Hair care appliance

Abstract

A hair care appliance has an air inlet, an air outlet and an airflow generator for generating an airflow from the air inlet to the air outlet. The hair care appliance has a signal generator configured to generate a signal indicative of hair contacting the hair care appliance. The airflow generator comprises a first operating mode in which the airflow generator generates the airflow at a first flow rate and a second operating mode in which the airflow generator generates the airflow at a second flow rate greater than the first flow rate. The airflow generator is configured to operate in the first operating mode in the absence of the signal and to operate in the second operating mode in the presence of the signal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a hair care appliance, a detachable accessory for the hair care appliance, and a handle unit for the hair care appliance. Background Technology

[0002] Hair care devices are typically used to treat or style hair, and some hair care devices use airflow to treat or style hair. To provide versatility for treating and styling hair, some hair care devices provide airflow at variable speeds. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a hair care appliance is provided, comprising: an air inlet; an air outlet; an airflow generator for generating an airflow from the air inlet to the air outlet; and a signal generator configured to generate a signal indicating that hair is in contact with the hair care appliance; wherein the airflow generator includes a first operating mode and a second operating mode, wherein in the first operating mode the airflow generator generates an airflow at a first flow rate, and in the second operating mode the airflow generator generates an airflow at a second flow rate greater than the first flow rate, and the airflow generator is configured to operate in the first operating mode in the absence of a signal, and to operate in the second operating mode in the presence of a signal.

[0004] The hair care appliance according to the first aspect of the invention may be advantageous because the airflow generator operates in a first operating mode with a first flow rate when there is no signal indicating that the hair is in contact with the hair care appliance, for example, when the hair is not in contact with the hair care appliance, and operates in a second operating mode with a second, higher flow rate when there is a signal indicating that the hair is in contact with the hair care appliance, for example, when the hair is indeed in contact with the hair care appliance. This can provide automatic switching of the hair care appliance between the first and second operating modes of the airflow generator, which can provide an enhanced user experience, for example, by not requiring the user to manually switch between the first and second operating modes during use.

[0005] Furthermore, when using known hair care appliances that can operate at different flow rates, users can typically simply set the hair care appliance to a high flow rate mode for the duration of the styling activity, given the need to manually switch between operating modes with different flow rates. This can provide inefficient operation and, further, potentially less control over hair styling. For example, when the hair care appliance is set to a high flow rate mode before contacting the hair, already styled hair may be disturbed by the high flow rate as the appliance moves toward the hair before the high flow rate is needed. The hair care appliance according to the first aspect of the invention can provide more efficient operation and enhanced control over hair styling because the hair care appliance switches between operating modes with different flow rates in response to a signal indicating that the hair is in contact with the appliance.

[0006] The first flow rate can include a zero flow rate, for example, where the airflow generator is configured not to generate airflow in a first operating mode. A zero flow rate ensures that the airflow does not interact with the hair until needed. The first flow rate can also include a non-zero flow rate. A non-zero flow rate can provide improved heater response time compared to a zero flow rate.

[0007] The second flow rate may include a flow rate selected by the user, such as a flow rate selected from multiple available flow rates by the user operating the user interface of the hair care device when the hair care device is in the first operating mode.

[0008] The signal can indicate physical contact between the hair and the hair care device, or it can indicate potential contact between the hair and the hair care device. The signal generator can be configured to generate a signal when the hair is no more than 1 cm, 0.5 cm, or 0.25 cm away from the hair care device. Such a distance can be considered sufficient for the hair to be close enough to ensure the operation of the airflow generator in the second operating mode. The signal generator can be configured to generate a signal when the hair makes physical contact with the hair care device. The signal generator can be configured to generate a signal when a predetermined volume of hair makes physical contact with the hair care device. This signal can indicate the contact between the hair and the hair care device, as well as the force applied by the hair to the hair care device. The signal generator can be configured to generate a signal when the hair makes contact with the hair care device and when the hair applies force to the hair care device.

[0009] The signal generator can be configured to generate another signal indicating that the hair is not in contact with the hair care appliance, and the airflow generator can be configured to operate in a first operating mode in the presence of this other signal. The other signal may include a zero-value or a non-zero-value signal.

[0010] Hair care appliances may include multiple bristles for contact with the hair, and a signal generator may be configured to generate a signal when the hair contacts the multiple bristles. Providing multiple bristles increases the flexibility of hair styling while also ensuring that the signal generator has a bristle-shaped engagement mechanism for triggering signal generation.

[0011] The signal generator may include a sensor for detecting the presence of hair, and the signal generator may be configured to generate a signal based on the sensor's output. Using a sensor (e.g., a digital sensor) to generate the signal output, upon which the output (i.e., a trigger) is based, can provide a system with fewer moving parts, and is therefore less prone to failure than a signal generator whose trigger is provided, for example, by a mechanical mechanism. The sensor may include a proximity sensor, which may allow a signal to be generated when hair is within a predetermined threshold distance of the hair care appliance. The sensor may include a capacitive sensor, such as a capacitive touch sensor.

[0012] Hair care appliances may include a movable member configured to move in response to contact with hair, and the movement of the movable member can act as a trigger for a signal generator to produce a signal. Using a movable member as a trigger for a signal generator provides a simple and relatively inexpensive mechanical mechanism for triggering the provision of a signal in response to contact with hair during use. The movable member can be configured to move in response to contact with hair and in response to a force exerted by the hair on the hair care appliance. The movable member can be configured to contact the hair such that the force exerted by the hair on the hair care appliance causes movement of the movable member.

[0013] The movable member can be pivotally or rotatably mounted to a fixed part of, for example, a hair care appliance, and the pivoting or rotation of the movable member upon contact with hair can cause a signal generator to produce a signal. Multiple bristles can be located on the movable member, such that engagement of the hair with the multiple bristles, for example, the pulling or pushing force exerted by the hair on the multiple bristles, causes movement of the movable member. The movable member can include a bristle pad, for example, a pad having multiple bristles extending outwardly from the pad, the pad being pivotally or rotatably mounted.

[0014] The signal generator may include an engagement mechanism for engaging a movable member, which may include a rest position and an engaged position. In the rest position, the movable member is spaced apart from the engagement mechanism; in the engaged position, the movable member is in contact with the engagement mechanism, and the movable member may be biased to the rest position. This ensures that the default position of the movable member is the rest position, where the movable member is spaced apart from the engagement mechanism, thus the default configuration of the hair care appliance is a non-signal-generating configuration, and the airflow generator operates in a first operating mode. This ensures effective operation by providing a higher airflow rate only when needed (e.g., when hair is in contact with the hair care appliance).

[0015] The movable component can be biased to a stationary position by an airflow at a first airflow rate. This eliminates the need for any additional mechanical parts to hold the movable component in the stationary position. The biasing force provided by the airflow at the first airflow rate is sufficient to prevent movement of the movable component until a predetermined force is applied to the movable component, for example until a predetermined volume of hair physically contacts the hair care appliance, and the hair care appliance moves relative to the hair while maintaining contact with the hair. Biasing the movable component ensures that the movable component returns to the stationary position without contacting the hair, and therefore the airflow generator returns to the first operating mode when the hair care appliance loses contact with the hair during use.

[0016] The movable component can be biased to a resting position using an elastically deformable component, such as a spring. The biasing force of the elastically deformable component is sufficient to prevent movement of the movable component until a predetermined force is applied to it, for example, until a predetermined volume of hair physically contacts the hair care appliance, and the hair care appliance moves relative to the hair while maintaining contact with it. Biasing the movable component ensures that it returns to a resting position without contacting the hair, and therefore, when the hair care appliance loses contact with the hair during use, the airflow generator returns to the first operating mode.

[0017] The engagement mechanism may include a switch that, when engaged by a movable member, changes the state of the circuit, such as opening or closing, and this change in circuit state can lead to the generation of a signal. Using such a switch ensures that a signal is generated only when the state of the circuit changes, i.e., when the movable member is moved by hair during use. The signal generator may include a circuit, with one or more components configured to change its output, i.e., change its output signal, in response to a change in its input. For example, the signal generator may include a modulator configured to modulate the output signal differently in response to a change in the input, or it may include an AND gate operable to change its output in response to a change in the logic value of its input, wherein the input is determined based on the contact between the hair and the hair care appliance.

[0018] The switch may include a push-button switch, which is pressed when engaged by a movable member. Such a push-button switch can provide a relatively simple, inexpensive, and reliable engagement mechanism.

[0019] The switch may include a pair of electrical contacts spaced apart from each other, and a conductive member located on a movable member, the conductive member bridging the pair of electrical contacts when the movable member moves in response to contact with hair. In this way, the circuit can be closed when the movable member moves in response to contact with hair. This type of switch may require less physical space than, for example, a push-button switch, which may allow for a reduction in the size of at least a portion of the hair care appliance.

[0020] Conductive components can be elastically deformable. Using elastically deformable conductive components ensures electrical connection and can absorb tolerances introduced during manufacturing when movable components move in response to contact with hair.

[0021] The air outlet can be at least partially defined by a movable member, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the air outlet can be increased in response to movement of the movable member in contact with the hair. This can be advantageous because a relatively small air outlet can be defined when the hair care appliance is not in contact with the hair, such as when the airflow generator is in a first operating mode, and a relatively large air outlet can be defined only when needed, such as only when the hair care appliance is in contact with the hair, such as when the airflow generator is in a second operating mode. This can improve efficiency by providing a large airflow from the hair care appliance only when needed during use.

[0022] Hair care appliances may include a fixed portion to which a movable member is mounted. The fixed portion includes a hole in which the movable member is located, and movement of the movable member within the hole can change the size of an air outlet. The air outlet may be defined between the edge of the hole and the edge of the movable member.

[0023] When the airflow generator is in the first operating mode, the air outlet can be substantially blocked. This prevents the airflow from interacting with the hair during use when the hair care appliance is close to the hair. The air outlet may include a slot extending longitudinally along the hair care appliance.

[0024] Hair care appliances may include multiple movable components configured to move independently in response to contact with hair, and the movement of any one of the multiple movable components can act as a trigger for a signal generator to produce a signal. Using multiple movable components can provide a more reliable triggering mechanism than, for example, a single movable component. The signal generator may include an engagement mechanism for engaging each of the multiple movable components.

[0025] Multiple movable components can be spaced apart around the hair care device. This ensures that the airflow generator can operate in a second operating mode, regardless of where the hair contacts the hair care device.

[0026] Multiple movable components may be equidistantly spaced around the periphery of the hair care device. The end portion of the hair care device may typically be cylindrical or conical, and multiple movable components may be circumferentially spaced around the end portion.

[0027] The signal generator can be configured to wirelessly transmit signals to an airflow generator, such as to the controller of the airflow generator. Wireless signal transmission to the airflow generator reduces the number of electrical connections required between the signal generator and the airflow generator, which is particularly advantageous when the signal generator is located in a detachable accessory and the airflow generator is located in the handle unit of the hair care appliance. Specifically, this eliminates the need for a physical electrical connection between the handle unit and the detachable accessory, allowing for a simpler and more reliable connection and communication between them.

[0028] The signal generator may include a signal transmitter, for example, housed in a detachable accessory, and the hair care appliance may include a signal receiver, for example, housed in a handle unit. The receiver may communicate with an airflow generator via a communication line, for example, with a controller of the airflow generator. The hair care appliance may include an RFID reader and a tag pair, for example, an RFID tag located in a detachable accessory and an RFID reader located in the handle unit.

[0029] Hair care appliances may include a power transmitter for sending power to a signal generator, for example, for wirelessly sending power to the signal generator. The power transmitter and the signal transmitter may include the same components, such as a transceiver.

[0030] Hair care appliances may include a handle unit and an accessory. An airflow generator is disposed within the handle unit, and the accessory includes a contact portion for contacting the hair. The accessory defines an air outlet and houses a signal generator. Providing the signal generator in the accessory, while positioning the airflow generator within the handle unit of the hair care appliance, allows the accessory to be removed and / or replaced by accessories providing different functions. This can provide a more versatile hair care appliance offering an improved user experience. The accessory can be detachably attached to the handle unit.

[0031] The accessory may include a proximal end for attaching to the handle unit and a distal end opposite the proximal end. The proximal end is configured to receive airflow from an airflow generator, and an air outlet extends in a direction between the proximal and distal ends. The accessory may include an integrated circuit of a signal generator disposed at the distal end and a transmitter disposed at the proximal end. This allows the integrated circuit to be removed from the proximal end of the removable accessory that receives airflow from the handle unit, which can reduce interference with the airflow passing through the removable accessory during use. Positioning the transmitter at the proximal end also allows the transmitter to be closer to the handle unit than, for example, an arrangement where the transmitter is positioned at the distal end. This can facilitate the supply of power via the transmitter, for example, to power the electronic circuitry of the signal generator.

[0032] The signal transmitter can be located at the near end, and electrical connections can extend from the integrated circuit to the signal transmitter. The electrical connections can extend substantially parallel to the air outlet. The signal transmitter may include a coil arranged in a ring around the near end.

[0033] Hair care appliances may include a heater for heating airflow. The heater may include a first operating mode and a second operating mode. In the first operating mode, the heater operates at a first temperature, and in the second operating mode, the heater operates at a second temperature greater than the first temperature. The heater can be configured to operate in its first operating mode in the absence of a signal and in its second operating mode in the presence of a signal. This can be advantageous because, during use, when the hair care appliance comes into contact with the hair, it allows the heater to automatically switch from a lower temperature to a higher temperature, providing an improved user experience compared to devices that, for example, require the user to manually switch between temperature settings.

[0034] This also ensures that the heater operates at a relatively high temperature only when needed (i.e., when the hair care appliance comes into contact with the hair), and this can provide a more efficient and / or safer device than embodiments where the heater always operates at a relatively high temperature.

[0035] According to a second aspect of the invention, an accessory for a hair care appliance is provided, the accessory comprising an airflow generator housed in a handle unit, the accessory including an air outlet, a contact portion for contacting hair, and a signal generator for generating a signal indicating that the hair is in contact with the contact portion.

[0036] The accessories may include multiple bristles for contacting the hair, and a signal generator may be configured to generate a signal when the hair contacts the multiple bristles.

[0037] The accessory may include a movable member configured to move in response to contact with hair, and the movement of the movable member may act as a trigger for a signal generator to produce a signal.

[0038] The signal generator may include an engagement mechanism for engaging a movable member, the movable member including a rest position and an engaged position, in which the movable member is spaced apart from the engagement mechanism, and in the engaged position, the movable member is in contact with the engagement mechanism and the movable member is biased to the rest position.

[0039] The accessory may include multiple movable components configured to move independently in response to contact with the hair, and the movement of any one of the multiple movable components may act as a trigger for a signal generator to produce a signal.

[0040] The signal generator can be configured to wirelessly transmit signals to the airflow generator.

[0041] According to a third aspect of the invention, a handle unit for a hair care appliance is provided, the handle unit including a receiver configured to receive a signal instructing hair to contact the hair care appliance, and an airflow generator for generating an airflow through the hair care appliance, wherein the airflow generator includes a first operating mode and a second operating mode, in the first operating mode the airflow generator generates an airflow at a first flow rate, and in the second operating mode the airflow generator generates an airflow at a second flow rate greater than the first flow rate, and the airflow generator is configured to operate in the first operating mode in the absence of a signal, and to operate in the second operating mode in the presence of a signal.

[0042] Where appropriate, optional features of one aspect of the invention may be applied equivalently to other aspects of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0043] Figure 1a A hair care appliance is shown as an example;

[0044] Figure 1b yes Figure 1a A schematic cross-sectional view of the handle unit of a hair care device;

[0045] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the accessories of the hair care appliance in Figure 1;

[0046] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the communication between the electrical components of the hair care appliance shown in Figure 1;

[0047] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing a signal generator used with the hair care appliance in Figure 1;

[0048] Figure 5 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another signal generator used with the hair care appliance of Figure 1; and

[0049] Figure 6 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another signal generator used with the hair care appliance of Figure 1. Detailed Implementation

[0050] exist Figure 1a The image schematically illustrates a hair care appliance according to the invention, typically designated 10.

[0051] The hair care appliance 10 includes a handle unit 12 and an accessory 100 removably attached to the handle unit 12.

[0052] like Figure 1b As schematically shown, the handle unit 12 includes a housing 14, an airflow generator 16, a heater 18, and a control unit 20.

[0053] The housing 14 is tubular and includes an air inlet 22 and an air outlet 24. Airflow is drawn into the housing 14 through the air inlet 22 by the airflow generator 16 and exits the housing 14 through the air outlet 24. The airflow generator 16 is housed within the housing 14 and includes an impeller 26 driven by an electric motor 28. A heater 18 is also housed within the housing 14 and includes a heating element 30 to optionally heat the airflow.

[0054] The control unit 20 includes electronic circuitry for the user interface 32, the RFID reader 34, and the control module 36. The user interface 32 is disposed on the outer surface of the housing 14 and is used to turn the hair care appliance 10 on and off, select the flow rate (e.g., high, medium, and low), and select the airflow temperature (e.g., hot or cold). In the example of Figure 1, the user interface includes multiple sliding switches, but other forms of the user interface 32 are also conceivable, such as buttons, dials, or touchscreens.

[0055] The RFID reader 34 includes an antenna 38 and a reader module 40. The RFID reader 34 interrogates the RFID tag 104, which forms part of the accessory 100. As will be described in more detail below, the accessory 100 includes a signal generator 102 configured to generate a signal indicating hair contact with the accessory 100. The accessory 100 includes the RFID tag 104, and data returned by the RFID tag 104 indicates the presence or absence of the signal. Therefore, the RFID reader 34 outputs data to the control module 36 indicating whether the accessory 100 is attached to the handle unit 12, and if attached, whether hair is in contact with the accessory 100.

[0056] The control module 36 is responsible for controlling the airflow generator 16 and the heater 18 in response to input from the user interface 32. For example, in response to input from the user interface 32, the control module 36 can control the power or speed of the airflow generator 16 to regulate the airflow velocity, and control the power of the heater 18 to regulate the airflow temperature.

[0057] The control module 36 also controls the airflow generator 16 in response to input from the RFID reader 34, and in some examples controls the heater 18. As described above, the RFID reader 34 outputs data indicating that hair is in contact with the accessory 100. The control module 36 uses this data to control the airflow generator 16, for example, operating the airflow generator 16 in a first operating mode and a second operating mode. In the first operating mode, the airflow generator 16 generates airflow at a first flow rate, and in the second operating mode, the airflow generator 16 generates airflow at a second flow rate greater than the first flow rate. Specifically, when the data indicates that hair is in contact with the accessory 100, the control module 36 operates the airflow generator 16 in the second operating mode, and when the data does not indicate that hair is in contact with the accessory 100, the control module 36 operates the airflow generator in the first operating mode.

[0058] In some examples, the first flow rate of the first operating mode is a zero flow rate, wherein the airflow generator 16 is configured not to provide airflow in the first operating mode. In other examples, the first flow rate of the first operating mode is non-zero, but a relatively low flow rate. In some examples, before the user brings the hair care appliance 10, particularly the attachment 100, into contact with the hair, the user selects a second flow rate from one of a plurality of predetermined flow rates, for example, using the user interface 32.

[0059] When using known hair care appliances that can operate at different flow rates, users often simply set the appliance to a high flow rate mode for the duration of the styling activity, given the need to manually switch between operating modes with different flow rates. This can provide inefficient operation and, further, less control over hair styling. For example, when the hair care appliance is set to a high flow rate mode before contacting the hair, already styled hair may be disturbed by the high flow rate as the appliance moves toward the hair before the high flow rate is needed. The hair care appliance 10 of the present invention mitigates this situation by providing automatic switching between different flow modes in response to a signal indicating that hair is in contact with the hair care appliance 10, as will be discussed below.

[0060] Figure 2 A cross-section of the accessory is schematically shown. As described above, accessory 100 includes a signal generator 102 and an RFID tag 104, the signal generator 102 being configured to generate a signal indicating that hair has come into contact with accessory 100. Accessory 100 also includes a body 106 and a plurality of bristle beds 108.

[0061] The body 106 is generally cylindrical, open at one end and closed at the other. The open end serves as an inlet 110 for the body 106. The body 106 has a plurality of holes 112 within which a brush bed 108 is pivotally mounted. Movement of the brush bed 108 within the holes 112 causes an air outlet 114 of the accessory 100 to selectively open between the longitudinal edge of the brush bed 108 and the holes 112. The exact form of the pivoting is not important, except that it allows the brush bed 108 to move within the holes 112 in the manner described herein. However, it should be noted that each of the brush beds 108 may include an arm connected to a common central connector housed within the body 106, each arm having a pivot point to which the center of the body portion 118 of the brush bed is attached.

[0062] Each bristle bed 108 is biased to a resting position by an airflow at a first flow rate. In other alternative embodiments, each bristle bed 108 may be elastically biased to a resting position by means of an elastic member such as a spring. The bristle bed 108 can be considered as a movable member of the accessory 100, and each bristle bed 108 includes a plurality of bristles 116 erected from the body portion 118. The bristles 116 may come into contact with hair in use, and the engagement of the hair with the bristles 116 causes the body portion 118 to move within a corresponding hole, and thus causes the bristle bed 108 to move within a corresponding hole to open the air outlet 114 and allow air to flow out of the accessory 100. In some examples, the air outlet 114 still exists when the hair is not in contact with the bristles, i.e., when the bristle beds 108 are in their resting configuration, but in this configuration, the air outlet 114 may have a minimal opening size such that only diffused airflow from the air outlet 114 is allowed when not in contact with hair.

[0063] RFID tag 104 includes antenna 120 and integrated circuit 122. In some examples, RFID tag 104 can be considered as part of signal generator 102. Antenna 120 is located within a recess in the wall of body 106 facing the bottom of body 106 and includes a loop coil. Integrated circuit 122 is positioned facing the top of body 106 and is housed within a chamber 124 sealed relative to airflow through body 106. Antenna 120 and integrated circuit 122 are connected by conductive tracks (not shown) disposed along the inner surface of body 106. Integrated circuit 122 includes components typical of RFID tags, such as rectifiers, microcontrollers, and load modulators.

[0064] The RFID tag 104 is activated by an interrogation signal sent by the RFID reader 34. When activated, the RFID tag 104 sends data to the RFID reader 34. The data returned by the RFID tag 104 depends on the signal indicating contact between the hair and the accessory 100. Specifically, when the signal indicates that the hair is not in contact with the accessory 100, the RFID tag 104 returns first data, and when the signal indicates that the hair is in contact with the accessory 100, the RFID tag 104 returns second data. Thus, the RFID tag 104 sends data indicating contact between the hair and the accessory 100. The second data may differ from the first data, for example, in any aspect of amplitude, frequency, or waveform.

[0065] Figure 3 A schematic diagram illustrating the communication between the RFID tag, RFID reader 34, and other electrical components of the hair care appliance is shown.

[0066] The signal generator 102 can take many forms, but typically includes a sensor that communicates with the integrated circuit 122. The integrated circuit 122 can modulate data in different ways based on the sensor's output, with the modulated data being transmitted to the RFID reader 34 via the antenna 120. In some examples, the modulated data can be interpreted as a signal indicating the presence of hair.

[0067] Figure 4 A first embodiment of the signal generator 102 is shown, wherein the signal generator 102 includes a plurality of capacitive sensors 126 coupled to an integrated circuit 122. The capacitive sensors 126 are elongated in form, and each is disposed on the outer surface of a body 106 between adjacent bristle beds 108. The threshold of the capacitive sensors 126 is set such that hair very close to or in contact with the capacitive sensors 126 is detected. In response to the detection of hair by the capacitive sensors 126, the integrated circuit 122 is able to generate an appropriate signal, and the control module 36 uses this signal to control the airflow generator 16 to operate in a second mode with a relatively high flow rate.

[0068] In an alternative embodiment of attachment 100, when hair comes into contact with the plurality of bristles 116, the signal generator 102 responds to movement of the bristle bed 108 within the orifice 112 to generate a signal indicating that the hair has come into contact with attachment 100. In these embodiments, the signal generator includes an engagement mechanism for engaging with the bristle bed 108.

[0069] Such a coupling mechanism is schematically shown in Figure 5In this circuit, the signal generator 102 includes a plurality of pressable switches 128 forming part of an integrated circuit 122, each pressable switch 128 corresponding to one of the bristle beds 108. The plurality of pressable switches 128 are positioned such that when the bristle beds 108 are in a resting position within the aperture 112, i.e., in use when the plurality of bristles 116 of each bristle bed 108 are not engaged with hair, the pressable switches 128 are not pressed, and such that when the bristle beds 108 move within the aperture 112, i.e., in use when the plurality of bristles 116 of the bristle beds 108 are engaged with hair, the switches are pressed.

[0070] Figure 5 The lower, left, and right brush beds 108 are shown in a stationary position, while the upper brush bed 108 is shown displaced within its orifice 112 and pressing the corresponding pressable switch 128. Here, the upper brush bed 108 has pivoted in a downward-right direction, and airflow A can be discharged through the corresponding air outlet 114, which is formed by the displacement of the brush bed 108 relative to the edge of the corresponding orifice 112, the plane containing the orifice being formed by… Figure 5 The dashed circle in the middle indicates this.

[0071] The pressing and closing of any one of the plurality of push-button switches 128 forms part of the circuitry of integrated circuit 122, which causes integrated circuit 122 to generate a signal indicating that hair has contacted accessory 100. This signal is transmitted via antenna 120 to RFID reader 34 and control module 36, causing control module 36 to operate airflow generator 16 in a second operating mode with a relatively high flow rate.

[0072] Figure 6 An alternative engagement mechanism is schematically illustrated. Here, the signal generator includes a pair of conductive rings 130 spaced apart from each other on the radially outward surface of the cavity 124 housing the integrated circuit 122, which are in electrical contact with the integrated circuit. The radially inward surface of each brush bed 108 includes a conductive member 132 in the form of a conductive rubber sheet.

[0073] When the bristle bed 108 is in a stationary position within the aperture 112, i.e., during use when the bristles 116 of each bristle bed 108 are not engaged with hair, the conductive members 132 of the bristle bed 108 are spaced apart from a pair of conductive rings 130. When the bristle bed 108 moves within the aperture 112, i.e., during use when the bristles 116 of the bristle bed 108 engage with hair and pivot, the conductive members 132 of the bristle bed 108 contact and bridge the pair of conductive rings 130. This closes the circuitry forming part of the integrated circuit 122, causing the integrated circuit 122 to generate a signal indicating hair contact with the accessory 100. This signal is transmitted via the antenna 120 to the RFID reader 34 and the control module 36, causing the control module 36 to operate the airflow generator 16 in a second operating mode with a relatively high flow rate.

[0074] Figure 6 The left brush bed 108 is shown in a stationary position, with the corresponding conductive member 132 spaced apart from a pair of conductive rings 132. Figure 6 The right brush bed 108 is shown in a displaced pivot position, wherein the corresponding conductive member 132 contacts and bridges a pair of conductive rings 132.

[0075] The combination of a pair of conductive rings 130 and a plurality of conductive members 132 can be considered as a switch. Applying conductive rubber to the conductive members 132 can absorb any tolerances that may be introduced during manufacturing and can ensure that contact is formed between the conductive members 132 and the pair of conductive rings 130 during use when the brush bed 108 moves.

[0076] In the above Figure 5 and 6 In each embodiment, the engagement mechanism of the signal generator 102 is located at the closed end of the body 106 of the accessory. This allows the engagement mechanism of the signal generator 102 to be removed from the main airflow path through the accessory 100.

[0077] In each of the above embodiments, automatic switching of the hair care appliance 10 between the first and second operating modes of the airflow generator 16 can be achieved, which can provide an enhanced user experience, for example, by eliminating the need for the user to manually switch between the first and second operating modes during use. Furthermore, given that the hair care appliance 10 switches between operating modes with different flow rates in response to a signal instructing hair to contact the hair care appliance 10, the hair care appliance 10 can provide more efficient operation and enhanced control over hair styling.

[0078] While the above embodiments have focused on modifying the operating mode of the airflow generator 16 in response to a signal instructing hair to contact the hair care appliance 10, it should be understood that, since the control module 36 also controls the heater 18 in some examples, the operating mode of the heater 18 can also be changed in response to a signal instructing hair to contact the accessory 100. For example, in one embodiment, the heater 18 includes a first operating mode and a second operating mode, in which the heater 18 operates at a first temperature and in the second operating mode at a second temperature above the first temperature, and the heater 18 is configured to operate in its first operating mode in the absence of a signal instructing hair to contact the accessory 100, and in its second operating mode in the presence of a signal instructing hair to contact the accessory 100. The signal instructing hair to contact the accessory 100 can be generated by any of the means discussed above.

[0079] In the embodiments discussed earlier herein, a signal indicating hair contact with accessory 100 is provided from signal generator 102 to control module 36 via RFID. In alternative embodiments, it is envisioned that other forms of communication could be utilized, including, for example... Or Near Field Communication (NFC).

[0080] Similarly, although wireless communication methods between signal generator 102 and control module 36 have been discussed so far, it should be understood that embodiments utilizing physical communication connections are also contemplated. For example, handle unit 12 and accessory 100 may include corresponding contacts that define a communication path when the corresponding contacts are connected when accessory 100 is connected to handle unit 12. In such an embodiment, accessory 100 may still include an integrated circuit, and a signal indicating hair contact can be provided from the integrated circuit to control module 36 along the communication path. Here, the signal may include a logic signal, for example, having a value of "0" in the absence of hair contact and a value of "1" in the presence of hair contact, or vice versa; or the signal may include voltage values ​​with different voltages to indicate the presence or absence of hair contact.

[0081] Some embodiments are also envisioned in which the hair care appliance 10 is not comprised of a handle unit 12 and an accessory 100, but rather a single unit, for example, taking the form of a combined handle unit 12 and accessory 100 as described above. In such embodiments, wireless or wired communication can be used between the signal generator 102 and the control module 36, and it is understood that such a single unit can be more easily used for wired communication than, for example, a two-piece unit with a handle unit 12 and an accessory 100 as described above.

Claims

1. A hair care appliance, comprising: Air inlet; Air outlet; An airflow generator is used to generate airflow from the air inlet to the air outlet; as well as A signal generator configured to generate a signal indicating that hair is approaching or in contact with the hair care appliance; The airflow generator includes a first operating mode and a second operating mode. In the first operating mode, the airflow generator generates airflow at a non-zero first flow rate. In the second operating mode, the airflow generator generates airflow at a second flow rate greater than the first flow rate. The airflow generator is configured to operate in the first operating mode in the absence of the signal, and to operate in the second operating mode in the presence of the signal. The hair care appliance includes a movable member configured to move in response to contact with hair, and the movement of the movable member acts as a trigger for the signal generator to generate the signal.

2. The hair care appliance according to claim 1, wherein, The hair care device includes a plurality of bristles for contacting the hair, and the signal generator is configured to generate the signal when the hair contacts the plurality of bristles.

3. The hair care appliance according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The signal generator includes a sensor for detecting the presence of hair, and the signal generator is configured to generate the signal based on the output of the sensor.

4. The hair care appliance according to claim 1, wherein, The signal generator includes an engagement mechanism for engaging the movable member, the movable member having a rest position and an engagement position, in which the movable member is spaced apart from the engagement mechanism, and in the engagement position, the movable member is in contact with the engagement mechanism, and the movable member is biased to the rest position.

5. The hair care appliance according to claim 4, wherein, The engagement mechanism includes a switch that, when engaged by the movable member, changes the state of the circuit, and the change in the state of the circuit results in the provision of the signal.

6. The hair care appliance according to claim 5, wherein, The switch includes a push-button switch that is pressed when engaged by the movable member.

7. The hair care appliance according to claim 5, wherein, The switch includes a pair of electrical contacts spaced apart from each other, and a conductive member located on the movable member, and the conductive member bridges the pair of electrical contacts when the movable member moves in response to contact with hair.

8. The hair care appliance according to claim 7, wherein, The conductive component is elastically deformable.

9. The hair care appliance according to claim 1, wherein, The air outlet is defined at least in part by the movable member, and the movable member increases the cross-sectional area of ​​the air outlet in response to movement in contact with the hair.

10. The hair care appliance of claim 1, wherein the hair care appliance comprises a plurality of movable members configured to move individually in response to contact with hair, and the movement of any one of the plurality of movable members acts as a trigger for the signal generator to generate the signal.

11. The hair care appliance according to claim 10, wherein, The plurality of movable components are spaced apart around the hair care device.

12. The hair care appliance according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The signal generator is configured to wirelessly transmit the signal to the airflow generator.

13. The hair care appliance according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The hair care device includes a handle unit and an accessory. The handle unit is equipped with an airflow generator, and the accessory includes a contact portion for contacting the hair. The accessory defines an air outlet and houses the signal generator.

14. The hair care appliance according to claim 13, wherein, The accessory includes a proximal end for attachment to the handle unit and a distal end opposite the proximal end, the proximal end being configured to receive airflow from the airflow generator, the air outlet extending in a direction between the proximal end and the distal end, the accessory including an integrated circuit of the signal generator disposed at the distal end, and a transmitter for transmitting the signal to the airflow generator, the transmitter being disposed at the proximal end.

15. The hair care appliance according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The hair care device includes a heater for heating the airflow, the heater having a first operating mode and a second operating mode, wherein in the first operating mode the heater operates at a first temperature, and in the second operating mode the heater operates at a second temperature greater than the first temperature, and the heater is configured to operate in its first operating mode in the absence of a signal, and in its second operating mode in the presence of the signal.

16. An accessory for a hair care appliance, the hair care appliance comprising an airflow generator disposed in a handle unit, the accessory comprising an air outlet, a contact portion for contacting hair, and a signal generator for generating a signal indicating that hair is approaching or contacting the contact portion. in, The airflow generator includes a first operating mode and a second operating mode. In the first operating mode, the airflow generator generates airflow at a non-zero first flow rate. In the second operating mode, the airflow generator generates airflow at a second flow rate greater than the first flow rate. The airflow generator is configured to operate in the first operating mode in the absence of the signal and in the second operating mode in the presence of the signal. The accessory includes a movable member configured to move in response to contact with hair, and the movement of the movable member acts as a trigger for the signal generator to produce the signal.

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