Hair styling device with rotating head and automatic selection of the direction of rotation of said head

Abstract

Hair styling device with rotating head and automatic selection of the direction of rotation of said head. The invention relates to a portable electric hair styling device (1) comprising a main body (2), a styling head (4) connected to the main body (2) and comprising a rotating part (16) provided with a mechanical hair engagement element (7), and an electric drive module (17) for rotating the rotating part (16) relative to the main body (2) in a first or second direction of rotation. The device includes a device for detecting the direction of forced rotation of the rotating part under the effect of a force exerted by the hair against the mechanical hair engagement element, and a device for automatically selecting the first or second direction of rotation according to the detected direction of forced rotation. Hair styling devices. Figure for the abstract: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: HAIRDRESSING APPLIANCE WITH ROTATING HEAD AND AUTOMATIC SELECTION OF THE DIRECTION OF ROTATION OF SAID HEAD

[0001] The present invention relates to the general technical field of hairdressing appliances, for example for home use, and more specifically to the field of portable hairdressing appliances designed to help with hair styling.

[0002] The invention relates more specifically to a portable electric hair styling device comprising a main body including a hand grip, 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 hair styling appliances are known, the styling head of which includes a mechanical hair engagement element, such as brush bristles, designed to come into contact with the hair to help shape it. In particular, hairbrushes, with or without blow dryers, are known, in which a portion of the styling head is mounted to rotate thanks to an integrated electric motor, in order to achieve certain hair styling effects, such as blow-drying. These known hair styling appliances are equipped with manual control switches that the user can use to control the rotation of a rotating portion of the styling head in a desired direction.

[0004] Such a control for rotating the rotating part of the styling head of the hair styling appliance, via manual control switches, is generally relatively simple and practical for a user working on someone else's hair. However, it proves to be much more complex and counterintuitive for a user wishing to use the styling appliance on their own hair, particularly when using a mirror, which reflects an inverted image, during the styling process. For example, depending on the position and general orientation of the rotating hairbrush relative to their head and hair, the user may have difficulty identifying which switch to use to achieve the desired styling effect by rotating the rotating part of the hairbrush's styling head.

[0005] The objects assigned to the invention therefore aim to provide an answer to the aforementioned problem, and to propose a new portable electric hair styling device whose use is particularly simple and intuitive, especially for a person using the hair styling device on their own hair.

[0006] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new portable electric hair styling device that is particularly ergonomic.

[0007] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new portable electric hairdressing device that is particularly robust and reliable.

[0008] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new portable electric hair styling device which is particularly safe, practical and economical to use.

[0009] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new portable electric hairdressing device of particularly simple construction, and whose manufacture is relatively easy and whose costs are controlled.

[0010] The objects assigned to the invention are achieved with the aid of a portable electric hair styling device comprising a main body including a hand grip, 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 device 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 for the rotating part of the styling head from among said first and second directions of rotation, depending on the direction of forced rotation detected.

[0011] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent and will be described in more detail upon reading the following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, given solely by way of illustration and not limitation, among which:

[0012] [Fig-1] illustrates, in perspective view, one embodiment of a device hairstyle according to the invention, the device here being a rotating brush, advantageously blowing and heated. The device 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 device (right configuration);

[0013] [Fig.2] illustrates, according to a perspective view, the apparatus of [Fig.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);

[0014] [Fig.3] illustrates, according to a front view, the apparatus of figures 1 and 2 in its right-hand configuration illustrated in [Fig.1];

[0015] [Fig.4] schematically illustrates, according to an exploded view, the apparatus of [Fig.3];

[0016] [Fig.5] illustrates, according to a longitudinal sectional lateral view, 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 second angular position that the rotating part of the styling head can occupy, and first and second actuating members intended to cooperate with said first and second switches according to the position reached by said rotating part, said switches and said actuating members being arranged to permit actuation of each of the switches in an actuation direction that is orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the rotating part of the styling head;

[0017] [Fig.6] illustrates, according to an exploded perspective view, a detail of the particular design of the apparatus which is illustrated in [Fig.5];

[0018] [Fig.7] illustrates, according to a top view, a case for the electric drive module of the rotating part of the styling head according to the particular design of figures 5 and 6;

[0019] [Fig. 8] illustrates, according to a schematic cross-sectional view II (see [Fig. 5]) of the styling head, three specific angular positions that the rotating part of the styling head can occupy within a predetermined angular range of pivoting, according to the specific design of Figures 5 to 7. In [Fig. 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 [Fig. 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 [Fig.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 actuation members do not cooperate with any of the switches; .

[0020] [Fig. 9] illustrates, according to a schematic cross-sectional view II-II (see [Fig. 5]) of the styling head, the three specific angular positions of [Fig. 8]. Made at a different altitude along the axis of rotation of the rotating part of the styling head, which coincides with the longitudinal extension direction of the styling head, [Fig. 9] illustrates the abutment of the housing of the electric drive module of the rotating part with a switch support fixed to the motor housing of a geared motor of the electric drive module to delimit the predetermined angular range. completed pivoting of the rotating part of the styling head;

[0021] [Fig. 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 actuation members are arranged to permit 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 [Fig. 10], the rotating part of the styling head visible in Figures 1 to 4 has been omitted;

[0022] [Fig. 11] illustrates, according to a top view, a case for the electric drive module of the rotating part of the styling head according to the particular design of [Fig. 10];

[0023] [Fig. 12] illustrates, according to a longitudinal sectional view along the axis of rotation of the rotating part of the styling head of the device, a detail of the particular design of figures 10 and 11;

[0024] [Fig. 13] schematically illustrates, according to an exploded view, a detail of the particular design of figures 10 and 12;

[0025] [Fig. 14] illustrates an example of an electrical design diagram of the device shown in Figures 1 to 4. This electrical design diagram can be implemented interchangeably for the particular designs of Figures 5 to 9 and Figures 10 to 13;

[0026] [Fig. 15] schematically illustrates an example of the use and operation of the device in Figures 1 to 4;

[0027] [Fig. 16] schematically illustrates another example of the use and operation of the device of figures 1 to 4;

[0028] [Fig. 17] schematically illustrates yet another example of the use and operation of the device in Figures 1 to 4;

[0029] [Fig. 18] schematically illustrates yet another example of the use and operation of the device of figures 1 to 4.

[0030] The invention relates to a portable, manual electric hair styling device 1. The device 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 device 1 is intended for use in a domestic setting by a user (male or female) without any particular professional hairstyling skills. Preferably, the device 1 is designed and configured so that the user uses the device 1 on themselves, i.e., on their own hair. However, it is perfectly conceivable that the device 1 could be designed and configured for use by the user on the hair of a third party.

[0031] The device 1 comprises a main body 2 including a hand grip 3 and a styling head 4 connected to said main body 2. The main body 2 It therefore includes at least one portion forming a handle 3, by which the device 1 is intended to be held manually for use. The handle 3 thus forms a manual gripping element, intended to be grasped by the user to manipulate the device 1. Advantageously, the main body 2 extends along an average longitudinal extension direction Dl-Dl', between a first end 2A and an opposite second end 2B, and thus has an elongated overall shape. For example, the handle 3 of the device 1 forms a handle, and thus has an elongated shape. In other words, the handle 3 has a slender, long 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 along a direction parallel to, or coinciding with, the average longitudinal extension direction Dl-Dl' of the main body 2.Preferably, the styling head 4 is connected, advantageously in a detachable 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.

[0032] The device 1 is preferably designed to be powered by mains electricity (power supply from the electrical distribution network, under alternating voltage), and may therefore include a power cord 5 (shown truncated in the figures) having at one free end an electrical plug (not shown). Alternatively, the device 1 could include one or more batteries or accumulators, advantageously housed within the main body 2, to provide power to the device 1. Advantageously, the device 1 may include a main power switch 6, which the user can operate at least to alternately switch the device 1 on or off.

[0033] Typically, the styling head 4 can extend longitudinally along an average longitudinal extension direction D2-D2'. The styling head 4 of the device 1 includes a mechanical hair engagement element 7 C, which is intended to come into contact with the hair C (in use of the device 1) to help shape said hair C. Designed and configured to interact mechanically with the hair C, in particular to brush, set, style and / or comb it, the mechanical hair engagement element 7 C can typically include a plurality of bristles, tufts of bristles and / or prongs, which are arranged projecting from an external surface of the styling head 4.In use of the device 1, the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair C can thus be applied on 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 device 1, the hairs and / or bristles 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.

[0034] Advantageously, as in the example illustrated in the figures, the hair styling appliance 1 may include a blower module 8 (or "motor-fan unit"), advantageously integrated, for generating an airflow intended to be blown towards the hair via the styling head 4. The hair styling appliance 1 is then advantageously provided with at least one air inlet 9, through which ambient air can be drawn in by the blower module 8 for blowing towards the user's hair. The blower module 8, which typically includes 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 device 1 advantageously includes a guide channel 11 ([Fig. 5]) formed within the main body 2 to guide and channel the airflow from the blower module 8 to the styling head 4. In return, the styling head 4 includes at least one air outlet 12, which is (or can be) connected to the blower module 8 to allow the airflow generated by the blower module 8 to be ejected from the device 1 towards the user's hair C. For example, the air outlet 12 may include, or be formed by, a plurality of (distinct and spaced apart) air outlets, as illustrated in the figures. Device 1 can thus constitute a blow dryer, for example, allowing the user to use the airflow, advantageously heated, both to dry and to facilitate the styling of hair C. .

[0035] Advantageously, the hair styling appliance 1 may include an electric heating element 13, designed and configured, for example, to raise the temperature of the airflow generated by the blower module 8 and / or to heat at least one area of ​​the styling head 4, and preferably then an area of ​​the styling head 4 that is intended to come into contact with the hair C during use of the appliance 1. Optionally, the electric heating element 13 may be designed and configured to raise (directly) the temperature of the airflow generated by the blower module 8 and to indirectly heat an area of ​​the styling head 4 that, during operation of the appliance 1, is in contact with the airflow thus heated. In the case where the electric heating element 13 is at least intended to raise the temperature of the airflow generated by the In the blower module 8, the electric heating element 13 is advantageously arranged to be interposed in the airflow, upstream of the air outlet 12 of the styling head 4. As in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the electric heating element 13 can advantageously be positioned inside the air guide channel 11 provided in the main body 2 ([Fig. 5]). Alternatively, the electric heating element 13 can be housed inside the styling head 4, particularly 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 includes, for example, at least one electric heating resistor 14A, 14B, 14C, 14E formed of an electrically conductive wire (not shown) wound around an insulating core and / or at least one thermistor with a "Positive Temperature Coefficient" (PTC). The device 1 can then constitute a heated brush or a blowing heated brush, for example.

[0036] Optionally, as in the example illustrated in the figures, the device 1 may include an articulation system 15 for 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 Dl-Dl' of the main body 2 and the average longitudinal extension direction D2-D2' of the styling head 4 form a straight angle with each other, i.e., said directions are coincident or parallel, so that the styling head 4 is thus aligned with the main body 2 of the device 1 ([Fig. 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 an angle α other than a straight angle, so that the styling head 4 and the main body 2 of the device 1 form an elbow, one being inclined relative to the other ([Fig. 2], so-called elbowed configuration). For example, said angle α is between 100° and 170°, preferably between 130° and 170°, and advantageously equal to 150°.

[0037] The hair styling device 1 may then advantageously include a locking device that is movable between a free position, allowing the styling head 4 to move between the first and second positions, and conversely, a locked position in which the styling head 4 is locked 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 implemented as described in French patent application FR-3 102 347 AL. The implementation of such an articulation The articulated styling head 4 significantly improves the ergonomics of the styling appliance 1, particularly for a user operating the appliance on themselves. The user can use the appliance 1 in the first position to style the hair on the sides of their head. Alternatively, the user can position the styling head 4 of the appliance 1 in the second position to style the hair at the back and / or sides of their head. The fact that the main body 2 (and therefore, advantageously, the hand grip 3) and the styling head 4 are angled relative to each other prevents the user from having to bend their arm (i.e., raise their shoulder to extend their arm perpendicular to their body while fully bending their forearm) or wrist to reach the hair at the back of their head.Eliminating this complex and uncomfortable movement greatly improves the ergonomics of the device 1 and prevents any corresponding pain for the user. Furthermore, when styling hair on the top of the head, the user does not need to raise their shoulder and arm (i.e., form a right angle between their arm and body). Indeed, by placing the styling head 4 in the second position, the user can reach the top of their head while keeping their arm and shoulder close to their body.

[0038] The styling head 4 of the device 1 according to the invention comprises a rotating part 16 which is provided with the mechanical hair engagement element 7 C, described above, such that the latter is carried by said rotating part 16 and is therefore fixed to it 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 about an axis A of rotation relative to the main body 2 of the device 1, the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 may, for example, be cylindrical in 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 circumference of the rotating part 16, projecting from an external surface of said rotating part 16.The rotational movement of the rotating part 16 is advantageously a rotational movement over a complete turn, i.e., 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 a complete turn, but only within a certain predefined angular amplitude.

[0039] Advantageously, the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 extends longitudinally along an extension axis that coincides with said axis A of rotation. Optionally, the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 can form a removable accessory, which is thus connected in a separable, detachable manner to the main body 2 of the device 1, so that for example the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 can thus constitute an interchangeable accessory of the device 1.

[0040] The device 1 further includes 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 hand gripping handle 3 (or handle), alternately in a first direction of rotation S Ri 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 SR2).Accordingly, the electric drive module 17 may include an electric motor, or preferably an electric geared motor 18 (i.e., an electric motor coupled to a mechanical gearbox), and advantageously an output shaft 19 to which the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 is connected (or at least capable of being connected) such that a rotation of the output shaft 19 causes a corresponding rotation of the rotating part 16, about the latter's axis of rotation A. Preferably, the output shaft 19 and the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 are rotationally connected to each other via a coupling system, advantageously reversible and detachable. Preferably, particularly with regard to size, the output shaft 19 is rotatable about the axis of rotation A of said rotating part 16.

[0041] 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 hand grip 3 of the device 1, makes it possible in particular to reduce the size of the hand grip 3, in particular its diameter, which improves the ergonomics of the device 1.

[0042] The apparatus 1 according to the invention further comprises: - a device for detecting the direction of forced rotation Srfi 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 - an automatic selection device for a direction of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 from among said first and second directions of rotation SR1, SR2 according to the direction of forced rotation Srfi, Srf2 detected by said detection device.

[0043] 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 set into forced rotation, about its axis A of rotation, under the effect of a resistive mechanical force, 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" we advantageously mean here a rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4, while the electric drive module 17 is at rest (electric drive module 17 not electrically powered) and therefore does not positively drive said rotating part 16 into rotation.

[0044] In return, the automatic selection device for a direction of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 is therefore a device designed and configured to place the device 1 in a particular state making it able to operate either according to a first electrical operating mode corresponding to a rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 in 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 in its second direction of rotation SR2, depending on the direction of forced rotation SRFi, SRF2 detected by said detection device.In other words, the automatic selection device is therefore designed and configured to automatically select, from among 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 set to rotate when the device 1 is in operation, or at the very least in which the rotating part 16 is allowed to be set to rotate, according to the direction of forced rotation SRFi, SRF2 detected by the detection device.Typically, the automatic selection device automatically selects the first direction of rotation SR[ when the detection device detects a forced rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 in a first forced 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, opposite to the first forced direction Srpi. 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 automatically selected direction Sri, SR2.In other words, the automatic selection device performs an automatic pre-selection 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 explained 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).

[0045] Thus, the invention is based on the general principle of detecting a direction of placement forced rotation SRFi, SRF2 of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 about 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 about 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.

[0046] Such a design makes the use of the device 1 according to the invention particularly simple and intuitive, especially for a user without special knowledge of hairdressing, insofar as this design allows an automatic adaptation of the direction of rotation SRi, SR2 of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 of the device 1 in response to a simple gesture of using the device 1 on and against the hair C, without the user needing to have visual contact with the device 1, and with in addition a particularly limited risk (if not totally avoided) of untimely selection of one or the other of the directions of rotation SRi, SR2 of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 of the device 1.

[0047] Thus, when the electric drive module 17 is stopped, and when the user brings the mechanical hair engagement element 7 of the styling head 4 of the device 1 into contact with their own hair C (or with the hair of a third person), by placing the styling head 4 between the hair C and the scalp, and moves the styling head 4 in contact with the hair C to the right side of the user's (or third person's) face / head, from top to bottom (i.e., from the roots of the hair to their tips, as illustrated by a thin arrow in [Fig. 15](a)), the interaction between the hair C and the mechanical hair engagement element 7 tends to force the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 into rotation in the corresponding first direction of forced rotation SRFi (Figures 8(a) and 9(a), and [Fig.l5](a)).This forced rotation is detected by said detection device, which leads to the automatic selection, by the automatic selection device, of the first direction of rotation SR 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 in its first direction of rotation Sri. Preferably, the first direction of rotation Sri is predefined as being opposite to said first direction of forced rotation SRFi. Thus, when the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 is actually set in rotation, the rotating part 16 then rotates in the first direction of rotation Sri thus selected ([Fig.15](b)) and can cause a corresponding wrapping of the hair around the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4.

[0048] Conversely, when the electric drive module 17 is stopped, and when the user brings the styling head 4 of the device 1 into contact with their hair C (or with the hair of a third person), positioning the styling head 4 between the hair C and the scalp, and moves the styling head 4 in contact with the hair to the left side of the user's (or third person's) face / head, from top to bottom (i.e., from the roots of the hair to their tips, as illustrated by a thin arrow in [Fig. 16](a)), the interaction between the hair C and the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair tends to force the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 into rotation in the corresponding second direction of forced rotation, opposite to said first direction of forced rotation SRFi (Figures 8(c) and 9(c), and [Fig.l6](a)).This forced rotation is detected by said detection device, which leads to 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, 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 direction of forced rotation S^. The rotating part 16 can then be rotated according to the second direction of rotation SR2 thus selected ([Fig. 16](b)) and cause a corresponding winding of the hair C around the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4.

[0049] Depending on styling habits and / or the desired hairstyle effect, it is also possible to position the styling head 4 of the device 1 not between the hair C and the scalp, as described above, but on the outside of the hair C, as illustrated in Figures 17 and 18. In this case, when the user applies a pulling force from top to bottom (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 force the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 into rotation. - either in the first direction of forced rotation Srfi (figures 8(a) and 9(a), and [Fig.17](a)), in which case this forced rotation is detected by the detection device, which leads to 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 ([Fig. 17] (b)), - either in the second direction of forced rotation Srf2 (figures 8(c) and 9(c), and [Fig.18]), in which case this forced rotation is detected by the detection device, which leads to 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 ([Fig. 18] (b)).

[0050] The following table summarizes the various possible operating modes of the hair styling device 1 described above, depending on the positioning of its styling head 4 relative to the hair C (Figures 15 to 18). The full advantage of the invention is then clear: it automatically selects the appropriate direction of rotation SRb SR2 based on the position of the styling head 4 of the hair styling device 1, without the user having to determine which direction of rotation to select. This results in a particularly intuitive and easy-to-use hair styling device 1, well-suited for novices (those without specific hairdressing knowledge), and minimizing the risk of hair tangling.

[0051] [Tables 1] Right side of the face Left side of the face Styling head of the hair styling appliance arranged between the hair and scalp First direction of rotation: forced rotation Srm | ï i First direction of i ] ; ï rotation Sri Second direction of forced rotation Sro / Second direction of rotation S® Styling head of the hair styling appliance arranged on the outside of the hair î Second direction of forced rotation Srr 1 / 1 i î :: ï i Second direction of i ] ;i rotation Srs First direction of forced rotation Sm / First direction of rotation Sri;

[0052] 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 way, for example by a simple rectilinear movement of the device 1, or even by simply letting the styling device 1 fall, move, under its own weight, the styling head 4 of the latter being put in 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 give to the rotating part 16 according to the positioning of the styling head 4 in relation to his hair C, since the device 1 systematically selects for 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, which advantageously prevents a risk of knotting / tangling of the hair, while guaranteeing the best result. possible hairstyles.

[0053] 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 rotating part 16 of the styling head 4, which is pivotally mounted relative to the main body 2 within a predetermined angular range along said axis A of rotation such that, when the electric drive module 17 is at rest (i.e., when the electric drive module 17 is not electrically powered), the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 remains capable of pivoting within 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 S RFB SRF2), and - at least one sensor 20A, 20B to detect the attainment of each of the said first and second angular positions by the said rotating part 16.

[0054] Thus, when the electric drive module 17 is stopped and therefore not rotating 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 generates 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, depending on the direction and sense of movement of the styling head 4 relative to the hair C. The detection device may include either a single sensor to detect the attainment of each of said first and second angular positions, or preferably two sensors 20A, 20B to detect each respectively the attainment of one and the other of said first and second angular positions.

[0055] In return, said automatic selection device for 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 allow (but not necessarily to actually control) the 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 first angular position is reached, that is, when the sensor(s) detect that the rotating part 16 occupies said first angular position, and, respectively, - in the second direction of rotation SR2 when the attainment of the second angular position is detected, that is to say when the (or another of) sensor(s) 20A, 20B detects that the rotating part 16 occupies said second angular position.

[0056] The control circuit can be connected to sensor(s) 20A, 20B or include said sensor(s) 20A, 20B.

[0057] Conversely, the control circuit is advantageously designed and configured to prohibit, inhibit, the rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 by the electric drive module 17 - in the second direction of rotation SR2 when the first angular position is reached and, symmetrically, and - in the first direction of rotation SR[ when the second angular position is reached is detected.

[0058] Advantageously, said predetermined angular range is chosen, i.e. fixed by design of the device 1, with an amplitude between 1° and 15°, preferably between 5° and 15°, and for example equal to 10°. In other words, the device 1 is designed and configured so that the passage of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 from the first angular position ([Fig.9](a) for example) to the second angular position ([Fig.9](c) for example), and vice versa from the second angular position to the first angular position, corresponds to a pivoting of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 by an angle between 1° and 15°, preferably between 5° and 15°, and for example equal to 10°, about the axis A of rotation of said rotating part 16.Such an amplitude allows for 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 make a particularly wide brushing gesture and / or pull particularly hard on the hair, nor to modify their intuitive and natural styling movement.

[0059] Advantageously, at least one sensor 20A, 20B, or each of said sensors 20A, 20B in the case of multiple sensors, is arranged inside the styling head 4 of the device 1. This helps, in particular, to limit the size of the main body 2, and especially the portion thereof that forms the handle 3, so as to facilitate the user's grip on the device 1. Furthermore, this simplifies and improves the reliability of the electrical design of the device 1 when the electric drive module 17 is also arranged inside the styling head 4, particularly where the device 1 includes an articulation system 15 for the styling head 4 relative to the main body 2.

[0060] 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 to detect each respectively the attainment of one and the other of the said first and second angular positions of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4, the said first and second sensors 20A, 20B being more specifically switches 21A, 21B, and - a first actuation member 22A, 22A' which cooperates with a first of said switches 21A, 21B when the first angular position is reached ([Fig.8](a) for example), thus causing a change of switching state of said first switch 21A (or "first detection switch") and a second actuation member 22B, 22B' which cooperates with a second of said switches 21A, 21B when the second angular position is reached ([Fig.8](c) for example), thus causing respectively a change of switching state of said second switch 21B (or "second detection switch").

[0061] Advantageously, the first actuation member 22A, 22A' does not cooperate with the first switch 21A when the second angular position is reached ([Fig.8](c) for example), and the second actuation member 22B, 22B' does not cooperate with the second switch 21B when the first angular position is reached ([Fig.8](a) for example).

[0062] The term "switch" advantageously refers to a device designed to interrupt, restore, reverse the direction of an electric current, or to distribute said electric current at will in different circuits. Preferably, as illustrated in the figures, the first and second switches 21A, 21B are electromechanical switches. An electromechanical switch is a switch that allows an electric current to be interrupted, established, or directed between at least two contact terminals by means of an external mechanical action. It should be noted here that an electromechanical switch is a specific type of electromechanical switch that allows an electric current to be alternately interrupted or established between two contact terminals.Advantageously, the first and second switches 21A, 21B 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 21A, 21B 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 that protrudes from the housing and is movable relative to the housing to cause a movement of the internal mechanical contact between said contact position. closed and said contact position open and vice versa, when an external mechanical force is applied to said button 23A, 23B against the spring return force. More advantageously, as in the example illustrated in the figures, said first and second switches 21A, 21B are monostable electromechanical "changeover" 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 contact terminal 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 turn, the first and second actuating members 22A, 22B; 22A', 22B' can, for example, each be formed by a protrusion (or "positive relief") designed to mechanically cooperate with one of the electromechanical switches 21A, 21B, by interaction with the button 23A, 23B of the latter, to cause a change in the switching state of the electromechanical switches 21A, 21B according to the angular position that 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 protrusion, which cooperates with the button 23A of the first switch 21A when the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 occupies said first angular position ([Fig.8](a)), and a second protrusion, which cooperates respectively with the button 23B of the second switch 21B when the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 occupies said second angular position ([Fig.8](c)).

[0063] Alternatively, the first and second switches can be electromagnetic switches (or "Reed Switches (RS)"), and the first and second actuating elements can, for example, each be formed by a permanent magnet. The use of such electromechanical or electromagnetic switches advantageously contributes to greater simplicity and lower design and manufacturing costs for the device 1. Since the first and second sensors 20A, 20B are thus 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 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 previously. The use of switches 21A, 21B of the monostable electromechanical switch type. "Inverters", as envisaged above, further simplifies both the mechanical and electrical design of device 1, and reduces manufacturing costs.

[0064] Of course, other types of sensors can be considered alternatively, although less preferably. For example, the first and second sensors could be optical fork sensors (“optosensors” or “optoswitches”), one arm of which carries an optical emitter and the other arm carries an optical receiver. The first and second actuation elements could then typically take the form of occluding elements positioned between the arms of the optical fork sensors to selectively interrupt a detection light beam emitted by the optical emitter and directed towards the optical receiver. In this case, the control circuit for the automatic selection of the electrical operating mode could then possibly include two H-bridge transistors, each controlled at its input by one of the optical fork sensors.

[0065] Preferably, the first and second actuation members 22A, 22B; 22A', 22B' are arranged inside the styling head 4 of the device 1, particularly in the preferred case where the first and second switches 21A, 21B (first and second sensors 20A, 20B) are themselves arranged inside the styling head 4, as illustrated in the figures. This advantageously simplifies the mechanical design of the device 1.

[0066] According to a preferred embodiment 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 pivotally movably relative to the main body 2 within said predetermined angular range along the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4. Typically constituting a housing for the electric geared motor 18 of the electric drive module 17, the motor housing 24 is thus advantageously fixedly connected 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 above, said rotating part 16 is connected such that a rotation of the output shaft 19 causes a corresponding rotation of said rotating part 16.In this variant, the output shaft 19 is advantageously mounted to rotate about the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4. In addition, the electric drive module 17 is designed and configured so that the output shaft 19 is substantially immobilized in rotation relative to the motor housing 24 when the electric drive module 17 is at rest (i.e. not electrically powered), so that a pivoting of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 in said angular range. A predetermined rotation (under the effect of forced rotation) causes a corresponding pivoting of the motor housing 24 about the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4. The electric drive module 17 is therefore advantageously designed and configured to resist a forced rotation of the output shaft 19 when the electric drive module 17 is stationary. For example, the output shaft 19 can be an output shaft of the gearbox of the electric geared motor 18, and its rotation can then advantageously be prevented by frictional forces generated by gears of the gearbox of the electric geared motor 18, which oppose free rotation of the output shaft 19 when the electric drive module 17 is stationary.In this respect, the electric drive module 17 can typically include a housing 25, 25', for example cylindrical, which is fixed fixed relative to the main body 2 of the device 1, and within which said motor housing 24 is arranged to pivot. For example, the housing 25, 25' can have a base 26, 26' forming a male recess designed and configured to cooperate without possibility of relative rotation with a corresponding female recess carried by the main body 2 of the device 1. The case 25, 25' can be provided within at least one pair of opposing stops 27A, 27B, 27A', 27B' which mechanically delimit the permissible pivoting range (predetermined angular range) of the motor housing 24 along said axis A of rotation.

[0067] In this preferred variant, said first and second com Switches 21A, 21B are preferably fixed fixed to rotate relative to the motor housing 24, while the first and second actuating members 22A, 22B; 22A', 22B' are preferably arranged fixed relative to the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4. Unlike the first and second switches 21A, 21B, the first and second actuating members 22A, 22B; 22A', 22B' are therefore not mounted to rotate about the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4. This simplifies and improves the reliability of the electrical design of the device 1, particularly when the first and second switches 21A, 21B are themselves advantageously arranged inside the styling head 4.In this respect, the electric drive module 17 may advantageously include a switch support 28, 28', to which the first and second switches 21A, 21B are attached, which is fixed 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' may form a single piece, or conversely, form two separate pieces fixed to each other. Being mounted movably at pi. When rotating along said axis A of rotation inside the housing 25, 25', the motor cradle 29, 29' advantageously forms an oscillating cradle integral with the motor housing 24, 24' and the switch support 28, 28', pivoting within said predetermined angular range. Advantageously, the motor cradle 29, 29' and / or the switch support 28, 28' comprise 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' provided in the housing 25, 25' to mechanically delimit the amplitude of said predetermined angular range.

[0068] According to a design sub-variant illustrated by example in Figures 5 to 9, the first and second switches 21A, 21B are monostable electromechanical switches as envisaged above, advantageously identical, and said first and second switches 21A, 21B and said first and second actuation members 22A, 22B are arranged to permit actuation of each of the first and second switches 21A, 21B in an actuation direction that is orthogonal to the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 (the “radial” arrangement).According to this sub-variant, the first and second switches 21 A, 21B and the first and second actuation members 22A, 22B are advantageously arranged so that the actuation of the first and second switches 21A, 21B, by the first and second actuation members 22A, 22B respectively, is achieved by a mechanical force which results from the interaction between the first and second actuation members 22A, 22B and the buttons 23A, 23B of the first and second switches 21 A, 21B, and which is exerted in a direction inscribed in a plane orthogonal to the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4. Such an arrangement offers in particular the advantage of a limited axial footprint.Advantageously, the first and second switches 21A, 21B can be arranged one above the other along the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 16, and for example in a "head-to-tail" arrangement, with their respective buttons 23A, 23B oriented opposite to 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 to form a single protrusion, and which are arranged projecting from an internal surface of the case 25, opposite the first and second switches 21A, 21B.

[0069] According to another design sub-variant illustrated by example in Figures 10 to 13, the first and second switches 21A, 21B are monostable electromechanical switches as envisaged above, advantageously identical, and said first and second switches 21 A, 21B and said first and second actuation members 22A', 22B' are arranged to permit actuation of each of the first and second switches 21A, 21B in an actuation direction which is parallel to the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 (the "axial" arrangement).According to this sub-variant, the first and second switches 21 A, 21B and the first and second actuation members 22A', 22B' are thus advantageously arranged so that the actuation of the first and second switches 21A, 21B, respectively by the first and second actuation members 22A', 22B', is achieved by a mechanical force which results from the interaction between the first and second actuation members 22'A, 22B' and the buttons 23A, 23B of the first and second switches 21 A, 21B, and which is exerted in a direction inscribed in a plane parallel to the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4.

[0070] Advantageously, as illustrated in particular in Figures 10, 12 and 13, the first and second switches 21A, 21B can be arranged at the same height along the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 16, preferably on either side of said axis A of rotation. Such an alternative arrangement offers, in particular, the advantage of a limited radial footprint. It also advantageously reduces mechanical stress on the first and second switches 21A, 21B during the pivoting of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 from one of said first and second angular positions to the other, thereby increasing the reliability and service life of the first and second switches 21A, 21B.

[0071] It proves particularly advantageous to also provide, in this sub-variant: - that the first and second switches 21A, 21B are arranged to move in a straight line along the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4, and - that the styling head 4 includes an elastic return element 31, such as for example a compression spring, designed and configured to exert an automatic axial approach force on the first and second switches 21 A, 21B in the direction of a surface carrying said first and second actuating elements 22A', 22B'.

[0072] This particularly advantageous configuration allows for the automatic compensation of any dimensional manufacturing tolerances in the parts of device 1. In particular, this configuration allows for the automatic compensation of any axial play that the button 23A, 23B of the first and second switches 21A, 21B may exhibit due to more or less significant manufacturing dimensional tolerances. This ensures particularly reliable operation. and repeatable operation of the first and second switches 21A, 21B, including using conventional switches readily available on the market. Furthermore, when the electric drive module 17 and the first and second switches 21A, 21B are advantageously all arranged inside the styling head 4, this simplifies and improves the reliability of the electrical wiring of the first and second switches 21A, 21B and the electric gearmotor 18.

[0073] In this respect, as illustrated in figures 10 to 13, the switch support 28', to which the first and second switches 21A, 21B are attached, can be fixed to the motor housing 24' without possibility of relative rotation, by means of a motor cradle 29' in which the motor housing 24 is received to slide purely (no relative rotation) in a direction parallel to, and preferably coinciding with, the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4. As described above, said motor cradle 24 is itself mounted to pivot about said axis A of rotation inside the housing 25', and advantageously forms an oscillating cradle fixed to the motor housing 24 and the pivoting switch support 28' in said predetermined angular range.The buttons 23A, 23B of the first and second switches 21A, 21B can advantageously be oriented towards 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 protrusions, such as domes of material, distinct and separated from each other which are arranged projecting from said surface. The elastic element 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 exert an automatic axial approach force on the first and second switches 21 A, 21 B towards the protrusions arranged on the surface of the bottom of the case 25'.

[0074] Preferably, the device 1 includes an automatic return element 33, 33' for automatically returning the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 to a third angular position intermediate between the first and second angular positions when the 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 user's hair C and the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair, the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 advantageously returns automatically from the first angular position or from the second angular position to the intermediate third angular position, referred to as the rest position. The force and amplitude of the forced rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 required to detect said rotation are Forced rotation upon reaching either of the first and second angular positions is thus advantageously reduced, further improving the ease and comfort of use of the device 1. More preferably, the third angular position is angularly midway between the first and second angular positions within the predetermined angular range. The pivoting amplitude 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 rotating part 16 between the second and third angular positions.

[0075] Preferably, the self-returning member 33, 33' is an elastic self-returning member. For example, the self-returning member 33 may be a leaf spring, as in the particular design illustrated in Figures 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 whose two opposing free ends bear against corresponding surfaces provided inside the housing 25 of the electric drive module 17. Alternatively, as in the other particular design illustrated in Figures 10 to 13, the self-returning member 33' may be a U-shaped spring (or hairpin spring), one belly of the U being fixed immobilized to the housing 25', and each of the legs of the U being arranged to bear against ribs of the motor cradle 29'.Of course, other suitable conformations, configurations, and arrangements of the automatic return element 33, 33' can be considered. By means of an appropriate selection and dimensioning of the elastic automatic return element 33, 33' (length, stiffness constant, etc.), it is advantageously possible to precisely adjust, during the design of the device 1, the forced rotation force required by the user to move the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 from the third angular position to either of the first and second angular positions.Thus, it is possible to define a minimum value for the force required to initiate rotation that is low enough to prevent the user from having to pull too hard on the hair, which could be painful, while still being high enough to avoid excessive sensitivity that could lead to an unintentional change in the direction of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4. In practice, the definition of this minimum force value through the selection and dimensioning of the elastic automatic return element 33, 33' may depend on the overall dimensions of the device 1 and its styling head 4, as well as the presence of any frictional forces that could oppose the pivoting of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 within the predetermined angular range.

[0076] Advantageously, the device 1 (and more specifically said electrical or electronic control circuit of the electric drive module 17) is designed and configured to inhibit, i.e., to prevent, 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 21A, 21B), of the attainment of either 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 power supply to the electric drive module 17 so that the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 cannot be rotated by the electric drive module 17 in either of said directions of rotation.This contributes to safer, more efficient and more economical use of the device 1.

[0077] Advantageously, as in the example illustrated in the figures, the device 1 may include a manual control element 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 element 34 for "normal" rotation), and preferably, therefore, in the direction of rotation Sri, Sr2 that is automatically selected by said automatic selection device. Thus, while the automatic selection device can select the direction of rotation SRb SR2 in which the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 is allowed to rotate, the actual rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 can nevertheless be independently inhibited / triggered by the user via said manual control element 34.Thus, the function of selecting the direction of rotation SRi, SR2 is advantageously independent of the function of actually rotating the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 in the selected direction SRi, SR2. As explained previously, the user therefore does not need to worry about the actual direction of rotation. Indeed, since the appropriate direction of rotation SRb SR2 is automatically selected by the automatic selection device, the user only needs to manually operate the manual control 34, very simply and even without visual inspection of said manual control 34, for the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 to then effectively rotate in the appropriate selected direction SRi, SR2.Typically, the manual control organ 34 for normal rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 may include an electrical switch 35 (or "normal rotation switch") connected to a manual actuation button 36 arranged at the handle 3 of the device 1 by. 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 automatic selection device for the direction of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 of the hair styling appliance 1.

[0078] Alternatively, or preferably in a complementary manner as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the hair styling appliance 1 may advantageously include an (other) manual control element 37 for controlling the 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 SRb SR2 automatically selected by the automatic selection device. Thus, a manual action by the user against said (other) manual control element 37 may advantageously trigger the rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 in said second direction of rotation SR2 when said first direction SRi of rotation has been automatically selected, and vice versa.The hair styling appliance 1 is therefore advantageously designed and configured so that actuation of said (other) manual control element 37 results in a reversal of the selected direction of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 (manual control element 37 for "reverse" rotation). This additional technical feature advantageously provides the appliance 1 with a hair "detangling" function, which is particularly useful for the user in the event that rotating 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 element 37 for reversing the rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 may include an (other) electrical switch 38 (or "reverse rotation switch") connected to an (other) manual actuation button 39, arranged for example at the handle 3 of the appliance 1 so as to be accessible by a finger of the hand of the user holding the appliance by the handle 3, and electrically connected to the electric drive module 17 and to the automatic selection device for the direction of rotation of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 of the styling appliance 1.

[0079] In the preferred case where, as illustrated in the figures, the device 1 advantageously comprises the two manual control elements 34, 37 mentioned above, the latter are advantageously designed and configured so that they cannot be operated simultaneously by the user. For example, as illustrated by way of example in Figures 1 to 5, the respective manual actuation buttons 36, 39 of the manual control elements 34, 37 may comprise a rigid mechanical part common to said manual actuation buttons 36, 39 and toggle mounting to prevent simultaneous depressment of said manual actuation buttons 36, 39 under the effect of pressure exerted on them by a finger of the user, and thus prevent joint manual actuation of the two manual control elements 34, 37.

[0080] To further clarify the implementation of some of the functional characteristics described above, [Fig. 14] illustrates an example of an electrical design diagram for the device 1 shown in the figures. This electrical design has the particular advantage of being especially simple, robust, and inexpensive to implement. The device 1 is designed to be powered by mains electricity (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 advantageously DC electric motors. Accordingly, diode bridges 40, 41 are provided to ensure full-wave rectification to power each of the DC electric motors 10, 18.These diode bridges 40, 41 could be omitted if the device 1 is intended to be powered by a direct current source. The heating element 13 of the device 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 powered, via their respective diode bridges 40, 41, by bypassing the power supply circuit of the electrical resistors 14A-14E.

[0081] In this example, the main switch 6 of the device is a three-position selector switch, which is connected to the electrical resistors 14A-14E and the diode bridges 40, 41 that supply the electric motor 10 of the blower module 8 and the electric geared motor 18 of the electric drive module 13 of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4. The normal rotation switch 35 and the reverse rotation switch 38 are monostable electromechanical "reversing" switches, advantageously conforming to the general description of such switches given previously. Advantageously included in the control circuit of the electric drive module 17, the first and second switches 21A, 21B (detection switches) are also monostable electromechanical "reversing" 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 one side to each other, and on the other side to a "common" terminal of the normal rotation switch 35; - the "normally closed" terminals are electrically connected on one side to each other, and on the other side to a "common" terminal of the reverse rotation switch 38.

[0082] 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 diode bridge 41 supplying the electric geared 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 diode bridge 41 supplying the electric geared motor 18.

[0083] In the diagram of [Fig. 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 (non-actuated 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 (non-actuated state). The illustrated switching state of the first and second detection switches 21A, 22B corresponds to an absence of detection of forced rotation (non-actuated state), i.e., to an angular position of the rotating part 16 of the styling head 4 that is neither the said first angular position nor the said second angular position, but which preferably corresponds to the said third angular position intermediate between these two.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.

[0084] The table below summarizes, in conjunction with the electrical diagram in [Fig. 14], the automatically selected direction of rotation and the actual 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 due to the interaction between the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair and said hair, which is detected by the first and second switches 21A, 21B (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 main switch 6 is in a switching state in which at least the diode bridge 41 supplying the electric geared motor 18 is effectively energized.

[0085] [Tables2] § State of this cemmsttaitan § Direction of forced rotation detected § «Aycufi ' S«m7 direction of forced rotation î roWmn (AüÀCBn / t Direction of effective rotation <AüCUA? Sm rS-s) | | Premier commutateur deaétêctien Deuxième commutateur de détection Commutateur de miss en rotation normate Commutateur de miss en rotation inversés [ Aucun [ Aiscœ Aucun § Mou acuui> Not activated Not activated Not activated Not activated Admitt Not activated \ 1 ! > è N ri tiw V IL None None None | § AviCüî' ; AUC3J?' ; § Ss^j: I ÀCiMKi* Not activated Not activated \tf "il § J ! SsS! ........................- Not activated Activated rvji' trié Ss' i Sk- j S»! Ac^cnn^ Not activated Not activated Subscriber ^c?; [ SS3 J § Activated Not activated Not activated Not activated Subscriber 1 j Not activated Activated Subscriber MCA S";: ; sj Not activated AcWstsè Not activated Actso îînë ......................................f Sa? I $Rï S .

[0086] Obviously, other suitable electrical or electronic designs may be considered for the purposes sought, depending in particular on the choice of general power supply of the device (direct or alternating current), the choice of the sensor(s) 20A, 20B (number, type, etc.), the choice of the electric geared motor 18 (direct or alternating current), etc.

Claims

Demands

1. A portable electric hair styling device (1) comprising a main body (2) including a hand grip (3), a styling head (4) connected to said main body (2) and comprising a rotating part (16) which is provided with a mechanical hair 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 device (1) being characterized in that it comprises a device for detecting a direction of forced rotation (Srh, Srf2) of the rotating part (16) under the effect of a mechanical force exerted by the hair (C) against said mechanical hair engagement element (7),and an automatic selection device for the direction of rotation of the rotating part (16) of the styling head (4) from among said first and second directions of rotation (S Ri, SR2) according to the direction of forced rotation (Srh, Srf2) detected.

2. Device (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.

3. Device (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.

4. Apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: - said detection device comprises • said rotating part (16) of the styling head (4), which is pivotally mounted relative to the main body (2) within a predetermined angular range about said axis (A) of rotation such that, when the The electric drive module (17) is stopped, the rotating part (16) of the styling head (4) remains capable of pivoting within said predetermined angular range, in said first direction of forced rotation (SRFi) towards a first angular position and in said 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), and • at least one sensor (20A, 20B) to detect the attainment of each of said first and second angular positions,- said automatic selection device for 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 electric drive module (17) to allow rotation of the styling head (4) in the first direction of rotation (Sri) when the first angular position is reached and in the second direction of rotation (SR2) when the second angular position is reached.

5. Apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said predetermined angular range has an amplitude between 1° and 15°, preferably between 5° and 15°, and for example equal to 10°

6. 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 rotating part (16) of the styling head (4) to a third angular position which is intermediate, and preferably medial, to said first and second angular positions when said mechanical force exerted by the hair (C) ceases.

7. Device (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 drive module electrical (17) in the absence of detection by said at least one sensor (20A, 20B) of the attainment of one or the other of said first and second angular positions.

8. Device (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).

9. Device (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 attainment of one and the other of said first and second angular positions, said first and second sensors (20A, 20B) being switches (21A, 21B), preferably electromechanical switches, and - a first actuating member (22A, 22A') which cooperates with a first of said switches (21A, 21B) when the first angular position is attained and a second actuating member (22B; 22B') which cooperates with a second of said switches (21A, 21B) when the second angular position is attained.

10. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electric drive module (17) is arranged inside the styling head (4).

11. Device according to claims 9 and 10, characterized in that - the electric drive module (17) comprises a motor housing (24) which is movable and pivotally mounted relative to the main body (2) within said predetermined angular range about the axis (A) of rotation of the rotating part (16) of the styling head (4), said electric drive module (17) comprising an output shaft (19) which is movable and rotatable about the axis (A) of rotation of said rotating part (16), said rotating part (16) being connected to the output shaft (19) such that a rotation of the output shaft (19) causes a corresponding rotation of said rotating part (16), the output shaft (19) being fixed and rotatable relative to the motor housing (24, 24') when the drive module electric (17) is stopped, - said first and second switches (21A, 21B) being fixed immobile in rotation relative to said motor housing (24, 24'), said first and second actuation members (22A, 22B ; 22A', 22B') being arranged immobile relative to the axis (A) of rotation of said rotating part (16).

12. Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 10 and 11, characterized in that the first and second switches (21A, 21B) are monostable electromechanical switches, and preferably reversing monostable electromechanical switches.

13. Device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said first and second switches (21A, 21B) and said first and second actuation members (22A, 22B) are arranged to permit actuation of each of the first and second switches (21A, 21B) in an actuation direction which is orthogonal to the axis (A) of rotation of the rotating part (16) of the styling head (4).

14. Device (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that said first and second switches (21A, 21B) and said first and second actuation members (22A', 22B') are arranged to permit actuation of each of the first and second switches (21A, 21B) in an actuation direction which is parallel to the axis (A) of rotation of the rotating part (16) of the styling head (4).

15. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that - the first and second switches (21A, 21B) are arranged movable in rectilinear translation along the axis (A) of rotation of the rotating part (16) of the styling head (4), - said styling head (4) comprising an elastic return member to exert an automatic axial approach force of the first and second switches (21A, 21B) in the direction of a surface carrying said first and second actuating members (22A', 22B').

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