Systems, methods, and apparatus for drying hair

Abstract

A system for drying hair is described. The system includes one or more hair care tools configured to dry and / or style hair, one or more humidity sensors configured to measure a humidity level of the hair, and a processor configured to adjust one or more parameters of the one or more hair care tools. A hairbrush is also described. The hairbrush includes a heating element for drying hair by conducting heat toward the hair, one or more humidity sensors configured to measure a humidity level of the hair, and a processor configured to adjust a temperature of the heating element based on the measured humidity level. A hairdryer is also described. The hairdryer includes an airflow generator configured to generate a heated airflow for drying hair by convecting heat toward the hair, one or more humidity sensors configured to measure a humidity level of the hair, and a processor configured to adjust one or more parameters of the airflow generator based on the measured humidity level.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Users of hair care tools can apply heat to their hair for the purpose of drying and / or styling. Different hair care tools can be used consecutively to apply heat in different ways, depending on the user's needs. Summary of the Invention

[0002] In a general sense, the present invention provides methods, systems, and apparatuses for achieving a more efficient process for drying hair by adaptively applying both conductive and convective heat to the hair to achieve desired hair effects. For example, the methods, systems, and apparatuses described herein can provide users of the systems and apparatuses described herein with drier hair and / or faster hair drying and / or more desirable drying / styling results.

[0003] A method for drying hair is provided. The method includes: applying heat to the hair via a conductive heat source; simultaneously applying heat to the hair via a convective heat source; monitoring one or more characteristics associated with hair drying; and adjusting one or more parameters of the conductive heat source and / or the convective heat source based on the monitoring.

[0004] In some examples, monitoring one or more properties associated with hair dryness can also be performed simultaneously (or at least partially simultaneously, i.e., overlapping) with the simultaneous application of heat by both conductive and convective heat sources.

[0005] Applying heat via a conductive heat source can be understood as applying conductive heat to the hair. Applying heat via a conductive heat source may involve physical contact between the heating device and the hair, such that the heat generated by the heating device is transferred to the hair through conduction. Placing the heating device in physical contact with the hair can include placing the heating element of the heating device in direct physical contact with the hair. Alternatively, the heating element may be shielded to prevent direct physical contact with the hair, and in this case, a shielding layer may be placed between the heating element and the hair to reduce the risk of burning the hair. The shielding layer may be an element of the heating device that is in direct physical contact with the hair, such that the heat generated by the heating element is conducted to the hair through the shielding layer. In some examples, the shielding layer may be a wraparound layer that completely or partially surrounds the heating element. In other examples, the shielding layer may not be a layer that completely surrounds the heating element, but rather any suitable physical structure that forms a barrier between the heating element and the hair when the heating device is in contact with the hair (i.e., applied to the hair).

[0006] Applying heat through a convective heat source can be understood as applying convective heat to the hair. Applying heat through a convective heat source can include directing airflow towards the hair, so that the heat carried in the airflow is transferred to the hair. In some examples, the airflow can lift water away from the hair, entraining the water as water vapor within the airflow and carrying the water (in the form of water vapor) away from the hair, thereby drying the hair. In some examples, the airflow can be heated, i.e., heated to a temperature above room temperature. Alternatively, the airflow may not be heated, and could even be a "cold" airflow. A cold airflow can be understood as an airflow that has cooled relative to room temperature; that is, the temperature of the airflow can be below room temperature.

[0007] In some examples, applying heat to a convection heat source may include generating an airflow, and then directing the generated airflow toward the hair as described above.

[0008] One or more characteristics associated with hair dryness may include inherent characteristics of the hair. These inherent characteristics may include, for example, any one or more of the following: hair moisture content (e.g., the percentage of total hair mass consisting of water), hair relative humidity (e.g., humidity relative to the air), and / or hair temperature.

[0009] Additionally or alternatively, one or more attributes associated with hair dryness may include contextual attributes associated with the user and / or environment. For example, contextual attributes may include any one or more of the following: one or more user preferences for conductive and convective heat sources input by the user, contextual user attributes associated with the user, and / or contextual attributes associated with the user's geographical location.

[0010] The method described herein can provide users with several benefits, including: reducing the amount of time required to dry and style hair, increasing the efficiency of the systems and devices used to perform the method (e.g., in terms of energy consumption), and / or achieving the hair results that users prefer (e.g., longer-lasting hairstyles, more aesthetically pleasing hairstyles, and / or greater control over the resulting hairstyle).

[0011] In some examples, the efficiency of the apparatus associated with the method described herein can be improved relative to previous methods. For example, the efficiency of this method can be three times that of current methods. The efficiency of a drying method can be understood as an indicator of the ratio between the theoretical energy required to heat the hair and the actual energy used to heat the hair in the same amount. For example, the efficiency of a drying method can be derived by calculating the theoretical minimum energy required to raise the temperature of the hair and water to the apparatus temperature and to evaporate the water from the surrounding environment, and then dividing it by the measured energy used to dry the hair and remove the water.

[0012] In some embodiments, the method may include applying heat for 60 seconds or less by means of conductive and convective heat sources.

[0013] Alternatively, in some instances, the method may include applying heat by conductive and convective heat sources for 180 seconds or less, 150 seconds or less, 120 seconds or less, 90 seconds or less, 45 seconds or less, or 30 seconds or less.

[0014] In some examples, the method may include applying heat for 30 seconds or longer, 45 seconds or longer, 90 seconds or longer, 120 seconds or longer, 150 seconds or longer, or 180 seconds or longer by conductive and convective heat sources.

[0015] In some examples, the method may include applying heat via conductive and convective heat sources for a duration between 30 and 180 seconds, 30 and 150 seconds, 30 and 120 seconds, 30 and 90 seconds, 30 and 60 seconds, 30 and 45 seconds, 45 and 180 seconds, 45 and 150 seconds, 45 and 120 seconds, 45 and 90 seconds, 45 and 60 seconds, 60 and 180 seconds, 60 and 150 seconds, 60 and 120 seconds, 60 and 90 seconds, 90 and 180 seconds, 90 and 150 seconds, 90 and 120 seconds, 120 and 180 seconds, 120 and 150 seconds, or 150 and 180 seconds.

[0016] Alternatively, the application of this method can be limited by the number of “passes” of the conductive and convective heat sources. A “pass” can be understood as including the application of both conductive and convective heat sources (e.g., for 3 seconds), with gaps between each pass (e.g., gaps of 2 seconds).

[0017] In some instances, the method may include applying heat through conductive and convective heat sources for 50 or fewer passes, 40 or fewer passes, 30 or fewer passes, 20 or fewer passes, 15 or fewer passes, or 10 or fewer passes.

[0018] In some examples, the method may include applying heat through conductive and convective heat sources for 10 or more passes, 15 or more passes, 20 or more passes, 30 or more passes, 40 or more passes, or 50 or more passes.

[0019] In some examples, the method may include applying heat through conductive and convective heat sources for 10 to 50 passes, 10 to 40 passes, 10 to 30 passes, 10 to 20 passes, 10 to 15 passes, 15 to 50 passes, 15 to 40 passes, 15 to 30 passes, 15 to 20 passes, 20 to 50 passes, 20 to 40 passes, 20 to 30 passes, 30 to 50 passes, 30 to 40 passes, or 40 to 50 passes.

[0020] In some embodiments, the conductive heat source may include a plurality of separating components for separating hair strands to be dried. The method may further include applying the separating components of the conductive heat source to the hair to separate the hair strands, thereby increasing the heating surface area of ​​the hair that can be directly heated by the conductive heat source.

[0021] In this way, heat can be transferred to the hair more effectively through conduction.

[0022] In some examples, one or more of the separating components may include a corresponding heating element. In other words, one or more of the separating components may be configured to apply heat to the hair through self-conduction.

[0023] Alternatively, in some examples, any heating element of the conductive heat source may be separate and distinct from one or more separating members. In other words, the separating members may be configured to separate hair strands to increase the heated surface area of ​​the hair that can contact the heating elements(s) of the conductive heat source.

[0024] Multiple separating components may include any suitable physical structure for separating hair bundles. For example, multiple separating components may include the teeth of a hairbrush arranged to separate hair bundles (e.g., a hairbrush including a heating element such that the hairbrush can be a heat conduction source). Additionally or alternatively, multiple separating components may include a pair of ironing plates of a hair straightener arranged to open and thereby separate hair bundles when the hair straightener is applied to the hair.

[0025] In some embodiments, applying heat by a convection heat source may include generating a heated airflow and applying the heated airflow to the hair to heat the hair by convection and to remove water from the hair by the airflow.

[0026] In some examples, the generation and application of heated airflow can be achieved using a hair dryer or other similar hair care tools.

[0027] In some embodiments, the generated heated airflow may have a temperature of 150°C or lower.

[0028] Alternatively, in some instances, the generated heated airflow may have a temperature of 180°C or lower, 120°C or lower, 100°C or lower, 80°C or lower, or 60°C or lower.

[0029] In some instances, the generated heated airflow may have a temperature of 60°C or higher, 80°C or higher, 100°C or higher, 120°C or higher, or 150°C or higher.

[0030] In some examples, the generated heated airflow may have a temperature between 60°C and 180°C, between 60°C and 150°C, between 60°C and 120°C, between 60°C and 100°C, between 60°C and 80°C, between 80°C and 180°C, between 80°C and 150°C, between 80°C and 120°C, between 80°C and 100°C, between 100°C and 180°C, between 100°C and 150°C, between 100°C and 120°C, between 120°C and 180°C, or between 120°C and 150°C.

[0031] In a specific example, the generated heated airflow can be applied at an initial temperature of 145°C.

[0032] In some embodiments, the generated heated gas flow may have a volumetric flow rate of 15 liters per second or lower.

[0033] Alternatively, in some examples, the generated heated gas flow may have a volumetric flow rate of 25 liters per second or less, 15 liters per second or less, 10 liters per second or less, or 5 liters per second or less.

[0034] In some examples, the resulting heated airflow may have a volumetric flow rate of 5 liters per second or more, 10 liters per second or more, 15 liters per second or more, 20 liters per second or more, or 25 liters per second or more.

[0035] In some examples, the generated heated gas flow can have a volumetric flow rate between 5 and 25 liters per second, between 5 and 20 liters per second, between 5 and 15 liters per second, between 5 and 10 liters per second, between 10 and 25 liters per second, between 10 and 20 liters per second, between 10 and 15 liters per second, between 15 and 25 liters per second, between 15 and 20 liters per second, or between 20 and 25 liters per second.

[0036] In a specific example, the generated heated airflow can have a volumetric flow rate of 13 liters per second.

[0037] The volumetric flow rate of the generated heated gas flow can be considered a measure indicating the heated gas flow.

[0038] In some embodiments, applying heat via a conductive heat source may include heating the heating element of the conductive heat source to a temperature of 150°C or lower.

[0039] Alternatively, in some instances, applying heat via a conductive heat source may include heating the heating element of the conductive heat source to a temperature of 180°C or lower, 120°C or lower, 100°C or lower, 80°C or lower, or 60°C or lower.

[0040] In some examples, applying heat via a conductive heat source may include heating the heating element of the conductive heat source to a temperature of 60°C or higher, 80°C or higher, 100°C or higher, 120°C or higher, or 150°C or higher.

[0041] In some instances, applying heat via a conductive heat source may include heating the heating element of the conductive heat source to a temperature between 60 and 180°C, between 60 and 150°C, between 60 and 120°C, between 60 and 100°C, between 60 and 80°C, between 80 and 180°C, between 80 and 150°C, between 80 and 120°C, between 80 and 100°C, between 100 and 180°C, between 100 and 150°C, between 100 and 120°C, between 120 and 180°C, or between 120 and 150°C.

[0042] In a particular example, applying heat via a conductive heat source may include heating the heating element of the conductive heat source to a temperature of 130°C.

[0043] In a specific example, the heating element can be configured to have an operating temperature range between 90°C and 140°C during use.

[0044] In some examples, the temperature of the heat applied by a conductive heat source may be lower than the temperature of the heat applied by a convective heat source.

[0045] In some examples, the temperature of the heat applied by a conductive heat source can be higher than the temperature of the heat applied by a convective heat source.

[0046] In some examples, the temperature of heat applied by a conductive heat source can be the same as the temperature of heat applied by a convective heat source.

[0047] In some embodiments, adjustments to one or more parameters may be performed automatically in response to monitoring.

[0048] In some examples, the monitoring of one or more characteristics associated with hair dryness can be performed, at least in part, by one or more sensors. Data collected by the one or more sensors can be transmitted to a processor for analysis. The processor may be located on the same device or tool as the device or tool that includes the one or more sensors. Alternatively, in some examples, the processor may be located on a different device (i.e., remotely) from the device or tool that includes the one or more sensors. In some examples, the one or more sensors may comprise multiple sensors distributed among multiple devices or tools.

[0049] In some examples, the processor can be configured to generate instructions for adjusting one or more parameters of the conductive heat source and / or convective heat source in response to analysis determining that any one (or combination) of one or more monitored attributes has met a criterion. In some examples, the criterion can be one of multiple criteria. One or more of the criteria (or the criterion where the criterion is the only criterion) can be a threshold that any one (or combination) of one or more monitored attributes may exceed or fall below.

[0050] In some examples, one or more criteria (or guidelines) may be predetermined. Additionally or alternatively, one or more criteria (or guidelines) may be determined in response to user input from the methods described herein.

[0051] For example, the method may include the processor instructing an automatic reduction in the temperature of heat applied by a conductive heat source and / or a convective heat source in response to a measured decrease in the hair’s moisture level below a predetermined threshold (e.g., below 20% moisture content percentage).

[0052] In some embodiments, adjusting one or more parameters of the conductive heat source and / or the convective heat source may include adjusting one or more of the following: the temperature of the heating element of the conductive heat source, the airflow velocity of the airflow generated by the convective heat source, and / or the temperature of the airflow generated by the convective heat source.

[0053] Additionally or alternatively, one or more adjustable parameters may include one or more of the following: in the case of a conductive heat source defined by a plurality of devices, the temperature of the heat applied by any one (or combination) of the devices; or in the case of a convective heat source defined by a plurality of devices, the temperature and / or airflow velocity of the corresponding airflow generated by any one (or combination) of the devices.

[0054] Additionally or alternatively, one or more adjustable parameters may include the spatial profile or shape of the generated airflow—for example, the shape of the cross-section of the airflow. The cross-section may be a transverse and / or longitudinal cross-section. In some examples, a dynamic attachment may be added to a convective heat source to modify the shape of the generated airflow (e.g., an air jet ejected from a convective heat source), thereby altering parameters of hair drying, such as the drying rate.

[0055] In some embodiments, adjusting one or more parameters of the conductive heat source and / or the convective heat source can be based on the measured humidity level of the hair.

[0056] In other words, one or more parameters of the conductive heat source and / or convective heat source can be adjusted in response to changes in the measured humidity level of the hair.

[0057] The measured moisture level of hair can be, for example, a measurement of the percentage of water in the hair's mass. This can be defined, for instance, by the following equation:

[0058]

[0059] in m hair It's about the quality of wet hair, and m dry It is the quality of the same hair when it is completely dry.

[0060] Alternatively, the humidity level of the hair can be measured using a humidity sensor configured to measure the relative humidity of the hair relative to the atmosphere at a preset temperature (e.g., 23°C). R H The humidity.

[0061] It is preferable to measure the hair's moisture level by referencing relative humidity, as this eliminates the need to weigh the hair during the application of the methods described herein.

[0062] In some examples, the moisture content of hair can correspond non-linearly to the humidity level measured based on relative humidity. For example, a moisture content percentage of 12.2% in terms of relative humidity can correspond to a humidity level of 50%, while a moisture content percentage of 18% in terms of relative humidity can correspond to a humidity level of 80%.

[0063] In addition to this, one or more other properties of the hair may be monitored, and parameters of the conductive and / or convective heat sources may be adjusted in response to changes in those other properties. One or more other properties may include hair temperature and / or hair color. For example, in some cases, darker hair may indicate that the hair is more moist.

[0064] In some embodiments, adjusting one or more parameters of the conductive heat source and / or the convective heat source may be based on one or more of the following: one or more user preferences for the conductive heat source and the convective heat source input by the user; contextual user data indicating one or more contextual attributes associated with the user; and / or contextual geographic location data indicating one or more contextual attributes associated with the user's geographic location.

[0065] One or more user preferences may include one or more preferences that indicate the desired hair effect, such as those described herein. For example, a user may indicate the desired appearance of the hair after applying the methods described herein. Appearance-related preferences may include preferences for one or more of the following: hair shine, smoothness, straightness, and / or apparent volume. Additionally or alternatively, a user may indicate the desired movement in the hair after applying the methods described herein. Preferences related to movement in the air may include preferences for the hair's static electricity and / or suppleness. Additionally or alternatively, a user may indicate the desired feel of the hair after applying the methods described herein. Preferences related to the feel of the hair may include preferences for one or more of the following: softness, the degree to which the hair is conditioned / wet, smoothness, density, and / or the degree to which the hair suffers from dry ends.

[0066] Contextual attributes associated with a user may include, for example, one or more demographic attributes of the user. For instance, contextual user data may indicate the user's age, racial demographics, and / or gender. Additionally or alternatively, contextual user data may include information indicating the amount of hair treatments the user has undergone (e.g., a history of hair dyeing, curling (e.g., with ammonium thioglycolate), straightening, bleaching, and / or heat treatment of the hair). Additionally or alternatively, contextual user data may include information indicating relevant medical conditions (e.g., hair loss) that may affect the user's hair condition.

[0067] Contextual attributes associated with a user's geographic location may include, for example, one or more attributes of the geographic location that could affect the user's hair condition. For instance, geographic location data may include (e.g., via weather reports, etc.) information indicating the relative humidity of the user's geographic location. Additionally or alternatively, geographic location data may include information indicating weather forecasts, including, for example, information relating to any one or more of precipitation, wind speed, humidity, and / or temperature at the user's geographic location. For example, a user's geographic location can be determined by collecting GPS data from a personal device owned by the user (e.g., a mobile phone, tablet, or similar device).

[0068] In some embodiments, the method may further include a processor collecting data indicating one or more of the following: measured hair humidity levels, one or more user preferences for conductive and convective heat sources input by the user, one or more contextual attributes associated with the user, and / or one or more contextual attributes associated with the user, and / or one or more contextual attributes associated with the user's geographic location. The method may further include analyzing the collected data; and generating a set of instructions to adjust one or more parameters of the conductive and / or convective heat sources.

[0069] In other words, the processor can be configured to generate instructions—in response to information derived from the received data—that help the user achieve the desired hair effect. Instructions can be generated in response to data indicating that any parameter analyzed by the processor meets one or more criteria. Any one or more of the one or more criteria can be predetermined. Additionally or alternatively, any one or more of the one or more criteria can be set by the user of the method described herein, for example, via a user interface. Additionally or alternatively, any one or more criteria can depend on a single parameter or on any combination of measurement parameters indicated in the received data. Additionally or alternatively, any one or more of the one or more criteria can be in the form of thresholds.

[0070] In some embodiments, the conductive heat source may include a hairbrush. The hairbrush may include a heating element for applying heat to the hair via conduction.

[0071] In some examples, one or more teeth of the hairbrush may include a corresponding heating element for heating the hair. Alternatively, the heating element of the hairbrush may be mounted in the paddle-like part of the hairbrush, separate from the teeth.

[0072] In some examples, the hairbrush may include a humidity sensor mounted thereon, which is configured to measure the humidity level of the hair.

[0073] In some instances, the temperature of the heating element can be manually adjusted by the user. Alternatively, the heating element can be automatically adjusted via a microcontroller mounted on or within the hairbrush. The microcontroller can be communicatively linked to a processor on another device (e.g., a user's personal device) and can be configured to receive instructions from the processor to adjust the temperature of the heating element. Alternatively, the microcontroller can be configured to transmit instructions (directly or indirectly) to a processor and / or microcontroller mounted on other devices to adjust one or more operating parameters of those other devices.

[0074] In some embodiments, the convection heat source may include a hair dryer. The hair dryer may be configured to generate a heated airflow for applying heat to the hair via convection.

[0075] In some examples, the hair dryer may be a Dyson® Supersonic® hair dryer.

[0076] In some examples, the hair dryer may include a humidity sensor mounted thereon, which is configured to measure the humidity level of the hair.

[0077] In some examples, the temperature and / or speed of the airflow generated by the hair dryer can be manually adjusted by the user. Additionally or alternatively, the temperature and / or speed of the generated airflow can be automatically adjusted via a microcontroller mounted on or within the hair dryer. The microcontroller may be communicatively linked to a processor on another device (e.g., a user's personal device) and can be configured to receive instructions from the processor to adjust the temperature and / or speed of the generated airflow. Additionally or alternatively, the microcontroller may be configured to transmit instructions (directly or indirectly) to a processor and / or microcontroller mounted on other devices to adjust one or more operating parameters of those other devices.

[0078] In some embodiments, the conductive heat source and / or convective heat source may further include means for styling the hair. This means may include a heat source for applying heat to the hair via conduction and / or convection.

[0079] For example, the heat source may include a hair straightener (e.g., a Dyson® Corrale® straightener) and / or a curling iron.

[0080] Additionally or alternatively, a device configured to apply both conductive and convective heat may embody at least a portion of each of a conductive and a convective heat source. For example, such a device could be a Dyson® AirWrap® device. Additionally or alternatively, such a device could be configured to straighten hair by applying heated airflow together with heated plates. Such a device could be a Dyson® AirStrait® device.

[0081] A system for drying hair is also provided. The system includes: a conductive heat source configured to apply heat to the hair via conduction; and a convective heat source configured to apply heat to the hair via convection. The system is configured to perform the methods described herein.

[0082] As described above, a conductive hair source can be any device or tool configured to transfer heat to the hair via a conduction process. Similarly, a convection hair source can be any device or tool constructed to transfer heat to the hair via a convection process.

[0083] As described above, in some examples, the conductive heat source may include multiple separating components for separating strands of hair to be dried.

[0084] In some examples, one or more of the separating components may include a corresponding heating element. In other words, one or more of the separating components may be configured to apply heat to the hair through self-conduction.

[0085] Alternatively, in some examples, any heating element of the conductive heat source may be separate and distinct from one or more separating members. In other words, the separating members may be configured to separate hair strands to increase the heated surface area of ​​the hair that can contact the heating elements(s) of the conductive heat source.

[0086] Multiple separating components may include any suitable physical structure for separating hair bundles. For example, multiple separating components may include the teeth or bristles of a hairbrush arranged to separate hair bundles (e.g., a hairbrush including a heating element such that the hairbrush can be a heat conduction source). Additionally or alternatively, multiple separating components may include a pair of ironing plates of a hair straightener arranged to open and thereby separate hair bundles when the hair straightener is applied to the hair.

[0087] As described above, in some examples, the conductive heat source may include a hairbrush. The hairbrush may include a heating element for applying heat to the hair via conduction.

[0088] In some examples, one or more teeth of the hairbrush may include a corresponding heating element for heating the hair. Alternatively, the heating element of the hairbrush may be mounted in the paddle-like part of the hairbrush, separate from the teeth.

[0089] In some instances, the temperature of the heating element can be manually adjusted by the user. Alternatively, the heating element can be automatically adjusted via a microcontroller, which may be mounted on or within the hairbrush. The microcontroller may be communicatively linked to a processor on another device (e.g., a user's personal device) and can be configured to receive instructions from the processor to adjust the temperature of the heating element. Alternatively, the microcontroller may be configured to transmit instructions (directly or indirectly) to a processor and / or microcontroller mounted on other devices to adjust one or more operating parameters of those other devices.

[0090] As described above, in some examples, the convection heat source may include a hair dryer. The hair dryer can be configured to generate heated airflow to apply heat to the hair via convection.

[0091] In some examples, the hair dryer may be a Dyson® Supersonic® hair dryer.

[0092] In some examples, the temperature and / or speed of the airflow generated by the hair dryer can be manually adjusted by the user. Additionally or alternatively, the temperature and / or speed of the generated airflow can be automatically adjusted via a microcontroller mounted on or within the hair dryer. The microcontroller may be communicatively linked to a processor on another device (e.g., a user's personal device) and can be configured to receive instructions from the processor to adjust the temperature and / or speed of the generated airflow. Additionally or alternatively, the microcontroller may be configured to transmit instructions (directly or indirectly) to a processor and / or microcontroller mounted on other devices to adjust one or more operating parameters of those other devices.

[0093] As described above, the conductive heat source and / or convective heat source may also include a device for styling the hair. This device may include a heat source for applying heat to the hair via conduction and / or convection.

[0094] For example, the heat source may include a hair straightener (e.g., a Dyson® Corrale® straightener) and / or a curling iron.

[0095] Additionally or alternatively, a device configured to apply both conductive and convective heat may embody at least a portion of each of the conductive and convective heat sources. For example, such a device could be a Dyson® AirWrap® device. Additionally or alternatively, such a device could be configured to straighten hair by applying a heated airflow together with a heated plate. Such a device could be a Dyson® AirStrait® device.

[0096] In some embodiments, the system may further include one or more humidity sensors configured to measure the humidity level of the hair. At least one of the one or more humidity sensors may be mounted on a conductive heat source or a convective heat source.

[0097] For example, when the heat source includes a hairbrush, the hairbrush may include a humidity sensor mounted thereon, which is configured to measure the humidity level of the hair.

[0098] Similarly, when the convective heat source includes a hair dryer, the hair dryer may include a humidity sensor mounted thereon, which is configured to measure the humidity level of the hair.

[0099] In some examples, at least one of the one or more humidity sensors may be a hyperspectral imaging photodiode. The signal from such a diode may require calibration and / or preprocessing and / or processing against a relevant calibration curve. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the one or more humidity sensors may be configured to measure the capacitance of humid air whose moisture content increases due to proximity to wet hair. The signal captured by this capacitance measurement may also require calibration and / or preprocessing or processing against a relevant calibration curve. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the one or more humidity sensors may be a contact capacitance sensor, which can operate as a touch sensor configured to directly measure capacitance and thus measure the humidity level of the hair. As mentioned above, such a sensor may require calibration similar to other configurations of humidity sensors.

[0100] In some embodiments, the system may further include a processor configured to generate instructions for controlling the operation of conductive heat sources and / or convective heat sources.

[0101] In some embodiments, the processor may be installed in a personal device associated with a user of the system. Instructions may be generated based on one or more inputs from the user to the user interface of the personal device.

[0102] In some embodiments, the processor may be configured to implement an application on a personal device to receive input from a user and / or provide the user with instructions to use a conductive heat source and / or a convective heat source.

[0103] In some examples, more than one device in the system may include processors mounted thereon. In this case, one or more of the processors may be communicatively linked to other processors in the plurality of processors. In such an example, a processor may be designated as the “master” processor, which is configured to generate instructions to be executed by processors on other devices. Thus, processors on other devices may conversely be designated as “slave” processors, configured to receive and execute instructions from the master processor.

[0104] A system for drying hair is provided. The system includes: one or more hair styling tools configured to dry and / or style hair; one or more humidity sensors configured to measure the humidity level of the hair; and a processor configured to adjust one or more parameters of the one or more hair styling tools based on the measured humidity level of the hair.

[0105] Any system described herein, including the systems described above, may be adapted for use by a user to perform any of the methods described herein.

[0106] Hair care tools can be understood to refer to any personal item that a person can use to dry and / or style their hair. Hair care tools may include any one or more of the following: hairbrushes, hair dryers such as Dyson® Supersonic®, hair straighteners such as Dyson® Corrale® straighteners (equivalent to straightening irons), curling irons (equivalent to curling irons), or any other suitable device such as Dyson® AirWrap® devices or Dyson® AirStrait® devices.

[0107] Drying and styling hair can be considered as two separate processes performed independently of each other. Alternatively, drying and styling hair can be considered as two phases of a single hair care process, wherein – in the first phase – wet hair is dried, and – in the second phase – the dried hair is styled. The drying phase may involve some styling of the hair, but can be primarily dedicated to drying wet hair. Similarly, the styling phase may involve some drying of the hair, but can be primarily dedicated to styling (at least partially) dried hair.

[0108] As described above, the measured humidity level, as measured by one or more humidity sensors, can be a measurement of the percentage of water in the hair mass. Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the humidity sensors can be configured to measure the relative humidity of the hair relative to the atmosphere at a preset temperature (e.g., 23°C). R H The humidity.

[0109] Additionally or alternatively, the system may also include one or more other sensors configured to measure one or more other characteristics of the hair, respectively. As mentioned above, one or more of these other characteristics may include, for example, any one or more of the following: hair temperature and / or hair color.

[0110] In some examples, one or more humidity sensors may be mounted on any one or more of one or more hair care tools. Additionally or alternatively, one or more humidity sensors may be mounted on their own separate device(s) configured to measure the humidity level of the hair, either alone or primarily.

[0111] In some examples, one or more of the hair care tools may be electric hair care tools. Electric hair care tools can be understood as hair care tools that require power to operate all functions. Power can be provided by batteries or by connecting to an AC power source via leads and a socket.

[0112] In some examples, the processor may be installed in a personal user device (e.g., a phone or tablet) that forms part of the system. Alternatively, the processor may be installed on or within one of one or more hair care tools. In such examples, the processor may optionally be embodied as a microcontroller.

[0113] In some examples, more than one device in the system may include processors mounted thereon. In this case, one or more of the processors may be communicatively linked to other processors in the plurality of processors. In such an example, a processor may be designated as the “master” processor, which is configured to generate instructions to be executed by processors on other devices. Thus, processors on other devices may conversely be designated as “slave” processors, configured to receive and execute instructions from the master processor.

[0114] In some examples, adjusting one or more parameters of one or more hair care tools based on measured hair humidity levels can be understood as including adjusting one or more parameters of one or more hair care tools in response to the measured humidity level meeting a criterion. The criterion to be met can be one of one or more standards. In some examples, one or more of the one or more standards can be a threshold, at which the measured humidity level may be higher or lower than the threshold.

[0115] In some embodiments, one or more hair care tools may include a hairbrush that includes a heating element. The hairbrush may be configured to apply heat to the hair via conduction.

[0116] In some examples, one or more teeth of the hairbrush may include a corresponding heating element for heating the hair. Alternatively, the heating element of the hairbrush may be mounted in the paddle-like part of the hairbrush, separate from the teeth.

[0117] In some examples, the hairbrush may include a humidity sensor mounted thereon, which is configured to measure the humidity level of the hair.

[0118] In some embodiments, the heating element may be configured to heat to a temperature of up to 150°C when in use.

[0119] In other words, the hairbrush can operate with the heating element heated to temperatures up to 150°C.

[0120] Alternatively, in some instances, the heating element may be configured to heat to a temperature of 180°C or lower, 120°C or lower, 100°C or lower, 80°C or lower, or 60°C or lower when in use.

[0121] In some examples, the heating element can be configured to heat to temperatures of 60°C or higher, 80°C or higher, 100°C or higher, 120°C or higher, or 150°C or higher when in use.

[0122] In some examples, the heating element can be configured to heat to a temperature between 60 and 180°C, 60 and 150°C, 60 and 120°C, 60 and 100°C, 60 and 80°C, 80 and 180°C, 80 and 150°C, 80 and 120°C, 80 and 100°C, 100 and 180°C, 100 and 150°C, 100 and 120°C, 120 and 180°C, or 120 and 150°C when in use.

[0123] In a specific example, the heating element can be configured to heat to a temperature of 130°C when in use.

[0124] In a specific example, the heating element can be configured to have an operating temperature range between 90°C and 140°C during use.

[0125] In some embodiments, the processor may be configured to adjust the temperature of the heating element based on the measured humidity level of the hair.

[0126] In other words, the processor can be configured to indicate a temperature change in the heating element in response to a measured humidity level meeting a criterion. As mentioned above, the criterion can be one or more standards, and any one of the one or more standards can be a corresponding threshold.

[0127] In some instances, the temperature of the heating element can be manually adjusted by the user. Alternatively, the heating element can be automatically adjusted via a microcontroller mounted on or within the hairbrush. The microcontroller can be the processor described above. Alternatively, the microcontroller can be communicatively linked to a processor mounted on another device (e.g., a user's personal device) and can be configured to receive instructions from the processor to adjust the temperature of the heating element. Alternatively, the microcontroller can be configured to transmit instructions (directly or indirectly) to a processor and / or microcontroller mounted on other devices to adjust one or more operating parameters of those other devices.

[0128] In some embodiments, one or more hair care tools may include a hair dryer configured to generate heated airflow to apply heat to the hair via convection.

[0129] In some examples, the hair dryer can be further configured to produce an airflow that is not heated, or even a “cold” airflow, as described above.

[0130] In some examples, the hair dryer may be a Dyson® Supersonic® hair dryer.

[0131] In some examples, the hair dryer may include a humidity sensor mounted thereon, which is configured to measure the humidity level of the hair.

[0132] In some examples, one or more hair care tools may include a device configured to apply both conductive and convective heat to the hair. For example, such a device may be an AirWrap® device.

[0133] In some embodiments, the generated heated airflow may have a temperature of up to 150°C and / or a volumetric flow rate of up to 15 liters per second.

[0134] Alternatively, in some instances, the generated heated airflow may have a temperature of 180°C or lower, 120°C or lower, 100°C or lower, 80°C or lower, or 60°C or lower.

[0135] In some instances, the generated heated airflow may have a temperature of 60°C or higher, 80°C or higher, 100°C or higher, 120°C or higher, or 150°C or higher.

[0136] In some examples, the generated heated airflow may have a temperature between 60°C and 180°C, between 60°C and 150°C, between 60°C and 120°C, between 60°C and 100°C, between 60°C and 80°C, between 80°C and 180°C, between 80°C and 150°C, between 80°C and 120°C, between 80°C and 100°C, between 100°C and 180°C, between 100°C and 150°C, between 100°C and 120°C, between 120°C and 180°C, or between 120°C and 150°C.

[0137] In a specific example, the generated heated airflow can be applied at an initial temperature of 145°C.

[0138] Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, the resulting heated gas flow may have a volumetric flow rate of 25 liters per second or less, 15 liters per second or less, 10 liters per second or less, or 5 liters per second or less.

[0139] In some examples, the resulting heated airflow may have a volumetric flow rate of 5 liters per second or more, 10 liters per second or more, 15 liters per second or more, 20 liters per second or more, or 25 liters per second or more.

[0140] In some examples, the generated heated gas flow can have a volumetric flow rate between 5 and 25 liters per second, between 5 and 20 liters per second, between 5 and 15 liters per second, between 5 and 10 liters per second, between 10 and 25 liters per second, between 10 and 20 liters per second, between 10 and 15 liters per second, between 15 and 25 liters per second, between 15 and 20 liters per second, or between 20 and 25 liters per second.

[0141] In a specific example, the generated heated airflow can have a volumetric flow rate of 13 liters per second.

[0142] In some embodiments, the processor may be configured to adjust the temperature and / or airflow rate of the heated airflow generated by the hair dryer based on the measured humidity level of the hair.

[0143] As mentioned above, regulating the airflow velocity can be understood as equivalent to regulating the airflow volumetric flow rate.

[0144] The processor can be configured to indicate changes in the temperature and / or velocity of the generated heated airflow in response to a measured humidity level meeting a criterion. As mentioned above, the criterion can be one or more standards, and any one of the one or more standards can be a corresponding threshold.

[0145] In some examples, the airflow temperature and / or airflow speed generated by the hair dryer can be manually adjusted by the user. Alternatively, the temperature and / or speed of the generated airflow can be automatically adjusted via a microcontroller (which may be the processor described above) mounted on or within the hair dryer. Alternatively, the microcontroller may be communicatively linked to the processor, such as when mounted on another device (e.g., a user's personal device), and can be configured to receive instructions from the processor to adjust the temperature and / or speed of the generated airflow. Alternatively, the microcontroller may be configured to transmit instructions (directly or indirectly) to a processor and / or microcontroller mounted on other devices to adjust one or more operating parameters of those other devices.

[0146] In some embodiments, the processor may also be configured to adjust the one or more parameters based on one or more of the following: one or more user preferences input by a user of the system; contextual user data indicating one or more contextual attributes associated with a user; and / or contextual geographic location data indicating one or more contextual attributes associated with a user's geographic location.

[0147] One or more user preferences may include one or more preferences that indicate the desired hair effect, such as those described herein. For example, a user may indicate the desired appearance of the hair after applying the methods described herein. Appearance-related preferences may include preferences for one or more of the following: hair shine, smoothness, straightness, and / or apparent volume. Additionally or alternatively, a user may indicate the desired movement in the hair after applying the methods described herein. Preferences related to movement in the air may include preferences for the hair's static electricity and / or suppleness. In addition or alternatively, a user may indicate the desired feel of the hair after applying the methods described herein. Preferences related to the feel of the hair may include preferences for one or more of the following: softness, the degree to which the hair is conditioned / wet, smoothness, density, and / or the degree to which the hair suffers from dry ends.

[0148] Contextual attributes associated with a user may include, for example, one or more demographic attributes of the user. For instance, contextual user data may indicate the user's age, racial demographics, and / or gender. Additionally or alternatively, contextual user data may include information indicating the amount of hair treatments the user has undergone (e.g., a history of hair dyeing, curling (e.g., with ammonium thioglycolate), straightening, bleaching, and / or heat treatment of the hair). Additionally or alternatively, contextual user data may include information indicating relevant medical conditions (e.g., hair loss) that may affect the user's hair condition.

[0149] Contextual attributes associated with a user's geographic location may include, for example, one or more attributes of the geographic location that could affect the user's hair condition. For instance, geographic location data may include (e.g., via weather reports, etc.) information indicating the relative humidity of the user's geographic location. Additionally or alternatively, geographic location data may include information indicating weather forecasts, including, for example, information relating to any one or more of precipitation, wind speed, humidity, and / or temperature at the user's geographic location. For example, a user's geographic location can be determined by collecting GPS data from a personal device owned by the user (e.g., a mobile phone, tablet, or similar device).

[0150] The processor can functionally process one or more user preferences and / or contextual attributes related to the user and / or the user's geographic location as constraints, thereby imposing constraints on the operating range of one or more parameters of one or more hair care tools to ensure that the user of the system described herein achieves their desired hair effect.

[0151] In some embodiments, the processor may be installed in one of one or more hair care tools.

[0152] As described above, in some examples, more than one device in the system may include a processor mounted thereon. In this case, one or more of the processors may be communicatively linked to other processors in the plurality of processors. In such an example, a processor may be designated as the “master” processor, which is configured to generate instructions to be executed by processors on other devices. Thus, processors on other devices may conversely be designated as “slave” processors, configured to receive and execute instructions from the master processor.

[0153] In some embodiments, the processor may be installed in a user's personal device.

[0154] In some examples, the personal device could be a telephone, a tablet, or other similar device belonging to the user.

[0155] In some embodiments, one or more hair styling tools may include one or more means for styling hair. Each of the one or more means for styling hair may include a heat source for applying heat to the hair by conduction and / or convection.

[0156] For example, one or more hair care tools may include a straightener (e.g., a Dyson® Corrale® straightener), and / or a curling iron, and / or other devices such as an AirWrap® device.

[0157] A hairbrush is also provided, comprising: a heating element for drying hair by applying heat to the hair through conduction; one or more humidity sensors configured to measure the humidity level of the hair; and a processor configured to adjust the temperature of the heating element based on the measured humidity level.

[0158] In some examples, one or more teeth of the hairbrush may include a corresponding heating element for heating the hair. Alternatively, the heating element of the hairbrush may be mounted in the paddle-like part of the hairbrush, separate from the teeth.

[0159] In some embodiments, the processor may be configured to receive instructions from an external device and adjust the temperature of the heating element based on the received instructions.

[0160] In some embodiments, the processor may be configured to adjust the temperature of the heating element in response to a measured humidity level rising above or falling below a predetermined threshold.

[0161] For example, the processor can be configured to adjust the temperature of the heating element from a first temperature to a second temperature, optionally higher, in response to a drop in the measured hair moisture level below a predetermined moisture content percentage (e.g., 20%) or relative humidity level. In some examples, the predetermined moisture content may be 18% or lower (corresponding to a typical moisture content percentage considered just dry enough for the average user), 14% or lower (corresponding to a typical moisture content percentage considered truly dry for the average user), or 8% or lower (corresponding to a typical moisture content percentage that provides beneficial effects to the user, such as a significant improvement in styling results).

[0162] In some embodiments, the heating element may be configured to heat to a temperature of up to 150°C when in use.

[0163] In other words, the hairbrush can operate with the heating element heated to temperatures up to 150°C.

[0164] Alternatively, in some instances, the heating element may be configured to heat to a temperature of 180°C or lower, 120°C or lower, 100°C or lower, 80°C or lower, or 60°C or lower when in use.

[0165] In some instances, the heating element can be configured to heat to temperatures of 60°C or higher, 80°C or higher, 100°C or higher, 120°C or higher, or 150°C or higher.

[0166] In some instances, the heating element may be configured to heat to temperatures between 60 and 180°C, between 60 and 150°C, between 60 and 120°C, between 60 and 100°C, between 60 and 80°C, between 80 and 180°C, between 80 and 150°C, between 80 and 120°C, between 80 and 100°C, between 100 and 180°C, between 100 and 150°C, between 100 and 120°C, between 120 and 180°C, or between 120 and 150°C.

[0167] In a specific example, the heating element can be configured to heat to a temperature of 130°C during use.

[0168] In a specific example, the heating element can be configured to have an operating temperature range between 90°C and 140°C during use.

[0169] A hair dryer is also provided, comprising an airflow generator configured to generate a heated airflow for drying hair by applying heat to the hair; one or more humidity sensors configured to measure the humidity level of the hair; and a processor configured to adjust one or more parameters of the airflow generator based on the measured humidity level.

[0170] In some examples, the hair dryer can be further configured to produce an airflow that is not heated, or even a “cold” airflow, as described above.

[0171] In some examples, the hair dryer may be a Dyson® Supersonic® hair dryer.

[0172] In some examples, the hair dryer may include a humidity sensor mounted thereon, which is configured to measure the humidity level of the hair.

[0173] In some embodiments, one or more parameters may include one or more of the following: the temperature of the generated heated airflow and / or the airflow velocity of the generated heated airflow.

[0174] In some embodiments, the processor may be configured to receive instructions from an external device and adjust one or more parameters of the airflow generator based on the received instructions.

[0175] In some embodiments, the processor may be configured to adjust one or more parameters of the airflow generator in response to a measured humidity level rising above or falling below a predetermined threshold.

[0176] For example, the processor can be configured to adjust the temperature of the generated heated airflow from a first temperature to a second temperature, optionally lower, in response to a measured hair moisture level being below a predetermined percentage of moisture content (e.g., 20%) or relative humidity level.

[0177] Additionally or alternatively, the processor may be configured to adjust the airflow rate of the generated heated airflow from a first airflow rate to an optionally higher second airflow rate in response to a measured hair moisture level being below a predetermined moisture content percentage (e.g., 20%) or relative humidity level.

[0178] In some examples, the predetermined moisture content may be 18% or less (corresponding to a typical moisture content percentage that is considered just dry enough for the average user), 14% or less (corresponding to a typical moisture content percentage that is considered truly dry for the average user), or 8% or less (corresponding to a typical moisture content percentage that provides beneficial effects to the user, such as a significant improvement in setting results).

[0179] In some embodiments, the generated heated airflow may have a temperature of up to 150°C and / or a volumetric flow rate of up to 15 liters per second.

[0180] Alternatively, in some instances, the generated heated airflow may have a temperature of 180°C or lower, 120°C or lower, 100°C or lower, 80°C or lower, or 60°C or lower.

[0181] In some instances, the generated heated airflow may have a temperature of 60°C or higher, 80°C or higher, 100°C or higher, 120°C or higher, or 150°C or higher.

[0182] In some examples, the generated heated airflow may have a temperature between 60°C and 180°C, between 60°C and 150°C, between 60°C and 120°C, between 60°C and 100°C, between 60°C and 80°C, between 80°C and 180°C, between 80°C and 150°C, between 80°C and 120°C, between 80°C and 100°C, between 100°C and 180°C, between 100°C and 150°C, between 100°C and 120°C, between 120°C and 180°C, or between 120°C and 150°C.

[0183] In a specific example, the generated heated airflow can be applied at an initial temperature of 145°C.

[0184] Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, the resulting heated gas flow may have a volumetric flow rate of 25 liters per second or less, 15 liters per second or less, 10 liters per second or less, or 5 liters per second or less.

[0185] In some examples, the resulting heated airflow may have a volumetric flow rate of 5 liters per second or more, 10 liters per second or more, 15 liters per second or more, 20 liters per second or more, or 25 liters per second or more.

[0186] In some examples, the generated heated gas flow can have a volumetric flow rate between 5 and 25 liters per second, between 5 and 20 liters per second, between 5 and 15 liters per second, between 5 and 10 liters per second, between 10 and 25 liters per second, between 10 and 20 liters per second, between 10 and 15 liters per second, between 15 and 25 liters per second, between 15 and 20 liters per second, or between 20 and 25 liters per second.

[0187] In a specific example, the generated heated airflow can have a volumetric flow rate of 13 liters per second.

[0188] A computer-implemented method for operating a hair drying system is provided. The hair drying system includes one or more hair styling tools and a user device communicatively connected to at least one of the hair styling tools. The method includes providing a user interface on the user device for receiving user input indicating a desired hair condition to be achieved by using the hair drying system; and adjusting one or more parameters of the one or more hair styling tools based on the user input to achieve the desired hair condition.

[0189] In some examples, users may indicate the desired appearance of their hair after using a hair care system, for example, by implementing the methods described herein. Appearance-related preferences may include preferences for one or more of the following: hair shine, smoothness, straightness, and / or apparent volume. Additionally or alternatively, users may indicate the desired movement of their hair after using a hair care system, for example, by implementing the methods described herein. Preferences related to movement in the air may include preferences for the hair's static electricity and / or suppleness. Additionally or alternatively, users may indicate the desired feel of their hair after using a hair care system, for example, by implementing the methods described herein. Preferences related to the feel of the hair may include preferences for one or more of the following: softness, the degree to which the hair feels conditioned / wet, smoothness, density, and / or the degree to which the hair suffers from dry ends.

[0190] Hair care tools can be understood to refer to any personal item that a person can use to dry and / or style their hair. Hair care tools may include any one or more of the following: hairbrushes, hair dryers such as the Dyson® Supersonic®, hair straighteners such as the Dyson® Corrale® straightener (equivalently referred to as straighteners), curling irons (equivalently referred to as curling irons), or any other suitable device such as the Dyson® AirWrap® device or the Dyson® AirStrait® device.

[0191] The user device can be, for example, a personal user device, such as a telephone or tablet computer, or another suitable device. In some examples, the user device may include a display adapted to display a graphical user interface, with which the user can interact to perform the methods described herein.

[0192] A user interface can be provided by installing an application on the user's device. For example, an application can be installed via communication with a server from which a copy of the application can be downloaded. For example, the server can be accessed by scanning a barcode, QR code, or similar object with the user's device. Additionally or alternatively, the server can be accessed via secure password-based login, two-factor authentication, or any other suitable security protocol.

[0193] Adjusting one or more parameters of one or more hair care tools can be understood as being performed in response to user input. In some examples, user input can be used to impose one or more constraints on the range of operation of one or more of the parameters.

[0194] In some embodiments, one or more hair care tools may include a conductive heat source. The conductive heat source may include a heating element configured to apply heat to the hair via conduction.

[0195] Applying heat via a conductive heat source may involve physical contact between the heating device and the hair, such that heat generated by the heating device is transferred to the hair through conduction. Positioning the heating device in physical contact with the hair may include placing the heating element of the heating device in direct physical contact with the hair. Alternatively, the heating element may be shielded to prevent direct physical contact with the hair, and in this case, a shielding layer may be placed between the heating element and the hair to reduce the risk of burning the hair. The shielding layer may be an element of the heating device that is in direct physical contact with the hair, such that heat generated by the heating element is conducted to the hair through the shielding layer. In some examples, the shielding layer may be a wraparound layer that completely or partially surrounds the heating element. In other examples, the shielding layer may not be a layer that completely surrounds the heating element, but rather any suitable physical structure that forms a barrier between the heating element and the hair when the heating device is in contact with the hair (i.e., applied to the hair).

[0196] In some embodiments, adjusting one or more parameters of one or more hair care tools may include adjusting the temperature of the heating element.

[0197] In some embodiments, the heat source may be a hairbrush.

[0198] In some examples, one or more teeth of the hairbrush may include a corresponding heating element for heating the hair. Alternatively, the heating element of the hairbrush may be mounted in the paddle-like part of the hairbrush, separate from the teeth.

[0199] In some examples, the hairbrush may include a humidity sensor mounted thereon, which is configured to measure the humidity level of the hair.

[0200] In some embodiments, one or more hair care tools may include a convection heat source. The convection heat source may include an airflow generator configured to generate heated airflow to apply heat to the hair via convection.

[0201] Applying heat through a convective heat source can be understood as applying convective heat to the hair. Applying heat through a convective heat source can include directing airflow towards the hair, so that the heat carried in the airflow is transferred to the hair. In some examples, the airflow can lift water away from the hair, entraining the water as water vapor within the airflow and carrying the water (in the form of water vapor) away from the hair, thereby drying the hair. In some examples, the airflow can be heated, i.e., heated to a temperature above room temperature. Alternatively, the airflow may not be heated; it can even be a "cold" airflow. A cold airflow can be understood as an airflow that has cooled relative to room temperature, i.e., the temperature of the airflow can be below room temperature.

[0202] In some examples, applying heat to a convection heat source may include generating an airflow, and then directing the generated airflow toward the hair as described above.

[0203] In some embodiments, adjusting one or more parameters of one or more hair care tools may include adjusting the temperature and / or speed of the generated airflow.

[0204] In some embodiments, the convection heat source may be a hair dryer.

[0205] In some examples, the hair dryer can be further configured to produce an airflow that is not heated, or even a “cold” airflow, as described above.

[0206] In some examples, the hair dryer may be a Dyson® Supersonic® hair dryer.

[0207] In some examples, the hair dryer may include a humidity sensor mounted thereon, which is configured to measure the humidity level of the hair.

[0208] In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method may further include adjusting one or more parameters of one or more hair care tools based on one or more of the following: contextual user data indicating one or more contextual attributes associated with a user; and / or contextual geolocation data indicating one or more contextual attributes associated with a user's geolocation.

[0209] Contextual attributes associated with a user may include, for example, one or more demographic attributes of the user. For instance, contextual user data may indicate the user's age, racial demographics, and / or gender. Additionally or alternatively, contextual user data may include information indicating the amount of hair treatments the user has undergone (e.g., a history of hair dyeing, curling (e.g., with ammonium thioglycolate), straightening, bleaching, and / or heat treatment of the hair). Additionally or alternatively, contextual user data may include information indicating relevant medical conditions (e.g., hair loss) that may affect the user's hair condition.

[0210] Contextual attributes associated with a user's geographic location may include, for example, one or more attributes of the geographic location that could affect the user's hair condition. For instance, geographic location data may include (e.g., via weather reports, etc.) information indicating the relative humidity of the user's geographic location. Additionally or alternatively, geographic location data may include information indicating weather forecasts, including, for example, information relating to any one or more of precipitation, wind speed, humidity, and / or temperature at the user's geographic location. For example, a user's geographic location can be determined by collecting GPS data from a personal device owned by the user (e.g., a mobile phone, tablet, or similar device).

[0211] Similar to user input, the processor can analyze contextual user data and / or contextual geographic location data to determine one or more constraints on the operating range of parameters of one or more hair care tools to ensure that the user operates the hair drying system to achieve the desired hair effect.

[0212] In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method may further include receiving data indicating the moisture level of the hair being measured.

[0213] As described above, the measured humidity level can correspond to the measured moisture content of the hair, and / or the relative humidity of the hair relative to the atmosphere measured at a preset temperature (e.g., 23°C).

[0214] In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method may further include adjusting one or more parameters of one or more hair care tools based on the received data.

[0215] In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method may further include adjusting one or more parameters of one or more hair care tools in response to predetermined criteria.

[0216] In some embodiments, the predetermined standard may be an indication that the measured hair humidity level in the received data has risen above or fallen below a predetermined threshold.

[0217] In some embodiments, the predetermined standard may be an indication that the user has used the hair drying system to achieve the desired hair condition for a predetermined period of time.

[0218] In some embodiments, the one or more hair care tools may include at least one device for styling hair.

[0219] For example, one or more hair care tools may include a straightener (such as the Dyson® Corrale® straightener) and / or a curling iron, and / or other devices such as the Dyson® AirWrap® device or the Dyson® AirStrait® device.

[0220] In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method may further include providing a user with instructions via a user interface on how to use one or more hair care tools to achieve the desired hair condition.

[0221] In some examples, instructions may be presented to the user in text form, showing how to operate one or more of one or more hair care tools to achieve the desired hair condition.

[0222] Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, instructions may be presented as a series of images (still images, video images, or a combination of still and video images) showing the user how to operate one or more of one or more hair care tools to achieve the desired hair condition.

[0223] In this way, users can learn how to operate one or more hair care tools to achieve the desired hair condition, thus obtaining that condition more reliably and effectively in the future.

[0224] In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method may further include: providing a list of candidate hair care tools available to the user via a user interface; and receiving selection input via the user interface, the selection input indicating one or more hair care tools from a plurality of candidate hair care tools for which the user requested the instruction. The provided instructions on how to use one or more hair care tools to achieve a desired hair condition may be instructions on how to use one or more selected hair care tools to achieve a desired hair condition.

[0225] In this way, users can choose to receive only instructions from one or more selected tools that they deem necessary. This simplifies the presentation of instructions, avoiding the display of redundant or useless information to the user while they are operating the hair drying system.

[0226] In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method may further include updating instructions in response to adjustments to one or more parameters.

[0227] In this way, the generated and presented instructions can be adaptive because they can be adjusted in real time in response to changes in one or more operating parameters of one or more hair care tools.

[0228] In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method may further include evaluating the user's performance and updating instructions in response to the evaluated user performance.

[0229] In some examples, one or more of the hair care tools may include motion sensors mounted on or within them. Each motion sensor may be configured to measure the movement of the corresponding hair care tool, indicating how the user operates the tool.

[0230] In some examples, the user device may include a recording device (e.g., a camera or video camera) for monitoring the user's actions with one or more hair care tools. The user device may include a processor configured to analyze the user's actions with one or more hair care tools to determine whether the user is correctly following instructions.

[0231] In some examples, update instructions can facilitate the delivery of correction instructions, which instruct users on how to modify their operation of one or more hair care tools to correctly follow the originally provided instructions.

[0232] In some examples, the method may include updating instructions in response to determining that the user has operated one or more hair care tools for a predetermined period of time. For example, the overall operation of a hair drying system may be described as multiple stages. In some examples, there may be two stages: a drying stage and a styling stage, as described above. In such examples, the method may include updating instructions to the user in response to determining that a stage (e.g., the drying stage) has been completed and a subsequent stage (e.g., the styling stage) has begun.

[0233] In some examples, transitions between consecutive phases may be based on one or more of the following: a predetermined time period, which is the duration of the current phase; input from the user via a user interface indicating that the user wants to proceed to the next phase; and / or determining, by analyzing received data, that the condition of the hair meets one or more criteria for proceeding to the next phase.

[0234] In some examples, the method may also include providing positive feedback through the user interface to reinforce the user's correct operation of one or more hair care tools if the instructions are followed correctly.

[0235] A computer program including logic is also provided, which, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to perform the computer-implemented method described herein.

[0236] A computer-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform the computer-implemented method described herein.

[0237] Computer program products and / or computer-readable media may be embodied in any suitable tangible or intangible form, including, for example, CD-ROMs, software mounted on a processor, application software stored in a server, or any other suitable format for storage.

[0238] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, any examples, embodiments, or aspects of the described features may be combined in suitable combinations, unless expressly prohibited or such combinations are obviously impossible or incompatible. Attached Figure Description

[0239] Figure 1 A hair care system for drying and / or styling hair, as described herein, is shown.

[0240] Figure 2 A heated hairbrush as described herein is shown.

[0241] Figure 3 A hair dryer as described in this article is shown.

[0242] Figure 4 A method for drying hair as described herein is shown.

[0243] Figure 5 Data indicating the improved efficiency of drying hair by implementing the methods described herein are presented.

[0244] Figure 6a An exemplary display of a user interface prompting users to communicatively connect their user devices to one or more hair care tools is shown.

[0245] Figure 6b An exemplary display of a user interface prompting the user to select the desired result is shown.

[0246] Figure 6c An exemplary display of the user interface is shown, prompting the user to select one or more hair care tools and to receive instructions on how to operate the selected tools to achieve the desired hair effect.

[0247] Figure 6d An exemplary display of a user interface that provides instructions to a user on how to operate one or more selected hair care tools is shown.

[0248] Figure 6e An exemplary display of a user interface that provides positive feedback to the user is shown.

[0249] Figure 6f An exemplary display of a user interface is shown, which provides the user with corrective instructions on how to better operate one or more selected hair care tools.

[0250] Figure 6g An exemplary display of the user interface is shown, indicating that the drying and / or styling of the hair has been completed.

[0251] Figure 7 A method for operating a hair drying system as described herein is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0252] Figure 1 A hair care system 100 for drying and / or styling hair, as described herein, is shown.

[0253] The system 100 includes multiple hair care tools, including those configured to apply both conductive and convective heat, such as the AirWrap® 110, a straightener 112 (e.g., the Dyson® Corrale® straightener), a heated hairbrush 200, a hair dryer 300 (e.g., the Dyson® Supersonic® hair dryer), a server 400, and a personal user device 500 (such as a mobile phone or tablet).

[0254] The system 100 may include any combination of the aforementioned hair care tools, or may exclude any one of those hair care tools and / or Figure 1 One or more other hair care tools not shown.

[0255] The system 100 also includes one or more humidity sensors configured to measure the humidity level of hair being dried and / or styled using the system 100. The one or more humidity sensors may be additional devices. Figure 1 (not shown) part and / or may be installed on or in any hair care tool of system 100.

[0256] Each of the hair care tools in system 100 is communicatively linked to user device 500. User device 500 is further communicatively linked to server 400. User device 500 (or another device in system 100) includes a processor configured to receive data from one or more humidity sensors indicating the measured humidity level of the hair. The processor is also configured to receive user preferences via a user interface of user device 500, receive contextual user data via a user interface, or retrieve contextual user data from the memory cache of user device 500 and / or server 400, and receive contextual geolocation data from server 400.

[0257] The processor of user device 500, or a processor in any other device installed in system 100, is configured to analyze received data and adjust one or more operating parameters of the hair care tools of system 100 in response to the received data to achieve the hair effect desired by the user. For example, the processor may be configured to generate and / or send instructions to hairbrush 200 to adjust the temperature of the heating element of hairbrush 200. Additionally or alternatively, the processor may be configured to generate instructions and / or transmit instructions to hair dryer 300 to adjust the temperature and / or airflow rate of the heated airflow generated by hair dryer 300.

[0258] Figure 2 A heated hairbrush 200 as described herein is shown.

[0259] The hairbrush 200 includes multiple teeth 202, a heating element 204, a humidity sensor 206, and a control module 208.

[0260] When the hairbrush 200 is applied to the hair, the multiple teeth 202 are arranged to separate the hair strands in order to increase the surface area of ​​the hair that can be placed in contact with the heating element 204. This improves the efficiency with which the heating element 204 conducts heat to the hair.

[0261] Humidity sensor 206 is configured to measure the humidity level of the hair in the application hairbrush 200.

[0262] The temperature of the heating element 204 can be adjusted by the operation of the control module 208. The control module 208 can be configured to adjust the temperature of the heating element 204 in response to the humidity level measured by the humidity sensor 206 meeting one or more preset criteria. Additionally or alternatively, the control module 208 can be configured to communicate with a processor on another device (e.g., user device 500) to transmit data indicating the humidity level measured by the humidity sensor 206 and to receive instructions that, when executed, cause the temperature of the heating element 204 to be adjusted to achieve the desired hair effect for the user.

[0263] Figure 3 A hair dryer 300 as described herein is shown.

[0264] The hair dryer 300 includes an airflow generator 302, a humidity sensor 304, and a control module 306.

[0265] The airflow generator 302 is configured to generate a heated airflow to be applied to the hair to apply convective heat to the hair, thereby drying and / or styling the hair.

[0266] Humidity sensor 304 is configured to measure the humidity level of hair in the application of hair dryer 300.

[0267] The temperature and / or airflow rate of the generated heated airflow can be adjusted through the operation of the control module 306. The control module 306 can be configured to adjust the temperature and / or airflow rate of the generated heated airflow in response to a humidity level measured by the humidity sensor 304 meeting one or more preset criteria. Additionally or alternatively, the control module 306 can be configured to communicate with a processor on another device (e.g., user device 500) to transmit data indicating the humidity level measured by the humidity sensor 304 and to receive instructions, when executed, that cause the temperature and / or airflow rate of the generated heated airflow to be adjusted to achieve the user's desired hair effect.

[0268] Figure 4 A method for drying hair as described herein is shown.

[0269] The method includes, in operation 602, applying heat to the hair via a conductive heat source. For example, operation 602 may include applying a heated hairbrush 200 to the hair, wherein a heating element 204 is activated and heated to a heating temperature.

[0270] Simultaneously with operation 602, the method includes applying heat to the hair via a convective heat source through operation 604. For example, operation 604 may include applying a hair dryer 300 to apply a heated airflow generated by an airflow generator 302 to the hair.

[0271] The method also includes collecting data associated with hair drying and / or styling via operation 606. The collected data may include humidity data indicating the hair's moisture level (e.g., collected by humidity sensors 206, 304 of the hairbrush 200 and hair dryer 300). The collected data may additionally or alternatively include user preferences input to user device 500, indicating the user's desired hair effect. The collected data may additionally or alternatively include contextual user data indicating one or more attributes of the user (e.g., demographic attributes), and / or contextual geographic location data indicating one or more attributes of the user's geographic location (e.g., humidity and / or weather forecast).

[0272] The method also includes analyzing the collected data via operation 608 to determine whether one or more parameters of the hair styling tools of system 100 need to be adjusted to achieve the user's desired hair effect. For example, the collected data may be analyzed to determine operational constraints on one or more operating parameters of one or more hair styling tools (e.g., the temperature of heating element 204, and / or the temperature and / or airflow rate of the generated heated airflow), and / or to determine one or more criteria (e.g., thresholds) depicted between multiple stages of the drying and / or styling process, and / or to determine whether any one or more of these criteria have been met, as described above. For example, operation 608 may involve determining that the hair's moisture content has dropped below a predetermined threshold (e.g., a 20% moisture content threshold).

[0273] The method also includes generating instructions via operation 610 for adjusting one or more parameters of one or more heat sources of system 100. These instructions are for adjusting one or more parameters (e.g., the temperature of heating element 204 and / or the temperature and / or airflow velocity of the generated heated airflow) in response to determining, based on analysis of collected data, that the hair moisture level meets one or more of the aforementioned criteria. The instructions may instruct the adjustment of one or more parameters to ensure that the operation of system 100 achieves the hair effect desired by the user. For example, operation 610 may include generating instructions, upon execution, to reduce the temperature of heating element 204 from a first temperature to a second lower temperature in response to determining that the hair moisture content has dropped below a predetermined threshold. Additionally or alternatively, operation 610 may include generating instructions, upon execution, to reduce the temperature of the heated airflow generated by airflow generator 302 from a first temperature to a lower second temperature, or to increase the airflow velocity from a first volumetric flow rate to a higher second volumetric flow rate in response to determining that the hair moisture content has dropped below a predetermined threshold.

[0274] The method also includes adjusting one or more parameters of the conductive heat source(s) in response to the generated instructions via operation 612. Operation 612 may, for example, include adjusting the temperature of the heating element 204 in response to executing at least a portion of the generated instructions.

[0275] The method further includes adjusting one or more parameters of the (multiple) convective heat sources in response to the generated instructions via operation 614. Operations 612 and 614 may be independent of each other. Operation 614 may, for example, include adjusting the temperature and / or velocity of the heated airflow generated by the airflow generator 302 in response to executing at least a portion of the generated instructions.

[0276] Operations 606 to 614, or any combination thereof, can be repeated iteratively until the entire method of drying and / or styling the hair is complete. In other words, one or more parameters of the conductive and / or convective heat source can be dynamically adjusted in response to changes, alterations, and / or updates in the collected and analyzed data.

[0277] Figure 5 Data indicating the improved efficiency of drying hair by implementing the methods described herein are presented.

[0278] from Figure 5 It can be seen that simultaneously applying heated hairbrush 200 and hair dryer 300 to the hair (i.e., applying heat simultaneously through conductive and convective heat sources) significantly improves the speed and efficiency at which the hair's moisture content can be reduced. In other words, applying conductive and convective heat sources simultaneously helps to: (i) achieve more desirable hair results, (ii) achieve the desired hair results faster, and (iii) achieve the desired hair results more effectively.

[0279] Figure 6a An exemplary display of a user interface 502 is shown, prompting users to communicatively connect their user devices to one or more hair care tools.

[0280] The content displayed on the user interface 502 can be determined by executing software (e.g., in the form of an application installed on the user device 500).

[0281] During initialization, the user interface 502 may display a prompt 504 to the user to identify a set of hair care tools that can be used to communicate with the user device 500.

[0282] In response to the detection of one or more devices available for communication connectivity (e.g., via near-field communication, radio frequency communication, or any suitable communication channel such as Bluetooth, Bluetooth®, or similar), user interface 502 presents the user with a list 506 of devices available for communication connectivity. The user can then interact with interface 520 to select which of the detected hair care tools to connect to.

[0283] Figure 6b An exemplary display of a user interface 502 that prompts the user to select the desired hair effect is shown.

[0284] Before or after establishing communication with one or more hair care tools (such as...) Figure 6aAs shown, user interface 502 displays a set of adjustable user preferences 508 via the display of user device 500. Users can freely adjust this set of adjustable user preferences 508 to input their desired hair effect using one or more selected hair care tools connected to (or to be connected to) user device 500. Adjustable preferences can include any form of adjustable mechanism, such as sliders, dials, text string input values, or any other suitable input mechanism. Users can adjust desired hair effect parameters via adjustable user preferences 508 according to any one or more of the desired hair effect's appearance, movement, and / or feel. Preferences related to the desired hair effect's appearance can include any one or more of shine, smoothness, straightness, and / or volume. Preferences related to the desired hair effect's movement can include the desired hair effect's static and / or suppleness. Preferences related to the desired hair effect's feel can include any one or more of softness, the feeling of conditioning the hair, smoothness, density, and / or the feeling of the presence / absence of dry ends.

[0285] In some cases, there may be more adjustable parameters than the number that can be adapted to the display of the user device 500 at once, so the user interface may appropriately include scrolling or page-turning functions 510.

[0286] Figure 6c An exemplary display of user interface 502 is shown, which prompts the user to select one or more hair care tools 512, and they wish to receive instructions on how to operate the selected hair care tools to achieve the desired hair effect.

[0287] In response to the selection of hair care tools connected to (or to be connected to) the user device 500, the user interface 502 is configured to present the user with a set of hair care tools 512 (preferably only those connected to the user device), the operation instructions for which are available. If there are more options to be displayed than can be clearly displayed on the screen of the user device 500 at once, a scrolling or page-turning function 510 may be included.

[0288] Users can interact, for example, via the touchscreen of user device 500, to select one or more hair care tools from a list of candidate hair care tools 512, and for these one or more hair care tools, they need instructions on how to operate them to achieve the desired hair effect.

[0289] Figure 6d An exemplary display of user interface 502 is shown, which provides the user with instructions 514 on how to operate one or more selected hair care tools.

[0290] User interface 502 can display instructions 514 in any suitable format—such as text, still images, video images, or any combination of suitable formats—via the display of user device 500 to convey to the user how to operate the selected hair care tools(s) to achieve the desired hair effect.

[0291] Figure 6e An exemplary display of a user interface 502 that provides positive feedback to the user is shown.

[0292] User interface 502 can provide positive feedback in various forms 516, 518. Positive feedback can be audio feedback, tactile feedback, visual feedback, or any suitable combination of feedback, depending on the situation. Positive feedback can be designed to reinforce the user's positive behavior by conveying to the user that they have correctly followed the presented instructions 514 required to achieve their desired hair effect.

[0293] Figure 6f An exemplary display of user interface 502 is shown, which provides the user with correction instructions 520 on how to better operate one or more selected hair care tools.

[0294] User interface 502 can display correction instructions 520 in any suitable format via the display of user device 500—such as text, still images, video images, or any combination of suitable formats—to convey to the user correction instructions on how to better operate the selected hair care tools(s) to achieve the desired hair effect.

[0295] Figure 6g An exemplary display of user interface 502 is shown, indicating that the drying and / or styling of the hair has been completed.

[0296] The user interface 502 can display a confirmation 522 via the display of the user device 500 that the process of drying and / or styling the hair using the system 100 has been completed. If necessary, the user interface 502 can also display a prompt 524 to the user via the display to start a new hair drying / styling process.

[0297] Figure 7 A method for operating a hair drying system as described herein is shown.

[0298] The method includes, in operation 702, receiving user input indicating the desired hair condition (i.e., the desired hair effect after drying and / or styling the hair using system 100). This can be achieved via, for example... Figure 6b The user interface 502 shown receives user input.

[0299] The method also includes, in operation 704, receiving data indicating the measured humidity level of the hair. Operation 704 may, for example, involve receiving data collected by humidity sensors 206, 304 of the hairbrush 200 and hair dryer 300 and / or any other hair care tool or other device of system 100.

[0300] The method also includes, in operation 706, adjusting one or more parameters of one or more hair care tools (e.g., adjusting the temperature of heating element 204, and / or the temperature and / or airflow rate of heated airflow generated by airflow generator 302) in response to determining by analyzing the received humidity data that the humidity of the hair (e.g., in terms of the water content of the hair) has met one or more preset criteria (e.g., the water content of the hair has dropped below 20%).

[0301] The method also includes, in operation 708, independent of operations 704 and 706, providing the user with a set or list of candidate hair care tools for which instructions are available. This set or list of candidate hair care tools may be provided by user interface 502, such as... Figure 6c As shown.

[0302] The method also includes, in operation 710, receiving instructions from the user regarding the selection of a hair care tool. Figure 6c In the configuration shown, this selection can be received via user interaction with user interface 502. The user can select one or more hair care tools that require instructions on their operation to achieve the desired hair effect.

[0303] The method also includes, in operation 712, providing the user with instructions on how to use / operate one or more selected hair care tools to achieve the user's desired hair effect. Instructions 514 can be provided by a user interface by displaying text, still images, and / or video instructions on the user device's display, such as... Figure 6d As shown.

[0304] The method also includes, in operation 714, updating the instructions presented to the user in response to the adjustment of one or more parameters of one or more hair styling tools in operation 706. For example, if—in response to determining that the hair's moisture (e.g., in terms of water content) has reached the necessary level to transition from the drying stage to the styling stage—one or more parameters can be adjusted (in operation 706) to better suit styling the hair rather than drying it. Thus, the user interface 502 can update the instructions 514 provided to the user to instruct them to transition from performing techniques for blow-drying hair to performing techniques for styling hair.

[0305] The method also includes evaluating the user's performance in operation 716, independent of operation 714. In other words, the method also includes evaluating the extent to which the user complies with (or obeys / adheres to) the instructions 514 provided in operation 712. As described above, the evaluation can be performed by analyzing motion data collected by one or more motion sensors mounted on or in one or more hair care tools of system 100, and / or by analyzing video data captured by a camera (e.g., a camera of user device 500).

[0306] The method also includes, in operation 718, updating the instructions provided to the user in response to the results of the evaluation analysis in operation 716. In other words, operation 718 includes providing the user with correction instructions 520 via user interface 502 to instruct them on how to better operate one or more selected hair care tools to achieve the desired hair effect.

[0307] The features disclosed in the foregoing description, in the following claims, and in the accompanying drawings, whether expressed in a particular form, in general terms, or as means for performing the disclosed function, or as methods or processes for obtaining the desired or disclosed results, may appropriately be implemented individually or in any combination of these features in order to realize the claimed invention in any of a variety of different forms.

[0308] Although the present invention has been described in conjunction with the above examples, those skilled in the art will understand that many equivalent modifications and variations can be made to the above disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0309] Throughout this specification, including the following claims, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the words “comprising” and “including” and variations thereof shall be construed as implying the inclusion of the said integer or group of integers, but not excluding any other integer or group of integers.

[0310] Throughout this specification, including the subsequent claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” also include plural indicators, unless the context clearly and explicitly specifies otherwise. Where ranges and / or parameter values ​​are expressed, these values ​​and ranges should be understood as illustrative examples, not limiting ones. Furthermore, references to any range or parameter value should be understood to include variations of those values ​​within, for example, a reasonable error range of ±10%.

Claims

1. A system for drying hair, the system comprising: One or more hair care tools, the one or more hair care tools being configured to dry and / or style hair; One or more humidity sensors, the one or more humidity sensors being configured to measure the humidity level of hair; and A processor configured to adjust one or more parameters of the one or more hair care tools based on the measured humidity level of the hair.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more hair care tools include a hairbrush, the hairbrush including a heating element, the hairbrush being configured to apply heat to the hair via conduction.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein, The heating element is configured to heat to a temperature of up to 150°C during use.

4. The system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The processor is configured to adjust the temperature of the heating element based on the measured humidity level of the hair.

5. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The one or more hair care tools include a hair dryer configured to generate heated airflow to apply heat to the hair via convection.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein, The resulting heated airflow has a temperature of up to 150°C and / or a volumetric flow rate of up to 15 liters per second.

7. The system according to claim 5 or 6, wherein, The processor is configured to adjust the temperature and / or airflow speed of the heated airflow generated by the hair dryer based on the measured humidity level of the hair.

8. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The processor is also configured to adjust the one or more parameters based on one or more of the following: One or more user preferences input by the user of the system; Contextual user data indicating one or more contextual attributes associated with the user; and / or Contextual geolocation data indicating one or more contextual attributes associated with the user's geographic location.

9. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The processor is installed in one of the one or more hair care tools.

10. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The processor is installed in the user's personal device.

11. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The one or more hair styling tools include one or more devices for styling hair, each of the one or more devices for styling hair including a heat source for applying heat to the hair by conduction and / or convection.

12. A hairbrush, the hairbrush comprising: Heating elements are used to dry hair by applying heat to it through conduction. One or more humidity sensors, the one or more humidity sensors being configured to measure the humidity level of the hair; and A processor configured to adjust the temperature of the heating element based on a measured humidity level.

13. The hairbrush according to claim 12, wherein, The processor is configured to receive instructions from an external device and adjust the temperature of the heating element based on the received instructions.

14. The hairbrush according to claim 12 or 13, wherein, The processor is configured to adjust the temperature of the heating element in response to a measured humidity level rising above or falling below a predetermined threshold.

15. The hairbrush according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein, The heating element is configured to heat to a temperature of up to 150°C during use.

16. A hair dryer, comprising: An airflow generator is configured to generate a heated airflow for drying hair by applying heat to the hair. One or more humidity sensors, the one or more humidity sensors being configured to measure the humidity level of the hair; and A processor configured to adjust one or more parameters of the airflow generator based on a measured humidity level.

17. The hair dryer according to claim 16, wherein, The one or more parameters include one or more of the following: the temperature of the generated heating gas flow and / or the gas flow rate of the generated heating gas flow.

18. The hair dryer according to claim 16 or 17, wherein, The processor is configured to receive instructions from an external device and adjust one or more parameters of the airflow generator based on the received instructions.

19. The hair dryer according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein, The processor is configured to adjust one or more parameters of the airflow generator in response to a measured humidity level rising above or falling below a predetermined threshold.

20. The hair dryer according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein, The resulting heated airflow has a temperature of up to 150°C and / or a volumetric flow rate of up to 15 liters per second.

Images