diameter of the circumference of the ridge extension 3b. This feature allows the perforated tube assembly 1i to remain against the ridge 1a as the tube assembly rotates when the operator turns the handle 3a. As this variation of the invention is intended to be used with a manual implement, the diameter of the ridge extension opening 3e is not as critical as it is in the motorized version of the invention. Figures 3A-3C) maintains the mechanical offset relationship between the ridge 1a and the perforated tube assembly 1i, so it relies on gravity to stay in place. This offset relationship is further maintained as the operator uses the brush on the hair. Placing the hair on top of the tube assembly and turning the brush from below in a direction that pulls the hair away from the scalp causes the weight of the hair to further hold the perforated tube assembly 1i against the ridge 1a as the operator manually turns it. At the same time, as previously described, the offset relationship is maintained by the hair styling operation, thereby maintaining the circulation of the bristles 1d' on top of the perforated tube assembly 1i, thereby continuing the brushing action through the hair. At the same time, the bristles continue to retract into the assembly by the circulation on the bottom of the perforated tube assembly 1i, thereby facilitating the continued release of the hair that was just previously entrapped by the bristles. This capture and release circulation significantly reduces the likelihood of the hair becoming entrapped around the entire circumference of the perforated tube assembly 1i. Of course, this is generally the primary cause of round brush tangling.

[0061] The foregoing Figures 3A-3C preferred motorized variations of the embodiments described below. Figure 4 The brush barrel 4a functions the same; the difference is the mechanical way in which these functions are initiated. The following is a description of the device.

[0062] Figure 4 A brush barrel 4a is depicted positioned rotationally adjacent the front of the motorized brush chassis 4b. Because the barrel cap 4d is affixed to one end of a stabilizing shaft 4e, the brush barrel 4a is held in place while the other end of the shaft spans the hollow ridge 1a' of the brush barrel 4a and is affixed to the handle / chassis 4b. The shaft is held to the handle / chassis 4b at a shaft seat 4f location within an internal seat geometry molded into the handle / chassis 4b. The barrel cap 4d is held to the stabilizing shaft 4e as the cap end of the stabilizing shaft 4e is inserted into the cap shaft seat 4o, and the cap shaft seat screw 4p is tightened into a mating threaded hole in the stabilizing shaft 4e. One inner circumferential edge of the perforated tube 1b' continuously mates on the front edge of the handle / chassis 4b's circumferential lip and recess. This handle / chassis front edge is referred to as the chassis lip 4c.

[0063] The barrel cap end of the perforated tube 1b' overlaps the inner rim of the barrel cap 4d; this arrangement reduces the likelihood of hair tangling along the horizontal, end-to-end rotary joint shared by the perforated tube 1b' and the barrel cap 4d. The handle / tray 4b end of the perforated tube 1b' is increased in diameter, thereby forming the concave end of the tube. The angled outer end of the perforated tube 1b' also overlaps the handle / tray 4b. The cylindrical overlapping space of both perforated tube 1b' ends is wide enough so that if hair manages to slide sideways into the space, the hair is unlikely to tangle within it. Moreover, hair will be continuously pulled from the outwardly angled handle / tray 4b end of the tube towards the center of the perforated tube 1b', further reducing the chance of hair tangling in the rotary joint. The barrel cap 4d end of the perforated tube 1b' can taper outwardly like the tray 4b end of the tube, or, alternatively, the barrel cap 4d end of the tube 1b' can taper inwardly on the cap for a distance while still maintaining the space between the overlapping surfaces described previously.

[0064] The inner handle / tray 4b geometry includes a motor seat 4g shaped around and occupied by the electric motor 4h. The motor is positioned above the stabilizing shaft 4e, configured so that the distal end of the rotary motor rod 4i is positioned above the proximal end of the spine 1a'. Since the distal end of the motor rod 4i and the proximal end of the spine 1a' each have a small gear 4j, when the gears are engaged, the motor 4h is powered and the brush barrel 4a rotates. If the current is reversed, the brush barrel 4a rotates in reverse. An electrical switch 4k can be installed into the tray 4b that will actuate the reversal. Furthermore, the switch can be of the type that also regulates the speed of rotation. Finally, the function of the switch can also include the function of controlling the blow-dry unit 4I. As shown, the front nozzle 4m of the unit will preferably taper to one side of the inner handle / tray 4b. This taper directs the hot air stream through the air flow cavity 4n formed in the handle / tray 4b.

[0065] Throughout this disclosure, in order to avoid undue explanation, reference will be made to several alternative features and embodiments of the invention, which the inventors wish to fall within the simple and obvious range so that the alternative features and embodiments do not require the drawings. One such feature / embodiment is as follows.

[0066] The motorized embodiment described above can include a toggle key that allows the bristles to assume two (2) positions relative to the barrel: one position is the "catch and release" bristle position; the second position is the "all bristles in the barrel" bristle position. The toggle key will include a switch that extends to the outside of the handle / tray. The switch will activate a simple mechanism that moves the barrel relative to the handle / tray to a position that centers the barrel over the bristled spine. Since the barrel is in this centered position, all of the bristles will be in the "all bristles in the barrel" position.

[0067] Later in this disclosure, one embodiment will be described as having a cylinder consisting of rods or tubes arranged in a circular pattern (see below). Figure 13A 13a and 13c). The bristled ridges described above can also rotate eccentrically within the cylinder of Figure 13, regardless of whether the entire cylinder 13c rotates. Figure 13A The rod 13a can be rotated on or fixed to the flange independently. When the rod is fixed, they can be... Figure 2A The bristle guide is 1g in longitudinal or other shapes.

[0068] The following is a preferred embodiment of the invention, illustrating additional bristle positions besides the two described above. The bristles in this embodiment have the following functions: fully retracted into the barrel, fully extended out of the barrel, varying the degree of bristle extension, and adopting positions as previously described that allow the bristles to circulate between sweeping across the top of the barrel and retracting into the barrel.

[0069] like Figure 5B and 5C As shown, the bristle span 2a' can slide back and forth within the sliding channel 5d of the bristle flanges 5a and 5b. Simultaneously, due to each retraction spring ( ) towards each bristle flange 5a and 5b... Figure 6A The edge of 6a) is located between the two (2) branches of each bristle span channel 5i, and the bristle span channel 5i at both ends of each bristle span 2a' is engaged with a set of circular retraction springs. Figure 6A 6a). Now consider Figure 6A and 11D The entire assembly depicted is rotating, except for the stationary return spring 6a. The proposed arrangement would embody each bristle span channel 5i and bristle span 2a' straddling each stationary return spring 11D, 6a, while each bristle span channel 5i remains within each outer end of each sliding channel 5d.

[0070] Now, as Figure 11E As shown, consider each stationary retracting spring 6a retracting and decreasing in diameter while remaining centered relative to the outer circumference of each bristle flange 5a and 5b. Meanwhile, as each bristle span 5i of the rotating assembly simultaneously rides over the inwardly retracting retracting spring 6a, each bristle span 2a' will slide toward the inner end of each sliding channel 5d.

[0071] Now consider (e.g.) Figure 11FThe non-rotating retraction spring 6a is positioned off-center (relative to the circumference of each bristle flange 5a and 5b) and the bristle span channel 5i is still engaged with the retraction spring 6a. One side of the spring 6a will be above the outer end of the slide channel 5d and the opposite side of the spring 6a will be above the inner end of the slide channel 5d. Now, when the bristle flange 5a and 5b and bristle span 2a' assembly is rotated, all the bristle spans 2a' will continuously slide to the outer end of each slide channel 5d on one side of the assembly while all the bristle spans 2a' continuously slide to the inner end of each slide channel 5d on the opposite side of the assembly due to the bristle span channel 5i riding over the off-center positioned retraction spring 6a.

[0072] In this understanding, the bristle flange 5a and 5b and bristle span 2a' assembly is suitably positioned within the perforated tube (see Figure 10B , 10a) to extend and retract the bristles from the perforated barrel in the three modes described. Still to be explained are the means for retraction spring 6a retraction, expansion and off-center positioning.

[0073] As Figure 7C shown, 3 brackets 6c are positioned along the outer edge of each retraction spring 6a. Attached to each bracket 6c is a bracket pin 8j. As Figure 8A and 8B shown, each pin 8j occupies each bracket slide channel 8i of each stabilizing disc 8b and 8d.

[0074] Both stabilizing discs 8b and 8d are located on the outside of each bristle span flange 5a and 5b and remain stationary relative to the handle. The purpose of the stabilizing discs 8b and 8d and their bracket slide channels 8i is to guide the movement of the retraction spring 6a with the movement of the bracket 6c and therefore, since each bracket pin 8j is positioned within each bracket slide channel 8i of each stabilizing disc 8b and 8d, each retraction spring 6a is limited within the slide limit of each bracket pin 8j.

[0075] As Figure 9A and 9B shown, the inward and outward movement of each bracket pin 8j is driven by the side-by-side pivoting of the worm gear 9b and 9c sections relative to the fixed stabilizing discs 8b and 8d. Both worm discs 9b and 9c are positioned horizontally adjacent to the outside of each of the two stabilizing discs 8b and 8d. The bracket pin 8j extends through the bracket slide channel 8i and into the worm channel 9e (as Figure 9B shown). The stabilizing discs 8b and 8d remain stationary and the worm discs 9b and 9c are actuated to pivot clockwise and counter-clockwise; each turning direction is approximately one-third (1 / 3) of a full rotation. The bracket 6c moves inward and outward as the two sets of slide channels 8i and 9e push against each bracket pin 8j in a "scissor action".

[0076] The following is a detailed description of the entire mechanical assembly required to initiate the above mechanical operation.

[0077] Figure 5A Depicted are the front bristle flange 5a and the rear bristle flange 5b concentrically affixed to the hollow spine 5c [at a distance from one another]. Formed in the flanges are equidistantly spaced sliding channels 5d. The channels begin at the hollow spine 5c and then extend radially away from the hollow spine 5c and terminate at the outer circumference of each bristle flange 5a and 5b. Note the airflow space 5e between each sliding channel 5d on the rear bristle flange 5b, the space is absent on the front flange 5a. This arrangement is used for the directional airflow feature described later in this disclosure. The airflow space 5e of the rear flange 5b will not be described further in the remainder of this disclosure. The author hopes this will minimize the visual complexity of the layered illustrations as the various parts continue.

[0078] Figure 5A And 5C Another feature presented is a set of recessed gear teeth 5f around the back of the rear spine extension 5g. This feature of the gear teeth 5f will also be described in detail later.

[0079] Figure 5B Depicted is a single bristle span 2a’. As Figure 5C shown, because each of the spans bridges the space between two bristle flanges 5a and 5b, all of the bristles 1d’ radiate outward, each sliding channel 5d is occupied by one end of a single bristle span 2a’. See Figure 5B And 5C note the bristle span channel 5i formed at both ends of each bristle span 2a’.

[0080] Referring to Figure 6A note that each bristle span channel 5i serves as a receiver for one edge of a circular retracting spring 6a. The spring is preferably a thin band retracting spring commonly found in retractable tape measures. More preferably, the length of the spring type portion is capable of completing an entire loop that reaches the edge of the spring 6a that occupies all of the bristle span channels 5i and includes an overlapping portion 6b of the end of the spring. Preferably, the length of this spring end overlapping portion 6b will occupy a minimum of two bristle span channels 5i. As Figure 6B shown, each retracting spring 6a is held within each bristle span channel 5i by three sliding brackets 6c simultaneously. An inward force is then applied equally to the three equidistantly spaced sliding brackets 6c positioned around the perimeter of each spring 6a. The inward force of each sliding bracket 6c causes each bristle span 2a’ to slide toward the spine 5c. Furthermore, as Figure 6BAs shown, when the bristle span channel 5i and the rounded edge of the slide bracket 6c meet the rounded edge of each spring 6a formed by the overlapping portion 6b, the side edges of each bristle span channel 5i and each slide bracket 6c are rounded to smoothly accommodate the rotation of the bristle span channel 5i over the spring 6a.

[0081] As Figure 5A -C As previously shown, the bristles are capable of multiple functional settings. Part of the mechanical action associated with said functional settings must be transmitted through the interior of the hollow spine 5c. The following is a description of the telescoping mechanical transmission assembly that occupies the interior of the spine 5c.

[0082] Figure 7A The bracket stabilizer rod 7a and the bracket actuator rod 7b are depicted. As Figure 7B shown, the stabilizer rod 7a telescopes within the actuator rod 7b. Note the short helix of the open worm screw 7c formed in the actuator rod 7b. The threaded pin 7d is flush mounted through the screw and into the threaded pin seat 7f located on the bracket stabilizer rod 7a. As Figure 7C shown, the now telescopically connected bracket stabilizer rod 7a and bracket actuator rod 7b are telescopically positioned within the hollow spine 5c. The stabilizer rod 7a has a bracket stabilizer rod recess 7e, which will be explained below.

[0083] Two telescoping disk assemblies are introduced below, which are responsible for stabilizing and guiding the motion of the slide bracket 6c (and, simultaneously, the bristle span 2a'). As Figure 8A shown, the front bracket stabilizer disk 8b's front bracket stabilizer disk sheath 8a telescopically fits over the front spine extension 5h, while the rear bracket stabilizer disk 8d's rear bracket stabilizer disk sheath 8c fits over the rear spine extension 5g in a similar manner. As Figure 8B shown, the front stabilizer disk rod teeth 8g slide into the front stabilizer rod teeth channel 8h. Likewise, the rear stabilizer disk rod teeth 8g slide into the rear stabilizer rod teeth channel 8h. Also see Figure 8A and 8B , note another assembly joint; the six (6) bracket slide channels 8i [three (3) bracket slide channels 8i per stabilizer disk 8b and 8d] formed in both (2) bracket stabilizer disks 8b and 8d interface with the six (6) bracket pins 8j. As Figure 8B shown, the final assembly joint is the six (6) pin locks 8k affixed to the six (6) bracket pins 8j. Note the Figure 8A flat back of each bracket 6c. As Figure 8BAs shown, by combining the flat front of each bracket pin lock 8k, each of these six (6) sets of double flat surfaces clamps each bracket stabilizing channel 8i in a tight manner, while allowing each bracket 6c to slide smoothly up and down in each stabilizing channel 8i. Also note the gear inlet 8l on the rear bracket stabilizing disc sheath 8c and the airflow space 8m on the rear bracket stabilizing disc 8d. These functions will be discussed later.

[0084] Figures 9A-9C Describes the sliding support integrated into the brush holder that is responsible for moving the brush. Figure 6B , 6c) and the final mechanical aspects of the bristle span 2a'. For example Figure 9A As shown, the front worm gear sleeve 9a slides retractably on the front bracket stabilizer sleeve 8a. Figure 9B As shown, this positions the front worm gear 9b flush with the front support stabilizing disc 8b. See also... Figure 9B A small space 9k is visible between the disks, surrounding most of their circumferential edge. This space 9k occurs when the rear of the front worm gear 9b abuts against the front of the support pins 9A and 8k. The rear support stabilizing disk 8d and the rear worm gear 9c, as well as the rear support stabilizing disk sheath 8c and the rear worm gear sheath 9d, share the same assembly space and positional relationship with their front counterparts (mirror image) just described. Although the disks and sheaths are as described... Figure 9B As shown, each end of the six (6) support pins 8j engages with each of the six (6) corresponding worm channels 9e [each worm disc 9b and 9c has three (3) worm channels 9e]. Simultaneously, each of the four (4) worm disc sleeve teeth 9f [each worm disc sleeve 9a and 9d has two (2) teeth at its end] engages with each of the four (4) actuator tooth slots 9g; the two (2) actuator tooth slots 9g are located at both ends of the actuator rod 7b. Figure 9C Enlarged views of the tooth 9f and tooth groove 9g are provided. Also note the airflow space 9h, the gear inlet 9i located on the rear worm gear sleeve 9d, and each worm channel rod 9j located on the front and rear worm gears 9b and 9c. These mechanical aspects will be described later in this disclosure.

[0085] Figure 10A (Side view) and 10B (top perspective view) are detailed descriptions of this embodiment, as described and depicted to date, and the components are further integrated into the perforated tube 10a and the device body / chassis 10b.

[0086] The following is a description of the lip and recess that secure the cylinder and handle / base together. These lips and recesses are only... Figure 10A The overall description does not appear in Figure 9A and 9B middle.

[0087] Figure 10A A brush barrel 4a' is depicted positioned adjacent the front of the chassis 10b. As Figure 10A shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the brush barrel 4a' remains in place when the rear worm chassis sheath 9d is positioned within the chassis worm sheath receiver 10c. The sheath remains adjacent but cannot slide out of the receiver because the worm sheath receiver recess 10d [around the inside of the receiver] acts as a rotational continuation [also around] of the worm sheath lip 10e. The cradle stabilizer chassis sheath 8c is also rotatably seated to the worm chassis sheath 9d from the outside by the worm chassis sheath recess 10f and the cradle stabilizer chassis sheath lip 10g, and from the inside by the cradle stabilizer chassis sheath recess 10h and the hollow spine lip 10i. The barrel cap 10j is also attached to the front of the barrel by a deviation of the same lips and recesses described above. Various methods can be employed to cause the lips and recesses to overlap with one another during assembly. The chassis and sheath unit can be molded with a longitudinal split on one side, such that the sheath and chassis can be expanded at the split for a moment as the unit can be pressed together with some force, causing the unit to permanently mate together at the lip / recess locations. Another method of assembling these telescoping sheaths is to simply mold them in two halves, and then melt the halves together with one another.

[0088] It is also sufficient to depict the rear circumferential edge of the tube 10a with perforations to align against the previously described Figure 4 motorized embodiment of the same components as the handle / chassis 10b.

[0089] As Figure 10B shown in FIG. 10A, the electric motor 10k is attached to the handle / chassis 10b at the motor seat 101. The motor seat 101 is molded into the interior geometry of the handle / chassis 10b. The motor pinion 10m is attached to the rotating rod 10n of the motor 10k. The motor pinion 10m is aligned with the gear teeth 5f molded into the recessed rear hollow spine extension 5g through the gear hole 81 of the rear cradle stabilizer chassis sheath 8c and the gear hole 9i of the rear worm chassis sheath 9d. It can be seen that the gear hole 9i of the rear worm chassis sheath 9d is longer circumferentially across the sheath than the gear tooth hole 81 of the cradle stabilizer chassis sheath 8c. This arrangement allows the rear worm chassis sheath 9d to pivot while the motor pinion 10m teeth and the gear teeth of the rear hollow spine extension 5g remain engaged.

[0090] In Figure 10A , the control arm 10o is hinged to the control arm stabilizer 10p. The control arm stabilizer 10p is attached to the inside bottom of the handle / chassis 10b. As Figure 10BAs shown, the control arm 10o is divided into two (2) parts; one part is hinged to the bottom of one side of the control arm stabilizer 10p, and the second part of the control arm 10o is hinged to the other side of the stabilizer. The stabilizer 10p is thus sandwiched between the two sides of the control arm 10o. The bracket stabilizer groove 7e is also sandwiched between the two parts of the control arm 10o. See also Figure 7B A more complete view of the stabilizer bar recess 7e. The two parts of the control arm 10o engage at the top of the arm 10o. This connecting part of the control arm 10o appears through the control arm slot 10r located on top of the handle / chassis 10b. The control arm button 10s is attached to the top of the control arm 10o. The control arm 10o pivots back and forth on the control arm pin 10t.

[0091] For the following content, please see Figure 10A The center position of the control arm 10o and the bracket stabilizer bar groove 7e, and the two additional positions of the control arm 10o and the bracket stabilizer bar groove 7e (in Figure 10A (Indicated by dashed lines). As described above, the two parts of the control arm 10o clamp the support stabilizing rod groove 7e in the middle (see... Figure 10A (The two additional dashed positions of the bracket stabilizer groove 7e depicted in the image). The three (3) pivoting positions of the control arm 10o and the three (3) sliding positions of the bracket stabilizer 7a control the three (3) brush positions that may be used in this embodiment. Figure 10A and 10B As shown, when the control arm is in the center position, the bristles are in the fully extended position. The following is a description of the mechanical action that causes the bristles to occupy two (2) additional positions. Figures 11A-11C A layered mechanical assembly is depicted, which interacts with the movement of the control arm 10a so that the bristles occupy two (2) additional positions.

[0092] Figure 11A This is a circumferential view of the two support stabilizers 8b and 8d, and the two stabilizer covers 8a and 8c. Furthermore, Figure 11A The stabilizer channel 8i, the bracket stabilizer tooth 8g, the sliding bracket 6c, the sliding bracket pin 8j (solid black circle) and the retraction spring 6a (dashed line) are shown. Figure 11A The two (2) bracket stabilizer assemblies are presented individually when viewed directly below the brush cylinder in this embodiment.

[0093] Figure 11B This is a circumferential view of two spiral disks 9b and 9c, and two spiral disk sheaths 9a and 9d. Furthermore, Figure 11B The worm channel 9e, worm sleeve teeth 9f, and worm channel rod 9j are shown. (Compared to...) Figure 11A As shown, Figure 11B The two (2) components are presented separately when viewed directly from below the brush tube in this embodiment.

[0094] Figure 11C are overlapping Figure 11A and 11B A circumferential (while also looking straight down from below the brush barrel) view of the components of Figure 11C and

[0095] Figure 12A (1) and 12B(1) are Figure 11C the mechanical assemblies depicted in Figures 11A-11C are also the same relative rotational configuration as they will appear when the control arm 10o is in the center position (see the control arm 10o position of Fig. 10). The position is also responsible for establishing the bristle span 2a' in the fully extended rotational setting. Figure 12A (4) is Figure 11C the same mechanical assemblies depicted in Figure 10A but configured differently. This configuration establishes the bristle span 2a' in a rotational setting that alternates between extended and retracted, i.e., when the brush barrel is rotated, the bristles 1d' on one side of the rotating barrel are continuously swept over while the bristles on the other side of the rotating barrel are continuously retracted. This setting is achieved by pushing the control arm 10o to the farthest forward position (see the control arm 10o position of Fig. 11). Figure 12B (4) is also Figure 11C the mechanical assemblies depicted in Figure 10A and is the third configuration. This configuration places the bristles 1d' in a rotational setting that is fully retracted into the brush barrel. This setting is achieved by pushing the control arm 10o to the farthest rearward position (see the control arm 10o position of Fig. 12). Other settings between the three described so far are also possible, e.g.; pushing the control arm 10o to an intermediate position between the center and fully forward will allow the user to use half the length of the rotating bristles in the fully extended position. Also, an intermediate position of the control arm 10o position between the center and fully rearward will make the rotating bristles longer on one side of the rotating barrel and shorter on the other, etc.

[0096] Figure 12C is a perspective view of the central telescopic rod assembly. The assembly corresponds to Figure 12A (1-4) and Figure 12B (1-4) is a reference aimed at helping illustrate the progression of the mechanical configuration depicted in Figure 12A (1-4) and Figure 12B (1-4) is a reference aimed at helping illustrate the progression of the mechanical configuration depicted in

[0097] As mentioned above, Figure 12A (1) The components are depicted in position as they are configured to control the arm 10o to be in the center position with the bristle span 2a' fully extended (see Figure 10A for the control arm 10o position). When the control arm 10o is pushed forward, the Figure 12A component configuration of (1-4) is performed.

[0098] The following is a description of the necessary mechanical interactions that cause the component configuration change between Figure 12A (1) and Figure 12A (2). As mentioned previously (see also Figures 7A-7C and Figure 10A and 10B ), the threaded pin 7d is secured into the threaded pin seat 7f of the cradle stabilizer bar 7a. The threaded pin 7d then extends outward from the cradle stabilizer bar 7a and into the threads 7c located on the cradle actuator bar 7b. Now, as the cradle stabilizer bar 7a moves forward within the cradle actuator bar 7b, the threaded pin 7d pushes forward against the front wall of the worm gear threads 7c. When this happens, the cradle stabilizer bar 7a is prevented from rotating within the cradle actuator bar 7b because the cradle stabilizer bar groove 7e is sandwiched between the two (2) parts of the control arm 10o (see Figure 10A for the control arm 10o position). Now, as the threaded pin 7d pushes against the inside front edge of the worm gear threads 7c, and because the cradle stabilizer bar 7a is prevented from rotating, the cradle actuator bar 7b begins to rotate. As the cradle actuator bar 7b rotates with the cradle stabilizer bar 7a moving forward within the cradle actuator bar 7b without rotating, the front and back stabilizer disk sheath teeth 8g engage with the front and back stabilizer bar teeth channels 8h of the cradle stabilizer bar 7a (see also Figure 11C ). This prevents the front and back cradle stabilizer sheaths 8a and 8c and the front and back cradle stabilizer disks 8b and 8d from rotating (see also Figure 11A ). At the same time, the front and back worm disk sheath teeth 9f engage with the front and back actuator bar notches 9g (see also Figure 9C and 11C ). This causes the front and back worm disk sheaths 9a-9d and the front and back worm disks 9b-9c to rotate (see also Figure 11B ).

[0099] (see also Figure 12A (2)) it has been determined that the front and back cradle stabilizer disks ( Figure 11A , 8b-8d) do not rotate, while the front and back worm disks ( Figure 11B , 9b-9c) rotate counterclockwise (see Figures 10A-10B ) when the control arm 10o is pushed forward. Thus, note Figure 12A(2) so that as the pin 8j and holder 6c are simultaneously pushed by the worm disc threaded channel 9e, the sliding holder pin 8j (heavy black dot) and the sliding holder 6c attached to the pin 8j begin to slide inward along the holder slide channel 8i. As this happens, because the retraction spring (dashed line) 6a is positioned within the holder 6c, the retraction spring also winds inward. Also, (see below Figure 6A and 6B ) as the bristle span channel 5i engages the retraction spring 6a, the bristle span 2a' also begins to move inward.

[0100] Figure 12A (3) is a continuation of the mechanical motion described in Figure 12A (2) above. Note how the holder 6c and retraction spring (dashed circle) 6a take an off-center position relative to the perforated tube 10a. Also, note the interaction of the worm channel 9e and the holder slide channel 8i, as the channels simultaneously interact to move the holder 6c to the position shown.

[0101] Figure 12A (4) depicts another mechanical interaction to note. Note the threaded channel rod 9j. This feature serves as a channel switch that guides the sliding holder pin 8j along the appropriate worm threaded channel 9e. Figure 12A (4) depicts the rod in a counterclockwise position. This position ensures that the sliding holder pin 8j adjacent to the rod 9j follows the same worm channel 9e through the reverse action of the mechanical interaction described previously. The reverse action is actuated by the control arm returning to the center position. This return reestablishes the mechanism to the position depicted in Figure 12A (1). Note Figure 12B the depiction in the series of Figure 12A (1-4). The same type of mechanical interaction that occurs in the series of depictions in Figure 10A (1-4) also occurs in this series. The difference is that the control arm moves to a rearward position Figure 12B , 10o), thus; as the worm disc 9b-9c rotates clockwise, 12B (1-4) follows the mechanism. As stated previously, Figure 12B (1-4) depicts a series of mechanical motions that allow all of the bristle spans 2a' to retract into the perforated tube 10a. Note in Figure 12B (4) that the clockwise pivoting of the threaded channel rod 9j ensures that the applicable holder pin 8j is guided back through the same worm disc threaded channel 9e as the mechanism returns to the setup in

[0102] It will also be necessary to describe the differences in the bristle guide device between the embodiments of Figures 3A-3C and Figure 4 and Figures 10A-10B . As Figures 3A-3C andFigure 4 The bristle span 2a is attached to the ridge 1a and 1a' (respectively) and when said ridges and the perforated tube assembly 1i are rotated in tandem but eccentric to each other, the effect of this arrangement is the necessity of a pivoting bristle 1d' / bristle span 2a and the bristle guide 1g and spacer ring 1h.

[0103] In Figure 10A and 10B embodiments, the pivoting bristle 1d' / bristle span 2a' and the bristle guide 1g and spacer ring 1h [or any other previously described bristle guiding device] are not required (see also Figure 5A ) below. Thus, each bristle span 2a' is in place to slide up and down precisely along each applicable pair of sliding channels 5d (one of said pair on each bristle flange 5a and 5b), the length and distal end' of each bristle 1d' always following a straight path in and out of each perforation 1f of the perforated tube 10a, and said tube is fixed to the bristle flanges 5a and 5b, which in turn are fixed to the ridge 5c. Since each said spring is slidable along each inner circumference to engage each bristle span channel 5i, which is located at each end of each bristle span 2a', the straight path [when the brush cylinder is rotating] of each bristle span 2a' travelling up and down each pair of sliding channels 5d is actuated by the relative position of each retraction spring 6a.

[0104] In combination Figures 5A to 12B (4) the mechanism described to extend and / or retract the bristles in the bristle flanges is considered a device for moving the brush cylinder and bristle assembly so that in one mode the brush cylinder rotates with all the bristles extending from the perforations; in a second mode the brush cylinder rotates with the bristles continuously extending on one side of the rotating brush cylinder and continuously retracting on the other side of the rotating brush cylinder; and in a third mode the bristles are fully retracted so that no bristles extend from the rotating brush cylinder during the rotation of the brush cylinder.

[0105] Another variation can use a perforated tube assembly that is flexible and arranged with a mechanical assembly previously described or later described, resulting in a rotating elliptical or crescent shaped brush cylinder with two wider flat sides and two narrow circular sides. The cylinder rotates in a manner similar to the belt on a belt sander or the tracks on a military tank. This arrangement can be called a "rotating paddle brush". It is sufficient to describe this preferred embodiment in words only.

[0106] As the brush cylinder rotates, the preferred design would manifest as bristles in an extended cycle on one flat side, bristles in a retracted cycle on the opposite flat side, and bristles on both circular narrow sides. This embodiment provides additional styling options that form hair into a straighter appearance than previous circular brush variants. Another important benefit derived from this embodiment is the reduced likelihood of hair tangling around the entire perimeter of the brush cylinder.

[0107] Consider the current "belt" type cylinder in combination with the mechanical arrangement that produces the current variant Figure 4 or Figure 14A of a rotating belt type elliptical brush cylinder with bristles that extend in a cycle on only one flat side. In addition, incorporated into the arrangement is a perforated belt tube, preferably of a tough flexible fabric or silicone rubber with a possible teflon fabric or other low friction or smooth outer layer or coating to prevent hair from sticking to the belt type cylinder.

[0108] As the operator holds the rotating paddle brush by the handle, the operator covers a portion of the hair over the cylinder. As the hair is covered over the cylinder, the flat side of the cylinder with bristles in an extended cycle is facing up and the hair is wrapped around the bristles. The cylinder rotates so that the top side with bristles is away from the scalp. This allows the bristles to release the hair at the point where the hair begins to cover the outer circular side of the cylinder. Thus, the prevention of hair from always tangling around the perimeter of the present brush type begins at the top of the first circular side of the cylinder. To wrap over this point on the cylinder, the hair that has been released needs to bend 90 degrees from the covered position up and stick to the smooth, flat, wide [though rotating] and bristle free bottom of the brush cylinder. This is unlikely. To continue this unlikely tangling process, the hair that sticks to the bottom would somehow continue to stick to the equally smooth and hair free inner circular edge of the brush cylinder would require the performance of an even more unlikely operation.

[0109] The following is a description of various variations of the use of the present round brush. The operator can use the brush on either their own hair or on someone else's hair by cutting most of the hair off up to the crown, leaving an operable section at the back of the neck. The operator can brush this section and then drop successive sections as the operator brushes from the back of the neck up to the crown. The operator can also simply grab a section of hair when all the hair is naturally down, simply parting the hair that is not intended to be brushed from the section that is intended to be brushed and begin brushing. Once a section is selected, the operator places the section on the top of the brush and then turns the brush on to make the brush rotate in its rotational direction or manually rotate so that the top of the brush [the bristles protrude] rotates away from the head. As the brush rotates the bristles through the hair at the top of the brush, the operator can hold the brush in the current "bristles up" position and polish the section of hair by moving the brush back and forth away from and toward the head, thereby polishing the hair from the root to the tip until the operator is satisfied with the result. The operator will simply continue to work on successive sections in the manner described above, except for one of the variations described, until complete. Figure 10A and 10B The brush of the present invention can be used as just described, but when the operator is still in the polishing mode, the operator can pull the brush away from the head until the operator reaches the end of the hair and, while the brush is still rotating in place, the operator can switch the mode of the brush to "all bristles protruding" and roll the section of hair up onto the scalp and turn off the rotation as the barrel approaches the scalp. The operator can leave the brush on the scalp for a period of time to allow the heat to work on the hair, thereby causing the section to become wavy. Once the operator is satisfied with the amount of time the section has been rolled, the operator will switch the mode of the brush again, this time to "all bristles retracted". This completely releases the section of hair that is now wavy and the operator can repeat the entire process. Other techniques for using the several embodiments of the present round brush can also be employed.

[0110] Another variation of the present invention is described below, which has yet another entangling feature used with retractable bristle features, providing another novel hair styling appliance. The feature addresses the problem encountered when any of the previously described embodiments of the retractable bristle rotating circular brush (which do not include the reverse rotating rod feature described below) are used on wet or damp hair of this type. While the retractable bristles of the described embodiments capture and release wet or damp hair, the hair becomes wet and sticks to the outer surface of the barrel where the bristles retract due to water or other liquids commonly used in hair. This problem can be addressed by using one or more of a number of non-stick or hydrophobic coatings. A mechanical solution to wet hair sticking is described below, including sticking caused by electrostatic attraction inherent in water and other fluids. The embodiment of the present invention that mechanically addresses the above problem is called the reverse rotating rod rotating barrel. The barrel of this embodiment can also be coated with the type of coating described above. Any known type of non-stick coating can be used, such as PTFE, etc.

[0111] As Figure 13A shown, this embodiment employs a plurality of rods 13a that are preferably, but not limited to, circular or cylindrical in shape. A gear 13b is molded to one end of each rod 13a. Each of the plurality of geared rods is positioned in close parallel to each other and arranged in a cylindrical body 13c. The cylindrical body of the geared rods is sandwiched between two (2) bristled flanges 13d at both ends of the rods. Circular openings 13e are arranged equidistant from each other around the periphery of each rod and bristled flange 13d; each opening 13e serves as a pivot seat for each end of each rod. A bristle span sliding channel 13f is located between each rod seat 13e and each rod, with a bristled flange 13d fixed to each end of a spine 13g. This arrangement of rods 13a, flanges 13d, and spine 13g forms a rod-type brush barrel 13h. As Figure 13B and 14A shown, the barrel 13h is suitably connected to a handle / chassis 13k, and each rod gear 13b of the cylindrical body of geared rods 13c is in mesh with a single internal gear 13i that is disposed fixed or molded to the barrel receiving end of the handle / chassis 13k. To provide a clearer view of the arrangement of internal gears 13i, the channel guide rails 13j (described later in this disclosure) are omitted from Figure 13B .

[0112] (see Figure 13B and 13CWhen the lever cylinder 13h is connected to the handle / base 13k and set to rotate, the mechanical arrangement of the lever cylinder 13h causes it to rotate in one direction, while each lever 13a in the cylinder of the geared lever 13c rotates in the opposite direction at the same rate as the lever cylinder 13h, regardless of the speed at which the cylinder 13h rotates. This action causes hair that would otherwise stick to the individual levers 13a to curl away from each lever 13a in the opposite direction of the rotation of the cylinder 13h.

[0113] Alternatively, the individual barrel 13a can be arranged to release hair or other material by forming a free-rotating rod embodiment. This is achieved by eliminating the rod gear 13b and internal gear 13i of the aforementioned mechanical arrangement. The hair will attempt to stick to the barrel 13h, and the free-rotating rod 13a will simply roll in the opposite direction. In this embodiment, instead of driving the rotating rod with gears in the direction opposite to the rotation direction of the barrel, a means is provided to allow the rod to rotate freely during the rotation of the barrel.

[0114] The previously described retractable bristle span mechanism is also incorporated into this rod-tube assembly. Figure 8A The variant employs a pair of retractable springs 6a as guides for each bristle span channel 5i to engage with and rotate thereon. These circular retractable springs 6a are components of the mechanism that allow the operator to move the bristles through three (3) main bristle positions; however, in this variant, each bristle span channel 5i rotates on a pair of fixed elliptical channel guides 13j (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 13C and 14A This is used to position the brush span channel 5i relative to the fixed elliptical channel guide 13j. Figure 8A Compared to the two (2) circular retractable spring-loaded channel rails 6a shown, these elliptical channel rails 13j reduce the number of bristle spans 2a' circulating through the "bristle extension" position as the bristle span 2a' circulates in and out of the cylinder 13h. This reduces the risk of hair 14b constantly getting tangled around the cylinder 13h, because there is less bristle span 2a' at the extension position at the top of the cylinder 13h and it engages with the hair 14b as the cylinder rotates (see...). Figure 14A Note: When hair 14b properly covers the cylinder 13h (e.g.) Figure 14A As shown), the position of hair 14b is the same as the position on any cylinder of any embodiment of the retractable bristle rotary cylinder brush described herein (although the above position will be mirrored when the cylinder is set to rotate in the opposite direction).

[0115] like Figure 13CAs shown, the bristle span channel 5i moves simultaneously with the bristle span 2a' at both ends of each said span under the guidance of two (2) types of structures. These two (2) types of structures are the sliding channel 13f (rod and bristle flange, Figure 13A , 13d) and the channel guide rail 13j. Alternatively, these channel guide rails 13j can also be Figure 6B the telescoping spring 6a in the embodiment. The sliding channel 13f rotates (as the barrel 13h rotates) while the two (2) channel guide rails 13j remain stationary. This arrangement results in the bristle span 2a' as well as the bristle span channel 5i traveling up and down the sliding channel 13f as the bristle span channel 5i simultaneously engages and travels around the channel guide rails 13j.

[0116] Without further elaboration, it is sufficient to note that Figure 14A and Figure 10A and 10B Each barrel can simply be swapped for each other's body, ridge, and bristle actuation mechanism, resulting in two or more variants of the telescoping bristle rotating barrel brush. One of these embodiments is Figure 14A the reverse rotating rod type rotating barrel 13h incorporated into Figure 10A and 10B the three (3) bristle position ridge mechanical arrangement in the handle / chassis 10b. Another embodiment is Figure 10A and 10B the barrel 4a' with perforations incorporated into Figure 14A the fixed elliptical channel guide rail mechanical arrangement in the handle / chassis 13k.

[0117] Figure 14A This embodiment of the present invention uses twelve (12) reverse rotating rods 13a and twelve (12) bristle spans 2a'. Other variants of this embodiment can be arranged by varying the number of reverse rotating rods 13a and bristle spans 2a' used in each variant. These alternative embodiments can feature three (3) or more reverse rotating rods 13a and bristle spans 2a'. Figure 14B An embodiment using four reverse rotating rods 13a' and four bristle spans 2a' is depicted. Figure 14C A gear end view of a rod barrel using six (6) rods 13a' and six (6) bristle spans 2a' is depicted.

[0118] Figure 14B With Figure 14AThe bristle span 2a' has been changed to a bristle bundle span 14a, instead of spaced individual bristles of bristle span 2a'. Any embodiment of the rotating brush described herein can be replaced with a bristle bundle or any combination of one or more bristles from a variety of currently available brushes. Each embodiment may also include other simple modifications. For example, in Figures 2A to 10B The previously described embodiment can be replaced by 12 rows of individual perforations with 12 open longitudinal channels, the 12 open longitudinal channels having approximately the same transverse dimensions, but will be a single (1) continuous longitudinal opening that closes only at the distal and proximal ends of the tube. Figure 3B , 1 The internal bristle rings of h, etc., can also be obtained from Figures 2A-4 Remove from the middle. Figures 5A-10B The bobbin 10a of the embodiment will need to include Figures 2A-4 The bristle guide 1g feature of the embodiment. The appearance and function of the open channel perforation are very similar to... Figures 13A-14A The opening between the rods of the rod-shaped tube described in the embodiments is a fixed rather than rotating rod.

[0119] The number of bristle spans and Figures 2A-10B The number of overlapping rows of perforations can be varied by simple changes to the relevant mechanisms to present more embodiment options for actuating three or more bristle spans and barrel perforations.

[0120] Any embodiment of the reverse rotating rod brush can use a tube instead of a solid rod or a solid heating rod, and the tube may include perforations that allow hot air to move through.

[0121] Another variation of the invention relates to a novel hair curler. For example... Figure 15A As in the preferred embodiment, the presentation of this variant involves removing Figure 14B The bristle span 14a and related mechanical aspects, as well as the removal of the sliding channel 13f' from the bar and bristle flange 13d', reposition the current outer bar flange 15a to a position closer to the opposing bar flange 15a and handle 15b. Figure 15A A multi-barrel tube 15d consisting of four (4) counter-rotating rods 15c is depicted. Other curling iron embodiments may use two (2) or more counter-rotating rods 15c. Figure 15B This is a gear end view of a two (2) rods 15c' and a multi-rod cylinder 15d' arrangement.

[0122] The novelty of this hair curler embodiment lies in the adjustment applied to the hair wrapped in... Figure 15AThe heat of the opportunity for the hair 14b (or other material that the conditioning is desired) around the multi-barrel 15d. This heat conditioning manifests as a more even heat distribution throughout the wrapped band of hair 14b. The opportunity occurs in two (2) ways. Way one (1) provides the opportunity to prevent mechanical wrapping of the hair 14b or material wrapped outside of the common bar arrangement while maintaining the movement of the hair 14b on the multi-barrel. Way two (2) provides the opportunity to pulse heat into the hair 14b or material wrapped around the multi-barrel.

[0123] Way one (1) becomes easier due to the rotating multi-barrel non-circular shape continuously changing position under the wrapped hair 14b or material, for example Figure 15A A four (4) bar arrangement is depicted, which forms a (from barrel end view) rotating rounded square, or (from Figure 15A perspective view) rectangular cuboid shape under the wrapped hair 14b or material. This continuous motion can be extended to include continuous and subtle side-to-side lateral motion as well as continuous separation of individual strands and locks making up the band beyond the vertical motion of the entire wrapped band of hair. This side-to-side movement can be achieved by including various surface textures into the shape of each bar. Figure 15C A helical, sharp, bolt-type thread surface texture is depicted covering the bar surface. When considering an even number of bars in the multi-bar configuration, for example Figure 15A a four (4) bar configuration, such a thread structure can preferably be reversed on two (2) of the bars, presenting a configuration where each bar will have a bar on either side of it, the threads spiraling in opposite directions. As each individual bar of the multi-bar rotates in the opposite direction of the overall rotation of the multi-bar, some of the hair wrapped on the multi-bar will inevitably slide into the valleys of the thread texture. As this sliding occurs, each thread pattern of each bar rotates and will move the hair-occupying valley to one side. As each of the bars currently observed has threads of opposite direction on either side of the bar, the hair-occupying valley of each of these bars will move laterally in opposite directions to the center bar. This balanced side-to-side motion of the hair will continue and finely separate and re-separate the wrapped hair as it cycles in and out of the threads.

[0124] Figure 15D is another example of a surface texture depicted as a staggered protrusion point-like surface texture, which likewise will achieve this side-to-side movement and separation of strands and locks.

[0125] Since the shape formed by the different number of barrels that can be included in the multi-barrel rotates under the hair or other material that is wrapped around the barrels, the curl shape created by the rotating barrels is circular regardless of the shape of the rotation, provided that the barrels continue to rotate when the hair is released. Another curl shape option is to stop the rotating barrels and leave the hair on the non-rotating barrels for a period of time or not to rotate the barrels at all.

[0126] Another implication of including surface texture on each of the rods is the fact that any given cross section of any one bundle or strand of hair that is circulating in contact with the heating surface will be partially surrounded by the heating surface. This effect is evident but not limited to Figure 15C The thread texture depicted in the middle. This results in the continuous re-separation of the hair bundle and sliding into the valleys formed by the threads. The valleys constitute a multi-lateral heating surface.

[0127] Mode two (2) pulses heat into the wrapped hair or material as the multi-rod rotates under the wrapped hair or material, any given cross section of the wrapped hair or material does not come in continuous contact with any heating surface of any rod during any reasonably long time increment. The rate of intermittent contact of the hair or material with the heating rods can be adjusted by changing the number of rods that comprise the multi-rod and / or by adjusting the speed of rotation of the multi-rod. Also, the total number of rods that can supply heat can be less. The heating mode can be of any known type, with blow-drying being the preferred embodiment. Furthermore, less than the total number of rods can be cooled using one or more of the various types of refrigeration technology that are currently available, whether it is blowing cold air or directly cooling the various materials that form the rods. Alternatively, some rods will be cooled, some will not, and some can be neither heated nor cooled.

[0128] Figures 13A-13C A device is shown that rotates the barrel of rods in one direction and rotates the individual rods in the opposite direction to avoid the tangling problem described above. These figures also show a device that moves the bristles into and out of the space between the rods, similar to the other embodiments described above that move the bristles into and out of the perforations on the barrel. Figure 15A -D shows a device that rotates the rods collectively in one direction while rotating each rod individually in the opposite direction to that direction and without bristles as well as a device that moves the rods relative to the barrel.

[0129] For the embodiments described in conjunction Figures 1-12C with the preferred embodiment of the application, while hair is the preferred material for engagement with the Figures 13A-15C bristle-containing device of the embodiments described, any material that needs to be operated and / or treated using the rod and bristle embodiments or the rotating rod device without bristles is a candidate for use with the device of the application.

[0130] While human hair is the ideal candidate for use with the various embodiments of the present invention, the apparatus of the present invention can also be used on animal hair, such as grooming a horse's tail, long-haired dogs and cats, etc.

[0131] Figure 16A A unique type of hair clip is described that is incorporated into the front of the handle / chassis portion of a multi-bar rotary curler and is manipulated by the operator's thumb to hold the hair clip against one or more individual bars of the multi-bar curler. More than one unique clip can be incorporated into one multi-bar curler device.

[0132] Typically, spring-loaded hinged clips are incorporated into curlers. The clip mechanism is typically hinged at the front of the handle, the hair-trimming portion extends forward and away from the handle, and the clip mechanism's clip-lifting (button) portion extends rearward over the handle a short distance above the majority of the bars. This type of clip remains on the bar whether it is engaged with the bar between which the hair is to be clipped or not. Furthermore, the preferred clip mechanism will rotate with the bar when the clip is engaged with the hair on the multi-use curler or when the clip is not engaged. Standard clips lack the functionality to meet these preferred requirements.

[0133] Figure 16A -C describes the ideal preferred hair clip arrangement for multi-bar curler embodiments. This clip embodiment can be incorporated into any type of curler currently available.

[0134] Unlike the hinged type of clip, the present multi-bar curler variant (as shown in Figure 16A employs a clip body 16b that slides in and out of the distal front edge of the handle / chassis 15b of the barrel mechanism portion 16c. The clip body is closely conforming in transverse profile to the surface shape of the individual multi-bar rod. The clip body 16b needs to fully retract into the handle chassis portion 16c.

[0135] Reference is now made to Figure 16A and 16B and when the multi-bar is not rotating, the operator engages the clip body 16b by pushing the slide button 16d forward with the thumb. (See Figure 16B ) When the clip body lugs 16e are seated within the clip ring 16f along the clip ring lug channel 16g, the clip body slides forward against the individual multi-bar rod 15c while the bottom surface of the clip body 16b length remains in contact with the outer surface 15c of the rod 15c. As the operator continues to push the slide button 16d forward, the operator will feel a click as the raised catch 16h located on the top surface of the slide button ring arm 16i slides past the catch mate located on the inner surface of the barrel mechanism portion of the housing 16j. It is necessary to conceive the location of the "catch mate" as the portion of the housing 16j that has the catch mate feature is not shown in Figure 16AThe portion of the display housing that is shown obstructs the view of the internal mechanism. Continued forward pushing of the slide button 16d past the click 16h emits a click sound that causes the front of the clip body 16b to lift away from the multi-barrel 15c at an angle. (See Figure 16C The lift of the clip body 16b is seen. This occurs when the clip body lugs 16e are attached to the clip body 16b at a forward angle. As the operator continues to push the slide button 16d forward, this forward angled placement of the lugs 16e causes the top front edge of each lug 16e to first contact the front inside surface of the clip ring lug channel 16g. Further pushing will cause the bottom front of each lug 16e to also contact the front inside surface of the clip ring lug channel 16g, causing the clip body 16b to lift away from the multi-barrel 15c at a forward angle. The clip ring lug channel 16g is wide enough to accommodate the slight pivoting action of the clip body lugs 16e. This clip body 16b lift action (see Figure 16C ) allows the operator to place the end or other portion of the hair between the clip body 16b and the multi-barrel 15c. Once there is a portion of hair 16a between the clip body 16b and the barrel 15c, the operator will release the pressure on the slide button 16d, and the clip body 16b will partially retract into the barrel mechanism portion 16c of the handle by the tension of the clip spring 161 until the opposing surfaces of the two clicks 16h meet. The clip body 16b sliding back to the click 16h point causes the raised portion 16k of the top surface of the clip body 16b to contact the front edge 16m of the barrel mechanism portion 16c of the housing 16j (see Figure 16C ). This causes the clip body 16b to clamp down on the portion of hair 16a.

[0136] As the clip body 16b clamps down on the portion of hair 16a, the operator will press the button to cause the multi-barrel to rotate. As the multi-barrel rotates, the clip body 16b also rotates because the clip body 16b is still clamped to the hair 16a. (See Figure 16C ) This occurs as the clip body 16b remains in place on the barrel 15c because it occupies the clip excess channel 16n in the outer edge of the recessed front barrel flange 15a. Another factor that allows the clip body 16b to rotate with the multi-barrel is that as the raised portion 16k of the clip body 16b remains in contact with the front edge 16m of the barrel mechanism portion 16c of the housing 16j, the clip body lugs 16e simply rotate around the inside perimeter of the clip ring lug channel 16g.

[0137] At the same time as the above mechanical actions, as the operator pushes the slide button 16d forward, the inner gear 13i’ disengages from the barrel gear 13b’ and the rear barrel flange 15a because the inner gear 13i’ is a fixed feature of the clip ring 16f.

[0138] Now, with the rod gear 13b' disengaged, the multi-rod cartridge rotates, the hair 16a is clamped between the rod 15c and the clamp body 16b, this arrangement presents a novel multi-cartridge hair auto-winding function. Once the hair 16a is fully wound on the multi-cartridge, the operator simply presses the slide button 16d, thus disengaging the mating catch 16h. After this action, the slide ring 16f slides back to the rest position (due to the tension of the clamp spring 16i), the clamp body 16b retracts and the rod gear 13b' re-engages with the internal gear 13i'. The operator can press the multi-cartridge rotation button again, the cartridge will rotate under the wound hair without further winding the hair, and controlled and more evenly distributed heat will be applied to the wound hair. Once this operation is completed, the operator simply slides the hair forward on the cartridge, thus completely releasing the hair from the rotating multi-cartridge curler.

[0139] In summary, Figure 16A The embodiment shown by -C is an example of adding a slide clamp to the multi-rod embodiment, where the clamp body of the slide clamp secures the hair or other material to one of the rods, so that the material is wound on the rod. This mechanism describes a means of preventing the rotation of the multiple rods when the slide clamp is extended, i.e., the longitudinal movement of the internal gear 13i' to disengage the rod gear 13b' from the internal gear 13i', while still allowing the cartridge 16c to rotate the multiple rods together in order to wind the hair or other material around the stationary rods, and then allowing the multiple rods to rotate while the rod gear 13b' re-engages with the internal gear 13i' by moving the slide clamp to its retracted position, so that the cartridge rotates. Figure 16A -C also shows a means for pivotally moving the slide clamp between open and closed positions to clamp the hair or other material. That is, by the special configuration of the clamp body 16b and its lugs 16e, the slide button 16d, the clamp ring lug channel 16g, the clamp spring 16i, the catch 16h, and the raised portion 16k, the slide clamp can be pivotally moved between an open position, where the hair or other material can be placed, and a closed position, where the hair or other material is held in place for winding or other processing.

[0140] The last feature to be introduced is the multi-cartridge joint retainer ( Figure 16C , 16o). This feature prevents the hair from sliding between the individual rods of the multi-cartridge. Each leg 16p of the retainer 16o can be pivotally seated (unsecured) to each tip of each multi-cartridge rod 15c. This pivotally mounted arrangement allows the retainer 16o to rotate with the multi-cartridge while allowing each rod 15c to rotate in the opposite direction of the multi-cartridge rotation.

[0141] It should be understood that the patterns shown for embodiments using a retention spring (where the bristles can all enter, all exit, or partially enter and partially exit) can be interchanged with the patterns associated with a channel guide (where some bristles extend beyond the bar and some bristles retract or do not extend beyond the bar).

[0142] Any of the embodiments described herein can be interchanged or combined, presenting various different embodiments. An example of such an interchange has been described previously. Another example of such an interchange is to combine any of the retractable bristle embodiments with Figure 4 A-14B embodiments (capable of full or partial bristle extension and full retraction) with Figures 15A-16C the multi-cylinder curling iron embodiments of A-14B. This example presents a hybrid rotary brush / multi-cylinder rotary curling iron hair styling appliance.

Claims

1. A material processing device, comprising: Multiple rods, which are arranged circumferentially as part of a rod tube; A handle, which is attached to the rod cylinder for rotatably supporting the rod cylinder; A device for rotating the rod cylinder in a first direction; A means for rotating each of the plurality of rods independently of the rod cylinder in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and The plurality of rods are arranged such that during use of the material handling equipment, the plurality of rods contact the material, and the material contacted by the plurality of rods is wound away from the plurality of rods along the second direction.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The rods are arranged to form one of the following shapes: square tube, rectangular tube, triangular tube, elliptical tube, crescent tube, or cylindrical tube.

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein two, four, six or twelve levers are used.

4. The device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising means for delivering heated or cooled air to one or more of the plurality of rods.

5. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the surface of one or more rods has a texture, including a spiral texture or a dotted texture.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein each rod is coated with a non-stick coating.

7. The device according to claim 6, wherein the non-stick coating is polytetrafluoroethylene.

8. The device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a retainer attached to the distal end of each of the plurality of bars, the retainer preventing material from entering between the plurality of bars from the distal end of each of the plurality of bars.

9. The device of claim 8, wherein the retainer further comprises a plurality of legs, one end of each leg being rotatably attached to the distal end of each rod and the other ends of the plurality of legs being joined together to prevent material from entering between the plurality of rods from the distal ends of the plurality of rods.

10. A method of bonding materials, comprising: Provide the device according to claim 1; and Rotate the barrel and the rod so that the rod can engage the material.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the material being bonded is human or animal hair.

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