Blower system

Abstract

A blower system, an accessory, an accessory kit, and a blower. A system for a hair dryer is provided. The blowing system may include a plurality of different types of accessories and a blower having an output configured to supply air. The output end comprises a mounting assembly; the mounting assembly has a retention mechanism configured to engage each of the plurality of different types of accessories to retain a selected one of the different types of accessories on the blower, an alignment mechanism configured to align one of the plurality of accessories in a predetermined rotational orientation relative to the output, and an accessory detection assembly configured to move to one of a plurality of predetermined structures based on a type of accessory mounted to the blower. The blower may also include a controller configured to control the supply of air through the output according to a predetermined structural configuration of the accessory detection assembly.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of an application with an application date of August 31, 2021, application number of 202122077726.3, and utility model name of "Hair Dryer System, Accessories and Accessory Kits", application number of 202221788986.X, and utility model name of "Accessories, Accessory Kits and Hair Dryers". Technical Field

[0002] Apparatus, systems and methods are provided for detecting the type of accessory mounted to a hair dryer and for operating the hair dryer based on the detected type of accessory. Background Art

[0003] Hair dryers are used to provide an air flow that a user can use to dry wet hair. In many cases, hair dryers also heat and / or ionize the air before it exits the hair dryer. Hair dryers typically include an air outlet having an opening of fixed size where heated air is exhausted from the device. The speed, direction, and type of air flow exiting the air outlet can be changed by attaching removable accessories to the hair dryer. Because each accessory affects the air flow exiting the air outlet depending on its configuration, it can be challenging to maintain the desired operating parameters of the hair dryer when switching between different accessories.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for improved apparatus, systems, and methods for detecting the type of accessory mounted to a hair dryer and for controlling operational settings of the hair dryer based on the detected accessory type. Utility Model Content

[0005] Provided are a hair dryer, a hair dryer accessory, a hair dryer kit and a method of using the same. In one embodiment, a hair dryer system is provided, the hair dryer system comprising a plurality of different types of accessories and a hair dryer having an output end configured to supply air. The output end may include a mounting assembly having a retaining mechanism configured to selectively engage each of the different types of accessories to retain a selected one of the different types of accessories on the hair dryer. The hair dryer may also include an alignment mechanism configured to align at least one of the different types of accessories relative to the output end in at least one predetermined rotational orientation. The hair dryer may also include an accessory detection assembly configured to move to one of a plurality of predetermined structural configurations based on the type of accessory mounted to the hair dryer. The hair dryer may also include a controller configured to control the supply of air through the output end according to the predetermined structural configuration of the accessory detection assembly.

[0006] In one embodiment, at least one of the different types of accessories includes an alignment mechanism, the alignment mechanism of the accessory being configured to interact with a rotational alignment mechanism on the hair dryer to align the at least one accessory in a predetermined rotational orientation relative to the output end. The hair dryer alignment mechanism may be in the form of at least one surface feature formed on a central hub of the hair dryer mounting assembly, and the accessory alignment mechanism includes at least one complementary surface feature formed on an inner hoop of at least one of the different types of accessories. In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one predetermined rotational orientation may be only one predetermined rotational orientation, only two predetermined rotational orientations, or a plurality of rotational orientations.

[0007] In another embodiment, each of the different types of accessories may include an actuation mechanism configured to actuate the accessory detection assembly to position the accessory detection assembly in one of the predetermined structural configurations. The accessory detection assembly may include, for example, a first push rod and a second push rod, each of which has a predetermined position for each predetermined structural configuration of the hair dryer mounting assembly. Each of the different types of accessories may include an actuation mechanism, such as: an out-of-plane hoop that holds the first push rod and the second push rod in an initial position, a hoop having a protrusion configured to actuate only the first push rod, a hoop having a protrusion configured to actuate only the second push rod, and a hoop having a protrusion configured to actuate each of the first push rod and the second push rod.

[0008] In another embodiment, each of the different types of accessories may include a mounting assembly having a retention slot configured to cooperatively engage a retention mechanism on the hair dryer. The retention mechanism on the mounting assembly of the hair dryer may be in the form of at least one biased pin configured to engage the retention slot.

[0009] In other aspects, movement of the mounting assembly between the predetermined structural configurations is configured to control an on / off position of a switch having a unique combination of on / off positions corresponding to a type of accessory mounted to the mounting assembly.

[0010] The hair dryer may include other features, such as a memory in the housing storing a plurality of predetermined stored settings, each corresponding to one of the different types of accessories, each including operating parameters for the air supply. The hair dryer may also include a processor in the housing communicatively coupled to the mounting assembly and the memory, such that the processor is configured to determine a type of accessory based on a structural configuration of the hair dryer mounting assembly and to operate the air supply based on the predetermined stored settings for the determined accessory type.

[0011] In another embodiment, an accessory for use with a hair dryer is provided. The accessory may include a housing having a first end with an air inlet and a second end with an air outlet, and a hoop assembly disposed at the first end and selectively engageable with the hair dryer. The hoop assembly may include an outer hoop configured to cause a mounting assembly on the hair dryer to move to a first unique structural configuration corresponding to a first operational setting of the hair dryer when the accessory is mounted to the hair dryer, and an inner hoop configured to align the accessory relative to the hair dryer in at least one predetermined rotational orientation when the accessory is mounted to the hair dryer.

[0012] In one embodiment, the outer hoop may include a plurality of first protrusions configured to interact with a plurality of switches in the hair dryer. The inner hoop may include a plurality of tabs configured to align with complementary surface features on the hair dryer when the accessory is mounted to the hair dryer, thereby controlling the rotational orientation of the accessory relative to the hair dryer.

[0013] In another embodiment, an accessory kit for use with a hair dryer is provided, the accessory kit including a first accessory having a first end with an air inlet and a second end with an air outlet. The first end may include a first mounting assembly having: a first retaining groove configured to cooperate with an engagement mechanism on the hair dryer for engaging the first accessory to the hair dryer; a first outer hoop having a plurality of first protrusions formed thereon and configured to actuate an accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer; and a first inner hoop having a first alignment mechanism configured to align the first accessory relative to the hair dryer in at least one predetermined rotational orientation. The kit may also include a second accessory having a first end with an air inlet and a second end with an air outlet. The first end may include a second mounting assembly having: a second retaining groove configured to cooperate with an engagement mechanism on the hair dryer for engaging the second accessory to the hair dryer; a second outer hoop having a flat surface configured to enable the second outer hoop to maintain the accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer in an initial position; and a second inner hoop configured to cooperate with the hair dryer so that the second accessory can rotate freely relative to the hair dryer.

[0014] In another embodiment, the kit may include a third accessory having a first end with an air inlet and a second end with an air outlet. The first end may include a third mounting assembly having: a third retaining slot configured to cooperate with an engagement mechanism on the hair dryer for mating the third accessory to the hair dryer; a third outer hoop having a third plurality of protrusions formed thereon and configured to actuate an accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer, the third plurality of protrusions being different from the first plurality of protrusions; and a third inner hoop having a third alignment mechanism configured to align the third accessory in at least one predetermined rotational orientation relative to the hair dryer.

[0015] In other aspects, a hair dryer is provided having a handheld housing having an air inlet and an air outlet configured to supply heated air. A mounting assembly is positioned adjacent to the outlet end and is configured to cooperate with different types of accessories. The mounting assembly can be configured to align the mounted accessory in a predetermined rotational orientation relative to the housing, and the mounting assembly can be moved between a plurality of predetermined positions based on the type of accessory mounted. The hair dryer can also include a motor disposed within the housing and configured to supply air through the air outlet based on a plurality of predetermined stored settings corresponding to the type of accessory mounted to the mounting assembly.

[0016] In one embodiment, the mounting assembly includes an inner hoop at the air outlet, the inner hoop having at least one surface feature configured to interact with a corresponding surface feature on an accessory to align the accessory in a predetermined rotational orientation relative to the hair dryer. The at least one surface feature on the inner hoop can be configured to align an actuation mechanism on the accessory with a plurality of push rods. The mounting assembly can also include a plurality of push rods that can be moved between the plurality of predetermined positions based on the type of accessory installed.

[0017] The hair dryer may also include other features, such as: a memory located in the housing, the memory storing the plurality of predetermined storage settings; and a processor configured to automatically operate the hair dryer in one of the plurality of predetermined storage settings based on a predetermined position of the mounting assembly. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The present disclosure will be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0019] Figure 1 is a side perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a blower system having a blower with a concentrator attachment secured thereto;

[0020] Figure 2A The accessories have been removed Figure 1 A front perspective view of a blower system;

[0021] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A A partially exploded front perspective view of a hair dryer;

[0022] Figure 3 yes Figure 2A A front view of a hair dryer;

[0023] Figure 4 Part of the casing was removed. Figure 2A A side perspective view of a hair dryer showing the accessory detection assembly in a first structural configuration;

[0024] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A side perspective view of the hair dryer showing the accessory detection assembly moved to a second structural configuration;

[0025] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 a side perspective view of the hair dryer showing the accessory detection assembly moved to a third structural configuration;

[0026] Figure 7 yes Figure 4a side perspective view of the hair dryer showing the accessory detection assembly moved to a fourth structural configuration;

[0027] Fig. 8A yes Figure 1 A front perspective view of a concentrator attachment of a blower system;

[0028] Figure 8B yes Fig. 8A A partially exploded front perspective view of a concentrator attachment;

[0029] Fig. 9A is with Figure 1 a rear perspective view of one embodiment of a diffuser attachment for use with a hair dryer;

[0030] Fig. 9B yes Fig. 9A A partially exploded rear perspective view of the diffuser attachment;

[0031] Fig. 10A is with Figure 1 A rear perspective view of one embodiment of a brush attachment for use with a hair dryer;

[0032] Fig. 10B yes Fig. 10A A partially exploded rear perspective view of a brush attachment;

[0033] Fig.11A is with Figure 1 A rear perspective view of a portion of one embodiment of an air curling iron attachment for use with a hair dryer;

[0034] Fig. 11B yes Fig.11A A partially exploded front perspective view of an air curling iron attachment; and

[0035] Fig.12 Draws Figure 1 How to operate the hair dryer system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Certain exemplary embodiments will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of structure, function, manufacture and use of the methods and devices disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the devices and methods specifically described herein and shown in the accompanying drawings are non-restrictive exemplary embodiments, and the scope of the present disclosure is limited only by the claims. The features shown or described in conjunction with an exemplary embodiment may be combined with the features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0037] In addition, in the present disclosure, the same-name components of the embodiments generally have similar features, so in a particular embodiment, it is not necessary to elaborate on every feature of each same-name component. In addition, to the extent that linear or circular dimensions are used in the description of the disclosed systems, devices, and methods, such dimensions are not intended to limit the types of shapes that can be used in conjunction with such systems, devices, and methods. Those skilled in the art will recognize that equivalents to such linear and circular dimensions can be easily determined for any geometric shape. The size and shape of the systems and devices and their components can depend at least on the anatomical structure of the object in which the systems and devices will be used, the size and shape of the components with which the systems and devices will be used, and the methods and procedures for using the systems and devices. In addition, the terms "approximately" and "substantially" are defined as ranges based on manufacturing variations and variations in temperature and other parameters.

[0038] Provided are devices, systems and methods for detecting the type of accessory mounted to a hair dryer and for automatically controlling the operational settings of the hair dryer based on the detected type of accessory. In general, a hair dryer is provided as follows: it has an output end configured to supply air and a mounting assembly configured to match one of a plurality of accessories. Each accessory can have a mounting assembly configured to interact with a mounting assembly on the hair dryer so that the hair dryer can detect the type of accessory mounted thereon. The hair dryer can include a controller configured to modify the operational settings based on the detected type of accessory. In an exemplary embodiment, the mounting assembly on each accessory includes a feature that interacts with an accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer so that the accessory detection assembly adopts a predetermined structural configuration. The predetermined structural configuration can enable the hair dryer to identify the type of accessory mounted thereon. In certain exemplary embodiments, the accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer includes a movable push rod that interacts with an outer hoop on the mounting assembly of each accessory. Each accessory can be configured to interact with the accessory to position the movable push rod in one of several unique configurations. For example, if two push rods are provided, the attachment can move both push rods, only the first push rod, only the second push rod, or none of the push rods, thereby providing four unique structural configurations for the push rods. The push rods can be connected to a switch that moves between an open position (on position) and a closed position (off position). The type of attachment can be determined based on the position of each switch, so that the operating settings of the motor and / or heater can be changed for the attachment of a specific type installed to the hair dryer. In addition, in order to enable at least some of the attachments to rotate while still enabling the attachment to interact with the attachment detection assembly to indicate the type of the attachment, the mounting assembly on the hair dryer and / or the attachment can include a feature for controlling the alignment of the attachment relative to the hair dryer in at least one predetermined rotational direction.

[0039] Figure 1An exemplary embodiment of a hair dryer system 100 including a hair dryer 102 and an embodiment of an accessory 200 in the form of a concentrator are illustrated. As shown, the hair dryer 102 generally includes an elongated housing 104 having a handle 106 extending from the housing 104 in a generally downward direction (transverse to the housing 104). Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the hair dryer 102 can have a variety of configurations and that the features disclosed herein for detecting the type of accessory mated with the hair dryer can be used with any hair dryer known in the art.

[0040] In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 104 is in the form of a generally hollow body configured to accommodate a plurality of components for operating a hair dryer, such as a motor, a heater, a processor, and a memory. The illustrated housing 104 has a circular cross section, but other cross-sectional shapes may also be used. In order to allow the motor and the heater to supply air, the housing 104 includes an input 104a and an output 104b configured at opposite ends of the housing 104. The input 104a may allow air to be sucked into the housing 104, and the output 104b may supply air after passing through the motor and / or the heater. As discussed in detail below, the attachment 200 may be detachably matched with the hair dryer 102 at the output 104b.

[0041] Because the hair drying process may require directional control of the hair dryer, a handle 106 is included to allow handheld use of the hair dryer system 100. The handle 106 can extend from the housing 104 in a fixed orientation or can be pivotally mounted to the housing 104. The handle 106 can include a power button 108 that can be configured to start the hair dryer 102. Although not shown, the handle 106 can include other control mechanisms for controlling the speed and / or heating settings on the hair dryer. In addition, a power cord 110 can extend from the handle 106 and can be electrically connected to electrical components in the hair dryer 102, such as a motor, a heater, a processor, and a memory.

[0042] As mentioned above, various accessories may be used on hair dryers in order to affect the output air from the hair dryer for specific purposes. Figure 1The accessory 200 shown is in the form of a concentrator that is removably mated to the output end 104b of the hair dryer 102 so as to concentrate the air flowing out of the hair dryer 102. The accessory 200 shown includes a housing 202 having an air inlet 202a and an air outlet 202b arranged at opposite ends of the housing 202. Similar to the hair dryer housing 104, the accessory housing 202 is in the form of an elongated hollow body that allows air to pass through. The air inlet 202a can have a shape that is complementary to the output end 104b of the hair dryer housing 104 so as to achieve a tight seal between the accessory 200 and the hair dryer 102 when mated. The diameter of the air outlet 202b can be reduced to be generally an elongated oval to concentrate the air. Although Figure 1 The accessory shown is a concentrator type accessory, but those skilled in the art will appreciate that various types of accessories may be removably engaged to the hair dryer 102. Many additional accessory types are described in detail below.

[0043] To removably mount accessories to the hair dryer 102 , the hair dryer 102 may include a mounting assembly 112 . Figures 2A to 3 The hair dryer 102 is illustrated with the accessory 200 removed from the hair dryer 102. The illustrated mounting assembly 112 is disposed within the housing 104 at the output end 104b. The illustrated mounting assembly 112 generally includes a retaining mechanism for securely retaining the accessory in mating engagement with the hair dryer, an accessory detection assembly for detecting the type of accessory mounted to the hair dryer, and an alignment mechanism for aligning the accessory relative to the hair dryer in at least one predetermined rotational orientation.

[0044] A variety of techniques can be used to securely retain the accessory in mating engagement with the hair dryer. In one exemplary embodiment, as shown, the retaining mechanism includes a plurality of forced retaining pins 124 that engage the accessory. Although the retaining pins 124 can be positioned in a variety of locations and any number of retaining pins 124 can be used, in the illustrated embodiment, the hair dryer 102 includes three retaining pins 124, which are located within a channel 118 formed between a central column 120 and a ring 122 positioned circumferentially around the central column 120. As will be described in detail below, the retaining pins 124 are configured to removably secure the accessory to the hair dryer 102 by interacting with a retaining groove formed on an inner hoop of the accessory, which retaining groove can extend into the channel 118. In order to retain the inner hoop, the retaining pins 124 can extend radially inward through the holes in the ring 122. The pins 124 can be spring-loaded so that the pins 124 are radially forced inward. When the inner hoop on the attachment is inserted into the passage 118, the spring allows the pin to move radially outward and allows the pin 124 to return to the radially inward position to engage with the retaining groove on the inner hoop. In addition, the pin 124 can be tapered, such as "conical", to assist the insertion and removal of the attachment.

[0045] In addition to securing the accessory using a retaining mechanism, as described above, the mounting assembly 112 may also include an accessory detection assembly for detecting the type of accessory mounted to the hair dryer 102. Although various techniques may be used to detect the type of accessory mounted to the hair dryer 102, in the illustrated embodiment, the accessory detection assembly includes push rods 130, 132, each of which is connected to a corresponding switch within the housing 104. The push rods 130, 132 may be configured to adopt a predetermined configuration in response to the type of accessory mounted thereto, thereby controlling the switch to indicate the type of accessory. Figures 2A to 7 As shown, the push rods 130, 132 are spaced apart circumferentially and extend axially in a channel 128 formed between the fixing plate 117 and the inner surface 107 of the housing 104. As described below, each push rod 130, 132 can be placed in a slot 131, 133 formed in the inner cover 135, and can be configured to slide axially in the slot 131, 133 between an initial extended position and a retracted position, wherein the rods 130, 132 move toward the switch, thereby moving the switch between an open position and a closed position. The switch can be connected to a controller of the motor and the heater so that different types of accessories can interact with the push rods 130, 132 to control the switch, thereby being able to control the operating parameters of the motor and the heater based on the position of the switch. As will be described in more detail below, when the accessory is mated with the hair dryer 102, the outer hoop of the accessory can extend into the channel 128. Depending on the configuration of the accessory, the accessory may remain spaced apart from the push rods 130 , 132 , may cause axial displacement of a particular one of the push rods, or may cause axial displacement of both push rods 130 , 132 .

[0046] As described above, the mounting assembly may also include features for aligning the accessory with the hair dryer. Certain accessories may need to be able to rotate 360 ​​degrees relative to the hair dryer or between certain predetermined positions. Rotational control may be required based on the configuration of the accessory and / or to control the alignment between the actuation mechanism on the accessory and the accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer.

[0047] In order to allow the accessory to rotate while still enabling the accessory to interact with the push rod to indicate the type of the accessory, an alignment mechanism can be provided for controlling the rotational orientation of the accessory relative to the accessory detection assembly. In the illustrated embodiment, the alignment mechanism is in the form of surface features formed on the central column 120. In particular, the central column 120 includes alignment tabs 126 radially spaced around its outer surface and extending axially along the central column 120. The alignment tabs 126 can be integral with the central column 120. As described in detail below, the alignment tabs 126 protrude radially outward from the central column 120 into the channel 118 and are configured to interact with complementary surface features of the rotational alignment mechanism of the accessory, such as complementary alignment tabs on the inner hoop of the accessory. The alignment tabs 126 can be configured so that when the accessory is mated with the hair dryer 102, the complementary tabs of the inner hoop are forced to slide between the respective alignment tabs 126, keeping the accessory in a predetermined rotational orientation relative to the hair dryer 102, thereby ensuring the correct push rods 130, 132 of the accessory detection assembly are retracted.

[0048] As described above, in order to control operating parameters of the motor and heater using the push rods 130 , 132 , the push rods are positioned to interact with corresponding switches 134 , 136 . Figures 4 to 7 A hair dryer 102 is shown with a portion of the housing 104 removed to show the internal mechanism of the hair dryer 102, and in particular, push rods 130, 132 and switches 134, 136 in different structural configurations are shown. As shown, each switch 134, 136 is configured at the end of the push rod 130, 132 opposite to the end that interacts with the outer hoop of the accessory. In some embodiments, the switches 134, 136 are shutter switches for a closed circuit, wherein the light beam can be blocked by the depressed or retracted push rod. Although the switches 134, 136 can be shutter switches, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that any type of switch can be used to indicate whether the push rod is depressed. As described in detail below, the switches 134, 136 can be in an open position or a closed position depending on the interaction between the outer hoop of the accessory and the push rods 130, 132. The switches 134, 136 are communicatively coupled to a controller, which includes a memory for storing predetermined operating settings for the motor and the heater and a processor for executing these operating settings.

[0049] like Figure 4As shown, the accessory detection assembly is in a first structural configuration, wherein both push rods 130, 132 extend axially toward the output end 104b. When both push rods 130, 132 are extended, the two switches 134, 136 are in the same position, either open or closed. For example, if the push rods are extended, the corresponding switch will be in the closed position. When both push rods 130, 132 are extended, either no accessory is installed to the mounting assembly 112, or an accessory with an outer hoop that does not contact the push rods 130, 132 is installed to the hair dryer 102. The processor can determine that neither switch is in the open position, and then can refer to the stored predetermined operating settings for the motor and heater. Then, when the hair dryer 102 is started by the power button 108, the processor can execute these operating settings.

[0050] like Figure 5 As shown, the accessory detection assembly is in a second structural configuration, wherein the push rod 130 is axially extended and the push rod 132 is axially retracted. When only the push rod 132 is retracted, the switch 134 is in the off position and the switch 136 is in the on position. When only the push rod 132 is retracted, the accessory mounted to the hair dryer 102 includes an outer hoop that interacts only with the push rod 132 and not with the push rod 130. The structure of the outer hoop will be described in detail below, wherein the rotational orientation of the accessory is controlled by the interaction between the alignment tabs 126 of the alignment mechanism and the complementary alignment tabs on the inner hoop of the accessory. The processor can determine that only the switch 136 is in the on position, and then can refer to the stored predetermined operating settings for the motor and the heater. Then, when the hair dryer 102 is activated by the power button 108, the processor can execute these operating settings.

[0051] like Figure 6 As shown, the accessory detection assembly is in a third structural configuration, wherein the push rod 132 is axially extended and the push rod 130 is axially retracted. When only the push rod 130 is retracted, the switch 136 is in the off position and the switch 134 is in the on position. When only the push rod 130 is retracted, the accessory mounted to the hair dryer 102 includes an outer hoop that can interact only with the push rod 130 and not with the push rod 132. The structure of the outer hoop will be described in detail below, wherein the rotational orientation of the accessory is controlled by the interaction between the alignment tabs 126 of the alignment mechanism and the complementary alignment tabs on the inner hoop of the accessory. The processor can determine that only the switch 134 is in the on position, and then can refer to the stored predetermined operating settings for the motor and the heater. Then, when the hair dryer 102 is started by the power button 108, the processor can execute these operating settings.

[0052] like Figure 7As shown, the accessory detection assembly is in a fourth structural configuration, wherein both push rods 130, 132 are axially retracted. With both push rods 130, 132 retracted, both switches 134, 136 are in the open position. When both push rods 130, 132 are retracted, an accessory mounted to the hair dryer 102 contacts both push rods 130, 132. The processor can determine that both switches are in the open position, and can then reference the stored predetermined operating settings for the motor and heater. The processor can then execute these operating settings when the hair dryer 102 is activated via the power button 108.

[0053] As described above, various accessories may be removably mounted to the hair dryer 102 to alter the airflow from the hair dryer 102 . Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The concentrator-type accessory 200 is illustrated in greater detail. As shown, the accessory 200 includes a housing 202 having an air inlet 202a and an air outlet 202b. Similar to a hair dryer, the air inlet 202a includes a mounting assembly that may include a retaining mechanism to facilitate engagement with the hair dryer, an actuation mechanism for actuating an accessory detection assembly, and a rotational alignment mechanism for controlling the rotational orientation of the accessory relative to the hair dryer.

[0054] like Fig. 8A and Figure 8B As shown, the mounting assembly generally includes an outer hoop 204 and an inner hoop 206 for interacting with the mounting assembly on the hair dryer 102. The outer hoop 204 is configured radially outside the inner hoop 206, wherein both the outer hoop 204 and the inner hoop 206 protrude axially from the air inlet 202a. A shoulder 208 can be configured at the air inlet 202a on the outside of the housing 202 so that when the accessory 200 is mounted to the hair dryer 102, the hair dryer 102 can extend around the housing 202 and abut the shoulder 208.

[0055] When mated with the hair dryer 102, the outer hoop 204 can extend within the channel 128 formed between the housing 104 and the fixing plate 117, and the inner hoop 206 can extend within the channel 118 formed between the center post 120 and the ring 122. To help securely mount the accessory 200 to the hair dryer 102, the inner hoop 206 can include a retaining groove 212 disposed on its outer surface and extending circumferentially around the inner hoop 206. As previously described, the retaining pin 124 on the hair dryer mounting mechanism can extend into and engage the retaining groove 212 of the inner hoop 206. When the inner hoop 206 is inserted into the channel 118, the pin 124 is radially displaced by the inner hoop 206. Once the retaining groove 212 and the pin 124 are axially aligned with the housing 104 abutting the shoulder 208, the pin 124 will radially extend into the retaining groove 212 to secure the accessory 200 to the hair dryer 102. In certain embodiments, the retaining slot 212 can be contoured to facilitate installation and removal of the accessory 200 relative to the hair dryer 102 .

[0056] As previously described, the attachment 200 may include an actuating mechanism configured to actuate an attachment detection assembly on the hair dryer 102 to position the attachment detection assembly in one of a plurality of predetermined structural configurations, thereby enabling detection of the type of attachment mounted to the hair dryer. In this embodiment, the actuating mechanism is a flat surface 205 formed on the mounting side of the outer hoop 204, so that the hoop 204 is in the form of a solid ring without additional protrusions. When the attachment 200 is connected to the hair dryer 102, in the case where the outer hoop 204 is configured in the channel 128 between the housing 104 and the fixing plate 117, this configuration allows both push rods 130, 132 to remain in the initial extended position. Therefore, the outer hoop 204 does not interact with either of the push rods 130, 132.

[0057] Because the outer hoop 204 does not interact with the push rods 130, 132, it is not necessary to rotationally align the accessory 200 with the accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer 102. Therefore, in this embodiment, the concentrator accessory 200 can rotate freely. The inner hoop 206 can have a smooth inner surface 210. The smooth inner surface 210 does not engage the alignment tabs 126 of the alignment mechanism, but rather rests on the top of the alignment tabs 126. This configuration of the inner hoop 206 allows the accessory 200 to rotate freely relative to the hair dryer 102 when the accessory 200 is mounted to the hair dryer 102.

[0058] In addition to controlling the operating settings of the motor and heater, some accessories may also include airflow controls on the accessory itself. Figure 1 , Fig. 8A and Figure 8BAs shown, the concentrator attachment 200 includes a rod 214 configured in a slot 216 formed in the housing 202. The rod 214 can slide in the slot 216 and can be connected to an internal baffle system that can reduce the size of the air outlet 202b. The reduction in the size of the air outlet 202b can further control the airflow rate from the attachment 200.

[0059] Another exemplary attachment diagram is shown in FIG. Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B . Accessory 300 includes a housing 302 having an air inlet 302a and an air outlet 302b. Air inlet 302a includes a mounting assembly for interacting with a mounting assembly on a hair dryer. Similar to a hair dryer, the mounting assembly on accessory 300 may include a retaining mechanism to facilitate engagement with the hair dryer, an actuation mechanism for actuating an accessory detection assembly, and a rotational alignment mechanism for controlling the rotational orientation of the accessory relative to the hair dryer.

[0060] like Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B As shown, the mounting assembly generally includes an outer hoop 304 and an inner hoop 306. The outer hoop 304 is arranged radially outside the inner hoop 306, and both the outer hoop 304 and the inner hoop 306 protrude axially from the air inlet 302a. A shoulder 308 may be arranged on the housing 302 at the air inlet 302a so that when the accessory 300 is mounted to the hair dryer 102, the hair dryer 102 may abut against the shoulder 308.

[0061] As with the concentrator attachment 200, when the diffuser attachment 300 is mated to the hair dryer 102, the outer hoop 304 can extend within the channel 128 formed between the housing 104 and the retaining plate 117, and the inner hoop 306 can extend within the channel 118 formed between the center post 120 and the ring 122. To help securely mount the attachment 200 to the hair dryer 102, the inner hoop 306 can include a retaining groove 312 disposed on an outer surface of the inner hoop 306 that extends circumferentially around the inner hoop 306. As previously described, the pin 124 of the retaining mechanism can engage with the retaining groove 312 of the inner hoop 306 in the same manner that the pin 124 interacts with the retaining groove 212 on the inner hoop 206 of the concentrator attachment 200.

[0062] The diffuser attachment 300 may also include an actuation mechanism configured to actuate an attachment detection assembly located on the hair dryer. In this embodiment, the outer hoop 304 includes a protrusion 305 formed on an end face of the outer hoop 304 and protruding axially from the end face. The protrusion 305 may be configured circumferentially around the outer hoop 304 and may be sized and positioned to actuate only one of the push rods 130, 132 when the attachment 300 is fitted to the hair dryer 102. In this embodiment, the protrusion 305 is in the form of a curved valley between curved peaks. The peaks and valleys are spaced such that one protrusion is aligned with one push rod and the valley is aligned with the other push rod. As a result, one push rod aligned with the protrusion will move to a retracted position, thereby switching the corresponding switch from closed to open. The other push rod will remain in an extended position and the corresponding switch remains closed.

[0063] In order to properly align the actuation mechanism on the accessory 300 with the hair dryer so as to actuate a predetermined one of the push rods 130, 132, the inner hoop 306 may include an alignment tab 311 disposed on its inner surface 310. The alignment tab 311 may be in the form of a protruding surface feature having a shape that is complementary to the shape of the alignment tab 126 on the hair dryer 102. This configuration of the inner hoop 306 controls the rotational orientation of the accessory 300 relative to the hair dryer 102 when the accessory 300 is mounted to the hair dryer 102. When the inner hoop 306 is inserted into the channel 118 on the hair dryer 102, the alignment tabs 126 and 311 engage to align the protrusion 305 with the predetermined one of the push rods 130, 132. The accessory 300 is prevented from rotating on the hair dryer 102. However, the rotational alignment mechanism allows the accessory 300 to be mounted to the hair dryer 102 in a variety of rotational positions without requiring the user to align the accessory 300 in a particular orientation relative to the hair dryer. In other words, the accessory 300 can be mounted to the hair dryer in any rotational orientation, and the tabs 126, 311 will interact to properly align the protrusion 305 with the rods 130, 132 of the accessory detection member. To ensure that the protrusion 305 of the outer hoop contacts only the correct push rod 130, 132 when the accessory 300 is mounted in any of the various available rotational positions, the rotational positions of both the outer hoop 304 and the inner hoop 306 can be fixed relative to each other.

[0064] In addition to controlling the operating settings of the motor and heater, the accessory 300 may also include airflow controls similar to the accessory 200. The accessory 300 may include a rod 314 that is disposed within a slot 316 formed in the housing 302. The rod 314 may slide within the slot 316 and is connected to a prong located at the end of the diffuser, which allows the prong to be retracted into the diffuser.

[0065] Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B Another embodiment of an accessory in the form of a brush-type accessory 400 is illustrated. Accessory 400 is substantially similar to accessory 300 and includes a housing 402 having an air inlet 402a and an air outlet 402b. Air outlet 402b includes a mounting assembly for interacting with a mounting assembly on a hair dryer. Similar to a hair dryer, the mounting assembly on brush accessory 400 may include a retaining mechanism to facilitate engagement with the hair dryer, an actuation mechanism for actuating an accessory detection assembly, and a rotational alignment mechanism for controlling the rotational orientation of the accessory relative to the hair dryer.

[0066] like Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B 4. As shown, the mounting assembly generally includes an outer hoop 404 disposed radially outward of an inner hoop 406, wherein the outer hoop 404 and the inner hoop 406 protrude axially from the air inlet 402a. The illustrated accessory 400 also includes a support hoop 407, which is located radially outward of the outer hoop 404 and surrounds the outer hoop 404. The support hoop 407 is configured to extend around the housing 104 of the hair dryer to provide further support. Such a hoop can be used with heavier accessories or accessories that are subject to significant forces during use.

[0067] Similar to the diffuser attachment 300, the inner hoop 406 of the brush attachment 400 may include a retaining groove 412 disposed on an outer surface of the inner hoop 406. As previously described, the pin 124 of the mounting assembly 112 may be configured to extend into and engage the retaining groove 412 of the inner hoop 406, in the same manner that the pin 124 interacts with the retaining groove 212 of the inner hoop 206.

[0068] In addition, similar to the accessory 300, the outer hoop 404 may include a protrusion 405 formed on an end surface thereof and extending axially from the outer hoop 404. The illustrated protrusion 405 has a similar configuration to the protrusion 305 and is configured to contact only one of the push rods 130, 132 when the accessory 400 is mounted to the hair dryer 102. Thus, when the accessory 400 is mounted to the hair dryer 102, the outer hoop 404 will extend into the channel 128 between the housing 104 and the fixing plate 117, and one protrusion 405 will contact and move one push rod to the extended position, while the other push rod extends into the valley between adjacent protrusions 405.

[0069] Similar to the diffuser attachment 300, the brush attachment 400 may also include an alignment tab 411 disposed on the inner surface 410 of the inner hoop 406. When the inner hoop 406 is inserted into the passage 118, the alignment tab 411 is complementary to and engages with the alignment tab 126 of the alignment mechanism. This configuration of the inner hoop 406 controls the rotational orientation of the attachment 400 relative to the hair dryer 102 when the attachment 400 is mounted to the hair dryer 102.

[0070] In order to enable the hair dryer 102 to distinguish between the diffuser attachment 300 and the brush attachment 400, the alignment tab 411 on the brush attachment 400 can be configured to align the protrusion 405 to move a different one of the push rods 130, 132 than the brush attachment 400 to the retracted position. This can be achieved by forming the alignment tab 411 and the protrusion 405 at positions relative to each other that result in the desired alignment. Since the inner hoop 406 and the outer hoop 404 are non-rotatably connected to the housing 402, the rotational positions of both the inner hoop 406 and the outer hoop 404 are fixed relative to each other, thereby ensuring that the protrusion 405 of the outer hoop 404 only contacts the correct push rod 130, 132 when the attachment 400 is installed in any of the various available rotational positions. For example, when the diffuser attachment 300 is installed to the hair dryer 102, the protrusion 305 can only contact the push rod 130. In contrast, when the brush attachment 400 is mounted to the hair dryer 102, the protrusion 405 can only contact the push rod 132. Due to this configuration, the hair dryer system 100 can detect and utilize different operating parameters of the diffuser attachment 300 and the brush attachment 400 without requiring user input.

[0071] Another exemplary attachment is Fig.11A and Fig. 11B It is shown in Fig.11A and Fig. 11B A curling iron type accessory is depicted. The accessory 500 includes a housing 502 having an air inlet 502a and an air outlet 502b. The air outlet 502b includes a mounting assembly for interacting with a mounting assembly on a hair dryer. Similar to the hair dryer, the mounting assembly on the curling iron accessory 500 may include a retaining mechanism to facilitate engagement with the hair dryer, an actuation mechanism for actuating an accessory detection assembly, and a rotational alignment mechanism for controlling the rotational orientation of the accessory relative to the hair dryer.

[0072] like Fig.11A and Fig. 11B As shown, the mounting assembly generally includes an outer hoop 504 disposed radially outward of an inner hoop 506. The illustrated accessory 500 also includes a support hoop 507 located radially outward of and surrounding the outer hoop 504. The support hoop 507 is configured to extend around the housing 104 of the hair dryer to provide further support. Such a hoop can be used with heavier accessories or accessories that are subject to significant forces during use.

[0073] Similar to other accessories, the inner hoop 506 of the curling iron accessory 500 may include a retaining groove 512 disposed on an outer surface of the inner hoop 506. As previously described, the pin 124 of the retaining mechanism may be configured to extend into and engage with the retaining groove 512 of the inner hoop 506, in the same manner as the pin 124 interacts with the retaining groove 212 of the inner hoop 206.

[0074] As with other accessories, the mounting assembly on the curling iron accessory 500 may also include an actuation mechanism for actuating an accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer to enable the hair dryer to detect the type of accessory installed. In this embodiment, similar to the accessory 200, the outer hoop 504 is a solid ring without additional protrusions. However, the outer hoop 504 can be configured to interact with both push rods 130, 132. In particular, when the accessory 500 is mounted to the hair dryer 102, the outer hoop 504 can extend into the channel 128 between the housing 104 and the fixing plate 117 to a distance that moves the push rods 130, 132 from the extended position to the retracted position.

[0075] Although the outer hoop 504 has a planar configuration and can be fitted in any rotational orientation relative to the hair dryer 102, the inner hoop 506 can still include an alignment feature to align the accessory relative to the hair dryer. Due to the design and weight of the accessory 500, the design of the accessory 500 may cause a lever moment. Thus, the alignment tabs 511 can prevent the accessory 500 from accidentally rotating when in use. Therefore, the inner hoop 506 can include a rotational alignment mechanism, such as an alignment tab 511 configured on its inner surface 510. Similar to the alignment tab 311 on the inner hoop 306 of the diffuser accessory 300, when the inner hoop 506 is inserted into the channel 118 on the hair dryer 102, the alignment tab 511 complements and engages with the alignment tab 126 of the alignment mechanism. When the accessory 500 is installed to the hair dryer 102, this configuration of the inner hoop 506 controls the rotational orientation of the accessory 500 relative to the hair dryer 102.

[0076] In certain embodiments, the alignment tabs on any of the accessories disclosed herein can be configured to position the accessory in a predetermined number of fixed rotational orientations relative to the hair dryer. For example, a first accessory such as the curling iron accessory 500 may include a single alignment tab that only allows the accessory to be mounted with the hair dryer 102 in a single orientation, while a second accessory such as the brush accessory 400 may include two alignment tabs that allow the accessory 400 to be mounted to the hair dryer 102 in two independent orientations. Other accessories may include three alignment tabs that allow the accessory to be mounted to the hair dryer 102 in three independent orientations, four alignment tabs that allow the accessory to be mounted to the hair dryer in four independent orientations, and the like. The specific number of alignment tabs may vary depending on the specific type of accessory and its desired rotational orientation. Moreover, as previously noted with respect to the diffuser accessory 200, an accessory may be completely free of alignment tabs to enable the accessory to rotate freely relative to the hair dryer.

[0077] While the rotational alignment mechanism on each accessory can vary as needed depending on the type of accessory, the actuation mechanism on each accessory and its interaction with the accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer can also vary. However, the rotational alignment mechanism may be limited by the actuation mechanism. For example, a rotational alignment mechanism that allows the accessory to rotate freely can be used in conjunction with an actuation mechanism that allows push rods 130, 132 to remain in an extended position or causes both push rods 130, 132 to move to a retracted position. In contrast, in the case where a specific one of the push rods 130, 132 is moved to a retracted position, the rotational alignment mechanism may need to have a structure that aligns the actuation mechanism with the push rods 130, 132 to achieve actuation of a specific one of the push rods 130, 132. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that each accessory can have a rotational alignment mechanism and an actuation mechanism that work together to provide the desired rotation while still allowing the hair dryer to detect the type of accessory.

[0078] As previously described, when any of the accessories 200, 300, 400, 500 is installed to the hair dryer, the structural configuration of the accessory detection mechanism generated will enable the hair dryer 102 to detect the type of accessory installed. As a result, the hair dryer 102 can automatically control the operating settings based on the detected accessory type. Typically, the operating settings of the motor and heater can have multiple levels, such as low, medium and high. For example, the low speed setting of the motor can be in the range of 20-25 cubic feet per minute (CFM). The medium speed setting of the motor can be in the range of 25-30CFM. The high speed setting of the motor can be in the range of 30-35CFM. In addition, the low heat setting of the heater can be in the range of 55-70°C. The medium heat setting of the heater can be in the range of 70-85°C. The high heat setting of the heater can be in the range of 85-100°C.

[0079] Each attachment may have different operating settings. For example, the operating settings for the concentrator-type attachment 200 may be a high motor speed setting and a high heat setting. The operating settings for the diffuser-type attachment 300 may be a medium motor speed setting and a low heat setting. The operating settings for the brush-type attachment 400 may be a low motor speed setting and a medium heat setting. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the operating settings listed for each type of attachment may be altered depending on the operational requirements of the hair dryer.

[0080] As previously described, the hair dryer 102 includes a controller having a processor and a memory storing predetermined operating settings. Fig.12 A method 600 of a controller operating a hair dryer 102 is depicted. Switches 134, 136 are connected to the controller to send electrical signals from the switches to the controller. At step 602, the hair dryer 102 is activated by the user pressing the power button 108 on the hair dryer 102. Once activated, the controller needs to determine which structural configuration the mounting assembly 112 is in by determining the position of the switches 134, 136. At step 604, when the hair dryer 102 is operated, signals are sent from the switches 134, 136 so that the hair dryer 102 determines which operating settings from the memory are to be executed. When the switches 134, 136 are actuated by the push rods 130, 132 during the installation and removal of various accessories, the signals sent to the controller will alternate and correspond to the new positions of the switches 134, 136. In the illustrated embodiment, because there are two switches, there can be four predetermined operating settings, namely, both switches are closed, both switches are open, the first switch is open and the second switch is closed, and the first switch is closed and the second switch is open. At step 606, each operating setting may have a unique motor setting and / or heating setting stored in memory and may be retrieved from memory based on signals from switches 134, 136. At step 608, once the corresponding operating setting is retrieved from memory, the processor may execute the operating setting for the heater and / or motor. For example, in the case where only switch 134 is actuated, the predetermined operating setting for the heater and motor is executed by the processor according to the memory corresponding to actuating only switch 134. When switch 134 is no longer actuated, the processor may use the stored operating setting to change the operating setting for the motor and heater corresponding to the new structural configuration of switches 134, 136 by repeating steps 604 to 608.

[0081] In the illustrated embodiment, four accessories 200, 300, 400, 500 are described, each of which has its own unique operating settings for the motor and heater. However, although four accessories are described, any number of accessories can be provided and used with the hair dryer 102. A plurality of accessories can be provided that can operate with the same operating settings as one of the accessories 200, 300, 400, 500, causing the accessory detection assembly to move to the same structural configuration to operate with the same operating settings. In addition, although only two push rods and switches are disclosed in the illustrated embodiment, the hair dryer can include any number of push rods and switches to allow more than four combinations, and thereby allow more than four predetermined stored operating settings.

[0082] Certain exemplary embodiments have been described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of structure, function, manufacture and use of the methods, devices and systems disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments have been shown in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the systems, devices and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, and the scope of the present disclosure is limited only by the claims. Features illustrated or described in conjunction with an exemplary embodiment may be combined with features of other embodiments. Such variations and changes are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, in the present disclosure, components with the same name as the embodiments generally have similar features, so in a particular embodiment, the individual features of each component with the same name do not have to be fully described in detail.

[0083] Approximate language used herein throughout the specification and claims may be used to modify any quantitative representation that allows variation without causing a change in the basic function associated therewith. Therefore, values ​​modified by one or more terms, such as "approximately," "approximately," and "substantially" are not limited to the precise values ​​specified. In at least some cases, approximate language may correspond to the precision of the instrument used to measure the value. Herein and throughout the specification and claims, unless the context or language indicates otherwise, range limitations may be combined and / or interchanged, and such ranges are identified and include all subranges contained therein.

[0084] Based on the above embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate the further features and advantages of the present disclosure. Therefore, except as indicated in the appended claims, the present application is not limited by the contents that have been specifically shown and described. All publications and references cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Claims

1. A hair dryer system, comprising: A hair dryer configured to detachably engage with each of a plurality of different types of attachments, Characterized in that the hair dryer comprises: an air inlet and an air outlet configured to supply heated air, a memory configured to store different predetermined operating settings corresponding to each of the plurality of different types of accessories, and A processor configured to: Once the hair dryer is activated and the hair dryer is detachably mated with one of the plurality of different types of accessories, an electrical signal is received, determining a type of the one of the plurality of different types of accessories based on the received electrical signal, and Based on the determined type of the one of the plurality of different types of attachments, the predetermined operation setting corresponding to the determined type of the one of the plurality of different types of attachments is retrieved from the memory.

2. The hair dryer system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The processor is configured to execute the acquired predetermined operation setting.

3. The hair dryer system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The processor is configured to automatically execute the acquired predetermined operation settings.

4. The hair dryer system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electrical signal received by the processor is unique to the one of the plurality of different types of accessories to allow the processor to determine a type of the one of the plurality of different types of accessories from the plurality of different types of accessories.

5. The hair dryer system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The hair dryer also includes a motor and a heater; and The predetermined operating settings each include a setting of the motor and a setting of the heater.

6. The hair dryer system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The hair dryer also includes an alignment mechanism configured to align each of the plurality of different types of accessories in at least one predetermined rotational orientation relative to the hair dryer.

7. The hair dryer system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that The hair dryer system also includes the plurality of different types of accessories.

8. The hair dryer system according to claim 7, characterized in that: Each of the plurality of different types of attachments has at least one surface feature configured to interact with a corresponding surface feature on the hair dryer; Each of the plurality of different types of accessories has a hoop including the at least one surface feature; and The hoop protrudes axially from the air inlet of the accessory.

9. The hair dryer system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The at least one surface feature is configured to align the accessory in a predetermined rotational orientation relative to the hair dryer.

10. The hair dryer system according to claim 7, characterized in that: A first accessory of the plurality of different types of accessories is a curling iron; and A second accessory of the plurality of different types of accessories is a brush.

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