Hairstyling appliance having a rotary head and automatic selection of the direction of rotation of the head

Abstract

The invention relates to a portable electric hairstyling appliance (1) comprising a main body (2), a styling head (4) connected to the main body (2) and comprising a rotary portion (16) provided with an element (7) for mechanically engaging the hair, and a module (17) for electrically rotating the rotary portion (16) relative to the main body (2) in a first or a second direction of rotation, the appliance comprising a device for detecting a direction of forced rotation in which the rotary portion is made to rotate when the hair exerts a force counter to the element for mechanically engaging the hair, and a device for automatically selecting the first or the second direction of rotation depending on the detected direction of the forced rotation. The invention relates to the field of hairstyling appliances.

Description

HAIRDRESSING APPLIANCE WITH ROTATING HEAD AND AUTOMATIC SELECTION OF THE DIRECTION OF ROTATION OF SAID HEAD TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to the general technical field of hairdressing appliances, for example for domestic use, and more specifically to the field of portable hairdressing appliances designed to assist in shaping hair. PRIOR TECHNIQUE

[0002] The invention relates more specifically to a portable electric hairdressing appliance comprising a main body including a manual gripping handle, a styling head connected to the main body and comprising a rotating part which is provided with a mechanical hair engagement element intended to come into contact with the hair to help shape said hair, and an electric drive module for driving said rotating part in rotation about an axis of rotation relative to the main body alternately in a first direction of rotation and in a second opposite direction of rotation.

[0003] Generally speaking, portable electric hairdressing appliances are known, a styling head of which comprises a mechanical hair engagement element, such as brush bristles for example, intended to come into contact with the hair to help shape the latter. In particular, hairbrushes are known, whether blow-drying or not, a part of the styling head of which is rotatably mounted thanks to an onboard electric motor, in order to achieve certain hair shaping effects, such as for example "blow-drys". These known hairdressing appliances are provided with manual control switches on which the user can interact in order to control rotation of a rotating part of the styling head in a desired direction of rotation.

[0004] Such control of the rotation of the rotating part of the styling head of the hairdressing appliance, by means of manual control switches, is generally relatively simple and practical to implement for a user. working on the hair of a third person. On the other hand, it turns out to be much more complex and counter-intuitive for a user wishing to use the hairdressing appliance on their own hair, in particular when the user uses a mirror, which reflects an inverted image, during the styling operation. For example, depending on the position and general orientation of the rotating hairbrush in relation to their head and hair, the user may have difficulty identifying which switch they need to press to obtain the desired styling effect by rotating the rotating part of the styling head of the hairbrush. STATEMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The objects assigned to the invention therefore aim to provide a response to the above-mentioned problem, and to propose a new portable electric hairdressing appliance whose use is particularly simple and intuitive, in particular for a person using the hairdressing appliance on their own hair.

[0006] Another object of the invention is to propose a new, particularly ergonomic portable electric hairdressing appliance.

[0007] Another object of the invention is to propose a new portable electric hairdressing appliance which is particularly robust and reliable.

[0008] Another object of the invention is to propose a new portable electric hairdressing appliance whose use is particularly safe, practical and economical.

[0009] Another object of the invention is to propose a new portable electric hairdressing appliance of particularly simple construction, the manufacture of which is relatively easy and its costs controlled.

[0010] The objects assigned to the invention are achieved by means of a portable electric hairdressing appliance comprising a main body including a manual gripping handle, a styling head connected to said main body and comprising a rotating part which is provided with a mechanical hair engagement element intended to come into contact with the hair to help shape said hair, and an electric drive module for driving said rotating part in rotation about an axis of rotation relative to the main body alternately in a first direction of rotation and in a second opposite direction of rotation, the apparatus being characterized in that it comprises a device for detecting a direction of forced rotation of the rotating part under the effect of a mechanical force exerted by the hair against said mechanical hair engagement element, and a device for automatically selecting a direction of rotation of the rotating part of the styling head from among said first and second directions of rotation as a function of the detected direction of forced rotation. SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Other features and advantages of the invention will appear and emerge in more detail on reading the description given below, with reference to the appended drawings, given solely by way of illustrative and non-limiting example, among which: - Figure 1 illustrates, in a perspective view, an embodiment of a hairdressing appliance according to the invention, which the appliance here constitutes a rotating brush, advantageously blow-drying and heating. The appliance is illustrated here in a configuration in which the styling head of the latter is in a first position relative to the main body of the appliance (straight configuration); - figure 2 illustrates, in a perspective view, the apparatus of figure 1, illustrated in another configuration, in which the styling head is in a second position relative to the main body of the apparatus (angled configuration); - figure 3 illustrates, in a front view, the apparatus of figures 1 and 2 in its straight configuration illustrated in figure 1; - figure 4 illustrates schematically and in an exploded view, the apparatus of figure 3; - Figure 5 illustrates, in a side view in longitudinal section, the apparatus of Figures 1 to 4 according to a particular design, in which the device for detecting a direction of forced rotation of the rotating part of the styling head comprises first and second switches, as sensors of a first and a second angular position that the part can occupy rotary part of the styling head, and first and second actuating members intended to cooperate with said first and second switches according to the position reached by said rotary part, said switches and said actuating members being arranged to allow actuation of each of the switches in an actuation direction which is orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the rotary part of the styling head; - figure 6 illustrates, in an exploded perspective view, a detail of the particular design of the apparatus which is illustrated in figure 5; - figure 7 illustrates, in a top view, a case of the electric drive module of the rotating part of the styling head according to the particular design of figures 5 and 6; - Figure 8 illustrates, according to a schematic sectional view 11 (see Figure 5) of the styling head, three particular angular positions that the rotating part of the styling head can occupy within a predetermined angular pivoting range, according to the particular design of Figures 5 to 7. In Figure 8(a), the rotating part of the styling head occupies a first angular position, in which the first actuating member cooperates with the first switch. In Figure 8(a), the rotating part of the styling head occupies a first angular position, in which the first actuating member cooperates with the first switch. In Figure 8(c), the rotating part of the styling head occupies a second angular position, in which the second actuating member cooperates with the second switch.In Figure 8(b), the rotating part of the styling head occupies a third angular position, intermediate to the first and second angular positions, in which the actuating members do not cooperate with any of the switches; - figure 9 illustrates, according to a schematic sectional view ll-ll (see figure 5) of the styling head, the three particular angular positions of figure 8. Produced at a different altitude according to the axis of rotation of the rotary part of the styling head, coincident with the direction of longitudinal extension of the styling head, figure 9 illustrates the abutment of the case of the electric drive module of the rotary part with a switch support secured to the motor housing of a geared motor of the electric drive module for delimiting the predetermined angular range of pivoting of the rotating part of the styling head; - Figure 10 illustrates, in an exploded perspective view, a detail of another particular design of the apparatus of Figures 1 to 4, different from that illustrated in Figures 5 to 9, in which said switches and said actuating members are arranged to allow actuation of each of the switches in an actuation direction which is this time parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotating part of the styling head. In Figure 10, the rotating part of the styling head visible in Figures 1 to 4 has been omitted; - figure 11 illustrates, in a top view, a case of the electric drive module of the rotating part of the styling head according to the particular design of figure 10; - figure 12 illustrates, in a longitudinal sectional view along the axis of rotation of the rotating part of the styling head of the appliance, a detail of the particular design of figures 10 and 11; - figure 13 illustrates schematically and in an exploded view, a detail of the particular design of figures 10 and 12; - figure 14 illustrates an example of an electrical design diagram of the device illustrated in figures 1 to 4. This electrical design diagram can be implemented indifferently for the particular designs of figures 5 to 9 and figures 10 to 13; - figure 15 schematically illustrates an example of use and operation of the device of figures 1 to 4; - figure 16 schematically illustrates another example of use and operation of the device of figures 1 to 4; - figure 17 schematically illustrates yet another example of use and operation of the apparatus of figures 1 to 4; - Figure 18 schematically illustrates yet another example of use and operation of the device of Figures 1 to 4. BEST WAY TO CARRY OUT THE INVENTION

[0012] The invention relates to a portable, manual electric hairdressing appliance 1. The appliance 1 according to the invention is therefore designed to be grasped and manipulated by hand, and intended to be powered by an electrical energy source to ensure its operation. Preferably, the appliance 1 is intended for use in a domestic setting by a user (woman or man) without particular professional hairdressing skills. Preferably, the appliance 1 is designed and configured so that the user uses the appliance 1 on themselves, that is to say on their own hair. However, it is perfectly conceivable that the appliance 1 is designed and configured for use by the user on the hair of a third person.

[0013] The appliance 1 comprises a main body 2 including a handle 3 for manual gripping and a styling head 4 connected to said main body 2. The main body 2 therefore comprises at least one portion forming a handle 3, by which the appliance 1 is intended to be held manually for use. The handle 3 thus forms a manual gripping member, intended to be grasped by the user to manipulate the appliance 1. Advantageously, the main body 2 extends in a mean longitudinal extension direction D1 -DT, between a first end 2A and an opposite second end 2B, and therefore has a generally elongated shape. For example, the handle 3 of the appliance 1 forms a handle, and thus has an elongated shape. In other words, the handle 3 thus has a slender, elongate shape, so that it can be grasped with the whole hand.Advantageously, as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the handle 3 extends longitudinally in a direction parallel to, or coincident with, the average direction of longitudinal extension D1 -DT of the main body 2. Preferably, the styling head 4 is connected, advantageously in a removable manner, to the main body 2 at the first end 2A of the latter, so that the styling head 4 extends the main body 2 from the first end 2A of the latter.

[0014] The device 1 is preferably designed to be electrically powered from the mains (power supply from the electrical distribution network, under an alternating voltage), and can thus include a power cord 5 (illustrated truncated in the figures) provided at a free end with an electrical connection plug (not shown). Alternatively, the device 1 could comprise one or more electric batteries or accumulators, advantageously embedded inside the main body 2, in order to provide electrical power to the device 1. Advantageously, the device 1 may comprise a general switch 6 for electrical power supply, on which the user can act at least to alternately put into electrical operation or interrupt the electrical operation of the device 1.

[0015] Typically, the styling head 4 may extend longitudinally along a mean longitudinal extension direction D2-D2'. The styling head 4 of the appliance 1 comprises a mechanical engagement element 7 for the hair C, which is intended to come into contact with the hair C (in use of the appliance 1) to help shape said hair C. Designed and configured to interact mechanically with the hair C, in particular to brush it, set it, style it and / or comb it, the mechanical engagement element 7 for the hair C may typically comprise a plurality of bristles, tufts of bristles and / or spikes, which are arranged to project from an external surface of the styling head 4.In use of the apparatus 1, the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair C may thus be applied to and against the hair C to help shape the latter by mechanical interaction between the hair C and the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair C. More specifically, when using the apparatus 1, the bristles and / or pins of the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair C penetrate into the user's hair, so that a reciprocal mechanical interaction is generated between the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair C and the user's hair C.

[0016] Advantageously, as in the example illustrated in the figures, the hairdressing appliance 1 may comprise a blower module s (or “motor-fan unit”), advantageously on board, to generate a flow of air intended to be blown towards the hair via the styling head 4. The hairdressing appliance 1 is then advantageously provided with at least one air inlet 9, through which ambient air can be sucked in by the blower module 8 in order to be blown towards the user’s hair. The blower module 8, which typically comprises at least one fan driven by an electric motor 10, is preferably arranged within the main body 2. More preferably, particularly from an ergonomic point of view, the blower module 8 is arranged so that the handle 3 of the main body 2 is positioned between the styling head 4 and the blower module 8. The appliance 1 advantageously comprises a guide channel 11 (figure 5) arranged inside the main body 2 to guide, channel, the air flow from the blower module 8 to the styling head 4. In return, the styling head 4 comprises at least one air blower outlet 12, which is (or can be put) in air communication with the blower module 8 to allow the ejection, out of the appliance 1, of the air flow generated by the blower module 8 towards the hair C of the user. For example, the air blowing outlet 12 may comprise, or be formed by, a plurality of (distinctive and spaced apart from each other) air blowing orifices, as illustrated in the examples in the figures.The device 1 can then constitute a blow-drying brush, for example, allowing the user to use the air flow, advantageously heated, both to dry and to facilitate the styling of the hair C.

[0017] Advantageously, the hairdressing appliance 1 may comprise an electric heating element 13, designed and configured for example to raise the temperature of the air flow generated by the blower module 8 and / or to heat at least one zone of the styling head 4, and preferably then a zone of the styling head 4 which is intended to come into contact with the hair C in use of the appliance 1. Optionally, the electric heating element 13 may be designed and configured to raise (directly) the temperature of the air flow generated by the blower module 8 and to indirectly heat a zone of the styling head 4 which, in operation of the appliance 1, is in contact with the air flow thus heated.In the case where the electric heating element 13 is at least intended to raise the temperature of the air flow generated by the blower module 8, the electric heating element 13 is advantageously arranged so as to be interposed in the air flow, upstream of the air blowing outlet 12 of the styling head 4. As in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the electric heating element 13 may advantageously be positioned inside the air guide channel 11 formed in the main body 2 (figure 5). Alternatively, the electric heating element 13 may be housed inside the styling head 4, in particular when it is intended to heat an area of ​​the styling head 4, typically by thermal conduction.The electric heating element 13 is typically an electric heating element operating on the principle of the Joule effect, and thus comprises, for example, at least one electric heating resistor 14A, 14B, 14C, 14C, 14E formed from a wire. electrical conductor (not shown) wrapped around an insulating core and / or at least one “Positive Temperature Coefficient” (PTC) thermistor). The device 1 can then constitute a heated brush or a heated blow-drying brush, for example.

[0018] Optionally, as in the example illustrated in the figures, the device 1 may comprise an articulation system 15 of the styling head 4 relative to the main body 2 to allow the styling head 4 to move between at least two different, stable functional positions, namely: - a first position in which the average longitudinal extension direction D1-D1' of the main body 2 and the average longitudinal extension direction D2-D2' of the styling head 4 form a flat angle between them, i.e. said directions are coincident or parallel, so that the styling head 4 is thus aligned with the main body 2 of the appliance 1 (figure 1, so-called straight configuration), and - a second position in which the average longitudinal extension direction D1-D1' of the main body 2 and the average longitudinal extension direction D2-D2' of the styling head 4 form between them an angle α different from the flat angle, so that the styling head 4 and the main body 2 of the appliance 1 form an elbow, one being inclined relative to the other (figure 2, so-called elbow configuration). For example, said angle α is between 100° and 170°, preferably between 130° and 170° and advantageously equal to 150°.

[0019] The hairdressing appliance 1 can then advantageously comprise a locking device which is movable between a free position, allowing the styling head 4 to move between the first position and the second position, and conversely, a locked position in which the styling head 4 is locked in position in one of the first and second positions, according to the user's choice. Advantageously, such an articulation of the styling head 4 can be produced as described in French patent application FR-3 102 347 A1. The implementation of such an articulation of the styling head 4 makes it possible to remarkably improve the ergonomics of the hairdressing appliance 1, in particular for a user who would use the appliance 1 on himself. Indeed, the user can use the appliance 1 in the first position to shape his hair located on the side of his head. The user can also place the styling head 4 of the appliance 1 in the second position to carry out the shaping of the hair located at the back of the head and / or on the sides of the head. The fact that the main body 2 (and therefore advantageously the manual gripping handle 3) and the styling head 4 are then angled relative to each other makes it possible to avoid the user having to “break his arm” (i.e. raise his shoulder in order to extend his arm perpendicular to his body, while completely folding his forearm back) or his wrist to reach the hair arranged behind his head. The dispensation of this complex and uncomfortable movement greatly improves the ergonomics of the appliance 1 and avoids any corresponding pain for the user. In addition, to shape the hair arranged on the top of his head, it is not necessary for the user to raise his shoulder and his arm (i.e. form a right angle between his arm and his body).Indeed, by placing the styling head 4 in the second position, the user can reach the top of his head while keeping his arm and shoulder alongside the body.

[0020] The styling head 4 of the appliance 1 according to the invention comprises a rotating part 16 which is provided with the mechanical hair engagement element C, described above, so that the latter is therefore carried by said rotating part 16 and is therefore integral with the latter in rotation. Thus, a rotation of the rotating part 16 causes a joint rotation of the mechanical hair engagement element 7 C. Mounted for rotation along an axis A of rotation relative to the main body 2 of the appliance 1, the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 may for example be of cylindrical shape (for example with a circular base), and the mechanical hair engagement element 7 C may be arranged along all or part of a length of the rotating part 16, and along all or part of an outer periphery of the rotating part 16, projecting from an outer surface of said rotating part 16.The rotational movement of the rotating part 16 is advantageously a rotational movement (at least) over one complete revolution, i.e. (at least) over 360°. However, it could be envisaged, without departing from the scope of the invention, that the rotational movement of the rotating part 16 is angularly limited, i.e. that the rotation does not take place over one complete revolution, but only according to a certain predefined angular amplitude.

[0021] Advantageously, the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 extends longitudinally along an extension axis which coincides with said rotation axis A. Optionally, the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 can form a removable accessory, which is therefore connected in a separable, detachable manner to the main body 2 of the appliance 1, so that for example the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 can thus constitute an interchangeable accessory of the appliance 1.

[0022] The apparatus 1 further comprises an electric drive module 17 for driving the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 in rotation about its axis A of rotation relative to the main body 2, and therefore relative to the manual gripping handle 3 (or sleeve), alternately in a first direction of rotation SRI and in a second opposite direction of rotation SR2 (i.e. either in said first direction of rotation SRI, or in said second direction of rotation SR?).In this respect, the electric drive module 17 may comprise an electric motor, or preferably an electric geared motor 18 (i.e. an electric motor associated with a mechanical reducer), as well as advantageously an output shaft 19 to which the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4 is connected (or at least capable of being connected) so that a rotation of the output shaft 19 causes a joint rotation of the rotary part 16, along the axis A of rotation of the latter. Preferably, the output shaft 19 and the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4 are connected to each other in rotation via a coupling system, advantageously reversible, detachable. Preferably in terms of space requirement in particular, the output shaft 19 is rotatable along the axis A of rotation of said rotary part 16.

[0023] The electric drive module 17 is preferably arranged inside the styling head 4. Thus, the electric drive module 17 can advantageously be connected to the main body 2 and housed within a free internal space provided inside the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4. Such an arrangement of the electric drive module 17 outside the main body 2, and therefore outside the manual gripping handle 3 of the appliance 1, thus makes it possible in particular to reduce the size of the manual gripping handle 3, in particular its diameter, which improves the ergonomics of the appliance 1.

[0024] As in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the hairdressing appliance 1 is advantageously devoid of an auxiliary arm pivotally connected to the main body 2, and movable between - an open position (first position), in which the auxiliary arm is sufficiently far from the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 to allow the placement of hair C between the auxiliary arm and said rotating part 16, and - a closed position (second position), in which the auxiliary arm is sufficiently close to the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 to force the hair C, placed between the auxiliary arm and said rotating part 16, into contact with the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair C carried by the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4.

[0025] In particular, the hairdressing appliance 1 is advantageously devoid of such an auxiliary arm which would also carry a mechanical hair engagement element (or “styling arm”). The absence of such an auxiliary arm facilitates the use of the hairdressing appliance 1, by limiting the number of actions or manipulations necessary to carry out a hairdressing operation. It also makes the use of the hairdressing appliance 1 more comfortable and safer, by making it possible to avoid hair tangling around the auxiliary arm which could prove inconvenient for the proper performance of the intended hairdressing operation or even painful for the user, or even pinching of a finger or an ear between the auxiliary arm and the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4. Furthermore, the absence of such an auxiliary arm allows for a simpler, more robust and less expensive design and manufacture of the hairdressing appliance 1.

[0026] The apparatus 1 according to the invention further comprises: - a device for detecting a direction of forced rotation SRFI, SRF2 of the rotating part 16 under the effect of a mechanical force exerted by the hair C against said mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair, and - a device for automatically selecting a direction of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 from among said first and second directions of rotation SRI, SR2 as a function of the direction of forced rotation SRFI, SRF2 detected by said detection device.

[0027] Said detection device is therefore a device designed and configured to detect a direction in which the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 is forced to rotate, along its axis A of rotation, under the effect of a resistive mechanical force, of friction, resulting from the interaction between the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair C and said hair C, typically during a movement of the styling head 4 relative to the hair C. By “forced rotation”, here is advantageously meant a rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4, while the electric drive module 17 is stopped (electric drive module 17 not electrically powered) and therefore does not positively drive said rotating part 16 in rotation.

[0028] In return, the device for automatically selecting a direction of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 is therefore a device designed and configured to place the appliance 1 in a particular state making it capable of operating either according to a first electrical operating mode corresponding to a rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 according to its first direction of rotation SRI, or according to a second electrical operating mode corresponding to a rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 according to its second direction of rotation S2, depending on the direction of forced rotation SRFI, SRF2 (OR “forced rotation direction SRFI, SRF2”, or even “forced direction SRFI, SRF2”) detected by said detection device.In other words, the automatic selection device is therefore designed and configured to automatically select, from the two possible opposite directions of rotation SRI, SR2, the direction of rotation in which the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 is actually rotated when the appliance 1 is in operation, or at the very least in which the rotating part 16 is authorized to be rotated, depending on the direction of forced rotation SRFI, SRF2 detected by the detection device.Typically, the automatic selection device thus automatically selects the first direction of rotation SRI when the detection device detects a forced rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 in a first forced direction SRFI (first forced rotation direction SRFI) and, conversely, automatically selects the second direction of rotation SR2 when the detection device detects a forced rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 in a second forced direction SRF2 (second forced rotation direction SRF2), opposite to said first forced direction SRFI. However, the automatic rotation direction selection device is not necessarily designed and configured, as such, to actually rotate the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 in the first or second direction of rotation SRI, SR2 selected automatically. In other words. terms, the automatic selection device operates an automatic preselection of the first or second direction of rotation SRI, SR2, without necessarily actually triggering a corresponding rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4. As will be specified later, it is preferable that the actual corresponding rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 can be triggered separately by the user (who will then not have to worry about selecting the direction of this rotation).

[0029] Thus, the invention is based on the general principle of detecting a direction of forced rotation SRFI, SRF2 of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 along said axis A of rotation under the effect of a mechanical force, resulting from the interaction between the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair C and said hair C, and tending to cause a forced rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 along said axis A of rotation, to automatically select the direction in which the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 will be rotated by the electric drive module 17.

[0030] Such a design makes the use of the appliance 1 according to the invention particularly simple and intuitive, in particular for a user without any particular knowledge of hairdressing, insofar as this design allows automatic adaptation of the direction of rotation SRI, SR2 of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 of the appliance 1 in response to a simple gesture of use of the appliance 1 on and against the hair C, without the user needing to have visual contact with the appliance 1, and with, in addition, a particularly limited risk (if not totally avoided) of untimely selection of one or other of the directions of rotation SRI, SR2 of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 of the appliance 1.The fact of detecting a direction of forced rotation of the rotating part 16 of the blowing head 4 carrying the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair C, and not of detecting a possible movement of another part of the hairdressing appliance 1 which would be distinct from said rotating part 16, allows a particularly simple and effective detection of an interaction of the hairdressing appliance 1 with the hair C to preselect the direction of rotation in which the rotating part 16 must be rotated, even when the interaction of the hairdressing appliance 1 with the hair C results from a more complex movement than a simple movement of the appliance 1 along the hair.

[0031] Thus, when the electric drive module 17 is stopped, and when the user brings into contact with his hair C (or with the hair of a third person) the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair C of the styling head 4 of the appliance 1, by placing the styling head 4 between the hair C and the scalp, and exerts a movement of displacement of the styling head 4 in contact with the hair C on the right side of the face / head of the user (or of the third person), and from top to bottom (i.e. from the roots of the hair to their tips, as illustrated by a thin arrow in figure 15(a)), the interaction between the hair C and the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair tends to forcefully rotate the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 in the corresponding first direction of forced rotation SRFI (figures 8(a) and 9(a), and figure 15(a)).This forced rotation is detected by said detection device, which causes the automatic selection device to automatically select the first direction of rotation SRI of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4, i.e., the automatic selection of a first predefined electrical operating mode corresponding to a rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 according to its first direction of rotation SRI. Preferably, the first direction of rotation SRI is predefined as being opposite to said first forced direction of rotation SRFI. Thus, when the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 is actually rotated, the rotating part 16 then rotates according to the first direction of rotation SRI thus selected (figure 15(b)) and can cause a corresponding winding of the hair around the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4.

[0032] Conversely, when the electric drive module 17 is stopped, and when the user brings the styling head 4 of the appliance 1 into contact with his hair C (or with the hair of a third person), by placing the styling head 4 between the hair C and the scalp, and exerts a movement of displacement of the styling head 4 in contact with the hair on the left side of the face / head of the user (or of the third person), and from top to bottom (i.e. from the roots of the hair to their tips, as illustrated by a thin arrow in Figure 16(a)), the interaction between the hair C and the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair tends to forcefully rotate the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 in the corresponding second direction of forced rotation SRF2, opposite to said first direction of forced rotation SRFI (Figures 8(c) and 9(c), and Figure 16(a)). This forced rotation is detected by said detection device, which causes the automatic selection device to automatically select the second direction of rotation SR2 of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4, i.e. the automatic selection of a second predefined electrical operating mode corresponding to a rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 according to its second direction of rotation SR2. Preferably, the second direction of rotation SR2 is predefined as being opposite to said second forced direction of rotation SRF2. The rotating part 16 can then be rotated according to the second direction of rotation SR2 thus selected (figure 16(b)) and can cause a corresponding winding of the hair C around the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4.

[0033] Depending on the styling habits and / or the desired hairstyling effect, it is also possible to arrange the styling head 4 of the appliance 1 not between the hair C and the scalp, as described above, but on the outside of the hair C, as illustrated as an example in Figures 17 and 18. In this case, when the user exerts a pulling force from the top downwards (i.e. from the roots of the hair C towards their tips, as illustrated by a thin arrow in Figures 17(a) and 18(a)), the interaction between the hair C and the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair C tends to forcefully rotate the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4. - either in the first direction of forced rotation SRFI (figures 8(a) and 9(a), and figure 17(a)), in which case this forced rotation is detected by the detection device, which results in the automatic selection, by the automatic selection device, of the first direction of rotation SRI of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 (figure 17(b)), - either in the second direction of forced rotation SRF2 (figures 8(c) and 9(c), and figure 18), in which case this forced rotation is detected by the detection device, which results in the automatic selection, by the automatic selection device, of the second direction of rotation SR2 of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 (figure 18(b)).

[0034] The following table (Table 1) summarizes the different possible operations described above of the hairdressing appliance 1, depending on the positioning of the styling head 4 of the latter in relation to the hair C (figures 15 to 18). We then understand the whole point of the invention, which makes it possible to automatically select the appropriate direction of rotation SRI, SR2 depending on the position of the styling head 4 of the hairdressing appliance 1, and this without the user having to wonder about the direction of rotation that should be selected. This thus makes it possible to propose a hairdressing appliance 1 that is particularly intuitive, simple to use, well-suited for novices (without any particular knowledge in the field of hairdressing) and limiting the risks of hair tangling. Table 1

[0035] Thus, the automatic selection of the direction of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 can therefore be done in a particularly simple, natural and intuitive manner, for example by a simple rectilinear movement of the appliance 1, or even by simply letting the hairdressing appliance 1 fall, move, under its own weight, the styling head 4 of the latter being brought into contact with the hair C, without therefore requiring in particular a rotational movement of the wrist on the part of the user. Furthermore, as introduced above, the user does not have to think about the direction of rotation to be given to the rotating part 16 depending on the positioning of the styling head 4 relative to his hair C, since the appliance 1 systematically selects by itself, and therefore automatically and transparently for the user, the appropriate direction of rotation SRI, SR2 of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4. styling 4, which advantageously helps prevent the risk of hair knotting / tangling, while ensuring the best possible styling result.

[0036] In order to ensure such detection of the direction of forced rotation SRFI, SRF2 of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4, said detection device preferably comprises: - the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4, which is pivotally mounted relative to the main body 2 in a predetermined angular range along said rotation axis A so that, when the electric drive module 17 is stopped (i.e. when the electric drive module 17 is not electrically powered), the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4 remains capable of pivoting in said predetermined angular range, in the first direction of forced rotation SRFI towards a first angular position and in the second direction of forced rotation SRF2 towards a second opposite angular position, under the effect of said mechanical force exerted by the hair C against the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair C (in other words, this predetermined angular range defines a functional clearance necessary to detect the direction of forced rotation SRFI, SRF2), and - at least one sensor 20A, 20B for detecting the reaching of each of said first and second angular positions by said rotating part 16.

[0037] Thus, when the electric drive module 17 is stopped and therefore does not rotate the rotating part 16, the mechanical force exerted by the hair against the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair C during a movement of the styling head 4 relative to the hair causes a “forced” pivoting (forced rotation) of the rotating part 16 about its axis A of rotation in said predetermined angular range, in one or the other of the first and second directions of forced rotation SRFI, SRF2 depending on the direction and direction of movement of the styling head 4 relative to the hair C. The detection device may comprise either a single sensor for detecting the reaching of each of said first and second angular positions, or preferably two sensors 20A, 20B for each respectively detecting the reaching of one and the other of said first and second angular positions.

[0038] In return, said device for automatically selecting the direction of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 advantageously comprises an electrical or electronic control circuit (hereinafter “control circuit”) which is connected to the electrical drive module 17, to authorize (but not necessarily to actually control) rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 by the electrical drive module 17. - in the first direction of rotation SRI when the reaching of the first angular position is detected, that is to say when the (or one of the) sensor(s) detects that the rotating part 16 occupies said first angular position, and, respectively, - in the second direction of rotation SR2 when the reaching of the second angular position is detected, that is to say when the (or another of the) sensors 20A, 20B detects that the rotating part 16 occupies said second angular position.

[0039] The control circuit may be connected to the sensor(s) 20A, 20B or include said sensor(s) 20A, 20B.

[0040] Conversely, the control circuit is advantageously designed and configured to prohibit, inhibit, rotation of the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4 by the electric drive module 17. - in the second direction of rotation S 2 when the reaching of the first angular position is detected and, symmetrically, and - in the first direction of rotation SRI when reaching the second angular position is detected.

[0041] Advantageously, said predetermined angular range is chosen, that is to say fixed by design of the apparatus 1, with an amplitude of between 1° and 15°, preferably between 5° and 15°, and for example equal to 10°. In other words, the apparatus 1 is designed and configured so that the passage of the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4 from the first angular position (figure 9(a) for example) to the second angular position (figure 9(c) for example), and vice versa from the second angular position to the first angular position, corresponds to a pivoting of the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4 by an angle of between 1° and 15°, preferably between 5° and 15°, and for example equal to 10°, along the axis A of rotation of said rotating part 16. Such an amplitude (angular) in fact advantageously allows particularly easy and comfortable detection, based on a slight forced rotation of the rotating part 16 by interaction between the hair and the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair during a movement of the styling head 4 relative to the hair, and therefore without the user needing to perform a particularly broad brushing gesture and / or pull particularly hard on the hair, nor to modify his intuitive and natural styling movement.

[0042] Advantageously, said at least one sensor 20A, 20B, or each of said sensors 20A, 20B in the case of a plurality of sensors, is arranged inside the styling head 4 of the appliance 1. This contributes in particular to limiting the size of the main body 2, and in particular of the portion of the latter which forms the handle 3, so as to make it easier for the user to hold the appliance 1. This also makes it possible to simplify and make more reliable the electrical design of the appliance 1 when the electric drive module 17 is also arranged inside the styling head 4, in particular in the case where the appliance 1 comprises an articulation system 15 of the styling head 4 relative to the main body 2.

[0043] Preferably, as in the example illustrated in the figures, the detection device comprises: - two sensors 20A, 20B, as previously envisaged, namely a first sensor 20A and a second sensor 20B for each respectively detecting the reaching of one and the other of said first and second angular positions of the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4, said first and second sensors 20A, 20B being more specifically switches 21 A, 21 B, and - a first actuating member 22A, 22A' which cooperates with a first of said switches 21 A, 21 B when the first angular position is reached (figure 8(a) for example), to thereby cause a change in the switching state of said first switch 21 A (or "first detection switch"), and a second actuating member 22B, 22B' which cooperates with a second of said switches 21 A, 21 B when the second ... reached (figure 8(c) for example), to thus respectively cause a change in the switching state of said second switch 21 B (or “second detection switch”).

[0044] Advantageously, the first actuating member 22A, 22A' does not cooperate with the first switch 21A when the second angular position is reached (figure 8(c) for example), and the second actuating member 22B, 22B' does not cooperate with the second switch 21B when the first angular position is reached (figure 8(a) for example).

[0045] By "switch" is here advantageously meant a device intended to cut, restore, reverse the direction of the electric current, or even to distribute said electric current at will in different circuits. Preferably, as illustrated in the figures, the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B are electromechanical switches. An electromechanical switch is a switch which makes it possible to cut, establish or direct an electric current between at least two contact terminals under the effect of an external mechanical action. It will be noted here that an electromechanical switch is a particular electromechanical switch, which makes it possible to alternately cut or establish an electric current between two contact terminals.Advantageously, the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B are monostable electromechanical switches, i.e. with momentary mechanical contact, such as microswitches (miniature push-button switches, or "microswitches" in English) for example. As such, said first and second electromechanical switches 21 A, 21 B each comprise a housing, at least two contact terminals, a movable internal mechanical contact mounted on a spring between a closed contact position and an open contact position, and a movable button 23A, 23B which projects from the housing and which is movable relative to the latter to cause a movement of the internal mechanical contact between said closed contact position and said open contact position and vice versa, when an external mechanical force is applied to said button 23A, 23B against the return force of the spring.Even more advantageously, as in the example illustrated in the figures, said first and second switches 21 A, 21 B are monostable electromechanical “inverter” switches. They thus comprise three contact terminals, and the internal mechanical contact is designed and configured to ensure. alternatively, under the effect of a movement of the button 23A, 23B, an electrical contact between a first of the contact terminals called "common" and a second contact terminal called "normally open" or an electrical contact between said "common" contact terminal and a third contact terminal called "normally closed". In return, the first and second actuating members 22A, 22B; 22A', 22B' may for example each be formed of a protuberance (or "positive relief") intended to cooperate mechanically each with one of the electromechanical switches 21 A, 21 B, by interaction with the button 23A, 23B of the latter, to cause a change in the switching state of the electromechanical switches 21 A, 21 B according to the angular position which is reached, as in the example illustrated in the figures.In other words, the first and second actuating members 22A, 22B; 22A', 22B' then advantageously form a first protuberance, which cooperates with the button 23A of the first switch 21A when the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4 occupies said first angular position (figure 8(a)), and a second protuberance, which cooperates respectively with the button 23B of the second switch 21B when the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4 occupies said second angular position (figure 8(c)).

[0046] Alternatively, the first and second switches may be first and second electromagnetic switches (or "Flexible Reed Switches (FRS)"), and the first and second actuating members may, for example, each be formed by a permanent magnet. The use of such electromechanical or electromagnetic switches advantageously contributes to great simplicity and low design and manufacturing costs of the apparatus 1. The first and second sensors 20A, 20B thus being advantageously components providing an electrical connection function, it is therefore possible to transmit electrical power directly to the electric geared motor 18 of the electric drive module 17 via the first and second sensors 20A, 20B, without therefore having to use an additional relay, for example, between the first and second sensors 20A, 20B and the electric geared motor 18.The first and second sensors 20A, 20B can thus be advantageously included in the electrical or electronic control circuit, mentioned above. The use of switches 21 A, 21 B of the monostable electromechanical “inverter” switch type, as envisaged above, makes it possible to further simplify the design. mechanical as well as the electrical design of the device 1, and to reduce manufacturing costs.

[0047] Obviously, other types of sensors can alternatively be considered, although less preferentially. For example, the first and second sensors could be optical fork sensors (“optosensors” or “optoswitches”), one arm of the fork of which carries an optical transmitter and another arm of the fork of which carries an optical receiver. The first and second actuating members could then typically take the form of occulting elements which are respectively positioned between the arms of the optical fork sensors to selectively cut off a detection light beam emitted by the optical transmitter in the direction of the optical receiver.In this case, the control circuit of the automatic selection device for the electrical operating mode may then possibly comprise, for example, an “H” transistor bridge controlled at the input by each of the optical fork sensors, or two “H” transistor bridges, each controlled at the input by one of the optical fork sensors.

[0048] Preferably, the first and second actuating members 22A, 22B; 22A', 22B' are arranged inside the styling head 4 of the appliance 1, in particular in the preferred case where said first and second switches 21A, 21B (first and second sensors 20A, 20B) are themselves arranged inside the styling head 4, in the example illustrated in the figures. This advantageously makes it possible to simplify the mechanical design of the appliance 1.

[0049] According to a preferred variant implemented in the example illustrated in the figures, the electric drive module 17 is arranged inside the styling head 4 and comprises a motor housing 24 which is mounted to pivot relative to the main body 2 in said predetermined angular range along the axis A of rotation of the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4. Typically constituting an envelope ("casing") of the electric geared motor 18 of the electric drive module 17, the motor housing 24 is thus advantageously connected immobile to a stator of the electric geared motor 18. The electric drive module 17 also comprises an output shaft 19 to which, as already mentioned previously, said rotary part 16 is connected so that a rotation of the output shaft 19 causes a joint rotation of said rotary part 16. In this variant, the output shaft 19 is advantageously mounted to be movable in rotation along the axis A of rotation of the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4. In addition, the electric drive module 17 is designed and configured in such a way that the output shaft 19 is substantially immobilized in rotation relative to the motor housing 24 when the electric drive module 17 is stopped (i.e. not electrically powered), so that a pivoting of the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4 in said predetermined angular range (under the effect of forced rotation) causes a corresponding pivoting of the motor housing 24 along the axis A of rotation of said rotary part 16 of the styling head 4.The electric drive module 17 is therefore advantageously designed and configured so as to oppose a force of forced rotation of the output shaft 19 when the electric drive module 17 is stopped. For example, the output shaft 19 may constitute an output shaft of the reducer of the electric geared motor 18, and its immobilization in rotation may then advantageously result from friction forces generated by gears of the reducer of the electric geared motor 18 which oppose a free rotation of the output shaft 19 when the electric drive module 17 is stopped. In this respect, the electric drive module 17 may typically comprise a case 25, 25', for example cylindrical, which is fixed immobile relative to the main body 2 of the apparatus 1, and within which said motor housing 24 is arranged to pivot.For example, the case 25, 25' may have a base 26, 26' forming a male imprint designed and configured to cooperate without the possibility of relative rotation with a corresponding female imprint carried by the main body 2 of the device 1. The case 25, 25' may be provided within at least one pair of opposite stops 27A, 27B, 27A', 27B' which mechanically delimit the authorized pivoting range (predetermined angular range) of the motor housing 24 along said axis A of rotation.

[0050] In this preferred variant, said first and second switches 21 A, 21 B are preferably fixed immobile in rotation relative to said motor housing 24, while said first and second actuating members 22A, 22B; 22A', 22B' are preferably arranged immobile in rotation relative to the axis A of rotation of said rotary part 16 of the styling head 4. Unlike the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B, the first and second actuating members 22A, 22B; 22A', 22B' are therefore not mounted in rotation according to the axis A of rotation of the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4. This makes it possible to simplify and make more reliable the electrical design of the appliance 1, in particular when the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B are themselves advantageously arranged inside the styling head 4. In this respect, the electrical drive module 17 can advantageously comprise a switch support 28, 28', to which the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B are fixed, which is secured to the motor housing 24, 24' without the possibility of relative rotation, for example by means of a motor cradle 29, 29' in which the motor housing 24, 24' is received without the possibility of relative rotation. The switch support 28, 28' and the motor cradle 29, 29' can form a single piece, or on the contrary form two separate pieces secured to each other.Being mounted to pivot about said axis A of rotation inside the case 25, 25', the motor cradle 29, 29' then advantageously forms an oscillating cradle secured to the motor housing 24, 24' and the switch support 28, 28' pivoting in said predetermined angular range. Advantageously, the motor cradle 29, 29' and / or the switch support 28, 28' comprises at least one pair of stops 27A, 27B, 27A, 27B', which are arranged and configured to cooperate respectively with a corresponding stop of the pair of stops 30A, 30B, 30A', 30B' with which the case 25, 25' is provided to mechanically delimit the amplitude of said predetermined angular range.

[0051] According to a design sub-variant illustrated as an example in Figures 5 to 9, the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B are monostable electromechanical switches as envisaged above, advantageously identical, and said first and second switches 21 A, 21 B and said first and second actuating members 22A, 22B are arranged to allow actuation of each of the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B in an actuation direction which is orthogonal to the axis A of rotation of the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4 (“radial” arrangement).According to this sub-variant, the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B and the first and second actuating members 22A, 22B are advantageously arranged so that the actuation of the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B, by the first and second actuating members 22A, 22B respectively, is carried out by a mechanical force which results from the interaction between the first and second actuating members 22A, 22B and the buttons 23A, 23B of the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B, and which is exerted. in a direction inscribed in a plane orthogonal to the axis A of rotation of the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4. Such an arrangement offers in particular the advantage of limited axial size. Advantageously, the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B can be arranged one above the other along the axis A of rotation of the rotary part 16, and for example in a “head-to-tail” assembly, with their respective button 23A, 23B oriented opposite said axis A of rotation. The first and second actuating members 22A, 22B can then form first and second protrusions, as already mentioned previously, which can advantageously be combined so as to form a single protrusion, and which are arranged projecting from an internal surface of the case 25, facing the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B.

[0052] According to another design sub-variant illustrated as an example in Figures 10 to 13, the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B are monostable electromechanical switches as envisaged above, advantageously identical, and said first and second switches 21 A, 21 B and said first and second actuating members 22A', 22B' are arranged to allow actuation of each of the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B in an actuation direction which is parallel to the axis A of rotation of the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4 ("axial" arrangement).According to this sub-variant, the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B and the first and second actuating members 22A', 22B' are thus advantageously arranged so that the actuation of the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B, respectively by the first and second actuating members 22A', 22B', is carried out by a mechanical force which results from the interaction between the first and second actuating members 22'A, 22B' and the buttons 23A, 23B of the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B, and which is exerted in a direction inscribed in a plane parallel to the axis A of rotation of the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4.

[0053] Advantageously, as illustrated in particular in Figures 10, 12 and 13, the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B can be arranged at the same altitude along the axis A of rotation of the rotary part 16, preferably on either side of said axis A of rotation. Such an alternative arrangement offers in particular the advantage of limited radial size. It also advantageously allows less mechanical stress on the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B when pivoting the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 from one to the other of said first and second angular positions, thereby increasing the reliability and service life of the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B.

[0054] It is particularly advantageous to also provide, in this sub-variant: - that the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B are arranged to move in rectilinear translation along the axis A of rotation of the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4, and - that the styling head 4 comprises an elastic return member 31, such as for example a compression spring, designed and configured to exert an automatic axial bringing together force of the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B in the direction of a surface carrying said first and second actuating members 22A', 22B'.

[0055] This particularly advantageous configuration makes it possible to automatically compensate for any dimensional manufacturing tolerances of the parts of the device 1. In particular, this configuration makes it possible to automatically compensate for any axial play that the button 23A, 23B of the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B may have due to more or less significant dimensional manufacturing tolerances. This ensures particularly reliable and repeatable operation of the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B, including when using conventional switches that are readily available commercially. Furthermore, when the electric drive module 17 and the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B are advantageously all arranged inside the styling head 4, this makes it possible to facilitate and make more reliable the electrical wiring of the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B and the electric geared motor 18.

[0056] In this respect, as illustrated in figures 10 to 13, the switch support 28', to which the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B are fixed, can be secured to the motor housing 24' without the possibility of relative rotation, by means of a motor cradle 29' in which the motor housing 24 is received mobile with pure sliding (no relative rotation) in a direction parallel to, and preferably coincident with, the axis A of rotation of the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4. As described above, said motor cradle 24 is itself mounted to pivot along said axis A of rotation inside the case 25', and advantageously forms an oscillating cradle secured to the motor housing 24 and the support 28' of pivoting switches in said predetermined angular range. The buttons 23A, 23B of the first and second switches 21A, 21B may advantageously be oriented in the direction of and opposite a bottom of the case 25' which defines said surface carrying said first and second actuating members 22A', 22B'. The latter can advantageously form two protuberances, such as domes of material, distinct and distant from each other which are arranged projecting from said surface.The elastic member 31, such as for example a compression spring, can be arranged to bear against an internal surface of a cover 32' of the case 25' and a corresponding bearing surface defined by the motor cradle 29', to elastically push the motor cradle 29' towards the bottom of the case 25' and thus to exert an automatic axial bringing together force of the first and second switches 21A, 21B towards the protuberances arranged on the surface of the bottom of the case 25'.

[0057] Preferably, the apparatus 1 comprises an automatic return member 33, 33' for automatically returning the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 to a third angular position which is intermediate to said first and second angular positions when said mechanical force exerted by the hair ceases (figures 8(b) and 9(b) for example). Thus, in the absence of force exerted by interaction between the hair C of the user and the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair, the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 advantageously returns automatically by itself, from the first angular position or from the second angular position, to said third intermediate angular position, called the rest position.The force and the amplitude of forced rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 which are necessary for the detection of said forced rotation by reaching one or other of said first and second angular positions are thus advantageously reduced, which further improves the ease and comfort of use of the appliance 1. More preferably still, the third angular position is a position angularly median to the first and second angular positions within said predetermined angular range. The amplitude of pivoting of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4. between the first and third angular positions is then identical to the pivoting amplitude of said rotary part 16 between the second and third angular positions.

[0058] Preferably, the automatic return member 33, 33' is an elastic automatic return member. For example, the automatic return member 33 may be a leaf spring, as in the particular design illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 9, which is typically fixed at its center to the switch support 28 or to the motor cradle 29 of the electric drive module 17, and two opposite free ends of which bear against corresponding surfaces provided inside the case 25 of the electric drive module 17. Alternatively, as in the other particular design illustrated in FIGS. 10 to 13, the automatic return member 33' may be a "U"-shaped spring (or "hairpin" spring), one belly of the "U" of which is fixed immovably to the case 25', and each of the legs of the "U" of which is arranged to bear against ribs of the motor cradle 29'.Obviously, other suitable conformations, configurations and arrangements of the automatic return member 33, 33' can be envisaged. By means of suitable selection and dimensioning of the elastic automatic return member 33, 33' (length, stiffness constant, etc.), it is advantageously possible to precisely adjust, when designing the appliance 1, the forced rotation force which will be necessary for the user to move the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 from the third angular position to one or other of the first and second angular positions.In this way, it is therefore possible to define a minimum value of the force required for forced rotation which is sufficiently low to prevent the user from having to pull too hard on the hair, which could prove painful, while being sufficiently high to nevertheless avoid excessive detection sensitivity, which could lead to an involuntary modification of the direction of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4. In practice, the definition of this minimum force value by means of a choice and a dimensioning of the elastic automatic return member 33, 33' may depend on the general dimensioning of the appliance 1 and its styling head 4, as well as the use of possible friction forces likely to oppose the pivoting of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 in the predetermined angular range.

[0059] Advantageously, the apparatus 1 (and more specifically said electrical or electronic control circuit of the electric drive module 17) is designed and configured to inhibit, that is to say to prohibit, the operation of the electric drive module 17 in the absence of detection, by said at least one sensor 20A, 20B (and therefore advantageously by said first and second switches 21 A, 21 B), of the reaching of one or other of said first and second angular positions. Thus, in the absence of mechanical force exerted by the hair against the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair and detected by the detection device, said control circuit interrupts the electrical power supply to the electric drive module 17 so that the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 cannot therefore be rotated by the electric drive module 17 in one or other of said directions of rotation.This contributes to safer, more efficient and more economical use of the device 1 .

[0060] Advantageously, as in the example illustrated in the figures, the apparatus 1 may comprise a manual control member 34 for controlling the (effective) rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 in the direction of rotation automatically selected by the automatic selection device (manual control member 34 for “normal” rotation), and therefore preferentially, in that of said first and second directions of rotation SRI, SR2 which is automatically selected by said automatic selection device. Thus, while the automatic selection device can select the direction of rotation SRI, SR2 in which the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 is allowed to rotate, the effective rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 can therefore be independently inhibited / triggered by the user via said manual control member 34.Thus, the function of selecting the direction of rotation SRI, SR2 is therefore advantageously independent of the function of actually rotating the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 in the selected direction of rotation SRI, SR2. As explained previously, the user therefore does not have to worry about the actual direction of rotation. Indeed, the appropriate direction of rotation SRI, SR2 being automatically selected by the automatic selection device, the user only has to act manually against the manual control member 34, in a very simple manner and even without visual control on said manual control member 34, so that the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 then starts. actually rotating in the appropriate direction of rotation SRI, SR2 selected. Typically, the manual control member 34 for normal rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 may comprise an electrical switch 35 (or “normal rotation switch”) connected to a manual actuation button 36 arranged at the handle 3 of the appliance 1 for example, and electrically connected to the geared motor 18 of the electric drive module 17 driving the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 in rotation, as well as to the device for automatic selection of the direction of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 of the hairdressing appliance 1.

[0061] Alternatively, or preferably in a complementary manner as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the hairdressing appliance 1 may advantageously comprise a (further) manual control member 37 for controlling a rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4, around said axis A of rotation, in a direction of rotation SRI, SR2 opposite to the direction of rotation SRI, SR2 automatically selected by the automatic selection device. Thus, a manual action on the part of the user against said (further) manual control member 37 may advantageously trigger a rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 in said second direction of rotation SR2 when said first direction of rotation SRI has been automatically selected, and vice versa.The hairdressing appliance 1 is therefore advantageously designed and configured so that an actuation of said (other) manual control member 37 causes a reversal of selection of the direction of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 (manual control member 37 for “reverse” rotation). Such an additional technical characteristic advantageously gives the appliance 1 a hair “detangling” function, which is particularly practical for the user in the case where the rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 in an automatically selected direction of rotation inadvertently causes the hair to become tangled around said rotating part 16 and / or in the mechanical hair engagement element 7 C carried by the latter.Typically, the manual control member 37 for reverse rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 may comprise a (further) electrical switch 38 (or "reverse rotation switch") connected to a (further) manual actuation button 39, arranged for example at the handle 3 of the appliance 1 so as to be accessible with a finger of the hand. the user who holds the appliance by the handle 3, and electrically connected to the electric drive module 17 and to the device for automatically selecting the direction of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 of the hairdressing appliance 1.

[0062] In the preferred case where, as illustrated in the figures, the apparatus 1 advantageously comprises the two manual control members 34, 37 mentioned above, the latter are advantageously designed and configured so as not to be able to be actuated simultaneously by the user. For example, as illustrated by example in Figures 1 to 5, the respective manual actuation buttons 36, 39 of the manual control members 34, 37 may comprise a rigid mechanical part common to said manual actuation buttons 36, 39 and mounted in a rocker manner to prevent simultaneous pressing of said manual actuation buttons 36, 39 under the effect of pressure exerted on them by a finger of the user, and therefore prevent joint manual actuation of the two manual control members 34, 37.

[0063] In order to further explain the implementation of some of the functional characteristics described above, Figure 14 illustrates an example of an electrical design diagram of the device 1 illustrated in the figures. This electrical design has the particular advantage of being particularly simple, robust and inexpensive to implement. The device 1 is here intended to be electrically powered from the mains (power supply from the electrical distribution network, at an alternating voltage of 220-240 Vac, 50-60 Hz). However, the electric geared motor 18, as well as the electric motor 10 of the blower module 8, are here advantageously direct current electric motors. In this respect, diode bridges 40, 41 are provided to ensure full-wave rectification to electrically power each of the electric motors 10, 18 with direct current.These diode bridges 40, 41 could be omitted in the case where the apparatus 1 is intended to be electrically powered by a direct current source. The heating element 13 of the apparatus 1 comprises a plurality of electrical resistors 14A-14E. The electric motor 10 of the blower module 8 and the electric geared motor 18 are respectively electrically powered, via their respective diode bridge 40, 41, by bypassing the power supply circuit of the electrical resistors 14A-14E.

[0064] In this example, the general switch 6 of the device is a three-position selector, which is connected to the electrical resistors 14A-14E and to the diode bridges 40, 41 which supply the electric motor 10 of the blower module s and the electric geared motor 18 of the electric drive module 13 of the rotary part 16 of the styling head 4. The switch 35 for normal rotation and the switch 38 for reverse rotation are here monostable electromechanical “inverter” switches, advantageously conforming to the general description of such switches which was given previously. Advantageously included in the control circuit of the electric drive module 17, the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B (detection switches) are also monostable electromechanical “inverter” switches of which: - the respective “common” terminals are each electrically connected to one of the power supply pins of the geared motor 18; - the “normally open” terminals are electrically connected on the one hand to each other, and on the other hand to a “common” terminal of the normal rotation switch 35; - the “normally closed” terminals are electrically connected on the one hand to each other, and on the other hand to a “common” terminal of the reverse rotation switch 38.

[0065] Furthermore, the respective “normally closed” terminals of the normal rotation switch 35 and the reverse rotation switch 38 are electrically connected to a first output of the power diode bridge 41 of the electric gear motor 18. The “normally open” terminals of the normal rotation switch 35 and the reverse rotation switch 38 are electrically connected to a second output of the power diode bridge 41 of the electric gear motor 18.

[0066] In the diagram of Figure 14, the illustrated switching state of the normal rotation switch 35 corresponds to an interruption of the power supply to the control circuit of the electric drive module 17 (unactuated state). The illustrated switching state of the reverse rotation switch 38 corresponds to a state in which the latter does not reverse the selected direction of rotation (unactuated state). The illustrated switching state of the first and second detection switches 21A, 22B corresponds to an absence of detection of forced rotation (unactuated state), i.e. therefore to an angular position of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 which is neither said first angular position nor said second angular position, but which preferably corresponds to said third angular position intermediate to the latter. In this switching state, no direction of rotation is selected, and the control circuit of the electric drive module 17 inhibits the operation of the geared motor 18 of the electric drive module 17.

[0067] The table (Table 2) below summarizes in a synthetic manner, in connection with the electrical diagram of Figure 14, the automatically selected direction of rotation and the effective direction of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4, as a function of the forced direction of rotation of the rotating part 16 under the effect of the interaction between the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair and said hair, which is detected by the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B (first and second detection switches), and according to the switching state of the normal rotation switch 35 and the reverse rotation switch 36. It is assumed here that the general switch 6 is in a switching state in which at least the power diode bridge 41 of the electric gear motor 18 is actually electrically powered. Table 2

[0068] Obviously, other suitable electrical or electronic designs may be considered for the desired purposes, depending in particular on the choice of general electrical power supply for the device (direct or alternating current), the choice of the sensor(s) 20A, 20B (number, type, etc.), the choice of the electric gear motor 18 (direct or alternating current), etc. POSSIBILITY OF INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION

[0069] The invention finds its industrial application in the design and manufacture of hairdressing appliances, for example for domestic use, and more specifically portable hairdressing appliances designed to assist in shaping hair.

Claims

CLAIMS Portable electric hairdressing appliance (1) comprising a main body (2) including a handle (3) for manual gripping, a styling head (4) connected to said main body (2) and comprising a rotating part (16) which is provided with a mechanical engagement element (7) for the hair (C) intended to come into contact with the hair (C) to help shape said hair (C), and an electric drive module (17) for driving said rotating part (16) in rotation about an axis (A) of rotation relative to the main body (2) alternately in a first direction of rotation (SRI) and in a second opposite direction of rotation (SR2), the appliance (1) being characterized in that it comprises a device for detecting a direction of forced rotation (SRFI, SRF2) of the rotating part (16) under the effect of a mechanical force exerted by the hair (C) against said mechanical engagement element (7) of the hair,and a device for automatically selecting a direction of rotation of the rotating part (16) of the styling head (4) from among said first and second directions of rotation (SRI, SR2) as a function of the forced rotation direction (SRFI, SRF2) detected. Apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that it comprises a manual control member (34) for controlling the rotation of the rotating part (16) of the styling head (4) in the direction of rotation (SRI, SR2) automatically selected by said automatic selection device. Apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a manual control member (37) for controlling a rotation of the rotating part (16) of the styling head (4) in a direction of rotation (SRI, SR2) opposite to the direction of rotation (SRI,SR2) automatically selected by said automatic selection device. Apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that:, - said detection device comprises o said rotatable part (16) of the styling head (4), which is pivotally mounted relative to the main body (2) in an angular range predetermined along said axis (A) of rotation so that, when the electric drive module (17) is stopped, the rotating part (16) of the styling head (4) remains able to pivot in said predetermined angular range, in said first forced rotation direction (SRFI) towards a first angular position and in said second forced rotation direction (SRF2) towards a second opposite angular position, under the effect of said mechanical force exerted by the hair (C) against the mechanical engagement element (7) of the hair (C), and o at least one sensor (20A, 20B) for detecting the reaching of each of said first and second angular positions, - said device for automatically selecting the direction of rotation of the rotating part (16) of the styling head (4) comprising an electrical or electronic control circuit which is connected to the electrical drive module (17) to authorize rotation of the rotating part (16) of the styling head (4) in the first direction of rotation (SRI) when reaching the first angular position is detected and in the second direction of rotation (SR2) when reaching the second angular position is detected. Apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said predetermined angular range has an amplitude of between 1° and 15°, preferably between 5° and 15°, and for example equal to 10°.Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 4 and 5, characterized in that said apparatus (1) comprises an automatic return member (33, 33'), preferably elastic, for automatically returning the rotary part (16) of the styling head (4) to a third angular position which is intermediate, and preferably median, to said first and second angular positions when said mechanical force exerted by the hair (C) ceases. Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that said electrical or electronic control circuit is designed and configured to inhibit the operation of the electric drive module (17) in the absence. detection by said at least one sensor (20A, 20B) of the reaching of one or other of said first and second angular positions. Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that said at least one sensor (20A, 20B) is arranged inside the styling head (4). Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 8, said detection device comprises - a first sensor (20A) and a second sensor (20B) for each respectively detecting the reaching of one and the other of said first and second angular positions, said first and second sensors (20A, 20B) being switches (21 A, 21 B), preferably electromechanical switches, and - a first actuating member (22A, 22A') which cooperates with a first of said switches (21 A, 21 B) when the first angular position is reached and a second actuating member (22B; 22B') which cooperates with a second of said switches (21 A, 21 B) when the second angular position is reached. Apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electric drive module (17) is arranged inside the styling head (4). Apparatus according to claims 9 and 10, characterized in that - the electric drive module (17) comprises a motor housing (24) which is mounted to pivot relative to the main body (2) in said predetermined angular range along the axis (A) of rotation of the rotary part (16) of the styling head (4), said electric drive module (17) comprising an output shaft (19) which is rotatable along the axis (A) of rotation of said rotary part (16), said rotary part (16) being connected to the output shaft (19) so that a rotation of the output shaft (19) causes a joint rotation of said rotary part (16), the shaft output (19) being rotationally immobilized relative to the motor housing (24, 24') when the electric drive module (17) is stopped, - said first and second switches (21 A, 21 B) being fixed immobile in rotation relative to said motor housing (24, 24'), said first and second actuating members (22A, 22B; 22A', 22B') being arranged immobile relative to the axis (A) of rotation of said rotary part (16). Apparatus (1) according to claims 10 and 11, characterized in that the first and second switches (21 A, 21 B) are monostable electromechanical switches, and preferably reversing monostable electromechanical switches. Apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said first and second switches (21 A, 21 B) and said first and second actuating members (22A, 22B) are arranged to allow actuation of each of the first and second switches (21 A, 21 B) in an actuation direction which is orthogonal to the axis (A) of rotation of the rotary part (16) of the styling head (4).Apparatus (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that said first and second switches (21 A, 21 B) and said first and second actuating members (22A', 22B') are arranged to allow actuation of each of the first and second switches (21 A, 21 B) in an actuation direction which is parallel to the axis (A) of rotation of the rotary part (16) of the styling head (4). Apparatus according to the preceding claim, characterized in that. - the first and second switches (21 A, 21 B) are arranged to move in rectilinear translation along the axis (A) of rotation of the rotary part (16) of the styling head (4), - said styling head (4) comprising an elastic return member for exerting an automatic axial bringing together force of the first and second switches (21 A, 21 B) in the direction of a surface carrying said first and second actuating members (22A', 22B').

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