Hair treatment device

Abstract

Hair treatment device. A device (1) for steaming hair, including a hairbrush, comprising: - a treatment sole (2) intended to come into contact with the hair during treatment; - a vaporization chamber (5) supplied with liquid water, where the water is transformed into steam; - at least one steam distribution chamber (6, 6a, 6b) for directing the steam onto the hair, separate from the vaporization chamber and in fluidic communication with the vaporization chamber; and a heating system (3) arranged between the treatment sole and the vaporization chamber and configured to heat the vaporization chamber to a temperature greater than or equal to the vaporization temperature of water and to heat at least a portion of the treatment sole. Figure for the abstract: Fig. 3

Description

Title of the invention: Hair treatment device

[0001] The present invention relates to a steam hair treatment device and the corresponding hair treatment method. Prior art

[0002] In the field of hairdressing, it is common to use hair treatment devices such as brushes, in particular devices allowing the emission of steam.

[0003] Applications CN105708099 and WO2017174035 describe hair straighteners comprising a first unit for heating a vaporization chamber and a second unit for heating treatment plates, separate from the first.

[0004] Application CN205866296 describes a heated and steam-generating brush. The brush heating system and the heating system for producing steam are separate.

[0005] Application JP2017077432 describes a hair iron comprising three separate heating units, namely one unit heating the vaporization chamber and two others heating the treatment plates.

[0006] Such arrangements using separate heating elements are often preferred because they allow independent control of the heating of the two elements.

[0007] Applications EP1967088 and EP2449911 describe hair irons in which the heating elements of the treatment plates also heat the vaporization chamber, the latter directly supplying the steam outlets.

[0008] Application WO2004002262 describes a curling iron comprising a heating block for heating both a porous element soaked in liquid and a plate for treating the hair. In this application, the liquid contained in the porous element evaporates in vaporization chambers on either side of the porous element, the vaporization chambers directly supplying steam outlets.

[0009] There remains a need to further improve devices for treating hair by applying steam, in particular in order to benefit from a device for treating hair by heating and applying steam which is compact and makes it possible to limit energy losses and which is safe to operate, while being relatively simple to manufacture and use. Statement of the invention

[0010] The invention aims to meet this need and achieves this by means of a device for treating hair with water vapor, in particular a hairbrush, comprising: - a treatment sole intended to come into contact with the hair during treatment, - a vaporization chamber supplied with liquid water, and where it is transformed into steam, - at least one steam distribution chamber on the hair separate from the vaporization chamber and in fluid communication with the vaporization chamber, and - a heating system arranged between the treatment sole and the vaporization chamber and configured to heat the vaporization chamber to a temperature greater than or equal to the vaporization temperature of the water and to heat at least a portion of the treatment sole.

[0011] The device according to the invention makes it possible to pool the heating means necessary for the production of steam on the one hand and for heating the treatment sole on the other hand. It thus has the advantage of allowing compact manufacture of the device. In addition, energy losses can be reduced, the heat released being able to be exploited to the best advantage.

[0012] The presence of a steam distribution chamber separate from the vaporization chamber makes it possible to limit the flow of liquid water onto the hair during treatment, regardless of the orientation of the device. This results in safer operation, and the comfort of use is increased because the device can be used without having to worry about its orientation.

[0013] The steam distribution chamber may distribute steam to the steam outlet or all or part of the steam outlets.

[0014] Preferably, the treatment sole is intended to come into contact with or face the hair. Preferably, this treatment sole comprises a base having an outer surface that is flat or curved outwards. Preferably, this treatment sole is, when viewed from the front, of substantially polygonal outline, in particular rectangular or square, but may also be circular or oval.

[0015] Preferably, the treatment device is of an elongated shape along a main axis. Alternatively, the treatment device is of another, non-elongated shape.

[0016] Preferably, the treatment device comprises a handle and a head. The handle makes it easier to grip the device and allows the insertion into the device of complementary elements, in particular a user interface, a water reservoir and possibly a cosmetic product reservoir. Preferably, the head comprises the vaporization chamber, the distribution chamber(s), the heating system and the soleplate.

[0017] The head of the treatment device may be of any shape in cross-section. Preferably, the head of the treatment device is of a cross-sectional shape substantially polygonal, in particular substantially rectangular or substantially square, or substantially oval or circular. Other cross-sectional shapes are possible, such as a cross-section with a polygonal outline on one side and a non-polygonal, in particular rounded, outline on the other. Preferably, the head of the device is generally flattened in cross-section. Brush

[0018] The device, in particular the head of the device, in particular the treatment sole, may comprise a plurality of teeth for combing the hair. The teeth preferably extend from the base of the treatment sole.

[0019] Preferably, the base of the treatment surface comprises a substantially flat surface intended to come into contact with the hair and from which the teeth extend.

[0020] At least one tooth, better still at least part of the teeth, even better still all the teeth, may comprise a proximal part inserted into the base of the treatment sole. Alternatively, at least one tooth, better still all the teeth, are integral with the base of the treatment sole, or are attached to the latter.

[0021] At least one of the teeth, better still at least part of the teeth, even better still all of the teeth, may be made of a thermally insulating material. At least one of the teeth, better still at least part of the teeth, even better still all of the teeth, may be made of a heat-conducting material, in particular metal.

[0022] Preferably, the treatment device is a brush, the treatment sole in particular comprising a plurality of teeth.

[0023] By "brush" is meant a hair treatment device consisting of a single arm carrying a plurality of teeth between which the hair is received when the brush passes over the hair. The brush may comprise a single row of teeth but preferably comprises a plurality of rows of teeth, which may be arranged in a staggered pattern.

[0024] By "teeth", sometimes also called "pins" or "bristles", we mean projecting elements of the brush between which the hair is received when the brush passes over the hair. The teeth can be of any shape. The teeth can be flexible or rigid, and if necessary have a ball or rounded head at their end.

[0025] The device according to the invention makes it possible to treat hair effectively by brushing it. Thanks to the device according to the invention, it is possible in particular to heat the hair and apply steam in a single action. The device according to the invention allows for lasting hair shaping. Teeth

[0026] Preferably, the teeth extend from the base of the treatment sole. the brush.

[0027] The teeth may extend along at least one row of teeth, better still along at least two rows of teeth, the rows of teeth preferably each extending parallel to the main axis of the brush.

[0028] The treatment sole of the brush may be substantially rectangular or elliptical in shape in front view and the teeth may extend in several rows of teeth, each row extending along the main axis of the brush for a brush with a treatment sole of substantially rectangular or elliptical contour.

[0029] Preferably, the row(s) of teeth each comprise at least 3 teeth, better still between 10 and 40 teeth, even better still between 15 and 40 teeth.

[0030] At least one tooth of the plurality of teeth, better still a portion of the teeth, even better still all of the teeth, can be heated by the heating system, in particular to a temperature greater than or equal to 180°C. The combination of heating the teeth and applying steam makes it possible to improve the treatment of the hair. This makes it possible in particular to maintain a higher temperature in the steam application spaces, in particular the interdental spaces in the case where the steam is projected into these spaces. This also makes it possible to heat the hair with dry heat before or after the application of steam, which improves the treatment of the hair by steam.

[0031] Using the same heating system to produce steam and to heat the teeth of the treatment soleplate also allows for a lightweight device, making it easier to handle. At least some of the teeth of the treatment soleplate, better all of the teeth of the treatment soleplate, may be made of a heat-conducting material, in particular iron, aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, graphite, or ceramic. The heating system may heat at least some of the teeth, in particular at least two of the teeth, better at least one or more rows of teeth, in particular may heat all of the teeth which are made of a heat-conducting material. This allows the teeth to be easily heated by the heating means, and for the hair to be in contact with hot surfaces in the combing heating zone.Said teeth may have at their end a thermal protection made of thermally insulating material, in particular elastomer or plastic, to limit the heat in contact with the scalp.

[0032] Preferably, the teeth have a height of between 2 mm and 50 mm, better still between 5 mm and 20 mm.

[0033] Preferably, the teeth are free of surface growths.

[0034] Preferably, at least some of the teeth, better all of the teeth, are reported. on the base of the treatment sole, in particular fixed in holes in the base of the treatment sole. Alternatively, at least some of the teeth, better all of the teeth, are integral with the base of the treatment sole.

[0035] The teeth may extend perpendicular to the base of the treatment sole or be inclined relative to the base of the treatment sole.

[0036] Preferably, the teeth all extend along axes parallel to each other.

[0037] A portion of the teeth may be made of a material that is not very heat-conducting, for example elastomer or plastic, in particular the ends as indicated previously to limit the risk of burning the scalp.

[0038] The brush may comprise, along an axis perpendicular to the main axis of the brush, an alternation of rows of teeth made of a heat-conducting material and rows of teeth made of a material that is not or only slightly heat-conducting.

[0039] The teeth made of a material that is not or only slightly heat-conductive may be of a different height, in particular higher, than the teeth made of a material that is not heat-conductive. Having teeth that are not or only slightly heat-conductive higher than the heat-conductive teeth thus also makes it possible to limit contact between the scalp and the heat-conductive teeth, with only the teeth that are not or only slightly heat-conductive coming into contact with the scalp.

[0040] The base of the sole is preferably made of a heat-conducting material, which can maximize the heat exchange surface between the heating system and the base of the sole. At least a portion of the teeth can be attached to the base of the sole and be made of a material that is not very heat-conducting, in particular heat-insulating. At least a portion of the teeth can be made of the same material as the base of the sole.

[0041] Alternatively, the base of the sole may be made of a material that is a poor conductor of heat, in particular a heat insulator. In this case, at least some of the teeth may be attached to the base of the sole and be made of a heat-conducting material as mentioned above. At least some of the teeth that are not intended to be heated may be integral with the sole base or be attached to the latter and be made of a material that is a poor or non-conductive conductor of heat. Heating System

[0042] Preferably, the vaporization chamber is heated mainly, in particular only, by the heating system.

[0043] Preferably, the heating system comprises a single heating member. Alternatively, the heating system comprises several heating members, for example two heating members arranged between the vaporization chamber and the treatment soleplate, the heating member(s) being configured to bring the vaporization chamber to a temperature greater than or equal to the vaporization temperature of the water. When several heating members are used, these heating members may be adjacent to one another or spaced apart, in particular separated by a steam distribution chamber or by at least one steam outlet channel.

[0044] The heating system may comprise, in particular be constituted by, one or more thermal resistors or by any other suitable heating means.

[0045] The heating system may be of substantially parallelepipedal shape.

[0046] The heating system may have a main face facing the heating chamber. vaporization and an opposite main face facing the treatment sole.

[0047] The heating system may be in contact by one of its main faces with a surface of the treatment sole, in particular a lower surface of its base.

[0048] The heating system may be in contact by one of its main faces, in particular the face opposite the face in contact with the treatment sole, with a wall delimiting the vaporization chamber.

[0049] A thermal paste may be placed at the interface between the heating system and the soleplate, as well as at the interface between the heating system and the wall of the vaporization chamber.

[0050] Preferably, the heating system is configured to heat the vaporization chamber so that, during use, in particular during the introduction of liquid water into the vaporization chamber, the temperature in the vaporization chamber is always greater than or equal to the vaporization temperature.

[0051] The heating system may be configured to heat the vaporization chamber to a temperature between 100 and 200°C, more preferably to a temperature between 110 and 180°C.

[0052] The heating system may be configured to heat at least a portion of the treatment sole to a temperature between 100°C and 250°C, better between 150°C and 230°C, even better between 170°C and 210°C.

[0053] The heating system may have an electrical power greater than or equal to 50W, or even 100W, 200W or 500W. In particular, the heating power of the heating system is chosen such that, taking into account the flow rate of arriving water and the temperature of the water, all the water is vaporized in the vaporization chamber continuously, as it arrives therein.

[0054] The device may comprise a switch for turning on the heating system. For example, if the heating system comprises a heating resistor, the switch may enable it to be switched on or to switch on a control circuit for the heating resistor which, for example, regulates the temperature and powers the heating resistor so as to maintain a set temperature.

[0055] The switch can be controlled by the user via a selector, for example a two or three position button.

[0056] In the case of a brush, the selector can be arranged on the grip handle.

[0057] The selector can also be used to vary the temperature of the heating system. The temperature of the treatment soleplate and / or the teeth of the brush can thus be adapted to the type of hair to be treated and / or the nature of the treatment to be carried out. The same device can therefore be used to treat several types of hair.

[0058] The device according to the invention may comprise a power supply. For example, the power supply is provided by means of accumulators and / or batteries and / or by means of an electric cable connected to a mains socket or to a mains adapter.

[0059] The power supply may in particular make it possible to power the heating resistor(s) of the heating system, directly or indirectly via a control circuit. Vaporization chamber

[0060] The vaporization chamber may be devoid of an element absorbing the liquid to be vaporized. The device is thus simpler to manufacture and lighter. It is therefore easier to handle, and in the case of a brush allows the hair to be brushed in several directions. Vaporization of the water is also facilitated and the formation of limescale is limited.

[0061] The vaporization chamber may comprise at least one wall, preferably opposite the heating system, concave towards the treatment sole, in particular a wall whose section is in the shape of a portion of a circle. Such a shape of vaporization chamber makes it possible to have a substantially constant and homogeneous pressure and temperature of the vapor in the vaporization chamber, which makes it possible to limit the presence of liquid water particles suspended in the vapor contained in the vaporization chamber.

[0062] Preferably, the vaporization chamber comprises a wall in contact with the heating system which is substantially flat.

[0063] The vaporization chamber may have a substantially polygonal, in particular rectangular, cross-section. Such a shape allows for substantially uniform heating of the vaporization chamber across its entire width and rapid formation of steam.

[0064] The cross-section of the vaporization chamber may have a surface area of ​​between 3 and 10 cm2, better still between 4 and 7 cm2, for example of the order of 5 cm2.

[0065] The volume of the vaporization chamber is preferably 20 to 100 cm3, better still 30 to 70 cm3, for example of the order of 45 cm3.

[0066] Such a vaporization chamber makes it possible to contain sufficient steam to ensure effective treatment of the hair while maintaining a sufficiently compact and lightweight device.

[0067] The device comprises a liquid water inlet into the vaporization chamber.

[0068] The water inlet may be connected to a liquid water tank. The device may include the reservoir, for example in the handle. The device may include a pump between the water reservoir and the vaporization chamber. The reservoir may have a volume between 1 mL and 50 mL. Such a volume allows it to contain enough water to treat the hair completely without having to refill it during treatment, which allows the device to be portable and space-saving.

[0069] Preferably, the device is portable.

[0070] Alternatively, the reservoir may be remote. In a particular embodiment, the device comprises a handpiece and a base. The base may comprise a water reservoir. The handpiece of the device may be connected to the base, for example by a pipe allowing the circulation of water. The handpiece may be supplied with water by a supply device, for example a pump. Thanks to such a device, the handpiece may be lighter since it does not contain water. Hair treatment is thus made easier. In addition, the remote reservoir may contain more water. Several treatments may be carried out before having to refill the reservoir.

[0071] The device may comprise a system for supplying the vaporization chamber with water, in particular a pump. The supply system may be configured to supply the vaporization chamber as a function of the temperature of the latter or as a function of the time elapsed since the device was started. The supply system may be configured to supply the vaporization chamber only when the temperature of the chamber is greater than a predefined threshold temperature or when the time elapsed since the device was started is greater than or equal to a predetermined time corresponding in particular to the time taken for the temperature to rise to a predefined threshold temperature of the vaporization chamber. The temperature of the vaporization chamber may be measured using a sensor arranged therein, or at the interface between the heating system and the vaporization chamber.

[0072] This control of the water supply as a function of temperature makes it possible to limit the risk of applying liquid water instead of steam.

[0073] The device may comprise a steam control member configured to control the application or not of steam to the hair. For example, the steam control member may control the supply of water to the vaporization chamber. When the user wants to apply steam to his hair, he actuates the steam control member which then controls, for example, a pump connected to the reservoir to bring liquid water into the vaporization chamber. Distribution room

[0074] The device may comprise a single steam distribution chamber

[0075] Alternatively, the device comprises several distribution chambers, in particular two distribution chambers, in particular two distribution chambers arranged on either side of the vaporization chamber

[0076] The or at least one distribution chamber may extend at least partially laterally relative to the superposition of the vaporization chamber and the heating system. Preferably, all the distribution chambers extend at least partially laterally relative to the superposition of the vaporization chamber and the heating system. Such a lateral arrangement of the distribution chamber(s) makes it possible to produce the latter with a thickness which corresponds substantially to the cumulative thicknesses of the heating system and the vaporization chamber. This makes it possible to gain in compactness, and to maximize the heat exchanges with the vaporization chamber and the heating system.It may indeed be useful for the or each distribution chamber to be at a temperature higher than the vaporization temperature of the water, so that in the event of water droplets being projected into this chamber from the vaporization chamber, these droplets are transformed into steam within the distribution chamber, so that only steam comes out of the device.

[0077] At least one distribution chamber may extend between two heating members of the heating system, from the vaporization chamber to steam outlets, in particular steam outlets in the treatment sole.

[0078] The cross-section of the distribution chamber may have an area of ​​between 0.1 and 2 cm2, better between 0.3 and 1 cm2, for example of the order of 0.5 cm2.

[0079] When the device comprises two distribution chambers, these can be arranged on either side of the superposition of the vaporization chamber and the heating system, as mentioned above, over a thickness which is preferably greater than or equal to the thickness of the vaporization chamber and the heating system.

[0080] The distribution chamber preferably has an enlarged base separated from the vaporization chamber by a wall of the latter. This can make it possible to create a shoulder for positioning the heating system above the vaporization chamber.

[0081] The distribution chamber preferably has an L-shape in cross-section. The lower part of the L which forms the aforementioned widened base may extend laterally relative to the vaporization chamber. The upper part of the L may extend laterally relative to the heating system.

[0082] The base of the distribution chamber(s) may be arranged substantially at the same height as the top of the vaporization chamber. Such an arrangement prevents the liquid water remaining at the bottom of the vaporization chamber from flowing towards the distribution chamber. This ensures that almost only steam, and not liquid water, flows from the vaporization chamber to the distribution chamber.

[0083] The distribution chamber(s) preferably extend over substantially the entire length of the soleplate or vaporization chamber. Steam outlets

[0084] The treatment device, in particular the distribution chamber, may comprise several steam outlets.

[0085] The distribution chamber may have at least one steam passage opening, which may be a steam outlet, extending laterally relative to the treatment sole or extending through the treatment sole.

[0086] Preferably, the steam outlet(s) extend close to the peripheral edges of the treatment sole.

[0087] The steam outlet zone may be elongated along an extension axis extending over more than 70%, better more than 80%, of the dimension of the treatment surface along the extension axis. Preferably, this extension axis is parallel to the main axis of the device.

[0088] The or each distribution chamber may comprise a steam outlet, in particular a single steam outlet, elongated along the extension axis, in particular over the entire length of the steam outlet zone. In this case, the steam outlet may have an opening with a section greater than or equal to 5 mm2.

[0089] The or each distribution chamber may comprise a plurality of steam outlets extending along at least one row of steam outlets following one another along the extension axis.

[0090] The steam outlets of the row of steam outlets may alternate with teeth arranged in a row of teeth, in particular the teeth of the brush in the case of a brush, in particular teeth made of a heat-conducting material of the brush, as mentioned above. Alternatively, the steam outlets are arranged in an area of ​​the brush without teeth.

[0091] Alternatively, the steam outlet(s) may extend away from the peripheral edges of the treatment soleplate of the device. In the case of a brush, the steam outlet(s) may be bordered laterally by teeth, in particular rows of teeth, in particular teeth made of a heat-conducting material as mentioned above.

[0092] Preferably, the steam outlet(s) emit steam with a steam flow rate less than or equal to 5 mL.min *, better between 0.2 and 4 mL.min *, even better between 0.4 and 2 mL.min *, preferably between 0.5 and 0.95 mL.min *.

[0093] The steam outlet(s) may be in any cross-sectional shape, in particular sen- possibly square, possibly rectangular, possibly round or oval.

[0094] The or each steam outlet has an opening less than or equal to 20 mm2, better still less than or equal to 10 mm2, even better still less than or equal to 5 mm2, most preferably less than or equal to 2 mm2.

[0095] The steam outlet(s) may be provided on the treatment sole. Alternatively, the steam outlet(s) may be provided on teeth carried by the treatment sole.

[0096] In one embodiment of the invention, at least one tooth, better still at least a portion of the plurality of teeth, may be hollow, and may comprise a steam outlet. Preferably, the hollow teeth provided with steam outlets are aligned along the same extension axis. More preferably, the hollow teeth provided with steam outlets are arranged at the periphery of the treatment sole.

[0097] The steam supplying the steam outlets provided on the hollow teeth may come from a distribution chamber via a steam passage opening. Each distribution chamber may comprise a steam passage opening, in particular a single steam passage opening, elongated along the extension axis of the row of hollow teeth, in particular over the entire length of the carrying area of ​​the hollow teeth provided with steam outlets. In this case, the steam passage opening may have an opening greater than or equal to 5 mm2, and it is the teeth or the sole which have a narrower section and define the steam outlet orifice(s), through which the steam escapes from the device. Body of the device

[0098] The treatment sole, the heating system, the vaporization chamber and / or the steam distribution chamber(s) may be elongated along parallel longitudinal axes.

[0099] In the case of a brush elongated along a main axis, the treatment sole, the heating system, the vaporization chamber and / or the distribution chamber(s) may be elongated along longitudinal axes parallel to the main axis of the brush.

[0100] The distribution chamber(s) and the vaporization chamber may be formed by a profile.

[0101] The device may comprise a hollow body having at least two longitudinal cavities separated from each other by a wall, respectively forming the vaporization chamber and the distribution chamber. The device has a housing for the heating system, preferably of substantially polygonal cross-section, in particular rectangular, delimited by at least one external surface of the body, in particular a wall of the vaporization chamber and optionally a wall of the distribution chamber. This housing may be closed by an in- lower part of the treatment sole, especially its base.

[0102] Preferably the hollow body is in a single block, in particular made from a single piece. Preferably the hollow body is made of a heat-conducting material, for example a metallic material. Preferably the hollow body is formed by a metallic profile. The aforementioned passage opening allowing the steam to leave each distribution chamber may be in the form of a longitudinal slot extending over a major part of the length of the profile.

[0103] The hollow body of the device may be formed from a metal profile, in particular an aluminum profile.

[0104] Preferably the hollow body is received in an insulating housing of the device. This makes it possible to protect the user from heat.

[0105] Preferably, the housing receiving the heating system has a substantially rectangular cross-section, a wall of the vaporization chamber and a surface of the treatment sole defining its main faces.

[0106] Preferably, the width of the heating system corresponds to that of the housing.

[0107] One of the side faces of the housing may be defined by a wall of the distribution chamber.

[0108] The treatment sole may bear against the hollow body, in particular against a surface of the body formed by a wall separating the housing from a steam distribution chamber.

[0109] Such an arrangement of the different elements in the body of the device makes it possible to obtain a compact device. Steam ducts

[0110] The device may comprise at least one conduit, better still at least two conduits for supplying steam to the steam outlet(s).

[0111] Preferably at least one conduit, better still at least two conduits extending between the distribution chamber(s) and the vaporization chamber to supply steam to the distribution chamber(s).

[0112] The or each conduit may extend to a longitudinal end of the vaporization and distribution chambers,

[0113] Preferably, the conduit opens at the base of a distribution chamber, on the opposite side of the sole, for example in the aforementioned widened base of a distribution chamber. Preferably, the conduit opens into the upper part of the vaporization chamber.

[0114] The or each conduit may comprise curved portions and / or rectilinear portions.

[0115] A conduit can put a distribution chamber in fluid communication with the vaporization chamber. In the case where there are several distribution chambers tribution, a conduit can alternatively put all the distribution chambers and the vaporization chamber in fluid communication. End caps

[0116] The device may comprise at least one of its longitudinal ends, better still at both of its longitudinal ends, an end cap for closing at least the vaporization and distribution chambers at the end.

[0117] The or each end cap may have at least one groove forming at least partially a fluid communication conduit between the vaporization chamber and the distribution chamber(s).

[0118] Preferably, the groove is provided on the internal face of the cap which is the face opposite the vaporization chamber and the distribution chambers.

[0119] The treatment device can be oriented in different directions during use, for example when brushing hair. The fluid communication conduits of the distribution and vaporization chambers ensure that the liquid water contained in the vaporization chamber does not flow towards the distribution chamber regardless of the orientation of the device.

[0120] The groove may have at least one bend, better two bends in opposite directions, and thus be generally S-shaped when the end cap is viewed from the front.

[0121] Alternatively, the groove is straight when the end cap is viewed from the front.

[0122] The or each conduit may be substantially rectilinear. The or each conduit may extend transversely relative to the longitudinal axis of the device and extend over at least 50%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80% of the width of the end cap. Sealing gasket

[0123] The device may comprise a seal between the or each end cap and the body of the device, the seal comprising at least one opening.

[0124] Preferably, the seal has the following openings:

[0125] - an opening opposite the distribution chamber on the one hand, in particular in the lower part of the distribution chamber, and of the groove provided in the end cap on the other hand, and

[0126] - an opening opposite the vaporization chamber on the one hand, in particular in view of the upper part of the vaporization chamber and the groove made in the end cap on the other hand.

[0127] Alternatively, the seal comprises a single opening which extends opposite the vaporization chamber and at least one distribution chamber.

[0128] Preferably, the opening(s) of the seal at least partially overlap the groove of the end cap when their overlap is observed along the longitudinal axis of the vaporization chamber. The conduit between the vaporization chamber and one or more distribution chambers can thus be formed, and the vapor can flow to the distribution chamber through this conduit.

[0129] The conduit(s) allowing the passage of steam from the vaporization chamber to the distribution chamber(s) may also be formed integrally within the thickness of the sealing gasket, the sealing plug having, for example, a face bearing against the gasket without a hollow relief.

[0130] The invention also relates, according to another of its aspects, independently or in combination with the above, to a device for treating hair with water vapor, in particular a hairbrush, comprising - a hollow body supplied with liquid water and heated to vaporize the liquid water, - at least one end cap disposed at a longitudinal end of the hollow body, comprising a conduit configured to conduct the steam outside the hollow body, from one cavity to the other thereof.

[0131] This aspect of the invention has the advantage of allowing a simplification of the production of the hollow body. An extruded profile can be used to produce it.

[0132] The invention also relates, according to another of its aspects, independently or in combination with the above, to a device for treating hair with water vapor, in particular a hairbrush, comprising a single-piece hollow body, preferably a profile, having at least two cavities each extending longitudinally, superimposed transversely between them and separated from each other transversely by a wall respectively forming a vaporization chamber and a housing intended to receive a heating system, at least one external surface of said hollow body forming a treatment sole intended to come into contact with the hair during the treatment.

[0133] The treatment sole can be made in one piece with the hollow body of the device, preferably forming part of the profile. The device is thus simple to manufacture.

[0134] The sole may be smooth, for example to use the device for straightening hair. Alternatively, the sole may be machined to form teeth or other reliefs.

[0135] The invention also relates, according to another of its aspects, independently or in combination with the above, to a device for treating hair with water vapor, in particular a hairbrush, comprising a hollow body, for example a profile, having at least two cavities each extending longitudinally, superimposed transversely between them and separated from each other transversely by a wall, respectively forming a vaporization chamber and a housing intended to receive a heating system, the hollow body comprising also at least one longitudinal slot provided on its outer surface and through which the steam formed in the vaporization chamber escapes.

[0136] A treatment sole may be arranged on the hollow body so that it overlaps the longitudinal slot. The treatment sole may have openings providing steam outlets. The steam outlets of the treatment sole may thus be supplied with steam through the longitudinal slot of the hollow body. Such an arrangement ensures uniform distribution of the steam over the entire treatment sole and thus improves hair treatment. Treatment process

[0137] The invention also relates, according to another of its aspects, to a method for treating hair using a device according to the invention, comprising bringing the hair into contact with the treatment soleplate and applying steam to the hair via one or more steam outlets.

[0138] Preferably, the total flow rate of steam exiting the steam outlet(s) may be between 0.5 and 2 g / min, better still between 0.7 and 2 g / min.

[0139] Preferably, the method is a hair brushing treatment.

[0140] The characteristics of the device described above apply to the method in combination or individually from each other.

[0141] The process can be repeated several times for complete treatment of part or all of the hair.

[0142] The method may comprise one or more steps of rinsing the hair.

[0143] The method may comprise at least one step of applying a product cosmetic on the lock of hair before and / or after using the device of the invention, in particular a brush, and preferably before.

[0144] The cosmetic product may be a composition for cleaning, coloring, bleaching, conditioning, or shaping hair. Preferably, the cosmetic product is a hair shaping composition, in particular a hair curling, setting, or, preferably, hair straightening or smoothing composition.

[0145] The cosmetic products that can be used according to the process of the invention can be liquids, gels, milks or creams in the form of simple emulsions (O / W or W / O) or multiple emulsions, solids.

[0146] The cosmetic product may contain one or more active agents chosen from reducing agents and in particular thiols, oxidizing agents and in particular hydrogen peroxide or persalts such as persulfates, coloring agents and in particular pigments, direct dyes or oxidation dyes, non-durable shaping agents and in particular styling polymers, preferably anionic, amphoteric or non-ionic, conditioning agents and in particular silicones, mineral or vegetable oils, vegetable waxes, cationic surfactants or cationic polymers, alkaline agents or acids. Even more preferably, the cosmetic product contains one or more agents chosen from oxidizing agents, reducing agents or alkaline agents of the hydroxide type. Brief description of the drawings

[0147] The invention may be better understood by reading the description which follows, non-limiting examples of its implementation, and by examining the appended drawings, in which:

[0148] [Fig.l] [Fig.l] schematically represents an example of a device according to an alternative embodiment,

[0149] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a cross-sectional view of the device of [Fig.l],

[0150] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is an exploded view of the device of [Fig.l],

[0151] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a perspective view of the body of a device according to a variant of the invention,

[0152] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is a front view of the device body of [Fig.4],

[0153] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is an exploded view of the device body of [Fig.4],

[0154] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is a cross-sectional view of the device body of the [Fig.4],

[0155] [Fig.8] [Fig.8] represents in isolation the end cap of [Fig.7],

[0156] [Fig.9] [Fig.9] represents in isolation the end joint of [Fig.7], and

[0157] [Fig. 10] [Fig. 10] is a sectional diagram of an alternative embodiment. Detailed description

[0158] Figures 1 to 3 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device 1 according to the invention. The latter extends along a main axis X. The device 1 comprises a treatment sole 2 comprising a base 10 and teeth 20 whose proximal ends are fixed to the base 10.

[0159] The device 1 may also comprise, as illustrated, hollow teeth 21 extending around the periphery of the treatment sole and which comprise steam outlets 22.

[0160] The device 1 comprises a hollow body 4, formed by a metal profile, which has three longitudinal cavities separated from each other by walls, respectively forming a vaporization chamber 5 and two distribution chambers 6a and 6b, visible in Figures 2 and 3.

[0161] The device 1 has a housing 30 intended to receive a heating system 3. The housing 30 extends along the partitioned hollow body 4, being for example of rectangular cross-section, and the bottom of this housing is delimited by a partition 90 of the vaporization chamber 5. The housing is delimited laterally by partitions 91 of the distribution chambers 6a and 6b, and a surface of the treatment sole 2.

[0162] The vaporization chamber 5 has for example a rectangular cross-sectional shape. The distribution chambers 6a and 6b have for example an L-shape in cross-section, being symmetrical to each other with respect to a median plane of symmetry containing the X axis.

[0163] The heating system 3 has a flattened shape, with a main face 31 facing the vaporization chamber and an opposite main face 32, facing the treatment sole 2.

[0164] The heating system 3 is arranged in the housing 30 between the treatment sole 2 and the vaporization chamber 5. The heating system 3 thus simultaneously heats the vaporization chamber 5, the base of the treatment sole 2 and the teeth.

[0165] Each chamber 6a or 6b has an enlarged base 60 which is separated from the vaporization chamber 5 by the wall 50.

[0166] Each distribution chamber 6a and 6b has a distribution opening 61 through which the steam exits. As seen in [Fig. 3], the distribution openings 61 are formed by slots and can extend over more than 80% of the length of the treatment soleplate 2. Each of the openings 61 extends below a row of hollow teeth 21 having steam outlets 22. The steam contained in the distribution chambers 6a and 6b passes through the distribution openings 61 then through the steam outlets 22 before being applied to the hair during treatment.

[0167] The upper wall of each distribution chamber 6a, 6b, which includes the opening 61 for the passage of steam, is set back relative to the treatment base.

[0168] The device 1 also comprises a liquid water supply conduit 9 which extends longitudinally under the head of the device in the example illustrated. The supply conduit can be made of elastomeric plastic or copper-plated metal.

[0169] This supply conduit 9 is for example connected to the vaporization chamber 5, for example by an elbow connecting the supply conduit 9 to a longitudinal end of the vaporization chamber 5. As a variant, the supply conduit 9 may comprise openings 90 opening into the lower face 51 of the vaporization chamber 5. The latter can thus be supplied with water via its lower face 51.

[0170] A seal may be provided between the supply conduit and the vaporization chamber to prevent leakage of liquid water.

[0171] The device 1 comprises at each of its longitudinal ends an end cap 8 which closes at this end the vaporization chamber 5 and distribution chamber 6a and 6b. The end caps 8 can be fixed to the device by any means, for example by one or more screws 83, by gluing, welding, snap-fastening, crimping or otherwise. A seal 7, in particular an elastomer seal, may be interposed between the body 4 and each cap 8, as illustrated.

[0172] A groove 70, substantially rectilinear, may be provided on each end plug 7. Each seal 7 may comprise an opening 80 of a shape substantially similar to the groove 70, so that when the end plug 8 and the seal 7 are placed in the body 4 of the device, the opening 80 is opposite the groove 70.

[0173] The opening 80 and the groove 70 make it possible to provide a conduit 85 connecting the vaporization chamber 5 and the distribution chambers 6a and 6b to the outside of the body 4. The steam generated in the vaporization chamber can thus flow towards the distribution chambers 6a and 6b.

[0174] The end caps 8 and the sealing gaskets 7 may have holes 84 for receiving the screws 83 in order to fix them to the body of the device 4.

[0175] An alternative embodiment is illustrated in Figures 4 to 7.

[0176] In this variant, the device body 4 has a different cross-section, still being formed by a metal profile.

[0177] It has three longitudinal cavities, two of which are separated from each other by a wall 50, and respectively form the vaporization chamber 5 and the distribution chamber 6. The third cavity forms a housing 30 intended to receive the heating system.

[0178] The housing 30 is for example of rectangular cross-section. In the example considered, the housing 30 is delimited by a partition 90 of the vaporization chamber 5, a partition 91 of the distribution chamber 6, and a surface 92 of the treatment sole 2.

[0179] The vaporization chamber 5 comprises a partition 93 opposite the partition 91 and for example concave towards the treatment sole 2, as illustrated.

[0180] The vaporization chamber 5 is supplied with liquid water by a water inlet, for example a cannula 92, which passes through the end cap and the seal and opens into the vaporization chamber. The cannula 92 can be made of copper or elastomeric plastic. This cannula 92 makes it possible to deliver water in several directions, as illustrated in [Fig.7].

[0181] In this example, the treatment sole 2 is formed by an upper surface 25 of the hollow body 4. In a variant not illustrated, a treatment sole 2 is attached against the upper face 25 of the hollow body.

[0182] The heating system 3 is arranged between the vaporization chamber 5 and the treatment sole 2 and heats them simultaneously.

[0183] As illustrated in [Fig.4], the device may comprise an electrical power supply cable 100. This cable may, for example, supply the heating system. The device alternatively it can have power supply batteries to facilitate handling.

[0184] The distribution chamber 6 has a general L shape and comprises a widened base 60. This base is separated from the vaporization chamber 5 by the wall 50. The widened base 60 of the distribution chamber 6 overlaps at least partially with the vaporization chamber. The distribution chamber 6 comprises a steam distribution opening 61 located in its upper part, for example in the form of a longitudinal slot as in the previous example. The upper wall of each distribution chamber, which comprises the steam passage opening 61, is set back relative to the treatment sole.

[0185] As in the embodiment of Figures 1 to 3, the device comprises at each of its longitudinal ends an end cap 8 which closes the vaporization 5 and distribution 6 chambers, with the interposition of a seal 7.

[0186] In the embodiment of Figures 4 to 9, the seals 7 comprise a first opening 81 and a second opening 82, both of oblong shape. The first opening 81 opens into the upper part of the vaporization chamber 5 and the second opening 82 opens into the enlarged base 60 of the distribution chamber 6.

[0187] A groove 70 is formed in the thickness of the end cap 8. This groove 70 has a general S shape which makes it possible to connect the two openings 81 and 82 of the seal 7. This forms a conduit comprising a baffle between the vaporization chamber 5 and the distribution chamber 6. The particular shape of the conduit makes it possible to prevent liquid water contained in the vaporization chamber 5 from passing into the distribution chamber 6 and flowing onto the hair during treatment.

[0188] [Fig. 10] shows another alternative embodiment of the invention. In this alternative, two heating members 3a and 3b are arranged between the treatment soleplate 2 and the vaporization chamber 5. The device according to this alternative comprises a single distribution chamber 6 and the two heating members 3a and 3b are arranged laterally on either side of the distribution chamber 6.

[0189] The distribution chamber 6 comprises a distribution opening 61 which extends through the treatment sole 2 in an area devoid of teeth 20.

[0190] The distribution chamber 6 has a general T-shape in cross-section. The distribution chamber 6 is separated from the vaporization chamber 5 by a wall 50.

[0191] Communication between the distribution chamber 6 and the vaporization chamber 5 is achieved by means of a conduit formed in part by a groove provided in an end plug as described previously with reference to the other embodiments.

[0192] The invention is not limited to the embodiments previously described.

[0193] For example, the device comprises a member for applying a cosmetic product allowing the product to be applied to the hair.

[0194] The different embodiments and variants can be combined as long as they are compatible.

Claims

Claims

1. Device (1) for treating hair with water vapor, in particular a hairbrush, comprising, - a treatment soleplate (2) intended to come into contact with the hair during treatment, - a vaporization chamber (5) supplied with liquid water, and where the latter is transformed into vapor, - at least one distribution chamber (6, 6a, 6b) of the vapor on the hair, separate from the vaporization chamber and in fluid communication with the vaporization chamber, and - a heating system (3) arranged between the treatment soleplate and the vaporization chamber and configured to heat the vaporization chamber to a temperature greater than or equal to the vaporization temperature of the water and to heat at least a portion of the treatment soleplate.

2. Device according to the preceding claim, the vaporization chamber (5) being devoid of an element absorbing the liquid to be vaporized.

3. Device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a gripping handle and a head comprising a plurality of teeth (20) for combing the hair.

4. Device according to the preceding claim, at least one tooth (20) of the plurality of teeth being heated by the heating system (3), in particular to a temperature greater than or equal to 180°C.

5. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, the heating system (3) having a main face (31) facing the vaporization chamber (5), preferably in contact with a wall (90) delimiting the vaporization chamber (5), and an opposite main face (32) facing the treatment sole (2), preferably in contact with a surface of the treatment sole (92), in particular a lower surface of its base.

6. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, the distribution chamber(s) (6, 6a, 6b) and the vaporization chamber (5) being formed by a profile.

7. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, the vaporization chamber (5) comprising at least one wall (93) concave towards the treatment sole (2), in particular a wall whose section is in the form of a portion of a circle.

8. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, the or at least one distribution chamber (6, 6a, 6b) extending at least partially laterally relative to the superposition of the vaporization chamber (5) and the heating system (3).

9. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, the device comprising an inlet of liquid water into the vaporization chamber (5).

10. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, the or at least one distribution chamber (6, 6a, 6b) having at least one steam passage opening (61), which may be a steam outlet, extending laterally relative to the treatment sole (2) or extending through the treatment sole (2).

11. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, the device comprising at least one conduit, better still at least two conduits (85) for supplying steam to the steam outlet(s), and / or preferably at least one conduit, better still at least two conduits (85) between the distribution chamber(s) (6, 6a, 6b) and the vaporization chamber (5) for supplying steam to the distribution chamber(s) (6, 6a, 6b).

12. Device according to the preceding claim, the or each conduit extending at a longitudinal end of the vaporization and distribution chambers,

13. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a hollow body (4) having at least two longitudinal cavities separated from each other by a wall (50) respectively forming the vaporization chamber (50) and the distribution chamber (6a, 6b, 6), and having a housing (30) for the heating system (3), preferably of substantially polygonal, in particular rectangular, cross-section, delimited by at least one outer surface of the body, in particular a wall of the vaporization chamber (90) and optionally a wall of one or more distribution chambers (91), and a surface of the treatment sole (92).

14. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, the device comprising at least one of its longitudinal ends, better still at both of its longitudinal ends, an end plug (8) for closing at least the vaporization and distribution chambers at the end.

15. Device according to the preceding claim, the or each stopper end (8) having at least one groove (70) forming at least partially a fluid communication conduit between the vaporization chamber (5) and the distribution chamber(s) (6, 6a, 6b).

16. Device according to one of claims 14 or 15, the device comprising a seal (7) between the or each end cap (8) and the device body (4), the seal comprising at least one opening (80), the seal (7) preferably comprising the following openings; - an opening (82) facing the distribution chamber (6) on the one hand, in particular in the lower part of the distribution chamber, and the groove (70) formed in the end cap (8) on the other hand, and - an opening (81) facing the vaporization chamber (5) on the one hand, in particular facing the upper part of the vaporization chamber and the groove (70) formed in the end cap (8) on the other hand.

17. A method of treating hair using a device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising bringing the hair into contact with the treatment soleplate (2) and applying steam to the hair via one or more steam outlets (22, 61), the total flow rate of steam leaving the steam outlet(s) (22, 61) preferably being between 0.5 and 2 g / min, better still between 0.7 and 2 g / min.

18. Method according to claim 17 comprising at least one step of applying a cosmetic product to the lock of hair before and / or after using the device (1) of the invention, and preferably before, the cosmetic product being able to be in particular a composition for cleaning, coloring, bleaching, conditioning or shaping the hair.

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