Hair styling device

Abstract

The invention relates to a hair styling device (110), in particular to a device which can be used for drying and / or styling hair. The device may be expected to effectively partially straighten curly hair, and may also be used to dry and / or smooth straight hair. The invention provides a hair styling device comprising a first panel (114); and a second panel (116) movable relative to the first panel. When the panels rest together, the panels are spaced apart by a non-zero pitch (S). The device has an electric motor, an impeller, an electric heating element and an airflow channel. The first panel is provided with a first hole communicated with the airflow channel. The second panel is provided with a second hole communicated with the exhaust channel. The first panel and the second panel are corrugated to increase the surface area of the panels and increase the length of a path for hair to pass between the panels.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a hair styling device, and more particularly to a device that can be used to dry and / or style hair. The device is intended to be effective for partially straightening curly hair, commonly known as "hair taming", and can also be used to dry and / or smooth straight hair.

[0002] Although the devices may be used to dry hair and are not intended to style the hair, the term "styling" is used throughout this specification because the devices will typically straighten and / or smooth the hair while drying it, thereby producing some styling effect.

[0003] For convenience the following description will refer to styling hair for females, but it will be appreciated that this also applies to males, and in particular the invention may be used by males as well. Background Art

[0004] It is desirable to dry hair that has been washed or otherwise wet. Although hair will naturally air dry, the style of the hair cannot be controlled when it is naturally dried. Therefore, most women prefer to control the drying process, such as by using a hair dryer to blow hot air through the hair. Generally, the hair is partially dried with a towel before using a hair dryer, so the hair dryer is used to dry damp, not wet hair. When the hair is dried by the hair dryer, the style of the hair can be at least partially controlled by combing the hair.

[0005] Many hair dryers may be equipped with a nozzle to provide a more focused airflow, and a hood to provide a less focused airflow when a particular drying / styling operation is desired.

[0006] It is also desirable to style hair by adding wave or curl to naturally straight hair, or by straightening naturally wavy or curly hair. In order to style hair in this manner, it is necessary to modify some of the chemical bonds that give the hair its natural state. The chemical bonds may be modified chemically by a perming solution, or by the application of heat and / or pressure.

[0007] Many women combine the drying and styling processes. For example, the heat generated by the hair dryer can also be used for styling, such as by curling the hair around a round comb while drying it. An improved comb is known that can be directly connected to a hair dryer so that heated air is blown outward from the core of the comb onto the hair. For example, in US2004 / 0129289, the motor, impeller and heating element (i.e., the hair dryer assembly) are located in the handle of the styling comb. In a further improvement, the curling comb can rotate automatically.

[0008] Many women style their hair using a hair straightener, either after blow-drying the hair as described above, or as the final stage of the drying process. A hair straightener is a specific form of hair styling device that uses a combination of heat, pressure, and tension applied to the hair. Hair straighteners were originally called "flat irons" to reflect the fact that they replicated the action of applying a flat iron to the hair, i.e., pressing the hair iron between a heated "iron" and a flat surface.

[0009] Most hair straighteners include a pair of arms that are hinged to each other, each arm having an electrically heated straightening panel. Each arm has a handle portion that the user can grasp together. With the arms open, the user inserts the proximal or scalp end of a selected hair strand between the arms and then presses the arms together so that the hair strand is pressurized between the straightening panels. The straightener is then moved away from the scalp and the hair strand is heated and pressurized as it passes between the panels. The hair is styled by the heat and pressure applied to the hair by the panels. The hair strand remains heated as it leaves the panels, while the hair strand is subjected to tension between the user's scalp and the panels and remains in tension as it cools. The combined effects of heat and tension are used to straighten the hair.

[0010] Typically, to straighten the hair, the arms are oriented so that the straightening panels are generally perpendicular to the scalp, and the hair strands are pulled in a generally straight direction between the panels. However, the arms may be oriented relative to the scalp so that the hair is forced to bend as it leaves the panels. Although tension is applied to the hair between the user's scalp and the panels, forcing the hair to bend around the relatively sharp edges of the panels as it leaves the panels can increase the wave or curl of the hair strands.

[0011] DE 10 2006 037 647 discloses an improved hair straightener having a pair of additional housings rotatable about the arms to define the bends that the hair must follow when leaving the panel.

[0012] It will be appreciated that the heat and pressure applied by the hair straightener is used to deform (flatten) the cross-sectional shape of the hair. The outer cuticle of human hair comprises multiple layers of flat, thin, overlapping cells or cuticles. Flattening the hair, especially the cuticle, increases the arrangement of the overlapping cuticles, which can increase the reflectivity of the hair and improve the shine of the hair. Many users believe that styling their hair in this manner makes their hair look healthier because using a hair straightener can increase the shine of the hair.

[0013] A corrugated plate clamp is another type of hair styling device. A corrugated plate clamp differs from a hair straightener in that a corrugated plate is used. Also, it differs from a hair straightener in that, in the case of a hair straightener, the hair moves between the straightening plates as the plates are pressed together, whereas in the case of a corrugated plate clamp, the hair is statically clamped between the corrugated plates until the style is set. Thus, the user sequentially styles discrete portions of the hair strand by clamping a portion of the hair strand, then separating the plates and clamping another portion of the hair strand after repositioning the panels along the hair strand, and so on, until all portions of the hair strand have been styled.

[0014] The wave styler that includes the large wave styler works on the same principle as the wave clip, but the amplitude of the waves is greater in order to create larger amplitude waves in the user's hair.

[0015] Thus, a hair straightener and a corkscrew / wave styler have the same features, i.e. both have opposing heated panels, and the same operating principle, i.e. both are that the user applies pressure to the hair between the heated panels to style the hair, but the difference is that with a hair straightener the hair is moved between the panels, whereas with a corkscrew / wave styler the hair is not moved between the panels.

[0016] Other hair styling devices for curling hair are provided, for example WO 2009 / 077747, WO 2012 / 080751 and WO 2013 / 186547. WO 2015 / 132594 provides a device that can be used to curl or straighten hair.

[0017] It will be appreciated that frequent and repeated use of hair styling devices, particularly over-styling of the hair, may damage the hair. For example, frequent and repeated hair deformation by hair straighteners may cause long-term damage to the hair. It is well known that heating the hair to high temperatures and applying high pressures, such as in hair straighteners and curling irons / wave stylers, both of which may cause long-term damage if applied separately, are increased when heat and pressure are applied together.

[0018] WO 2019 / 238961 provides a hair straightener that aims to reduce the possibility of damage by separating the heating and pressure operations to a certain extent, so that the user's hair is subjected to the combined effects of heat and pressure for a shorter time.

[0019] A multifunctional hair styling device using hot air is disclosed in Chinese patent application 105 942 698. The device has two movable arms along which heated air is blown. The airflow can be controlled so that the hot air leaves the arms through relatively large terminal holes at the end of each arm; if the arms are moved against each other, the device can be used in a similar manner to a conventional hair dryer. Alternatively, the airflow can also be directed to a large number of side holes, with the side holes of one arm facing the side holes of the other arm. In this configuration, the device can be used as a hair straightener, in which the hair strands are heated and pressurized when passing between the arms (so-called "pinch styling"). In a third configuration, the arms can be separated and the airflow is directed to the side holes to produce a relatively diffuse hot airflow.

[0020] WO 2020 / 169849 discloses another multifunctional hair styling device, in which a hair straightener is provided with a detachable handle of a hair dryer.

[0021] WO 2020 / 169849 discloses a hair drying and styling device comprising a pair of hinged arms. Each arm has two heating panels, and when in use, the heating panel of one arm presses on the heating panel of the other arm, just like a traditional hair straightener. Each arm has a space between its heating panels, and an air flow channel leads to the space through respective holes. The motor, impeller and heater are located in the air flow channel so that air can be heated and blown into the space to dry and heat the hair strands as they pass between the arms. In one embodiment, the air flow enters the space through holes on both arms, and in another embodiment, the air flow enters the space through holes on one arm and leaves the space through exhaust holes on the other arm.

[0022] DE 201 19 863 U1 also discloses a hair drying and styling device comprising a pair of hinged arms, each arm having a heating panel which can be pressed together when in use. The device has an air flow channel along each arm. The air is heated and mainly used to heat the panels, and the panels have holes through which at least some of the hot air can flow directly into contact with the hair. The heating panel is corrugated, and the depth of the corrugations varies across the panel.

[0023] FR 2 937 839 discloses a hair styling device having a pair of articulated arms. One of the arms is connectable to a hair dryer and air can flow along the arm and through holes in a styling panel mounted on the arm. Summary of the invention

[0024] It is an object of the present invention to provide a device that can be used to style hair while reducing the damage that is (or could be) caused to the user's hair, particularly after repeated use of the device.

[0025] Another object of the present invention is to provide a device for styling hair that can operate similarly to a hair straightener, applying heat and some tension to the hair, but at the same time applying significantly less (or possibly minimal) pressure to the hair.

[0026] Another object of the present invention is to provide a device for styling hair between two heating panels while maintaining a gap between the panels to avoid or at least reduce deformation of the hair.

[0027] Another object of the present invention is to provide a device for drying and styling hair, ideally hair that has been partially dried and has moisture.

[0028] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a hair styling device comprising:

[0029] First panel;

[0030] a second panel, the second panel being movable relative to the first panel;

[0031] The device has an open state and a closed state, in which the first panel is spaced apart from the second panel by a first distance in the open state, and in which the first panel is spaced apart from the second panel by a second distance in the closed state, the second distance being greater than zero and less than the first distance, and the first panel and the second panel face each other in the closed state;

[0032] Electric motor;

[0033] impeller;

[0034] Electric heating elements;

[0035] an air flow channel, in which at least a portion of the impeller and at least a portion of the heating element are located;

[0036] The first panel has a plurality of first holes, and the first holes are connected to the air flow channel;

[0037] The second panel has a plurality of second holes;

[0038] an exhaust passage, communicating with the second hole;

[0039] The first panel and the second panel are corrugated, and the crests and troughs of the first panel face the corresponding troughs and crests of the second panel respectively.

[0040] The first and second panels are hair styling panels and, in use, hair strands are styled (and perhaps dried) between the panels.

[0041] During use of the device, heated air is blown along the airflow path, through the first aperture, through the hair bundle between the first and second panels, through the second aperture, and out along or via the exhaust path. Thus, air enters the space or gap between the first and second panels from the first aperture and does not enter from the second aperture. The airflow is generally controlled so that as the airflow flows from the first panel to the second panel, the air moves between individual hairs in the hair bundle between the panels and moves generally perpendicular to the individual hairs.

[0042] The inventors have discovered that allowing air to vent through the second panel prevents most or all of the air from passing along the hair strand (roughly parallel to the hair strand) as the air attempts to escape between the panels facing each other. At least some of the air will flow along the hair toward the root end, and this airflow may cause some of the hair scales of the cuticle to lift. The lifting of the hair scales of the cuticle is contrary to the desired action of flattening the cuticle, and the resulting shine on the hair strand will be reduced (perhaps prompting the user to repeat the process in an attempt to achieve the desired shine). According to this aspect, the present invention reduces unnecessary lifting of the hair scales by minimizing the airflow along the hair strand, thereby reducing the likelihood of the user repeating the above process, thereby reducing the likelihood of damaging the hair.

[0043] The inventors have appreciated that the shine on a user's hair can be significantly increased without deforming or flattening the hair. Providing a non-zero spacing between the panels when the panels are in a closed state limits the pressure that can be applied to the hair, thereby limiting (and preferably substantially avoiding) deformation of the hair. Nonetheless, the cuticle can be flattened and the shine on the user's hair can be increased.

[0044] Preferably, the panels in the closed state are spaced apart by a distance greater than about 0.2 mm. It will be appreciated that the thickness of human hair varies from about 0.02 mm to about 0.18 mm; setting the spacing between the panels to exceed the upper limit of this range ensures that the panels cannot be pressed together to a sufficient degree to deform individual hairs. Although some hairs in a hair bundle in which many individual hairs are stacked on top of each other may deform to some extent, the likelihood of destructive (and particularly repetitive) deformation is significantly reduced. In particular, it is unlikely that all individual hairs will deform, and the degree of deformation of any deformed hair may be significantly less than that of a conventional hair straightener.

[0045] Desirably, the panels are spaced apart by a distance greater than about 0.5 mm in their closed configuration, and ideally about 1 mm. It will be appreciated that such spacing will further reduce (and possibly eliminate) the likelihood of deforming or flattening individual hairs (or at least will reduce the proportion of hairs that are deformed).

[0046] Preferably, the spacing between the first panel and the second panel in the closed state is adjustable by the user. For example, the user can set the spacing in one or more discrete steps between a predetermined minimum spacing (e.g., 0.8 mm) and a predetermined maximum spacing (e.g., 1.5 mm), the selected spacing being suitable for effectively styling the hair of a particular user. A particular user may also wish to vary the styling operation by using different spacings at different times.

[0047] Thus, the panels of the present invention are spaced apart in the closed state. The closed state is the state in which the device is used for drying and styling hair and therefore represents a minimum spacing between the panels.

[0048] Providing corrugated panels increases the path that a strand of hair must travel when passing between the panels without increasing the overall width of the panels. It will be appreciated that for a given rate of movement, it will take longer for a strand of hair to pass between corrugated panels than between flat panels of the same overall width. The longer travel time can increase the volume of heated air that contacts the strand of hair as it passes between the panels. It is desirable to minimize the overall width of the hair styling appliance (and the panels) to increase its aesthetic appearance.

[0049] Providing corrugated panels also increases the surface area of ​​the panel for a given width. Increasing the surface area of ​​the panel allows each panel to have a greater number of holes (or larger holes, or both), thereby increasing the airflow rate through the panel.

[0050] In addition, the corrugated panels will create some resistance or friction in the hair strands because the hair will come into contact with the crests of the corrugated panels and thus bend around these crests. This provides two benefits. First, because the distance between the panels is greater than the thickness of a single hair, it has been found necessary to provide some frictional resistance to the hair to reduce the possibility of a single hair moving along the panels (or being blown away) and escaping from the gaps between the panels. It has been found that the corrugations can create enough friction to keep the hair in the gaps between the panels. Second, even a small amount of resistance will create tension in the hair strands between the scalp and the panels, which can help straighten the hair because the hair is still hot after leaving the panels. Despite the spacing of the panels, the use of corrugated panels better enables the device to achieve the effect of straightening the hair without compressing or deforming the hair.

[0051] The term "corrugated" is used to describe the wave shape of the panel, but it should not be inferred that there must be multiple complete waves in each panel. Although more than one wave can be provided for each panel, the present invention can also use only a single wave for each panel (i.e., one complete wave crest plus one complete wave trough). The present invention can also use less than one complete wave, such as using half a wave (or less than half a wave) per panel. In these latter embodiments, one of the panels is convex and the other is concave.

[0052] The number and depth of the peaks and valleys in the corrugations can be selected to suit the application. It will be appreciated that the corrugations are primarily intended to increase the surface area of ​​the panels, as well as to increase the path length of the hair between the panels. The same increased surface area and path length can be provided by one large corrugation or by several small corrugations, and both fall within the scope of the present invention. It will also be appreciated that the surface area and path length will be increased more by corrugations having a larger amplitude. Increasing the amplitude will also increase the resistance to the hair passing between the panels, thereby increasing the tension on the hair between the scalp and the panels. As discussed above, increasing the tension can better straighten the hair, but the amplitude should not be so large that the hair is deformed as it passes between the panels, or damaged by excessive tension.

[0053] Although reference is made to an impeller, it will be appreciated that other elements may be used to move air, such as a fan or turbine. In this application, the term "impeller" is used as a generic term to encompass any element that can be driven by a motor to move air.

[0054] In conventional hair straighteners, heat is provided by an electric heating element mounted in the hair straightening panel; in the present invention, some or all of the heat is provided by air, which is heated by the heating element in the air flow channel and then blown through the holes in the first panel onto the hair passing through the first panel. In some embodiments, heat may be provided by the heated air alone. However, preferably, the device includes a second heat source for heating and / or drying the hair, for example, the first panel and / or the second panel may be directly heated, ideally by a dedicated second electric heating element, most preferably by a ceramic heating element. In these preferred embodiments, the hair is heated by a combination of heated air and direct heating of the panel.

[0055] Preferably, if the first panel and / or the second panel are directly heated, these panels are thermally conductive, for example metal. Thus, the direct heating element can be located so as not to obstruct any first hole and / or second hole, and the heat generated by the second heating element is diffused to the corresponding panel by conduction. Ideally, the second heating element is located at one or more edges of the first panel and / or the second panel.

[0056] It may be arranged that the (first and / or second) panel is heated by its second heating element to a temperature higher than the heated air passing through the first hole. Alternatively, it may be arranged that the (first and / or second) panel is heated by its second heating element to a temperature lower than the heated air passing through the first hole, or the temperatures may be substantially the same. The operating temperature of the heated air and / or the panel may be adjustable by the user, so that a specific heating regime suitable for a specific hair type and a specific styling operation may be provided. For example, for certain operations, it may be desirable to dry and / or style the hair strands using a combination of heated air and second heating, while for other operations, only heated air is used and the second heating element is turned off.

[0057] An alternative second heating configuration is to use non-contact heating, such as infrared radiation. For example, one or more infrared radiation sources may be arranged behind the first panel and / or the second panel, wherein the radiation passes through the first and / or second holes to heat the hair strands between the panels. Different possible heating methods may also be used with this second heating configuration.

[0058] Desirably, the air is heated in the air flow path to between about 100° C. and about 130° C. This is about the same temperature as air heated by, for example, a conventional hair dryer. The air cools by contact with the (humid) hair and will typically be exhausted from the device at a significantly lower temperature (e.g., about 70° C., which is expected to be low enough to avoid burning the user if the exhausted air should contact the scalp).

[0059] The electric heating element in the air flow channel is preferably an array (mesh) of metal wires which are heated by passing an electric current through the wires. Such heating elements are commonly used in hair dryers and are an effective way of heating the air passing between the wires. If a second heating element is used for the first and / or second panel, it is preferably a ceramic heater.

[0060] Preferably, the exhaust passage comprises one or more openings through which air can be exhausted from the device after passing through the second hole (passively). Alternatively, the air can be moved (actively) to or along the exhaust passage, for example by a second impeller or exhaust impeller in the exhaust passage. Thereby, the air can be sucked through the second hole, passed through the second impeller and exhausted from the device. Alternatively, the exhaust passage can be connected to the air flow passage to recirculate part or all of the air in the device. The latter option has the potential benefit of saving energy because the temperature of the air passing through the heating element in the air flow passage will be higher than the ambient temperature; it has the potential disadvantage that the recirculated air contains more moisture than the ambient air, which may limit the temperature increase of the air when passing through the heating element.

[0061] The total cross-sectional area of ​​the second holes is preferably at least as large as the total cross-sectional area of ​​the first holes (and desirably larger). In one embodiment, the total cross-sectional area of ​​the first holes is the same as the total cross-sectional area of ​​the second holes. In such an arrangement, the second holes do not restrict or throttle the airflow and reduce the likelihood that air will flow along the hair rather than escape through the second holes.

[0062] The cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust passage is preferably at least as large as the total cross-sectional area of ​​the second holes (and desirably larger). Thus, the exhaust passage does not restrict or throttle the air flow (which is particularly beneficial in arrangements where air is exhausted passively).

[0063] The hair styling appliance may include a controller for controlling the operation of the motor and the heating element. The hair styling appliance may be provided with a sensor which detects when the appliance is in a closed state, and the controller may be further arranged to reduce the supply of heat when the appliance is in an open state. This arrangement may save energy by reducing or preventing heated air from blowing through the apertures of the first panel when the appliance is in an open state.

[0064] It will be appreciated that it may not be technically desirable to repeatedly turn the motor on and off and / or the electric heating element on and off each time the first and second panels are moved between their open and closed positions. Turning the second heating on and off may be more desirable, especially if the second heating is provided by an infrared source, for example.

[0065] Preferably, the first panel is mounted on the first arm. Also preferably, the second panel is mounted on the second arm. In this configuration, the arms are relatively movable so that the panels can be moved between the open and closed states by the arms. Desirably, each arm has a handle portion that a user can grasp together.

[0066] Preferred embodiments of the device are intended for one-handed operation, and in such embodiments the handle portions of the arms will preferably allow a user to grasp the device during use and move the panel between its open and closed positions by squeezing the arms together.

[0067] Preferably, the arms are hinged together and are spring biased to an open position. The arms may be hinged together at their ends opposite the panel (as in a conventional hair straightener), or the hinge may be located between the ends of the arms (as in a pair of scissors).

[0068] Alternatively, the first panel is mounted directly to the first arm and the second panel is mounted indirectly to the first arm via a hinge; the device may be moved between open and closed conditions by an actuator or by a manually movable trigger mounted on the first arm or the like.

[0069] Preferably, the air flow channel is located in the first arm and the exhaust channel is located in the second arm. Also preferably, the electric motor, the impeller and the electric heating element are located in the first arm.

[0070] The panels may be rigidly connected to the respective arms. Alternatively, one or both of the panels may be movably mounted to their respective arms.

[0071] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a hair styling device comprising:

[0072] a first arm portion and a second arm portion movable relative to each other between an open state and a closed state;

[0073] A first panel carried by the first arm;

[0074] A second panel is carried by the second arm;

[0075] When the arm is in the open state, the first panel is spaced apart from the second panel by a first distance, and when the arm is in the closed state, the first panel is spaced apart from the second panel by a second distance, the second distance being greater than zero and less than the first distance;

[0076] at least one electric heating element for heating the first panel and / or the second panel;

[0077] A first panel is movably mounted to the first arm, the first panel being resiliently biased toward the second panel;

[0078] The device has a first magnet mounted on the first panel and a second magnet carried by the second arm, the first magnet and the second magnet being arranged to repel each other when the first arm and the second arm are in a closed state.

[0079] The arrangement is such that when the arms are in the closed state, repulsion occurs between the magnets, so that the first panel and the second panel are forced apart to a certain extent. Thus, the magnets can ensure that the panels are spaced apart in the closed state. The spacing between the panels is preferably determined by a balance between a resilient biasing force (which seeks to reduce the spacing) and magnetic repulsion (which seeks to increase the spacing). It will be appreciated that the spacing when there are hair strands between the panels may be different from the (minimum) spacing when there is no hair. For example, hair strands thicker than the minimum spacing will result in an increase in spacing.

[0080] The range of movement achievable by the first panel relative to the first arm preferably exceeds the desired spacing between the panels in the closed state, whereby the first panel "floats" relative to the first arm and the resulting spacing between the panels is determined by a balance of forces rather than any structural element of the device. The combination of magnets acting in opposition to the resilient bias effectively controls the tension imparted to the hair by the panel rather than directly controlling the spacing between the panels.

[0081] The second panel may be rigidly mounted to the second arm. However, preferably, the second panel is movably mounted to the second arm and is resiliently biased towards the first panel. In this arrangement, the second magnet is preferably mounted to the second panel.

[0082] Preferably, a portion of the first arm engages with a portion of the second arm in the closed state, the respective portions defining the closed state of the arms when engaged. The resilient biased movement of the panel relative to the arms and the repulsion of the magnets enable forces to be balanced to define the closed state of the panel.

[0083] A single pair of magnets with opposite magnetic properties may be provided to force the first and second panels apart, or multiple pairs of magnets with opposite magnetic properties may be provided. If multiple pairs of magnets are provided, they may be distributed across, along and / or around the first and second panels.

[0084] In the event that the repulsive force of the magnets in the closed state is not exactly perpendicular to the plane of the panels, the repulsive force may also cause lateral forces to attempt to move one of the panels laterally relative to the other. If the panels are corrugated, any lateral forces may reduce the spacing between the panels at one location and increase the spacing between the panels at another location, which is undesirable. Therefore, it is preferred that the magnets are configured and / or positioned to avoid or reduce any lateral forces on the panels. It is desirable that the first magnet and the second magnet are elongated across the width of the panel.

[0085] In an embodiment according to the second aspect of the invention, the first and second magnets act as spacer elements which together with the resilient bias provide a desired spacing between the panels in the closed state.

[0086] In an embodiment according to the first aspect, the first and second panels may be rigidly mounted to their respective arms, and one or more structural spacing elements may be provided between the panels (or at least adjacent to the panels) to determine and maintain a desired spacing between the panels in the closed state. An embodiment according to the second aspect may include structural spacing elements as well as magnetic spacing elements.

[0087] In a two-part handle arrangement where the arms are hinged together at their ends opposite the panels, the structural spacing element may be located between the handle portions of the arms. In an arrangement of a two-part handle with a scissor action, the structural spacing element may be part of the hinge, or may at least be connected to the hinge, thereby limiting the hinge movement and thereby determining the minimum spacing between the panels in the closed state.

[0088] The spacing elements are preferably used to maintain uniform spacing between the panels in the closed state. It is desirable that the spacing is uniform along the length of the panel. It is also desirable that the spacing is uniform across the width of the panel. This helps to better ensure that the styling action performed on all individual hairs in the tress is consistent, and also helps to ensure that individual hairs in the tress are not deformed when passing between the panels.

[0089] If desired, there may be two or more spacing elements. In particular, it may be desirable to have a first spacing element adjacent one end of a panel (or alternatively or additionally, adjacent one side edge of the panel) and a second spacing element adjacent the other end of the panel (or alternatively or additionally, adjacent the other side edge of the panel) to better ensure that the spacing between the panels is uniform along and across the entire panel when in the closed condition.

[0090] The spacing elements may include magnetic spacing elements and / or structural spacing elements. In this regard, it will be appreciated that structural spacing elements may impair or hinder the insertion of hair strands into the gaps between the panels when the arms are in the open position, particularly if the structural spacing elements are located at the free ends of the arms. If the spacing elements are provided adjacent to the free ends of the arms, it is preferred to have magnetic spacing elements at this location.

[0091] Preferably, the first hole is substantially circular. Preferably, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first hole is also substantially uniform across the first panel. However, the present invention does not exclude the provision of uneven holes across the first panel, nor does it exclude a combination of different hole shapes and / or sizes, if desired. For example, the size of the hole may increase as it is further from the impeller, thereby seeking to balance the airflow rate through the hole when in use. In addition, at least one hole may be elongated (e.g., a slit) or otherwise shaped and / or angled to provide a desired airflow pattern (including an uneven pattern) into the space between the panels.

[0092] As desired, the second holes may match the above-mentioned features of the first holes, or may differ from one or more of these features. Preferably, the size, shape and position of each second hole matches the size, shape and position of the corresponding first hole. In this preferred embodiment, air can flow directly through the first holes, across the gap between the panels, and through the corresponding second holes, so that the airflow can be almost exactly perpendicular to the direction of movement of the hair between the panels. (In practice, the airflow will not be exactly perpendicular because it will deviate as it contacts and passes through the hair strands.)

[0093] It will be appreciated that, in use, heated air will be blown through the apertures into the relatively small spaces between the panels. Thus, in order to heat the air passing through (and, if necessary, drying) the hair strands within the region, the required air flow rate will be significantly lower than that produced by, for example, a conventional hair dryer. Thus, the capacity of the motor and impeller is significantly smaller than that of a conventional hair dryer without adversely affecting styling performance. Thus, the handle can be significantly smaller than the body of a conventional hair dryer, and ideally has a size similar to that of a hair straightener and can be easily grasped by a user with one hand.

[0094] As described above, embodiments of the present invention are particularly effective for flattening the cuticle to enhance the shine of the hair. The present invention is also useful for reducing the natural curl of a hair strand. The benefits of the present invention are expected to be enhanced by use on hair that is damp (e.g., partially dried) so that the hair is dried and styled by the device. The present invention is also expected to be effective in improving the shine and appearance of hair that has been subjected to repeated curling and / or straightening operations, including hair that has been damaged by excessive styling.

[0095] Although it is desirable to minimize the pressure applied to individual hairs in the hair bundle being styled, the inventors do not exclude the use of pressure elements associated with the first and second panels. The pressure elements can significantly increase the resistance on the hair as it passes through the device, thereby increasing the tension and straightening effect. Although pressure elements may deform the hair, some users may desire them.

[0096] Thus, some embodiments may have a first pressurizing element adjacent one of the side edges of a first panel and / or a second pressurizing element adjacent the same side edge of a second panel.

[0097] The inventors have appreciated that in embodiments with a pressurizing element, it is not necessary to apply heat and pressure to the hair strands simultaneously, but rather these operations may be separated to some extent. Unlike conventional hair straighteners, since the pressurizing element is adjacent to the side edges of the first and second panels, the hair will be heated (but not pressurized) as it passes between the panels, and will only be pressurized when the hair (subsequently) passes between the pressurizing element. While it is understood that the hair will still be hot as it passes between the pressurizing element downstream of the first and second panels, the hair strands experience the combined effects of heat and pressure over a shorter path and ideally for a shorter time than known hair straighteners, thereby reducing the likelihood of damaging the hair.

[0098] The pressure elements may be relatively narrow (in the direction of travel of the hair strands), for example about 2 mm. It will be appreciated that conventional hair straighteners cannot effectively operate with a panel that is only 2 mm wide. However, with the present invention, since the pressure elements act on the heated hair, they can still function to straighten the hair despite their significantly reduced width.

[0099] Preferably, the first and second pressurizing elements move between similar open and closed conditions with the respective first and second panels.

[0100] It is desirable to have a third pressure element adjacent to the other side edge of the first panel and / or a fourth pressure element adjacent to the other side edge of the second panel. Accordingly, the first panel has a first pressure element adjacent to one side edge thereof and a third pressure element adjacent to the other side edge thereof; the second panel similarly has a second pressure element and a fourth pressure element adjacent to their respective side edges. In this arrangement, one pair of pressure elements is located "upstream" of the first and second panels being used, while another pair of pressure elements is located "downstream" of the first and second panels being used. Regardless of the direction in which the user passes her hair through the device, a pair of pressure elements will follow the first and second panels, so that the user does not have to orient the device correctly relative to her head when in use.

[0101] It should be understood that the pressurizing element can perform two functions. First, the pressurizing element generates pressure, thereby increasing the resistance experienced by each individual hair in the hair bundle to better straighten the hair. Second, the pressurizing element effectively seals the gap between the side edges of the first panel and the second panel and restricts the heated air from escaping through the gap. The second function helps ensure that substantially all of the heated air passes through the second holes and further reduces the possibility of air passing along the hair bundle and lifting the cuticle of the cuticle.

[0102] In order to enhance the second function, the gap between the free ends of the panel (opposite to the handle portion) can also be closed by a suitable sealing element or possibly by an extension of the pressurizing element. Thus it can be arranged that the heated air can only leave the device through the second hole and the exhaust passage.

[0103] If desired, the pressure elements can also serve as spacing elements, i.e., they can be arranged to engage each other in a closed state and have sufficient rigidity to maintain the selected spacing between the panels. In such an arrangement, if thick hair strands are styled, which will keep the pressure elements apart (and thereby further keep the first and second panels apart), the spacing between the panels will necessarily increase.

[0104] Preferably, the pressurizing elements are flexible strips mounted along one or both side edges of the first and second panels. The benefit of the flexible strips is that they provide a better seal to prevent the heated air from escaping undesirably. The flexible strips have the further benefit of balancing the pressure applied to the individual hairs in the tress, i.e. the flexible strips adjacent to the thicker part of the tress will deform to some extent when pressure is applied therebetween. Ideally, the flexible strips are made of silicone. Whether or not the pressurizing elements are flexible strips, they may be spring mounted if desired, i.e. so that they can move to some extent when pressed together.

[0105] Although it is preferred that at least two pressure elements are provided, it is not essential to provide two flexible strips. For example, a single flexible strip may be mounted to the first panel or the second panel and engage with a rigid surface mounted to the second or first panel respectively. The rigid surface constitutes a pressure element by its relationship with the flexible strip in a closed state, i.e. it cooperates with the flexible strip to pressurize the hair bundle therebetween. The rigid surface may be an extension of the respective panel, or may be a separate element carried by or mounted to the panel.

[0106] Desirably, the flexible strip includes a plurality of ribs or fingers aligned across the panel. The ribs may act as a comb-like element to separate the hair bundle into smaller hair bundles and help keep the smaller hair bundles separate during use of the device.

[0107] It will be appreciated that pressurizing the hair strands, particularly between silicone pressurizing elements, may result in an undesirable buildup of static charge on the hair strands. Embodiments of the apparatus incorporating pressurizing elements may also incorporate a negative ion generator, with negative ions being introduced into the space between the panels to contact the hair strands being styled. Negative ions may be added to the airflow of the airflow channel. Alternatively or additionally, in a known manner, one or both panels may be coated with tourmaline, which is known to release negative ions when heated.

[0108] It will be appreciated that the optional features described above with respect to one aspect of the invention may also be used with other aspects of the invention where compatible; in order to avoid unnecessary repetition, a complete list of suitable optional features for each aspect of the invention is not listed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0109] The invention will now be described in more detail, by way of example, with reference to a schematic diagram, in which:

[0110] Figure 1 A perspective view showing a first embodiment of a hair styling device according to the first aspect of the present invention in a closed state;

[0111] Figure 2 show Figure 1A three-dimensional view of a hair styling device in an open state;

[0112] Figure 3 show Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the hair styling device in a closed state in the region of the first panel and the second panel;

[0113] Figure 4 A perspective view showing a first alternative design of a hair styling device in a closed position;

[0114] Figure 5 show Figure 4 A three-dimensional view of a hair styling device in an open state;

[0115] Figure 6 A perspective view showing a second alternative design of the hair styling device in a closed position;

[0116] Figure 7 show Figure 6 A three-dimensional view of a hair styling device in an open state;

[0117] Figure 8 show Figure 6 Another perspective view of the hair styling device;

[0118] Fig. 9 show Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the hair styling device in a closed state in the region of the first panel and the second panel;

[0119] Fig.10 show Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a hair styling device in a closed state at different areas;

[0120] Fig.11 A perspective view showing a second embodiment of a hair styling device according to the first aspect of the present invention in a closed state;

[0121] Fig.12 show Fig.11 A diagram of a hair styling device in an open state;

[0122] Fig.13 show Fig.11 A cross-sectional view of the hair styling device in a closed state, in the region of the panel;

[0123] Fig.14 show Figure 6 and Fig.11 A perspective view of a pressurizing element of a hair styling device;

[0124] Fig.15 a perspective view showing an alternative pressurizing element;

[0125] Fig.16 A perspective view showing a first embodiment of a hair styling device according to the second aspect of the invention;

[0126] Fig.17 show Fig.16 An end view of a hair styling device; and

[0127] Fig.18 show Fig.16 A three-dimensional view of the carrier member of the styling panel of the device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0128] Figure 1-3 A perspective view of a first embodiment of a hair styling appliance 110 according to the first aspect of the invention is shown. The appliance has a handle 112, a first panel 114 and a second panel 116.

[0129] The handle 112 of the hair styling device 110 is formed by the handle portion of a first arm 112a and a second arm 112b. The first panel 114 is rigidly mounted to the first arm 112a, and the second panel 116 is rigidly mounted to the second arm 112b. The arms 112a and 112b are hinged together at their ends opposite the panels 114, 116. The arms are biased apart by a spring (not shown) mounted near the hinge. The hinge is configured to limit the separation of the arms 112a, 112b, thereby defining a position such as Figure 2 Shown in open state.

[0130] Thus, the structure of the hair styling device 110 is generally similar to that of a conventional hair straightener and can be used in a manner similar to that of a conventional hair straightener. Thus, in use, the user first maintains a relatively loose grip on the arms 112a, 112b with one hand and grasps the hair strand to be styled (not shown) with the other hand. The user moves the hair styling device 110 toward their scalp and places the selected hair strand between the panels 114, 116. The user squeezes the two arms 112a, 112b together to move the hair styling device to Figure 1 The hair styling device 110 is then slid away from the scalp and toward the free end of the hair strand.

[0131] Thus, the hair styling appliance 110 has an open state ( Figure 2 ) and closed state ( Figure 1 ), in the open state, the panels 114, 116 are spaced apart by a first distance (non-uniform), and in the closed state, the panels are spaced apart by a second distance. Importantly, the second distance is not zero, so that in the closed state, there is a spacing S between the first panel and the second panel ( Figure 3As described above, the spacing S is selected to be sufficient to ensure that little or no pressure is applied to individual strands of hair as the strands pass between the panels 114, 116.

[0132] like Figure 2 As shown, the first panel 114 has a plurality of first holes 120. Each first hole 120 is connected to an air flow channel 122, a portion of which is shown in FIG. Figure 3 The air flow channel 122 extends along the interior of the first arm portion 112a to an air inlet 124 at the end of the arm portion 112a adjacent to the hinge (the air inlet may be connected to the first arm portion 112a). Figure 8 324 shown in FIG. 1 ).

[0133] The arm 112a includes a motor, an impeller and a heating element (not shown). The motor drives the impeller to rotate, thereby drawing air into the air inlet 124 and blowing the air along the air flow channel 122, through the heating element and through the first hole 120. Thus, in use, the hot air passes through the first hole 120 into the gap or spacing between the panels 114, 116, which gap includes a portion of the hair bundle selected in use (and the gap is shown in FIG. Figure 3 ).

[0134] It should be understood that the precise arrangement of the motor, impeller and heating element is not critical to the present invention as long as they work together to deliver air at a desired temperature (e.g., 100° C. to 130° C.) through the first aperture 120 when in use. However, it is desirable that the motor is located in the air flow path upstream of the heating element so that it is cooled by the ambient air flow. It is also desirable that the heating element is located downstream of the impeller so that heat is not wasted when air passes through the impeller. The heating element may be located immediately adjacent to the impeller within the arm 112 a, or may be mounted on the underside of the first panel 114, or anywhere between these two locations as desired.

[0135] like Figure 3 As shown, the second panel 116 has a plurality of second holes 126. The second arm 112b also has a plurality of openings 128, which are part of an exhaust passage through which air can exit the device 110. In this embodiment, the openings 128 are formed through a wall 130 of the second arm 112b, but it should be understood that the wall 130 is optional and the second holes 126 can also alternatively provide an exhaust passage and lead directly to the outside of the device.

[0136] There is an open space 132 between the second panel 116 and the wall portion 130 . In this embodiment, the open space 132 also forms a part of the exhaust passage. Each second hole 126 is in communication with the opening 128 through the open space 132 .

[0137] In this embodiment, the first panel 114 (and similarly the second panel 116) is also directly heated by a separate one or more second heating elements (not shown). The first and second panels are preferably thermally conductive (e.g. metal), and respective second heating elements (suitably ceramic heating elements) are positioned along one or both side edges of each panel. Heat is thereby supplied directly to the panels without obstructing the apertures. It will be appreciated that the secondary heating is optional, as some embodiments of the hair styling appliance may utilize heat provided solely by the hot air flow.

[0138] It should be understood that an important feature of the present invention is to ensure that Figure 1 and 3 In the closed state, there is a defined gap or spacing S between panels 114 and 116, and as Figure 3 As shown, the spacing should ideally be uniform (or at least substantially uniform) across the width of the panel. Ideally, the spacing should also be uniform along the length of the panel. Figure 2 ) to help ensure that the minimum desired spacing is reliably and repeatedly achieved and reliably maintained during use. In this embodiment, the spacing element includes an upright rigid structure 134 that is mounted to the first arm 112a and engages with a portion of the second arm 112b in the closed state. The first embodiment may, for example, have Fig.10 Components similar to the components 336 shown in FIG. 1 are shown and these components engage with the structure 334 of the device.

[0139] The use of two spacing elements 134 located on opposite sides of the centerline of the arm 112a and at a significant distance from the hinge helps to ensure that the spacing S is maintained and also ensures that the spacing S is uniform (or at least substantially uniform) along the entire length and width of the panels 114, 116. As a result, the hair strands pass through the uniform gaps between the panels 114, 116, and a more consistent and repeatable style is applied to all the hair in the hair strands and each hair strand passing through the device.

[0140] It can be seen that the rigid structure 134 is tapered. Fig.10 As with the arrangement shown, the formation 134 enters a cooperating tapered recess (not shown) in the second arm portion 112b to limit relative lateral movement between the handle portions 112a, 112b in the closed position.

[0141] During use of the hair styling device 110, the selected hair strand is moved from Figure 3The left or right side of the hair strand passes through the gap between the panels 114, 116. During its passage between the panels 114, 116, the hair strand is heated to the desired temperature by the combination of the hot air blowing through the holes 120 and the second heating elements of the first and second panels 114, 116. If (as is generally expected) the hair strand is damp, the combination of the heated air and the heating panels will heat and dry the hair.

[0142] Additionally, the action of passing the hair strands through the small gaps between panels 114, 116 flattens the cuticle and increases the shine of the hair.

[0143] Furthermore, the action of pulling the device along the strands will create tension on the hair despite the gaps between the panels. Even a small tension will ensure that the hair between the scalp and the panels is straightened, and since the hair is hot when it leaves the panels, the tension will act to straighten the hair.

[0144] It should be understood that air can pass through the hair strands between the panels 114, 116 from the first hole 120 and then through the second hole 126. Only a small amount of air is needed, or no air is needed to flow along the hair, especially toward the root end, because such airflow may cause some hair scales of the cuticle to lift up, thereby reducing the shine of the hair.

[0145] from Figure 3 As can be seen, each second hole 126 is aligned with a corresponding first hole, and each hole has the same size. Each hole in this embodiment is also of the same shape. Therefore, air can flow directly through the device, substantially perpendicular to the direction of movement of hair through the device. The holes do not have to be aligned or have the same size and shape, but this is generally preferred. Moreover, the total cross-sectional area of ​​the second holes 126 should be at least as large as the total cross-sectional area of ​​the first holes 120 so that the second holes 126 do not restrict the total airflow.

[0146] from Figure 3 It can also be seen that each second hole 126 has a corresponding opening 128, although not all of the openings 128 are precisely aligned with the second holes. The openings 128 are slightly larger than the second holes 126. The number of openings 128 does not have to match the number of second holes 126, but the total cross-sectional area of ​​the openings 128 should be at least as large as the total cross-sectional area of ​​the second holes 126 so that the openings 128 do not restrict the total gas flow.

[0147] It will be appreciated that the corrugated structure increases the resistance experienced by the hair as it passes through the device, in part because of the increased frictional contact between the hair and the crests of the corrugations, and in part because of the force required to bend the hair as it passes over the crests. The increased resistance increases the tension on the hair strand between the user's scalp and the panel, thereby enhancing the straightening effect without compressing or deforming the hair.

[0148] Figure 4-5 A first alternative design of hair styling appliance 210 is shown. Many elements and features of appliance 210 are the same as appliance 110, and only the differences will be discussed below.

[0149] The first major difference between devices 210 and 110 is that the first panel 214 and the second panel 216 of device 210 are flat, similar to a conventional hair straightener.

[0150] It will be appreciated that the length of the path that the hair strand must traverse when passing between the panels 214, 216 matches the width W of the panels. Conversely, due to the corrugations, the length of the path that the hair strand must traverse in the device 110 is greater than the width W. It is often desirable to minimize the width W to increase the aesthetic appearance of the device. It is also often desirable to maximize the path length to maximize the drying and heating effects on the hair strand.

[0151] It will also be appreciated that the surface area of ​​panels 114, 116 is slightly larger than the surface area of ​​panels 214, 216 having the same width W. Therefore, more holes 120 and / or larger holes may be provided on panels 114, 116. It will be appreciated that increasing the total area of ​​holes 120 is beneficial for maximizing airflow to the hair strands during use and is beneficial for reducing pumping losses.

[0152] Figure 3 The undulating shape of the corrugated panels 114, 116 of the first embodiment is shown. It will be appreciated that both the wavelength of the corrugations (and therefore the number of waves in the width W) and the amplitude of the corrugations can be selected to provide a desired path length and surface area. It will also be appreciated that increasing the amplitude and decreasing the wavelength will tend to increase the resistance experienced by the hair strands as they move between the panels. For ease of understanding, Figure 3 The amplitude of the waves shown is exaggerated to some extent, and it will be appreciated that the form of the ripples may vary significantly while still retaining the benefits of the present invention.

[0153] Figure 3 The waves shown are symmetrical. This helps ensure that the device is not "left-handed" and helps ensure that the device functions identically regardless of the direction the hair strands are moving across the panel. It's also quite aesthetically pleasing, but this is an optional feature.

[0154] It can be seen that Figure 3The central peak of the corrugations shown has an amplitude and wavelength that is significantly greater than the amplitude and wavelength of the troughs on either side. This has the advantage of increasing the cross-sectional area of ​​the airflow channel 122, thereby reducing pumping losses. It will be appreciated that, for example, due to the corrugated panel, and in particular due to the larger central peak, the cross-sectional area of ​​the airflow channel of device 110 can be significantly greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​the airflow channel of device 210 (for a similar first arm).

[0155] In other alternative embodiments, the spacing S may be adjustable by the user to alter the styling operation. For example, the length of the spacing element (134) may be adjustable.

[0156] Another major difference in the device 210 is that there is no exhaust port in the second arm 212b. In this device, the second holes (not shown) in the second panel 216 are all connected to the structure 236 and the exhaust channel (not shown) inside the second arm 212b. The exhaust channel includes a second impeller (also not shown), and air enters from the second holes, flows along the exhaust channel, passes through the impeller, and then leaves the device through the exhaust port (not shown) near the hinge. It should be understood that these features can also be provided in other devices described.

[0157] Figure 6-10 A second alternative design of hair styling appliance 310 is shown. Appliance 310 is somewhat similar to appliance 210 and only the main features and differences are described.

[0158] The device 310 has a handle 312, a (flat) first panel 314 and a (flat) second panel 316. In the closed state, the (non-zero) spacing S between the first panel and the second panel is as shown in FIG. Fig. 9 As shown. Similar to other embodiments, the spacing S is sufficient to ensure that individual hairs in the hair bundle are not compressed when passing between the panels 314, 316.

[0159] The main difference of the device 310 is that the first and second pressurizing elements 340 are mounted adjacent to one of the aligned side edges of the first panel 314 and the second panel 316, and the third and fourth pressurizing elements 342 are mounted adjacent to the other aligned side edge of the panels. For simplicity, in this design, all pressurizing elements 340, 342 are formed identically, although this is not necessary in other designs and embodiments.

[0160] When using the device, it will be understood that one pair of pressurizing elements (340 or 342) will be located upstream of the panels 314, 316 (i.e., the hair strand being styled will contact the upstream pressurizing elements before passing between the panels). The other pair of pressurizing elements (342 or 340) will be located downstream of the panels. As described above, the hair strand can be straightened by a combination of heat and tension, i.e., without applying pressure, but some users may prefer to obtain greater tension through a structure with dedicated pressurizing elements, rather than without pressurizing elements as in the first embodiment.

[0161] The upstream pressurizing element applies pressure to the unheated hair, while the downstream pressurizing element applies pressure to the heated hair. The upstream pressurizing element is essentially redundant with respect to the styling of the hair strands. However, providing two pairs of pressurizing elements on both sides of the panel has many benefits as described below.

[0162] Firstly, providing two pairs of pressure elements means that the device is not "right- and left-handed" and the user does not need to orient the device correctly before use, i.e. she can use the device with the pressure element 340 or 342 facing her scalp.

[0163] Secondly, if Fig. 9 As shown, each pair of pressurizing elements 340 and 342 engages with each other, thereby effectively sealing or closing both sides of the gap between panels 314 and 316. Effectively preventing air from escaping from the side edges of the panels, better ensuring that the air is discharged through the second holes rather than passing along the hair strands. Although not shown in the figure, the ends of the gap between panels 314 and 316 (i.e., the ends opposite to the hinges) can also be sealed to prevent hot air from escaping. Independent sealing members can seal the ends of the gap, or one or both of the pressurizing elements can extend to bypass the ends of panels 314 and 316 to seal the ends of the gap. Fig.15 An alternative pressurizing element 350 is shown in , which is also suitable for sealing gaps at the ends of the panels, and is described in detail below.

[0164] During use of hair styling device 310, a selected hair strand is moved from Fig. 9The hair strand is passed through the gap between panels 314, 316 on the left or right side. During its passage between panels 314, 316, the hair strand is heated to the desired styling temperature by a combination of hot air blown along airflow channel 322 and the second heating element of panels 314, 316, if present. The hair strand then passes through downstream pressurizing element 340 or 342, and, because the hair remains hot while being pressurized between these elements, its styling is accomplished in part by the combination of applied heat and pressure of the pressurizing element, and also because the hair is then straightened. Depending on the heat and pressure applied to the hair strand, and also depending on the hair type, the hair styling device can be used to completely straighten curly or wavy hair, or it can be used to partially straighten (tame) curly or wavy hair.

[0165] Figure 11-13 A perspective view of a second embodiment of a hair styling appliance 410 according to the first aspect of the invention is shown. The second embodiment has the same features as the pressurizing elements 340, 342 of the appliance 310. As the benefits of these individual features are described above, and these benefits are all the same as for the second embodiment, these features and benefits will not be described again.

[0166] Fig.14 The pressurizing elements 340, 342 are shown. As described above, four identical pressurizing elements 340, 342 are used in the second alternative design hair styling device 310. Four identical pressurizing elements 340, 342 are also used in the second embodiment hair styling device 410. The pressurizing elements are made of silicone and therefore have a certain degree of flexibility. The pressurizing elements have a pressurizing edge 344 (which presses against the hair strand or against an adjacent pressurizing element when in use). In this embodiment, the width w of the pressurizing edge 344 (along the direction of movement of the hair strand when in use) is approximately 2 mm. It should be noted that the width w is significantly less than the width W. The width W is similar to the width of the plate of a conventional hair straightener, and therefore the device significantly reduces the distance (and duration of use) over which the hair strand is subjected to the combined effects of heat and pressure. Therefore, it is expected that the hair styling device 310, 410 will cause significantly less damage to the user's hair, especially during repeated use, than a conventional hair straightener. The hair styling appliance 110, 210 does not have a pressure element and is expected to cause even less (or possibly no) damage. It is also expected that the hair styling appliance 110, 210, 310, 410 can be used on hair that has been damaged by over-styling without causing significant further damage.

[0167] The pressure elements 340, 342 also have a plurality of ribs 346 that are oriented transversely across the panels 314, 316, i.e., in the direction of movement of the hair strands. The ribs 346 act as a comb-like element to separate the hair strands into a plurality of separate smaller hair strands. The ribs also help to keep the smaller hair strands separate during use of the hair styling device 310, 410.

[0168] As shown, the pressure elements 340, 342 are separate elements mounted along the side edges of the panels of the hair styling device 310, 410. Other embodiments described above have only a pair of pressure elements at one side edge of the panels. It is also possible to utilize only one of the pressure elements 340, 342 at each side edge of one of the panels, the pressure elements cooperating with a rigid surface adjacent to the other panel. For example, Figure 6 The first improved version of the design or Fig.11 In the embodiment of the present invention, the rigid pressure element can replace the flexible pressure element (340 and / or 342) installed on the second panel. In the second improved version, the rigid pressure element can replace each flexible pressure element (340 and / or 342) installed on the first panel and the second panel.

[0169] It should be understood that in the above modified version, the rigid pressurizing element need not be an independent element, but can be an extension of the panel. In particular, the flexible pressurizing element 340 mounted on the first panel 314, 414 can be engaged with the rigid extension of the corresponding second panel.

[0170] In the device shown, the pressurizing elements 340, 342 are flexible but are securely mounted to the respective panels 314, 316; 414, 416. In another alternative embodiment, the pressurizing elements are adjustably mounted to the panels, enabling the user to adjust the pressure applied by the pressurizing elements to vary the styling operation. Ideally, in the closed state (as shown), the pressurizing elements can be adjusted to a spacing between zero spacing and a spacing that exceeds the spacing S between the panels.

[0171] In embodiments where the minimum spacing between the panels is determined by a flexible pressure element, the spacing during a styling operation can be adjusted by the user by varying the force applied to the handle portion. For example, it can be determined that most styling operations require a specific spacing between the panels for most hair types, and the specific spacing can be configured to be achieved when the pressure elements of the respective panels are moved into engagement with each other. The flexible pressure element is preferably sufficiently rigid to maintain the specific spacing unless the user squeezes the handle portions together with a particularly large force, thereby causing the pressure element to (elastically) deform or distort to a certain extent. Allowing the user to apply a particularly large force to reduce the spacing between the panels provides the option of straightening (or partially straightening) curly hair, especially for certain hair types. However, even in such an arrangement, it is desirable to incorporate a spacing element so that a controllable (minimum) gap between the panels is ensured even when the pressure element is deformed.

[0172] Fig.15 An alternative press member 350 is shown. Press member 350 comprises a continuous rectangular member, which is ideally made of a silicone material. It will be appreciated that press member 350 may be mounted to both the first and second panels with respective press edges 352 aligned with each other. Sides 354, 356 of press member 350 have ribs 346 which are aligned across the panels when in use. Ribs 346 are aligned with Fig.14 The ribs 346 in are the same and serve the same purpose, but may be configured differently in other embodiments.

[0173] Side portions 354, 356 are joined to respective ends 358. It should be appreciated that in an assembled hair styling device incorporating pressurizing element 350, one of ends 358 is adjacent to a handle (e.g., Figure 2 34 adjacent to the spacing element 134), while the other end 350 is located at the end of the panel relative to the hinge. Therefore, the pressurizing element 350 can seal the entire periphery of the gap between the panels and prevent or limit air from escaping from the gap.

[0174] It will be appreciated that during use, the sides 354, 356 of the compression element 350 will come into contact with the hair, while the end 358 will not. The primary function of the sides 354, 356 is to apply pressure to the hair, with controlling the escape of heated air being a secondary function, while the sole function of the end 358 is to control the escape of heated air. The rigidity of the sides 354, 356 may be different from the rigidity of the end 358 if the different functions of these elements are taken into account.

[0175] It can be observed that Fig. 9 , 1213 only show the first hole in the first panel, but it should be understood that according to a practical embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention, the second panel will also have a second hole.

[0176] Figure 16-18 An embodiment of a hair styling appliance 510 according to the second aspect of the invention is shown. Many elements and features of the appliance 510 are the same as previously described appliances including in particular the appliance 110 and a repeated description will not be given.

[0177] One notable difference is that the first panel 514 is movably mounted to the first arm 512a, and the second panel 516 is movably mounted to the second arm 512b. The movement of each panel relative to its arm is in the direction toward the other panel, i.e., Fig.17 As shown, it is in a direction toward and away from the top of the page. The movement of each panel relative to its arm is small, about 2.0 mm in this embodiment, but about 1.5 mm in other embodiments, and about 1.0 mm in other embodiments.

[0178] The first panel 514 is biased toward the second panel 516 by a resilient biasing element 560a mounted on the first arm 512a. The second panel 516 is biased toward the first panel 514 by a resilient biasing element 560b mounted on the second arm 512b. Fig.16 and 17 Shown in dashed outline in the figure because they are not visible in the assembled device, in this embodiment these elements are identical elements.

[0179] Each biasing element 560a, 560b includes a pair of hollow dome structures 562 connected to each other by a connector 564. The biasing elements 560a, 560b are made of rubber, but in other embodiments are made of other resilient materials. The structure of the hollow domes 562 and the material from which they are made allow the domes to deform under pressure and return to the shape shown when the pressure is released.

[0180] The top of each dome 562 contacts the underside of the panels 514, 516, respectively. It can be seen that the domes 562 are spaced along the panels to provide a substantially balanced force at each end of the panels. Moreover, the domes have an elongated hemispherical shape, and in particular, are elongated across the width of the panels 514, 516, and extend substantially equal distances from either side of the centerline of the panels, and provide a substantially balanced force across the width of the panels.

[0181] It should be understood that the structure of the biasing elements 560a, 560b may vary significantly from that shown in the drawings, and any suitable material may be used without departing from the second aspect of the invention. For example, the biasing elements of the two panels need not be identical, the biasing elements need not have similar shapes at each end of the panel (nor need such shapes be connected to each other), and the biasing elements need not extend across the centerline of the panel.

[0182] In embodiments where the first and second panels have holes, the biasing elements 560a, 560b are structured and positioned so that they do not block any holes.

[0183] The first panel 514 carries two magnets 534a, which are shown in dotted outlines because they are not visible in the assembled device. One of the magnets 534a is adjacent to the hinge end of the first panel 514, and the other magnet 534a is adjacent to the free end of the first panel 514. Similarly, the second panel 516 also carries two magnets 534b, which are shown in dotted outlines. One magnet 534b is adjacent to the hinge end of the first panel 516, and the other magnet 534b is adjacent to the free end of the first panel 516. The magnets 534a and 534b at each end of the panels 514, 516 are aligned with each other and close together in the closed state as shown in the figure.

[0184] Each pair of aligned magnets 534a and 534b is arranged opposite to each other. Therefore, when the arms 512a, 512b are moved as shown in FIG. Fig.16 and 17 In the closed position shown, the magnets repel each other. It is arranged that the repulsive force is sufficient to partially deform the biasing elements 560a, 560b, so that when the arms 512a, 512b are moved to the closed position, the panels 514, 516 are separated by the magnets 534a, 534b. As described above, in this embodiment, each panel 514, 516 can move about 2mm relative to its arm 512a, 512b, respectively. It is arranged that when the arms are in the closed position, the repulsive force is insufficient to fully deform the biasing elements, so that in the closed position, the panels 514, 516 are separated by a (minimum) distance determined by the balance between the repulsive force of the magnets 534a, 534b and the resilient bias of the biasing elements 560a, 560b.

[0185] In this embodiment, it is arranged that when the arms 512a, 512b are fully pressed together, the balance of forces maintains a (minimum) separation of approximately 1 mm between the panels 514, 516.

[0186] It will be appreciated that when a strand of hair that is thicker than the minimum spacing is placed between the panels, this will affect the balance of forces, causing the panels 514, 516 to move further apart. Allowing the panels 514, 516 to "float" in this manner ensures that the spacing between the panels is determined by each strand of hair, and that for thinner strands of hair, the spacing will be relatively small, and for thicker strands of hair, the spacing will be relatively large. Thus, regardless of the thickness of the strand of hair, similar tension can be applied to each strand of hair to a certain extent.

[0187] In particular, from Fig.17 As can be seen, the magnets 534a, 534b extend across most of the width of the panels 514, 516, primarily to minimize or avoid any lateral forces acting on the panels that could cause relative lateral movement between the panels 514 and 516 (i.e., Fig.17 , movement to the left or right as shown in ). It will be appreciated that in embodiments with corrugated panels, lateral movement is undesirable as the spacing between panels will decrease in some parts of the panels and increase in other parts.

[0188] Mounting a pair of opposing magnets 534a, 534b adjacent each end of the panel allows the spacing between the panels in the closed state to be uniform along the length of the panels 514, 516. Additionally, extending the magnets 534a, 534b at nearly equal distances on either side of the centerline of the panel allows substantially equal repulsive forces to be provided across the entire panel and allows the spacing of the panels in the closed state to remain uniform across the entire panel 514, 516. It should be understood that the desired uniform spacing may also be achieved by having a plurality of magnets (which may be smaller than the magnets 534a, 534b) distributed along and across the panel.

[0189] Fig.18 The same carrier 564 is rigidly mounted to each arm 512a, 512b, but the following description will focus on the carrier 564 on the second arm 512b because Fig.18 The direction of the vehicle in Fig.16 The direction of arm 512b in the middle is closest.

[0190] The panel 516 is movably mounted on the carrier 564, which defines a limited range of movement of the panel 516 relative to the arm 512b (approximately 2 mm in this embodiment). Specifically, one end of the panel 516 passes through an opening 566 at one end of the carrier 564 (the other end of the panel 516 passes through the same opening at the other end of the carrier 564). The downward movement of the panel 516 (at Figure 16-18 direction) is limited by the fact that a portion of the panel is engaged with the rigid beam 568.

[0191] although Fig.18 5, the biasing element 560b is mounted to the ride 564 and is located between the panel 516 and the base 570 of the ride. The upward movement of the panel 516 is resisted by the biasing element 560b.

[0192] It can be seen that Fig.18 Although magnet 534b is Fig.18 The second panel 516 is not present in the carrier, but the magnets 534b are shown to clarify their position relative to the carrier 564 when the panel is present.

[0193] Figure 16-18 There are no holes in the display panel. It will be appreciated that embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention alone may not utilize airflow and may have a continuous panel. Such embodiments would benefit from magnetic spacing elements and may additionally include one or more of the known prior art hair straighteners and / or hair styling devices.

[0194] Fig.17 The display panels 514 and 516 are corrugated, ideally similar to earlier devices having corrugated panels. However, this is another optional feature of the invention according to the second aspect.

[0195] A hair styling appliance according to the first and second aspects of the invention will have corrugated panels and holes, with the holes in one panel providing for the passage of air to the hair and the holes in the other panel providing for the exhaust of said air.

[0196] Figure 16-18 There are no pressure elements at the side edges of the display panel, but if necessary, similar Fig.14 Or the pressurizing element of 15. And, if desired, the first panel 514 (and similarly the second panel 516) may most suitably be directly heated by a separate second heating element or elements (not shown).

[0197] It should be understood that the device 510 may be combined with structural spacing elements to determine the closed state of the arms 512a, 512b, for example Figure 2 The structural spacing elements, such as element 134. The movable panel, the resilient bias of the panel and the relative magnets together define the closed state of the panel.

Claims

1. A hair styling device, characterized in that: include: First panel; a second panel, the second panel being movable relative to the first panel; The device has an open state and a closed state, in which the first panel is spaced apart from the second panel by a first distance in the open state, and in which the first panel is spaced apart from the second panel by a second distance in the closed state, the second distance being greater than zero and less than the first distance, and the first panel and the second panel face each other in the closed state; Electric motor; impeller; Electric heating elements; an air flow channel, in which at least a portion of the impeller and at least a portion of the heating element are located; The first panel has a plurality of first holes, and the first holes are connected to the air flow channel; The second panel has a plurality of second holes; an exhaust passage, communicating with the second hole; The first panel and the second panel are corrugated, and the crests and troughs of the first panel face the corresponding troughs and crests of the second panel respectively.

2. The hair styling device according to claim 1, characterized in that In the closed state, the first panel and the second panel are spaced apart by a distance of at least about 0.2 mm.

3. A hair styling device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: In the closed state, a distance between the first panel and the second panel is adjustable.

4. A hair styling device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The hair styling appliance has a second heat source for at least one of the first panel and the second panel.

5. The hair styling device according to claim 4, characterized in that The second heat source is a ceramic heating element.

6. A hair styling device according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that The first panel and the second panel are thermally conductive, and wherein the second heat source is an electric heating element located at an edge of the first panel and / or the second panel.

7. The hair styling device according to claim 4, characterized in that The second heat source is at least one infrared radiator.

8. A hair styling device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that The exhaust passageway includes one or more openings through which air may exit the device.

9. A hair styling device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that The hair styling appliance has an exhaust air impeller in the exhaust air channel.

10. A hair styling device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that The total cross-sectional area of ​​the second holes is at least as large as the total cross-sectional area of ​​the first holes.

11. A hair styling device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterised in that The first holes each have a size, shape and position, and the second holes each have a size, shape and position, and wherein the size, shape and position of each second hole matches the size, shape and position of a respective first hole.

12. A hair styling device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterised in that The cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust passage is at least as large as the total cross-sectional area of ​​the second holes.

13. A hair styling device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterised in that The first panel is mounted on the first arm, and the second panel is mounted on the second arm.

14. A hair styling device according to any one of claims 13, characterised in that The first arm portion and the second arm portion are hinged together at ends opposite the panel.

15. A hair styling device according to claim 13 or 14, characterised in that The airflow channel is located in the first arm portion, and wherein the first panel has peaks and troughs, the peaks have peak wavelengths and peak amplitudes, the troughs have trough wavelengths and trough amplitudes, the peak wavelengths and / or the peak amplitudes are respectively larger than the trough wavelengths and / or the trough amplitudes, thereby increasing the cross-sectional area of ​​the airflow channel.

16. A hair styling device according to any one of claims 13 to 15, characterised in that The first panel is movably mounted on the first arm.

17. A hair styling device according to any one of claims 13 to 16, characterised in that The hair styling appliance has at least one spacing element to maintain a desired spacing between the first panel and the second panel in the closed state.

18. A hair styling device according to claim 17, characterized in that The hair styling appliance has at least one structural spacing element.

19. A hair styling device according to claim 17 or 18, characterised in that The hair styling appliance has a magnetic spacer element including a first magnet mounted on the first panel and the second arm has a second magnet, the first magnet and the second magnet being arranged to repel each other when the first arm and the second arm are in the closed state.

20. The hair styling device of claim 19, wherein: The second panel is movably mounted on the second arm, and wherein the second magnet is mounted on the second panel.

21. A hair styling device according to claim 19 or 20, characterised in that The first arm has a first resilient biasing element that biases the first panel toward the second panel.

22. A hair styling device according to any one of claims 18 to 21, characterised in that A first spacing element is located adjacent one end of the first panel and the second panel, and a second spacing element is located adjacent an opposite end of the first panel and the second panel.

23. A hair styling device according to any one of claims 1 to 22, characterised in that At least one pressure element is located adjacent a side edge of the first panel.

24. A hair styling device according to claim 23, characterised in that The press element is approximately 2 mm wide.

25. A hair styling device according to claim 23 or 24, characterised in that The pressurizing element is used to seal at least a portion of a gap between the first panel and the second panel in the closed state.

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