Hair straightener

Abstract

Provided is a hair straightener capable of further improving operability. The hair straightener is provided with: a first arm section having a first heating surface on the front end side in the longitudinal direction; a second arm section having a second heating surface facing the first heating surface on the front end side in the longitudinal direction; a hinge part disposed on the rear end side in the longitudinal direction and connecting the first arm part and the second arm part so as to be swingable to each other; and a biasing member which connects the first arm and the second arm and biases the first arm and the second arm in a direction in which the first arm and the second arm are separated from each other. The biasing member is connected to the first arm portion at a position between the hinge portion and the first heating surface, that is, at a position closer to an end portion of the rear end side of the first heating surface. The second arm portion is connected to the second arm portion at a position between the hinge portion and the second heating surface, i.e., at a position closer to an end portion of the rear end side of the second heating surface.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a hair iron. BACKGROUND

[0002] A general hair iron has a pair of arms extending in a longitudinal direction, and a hinge portion that swingably links the pair of arms.

[0003] A heating surface is provided at a front end side (a side opposite to the hinge portion) of each of the pair of arms. The heating surfaces of the arms are arranged to face each other, and by sandwiching a hair between the heating surfaces, the hair can be styled. SUMMARY

[0004] An application related to a hair iron filed by the applicant of the present application is disclosed in International Publication No. WO2018 / 235306. The hair iron has a blowing function, and is configured to blow air from a blowout port provided at a side of a first heating plate.

[0005] An object of one embodiment of the present application is to provide a hair iron that can further improve operability.

[0006] One embodiment of the present application relates to a hair iron including: a first arm portion including a first heating surface at a front end side in a longitudinal direction; a second arm portion including a second heating surface opposite to the first heating surface at the front end side in the longitudinal direction; a hinge portion provided at a rear end side in the longitudinal direction and swingably linking the first arm portion and the second arm portion; and a force applying member linking the first arm portion and the second arm portion and applying a force to the first arm portion and the second arm portion in a direction in which the first arm portion and the second arm portion are separated from each other, the force applying member being linked to the first arm portion at a position between the hinge portion and the first heating surface, i.e., at a position closer to an end portion of the rear end side of the first heating surface, and being linked to the second arm portion at a position between the hinge portion and the second heating surface, i.e., at a position closer to an end portion of the rear end side of the second heating surface.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present application, a hair iron that can further improve operability can be provided. In addition, according to one embodiment of the present application, a reduction in the size of the hair iron in the longitudinal direction can be achieved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating an external appearance of a hair iron according to a first embodiment in a closed state.

[0009] Figure 2 is a side view of the hair iron illustrated in FIG. 1. Figure 1

[0010] Figure 3 ​is a perspective view showing the outer appearance configuration of the hair straightener according to the first embodiment in an open state.

[0011] Figure 4 is Figure 3 a side view of the hair straightener shown in

[0012] Figure 5 is Figure 1 a plan view of the hair straightener shown in

[0013] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing a state after the first arm cover is removed from the hair straightener shown in Figure 1

[0014] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing a state after the light guide member is removed from the hair straightener shown in Figure 6

[0015] Figure 8 is a perspective view showing a state after the components constituting the hair straightener according to an embodiment are disassembled.

[0016] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the A-A line portion of the hair straightener 1 shown in Figure 5

[0017] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the B-B line portion of the hair straightener 1 shown in Figure 5

[0018] Figure 11 is a perspective cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the B-B line portion of the hair straightener in an open state.

[0019] Figure 12 is a perspective view showing a housing member provided to the hair straightener.

[0020] Figure 13 is a perspective view showing a rear end portion of the hair straightener.

[0021] Figure 14 is a perspective view showing a state after the components constituting the hinge portion are removed from the hair straightener shown in Figure 13

[0022] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal configuration of the hair straightener shown in Figure 13

[0023] Figure 16 is a perspective view showing the lower surface side of the light guide member shown in Figure 7

[0024] Figure 17 Figure 16 ​​​​​​​​A cross-sectional view of the light guide member shown in FIG. 1.

[0025] Figure 18 A schematic view showing the direction of air blown from the hair straightener.

[0026] Figure 19 A schematic view showing the case where light travels in the light guide member.

[0027] Figure 20 A side view of the front end side of the hair straightener shown in FIG. 1. Figure 2

[0028] A side view showing the state after the first arm cover is removed from the hair straightener shown in FIG. 1. Figure 21 Figure 20 A block diagram showing the internal configuration of the hair straightener according to the first embodiment.

[0029] Figure 22 A block diagram showing the internal configuration of the hair straightener which displays the temperature after use.

[0030] Figure 23 A perspective view showing the external configuration of the hair straightener according to the second embodiment.

[0031] DETAILED DESCRIPTION Figure 24 Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present application will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

[0032] <First Embodiment> In the present embodiment, a hair straightener 1 as an example of the hair straightener according to the present application will be described. The hair straightener 1 can be mainly used for the purpose of styling (hairdressing) of hair.

[0033] (Outline Configuration of Hair Straightener)

[0034] The external appearance of the hair straightener 1 is shown. Figures 1 to 4 The hair straightener 1 in a state where the arm portions 10 and 20 are closed (i.e., a state where the first heating surface 13 and the second heating surface 23 are close to each other) is shown. Figure 1 Figure 2 The hair straightener 1 in a state where the arm portions 10 and 20 are opened (i.e., a state where the first heating surface 13 and the second heating surface 23 are separated from each other) is shown. Figure 3 Figure 4 The hair straightener 1 in a state where the arm portions 10 and 20 are opened (i.e., a state where the first heating surface 13 and the second heating surface 23 are separated from each other) is shown.

[0035] In the present specification, when the shape and positional relationship of each constituent element of the hair straightener 1 are described, for the sake of convenience, the hair straightener 1 is used as shown in FIG. 1. Figure 1 and​​​Figure 2 The three directions of X (X1-X2) direction (width direction), Y (Y1-Y2) direction (up-down direction or thickness direction), and Z (Z1-Z2) direction (front-rear direction) are defined as coordinate axes.

[0036] The straightening iron 1 has an elongated shape extending in the Z direction. For the sake of explanation, the end portion on the Z1 side in the straightening iron 1 is referred to as the front end side, and the end portion on the Z2 side is referred to as the rear end side.

[0037] The straightening iron 1 includes a first arm portion 10, a second arm portion 20, and a hinge portion 30. The first arm portion 10 has a first heating surface 13 on the front end side (Z1 side) in the longitudinal direction. The first heating surface 13 faces the lower side (Y2 side). The second arm portion 20 has a second heating surface 23 on the front end side (Z1 side) in the longitudinal direction. The second heating surface 23 faces the upper side (Y1 side). The first heating surface 13 and the second heating surface 23 face each other.

[0038] The hinge portion 30 is disposed on the rear end side (Z2 side) in the longitudinal direction in the straightening iron 1. The hinge portion 30 links the first arm portion 10 and the second arm portion 20 in a manner that allows the first arm portion 10 and the second arm portion 20 to swing relative to each other.

[0039] A force applying member is provided on the front end side (Z1 side) of the hinge portion 30. The force applying member links the first arm portion 10 and the second arm portion 20 and applies a force to the first arm portion 10 and the second arm portion 20 in a direction in which the first arm portion 10 and the second arm portion 20 are separated from each other. The force applying member is formed of, for example, a coil spring, an air suspension, or the like.

[0040] The straightening iron 1 is configured as described above, and is capable of clamping hair between the heating surfaces. A user of the straightening iron 1 performs styling of hair by clamping the hair between the heating surfaces in a heated state, and moving the straightening iron 1 in a desired direction.

[0041] The straightening iron 1 according to the present embodiment includes an accommodation member 40 for accommodating electronic components and the like. The accommodation member 40 is provided in a space formed between the first arm portion 10 and the second arm portion 20 that are linked via the hinge portion 30 (see FIG. 1). Figure 3

[0042] A power supply cord 81 is provided on the end portion on the rear end side (Z2 side) of the straightening iron 1. The power supply cord 81 supplies power to each electronic component (for example, a motor of the air blowing fan 44, a heater 82, and the like) in the straightening iron 1. In another embodiment, the straightening iron 1 can be of a wireless type. In the case of the wireless type, a primary battery or a secondary battery is provided inside the straightening iron 1.

[0043] (Internal configuration of the straightening iron) Next, the internal configuration of the straightening iron 1 will be described. Figure 5 ​A top view of the hair straightener 1 is shown (viewed from the Y1 side). Figures 6 to 11 The internal structure of hair straightener 1 is shown. Figure 6 The first arm cover 12 of the first arm 10 is shown after it has been removed. Figure 7 Showing from Figure 6 The state shown also shows the state where the light guide component 17 has been removed. Figure 8 The image shows the state after disassembling the components that make up the hair straightener 1. Figure 9 Show Figure 5 The cross-section of the AA line portion of the hair straightener 1 shown is illustrated. Figure 10 Show Figure 5 The cross-section of the BB line portion of the hair straightener 1 shown is illustrated. Figure 11 The cross-sectional structure of the BB wire portion of the hair straightener 1 in the open state is shown. Additionally, in Figure 11 The illustration of spring part 45 is omitted in the text.

[0044] The hair straightener 1 has an internal airflow path 16. The airflow path 16 is located inside at least one of the first arm 10 and the second arm 20. Air from the airflow fan 44 is supplied to the airflow path 16. The air passing through the airflow path 16 is blown out from the outlet 15.

[0045] The first arm 10 has a first arm body 11, a first arm cover (airflow forming component) 12, a first heating surface 13, a light guide component 17, and an airflow forming component 47 (see reference). Figure 8 The air supply path 16 is mainly formed by the first arm cover 12, the light guide component 17, and the airflow forming component 47. In this embodiment, a portion of the air supply path 16 is formed by the light guide component 17, and the other portion of the air supply path 16 is formed by the airflow forming components (specifically, the first arm cover 12 and the airflow forming component 47). The light guide component 17 guides the light emitted from the LED (light source) 18 to the outlet 15, etc.

[0046] The second arm 20 includes a second arm body 21, a second arm cover 22, and a second heating surface 23.

[0047] In this embodiment, the air supply path 16 is provided only inside the first arm 10, and no air supply path is provided in the second arm 20. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the air supply path may be provided in both the first arm 10 and the second arm 20.

[0048] The receiving component 40 is disposed between the first arm body 11 and the second arm body 21. The receiving component 40 serves to separate the space formed between the first arm body 11 and the second arm body 21.

[0049] Within the space (accommodation space 43) separated by the housing member 40, a blower fan 44, a spring 45, an ion generator 61, and electronic components (not shown) are disposed. Here, the electronic components include, for example, a control unit (control circuit) for controlling the heat supply to the first heating surface 13 and the second heating surface 23, a control unit (control circuit) for the blower fan 44, and a control unit (control circuit) for the ion generator 61.

[0050] Thus, in the hair straightener 1 according to this embodiment, a housing member 40 is arranged in the space formed between the first arm portion 10 and the second arm portion 20, and electronic components, etc., are housed inside the housing member 40. Figure 11 As shown, the housing member 40 is disposed in the region between the placement area of ​​the first heating surface 13 and the second heating surface 23 and the placement area of ​​the hinge portion 30 in the long side direction (Z direction) of the hair straightener 1. In this embodiment, the placement area of ​​the hinge portion 30 corresponds to... Figure 11 The fan 44 is positioned as shown in the diagram. As a result, since the area between each heating surface and the hinge 30 can be effectively utilized, the size of the hair straightener 1 can be reduced (especially the size reduction in the long side direction (Z direction)).

[0051] Ion generating section 61 generates positive (+) ions (e.g., H+). + (H2O) m (m is any natural number) and negative (-) ions (e.g., O2) - (H2O) n (n is any natural number) at least one of the following. Since the hair straightener 1 has an ion generating section 61, it is possible to make the air in the air supply path 16 contain ions.

[0052] (Regarding the housing components and spring section) Here, a more detailed description will be given of the housing part 40 and the spring part 45 provided in the hair straightener 1.

[0053] Figure 12 The external structure of the housing component 40 is shown. The housing component 40 includes a side portion 41, which has a generally U-shaped form when viewed from above (from the Y1 side). The upper (Y1 side) and lower (Y2 side) portions of the side portion 41 in the housing component 40 are open. The upper (Y1 side) portion of the side portion 41 is covered by the first arm body 11 of the first arm portion 10 and the airflow forming member 47. The lower (Y2 side) portion of the side portion 41 is covered by the second arm body 21 of the second arm portion 20. Within the space formed by the side portion 41, the first arm 10 and the second arm 20 of the housing component 40, a housing space 43 for housing electronic components and the like is formed.

[0054] An operation section 50 is disposed on the side portion 41 of the housing member 40. In this embodiment, the operation section 50 and the first temperature display section 55 (see reference 55) are disposed on the side portion 41 on the X1 side of the housing member 40. Figure 3 wait).

[0055] On the rear end side (Z2 side) of the housing component 40, there is a bearing portion 33 that constitutes the hinge shaft 31 of the hinge portion 30. On the outer periphery of the bearing portion 33, there is an opening portion 37 that serves as an air intake 35 for the blower fan 44.

[0056] The housing member 40 is provided with a spring portion 45, which serves as an example of a force-applying member. The spring portion 45 is formed, for example, a helical spring.

[0057] The spring portion 45 is connected to the first arm portion 10 at a position between the chain portion 30 and the first heating surface 13, and closer to the rear end (Z2 side end) of the first heating surface 13. Furthermore, it is connected to the second arm portion 20 at a position between the chain portion 30 and the second heating surface 23, and closer to the rear end (Z2 side end) of the second heating surface 23 (see reference). Figure 10 ).

[0058] The spring portion 45 applies a force in the direction in which the first arm portion 10 and the second arm portion 20 separate from each other. Thus, when the user gently holds the straightener 1 slightly in front of the hinge portion 30, without applying force to the first arm portion 10 and the second arm portion 20, the straightener 1 becomes... Figure 3 The open state is shown. Then, by the user applying force to the first arm 10 and the second arm 20, the two opposing heating surfaces can be brought close together, thereby clamping the hair between the two heating surfaces.

[0059] In this embodiment, the spring portion 45 is disposed on the front end side (Z1) within the receiving member 40. Specifically, the spring portion 45 is configured to extend along the Y direction (vertical or thickness direction) within the spring receiving portion 45a provided at the front end of the receiving member 40 (see reference). Figure 9 ).

[0060] By positioning the spring portion 45 within the front end of the receiving member 40, the distance from the hinge portion 30 to the spring portion 45 can be increased. This allows for easier adjustment of the force with which the user clamps the first arm portion 10 and the second arm portion 20. Consequently, it becomes easier to achieve the desired hair styling.

[0061] Figure 9 The cross-sectional structure of the hair straightener 1 in its configuration position at the spring section 45 is shown. Here, the cross-section of the hair straightener 1 refers to a section orthogonal to the long side direction (Z direction) of the hair straightener 1. Figure 9In this configuration, when the overlap direction of the first arm portion 10 and the second arm portion 20 is set as the Y direction (also known as the vertical direction or thickness direction), and the direction orthogonal to the Y direction is set as the X direction (also known as the horizontal direction or width direction), the spring portion 45 is arranged along the Y direction (vertical direction) at approximately the center position in the X direction (horizontal direction).

[0062] That is, the spring portion 45 is disposed on an imaginary surface, which includes a central axis extending along the long side direction (Z direction) of the first arm portion 10 and a central axis extending along the long side direction (Z direction) of the second arm portion 20.

[0063] Based on the above configuration, forces from the first arm 10 side and the second arm 20 side can be applied evenly to each heating surface. Therefore, the operability when the user clamps hair can be improved.

[0064] (Regarding the hinge section and air intake) Next, a more detailed description will be given of the hinge section 30 and the air intake 35 provided in the hair straightener 1. Figure 13 The appearance of the rear end portion of the hair straightener 1, which is equipped with a hinge section 30, is shown. Figure 14 The diagram shows the state after disassembling the components of the hinge section 30. Figure 15 The internal structure around the hinge section 30 is shown. Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of the X2 side of the rear end portion of the hair straightener 1.

[0065] The hinge portion 30 connects the first arm portion 10 and the second arm portion 20 in a manner that allows them to swing relative to each other. The hinge portion 30 is respectively provided on the side surfaces of both sides in the width direction (X direction) of the hair straightener 1 (see reference). Figure 15 The hinge portion 30 on one side (e.g., the X1 side) and the hinge portion 30 on the other side (e.g., the X2 side) are configured symmetrically. The hinge portion 30 includes a hinge shaft 31, an air intake cover 32, and a bearing portion 33, etc.

[0066] The hinge shaft 31 is axially supported by a bearing portion 33 provided on the housing member 40. An opening 37 is provided on the outer periphery of the bearing portion 33 to serve as an air intake 35 for the blower fan 44 (see reference). Figure 14 Thus, when viewed from the side of the hair straightener 1, the air intake 35 is located around the hinge shaft 31.

[0067] The intake port cover 32 is disposed on the outside of the hinge shaft 31. The intake port cover 32 is provided such that it covers the intake port 35 when viewed from the side. An inclined surface 36 is provided on the outer periphery of the opening 37, which is inclined toward the intake port 35 (specifically, the opening 37). The inclined surface 36 is provided at a position corresponding to the outer periphery of the intake port cover 32.

[0068] In this embodiment, the bearing portion 33 and the inclined surface 36 are provided on the left and right sides of the housing member 40 (specifically, the left and right sides of the rear side of the side portion 41). The outer periphery of the air intake cover 32 is disposed opposite to the inclined surface 36. The inclined surface 36 can be a plane or a curved surface.

[0069] The outer surface of the intake cap 32 is located on approximately the same plane as the side of the first arm 10 (specifically, the first arm body 11) and the side of the second arm 20 (specifically, the second arm body 21) (see reference). Figure 15 Here, "approximately the same surface" includes not only the case where all surfaces are on the same surface, but also the case where the outer surface of the air intake cover 32 protrudes slightly outward, or the case where the outer surface of the air intake cover 32 is slightly recessed inward, etc.

[0070] In this embodiment, in the region where the hinge portion 30 is provided, the housing member 40 is located further outward than the first arm portion 10 and the second arm portion 20. More specifically, in the region where the hinge portion 30 is provided, the main body of the hair straightener 1 is provided with the bearing portion 33 of the housing member 40, the bearing portion 29 of the second arm portion 20, and the bearing portion 19 of the first arm portion 10 (see reference 10) sequentially from the outer casing side. Figure 15 ).

[0071] The hinge axis 31 is inserted into each of these bearing parts. As a result, the first arm 10 and the second arm 20 swing about the hinge axis 31 as the base point.

[0072] As described above, in the region where the hinge portion 30 is provided, by placing the receiving member 40 on the outermost side, the internal capacity of the receiving member 40 can be further increased.

[0073] In this embodiment, the intake cap 32 has a generally circular shape when viewed from the side of the hair straightener 1. The opening 37 of the receiving member 40, which is provided corresponding to the generally circular intake cap 32, has a generally circular shape along the outer periphery of the central bearing portion 33. Furthermore, the inclined surface 36 is formed in a generally circular shape to surround the outer side of the generally circular opening 37.

[0074] Furthermore, in other embodiments, the shape of the opening 37 of the receiving member 40 may also be polygonal (e.g., rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, etc.) when viewed from the side. In this case, the intake cap 32 may correspond to the shape of the opening 37 and be polygonal (e.g., rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, etc.) when viewed from the side, or it may be circular.

[0075] As described above, the air intake cover 32 is preferably provided in a manner that covers the air intake 35 when viewed from the side. That is, it is preferably in a state where the opening 37 of the air intake 35 is not visually discernible when viewed from the side of the hair straightener 1. As a result, it is difficult for debris or other contaminants in the air to flow into the interior of the hair straightener 1 from the air intake 35.

[0076] Furthermore, by providing an inclined surface 36 around the opening 37, the flow of air toward the opening 37 can be made smoother. Figure 13 As shown, the gap between the air intake cover 32 and the inclined surface 36 becomes the air intake 35, and air is supplied from the gap toward the internal air supply fan 44.

[0077] The blower fan 44 is disposed on the rear end side (Z2 side) within the housing member 40. When viewed from the side of the straightener 1, the blower fan 44 is disposed at a position overlapping with the placement position of the hinge portion 30. Furthermore, an air intake 35 for guiding air to the blower fan 44 is provided around the hinge shaft 31 that forms the hinge portion 30.

[0078] With this configuration, the length of the straightener 1 in the long side direction (Z direction) can be shortened. In particular, the length of the rear end side (Z1 side) of the straightener 1 can be shortened.

[0079] The air generated by the blower fan 44 passes through the air supply path 16 provided within the first arm 10 and is blown out from the blowout 15 provided on the side of the first arm 10. The blower fan 44 is, for example, a multi-blade fan, a turbine fan, an axial fan, etc.

[0080] (Regarding the air supply path and air outlet) Next, a more detailed description will be given of the air supply path 16 provided in the hair straightener 1 and its surroundings.

[0081] In the hair straightener 1, a blowout 15 is provided on the side of the first arm portion 10. More specifically, as... Figure 5 As shown, a blowout 15a is provided on the X1 side of the first arm 10, and a blowout 15b is provided on the X2 side of the first arm 10.

[0082] An airflow path 16 is provided inside the first arm 10 of the hair straightener 1 to guide air from the blower fan 44 to the outlet 15. The airflow path 16 is formed by the first arm body 11, the first arm cover 12, the light guide component 17, and the airflow path forming component 47. Specifically, the upstream side (Z2 side) of the airflow path 16 is mainly formed by the first arm body 11 and the airflow path forming component 47, and the downstream side (Z1 side) of the airflow path 16 is mainly formed by the first arm cover 12 and the light guide component 17 (see reference). Figure 10 wait).

[0083] The hair straightener 1 of this embodiment has a light source (specifically, an LED 18) that illuminates the airflow path 16. Furthermore, at least a portion of the airflow path 16 is formed by a light guide member 17 that guides the light irradiated from the light source. Thus, the irradiated light from the LED 18 can be directed to the blow-out port 15.

[0084] Figure 7 The image shows the state after the first arm cover 12 and the light guide component 17 have been removed from the main body of the hair straightener 1. The light guide component 17 directs light irradiated from the LED 18 to the blow-out port 15, etc. The light guide component 17 is formed of a light-transmitting material. The light guide component 17 is also preferably formed of a light-resistant material. The materials forming the light guide component 17 are, for example, acrylic resin, polycarbonate, glass, etc. The LED 18 is disposed on the rear end side (Z2 side) of the light guide component 17 and irradiates light into the airflow path 16.

[0085] Figure 16 The structure of the lower surface 17b (the surface on the Y2 side) of the light guide component 17 is shown. Figure 17 The cross-sectional structure of the light guide component 17 is shown. Figure 18 The direction of the airflow from the hair straightener is shown schematically.

[0086] In this embodiment, the light guide member 17 forms part of the bottom surface (the surface on the Y2 side) of the air delivery path 16. The light guide member 17 has a generally semi-circular dome shape. Hereinafter, based on its position in the state of being disposed within the hair straightener 1, each surface of the light guide member 17 will be referred to as the upper surface 17a and the lower surface 17b.

[0087] The upper surface 17a of the light guide component 17 forms a raised surface in the shape of a semi-circular dome. That is, the upper surface 17a has a shape that curves and bulges from its two sides (the X1 side end and the X2 side end) toward the center.

[0088] The upper surface 17a has this shape, thus enabling the light guide component 17 to change the airflow direction. Specifically, firstly, the direction of the airflow traveling towards the front end (Z1 side) within the airflow path 16 is changed to the side sides (X1 side and X2 side) where the blowouts 15a and 15b are located. Furthermore, the airflow direction can be changed so that the air blown out from the blowouts 15a and 15b is directed towards the hair H sandwiched between the first heating surface 13 and the second heating surface 23 (see reference). Figure 18 ).

[0089] like Figure 16As shown, a plurality of recesses (specifically, recesses 17c and 17d) are provided on the lower surface 17b of the light guide member 17. Recess 17c has a generally V-shaped profile, widening towards the front end (Z1 side) when viewed from below. The end of recess 17c forms an inclined surface 17e whose depth gradually decreases towards the flat portion of the lower surface 17b. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the inclined surface 17e becomes a curved R-surface (see reference). Figure 17 ).

[0090] Recess 17d is located further rearward (Z2 side) than recess 17c. Recess 17c houses an LED 18. In this embodiment, the airflow path 16 has two LEDs 18, thus correspondingly forming two recesses 17d. However, in other embodiments, the LED and the recess may be a single unit.

[0091] Figure 19 The arrows schematically illustrate the travel of the emitted light from LED 18 within the light guide member 17. The light emitted from LED 18 diffuses radially towards the front end side (Z1 side). Furthermore, due to the front side surface 17f of the recess 17d... Figure 19 As shown by the tilt, the emitted light from LED18 is directed to the side (in Figure 19 The example shown is the X2 side, which is further expanded.

[0092] Then, most of the light traveling within the light guide member 17 changes its travel path to the side (X1 side or X2 side) through the inclined surface 17e of the recess 17c. Thus, most of the light traveling within the light guide member 17 can be directed to the respective blowouts 15a and 15b. Therefore, the intensity of the light visually perceived from the blowout 15 can be increased.

[0093] As described above, by changing the shape of the light guide member 17, the light from the LED 18 can be guided more effectively toward the opening of the blow-out port 15. For example, by forming a generally V-shaped recess 17c and making the inclined surface 17e of the recess 17c R-shaped, the portion that produces shadows can be reduced, and the light from the LED 18 can be guided more effectively toward the blow-out port 15.

[0094] Furthermore, at least a portion of the light guide component 17 is preferably configured to be visually recognizable from the opening of the blow-out port 15. This further enhances the visual recognizability of the light emitted from the LED 18.

[0095] In this embodiment, such as Figure 20 and Figure 21As shown, when the opening of the blow-out nozzle 15 is viewed from the front (i.e., from the X1 side or the X2 side), the light guide member 17 extends from the front end side (Z1 side) of the opening to the rear end side (Z2 side). Therefore, the light emitted by the light guide member 17 can be visually recognized from the entire opening.

[0096] Furthermore, in other embodiments, a portion of the light guide component may also be exposed on the outer surface of the first arm 10 or the second arm 20. For example, a portion or all of the first arm cover 12 of the first arm 10 may also be formed of a light guide component.

[0097] The LED 18 is controlled to be turned on / off by the control unit 70 (specifically, the LED control unit 72), described later. For example, it is preferable that the LED 18 is lit when the hair straightener 1 is running (the heater is on and the fan is on). This allows the user to easily visually determine the position of the blow-out 15. In addition, the LED 18 can also emit colored light (e.g., blue). This makes the position of the blow-out 15 more conspicuous, and the user can more easily identify the position of the blow-out 15.

[0098] Furthermore, LED18 can also emit light of multiple colors. In this case, LED18 can emit different colors of light when the straightener 1 is running with airflow (heater on and fan on) and when it is running without airflow (heater on and fan off).

[0099] Based on the above configuration, the blow-out 15 in the hair straightener 1 with airflow function is visually prominent, making it easy for the user to identify its location. This further improves operability when using the hair straightener 1.

[0100] The air supply path 16 is provided with a positive ion electrode 62 and a negative ion electrode 63 of the ion generation unit 61. As a result, positive and negative ions can be supplied to the air passing through the air supply path 16.

[0101] In one example, the ion generating unit 61 generates ions in conjunction with the operation of the air supply fan 44. That is, when the air supply fan 44 starts running, the ion generating unit 61 starts generating ions, and when the air supply fan 44 stops running, the ion generating unit 61 stops generating ions.

[0102] In this embodiment, the negative ion electrode 63 is positioned closer to the outlet 15 than the positive ion electrode 62 (see reference). Figure 10 (etc.). That is, the negative ion electrode 63 is located further downstream of the airflow than the positive ion electrode 62. As a result, the air blown out from the outlet 15 contains more negative ions. Since human hair easily carries a positive charge, blowing air containing more negative ions onto the hair can further improve the static electricity removal effect.

[0103] In addition, such as Figure 10 As shown, when the hair straightener 1 is viewed from the side in its closed state, the positive ion electrode 62 and the negative ion electrode 63 are positioned differently in the vertical direction (Y direction). Furthermore, in the ion generating section 61, a rib (separator) 64 is provided to separate the positive ion electrode 62 and the negative ion electrode 63. By providing such a rib 64, it is possible to suppress the situation where positive and negative ions generated from each electrode cancel each other out within the airflow path 16, thereby preventing a decrease in the amount of ions.

[0104] (Regarding the Control Department and Operations Department) Next, refer to Figure 22 The internal structure of the control unit 70 and other components located in the hair straightener 1 will be described. For example... Figure 22 As shown, the hair straightener 1 includes a control unit 70, a blower fan 44, a heater 82, a temperature sensor 83, an LED 18, a temperature indicator light 56, and an operation unit 50. The heater 82 supplies heat to the first heating surface 13 and the second heating surface 23. The temperature sensor 83 is disposed, for example, inside the first arm portion 10, to detect the temperature of the first arm portion 10.

[0105] The control unit 70 consists of control circuitry housed within the housing component 40. The control unit 70 includes a fan control unit 71, an LED control unit 72, a heater control unit 73, a memory 76, a timer 77, and the like. Based on the operations performed by the operation unit 50 and the detection results from the temperature sensor 83, the control unit 70 controls the operation of the fan motor 44, the heater 82, the LED 18, and the temperature indicator light 56.

[0106] The fan control unit 71 controls the operation of the motor of the air supply fan 44. The fan control unit 71 starts (ON) and stops (OFF) the operation of the motor of the air supply fan 44 according to the instructions from the operation unit 50.

[0107] The LED control unit 72 controls the on / off state of the LED 18. Furthermore, when the LED 18 can emit multiple colors of light, the LED control unit 72 can also control the display color of the LED 18. Further, the LED control unit 72 also controls the ON / OFF state of the LEDs of the temperature display lamp 56 of the first temperature display unit 55.

[0108] The heater control unit 73 controls the ON / OFF state of the heater 82. The heater control unit 73 accepts user input via the temperature increase button 52a or temperature decrease button 52b within the operation unit 50, and changes the set temperature of the heater 82.

[0109] The memory 76 includes ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory). The memory 76 stores the operating program and setting data of the straightener 1, and temporarily stores the calculation results based on the control unit 70. The timer 77 measures the processing time performed in the control unit 70 and the operating time of each component in the straightener 1 as needed.

[0110] Next, the operation unit 50 and the first temperature display unit 55 provided on the side portion 41 of the housing member 40 will be described.

[0111] like Figure 4 As shown, the operation unit 50 is located on the side portion 41 of the housing member 40, closer to the hinge portion 30. In this embodiment, the operation unit 50 includes a power button 51, a temperature increase button 52a, and a temperature decrease button 52b.

[0112] The power button 51 is pressed when power is supplied to the hair straightener 1. In the hair straightener 1 when operation is stopped, pressing the power button 51 by the user activates the fan control unit 71 to start the motor of the air blower fan 44, and the heater control unit 73 begins heating the heater 82. In one embodiment, in the hair straightener 1 when operation is stopped, pressing the power button 51 by the user causes the LED control unit 72 to illuminate the LED 18 in a predetermined color.

[0113] Additionally, in the operating hair straightener 1, the heater control unit 73 stops the heater 82 from heating by the user pressing the power button 51. Furthermore, the fan control unit 71 can either stop the motor of the air blower fan 44 at this time or not stop it.

[0114] If the motor is not stopped at that moment, the fan control unit 71 stops the motor when the detected temperature drops below a predetermined value, based on the detection result of the temperature sensor 83. Such control is feasible when the power cord 81 is continuously powered, or when a battery is installed inside the hair straightener 1.

[0115] The side portion 41 of the receiving member 40 is more recessed than the side portion of the first arm portion 10 and the side portion of the second arm portion 20. By arranging the operating part 50 on such a side portion 41, the possibility of the user accidentally pressing the operating part 50 can be reduced.

[0116] In addition, such as Figure 1As shown, with the first arm 10 and the second arm 20 closed, the upper end (end on the Y1 side) and lower end (end on the Y2 side) of the operation section 50 are each covered by one of the first arm 10 and the second arm 20. In this way, by hiding the upper and lower ends of the operation section 50 by the first arm 10 and the second arm 20, the possibility of the user accidentally pressing the buttons on the operation section 50 while using the hair straightener 1 can be further reduced.

[0117] like Figure 4 As shown, the first temperature display unit 55 is located on the side portion 41 of the housing member 40, further forward (Z1 side) than the operation portion 50. The first temperature display unit 55 displays the set temperature of the heater 82. That is, the first temperature display unit 55 can also be referred to as the set temperature display unit.

[0118] The first temperature display unit 55 includes a temperature display lamp 56 and a printing section 57. The temperature display lamp 56 is composed of multiple LEDs. The printing section 57 is disposed above the temperature display lamp 56 (Y1 side). For example, the printing section 57 is a number printed above each LED, which is a value indicating the currently selected set temperature (e.g., "200", "180", "160", "140", "120", etc.).

[0119] When the user operates the temperature increase button 52a or the temperature decrease button 52b, the corresponding temperature display light 56 ​​illuminates.

[0120] like Figure 2 As shown, when the hair straightener 1 is in the closed state, the temperature display lamp 56 in the first temperature display section 55 is covered by the second arm section 20.

[0121] Thus, when the hair straightener 1 is in a closed state (i.e., when the first heating surface 13 is close to the second heating surface 23), at least a portion of the first temperature display section 55 can be covered by the first arm section 10 or the second arm section 20.

[0122] In this embodiment, when the hair straightener 1 is in the closed state, the temperature display lamp 56, which is part of the first temperature display unit 55, is covered by the first arm 10 or the second arm 20, and most of the printing part 57, which is part of the first temperature display unit 55, is exposed. In this way, even when the hair straightener 1 is in the closed state, by exposing the printing part 57, it is possible to suppress blurring of the printing caused by friction due to the opening and closing of each arm.

[0123] (Regarding the control method of the air supply fan) Next, the control method of the blower fan 44 using the operation unit 50 in the hair straightener 1 will be explained.

[0124] The fan control unit 71 starts (ON) and stops (OFF) the motor of the air supply fan 44 according to the instructions from the operation unit 50.

[0125] For example, in the hair straightener 1 during a period of inactivity, the fan control unit 71 starts the motor of the blower fan 44 by the user pressing the power button 51 on the operation unit 50.

[0126] Furthermore, for the hair straightener 1 according to this embodiment, the operation of the blower fan 44 can be stopped (OFF) by the user performing a prescribed operation on the operation unit 50 during use (while the heater is heating). Then, by performing a prescribed operation on the operation unit 50 during use, the operation of the blower fan 44, which has been temporarily stopped, can be restarted (ON). Thus, in this embodiment, an operation unit 50 is provided that allows the blower fan 44 to be ON or OFF according to the user's wishes during use of the hair straightener 1 (while the heater is heating).

[0127] As an example of an operation method to stop the operation of the blower fan 44 when using the hair straightener 1, one can press and hold the power button 51 of the operation unit 50. Alternatively, the operation unit 50 may have a dedicated button for turning the blower fan 44 ON and OFF, which can also be used to turn the blower fan 44 ON and OFF.

[0128] Alternatively, the operating unit 50 may include a knob-type operating unit or a slide switch-type operating unit. In this case, the operating unit may include at least three options: a power OFF (heater OFF) option, a power ON and fan ON option, and a power ON and fan OFF option.

[0129] Based on the above configuration, for example, users can select whether or not airflow is supplied depending on the area being styled and the styling method. If the airflow from the blow-out 15 becomes an obstacle to styling, the user can stop the airflow, thus improving the convenience of hair styling operations using the hair straightener 1.

[0130] Furthermore, the fan control unit 71 can also control the speed and direction of rotation of the motor of the blower fan 44. For example, when the user operates the airflow adjustment button (not shown) in the operation unit 50, the fan control unit 71 can increase or decrease the speed of the motor. As a result, the strength of the airflow from the blowout 15 can be changed, thus further improving the convenience of hair styling operations using the hair straightener 1.

[0131] Additionally, for example, if the user presses the dust removal button (not shown) in the operation unit 50, the fan control unit 71 can cause the motor to rotate in the opposite direction to the normal direction (when using the hair straightener 1). As a result, airflow from the outlet 15 to the intake 35 can be formed in the air supply path 16, thus removing dust and the like from the air supply path 16.

[0132] Based on the above configuration, in the hair straightener 1 with air supply function, the user can select whether air supply is present or absent according to their expectations, thus further improving convenience.

[0133] (Instructions on how to display the temperature of the hair straightener after use) Next, the method for determining the temperature of the hair straightener 1 and displaying the determination result after the use of the hair straightener 1 is completed will be explained below.

[0134] Figure 23 The internal structure of hair straightener 1 is shown when the temperature is displayed after use. Figure 23 As shown, the hair straightener 1, based on the above configuration, also includes a temperature determination unit 74 within the control unit 70.

[0135] The temperature determination unit 74 determines the temperature of at least one of the temperatures of the first arm portion 10 and the second arm portion 20. Here, the temperature of the first arm portion 10 refers to: the temperature of the first heating surface 13, or the surface temperature of the outer shell of the first arm portion 10 (e.g., the first arm cover 12), or the surface temperature of the outer shell of the first arm portion 10 estimated based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 83 located inside the first arm portion 10.

[0136] Similarly, the temperature of the second arm 20 refers to the temperature of the second heating surface 23, or the surface temperature of the outer shell of the second arm 20 (e.g., the second arm cover 22), or the surface temperature of the outer shell of the second arm 20 estimated based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 83 located inside the second arm 20.

[0137] In one example, the temperature determination unit 74 determines the temperature of the first arm 10. In other examples, the temperature determination unit 74 can also determine the temperature of the second arm 20, or the temperatures of both arms. Furthermore, when measuring the temperature of one arm, it can be determined that the temperature of the other arm is approximately the same based on the measurement of the temperature of one arm.

[0138] In addition, the hair straightener 1 includes a temperature display unit that displays the result based on the determination result of the temperature determination unit 74.

[0139] The temperature display unit will display the temperature at least after the use of the hair straightener 1 has ended. Here, "after the use of the hair straightener 1 has ended" means, for example, after the user turns off the main power (e.g., power button 51). When the main power is turned off, the heating of the first heating surface 13 and the second heating surface 23, as well as the generation of ions from the ion generating unit 61, ends. Furthermore, at this point, the air blower 44 can be stopped or not, but the air blower 44 can be stopped when the temperature of the hair straightener 1 drops below a predetermined value.

[0140] Furthermore, in the case where the hair straightener 1 does not include a fan, heating of the first heating surface 13 and the second heating surface 23 can be stopped when the main power is disconnected. Additionally, in the case of a hair straightener 1 that does not include an ion generating section, heating of the first heating surface 13 and the second heating surface 23 can be stopped when the main power is disconnected.

[0141] In one example, the system can be controlled to automatically shut off the main power supply if the absence of input to the operating unit continues for a specified period of time. The hair straightener can also be controlled to automatically disconnect the main power supply if the absence of input to the operating unit continues for a specified period of time. In this case, it can be determined that "the use of the hair straightener has ended."

[0142] In this embodiment, the light guide member 17, which includes the LED 18 (light-emitting part), serves as a temperature display unit. That is, the light-emitting part (LED 18) that illuminates the air supply path 16 functions as a temperature display unit that displays the temperature determination result based on the temperature determination unit 74 after the use of the hair straightener 1 has ended.

[0143] In one embodiment, when the hair straightener 1 is in a high-temperature state immediately after the main power supply is disconnected, LED 18 is illuminated in a predetermined color (e.g., red) to inform the user that the hair straightener 1 is at a high temperature. Then, when the hair straightener 1 cools to below a predetermined temperature (e.g., below 40°C), LED 18 is turned off. When the LED is off, the air blower 44 also shuts off. Thus, the user can recognize that the temperature of the hair straightener 1 has sufficiently decreased, and therefore can place the hair straightener 1 in a designated location. Furthermore, during the use of the hair straightener 1, to inform the user of ion generation, LED 18 may also emit blue light, for example.

[0144] The temperature display unit preferably has a light source whose emission color changes according to the temperature determined by the temperature determination unit 74. Specifically, the LED 18 is preferably multi-color emitting. Furthermore, the LED control unit 72 preferably controls the LED 18 based on the temperature determined by the temperature determination unit 74, so that the LED 18 emits light of a color corresponding to the corresponding temperature.

[0145] For example, when the temperature determined by the temperature determination unit 74 is higher than a first predetermined temperature (e.g., exceeding 60°C), the LED control unit 72 causes the LED 18 to emit red light. Then, when the temperature determined by the temperature determination unit 74 is lower than the first predetermined temperature (e.g., below 60°C), the LED control unit 72 causes the LED 18 to emit orange or yellow light. Furthermore, when the temperature determined by the temperature determination unit 74 becomes lower than a second predetermined temperature (e.g., below 40°C), the LED control unit 72 turns off the LED 18. When the LED is off, the air supply fan 44 also turns off.

[0146] Preferably, when the temperature determined by the temperature determination unit 74 falls below a predetermined value (e.g., below 40°C), the temperature display unit (e.g., LED 18) stops displaying. This suppresses unnecessary power consumption. Such control is feasible when the power supply is continuously provided from the power plug via the power cord 81, or when the hair straightener 1 has an internal battery.

[0147] When powered by the power plug, the temperature display (e.g., LED 18) also turns off when the power plug is unplugged. By setting the power plug to the connected state when the use of the straightener 1 ends (when the main power is disconnected), power can continue to be supplied to the control unit 70 and the LED 18 can remain lit.

[0148] When the hair straightener 1 has a battery (primary battery and secondary battery), the battery continues to supply power even after the user disconnects the main power supply when finished using it, and the temperature display (e.g., LED 18) remains lit. When the temperature drops, LED 18 turns off, and the power supply to the control unit 70 is disconnected. In this way, battery consumption can be reduced. Furthermore, even when connected to a commercial power supply, the power supply to the control unit 70 can be turned off.

[0149] Based on the above configuration, users can identify the temperature of the hair straightener 1 after use, thus further improving convenience.

[0150] <Second Implementation Method> Next, the second embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, an example of a temperature display unit that displays the determination result based on the temperature determination unit 74, with the light guide member 17 and LED 18 provided in the air supply path 16, was described. In this embodiment, the configuration of the temperature display unit being provided at the front end of the hair straightener will be described.

[0151] Figure 24 The appearance of the hair straightener 101 according to the second embodiment is shown. Similar to the hair straightener 1 of the first embodiment, the hair straightener 101 includes a first arm portion 10, a second arm portion 20, and a hinge portion 30.

[0152] A second temperature display unit 155 is provided on the upper surface (Y1 side) of the front end side (Z1 side) of the first arm portion 10 of the hair straightener 101. The second temperature display unit 155 functions as a temperature display unit that displays the temperature determination result based on the temperature determination unit 74 after the hair straightener 101 has been used.

[0153] The second temperature display unit 155 includes a light source (e.g., an LED). As described in the first embodiment, the light source can change the color of its emitted light according to the temperature determined by the temperature determination unit 74. Similarly to the first embodiment, preferably, the second temperature display unit 155 stops displaying when the temperature determined by the temperature determination unit 74 becomes below a predetermined value (e.g., below 40°C).

[0154] In another embodiment, the second temperature display unit 155 may also include a paint whose color changes according to temperature instead of a light source.

[0155] In one example, such as Figure 24 As shown, the second temperature display unit 155 is disposed on the upper surface (Y1 side) of the front end side (Z1 side) of the first arm portion 10. In this case, the second temperature display unit 155 can be formed by applying a paint with a color that changes according to temperature along the front-back direction (Z direction) on a part of the surface of the first arm cover 12 of the first arm portion 10.

[0156] In another example, a color-varying coating that varies with temperature can be applied to the entire surface of the first arm cover 12. Additionally, in yet another example, a color-varying coating that varies with temperature can be applied around the blowhole 15.

[0157] As described above, a second temperature display unit 155 containing a paint whose color changes with temperature may be provided in at least one of the first heating surface 13, the second heating surface 23, the outer shell of the first arm portion 10 covering the back of the first heating surface 13 (specifically, the first arm cover 12), and the outer shell of the second arm portion 20 covering the back of the second heating surface 23 (specifically, the second arm cover 22).

[0158] Based on the above configuration, users can identify the temperature of the hair straightener 101 after use, thus further improving convenience.

[0159] In the hair straightener 101, the same configuration as in the first embodiment can be applied to the components other than the second temperature display unit 155. Furthermore, the LED 18 provided in the airflow path 16 can be lit only during the use of the hair straightener 1, or it can remain lit for a certain period after use (e.g., during the operation of the airflow fan 44). The LED 18 provided in the airflow path 16 can emit blue light, for example, to inform the user of ion generation during the use of the hair straightener 1.

[0160] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is defined by the claims rather than the foregoing description and is intended to include all modifications having the same meaning as and within the scope of the claims. Furthermore, configurations obtained by combining the different embodiments described in this specification are also included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A straightening iron comprising: a first arm portion having a first heating surface on a front end side in a longitudinal direction; a second arm portion having a second heating surface opposite to the first heating surface on the front end side in the longitudinal direction; a hinge portion provided on a rear end side in the longitudinal direction and linking the first arm portion and the second arm portion in a swingable manner; a force applying member linking the first arm portion and the second arm portion and applying a force to the first arm portion and the second arm portion in a direction of separation from each other, the force applying member being linked to the first arm portion at a position between the hinge portion and the first heating surface and at a position closer to an end of the rear end side of the first heating surface, and being linked to the second arm portion at a position between the hinge portion and the second heating surface and at a position closer to an end of the rear end side of the second heating surface.

2. The straightening iron according to claim 1, wherein a housing member housing an electronic member is further provided in a space formed between the first arm portion and the second arm portion linked via the hinge portion.

3. The straightening iron according to claim 2, wherein the housing member has a side surface portion having a substantially U-shaped shape, an upper side of the side surface portion is covered by the first arm portion, a lower side of the side surface portion is covered by the second arm portion, the electronic member is housed in a space formed by the side surface portion of the housing member, the first arm portion, and the second arm portion.

4. The straightening iron according to claim 3, wherein a temperature display portion is provided on an outer surface side of the side surface portion.

5. The straightening iron of claim 4, wherein the heating element is a wire having a diameter of 0.5 mm to 2 mm. Further comprising: at least a part of the temperature display portion is covered and hidden by the first arm portion or the second arm portion in a state where the first heating surface and the second heating surface are close to each other.

6. The straightening iron according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the force applying member is provided on the front end side in the housing member.

7. The straightening iron according to claim 6, wherein in a cross section of the straightening iron orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, in a case where a direction of overlap of the first arm portion and the second arm portion is set as an up-down direction and a direction orthogonal to the up-down direction is set as a left-right direction, the force applying member is provided at a substantially central position in the left-right direction in the up-down direction.

8. The straightening iron according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein in a cross section of the straightening iron orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, in a case where a direction of overlap of the first arm portion and the second arm portion is set as an up-down direction and a direction orthogonal to the up-down direction is set as a left-right direction, the force applying member is provided at a substantially central position in the left-right direction in the up-down direction.

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