Hair styling tool with rotating head, automatic selection of head rotation direction, and detangling assistance.

Abstract

Hair styling appliance with rotating head, automatic selection of the head's direction of rotation, and detangling assistance. The invention relates to a hair styling appliance (1) comprising a head (4) with a rotating part (15) provided with a mechanical hair engagement element (7), a drive module for the rotating part, and a control system for the drive module, which includes a device for detecting a direction of forced rotation of the rotating part by interaction between the hair and the mechanical hair engagement element, and a manual control member (34) for triggering rotation of the rotating part in a direction opposite to the detected direction of forced rotation. The control system is designed to automatically trigger rotation in the detected direction of forced rotation if the control member is not activated. Hair styling appliances. Figure for the abstract: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: Hair styling device with rotating head, automatic selection of the direction of rotation of the head and detangling assistance

[0001] The present invention relates to the general technical field of hair styling devices, for example for home use, and more specifically to the field of portable hair styling devices 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, 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, and a control system for the operation of the electric drive module.

[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 control of the rotation of 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. Furthermore, given that Because of this difficulty in identifying the correct direction of rotation, there is a risk of unintentionally rotating the rotating part of the styling head in a direction that tends to generate a tangle of hair around the rotating part and the mechanical hair engagement element.

[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, while being pleasant and safe, in particular 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 hairdressing device of particularly simple construction, and whose manufacture is relatively easy and whose costs are controlled.

[0009] The objects assigned to the invention are achieved using 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, 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, and a control system for the operation of the electric drive module, the device being characterized in that said control system comprises: - a device for detecting the direction of forced rotation of the rotating part of the styling head under the effect of a mechanical force exerted by the hair against said mechanical hair engagement element, - a control device that can be manually activated by a user to trigger the rotation of the rotating part of the styling head in the opposite direction to the direction of forced rotation detected, said control system being designed and configured to automatically trigger, in the absence of manual activation of said first control element, a rotation of the rotating part of the styling head in a direction of rotation corresponding to said direction of forced rotation detected.

[0010] 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 attached drawings, given solely by way of illustrative and non-limiting examples, among which: - [Fig. 1] [Fig. 1] illustrates, from a front view, an embodiment of a hair styling device 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 is in a first position relative to the main body of the device (right-hand configuration); - [Fig. 2] [Fig. 2] illustrates, in a side view, the device of [Fig. 1], which is shown here in a different configuration, in which the styling head is in a second position relative to the main body of the device (angled configuration); - [Fig. 3] [Fig. 3] illustrates, in a longitudinal sectional side view, the device of Figures 1 and 2, in its straight configuration. The control element, which can be manually activated by a user to trigger a rotation of the rotating part of the styling head in the opposite direction to the detected forced rotation direction, is shown here deactivated, with the manual activation button in the unpressed position; - [Fig.4] [Fig.4] illustrates, according to a longitudinal sectional side view, the device of figures 1 to 3, in its right-hand configuration. The control element is this time shown activated, the manual actuation button being in the pressed position; - [Fig.5] [Fig.5] illustrates, according to a partially exploded perspective side view, the apparatus of figures 1 to 4; - [Fig.6] [Fig.6] schematically illustrates, according to an exploded front view, the apparatus of figures 1 to 5; - [Fig.7] [Fig.7] illustrates, according to a truncated 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 the styling head of the device of figures 1 to 6, in which the device for detecting a direction of forced rotation of said rotating part includes first and second optical fork sensors, as sensors of a first and second angular positions that the rotating part of the styling head can occupy; - [Fig.8] [Fig.8] illustrates, according to an exploded perspective view, a detail of the particular design illustrated in [Fig.7]; - [Fig. 9] [Fig. 9] illustrates, according to a schematic cross-sectional view II (see [Fig. 7]) 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 7 and 8. In [Fig. 9](a), the rotating part occupies a first angular position, in which a first activation / deactivation element cooperates with the first optical fork sensor. In [Fig. 9](c), the rotating part occupies a second angular position, in which a The first activation / deactivation element cooperates with the second optical fork sensor. In [Fig. 9](b), the rotating part occupies a third angular position, intermediate between the first and second angular positions, in which the activation / deactivation elements do not cooperate with either of the optical fork sensors; - [Fig. 10] [Fig. 10] illustrates, according to a schematic sectional view II-II (see [Fig. 7]) of the styling head, the three specific angular positions of [Fig. 9]. Positioned 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. 10] illustrates the butting of a housing of the electric drive module with a motor cradle attached to the motor housing of a geared motor of the electric drive module to delimit the predetermined angular range of pivoting of the rotating part of the styling head; - [Fig. 11] [Fig. 11] illustrates, in a truncated longitudinal sectional side view, the apparatus of Figures 1 to 6 according to another particular design, in which the sensing device comprises first and second switches, as sensors of the first and second angular positions, and first and second activation / deactivation members intended to cooperate with the switches according to the position reached by said rotating part, said switches and activation / deactivation members being arranged to permit actuation of the switches in an actuation direction that is orthogonal to the axis of rotation of said rotating part. A portion of the hairs / pins of the mechanical hair engagement element has been omitted; - [Fig. 12] [Fig. 12] illustrates, according to an exploded perspective view, a detail of the particular design illustrated in [Fig. 11]; - [Fig. 13] [Fig. 13] illustrates, according to a schematic cross-sectional view (cf. [Fig. 11]) 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 11 and 12. In [Fig. 13](a), the rotating part occupies a first angular position, in which the first activation / deactivation element cooperates with the first switch. In [Fig. 9](c), the rotating part occupies a second angular position, in which the second activation / deactivation element cooperates with the second switch. In [Fig. 9](b), the rotating part occupies a third angular position, intermediate between the first and second angular positions, in which the said activation / deactivation elements do not cooperate with any of the said switches; - [Fig. 14] [Fig. 14] illustrates, according to a schematic cross-sectional view II'-II' (see [Fig. 11]) of the styling head, the three specific angular positions of [Fig. 13]. Positioned at a different altitude along the axis of rotation of the rotating part of the styling head, confused with the longitudinal extension direction of the styling head, [Fig. 14] illustrates the butting of a housing of the electric drive module with a motor cradle attached to the motor housing of a geared motor of the electric drive module to delimit the predetermined angular range of pivoting of the rotating part of the styling head; - [Fig. 15] [Fig. 15] illustrates, according to an exploded perspective view, a detail of another particular design of the apparatus of figures 1 to 6, different from that illustrated in figures 11 to 14 in that the said switches and actuation members are arranged to allow an 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; - [Fig. 16] [Fig. 16] illustrates, from 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. 15]; - [Fig. 17] [Fig. 17] illustrates, according to a longitudinal cross-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 15 and 16; - [Fig. 18] [Fig. 18] schematically illustrates, according to an exploded view, a detail of the particular design of figures 15 to 17; - [Fig. 19] [Fig. 19] illustrates an example of an electrical design diagram of a device according to the invention, which can be implemented for the particular design illustrated in particular in figures 7 to 10; - [Fig.20] [Fig.20] schematically illustrates an example of the use and operation of the device shown in figures 1 to 6; - [Fig.21] [Fig.21] schematically illustrates another example of the use and operation of the device in figures 1 to 6; - [Fig.22] [Fig.22] schematically illustrates yet another example of the use and operation of the device in figures 1 to 6; - [Fig.23] [Fig.23] schematically illustrates yet another example of the use and operation of the device shown in figures 1 to 6.

[0011] 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 hairdressing 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 is designed and configured for use by the user on the hair of a third person.

[0012] 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 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 hand 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 a second opposite end 2B, and therefore has a generally elongated 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 as to be able to be grasped with the whole hand.Advantageously, as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the handle 3 extends longitudinally in a direction parallel to, or 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.

[0013] 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.

[0014] 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 shape said hair C, or at least to assist in shaping 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 comprising a plurality of hairs, tufts of hairs and / or bristles and / or teeth, which are arranged in projection 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 and / or teeth 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.

[0015] Advantageously, as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the hair styling device 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 device 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 (Figures 3 and 4) arranged inside 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 (distinctive and spaced apart) air outlets, as illustrated in the figures.Advantageously, said air blowing orifices are arranged between bristles and / or pins and / or teeth of the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair C, so as to blow the airflow as close as possible to the hair C in contact with the mechanical engagement element 7. The device 1 can then thus constitute a blow brush, for example, allowing the user to use the airflow, advantageously heated, both to dry and to facilitate the shaping of the hair C.

[0016] Advantageously, the hair styling device 1 may include a heating element The electric heating element may be 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, preferably an area of ​​the styling head 4 intended to come into contact with the hair C during use of the appliance 1. Optionally, the electric heating element 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 which, during operation of the appliance 1, is in contact with the airflow thus heated. If the electric heating element is intended at least to raise the temperature of the airflow generated by the blower module 8, the electric heating element 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 (not shown) can advantageously be positioned inside the air guide channel 11 provided in the main body 2 (Figures 3 and 4). Alternatively, the electric heating element 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 is typically an electric heating element operating on the principle of the Joule effect, and thus includes, for example, at least one resistor. heating electric resistance 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E formed of an electrically conductive wire wound around an insulating core and / or at least one thermistor with a "Positive Temperature Coefficient" (PTC)). Device 1 can then constitute a heated brush or a heated blower brush, for example.

[0017] Optionally, as in the example illustrated in the figures, the device 1 may include an articulation system 14 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] in particular, the so-called straight configuration), and - a second 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 an angle α different from the flat 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 a is between 100° and 170°, preferably between 130° and 170°, and advantageously equal to 150°.

[0018] The hair styling device 1 may 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 A1. Implementing such an articulation of the styling head 4 significantly improves the ergonomics of the hair styling device 1, particularly for a user operating the device 1 on themselves. Indeed, the user can use the device 1 in the first position to style the hair on the side of their head.The user can also place the styling head 4 of the device 1 in the second position to style 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 then 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 backward) 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 the hair on the top of their 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.

[0019] The styling head 4 of the device 1 according to the invention comprises a rotating part 15 which is provided with the mechanical hair engagement element 7 C, described above, such that the latter is carried by said rotating part 15 and is therefore fixed to it in rotation. Thus, a rotation of the rotating part 15 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 15 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 15 and along all or part of an outer periphery of the rotating part 15, projecting from an external surface of said rotating part 15. The The rotational movement of the rotating part 15 is advantageously a rotational movement of at least one complete turn, that is to say, at least 360°. However, without departing from the scope of the invention, it could be envisaged that the rotational movement of the rotating part 15 is angularly limited, that is to say, that the rotation does not occur through a complete turn, but only within a certain predefined angular amplitude. Advantageously, the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 extends longitudinally along an extension axis that coincides with said axis A of rotation. Optionally, the rotating part 15 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 15 of the styling head 4 can thus constitute an interchangeable accessory of the device 1.

[0020] The device 1 further includes an electric drive module 16 for driving the rotating part 15 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 16 may include an electric motor, or preferably an electric geared motor 17 (i.e., an electric motor coupled to a mechanical gearbox), and advantageously an output shaft 18 to which the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 is connected (or at least capable of being connected) such that a rotation of the output shaft 18 causes a corresponding rotation of the rotating part 15, about the latter's axis of rotation A. Preferably, the output shaft 18 and the rotating part 15 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 18 is rotatable about the axis of rotation A of said rotating part 15.The hair styling appliance 1 also includes a control system for the operation of the electric drive module 16, which is therefore connected to the electric drive module 16 to control the operation of the latter, and in particular to control the rotation by the latter of the rotating part 15 of the blow-dry head 4 in the said first direction of rotation Sri and alternatively in the said second direction of rotation SR2. .

[0021] The electric drive module 16 is preferably arranged inside the styling head 4. Thus, the electric drive module 16 can advantageously be connected to the main body 2 and housed within a free internal space provided inside the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4. Such an arrangement of the electric drive module 16 outside the main body 2, and therefore outside the The manual grip handle 3 of device 1, thus allows in particular to reduce the size of the manual grip handle 3, in particular its diameter, which improves the ergonomics of device 1.

[0022] As in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the hair styling device 1 is advantageously devoid of an auxiliary arm pivotally connected to the main body 2, and movable between - an open position (first position), in which the auxiliary arm is sufficiently far from the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 to allow the placement of hair C between the auxiliary arm and said rotating part 15, and - a closed position (second position), in which the auxiliary arm is sufficiently close to the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 to force the hair C, placed between the auxiliary arm and said rotating part 15, into contact with the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair C carried by the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4.

[0023] In particular, the hair styling device 1 is advantageously devoid of such an auxiliary arm, which would also carry a mechanical hair engagement element (or "styling arm"). The absence of such an auxiliary arm facilitates the use of the hair styling device 1 by limiting the number of actions or manipulations required to perform a hairstyling operation. It also makes the use of the hair styling device 1 more comfortable and safer by preventing hair from becoming tangled around the auxiliary arm, which could be troublesome for the proper execution of the intended hairstyling operation or even painful for the user, or from pinching a finger or ear between the auxiliary arm and the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4. Furthermore, the absence of such an auxiliary arm allows for a simpler, more robust, and less expensive design and manufacture of the hair styling device 1.

[0024] The device 1, and in particular the control system of the electric drive module 16, includes a device for detecting the direction of forced rotation SRFi, SRF2 of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 under the effect of a mechanical force (for example, traction) exerted by the hair C against the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair. This detection device is therefore designed and configured to detect the direction in which the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 is forced to rotate (or at least tends to be forced to rotate), about its axis of rotation A, 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 displacement or movement of the styling head 4 relative to the hair C.In other words, the detection device is therefore designed and configured to detect a mechanical force. exerted against the rotating part 15 of the blower head 4, and which tends to force said rotating part 15 to rotate in a direction of forced rotation S rfi, SRF2 linked to a respective direction of application of said mechanical force. By "forced rotation," we advantageously mean a rotation of the rotating part 15 of the blower head 4, while the electric drive module 16 is at rest (electrical drive module 16 not electrically powered) and therefore does not positively drive said rotating part 15.

[0025] The control system of the electric drive module 16 also includes a control element which can be manually activated by a user of the device 1 to trigger a (effective) rotation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 in the direction of rotation SRb SR2 opposite to said direction of forced rotation SRFi, SRF2 detected by the detection device, i.e. in that of said first and second direction of rotation SRb SR2 which is opposite to said direction of forced rotation Srfi, detected.

[0026] In other words, the hair styling device 1, and in particular the control system of the electric drive module 16 thereof, includes or constitutes an automatic pre-selection device for a direction of rotation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4, among said first and second directions of rotation SR1, SR2, depending on the direction of forced rotation SRFi, SRF2 detected, which is designed and configured so that said rotating part 15 is set to rotate in a direction of rotation SRi, SR2 opposite to the direction of forced rotation SRFi, SRF2 detected when the user manually activates said control member.Thus, when a forced rotation effort of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 in a first direction of forced rotation Srfi (or "first forced direction SRF1") is detected, the automatic preselection device automatically preselected that of said first and second directions of rotation SRi, SR2 (and for example said first direction of rotation Sri), which is opposite to said first direction of forced rotation SRFi, and in which the rotating part 15 will rotate when the user manually activates said control member.Conversely, when a forced rotation effort of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 in a second direction of forced rotation SRF2 (or "second forced direction SRF2") opposite is detected, said automatic preselection device automatically preselected that of said first and second direction of rotation Sri, SR2 (and for example said second direction of rotation SR2), which is opposite said second direction of forced rotation SRF2, and in which the rotating part 15 will rotate when the user manually activates said control member.

[0027] Furthermore, the control system of the electric drive module 16 is designed and configured to trigger automatically, in the absence of manual activation said control organ by the user, a rotation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 in a direction of rotation Srai, Sra2 corresponding (i.e. identical) to said direction of forced rotation SRFi, SRF2 detected.

[0028] In other words, the control system is designed and configured to automatically trigger a rotation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 in a direction of rotation Srai, SRA2 (or "assisted rotation direction") which is identical to the (first or second) direction of forced rotation Srfi, detected (and therefore which is opposite to the direction of rotation automatically pre-selected by the automatic selection device), in the absence of manual activation by the user of the control element, i.e. when the detection device has detected a force of forced rotation but the user has not yet activated said control element.

[0029] Preferably, as will be seen below, the control system is designed and configured to automatically trigger the rotation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 in the direction of rotation Srai, SRA2 corresponding to the direction of forced rotation Srfi, Srf2 detected, in the absence of manual activation of the control element, but only when the detection device detects a forced orientation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 under the effect of a mechanical force exerted by the hair C against the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair. Thus, the device 1 is therefore preferably designed so that the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 remains stationary in the absence of detection of forced orientation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 by the detection device and in the absence of manual activation of the control element.This contributes to the safe use of the hair styling appliance.

[0030] Thus, the invention is based first of all on the general principle of detecting a direction of forced rotation Srfi, SRF2 of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 along said axis A of rotation under the effect of a mechanical force, resulting from the interaction between the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair C and said hair C, and tending to cause a forced rotation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 along said axis A of rotation, in order to automatically pre-select the direction in which the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 will be rotated by the electric drive module 16 to process the hair C when the user manually activates said control member.The invention also relies on a particular configuration of the control system of the electric drive module 16 such that the latter ensures by default the rotation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 in the direction of forced rotation SRFi, SRF2 detected, and therefore in the opposite direction to said automatically pre-selected direction of rotation.

[0031] Such a design makes the use of the hair styling device 1 according to the invention particularly simple and intuitive, especially for a user without special knowledge of hairstyling, insofar as this design allows an automatic adaptation of the direction of rotation SRi, SR2 of the rotating part 15 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 SRb S R2 of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 of the device 1.Detecting a direction of forced rotation of the rotating part 15 of the blow dryer head 4 carrying the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair C, and not detecting a possible movement of another part of the hair styling appliance 1 that would be distinct from said rotating part 15, allows a particularly simple and effective detection of an interaction of the appliance 1 with the hair C to pre-select the direction of rotation in which the rotating part 15 should be rotated, even when the interaction of the appliance 1 with the hair C results from a more complex movement than a simple displacement of the appliance 1 along the hair.

[0032] The particular design of the device 1 according to the invention further makes its use particularly pleasant and safe. Indeed, rotating the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 in the pre-selected direction of rotation SRi, SR2 advantageously tends to generate a wrapping of the hair around said rotating part 15, to aid in shaping the hair C, while the automatic triggering of a rotation of said rotating part 15 in a Skaï direction of rotation opposite to said direction of forced rotation SRFi, SRF2 detected, and therefore opposite to the automatically pre-selected direction of rotation, advantageously tends to avoid wrapping the hair around said rotating part 15.Without positive manual action by the user against said control element, the exertion of a force against the rotating part 15 by interaction between the hairs C and the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hairs C can only trigger a rotation of the rotating part 15 in a direction of rotation which tends to cancel this force exerted and therefore to cancel the corresponding forced rotation torque.

[0033] Thus, when the electric drive module 16 is stopped, and when the user, for example, brings the mechanical 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 face / head (or of the third person), and from top to bottom (i.e. from the roots of the hair to their tips, as illustrated by a thin arrow in [Fig.20](a)), the interaction between the hair C and the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair tends to force the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 into rotation in the corresponding first direction of forced rotation SRFi (figures 9(a) and 10(a), figures 13(a) and 14(a), and [Fig.20](a)). This forced rotation is detected by said detection device, which leads to the automatic preselection, by the control system of the electric drive module 16, of the first direction of rotation SR[ of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4, i.e. the automatic preselection of a first predefined electrical operating mode corresponding to a rotation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 according to its first direction of rotation SRi, opposite to said first direction of forced rotation Srfi.Thus, when the user then manually operates the control element, the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 is then set to rotate in the first direction of rotation Sri thus preselected ([Fig.20](c)) and can cause a corresponding wrapping of the hair C around the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4. On the other hand, if the control element is not manually activated by the user, the control system sets the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 to rotate in a first direction of rotation S rai (“first assisted direction of rotation Sraj”) which corresponds to the first direction of forced rotation SRFidetected ([Fig.20](b)), so that a wrapping of the hair C around the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 can be advantageously avoided.

[0034] Conversely, when the electric drive module 16 is stopped, and when the user, for example, brings the styling head 4 of the device 1 into contact with their own 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. 21](a)), the interaction between the hair C and the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair tends to force the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 into rotation in the corresponding second direction of forced rotation, opposite to the first direction of forced rotation Srfi (Figures 9(c) and 10(c), figures 13(c) and 14(c), and [Fig.21](c)).This forced rotation is detected by said detection device, which leads to the automatic preselection, by the control system of the electric drive module 16, of the second direction of rotation SR2 of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4, i.e. the automatic preselection of a second predefined electrical operating mode corresponding to a rotation of the . The rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 rotates in its second direction of rotation SR2, opposite to the second forced direction of rotation SRF2. Thus, when the user manually operates the control, the rotating part 15 is set to rotate in the second direction of rotation SR2 thus preselected ([Fig.21](c)) and may cause the hair C to wrap around the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4. Conversely, if the control is not manually activated by the user, the control system rotates the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 in a second direction of rotation Srai (“second assisted direction of rotation”) which corresponds to the second detected forced direction of rotation SRF2 ([Fig.21](b)), so that wrapping of the hair C around the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 can be advantageously avoided.

[0035] Depending on styling habits and / or the desired hairstyle effect, it is also possible, for example, to position the styling head 4 of the device 1 not between the hair C and the scalp, as described above (Figures 20 and 21), but on the outside of the hair C, as illustrated in Figures 22 and 23. 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 22(a) and 23(a)), the interaction between the hair C and the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair C tends to force the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 into rotation. - either in the first direction of forced rotation Srfi (figures 9(a) and 10(a), figures 13(a) and 14(a), and [Fig.22](a)), in which case this forced rotation is detected by the detection device, which leads to the automatic preselection of the first direction of rotation SR[ of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 ([Fig.22](c)), - either in the second direction of forced rotation Srf2 (figures 9(c) and 10(c), figures 13(c) and 14(c), and [Fig.23](a)), in which case this forced rotation is detected by the detection device, which leads to the automatic preselection of the second direction of rotation SR2 of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 ([Fig.23] (c)).

[0036] The following table summarizes the different possible operating modes of the device 1 described above, depending on the positioning of its styling head 4 relative to the hair C (Figures 20 to 23). The full advantage of the invention is then clear: it automatically selects the appropriate direction of rotation SRi, SR2 based on the position of the styling head 4 of the device 1, without the user having to determine which direction of rotation to select. This makes it possible to offer a particularly intuitive and easy-to-use hair styling device 1, well-suited for novices (those without specific knowledge in the field of hairdressing), and minimizing risks. hair tangling.

[0037] [Tables 1] Right side of the face Left side of the face Styling head of the hair styling appliance positioned between the hair and scalp First direction of forced rotation His First direction of assisted rotation First direction of rotation Sm Second direction of forced rotation Sw / Second direction of assisted rotation Ssaz Second direction of rotation Sa? Styling head of the hair styling appliance positioned on the outside of the hair Second direction of forced rotation Sera Second direction of assisted rotation Sw / Second direction of rotation Sm First direction of forced rotation San First direction of assisted rotation Sm / First direction of rotation Sri

[0038] Thus, the automatic selection of the direction of rotation of the rotating part 15 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 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 need to consider the direction of rotation of the rotating part 15 based on the positioning of the styling head 4 relative to their hair C, since the device 1 automatically and transparently selects the appropriate direction of rotation SRb SR2 of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4. This effectively prevents the risk of knots or tangling of the hair, while ensuring the best possible styling results. Moreover, the risk of unintentional wrapping or tangling of the hair C is further reduced because, without any manual action by the user against the first control element, the interaction between the hair C and the element exerts force against the rotating part 15. The mechanical engagement of the hair 7 can only advantageously trigger a rotation of the rotating part 15 in a direction that tends to cancel the applied force and thus cancel the corresponding forced rotation torque. Advantageously, the control system of the electric drive module 16 can thus play an automatic "assistance" role, accompanying the movement of the device 1 to help detangle the hair C engaged with the mechanical engagement element 7.

[0039] In order to ensure such detection of the direction of forced rotation SRFi, SRF2 of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4, said detection device preferably comprises: - the rotating part 15 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 16 is at rest (i.e., when the electric drive module 16 is not electrically powered), the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 remains capable of pivoting within said predetermined angular range, in the first direction of forced rotation SRN 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 SRFB SRF2), and - at least one sensor 19A, 19B to detect the attainment of each of the said first and second angular positions by the said rotating part 15.

[0040] Thus, when the electric drive module 16 is stopped and therefore not rotating the rotating part 15, 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 15 about its axis A of rotation within the 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 the said first and second angular positions, or preferably two sensors 19A, 19B to detect each respectively the attainment of one and the other of the said first and second angular positions.

[0041] In turn, the control system of the electric drive module 16 is designed and configured to rotate the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 - in the first direction of rotation Sri (opposite therefore to the first direction of forced rotation SRFi) when the first angular position is reached, and vice versa - in the second direction of rotation SR2 (opposite therefore to the second direction of forced rotation SRF2) when the second angular position is reached, and the said control element is manually activated by the user.

[0042] In other words, the automatic rotation direction selection device, which advantageously comprises or constitutes the control system of the electric drive module 16, advantageously comprises an electrical or electronic control circuit (hereinafter "control circuit") which is connected to the electric drive module 16, to rotate the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4, when said first manual control element is activated: - in the first direction of rotation SR[ when the first angular position is reached, i.e. when the (or one of the) sensor(s) 19A, 19B detects that the rotating part 15 occupies said first angular position, and, respectively, - in the second direction of rotation SR2 when the second angular position is reached, i.e. when the (or one of the) sensor(s) 19A, 19B detects that the rotating part 15 occupies said second angular position.

[0043] The control system / control circuit of the electric drive module 16 can be connected to or include sensor(s) 19A, 19B.

[0044] 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 15 of the styling head 4 from the first angular position to the second angular position, and conversely from the second angular position to the first angular position, corresponds to a pivoting of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 by an angle preferably 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 15.Such an amplitude allows for particularly easy and comfortable detection, based on a slight forced rotation of the rotating part 15 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.

[0045] Advantageously, said at least one sensor 19A, 19B, or each of said sensors Sensors 19A and 19B (in the case of multiple sensors) are arranged inside the styling head 4 of the device 1. This helps to reduce the size of the main body 2, and in particular the portion of the latter that forms the handle 3, thus making it easier for the user to grip the device 1. Furthermore, this simplifies and improves the reliability of the electrical design of the device 1 when the electric drive module 16 is also arranged inside the styling head 4, especially when the device 1 includes a hinge system 14 for the styling head 4 relative to the main body 2.

[0046] Preferably, as illustrated in the figures, the detection device comprises: - two sensors 19A, 19B, as previously envisaged, namely a first sensor 19A and a second sensor 19B to detect each respectively the attainment of one and the other of said first and second angular positions of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4, and - a first activation / deactivation device 20A, 20A', 20A” to trigger a change of state of the first sensor 19A when the first angular position is reached, and - a second activation / deactivation organ 20B, 20B', 20B” to cause a change of state of the second sensor 19B when the second angular position is reached.

[0047] By "activation / deactivation element", we advantageously mean here an element which causes a change of state of the corresponding sensor by activation (for example by closing an electrical contact or an optical path), or on the contrary by deactivation (for example by opening an electrical contact or cutting an optical path), of said sensor or of a characteristic of the latter.

[0048] For example, as in the design variants illustrated by way of example in the figures, the first activation / deactivation member 20A, 20A', 20A” can be provided to cooperate with the first sensor 19A when the first angular position is reached (Figures 9(a) and 13(a) for example) to cause a change of state of said first sensor 19A, while the second activation / deactivation member 20B, 20B', 20B” cooperates respectively with the second sensor 19B when the second angular position is reached ([Fig.9](c) and 13(c)) to cause a change of state of said second sensor 19B.However, an alternative configuration could be considered, in which the first activation / deactivation element ceases to cooperate with the first sensor when the first angular position is reached, and the second activation / deactivation element ceases to cooperate with the second sensor when the second angular position is reached. The first and second activation / deactivation elements 20A, 20A', 20A”; 20B, 20B', 20B” can be formed. by parts or elements distinct from one another, or on the contrary be formed by a single part or element.

[0049] According to one variant, an example of which is illustrated in figures 1 to 10, said first and second sensors 19A, 19B are optical sensors 21A, 21B, preferably optical fork sensors (“optosensors” or “optoswitches”), that is to say optical sensors with two arms (U-shaped sensors) of which one fork arm carries an optical emitter and another fork arm carries an optical receiver.According to this variant, the first and second activation / deactivation members 20A, 20B advantageously form one or more obscuring elements designed and arranged to be positioned respectively between the arms of the optical fork sensors 21A, 21B to selectively interrupt a detection light beam emitted by the optical emitter towards the optical receiver according to the first or second angular position occupied by the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4, and thus cause a respective change of state of the first and second optical fork sensors 21A, 21B. For example, as illustrated in Figures 7 to 10, the first and second activation / deactivation members 20A, 20B can thus form a single, monolithic obscuring element, which is designed and arranged. - to position itself between the arms of the first optical fork sensor 21A and interrupt the detection light beam emitted by the optical emitter towards the optical receiver of the first optical fork sensor 21A when the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 occupies said first angular position ([Fig.9] (a)), and - to position itself between the arms of the second optical fork sensor 21B and cut the detection light beam respectively emitted by the optical emitter towards the optical receiver of the second optical fork sensor 21B when the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 occupies said second angular position ( [Fig.9](c)).

[0050] Alternatively, although less preferably, each of said optical sensors could comprise an optical emitter and an optical receiver, and said first and second activation / deactivation members could form one or more reflective elements designed and arranged to selectively reflect a detection light beam emitted by the optical emitter towards the optical receiver according to the first or second angular position occupied by the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4, and thus cause a respective change of state of said first and second optical sensors. The implementation of first and second sensors 19A, 19B of the type optical sensors 21A, 21B, and in particular of the type optical fork sensors, allows for contactless detection (and therefore without friction and with less mechanical play constraints) of reaching said first and second angular positions. This advantageously allows for particularly precise and reliable detection of reaching said first and second angular positions, while giving the detection device excellent mechanical robustness.

[0051] According to another variant, examples of which are illustrated in figures 11 to 14 on the one hand and 15 to 18 on the other hand, said first and second sensors 19A, 19B are switches 22A, 22B. The first activation / deactivation member 20A', 20A” then advantageously forms a first actuation member which cooperates with a first of said switches 22A, 22B when the first angular position is reached (Figures 13(a) for example), thus causing a change in the switching state of said first switch 22A. Symmetrically, the second activation / deactivation member 20B', 20B” advantageously forms a second actuation member which cooperates with a second of said switches 22A, 22B when the second angular position is reached ([Fig. 13](c) for example), thus causing respectively a change in the switching state of said second switch 22B.Advantageously, the first on / off member 20A', 20A” does not cooperate with the first switch 22A when the second angular position is reached ([Fig.l3](c) for example), and the second on / off member 20B', 20B” does not cooperate with the second switch 22B when the first angular position is reached ([Fig.l3](a) for example).

[0052] The term "switch" (or "electrical switch") advantageously refers to a device intended to interrupt, restore, reverse the direction of the electric current, or distribute said electric current at will in different circuits. Preferably, as illustrated in Figures 11 to 14 and 15 to 18, the first and second switches 22A, 22B 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 22A, 22B 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, the said first and second electromechanical switches 22A, 22B each comprise a housing, at least two contact terminals, and a spring-loaded movable internal mechanical contact between a contact position. closed 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 displacement of the internal mechanical contact between said closed contact position and said open contact position and vice versa, when an external mechanical force is applied to said movable button against the spring return force. More advantageously, as in the examples of Figures 11 to 14 and 15 to 18, said first and second switches 22A, 22B 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 said movable 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 return, the first and second actuation members (i.e.first and second activation / deactivation members 20A', 20B'; 20A”, 20B”) can for example each be formed of a protrusion (or “positive relief”) intended to cooperate mechanically respectively with one of the electromechanical switches 22A, 22B, by interaction with the movable button 23A, 23B of the latter, to cause a change of switching state of the electromechanical switches 22A, 22B according to the angular position which is reached, as in the example illustrated in the figures.

[0053] Alternatively, the first and second switches may be electromagnetic first and second switches (or "Reed Switches (RS)"), and the first and second switching elements may, for example, each be formed by a permanent magnet. The use of such electromechanical or electromagnetic switches advantageously contributes to greater simplicity and low design and manufacturing cost of the device 1.Since the first and second sensors 19A, 19B are advantageously components providing an electrical connection function, it is therefore possible to transmit electrical power directly to the electric geared motor 17 of the electric drive module 16 via the first and second sensors 19A, 19B, without having to use an additional component, such as a relay or an H-bridge, between the first and second sensors 19A, 19B and the electric geared motor 17. The first and second sensors 19A, 19B can thus be advantageously included in the control system (or even in its electrical or electronic control circuit, if applicable), mentioned previously. The use of monostable electromechanical "reversing" switches 22A, 22B, as envisaged above, is also possible. above, it allows for further simplification of both the mechanical and electrical design of device 1, and for a reduction in manufacturing costs.

[0054] Preferably, regardless of the type of sensors 19A, 19B chosen, the first and second activation / deactivation members 20A, 20B; 20A', 20B'; 20A”, 20B” are arranged inside the styling head 4 of the device 1, particularly in the preferred case where said first and second sensors 19A, 19B are themselves arranged inside the styling head 4, as in the examples illustrated in the figures. This advantageously simplifies the mechanical design of the device 1.

[0055] According to a preferred embodiment implemented in the examples illustrated in the figures, the electric drive module 16 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 15 of the styling head 4. Typically constituting a housing for the electric geared motor 17 of the electric drive module 16, the motor housing 24 is thus advantageously fixedly connected to a stator of the electric geared motor 17. The electric drive module 16 also comprises an output shaft 18 to which, as already mentioned above, said rotating part 15 is connected such that a rotation of the output shaft 18 causes a corresponding rotation of said rotating part 15.In this variant, the output shaft 18 is advantageously mounted to rotate about the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4. Furthermore, the electric drive module 16 is designed and configured such that the output shaft 18 is substantially prevented from rotating relative to the motor housing 24 when the electric drive module 16 is at rest (i.e., not electrically powered), so that a pivoting of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 within the predetermined angular range (under the effect of forced rotation) results in a corresponding pivoting of the motor housing 24 about the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 15 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 18 when the electric drive module 16 is at the stop.For example, the output shaft 18 can be the output shaft of the gearbox of the electric geared motor 17, and its rotation can then advantageously be prevented by frictional forces generated by gears of the gearbox of the electric geared motor 17 that oppose free rotation of the output shaft 18 when the electric drive module 16 is stationary. In this respect, the electric drive module 16 can typically include a housing 25, 25', 25", for example cylindrical, which is fixed fixed relative to the body. main 2 of the device 1, and within which said motor housing 24 is arranged to pivot. For example, the housing 25, 25', 25" may have a base 26, 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 housing 25, 25', 25" may be provided within it with at least one pair of opposing stops 27A, 27B; 27A', 27B'; 27A", 27B" which mechanically delimit the permissible pivoting range (predetermined angular range) of the motor housing 24 about said axis A of rotation, as illustrated in particular in Figures 10, 14 and 16.

[0056] In the case where said first and second sensors 19A, 19B are optical sensors 21A, 21B, preferably optical fork sensors, as mentioned previously, it is advantageous to provide that said first and second optical sensors 21A, 21B are arranged fixed relative to the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4, and that said first and second activation / deactivation members 20A, 20B are fixed fixed against rotation relative to said motor housing 24. This advantageously contributes to simplifying the mechanical and electrical / electronic design of the device 1.

[0057] In this respect, the electric drive module 16 may advantageously include a support 28 for optical sensors, to which the first and second optical sensors 21A, 21B are attached, and which is fixed to the housing 25. Conversely, said first and second activation / deactivation members 20A, 20B are advantageously fixed to the motor housing 24 without the possibility of relative rotation, for example by means of a motor cradle 29 in which the motor housing 24 is received without the possibility of relative rotation. Being mounted movably and pivotally about said axis A of rotation inside the housing 25, the motor cradle 29 then advantageously forms an oscillating cradle fixed to the motor housing 24 and the optical sensor support 28, pivotable within said predetermined angular range.Advantageously, the motor cradle 29 and / or the optical sensor support 28 includes at least one pair of stops 30A, 30B, which are arranged and configured to cooperate respectively with a corresponding stop of the pair of stops 27A, 27B provided in the housing 25 to mechanically delimit the amplitude of said predetermined angular range.

[0058] Alternatively, in the case where said first and second sensors 19A, 19B are switches 22A, 22B, as previously envisaged, it is then advantageous to provide that said first and second switches 22A, 22B are preferably fixed fixed to rotation relative to said motor housing 24, while the first and second activation / deactivation members 20A', 20B'; 20A”, 20B” are preferably arranged fixed relative to the axis A of rotation of said rotating part 15 of the styling head 4. Unlike the first and second switches 22A, 22B, the first and second components Activation / deactivation switches 20A', 20B'; 20A”, 20B” are therefore not mounted for rotation about the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 15 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 22A, 22B are themselves advantageously arranged inside the styling head 4. As such, the electrical drive module 17 can advantageously include a switch support 28', 28” to which the first and second switches 22A, 22B are attached, which is fixed to the motor housing 24 without the possibility of relative rotation, for example by means of a motor cradle 29', 29” in which the motor housing 24 is received without the possibility of relative rotation.Being mounted movable and pivotable about said axis A of rotation inside the housing 25', 25”, the motor cradle 29', 29” then advantageously forms an oscillating cradle integral with the motor housing 24 and the pivoting switch support 28', 28” 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 30A, 30B, 30A', 30B', which are arranged and configured to cooperate respectively with a corresponding stop of the pair of stops 27A', 27B', 27A”, 27B” with which the housing 25', 25” is provided to mechanically delimit the amplitude of said predetermined angular range.

[0059] According to a design sub-variant illustrated by example in Figures 11 to 14, the first and second switches 22A, 22B are monostable electromechanical switches as envisaged above, advantageously identical, and said first and second switches 22A, 22B and said first and second activation / deactivation members 20A', 20B' are arranged to permit actuation of each of the first and second switches 22A, 22B in an actuation direction that is orthogonal to the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 (the "radial" arrangement).According to this sub-variant, the first and second switches 22A, 22B and the first and second activation / deactivation members 20A', 20B' are advantageously arranged so that the actuation of the first and second switches 22A, 22B, by the first and second activation / deactivation members 20A', 20B' respectively, is achieved by a mechanical force which results from the interaction between the first and second activation / deactivation members 20A', 20B' and the buttons 23A, 23B of the first and second switches 22A, 22B, and which is exerted in a direction inscribed in a plane orthogonal to the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4. Such an arrangement offers in particular the advantage of a limited axial footprint. Advantageously, the first and second switches 22A, 22B can be arranged one above the other along the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 15, and for example. according to a "head-to-tail" mounting, with their respective buttons 23A, 23B oriented opposite to said axis A of rotation. The first and second activation / deactivation members 20A', 20B' 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 protruding from an internal surface of the case 25', opposite the first and second switches 22A, 22B.

[0060] According to another design sub-variant illustrated by example in Figures 15 to 18, the first and second switches 22A, 22B are monostable electromechanical switches as envisaged above, advantageously identical, and said first and second switches 22A, 22B and said first and second activation / deactivation members 20A”, 20B” are arranged to permit actuation of each of the first and second switches 22A, 22B in an actuation direction which is parallel to the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 (the “axial” arrangement).According to this sub-variant, the first and second switches 22A, 22B and the first and second activation / deactivation members 20A”, 20B” are thus advantageously arranged so that the actuation of the first and second switches 22A, 22B, respectively by the first and second activation / deactivation members 20A”, 20B”, is achieved by a mechanical force which results from the interaction between the first and second activation / deactivation members 20A”, 20B” and the buttons 23A, 23B of the first and second switches 22A, 22B, and which is exerted in a direction inscribed in a plane parallel to the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4. .

[0061] Advantageously, as illustrated in particular in Figures 15, 17 and 18, the first and second switches 22A, 22B can be arranged at the same height along the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 15, 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 22A, 22B during the pivoting of the rotating part 15 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 22A, 22B.

[0062] It proves particularly advantageous to also provide, in this sub-variant: - that the first and second switches 22A, 22B are arranged to move in a straight line along the axis A of rotation of the rotating part 15 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 22A, 22B towards a surface carrying said first and second activation / deactivation elements 20A”, 20B”.

[0063] This particularly advantageous configuration allows for the automatic compensation of any dimensional manufacturing tolerances in the parts of the device 1. In particular, this configuration allows for the automatic compensation of any axial play that the movable button 23A, 23B of the first and second switches 22A, 22B may exhibit due to more or less significant manufacturing dimensional tolerances. This ensures particularly reliable and repeatable operation of the first and second switches 22A, 22B, even when using conventional switches readily available on the market. Furthermore, when the electric drive module 16 and the first and second switches 22A, 22B 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 22A, 22B and the electric geared motor 17.

[0064] In this respect, as illustrated in figures 15 to 18, the switch support 28”, to which the first and second switches 22A, 22B are attached, is preferably 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 15 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 switch support 28” to pivot in said predetermined angular range.The buttons 23A, 23B of the first and second switches 22A, 22B can advantageously be oriented towards and opposite a base of the case 25” which defines said surface carrying said first and second activation / deactivation members 20A”, 20B”. These latter can advantageously form two protrusions, such as domes of material, distinct and spaced apart from each other, which are arranged projecting from said surface. The elastic member 31, such as, for example, a compression spring, can be arranged to bear against an internal surface of a cover 32” of the case 25” and a corresponding bearing surface defined by the motor cradle 29”, to elastically repel the motor cradle 29” towards the base of the case 25” and thus exert an automatic axial closing force on the first and second switches 22A, 22B. direction of said protuberances arranged on the surface of the bottom of the case 25”.

[0065] Preferably, the device 1 includes an automatic return element 33, 33', 33" for automatically returning the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 to a third angular position intermediate to said first and second angular positions when said mechanical force exerted by the hair ceases (Figures 9(b), 10(b), 13(b) and 14(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 15 of the styling head 4 advantageously returns automatically from the first angular position or from the second angular position to said intermediate third angular position, referred to as the rest position.The effort and amplitude of forced rotation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4, which are required to detect said forced rotation upon reaching one of the first and second angular positions, are 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 said predetermined angular range. The pivoting amplitude of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 between the first and third angular positions is then identical to the pivoting amplitude of said rotating part 15 between the second and third angular positions.

[0066] Preferably, the self-returning member 33, 33', 33" is an elastic self-returning member. For example, the self-returning member 33, 33' may be a leaf spring, as in the particular designs illustrated in Figures 7 to 10 and Figures 11 to 14, which is typically fixed at its center to a part integral with the motor cradle 29, 29', and whose two opposing free ends bear against corresponding surfaces provided inside the housing 25, 25' of the electric drive module 16. Alternatively, as in the particular design illustrated in Figures 15 to 18, 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 leg of the U being arranged to bear against one or several ribs with which the engine cradle is equipped 29”.Of course, other suitable conformations, configurations, and arrangements of the automatic return element 33, 33', 33" can be considered. By appropriately selecting and dimensioning the elastic automatic return element 33, 33', 33" (length, stiffness constant, etc.), it is advantageously possible to precisely adjust, during the design of the device 1, the force required by the user to rotate the part. The rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 is moved from the third angular position to either of the first or second angular positions. In this way, 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 15 of the styling head 4.In practice, the definition of this minimum force value through the choice and dimensioning of the elastic automatic return element 33, 33', 33" may depend on the general dimensioning of the device 1 and its styling head 4, as well as on the consideration of any friction forces that may oppose the pivoting of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 within the predetermined angular range.

[0067] Advantageously, the control system of the electric drive module 16 is designed and configured to inhibit, that is to say to prohibit, the operation of the electric drive module 16 in the absence of detection, by said at least one sensor 19A, 19B (and therefore advantageously by said first and second optical sensors 21A, 21B, or by said first and second switches 22A, 22B), of the attainment of one or the other of said first and second angular positions. Thus, in the absence of mechanical force exerted by the hair against the mechanical engagement element 7 of the hair and detected by the detection device, said control system / pilot circuit interrupts the power supply to the electric drive module 16 so that the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 cannot therefore be set in rotation by the electric drive module 16 in either of said directions of rotation.This contributes to safer, more efficient and more economical use of the device 1.

[0068] In a particularly preferential manner, when the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 occupies the third intermediate angular position mentioned above (under the effect of the return of the automatic return member 33, 33', 33"), the control system of the electric drive module 16 therefore advantageously prevents the effective rotation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 by the electric drive module 16. This makes it possible to further improve the operation of the device 1, in particular by avoiding a possible oscillation effect of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 between the said first and second angular positions.

[0069] Advantageously, as in the example illustrated in the figures, said control member manually activatable by the user (to trigger the effective rotation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 in the direction of rotation Sri, SR2 opposite to the direction of forced rotation SRFi, SRF2 detected) includes a manual actuation button 34, preferably arranged at the handle 3 of the device 1, and a first electrical switch 35 (or "normal rotation switch") connected to said manual actuation button 34. For example, the manual actuation button 34 is a monostable button (push-button), one or more spring(s) 36 (or equivalent) automatically returning the manual actuation button 34 from an "activated" position under the effect of a manual force exerted by the user against it to a "deactivated" position, when said manual force ceases.Device 1, however, lacks a manual actuation button intended to control the rotation of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4 in a direction of rotation Srai, S RA2 corresponding to the direction of forced rotation SRFi, SRF2 detected by the detection device, since such rotation is carried out automatically by said control system.

[0070] For example, as illustrated in the figures, the control system may include, in this respect, a second electrical switch 37 also connected to said manual actuation button 34, in an arrangement reversed to that of said first electrical switch 35, such that - when the manual actuation button 34 is activated manually by the user, for example by being pressed by a finger of the user, the first electrical switch 35 is activated while the second electrical switch 37 is simultaneously deactivated, and vice versa - when the manual actuation button 34 is not manually activated by the user, for example when the user ceases to exert manual effort against it, the first electrical switch 35 is deactivated while the second electrical switch 37 is simultaneously activated.

[0071] For example, as illustrated in the figures, said first and second electrical switches 35, 37 are monostable electromechanical switches, i.e. momentary mechanical contact switches, such as microswitches (miniature push-button switches, or "microswitches" in English).

[0072] To further clarify the implementation of some of the functional characteristics described above, [Fig. 19] illustrates an example of an electrical design diagram of the device 1 shown in the figures, according to the variant described previously in which the first and second sensors 19A, 19B are optical sensors 21A, 21B, and preferably optical fork sensors. This electrical design has the particular advantage of being especially simple, robust, and inexpensive to implement. The device 1 is here intended to be powered by mains electricity (power supply from the distribution network). (electrical, under an alternating voltage of 220-240 Vac, 50-60 Hz). However, the electric geared motor 17, as well as the electric motor 10 of the blower module 8, are advantageously DC electric motors. Accordingly, diode bridges 38, 39 are provided to ensure full-wave rectification to power each of the DC electric motors 10, 17. These diode bridges 38, 39 could be omitted if the device 1 were intended to be powered by a DC source. The heating element of the device 1 comprises a plurality of electrical resistors 13A-13E. The electric motor 10 of the blower module 8 and the electric geared motor 17 are respectively electrically powered, via their respective diode bridge 38, 39, by bypassing the power supply circuit of the electrical resistors 13A-13E.

[0073] In this example, the general switch 6 of the device is a three-position selector, which is connected to the electrical resistors 13A-13E and the diode bridges 38, 39 which supply the electric motor 10 of the blower module 8 and the electric geared motor 17 of the electric drive module 16 of the rotating part 15 of the styling head 4. The first and second electrical switches 35, 37 of the control system of the electric drive module 16 are here monostable electromechanical "reversing" switches, advantageously conforming to the general description of such switches which has been made previously.

[0074] Still in the diagram of [Fig. 19], the first and second optical sensors 21A, 21B are electrically connected to an "H" transistor bridge (or "H" bridge, here in the form of an integrated circuit 40) to control the latter, said "H" bridge being further electrically connected on the one hand to the power supply diode bridge 39 of the electric geared motor 17 of the electric drive module 16, and on the other hand to the first and second electrical switches 35, 37, which are themselves electrically connected to the electric geared motor 17.

[0075] In the case where said first and second sensors 19A, 19B are switches 22A, 22B, and in particular monostable electromechanical "inverting" switches, as envisaged above, an electrical design scheme similar to that of [Fig. 19] may be put in addition, except that the optical sensors 21 will therefore be replaced by said switches 22A, 22B, and the "H" bridge 40 will be omitted.

[0076] Obviously, other suitable mechanical, 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) 19A, 19B (number, type, etc.), the choice of the electric geared motor 17 (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 (15) which is provided with a mechanical hair engagement element (7) for contacting the hair (C) to assist in styling said hair (C), an electric drive module (16) for driving said rotating part (15) in rotation about an axis (A) of rotation relative to the main body (2) alternately in a first direction of rotation (SR1) and in an opposite second direction of rotation (SR2), and a control system for the operation of the electric drive module (16), the device (1) being characterized in that said control system comprises: - a device for detecting the direction of forced rotation (SRFi, Srf2) of the rotating part (15) of the styling head (4) under the effect of a mechanical force exerted by the hair (C) against said mechanical engagement element (7) of the hair, - a control device manually activated by a user to trigger a rotation of the rotating part (15) of the styling head (4) in the direction of rotation (SRi, SR2) opposite to the direction of forced rotation (S rfb Sri 2) detected, said control system being designed and configured to automatically trigger, in the absence of manual activation of said control organ, a rotation of the rotating part (15) of the styling head (4) in a direction of rotation (Skaï, SRA2) corresponding to said direction of forced rotation (Sm, S^) detected.

2. Apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that: - said detection device includes • said rotating part (15) 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 so that, when the electric drive module (16) is stopped, the the rotating part (15) 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 an opposite second angular position, under the effect of said mechanical force exerted by the hair against the mechanical engagement element (7) of the hair, and • at least one sensor (19A, 19B) to detect the attainment of each of said first and second angular positions, - said control system of the electric drive module (16) being designed and configured to rotate said rotating part (15) in the first direction of rotation (Sri) when attainment of the first angular position is detected and in the second direction of rotation (SR2) when attainment of the second angular position is detected,and that said control device is manually activated by a user.

3. 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°.

4. Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 2 and 3, characterized in that it comprises an automatic return member (33, 33', 33"), preferably elastic, for automatically returning the rotating part (15) of the styling head (4) to a third angular position which is intermediate, and preferably median, to said first and second angular positions when said mechanical force exerted by the hair (C) ceases.

5. Device (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the control system of the electric drive module (16) is designed and configured to inhibit the operation of the electric drive module (16) in the absence of detection by said at least one sensor (19A, 19B) of the attainment of either of said first and second angular positions.

6. Device (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that said at least one sensor (19A, 19B) is arranged inside the styling head (4).

7. Device (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, said detection device comprises - a first sensor (19A) and a second sensor (19B) for each respectively detecting the attainment of one and the other of said first and second angular positions, and - a first activation / deactivation member (20A, 20A', 20A”) for causing a change of state of the first sensor (19A) when the first angular position is attained, and a second activation / deactivation member (20B, 20B', 20B”) for causing a change of state of the second sensor (19B) when the second angular position is attained.

8. Apparatus according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said first and second sensors (19A, 19B) are optical sensors (21A, 21B), preferably optical fork sensors.

9. Apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that said first and second sensors (19A, 19B) are switches (22A, 22B), preferably electromechanical switches.

10. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electric drive module (16) is arranged inside the styling head (4).

11. Device according to claims 8 and 10, characterized in that - the electric drive module (16) 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 (15) of the styling head (4), said electric drive module (16) comprising an output shaft (18) which is movable and rotatable about the axis (A) of rotation of said rotating part (15), said rotating part (15) being connected to the output shaft (18) such that a rotation of the output shaft (18) causes a corresponding rotation of said rotating part (15), the output shaft (15) being fixed against rotation relative to the housing motor (24) when the electric drive module (6) is stopped, - said first and second optical sensors (21A, 21B) being arranged immobile relative to the axis (A) of rotation of said rotating part (15), said first and second activation / deactivation members (20A, 20B) being fixed immobile in rotation relative to said motor housing (24).

12. Device according to claims 9 and 10, characterized in that: - the electric drive module (16) 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 (15) of the styling head (4), said electric drive module (16) comprising an output shaft (18) which is movable and rotatable about the axis (A) of rotation of said rotating part (15), said rotating part (15) being connected to the output shaft (18) such that a rotation of the output shaft (18) causes a corresponding rotation of said rotating part (15), the output shaft (18) being fixed and rotationally immobilized relative to the motor housing (24) when the electric drive module (16) is stopped, - said first and second switches (22A, 22B) being fixed and rotationally immobilized by engine housing audit report (24)said first and second activation / deactivation members (20A', 20B'; 20A”, 20B”) being arranged immobile with respect to the axis (A) of rotation of said rotating part (15).

13. Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 9 and 12, characterized in that the first and second switches (22A, 22B) are monostable electromechanical switches, and preferably reversing monostable electromechanical switches.

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